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Liu T, Cao Y, Weng J, Gao S, Jin Z, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Zhang H, Xia C, Yin X, Luo Y, He Q, Jiang H, Wang L, Zhang Z. Hepatitis E virus infects human testicular tissue and Sertoli cells. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2332657. [PMID: 38517709 PMCID: PMC11057402 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2332657] [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: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Globally, hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections are prevalent. The finding of high viral loads and persistent viral shedding in ejaculate suggests that HEV replicates within the human male genital tract, but its target organ is unknown and appropriate models are lacking. We aimed to determine the HEV tropism in the human testis and its potential influence on male reproductive health. We conducted an ex vivo culture of human testis explants and in vitro culture of primary human Sertoli cells. Clinically derived HEV genotype 1 (HEV1) and HEV3 virions, as well as rat-derived HEV-C1, were used for inoculation. Transcriptomic analysis was performed on testis tissues collected from tacrolimus-treated rabbits with chronic HEV3 infection. Our findings reveal that HEV3, but not HEV1 or HEV-C1, can replicate in human testis explants and primary human Sertoli cells. Tacrolimus treatment significantly enhanced the replication efficiency of HEV3 in testis explants and enabled successful HEV1 infection in Sertoli cells. HEV3 infection disrupted the secretion of several soluble factors and altered the cytokine microenvironment within primary human Sertoli cells. Finally, intratesticular transcriptomic analysis of immunocompromised rabbits with chronic HEV infection indicated downregulation of genes associated with spermatogenesis. HEV can infect the human testicular tissues and Sertoli cells, with increased replication efficiency when exposed to tacrolimus treatment. These findings shed light on how HEV may persist in the ejaculate of patients with chronic hepatitis E and provide valuable ex vivo tools for studying countermeasures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxu Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yalei Cao
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaming Weng
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Songzhan Gao
- Department of Andrology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zirun Jin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuzhuo Yang
- Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - He Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Changyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Yin
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong Luo
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiyu He
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Orosz L, Sárvári KP, Dernovics Á, Rosztóczy A, Megyeri K. Pathogenesis and clinical features of severe hepatitis E virus infection. World J Virol 2024; 13:91580. [DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v13.i2.91580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis E virus (HEV), a member of the Hepeviridae family, is a small, non-enveloped icosahedral virus divided into eight distinct genotypes (HEV-1 to HEV-8). Only genotypes 1 to 4 are known to cause diseases in humans. Genotypes 1 and 2 commonly spread via fecal-oral transmission, often through the consumption of contaminated water. Genotypes 3 and 4 are known to infect pigs, deer, and wild boars, often transferring to humans through inadequately cooked meat. Acute hepatitis caused by HEV in healthy individuals is mostly asymptomatic or associated with minor symptoms, such as jaundice. However, in immunosuppressed individuals, the disease can progress to chronic hepatitis and even escalate to cirrhosis. For pregnant women, an HEV infection can cause fulminant liver failure, with a potential mortality rate of 25%. Mortality rates also rise amongst cirrhotic patients when they contract an acute HEV infection, which can even trigger acute-on-chronic liver failure if layered onto pre-existing chronic liver disease. As the prevalence of HEV infection continues to rise worldwide, highlighting the particular risks associated with severe HEV infection is of major medical interest. This text offers a brief summary of the characteristics of hepatitis developed by patient groups at an elevated risk of severe HEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Orosz
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Csongrád-Csanád, Hungary
| | - Károly Péter Sárvári
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Csongrád-Csanád, Hungary
| | - Áron Dernovics
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Csongrád-Csanád, Hungary
| | - András Rosztóczy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6725, Csongrád-Csanád, Hungary
| | - Klára Megyeri
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Csongrád-Csanád, Hungary
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Shahini E, Argentiero A, Andriano A, Losito F, Maida M, Facciorusso A, Cozzolongo R, Villa E. Hepatitis E Virus: What More Do We Need to Know? MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:998. [PMID: 38929615 PMCID: PMC11205503 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60060998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is typically a self-limiting, acute illness that spreads through the gastrointestinal tract but replicates in the liver. However, chronic infections are possible in immunocompromised individuals. The HEV virion has two shapes: exosome-like membrane-associated quasi-enveloped virions (eHEV) found in circulating blood or in the supernatant of infected cell cultures and non-enveloped virions ("naked") found in infected hosts' feces and bile to mediate inter-host transmission. Although HEV is mainly spread via enteric routes, it is unclear how it penetrates the gut wall to reach the portal bloodstream. Both virion types are infectious, but they infect cells in different ways. To develop personalized treatment/prevention strategies and reduce HEV impact on public health, it is necessary to decipher the entry mechanism for both virion types using robust cell culture and animal models. The contemporary knowledge of the cell entry mechanism for these two HEV virions as possible therapeutic target candidates is summarized in this narrative review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endrit Shahini
- Gastroenterology Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology-IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis”, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (F.L.); (R.C.)
| | | | - Alessandro Andriano
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Francesco Losito
- Gastroenterology Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology-IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis”, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (F.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Marcello Maida
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, S. Elia-Raimondi Hospital, 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy;
| | - Antonio Facciorusso
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Raffaele Cozzolongo
- Gastroenterology Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology-IRCCS “Saverio de Bellis”, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (F.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Erica Villa
- Gastroenterology Unit, CHIMOMO Department, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41121 Modena, Italy
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Creisher PS, Klein SL. Pathogenesis of viral infections during pregnancy. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0007323. [PMID: 38421182 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00073-23] [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: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYViral infections during pregnancy are associated with significant adverse perinatal and fetal outcomes. Pregnancy is a unique immunologic and physiologic state, which can influence control of virus replication, severity of disease, and vertical transmission. The placenta is the organ of the maternal-fetal interface and provides defense against microbial infection while supporting the semi-allogeneic fetus via tolerogenic immune responses. Some viruses, such as cytomegalovirus, Zika virus, and rubella virus, can breach these defenses, directly infecting the fetus and having long-lasting consequences. Even without direct placental infection, other viruses, including respiratory viruses like influenza viruses and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, still cause placental damage and inflammation. Concentrations of progesterone and estrogens rise during pregnancy and contribute to immunological adaptations, placentation, and placental development and play a pivotal role in creating a tolerogenic environment at the maternal-fetal interface. Animal models, including mice, nonhuman primates, rabbits, and guinea pigs, are instrumental for mechanistic insights into the pathogenesis of viral infections during pregnancy and identification of targetable treatments to improve health outcomes of pregnant individuals and offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S Creisher
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sabra L Klein
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Woytinek K, Glitscher M, Hildt E. Antagonism of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling favors hepatitis E virus life cycle. J Virol 2024:e0058024. [PMID: 38856640 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00580-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) poses a global threat, which currently remains understudied in terms of host interactions. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays multifaceted roles in viral pathogenesis, impacting host-cell entry, viral replication, and host-defense modulation. On the one hand, EGFR signaling emerged as a major driver in innate immunity; on the other hand, a crosstalk between HEV and EGFR requires deeper analysis. We therefore aimed to dissect the receptor's involvement in the HEV life cycle. In persistently HEV-infected cells, the EGFR amount is decreased alongside with enhanced receptor internalization. As compared with the control ligand-induced EGFR, activation revealed an early receptor internalization and degradation in HEV-replicating cells, resulting in a notable EGFR signaling delay. Interestingly, inhibition or silencing of EGFR increased viral replication, extracellular and intracellular viral transcripts, and released infectious particles. The pro-viral impact of EGFR inhibition was attributed to (i) impaired expression of interferon-stimulated genes, (ii) activation of the autophagosomal system, (iii) virus-induced inhibition of lysosomal acidification, and (iv) a decrease of the cellular cholesterol level. IMPORTANCE This study identifies epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as a novel host factor affecting hepatitis E virus (HEV): EGFR downregulation promotes viral replication, release, and evasion from the innate immune response. The discovery that EGFR inhibition favors viral spread is particularly concerning for HEV patients undergoing EGFR inhibitor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mirco Glitscher
- Division of Virology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | - Eberhard Hildt
- Division of Virology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
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Liu T, He Q, Yang X, Li Y, Yuan D, Lu Q, Tang T, Guan G, Zheng L, Zhang H, Xia C, Yin X, Wei G, Chen X, Lu F, Wang L. An Immunocompetent Mongolian Gerbil Model for Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 1 Infection. Gastroenterology 2024:S0016-5085(24)00364-0. [PMID: 38582270 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatitis E virus (HEV), primarily genotype 1 (HEV-1), causes approximately 20.1 million infections, 44,000 deaths, and 3000 stillbirths annually. Current evidence indicates that HEV-1 is only transmitted in humans. Here, we evaluated whether Mongolian gerbils can serve as animal models for HEV-1 infection. METHODS Mongolian gerbils were used for HEV-1 and hepatitis E virus genotype 3 infection experiments. HEV infection parameters, including detection of HEV RNA and HEV antigen, liver function assessment, and histopathology, were evaluated. RESULTS We adapted a clinical isolate of HEV-1 for Mongolian gerbils by serial passaging in feces of aged male gerbils. The gerbil-adapted strain obtained at passage 3 induced a robust, acute HEV infection, characterized by stable fecal virus shedding, elevated liver enzymes, histopathologic changes in the liver, and seroconversion to anti-HEV. An infectious complementary DNA clone of the adapted virus was generated. HEV-1-infected pregnant gerbils showed a high rate of maternal mortality and vertical transmission. HEV RNA or antigens were detected in the liver, kidney, intestine, placenta, testis, and fetus liver. Liver and placental transcriptomic analyses indicated activation of host immunity. Tacrolimus prolonged HEV-1 infection, whereas ribavirin cleared infection. The protective efficacy of a licensed HEV vaccine was validated using this model. CONCLUSIONS HEV-1 efficiently infected Mongolian gerbils. This HEV-1 infection model will be valuable for investigating hepatitis E immunopathogenesis and evaluating vaccines and antivirals against HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxu Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyu He
