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Qazi Arisar FA, Varghese R, Chen S, Xu W, Selzner M, McGilvray I, Sayed B, Reichman T, Shwaartz C, Cattral M, Ghanekar A, Sapisochin G, Jaeckel E, Tsien C, Selzner N, Lilly L, Bhat M. Trajectories of patients relisted for liver transplantation. Ann Hepatol 2024; 29:101168. [PMID: 37858675 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2023.101168] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Recurrent cirrhosis complicates 10-30% of Liver transplants (LT) and can lead to consideration for re-transplantation. We evaluated the trajectories of relisted versus primary listed patients on the waitlist using a competing risk framework. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively examined 1,912 patients listed for LT at our centre between from 2012 to 2020. Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess overall survival (OS) by listing type and competing risk analysis Fine-Gray models were used to assess cumulative incidence of transplant by listing type. RESULTS 1,731 patients were included (104 relisted). 44.2% of relisted patients received exception points vs. 19.8% of primary listed patients (p<0.001). Patients relisted without exceptions, representing those with graft cirrhosis, had the worst OS (HR: 4.17, 95%CI 2.63 - 6.67, p=<0.0001) and lowest instantaneous rate of transplant (HR: 0.56, 95%CI 0.38 - 0.83, p=0.006) than primary listed with exception points. On multivariate analysis listing type, height, bilirubin and INR were associated with cumulative incidence of transplant, while listing type, bilirubin, INR, sodium, creatinine were associated with OS. Within relisted patients, there was a trend towards higher mortality (HR: 1.79, 95%CI 0.91 - 3.52, p=0.08) and low transplant incidence (HR: 0.51, 95%CI 0.22 - 1.15, p=0.07) for graft cirrhosis vs other relisting indications. CONCLUSIONS Patients relisted for LT are carefully curated and comprise a minority of the waitlist population. Despite their younger age, they have worse liver/kidney function, poor waitlist survival, and decreased transplant incidence suggesting the need for early relisting, while considering standardized exception points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fakhar Ali Qazi Arisar
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Rhea Varghese
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, 1280 Main St W, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Shiyi Chen
- University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada; Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, 620 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada
| | - Wei Xu
- University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada; Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, 620 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 155 College St Room 500, Toronto, M5T 3M7 Canada
| | - Markus Selzner
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Ian McGilvray
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Blayne Sayed
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Trevor Reichman
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Chaya Shwaartz
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Mark Cattral
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Anand Ghanekar
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Gonzalo Sapisochin
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Cynthia Tsien
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Nazia Selzner
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Leslie Lilly
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- University Health Network, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 2N2, Canada; University of Toronto, 27 King's College Clr, Toronto, M5S 1A1, Canada; Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, 200 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, M5G 2C4, Canada.
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Rabindranath M, Zaya R, Prayitno K, Orchanian-Cheff A, Patel K, Jaeckel E, Bhat M. A Comprehensive Review of Liver Allograft Fibrosis and Steatosis: From Cause to Diagnosis. Transplant Direct 2023; 9:e1547. [PMID: 37854023 PMCID: PMC10581596 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in posttransplant care, long-term outcomes for liver transplant recipients remain unchanged. Approximately 25% of recipients will advance to graft cirrhosis and require retransplantation. Graft fibrosis progresses in the context of de novo or recurrent disease. Recurrent hepatitis C virus infection was previously the most important cause of graft failure but is now curable in the majority of patients. However, with an increasing prevalence of obesity and diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease as the most rapidly increasing indication for liver transplantation, metabolic dysfunction-associated liver injury is anticipated to become an important cause of graft fibrosis alongside alloimmune hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease. To better understand the landscape of the graft fibrosis literature, we summarize the associated epidemiology, cause, potential mechanisms, diagnosis, and complications. We additionally highlight the need for better noninvasive methods to ameliorate the management of graft fibrosis. Some examples include leveraging the microbiome, genetic, and machine learning methods to address these limitations. Overall, graft fibrosis is routinely seen by transplant clinicians, but it requires a better understanding of its underlying biology and contributors that can help inform diagnostic and therapeutic practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhumitha Rabindranath
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rita Zaya
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Khairunnadiya Prayitno