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyue Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yuebao Li
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Disen Yuan
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qinghui Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Guiwe Guan
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Liwei Zheng
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - He Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Changyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Xin Yin
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Guochao Wei
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Fengmin Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
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Cong C, Xia Y, Gong S, Li T, Liu H, Zhong G, Chen D, Zhao W, Yu W, Yao Y, Liu J, Wei D, Cao H, Huang F. Infectious hepatitis E virus excreted into the vagina. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23500. [PMID: 38441537 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301519rr] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) persists in the male genital tract that associates with infertility. However, the presence of HEV in the female genital tract is unreported. Vaginal secretions, cervical smears, and cervix uteri were collected to explore the presence of HEV in the female genital tract. HEV RNA and/or antigens were detected in the vaginal secretions, cervical smears, and the cervix uteri of women. The infectivity of HEV excreted into vaginal secretions was further validated in vitro. In addition, HEV replicates in the female genital tract were identified in HEV-infected animal models by vaginal injection or vaginal mucosal infection to imitate sexual transmission. Serious genital tract damage and inflammatory responses with significantly elevated mucosal innate immunity were observed in women or animals with HEV vaginal infection. Results demonstrated HEV replicates in the female genital tract and causes serious histopathological damage and inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Cong
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Yueping Xia
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Shilin Gong
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Tengyuan Li
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Huichan Liu
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Guo Zhong
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Dongxue Chen
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Wanqiu Zhao
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Wenhai Yu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, PR China
| | - Yinjie Yao
- Kunming City Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Kunming, PR China
| | - Jiankun Liu
- 920th Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, PR China
| | - Daqiao Wei
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Hongcui Cao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Fen Huang
- School of Medicine, The Academy for Cells and Life Health, Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China
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Glitscher M, Spannaus IM, Behr F, Murra RO, Woytinek K, Bender D, Hildt E. The Protease Domain in HEV pORF1 Mediates the Replicase's Localization to Multivesicular Bodies and Its Exosomal Release. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:589-605. [PMID: 38190941 PMCID: PMC10900777 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.01.001] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A peculiar feature of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) is its reliance on the exosomal route for viral release. Genomic replication is mediated via the viral polyprotein pORF1, yet little is known about its subcellular localization. METHODS Subcellular localization of pORF1 and its subdomains, generated and cloned based on a structural prediciton of the viral replicase, was analyzed via confocal laser scanning microscopy. Exosomes released from cells were isolated via ultracentrifugation and analyzed by isopycnic density gradient centrifugation. This was followed by fluorimetry or Western blot analyses or reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction to analyze separated particles in more detail. RESULTS We found pORF1 to be accumulating within the endosomal system, most dominantly to multivesicular bodies (MVBs). Expression of the polyprotein's 7 subdomains revealed that the papain-like cysteine-protease (PCP) is the only domain localizing like the full-length protein. A PCP-deficient pORF1 mutant lost its association to MVBs. Strikingly, both pORF1 and PCP can be released via exosomes. Similarly, genomic RNA still is released via exosomes in the absence of pORF2/3. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, we found that pORF1 localizes to MVBs in a PCP-dependent manner, which is followed by exosomal release. This reveals new aspects of HEV life cycle, because replication and release could be coupled at the endosomal interface. In addition, this may mediate capsid-independent spread or may facilitate the spread of viral infection, because genomes entering the cell during de novo infection readily encounter exosomally transferred pORF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirco Glitscher
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, Langen, Germany
| | | | - Fabiane Behr
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, Langen, Germany
| | | | | | - Daniela Bender
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, Langen, Germany
| | - Eberhard Hildt
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, Langen, Germany.
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Sayed IM, El-Shamy A, Abdelwahab SF. Emerging Pathogens Causing Acute Hepatitis. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2952. [PMID: 38138096 PMCID: PMC10745594 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute hepatitis is defined as an inflammation or injury in the hepatocytes that continues for a short period of time (less than 6 months) [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim M Sayed
- Department of Biomedical & Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | - Ahmed El-Shamy
- Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences Program, College of Graduate Studies, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA
| | - Sayed F Abdelwahab
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Wu J, Xiang Z, Gao C, Huang L, Hua J, Tong L, Ling B, Yao Y, Jiang B, Wang D, Li G, Ju F, Jin X, Xu P, Bortolanza M, Jiang C, Chao C, Dong P, Huang F. Genotype 4 HEV infection triggers the initiation and development of acute pancreatitis. Microbes Infect 2023; 25:105190. [PMID: 37499789 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105190] [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: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The role of HEV infection in AP remains unclear. 1000 patients with AP and 1000 HCs were enrolled, and pancreatitis was evaluated in HEV-infected rhesus macaques. The positive rates of anti-HEV IgG, IgM, and HEV RNA in the AP patients were significantly higher than HCs. With the increase in the severity of AP, the percentage of HEV infection increased. AP patients were divided into AP- and AP + AHE groups. The percentage of severe AP in the AP + AHE group was significantly higher than in the AP- group. HEV infection was one of the main independent risk factors and had high predictive power for AP outcomes. A high level of HEV titer would prolong the recovery time and increase the risk of recurrent AP. Moreover, AP + AHE patients receiving conservative treatment showed a better prognosis. Furthermore, HEV can replicate in the pancreas of rhesus macaques. The pancreatic islet structure was damaged, the tissue was loose after 272 dpi, and a large amount of hyperemia appeared after 770 dpi. HEV infection also caused a large number of inflammatory cells in the pancreas. The pancreas and liver had a comparable viral load. HEV infection affects AP's occurrence, development, and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, 242 Guangji Road, Suzhou, 215008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ze Xiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, China
| | - Ce Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, 242 Guangji Road, Suzhou, 215008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lan Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, 242 Guangji Road, Suzhou, 215008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jingwen Hua
- Jiangsu University School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212000, China
| | - Ling Tong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Rd., Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Bai Ling
- Department of Pharmacy, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng City, Yancheng, 224005, China
| | - Yiwen Yao
- Department of Internal Medicine V-Pulmonology, Allergology, Respiratory Intensive Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66424, Homburg, Germany
| | - Bin Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Central Blood Station of Yancheng City, Yancheng, 224000, China
| | - Dawei Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second People's Hospital of Yancheng City, Yancheng, 224005, China
| | - Gongqi Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Linyi Traditional Hospital, Linyi, 276003, Shandong, China
| | - Feng Ju
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The People's Hospital of Jianhu City, Jianhu, 224799, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou City, 310012, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou, 215505, China
| | - Mariza Bortolanza
- Department of Internal Medicine V-Pulmonology, Allergology, Respiratory Intensive Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66424, Homburg, Germany
| | - Chun Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, 242 Guangji Road, Suzhou, 215008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cong Chao
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, 727 Jing Ming South Road, Kunming, China
| | - Peng Dong
- Hangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Fen Huang
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, 727 Jing Ming South Road, Kunming, China.
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11
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Yang H, Wen J, Zhang Q, Chen C, Ma H, Zhao L, Li J. Clinical characteristics of 1279 patients with hepatitis E in Tianjin. Epidemiol Infect 2023; 151:e157. [PMID: 37704376 PMCID: PMC10548536 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268823001516] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus infection is a major cause of acute hepatitis, typically self-limiting but occasionally leading to liver failure. Understanding disease progression factors could inform prevention strategies. This study aimed to analyse the characteristics of a large cohort of hospitalised hepatitis E patients in Tianjin, China, and explore factors influencing their progression to liver failure. A total of 1279 hospitalised patients with hepatitis E were included in this cross-sectional study in Tianjin, China. Student's t-test and the Mann-Whitney U-test were used for comparisons. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to explore the association. Among these 1279 patients, 107 (8.4%) developed liver failure. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.150-2.887, p = 0.011), liver cirrhosis (95% [CI] 2.229-7.224, p < 0.001), and hepatitis B (95% [CI] 1.159-4.512, p = 0.017) were more likely to progress to liver failure. Hepatitis E patients with comorbid DM, liver cirrhosis, or hepatitis B virus co-infection have higher risks of developing liver failure. Hepatitis E vaccination may be recommended for these vulnerable patients to curb disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jun Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Clinical School of the Second People's Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Haixia Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lili Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
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12
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Williamson C, Nana M, Poon L, Kupcinskas L, Painter R, Taliani G, Heneghan M, Marschall HU, Beuers U. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of liver diseases in pregnancy. J Hepatol 2023; 79:768-828. [PMID: 37394016 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Liver diseases in pregnancy comprise both gestational liver disorders and acute and chronic hepatic disorders occurring coincidentally in pregnancy. Whether related to pregnancy or pre-existing, liver diseases in pregnancy are associated with a significant risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Thus, the European Association for the Study of Liver Disease invited a panel of experts to develop clinical practice guidelines aimed at providing recommendations, based on the best available evidence, for the management of liver disease in pregnancy for hepatologists, gastroenterologists, obstetric physicians, general physicians, obstetricians, specialists in training and other healthcare professionals who provide care for this patient population.
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13
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Wen GP, Wang MM, Tang ZM, Liu C, Yu ZH, Wang Z, Zheng ZZ, Zhou YL, Ge YS. Prevalence of Hepatitis E Virus and Its Associated Outcomes among Pregnant Women in China. Pathogens 2023; 12:1072. [PMID: 37764880 PMCID: PMC10536528 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091072] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a significant public health concern worldwide. Pregnant women are at high risk of severe HEV infection. Various adverse outcomes in pregnant women related to HEV infection have been well documented in low-income and middle-income countries with poor sanitation. However, previous studies have provided inconsistent conclusions regarding the effects of HEV infection on the health of pregnant women and their infants in developed countries and contemporary China. In China, previous studies on HEV in pregnant women mainly focused on anti-HEV IgM and/or anti-HEV IgG. In this study, 4244 pregnant women were retrospectively analyzed for HEV-related markers. The positive rates of HEV antigen, HEV RNA, anti-HEV IgM, and anti-HEV IgG were 0.28%, 0.54%, 0.35%, and 10.49%, respectively. Among the 467 pregnant women who tested positive for at least one HEV-related marker, 92.93% (434) were positive for anti-HEV IgG only and 0.21% (1) were positive for HEV antigen, anti-HEV IgM, and anti-HEV IgG. Although the prevalence of anti-HEV IgG significantly increased with age, the prevalence of anti-HEV IgM, HEV RNA, and HEV antigen did not differ among pregnant women of different ages. Thirty-three pregnant women were positive for at least one of anti-HEV IgM, HEV antigen, and HEV RNA, and these individuals were recently or currently infected with HEV. None of the 33 pregnant women exhibited obvious clinical symptoms. Of the 33 pregnant women, 39.39% (13) experienced adverse fetal outcomes, including preterm birth, fetal distress, and low birth weight, the incidence of which was significantly higher than in pregnant women who were not recently or currently infected with HEV. These findings suggest that maternal HEV infection may impact the health of fetuses; thus, these results may contribute to the development of appropriate public health interventions for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Ping Wen
- Department of Central Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Min-Ming Wang
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zi-Min Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Infectious Disease Diagnostic Technology, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zi-Hao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- School of Pharmacy, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zi-Zheng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yu-Lin Zhou
- Department of Central Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yun-Sheng Ge
- Department of Central Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
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14
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Khuroo MS. Discovery of Hepatitis E and Its Impact on Global Health: A Journey of 44 Years about an Incredible Human-Interest Story. Viruses 2023; 15:1745. [PMID: 37632090 PMCID: PMC10459142 DOI: 10.3390/v15081745] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The story of the discovery of hepatitis E originated in the late 1970s with my extreme belief that there was a hidden saga in the relationship between jaundice and pregnancy in developing countries and the opportunity for a massive epidemic of viral hepatitis, which hit the Gulmarg Kashmir region in November 1978. Based on data collected from a door-to-door survey, the existence of a new disease, epidemic non-A, non-B hepatitis, caused by a hitherto unknown hepatitis virus, was announced. This news was received by the world community with hype and skepticism. In the early 1980s, the world watched in awe as an extreme example of human self-experimentation led to the identification of VLP. In 1990, a cDNA clone from the virus responsible for epidemic non-A, non-B hepatitis was isolated. Over the years, we traversed three eras of ambiguity, hope, and hype of hepatitis E research and conducted several seminal studies to understand the biology of HEV and manifestations of hepatitis E. Many milestones have been reached on the long and winding road of hepatitis E research to understand the structure, biology, and diversity of the agent, changing the behavior of the pathogen in developed countries, and the discovery of a highly effective vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sultan Khuroo
- Digestive Diseases Centre, Dr. Khuroo's Medical Clinic, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir 190010, India
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15
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Koenig MR, Mitzey AM, Zeng X, Reyes L, Simmons HA, Morgan TK, Bohm EK, Pritchard JC, Schmidt JA, Ren E, Leyva Jaimes FB, Winston E, Basu P, Weiler AM, Friedrich TC, Aliota MT, Mohr EL, Golos TG. Vertical transmission of African-lineage Zika virus through the fetal membranes in a rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) model. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011274. [PMID: 37549143 PMCID: PMC10434957 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) can be transmitted vertically from mother to fetus during pregnancy, resulting in a range of outcomes including severe birth defects and fetal/infant death. Potential pathways of vertical transmission in utero have been proposed but remain undefined. Identifying the timing and routes of vertical transmission of ZIKV may help us identify when interventions would be most effective. Furthermore, understanding what barriers ZIKV overcomes to effect vertical transmission may help improve models for evaluating infection by other pathogens during pregnancy. To determine the pathways of vertical transmission, we inoculated 12 pregnant rhesus macaques with an African-lineage ZIKV at gestational day 30 (term is 165 days). Eight pregnancies were surgically terminated at either seven or 14 days post-maternal infection. Maternal-fetal interface and fetal tissues and fluids were collected and evaluated for ZIKV using RT-qPCR, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and plaque assays. Four additional pregnant macaques were inoculated and terminally perfused with 4% paraformaldehyde at three, six, nine, or ten days post-maternal inoculation. For these four cases, the entire fixed pregnant uterus was evaluated with in situ hybridization for ZIKV RNA. We determined that ZIKV can reach the MFI by six days after infection and infect the fetus by ten days. Infection of the chorionic membrane and the extraembryonic coelomic fluid preceded infection of the fetus and the mesenchymal tissue of the placental villi. We did not find evidence to support a transplacental route of ZIKV vertical transmission via infection of syncytiotrophoblasts or villous cytotrophoblasts. The pattern of infection observed in the maternal-fetal interface provides evidence of paraplacental vertical ZIKV transmission through the chorionic membrane, the outer layer of the fetal membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle R. Koenig
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Ann M. Mitzey
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Xiankun Zeng
- Pathology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Leticia Reyes
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Heather A. Simmons
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Terry K. Morgan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Ellie K. Bohm
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Julia C. Pritchard
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Jenna A. Schmidt
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Emily Ren
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Fernanda B. Leyva Jaimes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Eva Winston
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Puja Basu
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Andrea M. Weiler
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Thomas C. Friedrich
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Matthew T. Aliota
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Emma L. Mohr
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Thaddeus G. Golos
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
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16
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Qian Z, Li T, Xia Y, Cong C, Chen S, Zhang Y, Gong S, Wang W, Liu H, Chen D, Zhao W, Zhong G, Deng Y, Yu W, Wei D, Yu X, Huang F. Genotype 4 Hepatitis E virus replicates in the placenta, causes severe histopathological damage, and vertically transmits to fetuses. J Infect 2023; 87:34-45. [PMID: 37160209 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2023.05.003] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in pregnant women causes adverse pregnancy outcomes, including maternal death, premature delivery, stillbirth, and fetal infection. However, the pathogenesis of maternal and fetal HEV infection is unclear. METHODS Placenta and placental appendixes were collected from HEV-4 infected pregnant women to explore the vertical transmission of HEV from mothers to fetuses. RESULTS HEV-4 replicated in the placenta, placental membrane, and umbilical cord and was vertically transmitted from mothers to fetuses. HEV-4 placental infection resulted in serious histopathological damage, such as fibrosis and calcification, and severe inflammatory responses. Adverse maternal outcomes were observed in 38.5% of HEV-4 infected pregnant women. The distinct cytokine/chemokine expression patterns of HEV-infected pregnant women and nonpregnant women may contribute to the adverse pregnancy outcomes. Furthermore, the impaired maternal and fetal innate immune responses against HEV-4 facilitated viral replication during pregnancy. CONCLUSION HEV-4 replicates in the placenta and is vertically transmitted from mothers to fetuses, causing severe histopathological damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyao Qian
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Tengyuan Li
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Yueping Xia
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Chao Cong
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Shuangfeng Chen
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Yike Zhang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Shiling Gong
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Huichan Liu
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Dongxue Chen
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Wanqiu Zhao
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Guo Zhong
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Yinlong Deng
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Wenhai Yu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, PR China.
| | - Daqiao Wei
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China.
| | - Xiongwu Yu
- Qujing Maternal and Child Health-care Hospital Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Qujing, PR China
| | - Fen Huang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China; Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Kunming, PR China.