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ani Orchanian-Cheff
- Library and Information Services, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Keyur Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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3
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Karsdal MA, Hallsworth K, Scragg J, Leeming DJ, Villesen IF, Avery L, Haigh L, Govaere O, Wichmann S, Taylor G, Cassidy S, McPherson S, Anstee QM. Serum levels of fibrogenesis biomarkers reveal distinct endotypes predictive of response to weight loss in advanced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0254. [PMID: 37756043 PMCID: PMC10531192 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND NAFLD is associated with activation of fibroblasts and hepatic fibrosis. Substantial patient heterogeneity exists, so it remains challenging to risk-stratify patients. We hypothesized that the amount of fibroblast activity, as assessed by circulating biomarkers of collagen formation, can define a "high-risk, high-fibrogenesis" patient endotype that exhibits greater fibroblast activity and potentially more progressive disease, and this endotype may be more amendable to dietary intervention. METHODS Patients with clinically confirmed advanced NAFLD were prescribed a very low-calorie diet (VLCD) intervention (∼800 kcal/d) to induce weight loss, achieved using total diet replacement. Serum markers of type III (PRO-C3) and IV collagen (PRO-C4) fibrogenesis were assessed at baseline every second week until the end of the VLCD, and 4 weeks post-VLCD and at 9 months follow-up. RESULTS Twenty-six subjects had a mean weight loss of 9.7% with VLCD. This was associated with significant improvements in liver biochemistry. When stratified by baseline PRO-C3 and PRO-C4 into distinct fibrosis endotypes, these predicted substantial differences in collagen fibrogenesis marker dynamics in response to VLCD. Patients in the high activity group (PRO-C3 >11.4 ng/mL and/or PRO-C4 >236.5 ng/mL) exhibited a marked reduction of collagen fibrogenesis, ranging from a 40%-55% decrease in PRO-C3 and PRO-C4, while fibrogenesis remained unchanged in the low activity group. The biochemical response to weight loss was substantially greater in patients a priori exhibiting a high fibroblast activity endotype in contrast to patients with low activity. CONCLUSIONS Thus, the likelihood of treatment response may be predicted at baseline by quantification of fibrogenesis biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Hallsworth
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jadine Scragg
- Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Ida F. Villesen
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Leah Avery
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laura Haigh
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Olivier Govaere
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sarah Wichmann
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Guy Taylor
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sophie Cassidy
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Stuart McPherson
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Quentin M. Anstee
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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4
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Merola J, Emond JC, Levitsky J. Novel Noninvasive Biomarkers in Liver Transplantation: A Tool on the Doorstep of Clinical Utilization. Transplantation 2023; 107:2120-2125. [PMID: 37019173 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Biomarkers have the potential to transform the detection, treatment, and outcomes of liver transplant complications, though their application is limited because of the lack of prospective validation. Although many genetic, proteomic, and immune markers correlating with allograft rejection and graft dysfunction have been described, evaluation of these markers in combination and validation among a broad liver transplant recipient population remain understudied. In this review, we present evidence supporting biomarker applications in 5 clinical liver transplant scenarios: (i) diagnosis of allograft rejection, (ii) prediction of allograft rejection, (iii) minimization of immunosuppression, (iv) detection of fibrosis and recurrent disease, and (v) prediction of renal recovery following liver transplantation. Current limitations for biomarker utilization and opportunities for further investigation are discussed. Accurate risk assessment, diagnosis, and evaluation of treatment responses using such noninvasive tools will pave the way for a more personalized and precise approach to management of the liver transplant patients that has profound potential to reduce morbidity and improve graft and patient longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Merola
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Jean C Emond
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Josh Levitsky
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