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17
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Mahsoub HM, Heffron CL, Hassebroek AM, Sooryanarain H, Wang B, LeRoith T, Rodríguez GR, Tian D, Meng XJ. Fetal Loss in Pregnant Rabbits Infected with Genotype 3 Hepatitis E Virus Is Associated with Altered Inflammatory Responses, Enhanced Virus Replication, and Extrahepatic Virus Dissemination with Positive Correlations with Increased Estradiol Level. mBio 2023; 14:e0041823. [PMID: 36939322 PMCID: PMC10128027 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00418-23] [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] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes adverse clinical outcomes in pregnant women, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. To delineate the mechanisms of pregnancy-associated adverse effects during HEV infection, we utilized a genotype 3 HEV from rabbit (HEV-3ra) and its cognate host (rabbits) to systematically investigate the clinical consequences, viral replication dynamics, and host immune and hormonal responses of HEV infection during pregnancy. We found a significant fetal loss of 23% in HEV-infected pregnant rabbits, indicating an early-stage miscarriage. HEV infection in pregnant rabbits was characterized by higher viral loads in feces, intestinal contents, liver, and spleen tissues, as well as a longer and earlier onset of viremia than in infected nonpregnant rabbits. HEV infection altered the pattern of cytokine gene expressions in the liver of pregnant rabbits and caused a transient increase of serum interferon gamma (IFN-γ) shortly after a notable increase in viral replication, which may contribute to early fetal loss. Histological lesions in the spleen were more pronounced in infected pregnant rabbits, although moderate liver lesions were seen in both infected pregnant and nonpregnant rabbits. Total bilirubin was elevated in infected pregnant rabbits. The serum levels of estradiol (E2) in HEV-infected pregnant rabbits were significantly higher than those in mock-infected pregnant rabbits at 14 days postinoculation (dpi) and correlated positively with higher viral loads in feces, liver, and spleen tissues at 28 dpi, suggesting that it may play a role in extrahepatic virus dissemination. The results have important implications for understanding the severe diseases associated with HEV infection during pregnancy. IMPORTANCE HEV causes adverse pregnancy outcomes, with a mortality rate of >30% in pregnant women, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we utilized HEV-3ra and its cognate host (pregnant rabbit) to delineate the potential underlying mechanisms of pregnancy-associated adverse outcomes during HEV infection. We found that infected pregnant rabbits had a fetal loss of 23%, which coincided with enhanced viral replication and an elevated systemic IFN-γ response, followed by longer viremia duration and extrahepatic viral dissemination. Estradiol levels were increased in infected pregnant rabbits and correlated positively with higher fecal viral shedding and higher viral loads in liver and spleen tissues. Infected pregnant rabbits had more pronounced splenic lesions, higher serum total bilirubin, and an altered cytokine gene expression profile in the liver. The results will contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms of HEV-associated adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan M. Mahsoub
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - C. Lynn Heffron
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Anna M. Hassebroek
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Harini Sooryanarain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Tanya LeRoith
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Guillermo Raimundi Rodríguez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Debin Tian
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Xiang-Jin Meng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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18
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Giles ML, Sing Way S, Marchant A, Aghaepour N, James T, Schaltz-Buchholzer F, Zazara D, Arck P, Kollmann TR. Maternal vaccination to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes: An underutilized molecular immunological intervention? J Mol Biol 2023; 435:168097. [PMID: 37080422 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Adverse pregnancy outcomes including maternal mortality, stillbirth, preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction cause millions of deaths each year. More effective interventions are urgently needed. Maternal immunization could be one such intervention protecting the mother and newborn from infection through its pathogen-specific effects. However, many adverse pregnancy outcomes are not directly linked to the infectious pathogens targeted by existing maternal vaccines but rather are linked to pathological inflammation unfolding during pregnancy. The underlying pathogenesis driving such unfavourable outcomes have only partially been elucidated but appear to relate to altered immune regulation by innate as well as adaptive immune responses, ultimately leading to aberrant maternal immune activation. Maternal immunization, like all immunization, impacts the immune system beyond pathogen-specific immunity. This raises the possibility that maternal vaccination could potentially be utilised as a pathogen-agnostic immune modulatory intervention to redirect abnormal immune trajectories towards a more favourable phenotype providing pregnancy protection. In this review we describe the epidemiological evidence surrounding this hypothesis, along with the mechanistic plausibility and present a possible path forward to accelerate addressing the urgent need of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sing Sing Way
- Center for Inflammation and Tolerance; Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati USA
| | | | - Nima Aghaepour
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Tomin James
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Dimitra Zazara
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Petra Arck
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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19
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Animal Models for Studying Congenital Transmission of Hepatitis E Virus. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11030618. [PMID: 36985191 PMCID: PMC10057890 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11030618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most intriguing issues in the hepatitis E virus (HEV) field is the significant increase in mortality rates of the mother and fetus when infection occurs in the second and third trimesters of gestation. A virus that is normally self-limiting and has a mortality rate of less than one percent in otherwise healthy individuals steeply rises by up to 30% in these pregnant populations. Answering this pivotal question has not been a simple task. HEV, in general, has been a difficult pathogen to understand in the laboratory setting. A historical lack of ability to efficiently propagate the virus in tissue culture models has led to many molecular aspects of the viral lifecycle being understudied. Although great strides have been made in recent years to adapt viruses to cell culture, this field remains behind other viruses that are much easier to replicate efficiently in vitro. Some of the greatest discoveries regarding HEV have come from using animal models for which naturally occurring strains of HEV have been identified, including pigs and chickens, but key limitations have made animal models imperfect for studying all aspects of human HEV infections. In addition to the difficulties working with HEV, pregnancy is a very complicated biological process with an elaborate interplay between many different host systems, including hormones, cardiovascular, kidneys, respiratory, gastrointestinal, epithelial, liver, metabolic, immune, and others. Significant differences between the timing and interplay of these systems are notable between species, and making direct comparisons between animals and humans can be difficult at times. No simple answer exists as to how HEV enhances mortality in pregnant populations. One of the best approaches to studying HEV in pregnancy is likely a combinatorial approach that uses the best combination of emerging in vitro and in vivo systems while accounting for the deficiencies that are present in each model. This review describes many of the current HEV animal model systems and the strengths and weaknesses of each as they apply to HEV pregnancy-associated mortality. We consider factors that are critical to analyzing HEV infection within the host and how, despite no perfect animal model for human pregnancy mortality existing, recent developments in HEV models, both in vitro and in vivo, are advancing our overall understanding of HEV in the pregnant host.
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Wang L, Wang Y, Zhuang H. Puzzles for Hepatitis E Virus. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1417:247-256. [PMID: 37223871 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-1304-6_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important but understudied virus that has been the major cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. In recent decades, our understanding of this neglected virus has changed greatly: novel forms of viral proteins and their functions have been discovered; HEV can transmit via blood transfusion and organ transplantation; HEV can infect many animal species and the number is still increasing; HEV can induce chronic hepatitis and extra-hepatic manifestations. However, we are short of effective treatment measures to counter the virus. In this chapter we tend to briefly introduce the puzzles and major knowledge gaps existed in the field of HEV research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Youchun Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, China
| | - Hui Zhuang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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21
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Modulation of SOCS3 Levels via STAT3 and Estrogen-ERαp66 Signaling during Hepatitis E Virus Replication in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. J Virol 2022; 96:e0100822. [PMID: 36102649 PMCID: PMC9555149 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01008-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection usually results in a self-limiting acute disease; however, in infected pregnant women, it is associated with increased mortality and fulminant hepatic failure. Estrogen is known to be elevated during pregnancy, and estrogen signaling via classical estrogen receptor-ERα is known to regulate hepatocyte function and host innate immune response, including the STAT3 pathway. In this study, we investigated whether the estrogen classical signaling pathway via ERαp66 has any effect on STAT3 activation during HEV replication and HEV-induced IFN response. We first demonstrated that Huh7-S10-3 liver cells expressed the nonfunctional estrogen receptor ERαp36 isoform and lack the functional ERαp66 isoform. We further showed persistent phosphorylated-STAT3 levels in genotype 3 human HEV (Kernow P6 strain) RNA-transfected cells at later time points. In Huh7-S10-3 cells, estrogen at first-to-third trimester concentration (7.3 to 73 nM) did not significantly affect HEV replication; however, blocking of STAT3 activation led to a decrease in the HEV ORF2 protein level. Our mechanistic study revealed that STAT3 differentially regulates SOCS3 and type-III interferon (IFN) levels during HEV replication and the presence of estrogen-ERαp66 signaling stabilizes SOCS3 levels in vitro. We also demonstrate that HEV infection in pregnant and nonpregnant rabbits led to a significant increase in IFN response as measured by increased levels of IFN-stimulated-gene-15 (ISG15) mRNA levels irrespective of pregnancy status. Collectively, the results indicate that estrogen signaling and STAT3 regulate SOCS3 and IFN responses in vitro during HEV replication. The results have important implications for understanding HEV replication and HEV-induced innate immune response in pregnant women. IMPORTANCE Hepatitis E is usually a self-resolving acute disease; however, in pregnant women, HEV infection is associated with high mortality and fulminant hepatic failure. During pregnancy, estrogen levels are elevated, and in the liver, the estrogen receptor ERα is predominant and estrogen signaling is known to regulate hepatocyte metabolism and leptin-induced STAT3 levels. Viruses can module host innate immune response via STAT3. Therefore, in this study, we investigated whether STAT3 and estrogen-classical signaling via the ERαp66 pathway modulate HEV replication and HEV-induced innate immune response. We demonstrated that estrogen signaling did not affect HEV replication in human liver cells, but blocking of STAT3 activation reduced HEV capsid protein levels in human liver cells. We also showed that inhibition of STAT3 activation reduced SOCS3 levels, while the presence of the estrogen-ERαp66 signaling pathway stabilized SOCS3 levels. The results from this study will aid our understanding of the mechanism of HEV pathogenesis and immune response during pregnancy.
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Kar P, Sengupta A. Hepatitis E virus infection during pregnancy in South Asian countries: why is mortality so high? Future Virol 2022. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2021-0261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Premashis Kar
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, UP, India
| | - Anando Sengupta
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, UP, India
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23
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Jabrane-Ferrat N, El Costa H. Decidua Basalis: An Ex Vivo Model to Study HIV-1 Infection During Pregnancy and Beyond. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2407:205-213. [PMID: 34985667 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1871-4_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The human decidua basalis, main uterine mucosa during pregnancy, provides an ex vivo model for studying natural protection of macrophages against HIV-1 infection at the mucosal level. Beyond pregnancy, the decidua constitutes also a valuable tool to assess tissue-resident macrophage infection. Here, we provide a detailed protocol for decidual macrophage purification and tissue infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabila Jabrane-Ferrat
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (Infinity), INSERM-CNRS-University Toulouse III, Toulouse, France.
| | - Hicham El Costa
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (Infinity), INSERM-CNRS-University Toulouse III, Toulouse, France.
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Mallet V, Scarano Pereira JP, Martinino A, Roque-Afonso AM. The rise of the hepatitis E virus. J Hepatol 2021; 75:1491-1493. [PMID: 34538615 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Mallet
- AP-HP. Centre Université de Paris, Groupe Hospitalier Cochin Port Royal, DMU Cancérologie et spécialités médico-chirurgicales, Service d'Hépatologie, Paris, France.
| | - Juan-Pablo Scarano Pereira
- AP-HP. Centre Université de Paris, Groupe Hospitalier Cochin Port Royal, DMU Cancérologie et spécialités médico-chirurgicales, Service d'Hépatologie, Paris, France
| | - Alessandro Martinino
- AP-HP. Centre Université de Paris, Groupe Hospitalier Cochin Port Royal, DMU Cancérologie et spécialités médico-chirurgicales, Service d'Hépatologie, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Marie Roque-Afonso
- APHP. Université Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Paul Brousse, DMU Biologie - Génétique - PUI, Service de Virologie, Villejuif, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale unité 1193, Villejuif, France
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Clinical features of sporadic hepatitis E virus infection in pregnant women in Shanghai, China. J Infect 2021; 84:64-70. [PMID: 34767838 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection causes high mortality in pregnant women of developing regions during large outbreaks. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical features of HEV-infected pregnant women in Shanghai, China where the epidemiology of HEV has shifted from large outbreaks to the sporadic form. METHODS Clinical data of 516 pregnant and nonpregnant child-bearing age women diagnosed with HEV infection during 2009-2020 was collected at the Shanghai Public Health Clinical center. Patients' data were analysed for clinical features and laboratory parameters accordingly. RESULTS Most of the hospitalized HEV-infected pregnant women (85.23%, 127/149) showed no obvious clinical symptoms and the disease outcome was generally benign with no liver failure or maternal mortality observed in the patients. By comparison, fewer (37.21%, 32/86) of the HEV-infected nonpregnant women were asymptomatic, and five cases (5.81%, 5/86) of liver failure were observed among them. The levels of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin (TBiL), direct bilirubin (DBiL) and total bile acids (TBA) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in nonpregnant women than those of the pregnant women. We found 42.99% (46/107) births had adverse foetal/neonatal outcome. Mothers who presented with adverse foetal/neonatal outcome showed higher (P < 0.05) serum TBiL, DBiL and TBA levels than those without. CONCLUSION We found that the clinical features of sporadic HEV infection in pregnant women in Shanghai, China are generally mild and no maternal mortality occurred. However foetal/neonatal adverse outcomes including preterm births and stillbirths were observed in HEV-infected pregnant women.
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TROMBETTA CLAUDIAMARIA, VIVIANI SIMONETTA, MONTOMOLI EMANUELE, MARCHI SERENA. Seroprevalence of antibodies to cytomegalovirus in pregnant women in the Apulia region (Italy). JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2021; 62:E372-E376. [PMID: 34604575 PMCID: PMC8451340 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2021.62.2.1800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Cytomegalovirus is ubiquitous and easily transmitted by contact. Following the first infection, the virus becomes latent and periodic reactivation could occur due to immunosuppression. If the infection is acquired in pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, the foetal consequences could be serious. The present study was conducted to assess the serological profile of pregnant women with respect to cytomegalovirus in Apulia from 2016 to 2019. Methods Serum samples were tested by commercial ELISA kit for the detection of specific IgM and IgG antibodies against cytomegalovirus. Results The data showed that most of the pregnant women (70.8%), especially those of ≥ 40 years of age (80.6%), has antibodies against cytomegalovirus, though these do not confer fully protective immunity against infection by different strains nor can prevent the re-activation of the latent one. Conversely, most of the youngest women are seronegative (44.4% in women < 25 years of age) and vulnerable during pregnancy. Conclusions Currently, cytomegalovirus screening for pregnant women is not mandatory in Italy. Considering that congenital cytomegalovirus is the leading non-genetic cause of sensorineural hearing loss, it would be extremely useful and cost-saving to screen women of childbearing age and women at early stage of pregnancy for cytomegalovirus infection in addition to increase awareness of cytomegalovirus infection and consequences among pregnant women, health care workers and the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- CLAUDIA MARIA TROMBETTA
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Correspondence: Claudia Maria Trombetta, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy - E-mail:
| | - SIMONETTA VIVIANI
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - EMANUELE MONTOMOLI
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- VisMederi srl, Siena, Italy
| | - SERENA MARCHI
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Uterine Injury Caused by Genotype 4 Hepatitis E Virus Infection Based on a BALB/c Mice Model. Viruses 2021; 13:v13101950. [PMID: 34696377 PMCID: PMC8538062 DOI: 10.3390/v13101950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate whether uterine injury caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is responsible for adverse pregnancy outcomes. HEV-infected female BALB/c mice were coupled with healthy male BALB/c mice at 0, 7, 14, 21, and 91 dpi to explore the uterine injury caused by HEV infection. Mice were euthanized after 10 days of copulation, and uteruses were collected for HEV RNA and antigen detection and histopathological analysis. Inflammatory responses; apoptosis; and estrogen receptor ɑ (ER-ɑ), endomethal antibody (ERAb), cytokeratin-7 (CK7), vimentin (VIM), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression levels were evaluated. After 10 days of copulation, miscarriage and nonpregnancy, as well as enlarged uteruses filled with inflammatory cytokines, were found in HEV-infected mice. HEV RNA and antigens were detected in the sera and uteruses of HEV-infected mice. Significant endometrial thickness (EMT) thinning, severe inflammatory responses, and aggravated apoptosis in the uteruses of HEV-infected mice that experienced miscarriage might contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Furthermore, significantly suppressed ER-ɑ expression and increased ERAb, CK7, VIM, and VEGF expression levels were found in the uteruses of HEV-infected mice that had miscarried. However, uterine damage recovered after complete HEV clearance, and impaired fertility was improved. EMT injury, severe inflammatory responses, and aggravated apoptosis in the uterus caused by HEV infection are responsible for poor pregnancy outcomes.
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Yadav KK, Kenney SP. Hepatitis E Virus Immunopathogenesis. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091180. [PMID: 34578211 PMCID: PMC8465319 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus is an important emerging pathogen producing a lethal impact on the pregnant population and immunocompromised patients. Starting in 1983, it has been described as the cause for acute hepatitis transmitted via the fecal–oral route. However, zoonotic and blood transfusion transmission of HEV have been reported in the past few decades, leading to the detailed research of HEV pathogenesis. The reason behind HEV being highly virulent to the pregnant population particularly during the third trimester, leading to maternal and fetal death, remains unknown. Various host factors (immunological, nutritional, hormonal) and viral factors have been studied to define the key determinants assisting HEV to be virulent in pregnant and immunocompromised patients. Similarly, chronic hepatitis is seen particularly in solid organ transplant patients, resulting in fatal conditions. This review describes recent advances in the immunopathophysiology of HEV infections in general, pregnant, and immunocompromised populations, and further elucidates the in vitro and in vivo models utilized to understand HEV pathogenesis.
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Kupke P, Werner JM. Hepatitis E Virus Infection-Immune Responses to an Underestimated Global Threat. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092281. [PMID: 34571931 PMCID: PMC8468229 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with the hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the main ubiquitous causes for developing an acute hepatitis. Moreover, chronification plays a predominant role in immunocompromised patients such as transplant recipients with more frequent severe courses. Unfortunately, besides reduction of immunosuppression and off-label use of ribavirin or pegylated interferon alfa, there is currently no specific anti-viral treatment to prevent disease progression. So far, research on involved immune mechanisms induced by HEV is limited. It is very difficult to collect clinical samples especially from the early phase of infection since this is often asymptomatic. Nevertheless, it is certain that the outcome of HEV-infected patients correlates with the strength of the proceeding immune response. Several lymphoid cells have been identified in contributing either to disease progression or achieving sustained virologic response. In particular, a sufficient immune control by both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells is necessary to prevent chronic viral replication. Especially the mechanisms underlying fulminant courses are poorly understood. However, liver biopsies indicate the involvement of cytotoxic T cells in liver damage. In this review, we aimed to highlight different parts of the lymphoid immune response against HEV and point out questions that remain unanswered regarding this underestimated global threat.
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30
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Nadeem M, Ahmad T, Kakar SJ, Adnan F, Anjum S. Hepatitis E virus genotyping in Pakistan: a regional study to explore the implications for pregnant females. Future Virol 2021. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2020-0337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Aim: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) has different genotypes 1–4, which is generally associated with mild to severe complications among immunocompromised patients and pregnant women. Materials & methods: Immunoglobulin M (IgM) HEV-positive samples were collected from the diagnostic center. HEV infection was further confirmed by RT-based PCR and genotyping was done to affirm the prevailing genotype. Results: This study identified 28 patients from Islamabad who were confirmed to have immunoglobulins type M against HEV showing acute infection, of which 17 were pregnant and 11 were non-pregnant women. All pregnant women were in their third trimester of pregnancy. Conclusion: Genotype-1 is commonly associated with pregnant females presenting with HEV infections in Islamabad. There is a need to further identify both the sources & route of infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnoor Nadeem
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Tahir Ahmad
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Salik Javed Kakar
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Fazal Adnan
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sadia Anjum
- Department of Biology, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
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31
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Interplay between Hepatitis E Virus and Host Cell Pattern Recognition Receptors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179259. [PMID: 34502167 PMCID: PMC8431321 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) usually causes self-limiting acute hepatitis, but the disease can become chronic in immunocompromised individuals. HEV infection in pregnant women is reported to cause up to 30% mortality, especially in the third trimester. Additionally, extrahepatic manifestations like neuronal and renal diseases and pancreatitis are also reported during the course of HEV infection. The mechanism of HEV pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Innate immunity is the first line of defense triggered within minutes to hours after the first pathogenic insult. Growing evidence based on reverse genetics systems, in vitro cell culture models, and representative studies in animal models including non-human primates, has implicated the role of the host’s innate immune response during HEV infection. HEV persists in presence of interferons (IFNs) plausibly by evading cellular antiviral defense. This review summarizes our current understanding of recognizing HEV-associated molecular patterns by host cell Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) in eliciting innate immune response during HEV infection as well as mechanisms of virus-mediated immune evasion.
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Wu J, Xiang Z, Zhu C, Yao Y, Bortolanza M, Cao H, Li L. Extrahepatic manifestations related to hepatitis E virus infection and their triggering mechanisms. J Infect 2021; 83:298-305. [PMID: 34324940 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2021.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has many extrahepatic manifestations as well as liver symptoms. Multiple studies have shown that HEV infection has symptoms related to the nervous system, kidneys, cryoglobulinemia, hematological system, reproductive system, autoimmunity and pancreas. Hence, HEV infection should be considered as a systemic disease, rather than solely a liver disease. The extrahepatic manifestations induced by different genotypes of HEV vary. The severity of these diseases does not necessarily correlate with the severity of HEV infection, and even asymptomatic HEV infection may trigger and cause systemic diseases. Patients with systemic manifestations of HEV infection should have priority for antiviral therapy, which could alleviate or improve the extrahepatic manifestations related to HEV infection. However, the extrahepatic manifestations caused by different genotypes of HEV and their corresponding mechanisms have not been clearly identified. This review discusses the extrahepatic manifestations related to HEV infection and their triggering mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wu
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Rd., Hangzhou 310003, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, 242 Guangji Rd., Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Ze Xiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chunxia Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Rd., Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Yiwen Yao
- Department of Internal Medicine V-Pulmonology, Allergology, Respiratory Intensive Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg 66424, Germany
| | - Mariza Bortolanza
- Department of Internal Medicine V-Pulmonology, Allergology, Respiratory Intensive Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg 66424, Germany
| | - Hongcui Cao
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Rd., Hangzhou 310003, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases, 79 Qingchun Rd, Hangzhou 310003, China.