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Nielsen MJ, Dolman GE, Harris R, Frederiksen P, Chalmers J, Grove JI, Irving WL, Karsdal MA, Patel K, Leeming DJ, Guha IN. PRO-C3 is a predictor of clinical outcomes in distinct cohorts of patients with advanced liver disease. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100743. [PMID: 37284140 PMCID: PMC10240276 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Fibroblast activity is a key feature of fibrosis progression and organ function loss, leading to liver-related complications and mortality. The fibrogenesis marker, PRO-C3, has been shown to have prognostic significance in relation to fibrosis progression and as a treatment efficacy marker. We investigated whether PRO-C3 was prognostic for clinical outcome and mortality in two distinct cohorts of compensated cirrhosis. Methods Cohort 1 was a rapid fibrosis progression cohort including 104 patients with HCV and biopsy-proven Ishak fibrosis stage ≥3 without prior clinical events. Cohort 2 was a prospective cohort including 172 patients with compensated cirrhosis of mixed aetiology. Patients were assessed for clinical outcomes. PRO-C3 was assessed in serum at baseline in cohorts 1 and 2, and compared with model for end-stage liver disease and albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) scores. Results In cohort 1, a 2-fold increase in PRO-C3 was associated with 2.7-fold increased hazard of liver-related events (95% CI 1.6-4.6), whereas a one unit increase in ALBI score was associated with a 6.5-fold increased hazard (95% CI 2.9-14.6). In cohort 2, a 2-fold increase in PRO-C3 was associated with a 2.7-fold increased hazard (95% CI 1.8-3.9), whereas a one unit increase in ALBI score was associated with a 6.3-fold increased hazard (95% CI 3.0-13.2). A multivariable Cox regression analysis identified PRO-C3 and ALBI as being independently associated with the hazard of liver-related outcomes. Conclusions PRO-C3 and ALBI were independent prognostic factors for predicting liver-related clinical outcomes. Understanding the dynamic range of PRO-C3 might enhance its use for both drug development and clinical practice. Impact and Implications We tested novel proteins of liver scarring (PRO-C3) in two groups of liver patients with advanced disease to see if they could predict clinical events. We found that this marker and an established test called ALBI were both independently associated with future liver-related clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Grace E. Dolman
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Rebecca Harris
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Jane Chalmers
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jane I. Grove
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - William L. Irving
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Keyur Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Toronto Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Indra Neil Guha
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Engel B, Falk Villesen I, Fisker Nielsen MJ, Karsdal M, Taubert R, Jaeckel E, Leeming DJ. Quantification of extracellular matrix remodeling for the non-invasive identification of graft fibrosis after liver transplantation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6103. [PMID: 37055472 PMCID: PMC10101979 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33100-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Detecting patients with early post-transplant fibrosis after liver transplantation (LT) is very important. Non-invasive tests are needed to avoid liver biopsies. We aimed to detect fibrosis in liver transplant recipients (LTR) using extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling biomarkers. ECM biomarkers for type III (PRO-C3), IV (PRO-C4), VI (PRO-C6) and XVIII (PRO-C18L) collagen formation and type IV collagen degradation (C4M) were measured by ELISA in prospectively collected, cryopreserved plasma samples (n = 100) of LTR with paired liver biopsies from a protocol biopsy program. Fibrosis ≥ F2 was present in 29% of patients (median 44 months post-LT). APRI and FIB-4 neither identified significant fibrosis nor were correlated with histopathological fibrosis scores, while ECM biomarkers (AUCs 0.67-0.74) did. The median levels of PRO-C3 (15.7 vs. 11.6 ng/ml; p = 0.002) and C4M (22.9 vs. 11.6 ng/ml; p = 0.006) levels were elevated in T-cell-mediated rejection compared to normal graft function. The median levels of PRO-C4 (178.9 vs. 151.8 ng/ml; p = 0.009) and C4M (18.9 vs. 16.8 ng/ml; p = 0.004) levels were increased if donor-specific antibodies were present. PRO-C6 had the highest sensitivity (100%), NPV (100%) and negative likelihood-ratio (0) for graft fibrosis. To conclude, ECM biomarkers are helpful in identifying patients at risk of relevant graft fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Engel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
| | | | | | - Morten Karsdal
- Biomarkers and Research, Nordic Bioscience, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Richard Taubert
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, Toronto General Hospital, United Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Lønsmann I, Steen Pedersen J, Krag A, Hansen T, Karsdal M, Julie Leeming D, Juul Nielsen M, Bendtsen F. Biomarkers reflecting pericellular fibrosis improve together with liver histology after bariatric surgery in early non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Clin Biochem 2023; 113:29-35. [PMID: 36574896 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2022.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM Non-invasive tests for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are needed for assessing disease stage, prognosis and treatment efficacy. Extracellular matrix biomarkers, such as PRO-C3, are useful as biomarkers of advanced liver fibrosis. However, non-invasive biomarkers of early-stage NAFLD, characterized by pericellular fibrosis, are lacking. Here, we measured serological biomarkers of type IV and VIII collagens reflecting the remodeling of the pericellular basement membrane to explore the effect of bariatric surgery on pericellular fibrosis in patients with early NAFLD. METHODS Seventy patients with severe obesity underwent bariatric surgery. The cohort consisted of 61 % females who had a mean age of 44. Patients had a median NAFLD activity score of 3 and mild-to-moderate fibrosis F0 (3 %), F1 (86 %), and F2 (11 %). Blood samples were taken at baseline, three, six and 12 months after