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Rd., Hangzhou 310003, China
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Espino A, El Costa H, Tabiasco J, Al-Daccak R, Jabrane-Ferrat N. Innate Immune Response to Viral Infections at the Maternal-Fetal Interface in Human Pregnancy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:674645. [PMID: 34368184 PMCID: PMC8339430 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.674645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta, the first and largest organ to develop after conception, not only nurtures and promotes the development of the conceptus, but, it also functions as a barrier against invading pathogens. Early phases of pregnancy are associated with expansion of specific subsets of Natural Killer cells (dNK) and macrophages (dMφ) at the maternal uterine mucosa, the basal decidua. In concert with cells of fetal origin, dNK cells, and dMφ orchestrate all steps of placenta and fetus development, and provide the first line of defense to limit vertical transmission. However, some pathogens that infect the mother can overcome this protective barrier and jeopardize the fetus health. In this review, we will discuss how members of the classical TORCH family (Toxoplasma, Other, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex virus) and some emerging viruses (Hepatitis E virus, Zika virus, and SARS-CoV2) can afford access to the placental fortress. We will also discuss how changes in the intrauterine environment as a consequence of maternal immune cell activation contribute to placental diseases and devastating pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Espino
- Infinity, Université de Toulouse - CNRS - Inserm, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Hicham El Costa
- Infinity, Université de Toulouse - CNRS - Inserm, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Julie Tabiasco
- Infinity, Université de Toulouse - CNRS - Inserm, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Reem Al-Daccak
- Inserm UMRS976 - Université de Paris - Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
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Glitscher M, Hildt E. Hepatitis E virus egress and beyond - the manifold roles of the viral ORF3 protein. Cell Microbiol 2021; 23:e13379. [PMID: 34272798 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although the hepatitis E virus represents an uprising threat to the global community by representing the commonest cause of an acute viral hepatitis worldwide, its life cycle is grossly understudied. Albeit HEV is a non-enveloped virus, its progeny is released as quasi-enveloped virions. Thus, the responsible accessory protein pORF3 gained rising attention in the past years. It mediates viral release via the exosomal route by targeting the viral capsid to the endosomal system, more precisely to multivesicular bodies. As this is followed by quasi-envelopment, pORF3 may in terms represent a substitute to a conventional envelope protein. This feature proofs to be rather unique with respect to other enteric viruses, although the protein's role in the viral life cycle seems to reach far beyond simply maintaining release of progeny viruses. How pORF3 affects viral morphogenesis, how it mediates efficient viral release and how it supports viral spread is summarised in this microreview. With this, we aim to shed light on functions of pORF3 to gain further insights in still enigmatic aspects of the HEV life cycle. TAKE AWAYS: HEV is released as exosome via multivesicular bodies Viral pORF3 mediates release via endosomal complexes required for transport pORF3 modulates various cellular processes in infected cells Elucidation of pORF3-related processes imply novel clinical strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eberhard Hildt
- Department Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
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35
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Khuroo MS. Hepatitis E and Pregnancy: An Unholy Alliance Unmasked from Kashmir, India. Viruses 2021; 13:1329. [PMID: 34372535 PMCID: PMC8310059 DOI: 10.3390/v13071329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The adverse relationship between viral hepatitis and pregnancy in developing countries had been interpreted as a reflection of retrospectively biased hospital-based data collection by the West. However, the discovery of hepatitis E virus (HEV) as the etiological agent of an epidemic of non-A, non-B hepatitis in Kashmir, and the documenting of the increased incidence and severity of hepatitis E in pregnancy via a house-to-house survey, unmasked this unholy alliance. In the Hepeviridae family, HEV-genotype (gt)1 from genus Orthohepevirus A has a unique open reading frame (ORF)4-encoded protein which enhances viral polymerase activity and viral replication. The epidemics caused by HEV-gt1, but not any other Orthohepevirus A genotype, show an adverse relationship with pregnancy in humans. The pathogenesis of the association is complex and at present not well understood. Possibly multiple factors play a role in causing severe liver disease in the pregnant women including infection and damage to the maternal-fetal interface by HEV-gt1; vertical transmission of HEV to fetus causing severe fetal/neonatal hepatitis; and combined viral and hormone related immune dysfunction of diverse nature in the pregnant women, promoting viral replication. Management is multidisciplinary and needs a close watch for the development and management of acute liver failure. (ALF). Preliminary data suggest beneficial maternal outcomes by early termination of pregnancy in patients with lower grades of encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sultan Khuroo
- Digestive Diseases Centre, Dr. Khuroo's Medical Clinic, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190010, India
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Smith I, Said B, Vaughan A, Haywood B, Ijaz S, Reynolds C, Brailsford S, Russell K, Morgan D. Case-Control Study of Risk Factors for Acquired Hepatitis E Virus Infections in Blood Donors, United Kingdom, 2018-2019. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:1654-1661. [PMID: 34013866 PMCID: PMC8153866 DOI: 10.3201/eid2706.203964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis in England. Substantial yearly increases of autochthonous infections were observed during 2003–2016 and again during 2017–2019. Previous studies associated acute HEV cases with consumption of processed pork products, we investigated risk factors for autochthonous HEV infections in the blood donor population in England. Study participants were 117 HEV RNA–positive blood donors and 564 HEV RNA–negative blood donors. No persons with positive results were vegetarian; 97.4% of persons with positive results reported eating pork products. Consuming bacon (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.7–5.5; p<0.0001), cured pork meats (OR 3.5, 95% CI 2.2–5.4; p<0.0001), and pigs’ liver (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.0–8.3; p = 0.04) were significantly associated with HEV infection. Our findings confirm previous links to pork products and suggest that appropriate animal husbandry is essential to reduce the risk for HEV infection.
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Abstract
Progesterone is crucial for the maintenance of pregnancy. During pregnancy hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is associated with increased fulminant hepatic failure and mortality rates. In this study, we determined whether progesterone modulates HEV replication and HEV-induced innate cytokine response in Huh7-S10-3 human liver cells. We first demonstrated that Huh7-S10-3 liver cells expressed SH3-domain-containing progesterone receptor membrane component (PGRMC)1/2 receptors involved in the progesterone nonclassical signaling pathway, while the classical progesterone receptor isoforms progesterone receptor-A and -B protein levels were undetectable. We showed that the genotype 3 HEV (strain P6) induced mRNA expression of type III interferon (IFN-λ1), but not other innate cytokines in Huh7-S10-3 cells. Pretreatment with progesterone at concentrations of 80 nM, 160 nM, or 480 nM, which are the physiological concentrations typically seen in the first- to third-trimester during pregnancy, significantly increased HEV replication in Huh7-S10-3 cells. However, pretreatment of cells with progesterone (80 nM) did not affect the level of HEV-induced IFN-λ1 mRNA expression. We further showed that loss of PGRMC1/2 receptors by small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown leads to an increase in HEV-induced IFN-λ1 expression levels at early time points via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway and thus resulted in a reduced level of HEV replication. Collectively, the results indicated that progesterone-mediated modulation of HEV replication in human liver cells is plausibly through SH3-domain containing proteins such as PGRMC1/2, but not likely through immunomodulation of HEV-induced interferon response in liver cells. The results have important implications in understanding the underlying mechanisms of high mortality and fulminant hepatitis in HEV-infected pregnant women.
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Zhang W, Aryan M, Qian S, Cabrera R, Liu X. A Focused Review on Recent Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Viral Hepatitis. Gastroenterology Res 2021; 14:139-156. [PMID: 34267829 PMCID: PMC8256899 DOI: 10.14740/gr1405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The global burden of viral hepatitis remains substantial despite advances in antiviral therapy and effective vaccines. There are five hepatitis viruses (hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E). Mortality related to hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infections is among the top four global infectious diseases, together with human immunodeficiency virus infection, malaria, and tuberculosis. Of those deaths, approximately 47% are attributable to hepatitis B virus, 48% to hepatitis C virus and the remainder to hepatitis A virus and hepatitis E virus. Ending hepatitis epidemics as a major public health threat is feasible with the tools and approaches currently available. Effective vaccines are available for preventing viral hepatitis A, B and E infections. New oral, well-tolerated treatment regimens for chronic hepatitis C patients can achieve cure rates of over 90%. Effective treatment is also available for people with chronic hepatitis B virus infection; although for most people such treatment needs to be long-term, and recent advanced aim at a “functional cure” of hepatitis B. In this review article, we discuss the most recent advances of the diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Mahmoud Aryan
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Steve Qian
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Roniel Cabrera
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xiuli Liu
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Mrzljak A, Jemersic L, Savic V, Balen I, Ilic M, Jurekovic Z, Pavicic-Saric J, Mikulic D, Vilibic-Cavlek T. Hepatitis E Virus in Croatia in the "One-Health" Context. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060699. [PMID: 34199798 PMCID: PMC8227679 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of viral hepatitis globally. The first human case of autochthonous HEV infection in Croatia was reported in 2012, with the undefined zoonotic transmission of HEV genotype 3. This narrative review comprehensively addresses the current knowledge on the HEV epidemiology in humans and animals in Croatia. Published studies showed the presence of HEV antibodies in different population groups, such as chronic patients, healthcare professionals, voluntary blood donors and professionally exposed and pregnant women. The highest seroprevalence in humans was found in patients on hemodialysis in a study conducted in 2018 (27.9%). Apart from humans, different studies have confirmed the infection in pigs, wild boars and a mouse, indicating the interspecies transmission of HEV due to direct or indirect contact or as a foodborne infection. Continued periodical surveys in humans and animals are needed to identify the possible changes in the epidemiology of HEV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mrzljak
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Lorena Jemersic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Vladimir Savic
- Poultry Center, Croatian Veterinary Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ivan Balen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Endocrinology, General Hospital “Dr. Josip Bencevic”, 35000 Slavonski Brod, Croatia;
| | - Maja Ilic
- Department of Epidemiology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Zeljka Jurekovic
- Department of Medicine, Merkur University Hospital, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Jadranka Pavicic-Saric
- Department of Anestesiology, Reanimatology and Intensive Care, Merkur University Hospital, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Danko Mikulic
- Department of Abdominal and Transplant Surgery, Merkur University Hospital, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Larrue H, Abravanel F, Peron JM. Hepatitis E, what is the real issue? Liver Int 2021; 41 Suppl 1:68-72. [PMID: 33975382 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a worldwide disease and the primary cause of acute viral hepatitis with an estimated 3.3 million symptomatic cases every year and 44,000 related deaths. It is a waterborne infection in the developing countries. In these countries, HEV genotypes 1 and 2 cause large outbreaks and affect young subjects resulting in significant mortality in pregnant women and patients with cirrhosis. In developed countries, HEV genotypes 3 and 4 are responsible for autochthonous, sporadic hepatitis and transmission is zoonotic. Parenteral transmission by the transfusion of blood products has been identified as a potential new mode of transmission. HEV can also cause neurological disorders and chronic infections in immunocompromised patients. The progression of acute hepatitis E is usually asymptomatic and resolves spontaneously. Diagnosis is based on both anti-HEV IgM antibodies in serum and viral RNA detection in blood or stools by PCR in immunocompetent patients, while only PCR is validated in immunocompromised individuals. Ribavirin is the only validated treatment in chronic infection. A vaccine has been developed in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Larrue
- Service d'hépatologie Hôpital Rangueil CHU Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier III, Toulouse, France
| | - Florence Abravanel
- Laboratoire de Virologie Hôpital Purpan CHU Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier III, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Marie Peron
- Service d'hépatologie Hôpital Rangueil CHU Toulouse, Université Paul Sabatier III, Toulouse, France
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Zaga-Clavellina V, Diaz L, Olmos-Ortiz A, Godínez-Rubí M, Rojas-Mayorquín AE, Ortuño-Sahagún D. Central role of the placenta during viral infection: Immuno-competences and miRNA defensive responses. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166182. [PMID: 34058350 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a unique immunological condition in which an "immune-diplomatic" dialogue between trophoblasts and maternal immune cells is established to protect the fetus from rejection, to create a privileged environment in the uterus and to simultaneously be alert to any infectious challenge. The maternal-placental-fetal interface (MPFI) performs an essential role in this immunological defense. In this review, we will address the MPFI as an active immuno-mechanical barrier that protects against viral infections. We will describe the main viral infections affecting the placenta and trophoblasts and present their structure, mechanisms of immunocompetence and defensive responses to viral infections in pregnancy. In particular, we will analyze infection routes in the placenta and trophoblasts and the maternal-fetal outcomes in both. Finally, we will focus on the cellular targets of the antiviral microRNAs from the C19MC cluster, and their effects at both the intra- and extracellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Zaga-Clavellina
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes (INPer), Ciudad de México C.P. 11000, Mexico
| | - Lorenza Diaz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México C.P. 14080, Mexico
| | - Andrea Olmos-Ortiz
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, INPer, Ciudad de México C.P. 11000, Mexico
| | - Marisol Godínez-Rubí
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología, Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
| | - Argelia E Rojas-Mayorquín
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad de Guadalajara, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Guadalajara 45200, Mexico
| | - Daniel Ortuño-Sahagún
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunobiología Molecular, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas (IICB) CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico.
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Izopet J, Marion O, Kamar N, Lhomme S. [Hepatitis E virus replication in intestinal cells: A new facet of this virus revealed]. Med Sci (Paris) 2021; 37:320-322. [PMID: 33908846 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2021024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Izopet
- Inserm UMR1291/CNRS UMR5051, INFINITY - Institut toulousain des maladies infectieuses et inflammatoires, 31024 Toulouse, France. - CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie de Purpan, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Olivier Marion
- Inserm UMR1291/CNRS UMR5051, INFINITY - Institut toulousain des maladies infectieuses et inflammatoires, 31024 Toulouse, France. - CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Rangueil, Service de néphrologie-hypertension artérielle-dialyse-transplantation, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Nassim Kamar
- Inserm UMR1291/CNRS UMR5051, INFINITY - Institut toulousain des maladies infectieuses et inflammatoires, 31024 Toulouse, France. - CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Rangueil, Service de néphrologie-hypertension artérielle-dialyse-transplantation, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Sébastien Lhomme
- Inserm UMR1291/CNRS UMR5051, INFINITY - Institut toulousain des maladies infectieuses et inflammatoires, 31024 Toulouse, France. - CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie de Purpan, 31059 Toulouse, France
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Micas F, Suin V, Péron JM, Scholtes C, Tuaillon E, Vanwolleghem T, Bocket L, Lhomme S, Dimeglio C, Izopet J, Abravanel F. Analyses of Clinical and Biological Data for French and Belgian Immunocompetent Patients Infected With Hepatitis E Virus Genotypes 4 and 3. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:645020. [PMID: 33936003 PMCID: PMC8079808 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.645020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 3 and 4 are the major causes of acute hepatitis in industrialized countries. Genotype 3 is mainly found in Europe and America, while genotype 4 is predominant in Asia. Several Japanese studies have suggested that genotype 4 is more virulent than genotype 3. We investigated this aspect by analyzing the clinical and biological data for 27 French and Belgian immunocompetent patients infected with HEV genotype 4. Their infections were probably acquired locally, since none of these patients reported traveling outside France or Belgium during the 2–8 weeks before symptoms onset. Each patient was matched for age (±5 years) and gender with two patients infected with HEV genotype 3. Bivariate analysis indicated that the HEV genotype 4-infected patients had significantly higher alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (2067 IU/L) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (1581 IU/L) activities and total bilirubin concentrations (92.4 μmol/L) than did those infected with HEV genotype 3 (1566 IU/L, p = 0.016; 657 IU/L, p = 0.003 and 47 μmol/L, p = 0.046) at diagnosis. In contrast, more patients infected with HEV genotype 3 reported dark urine (71% vs. 39%, p = 0.02) and experienced asthenia (89% vs. 58%, p < 0.01) than did those infected with HEV genotype 4. Two HEV genotype 4-infected patients died of multi-organ failure, while none of the genotype 3-infected patients died (p = 0.035). Finally, stepwise regression analysis retained only a greater increase in ALT (odds-ratio: 1.0005, 95% confidence interval: 1.00012–1.00084) and less frequent fever (odds-ratio = 0.1244; 95% confidence interval: 0.01887–0.82020) for patients infected with HEV genotype 4. We conclude that HEV-4 infections are likely to be associated with higher ALT activity than HEV-3 infections. Additional immunological and virological studies are required to confirm these findings and better understand the influence, if any, of genotype on HEV pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Micas
- Virology Laboratory, National Reference Centre of Hepatitis E Viruses, Federal Institute of Biology, University Hospital Center, Toulouse, France
| | - Vanessa Suin
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Marie Péron
- Department of Gastroenterology, Rangueil University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Caroline Scholtes
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France.,University of Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (UCBL1), Lyon, France.,Department of Virology, Croix Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Edouard Tuaillon
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic Infections, INSERM, University of Montpellier, Etablissement Français du Sang, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Thomas Vanwolleghem
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.,Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Laurence Bocket
- Virology Laboratory EA3610, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Center, Lille, France
| | - Sébastien Lhomme
- Virology Laboratory, National Reference Centre of Hepatitis E Viruses, Federal Institute of Biology, University Hospital Center, Toulouse, France.,UMR Inserm U1043, UMR CNRS, U5282, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Chloé Dimeglio
- Virology Laboratory, National Reference Centre of Hepatitis E Viruses, Federal Institute of Biology, University Hospital Center, Toulouse, France.,UMR Inserm U1043, UMR CNRS, U5282, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Virology Laboratory, National Reference Centre of Hepatitis E Viruses, Federal Institute of Biology, University Hospital Center, Toulouse, France.,UMR Inserm U1043, UMR CNRS, U5282, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Florence Abravanel
- Virology Laboratory, National Reference Centre of Hepatitis E Viruses, Federal Institute of Biology, University Hospital Center, Toulouse, France.,UMR Inserm U1043, UMR CNRS, U5282, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse, France
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Identification of the interferon-inducible GTPase GBP1 as major restriction factor for the Hepatitis E virus. J Virol 2021; 95:JVI.01564-20. [PMID: 33472929 PMCID: PMC8092694 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01564-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to gain deeper insight into HEV-induced innate immunity by characterizing the crosstalk between the virus and the host factor guanylate-binding protein 1 (GBP1). We observe that the amount of GBP1 is elevated upon infection, although number of transcripts is decreased, which is explained by a prolonged protein half-life. Modulation of GBP1 levels via overexpression significantly inhibits the viral life cycle. Use of various GBP-1 mutants revealed that the antiviral effect of GBP-1 on HEV is independent from the GTPase-activity, but depends on the capacity of GBP-1 to form GBP1 homodimers. This connects GBP-1 to the autophagosomal pathway. Indeed, dimerization competent GBP1 targets the viral capsid protein to the lysosomal compartment leading to inactivation of the viral particle. Most importantly, silencing of GBP1 abolishes the antiviral effect of IFNγ on HEV. In IFNγ treated cells the virus is targeted to lysosomal structures and destroyed therein. This process depends in part on GBP1. These observations about the relevance of GBP1 for type II interferon-mediated innate immunity against HEV could be a base for tailoring novel antivirals and improvement of disease management.IMPORTANCE Although HEV represents a worldwide public health problem with 20 million infections and 44.000 death cases per year, there are still no specific antivirals available and many aspects of the viral life cycle are not well understood. Here we identify the guanylate binding protein 1 (GBP1) as a restriction factor affecting life cycle of HEV. Surprisingly, the antiviral effect of GBP1 does not depend on its GTPase function, but on its capacity to homodimerize. We revealed that GBP1 exerts its antiviral activity by targeting HEV to the lysosomal compartment where the virus is inactivated. Most importantly, we observed that the antiviral effect of interferon-γ on HEV strongly depends on GBP1. Our observation that GBP1 impairs HEV and is crucial for the antiviral effect of interferons on HEV extends understanding of host defense-mechanisms. As the interferon-system represents a universal defense-mechanism, our study could help to design novel antivirals targeting.