surgery. At 12 months, 40 patients had a follow-up liver biopsy. The biomarkers PRO-C3, PRO-C4, C4M, and PRO-C8 were measured using indirect competitive ELISAs. RESULTS Twelve months after surgery patients had significantly lower levels of ALT, GGT, HbA1c, fasting glucose, and CRP. The pericellular fibrosis biomarkers, C4M, PRO-C4, and PRO-C8 decreased by 24 %, 18 % and 44 %, respectively (p < 0.0001), while the interstitial matrix fibrosis marker PRO-C3 remained unchanged. Furthermore, baseline C4M was associated with histologically assessed hepatocyte ballooning and lobular inflammation in patients with (p = 0.032) and without (p = 0.032) steatosis, respectively. CONCLUSION Biomarkers of pericellular fibrosis decrease in early-stage NAFLD after patients undergo bariatric surgery and potentially reflect an improvement in liver histology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Lønsmann
- Nordic Bioscience A/S, Herlev, Denmark; University of Southern Denmark, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Research, Odense, Denmark.
| | | | - Aleksander Krag
- University of Southern Denmark, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Research, Odense, Denmark; Odense University Hospital, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Torben Hansen
- University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | - Flemming Bendtsen
- Hvidovre Hospital, Gastrounit, Hvidovre, Denmark; University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Altinbas A, Holmes JA, Salloum S, Lidofsky A, Alatrakchi N, Somsouk M, Hunt P, Deeks S, Chew KW, Lauer G, Kruger A, Lin W, Chung RT. LOXL-2 and TNC-C are markers of liver fibrogenesis in HCV/HIV-, HIV- and HCV-infected patients. Biomark Med 2022; 16:839-846. [PMID: 35786977 PMCID: PMC9437769 DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2021-0596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Lysil oxidase like enzyme-2 (LOXL-2) and TNC-C play important roles in organ fibrosis. We assessed circulating LOXL-2 and TNC-C levels and their relationship to fibrosis severity in HIV- and/or HCV-infected individuals. Methods: Healthy controls (n = 22), HIV mono- (n = 15), HCV mono- (n = 52) and HCV/HIV-co-infected (n = 92) subjects were included. Results: LOXL-2 and TNC-C levels were significantly higher in HCV mono- and HCV/HIV-co-infected individuals with F0 compared to healthy controls. In addition, in HCV/HIV-co-infected individuals, LOXL-2 levels were higher in intermediate fibrosis compared to no/mild fibrosis. Conclusion: In HCV/HIV-co-infected study participants, both LOXL-2 and TNC-C were significantly higher in intermediate fibrosis compared to no/mild fibrosis, but did not further increase with advanced fibrosis. Furthermore, both markers were elevated among HCV/HIV-positive individuals with mild/no fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akif Altinbas
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jacinta A Holmes
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Shadi Salloum
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Anna Lidofsky
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Nadia Alatrakchi
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ma Somsouk
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Peter Hunt
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Steven Deeks
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Kara W Chew
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Georg Lauer
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Annie Kruger
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Wenyu Lin
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Raymond T Chung
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Wei RL, Fan GH, Zhang CZ, Chen KC, Zhang WH, Li CB, Dong SY, Chen JL, Ling SB, Zheng SS, Xu X. Prognostic implication of early posttransplant hypercholesterolemia in liver transplantation for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2022; 22:228-238. [PMID: 35613994 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperlipidemia is a common complication after liver transplantation (LT) and develops mostly in the early posttransplant period. Recently, some studies have reported a positive correlation between hyperlipidemia and favorable prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing hepatectomy. This study aimed to evaluate the possibility of predicting prognosis in HCC patients receiving LT by early posttransplant dyslipidemia. METHODS From January 2015 to December 2017, a total of 806 HCC patients from China Liver Transplant Registry database were retrospectively enrolled. The prognostic relevance of early posttransplant hypertriglyceridemia or hypercholesterolemia was examined using survival analysis, and subgroup analysis was implemented based on LT criteria. RESULTS Early posttransplant hypercholesterolemia (EPHC) was independently inversely associated with the risk of recurrence [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.630; P = 0.022], but was not significantly correlated with the mortality. However, early posttransplant hypertriglyceridemia was not related to prognosis. Intriguingly, with further classification, we found that borderline EPHC (B-EPHC), instead of significant EPHC, was a predictor of lower risk for both recurrence (HR = 0.504; P = 0.006) and mortality (HR = 0.511; P = 0.023). Compared with non-EPHC patients, B-EPHC patients achieved significantly superior 1-year and 3-year tumor-free survival (89.6% and 83.7% vs. 83.8% and 72.7% respectively; P = 0.023), and 1-year and 3-year overall survival (95.8% and 84.8% vs. 94.6% and 77.6% respectively; P = 0.039). In the subgroup analysis, B-EPHC remained an independent predictor of better prognosis in patients beyond Milan criteria and those within Hangzhou criteria; whereas there was no significant relationship between B-EPHC and prognosis in patients within Milan criteria and those beyond Hangzhou criteria. More interestingly, patients beyond Milan criteria but within Hangzhou criteria were identified as the crucial subpopulation who benefited from B-EPHC (recurrence HR = 0.306, P = 0.011; mortality HR = 0.325, P = 0.031). CONCLUSIONS B-EPHC could assist transplant teams in dynamically evaluating prognosis after LT for HCC as a postoperative non-oncological biomarker, especially in patients beyond Milan criteria but within Hangzhou criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Li Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Guang-Han Fan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen-Zhi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Kang-Chen Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Wen-Hui Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chang-Biao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Si-Yi Dong
- National Center for Healthcare Quality Management in Liver Transplant, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jun-Li Chen
- National Center for Healthcare Quality Management in Liver Transplant, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Sun-Bin Ling
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shu-Sen Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China; National Center for Healthcare Quality Management in Liver Transplant, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Center for Integrated Oncology and Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Institute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China; National Center for Healthcare Quality Management in Liver Transplant, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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10
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The matrisome and adhesome comprise proteins that are found within or are associated with the extracellular matrix (ECM) and adhesion complexes, respectively. Interactions between cells and their microenvironment are mediated by key matrisome and adhesome proteins, which direct fundamental processes, including growth and development. Due to their underlying complexity, it has historically been challenging to undertake mass spectrometry (MS)-based profiling of these proteins. New developments in sample preparative workflows, informatics databases, and MS techniques have enabled in-depth proteomic characterization of the matrisome and adhesome, resulting in a comprehensive understanding of the interactomes, and cellular signaling that occur at the cell-ECM interface. AREA COVERED This review summarizes recent advances in proteomic characterization of the matrisome and adhesome. It focuses on the importance of curated databases and discusses key strengths and limitations of different workflows. EXPERT OPINION MS-based proteomics has shown promise in characterizing the matrisome and topology of adhesome networks in health and disease. Moving forward, it will be important to incorporate integrative analysis to define the bidirectional signaling between the matrisome and adhesome, and adopt new methods for post-translational modification and in vivo analyses to better dissect the critical roles that these proteins play in human pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Krasny
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul H Huang
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Karsdal MA, Genovese F, Rasmussen DGK, Bay-Jensen AC, Mortensen JH, Holm Nielsen S, Willumsen N, Jensen C, Manon-Jensen T, Jennings L, Reese-Petersen AL, Henriksen K, Sand JM, Bager C, Leeming DJ. Considerations for understanding protein measurements: Identification of formation, degradation and more pathological relevant epitopes. Clin Biochem 2021; 97:11-24. [PMID: 34453894 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is a need for precision medicine and an unspoken promise of an optimal approach for identification of the right patients for value-based medicine based on big data. However, there may be a misconception that measurement of proteins is more valuable than measurement of fewer selected biomarkers. In population-based research, variation may be somewhat eliminated by quantity. However, this fascination of numbers may limit the attention to and understanding of the single. This review highlights that protein measurements (with collagens as examples) may mean different things depending on the targeted epitope - formation or degradation of tissues, and even signaling potential of proteins. DESIGN AND METHODS PubMed was searched for collagen, neo-epitope, biomarkers. RESULTS Ample examples of assays with specific epitopes, either pathological such as HbA1c, or domain specific such as pro-peptides, which total protein arrays would not have identified were evident. CONCLUSIONS We suggest that big data may be considered as the funnel of data points, in which most important parameters will be selected. If the technical precision is low or the biological accuracy is limited, and we include suboptimal quality of biomarkers, disguised as big data, we may not be able to fulfill the promise of helping patients searching for the optimal treatment. Alternatively, if the technical precision of the total protein quantification is high, but we miss the functional domains with the most considerable biological meaning, we miss the most important and valuable information of a given protein. This review highlights that measurements of the same protein in different ways may provide completely different meanings. We need to understand the pathological importance of each epitope quantified to maximize protein measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Karsdal
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark.