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Glitscher M, Martín DH, Woytinek K, Schmidt B, Tabari D, Scholl C, Stingl JC, Seelow E, Choi M, Hildt E. Targeting Cholesterol Metabolism as Efficient Antiviral Strategy Against the Hepatitis E Virus. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 12:159-180. [PMID: 33601063 PMCID: PMC8099564 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The Hepatitis E virus hijacks the endosomal system for its release. These structures are highly dependent on cholesterol. Hence, this study investigates the impact of HEV on cholesterol-metabolism, the effect of intracellular cholesterol content on HEV-release and the potential of cholesterol-modulators to serve as antivirals. METHODS Intracellular cholesterol-content of cells was modulated and impacts on HEV were monitored using qPCR, Western blot, microscopy, virus-titration and density-gradient centrifugation. Blood-lipids and HEV-RNA were routinely quantified in chronically infected patients during follow-up visits. RESULTS In HEV-infected cells, decreased levels of cholesterol are found. In patients, HEV infection decreases serum-lipid concentrations. Importantly, statin treatment herein increases viral titers. Similarly, reduction of intracellular cholesterol via simvastatin treatment increases viral release in vitro. On the contrary, elevating intracellular cholesterol via LDL or 25-hydroxycholesterol strongly reduces viral release due to enhanced lysosomal degradation of HEV. Drug-induced elevation of intracellular cholesterol via fenofibrate or PSC833 impairs HEV release via the same mechanism. CONCLUSIONS This study analyses the crosstalk between HEV and intracellular cholesterol. The results highlight the importance of an intact cholesterol homeostasis for HEV-release and thereby identify a potential target for antiviral strategies. Especially fenofibrate is considered a promising novel antiviral against HEV. Beyond this, the study may help clinicians evaluating co-treatments of HEV-infected patients with statins, as this may be counter indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Denna Tabari
- Research Division, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, Bonn, Germany
| | - Catharina Scholl
- Research Division, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, Bonn, Germany
| | - Julia C. Stingl
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital of RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Evelyn Seelow
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mira Choi
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eberhard Hildt
- Department Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany,Correspondence Address requests for correspondence to Eberhard Hildt, Department Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany. fax: +49610377772140.
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Advances in Hepatitis E Virus Biology and Pathogenesis. Viruses 2021; 13:v13020267. [PMID: 33572257 PMCID: PMC7915517 DOI: 10.3390/v13020267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the causative agents for liver inflammation across the world. HEV is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus. Human HEV strains mainly belong to four major genotypes in the genus Orthohepevirus A, family Hepeviridae. Among the four genotypes, genotype 1 and 2 are obligate human pathogens, and genotype 3 and 4 cause zoonotic infections. HEV infection with genotype 1 and 2 mainly presents as acute and self-limiting hepatitis in young adults. However, HEV infection of pregnant women with genotype 1 strains can be exacerbated to fulminant hepatitis, resulting in a high rate of case fatality. As pregnant women maintain the balance of maternal-fetal tolerance and effective immunity against invading pathogens, HEV infection with genotype 1 might dysregulate the balance and cause the adverse outcome. Furthermore, HEV infection with genotype 3 can be chronic in immunocompromised patients, with rapid progression, which has been a challenge since it was reported years ago. The virus has a complex interaction with the host cells in downregulating antiviral factors and recruiting elements to generate a conducive environment of replication. The virus-cell interactions at an early stage might determine the consequence of the infection. In this review, advances in HEV virology, viral life cycle, viral interference with the immune response, and the pathogenesis in pregnant women are discussed, and perspectives on these aspects are presented.
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Meester M, Tobias TJ, Bouwknegt M, Kusters NE, Stegeman JA, van der Poel WHM. Infection dynamics and persistence of hepatitis E virus on pig farms - a review. Porcine Health Manag 2021; 7:16. [PMID: 33546777 PMCID: PMC7863251 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-021-00189-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 and 4 is a zoonosis that causes hepatitis in humans. Humans can become infected by consumption of pork or contact with pigs. Pigs are the main reservoir of the virus worldwide and the virus is present on most pig farms. Main body Though HEV is present on most farms, the proportion of infected pigs at slaughter and thus the level of exposure to consumers differs between farms and countries. Understanding the cause of that difference is necessary to install effective measures to lower HEV in pigs at slaughter. Here, HEV studies are reviewed that include infection dynamics of HEV in pigs and on farms, risk factors for HEV farm prevalence, and that describe mechanisms and sources that could generate persistence on farms. Most pigs become infected after maternal immunity has waned, at the end of the nursing or beginning of the fattening phase. Risk factors increasing the likelihood of a high farm prevalence or proportion of actively infected slaughter pigs comprise of factors such as farm demographics, internal and external biosecurity and immunomodulating coinfections. On-farm persistence of HEV is plausible, because of a high transmission rate and a constant influx of susceptible pigs. Environmental sources of HEV that enhance persistence are contaminated manure storages, water and fomites. Conclusion As HEV is persistently present on most pig farms, current risk mitigation should focus on lowering transmission within farms, especially between farm compartments. Yet, one should be aware of the paradox of increasing the proportion of actively infected pigs at slaughter by reducing transmission insufficiently. Vaccination of pigs may aid HEV control in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Meester
- Farm Animal Health unit, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - T J Tobias
- Farm Animal Health unit, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - N E Kusters
- Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - J A Stegeman
- Farm Animal Health unit, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Terrault NA, Levy MT, Cheung KW, Jourdain G. Viral hepatitis and pregnancy. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 18:117-130. [PMID: 33046891 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-020-00361-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The management of viral hepatitis in the setting of pregnancy requires special consideration. There are five liver-specific viruses (hepatitis A, B, C, D, E), each with unique epidemiology, tendency to chronicity, risk of liver complications and response to antiviral therapies. In the setting of pregnancy, the liver health of the mother, the influence of pregnancy on the clinical course of the viral infection and the effect of the virus or liver disease on the developing infant must be considered. Although all hepatitis viruses can harm the mother and the child, the greatest risk to maternal health and subsequently the fetus is seen with acute hepatitis A virus or hepatitis E virus infection during pregnancy. By contrast, the primary risks for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis D virus are related to the severity of the underlying liver disease in the mother and the risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) for HBV and HCV. The prevention of MTCT is key to reducing the global burden of chronic viral hepatitis, and prevention strategies must take into consideration local health-care and socioeconomic challenges. This Review presents the epidemiology of acute and chronic viral hepatitis infection in pregnancy, the effect of pregnancy on the course of viral infection and, conversely, the influence of the viral infection on maternal and infant outcomes, including MTCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norah A Terrault
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Miriam T Levy
- Department of Gastroenterology and Liver, Liverpool Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ka Wang Cheung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Gonzague Jourdain
- French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), Marseille, France.,Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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49
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Talapko J, Meštrović T, Pustijanac E, Škrlec I. Towards the Improved Accuracy of Hepatitis E Diagnosis in Vulnerable and Target Groups: A Global Perspective on the Current State of Knowledge and the Implications for Practice. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9020133. [PMID: 33572764 PMCID: PMC7912707 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9020133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a positive single-stranded, icosahedral, quasi-enveloped RNA virus in the genus Orthohepevirus of the family Hepeviridae. Orthohepevirus A is the most numerous species of the genus Orthohepevirus and consists of eight different HEV genotypes that can cause infection in humans. HEV is a pathogen transmitted via the fecal-oral route, most commonly by consuming fecally contaminated water. A particular danger is the HEV-1 genotype, which poses a very high risk of vertical transmission from the mother to the fetus. Several outbreaks caused by this genotype have been reported, resulting in many premature births, abortions, and also neonatal and maternal deaths. Genotype 3 is more prevalent in Europe; however, due to the openness of the market, i.e., trade-in animals which represent a natural reservoir of HEV (such as pigs), there is a possibility of spreading HEV infections outside endemic areas. This problem is indeed global and requires increased hygiene measures in endemic areas, which entails special care for pregnant women in both endemic and non-endemic regions. As already highlighted, pregnant women could have significant health consequences due to the untimely diagnosis of HEV infection; hence, this is a population that should be targeted with a specific combination of testing approaches to ensure optimal specificity and sensitivity. Until we advance from predominantly supportive treatment in pregnancy and appraise the safety and efficacy of a HEV vaccine in this population, such screening approaches represent the mainstay of our public health endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasminka Talapko
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia;
| | - Tomislav Meštrović
- University Centre Varaždin, University North, HR-42000 Varaždin, Croatia;
- Clinical Microbiology and Parasitology Unit, Dr. Zora Profozić Polyclinic, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Emina Pustijanac
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, HR-52100 Pula, Croatia;
| | - Ivana Škrlec
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia;
- Correspondence:
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50
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El-Mokhtar MA, Sayed IM. Model systems for studying extrahepatic pathogenesis of hepatitis E virus. Current knowledge and future directions. Rev Med Virol 2021; 31:e2218. [PMID: 33475223 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E Virus is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis globally. HEV infection is endemic in developing countries. Also, autochthonous and sporadic cases are reported in developed countries. HEV causes acute and chronic infections. Besides, extrahepatic manifestations including neurological, renal, haematological, acute pancreatitis and complications during pregnancy are associated with HEV infections. The pathogenesis of HEV in the extrahepatic tissues is either due to direct cytopathic effect mediated by the virus replication, or immunological mechanisms caused by an uncontrollable host response. Researchers have used different in vivo and in vitro models to study the pathogenesis of HEV in the extrahepatic tissues and analyse the host immune response against HEV infection. This review highlights the extrahepatic disorders associated with HEV infection. We focused on the in vivo and in vitro models as a tool for elucidating the HEV infection beyond the liver and studying the mechanisms of HEV induced tissue damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A El-Mokhtar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.,Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sphinx University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim M Sayed
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego La Jolla, California, USA
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