| | - F Genovese
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - D G K Rasmussen
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - A C Bay-Jensen
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - J H Mortensen
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - S Holm Nielsen
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - N Willumsen
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - C Jensen
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - T Manon-Jensen
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | | | - K Henriksen
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - J M Sand
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - C Bager
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - D J Leeming
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
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12
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Basement membrane collagen IV deficiency promotes abdominal aortic aneurysm formation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12903. [PMID: 34145342 PMCID: PMC8213747 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92303-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex disease which is incompletely accounted for. Basement membrane (BM) Collagen IV (COL4A1/A2) is abundant in the artery wall, and several lines of evidence indicate a protective role of baseline COL4A1/A2 in AAA development. Using Col4a1/a2 hemizygous knockout mice (Col4a1/a2+/-, 129Svj background) we show that partial Col4a1/a2 deficiency augmented AAA formation. Although unchallenged aortas were morphometrically and biomechanically unaffected by genotype, explorative proteomic analyses of aortas revealed a clear reduction in BM components and contractile vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proteins, suggesting a central effect of the BM in maintaining VSMCs in the contractile phenotype. These findings were translated to human arteries by showing that COL4A1/A2 correlated to BM proteins and VSMC markers in non-lesioned internal mammary arteries obtained from coronary artery bypass procedures. Moreover, in human AAA tissue, MYH11 (VSMC marker) was depleted in areas of reduced COL4 as assessed by immunohistochemistry. Finally, circulating COL4A1 degradation fragments correlated with AAA progression in the largest Danish AAA cohort, suggesting COL4A1/A2 proteolysis to be an important feature of AAA formation. In sum, we identify COL4A1/A2 as a critical regulator of VSMC phenotype and a protective factor in AAA formation.
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13
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Feng G, Zheng KI, Li YY, Rios RS, Zhu PW, Pan XY, Li G, Ma HL, Tang LJ, Byrne CD, Targher G, He N, Mi M, Chen YP, Zheng MH. Machine learning algorithm outperforms fibrosis markers in predicting significant fibrosis in biopsy-confirmed NAFLD. JOURNAL OF HEPATO-BILIARY-PANCREATIC SCIENCES 2021; 28:593-603. [PMID: 33908180 DOI: 10.1002/jhbp.972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of significant liver fibrosis is a key determinant of long-term prognosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to develop a novel machine learning algorithm (MLA) to predict fibrosis severity in NAFLD and compared it with the most widely used non-invasive fibrosis biomarkers. METHODS We used a cohort of 553 adults with biopsy-proven NAFLD, who were randomly divided into a training cohort (n = 278) for the development of both logistic regression model (LRM) and MLA, and a validation cohort (n = 275). Significant fibrosis was defined as fibrosis stage F ≥ 2. MLA and LRM were derived from variables that were selected using a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression algorithm. RESULTS In the training cohort, the variables selected by LASSO algorithm were body mass index, pro-collagen type III, collagen type IV, aspartate aminotransferase and albumin-to-globulin ratio. The diagnostic accuracy of MLA showed the highest values of area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC: 0.902, 95% CI 0.869-0.904) for identifying fibrosis F ≥ 2. The LRM AUROC was 0.764, 95% CI 0.710-0.816 and significantly better than the AST-to-Platelet ratio (AUROC 0.684, 95% CI 0.605-0.762), FIB-4 score (AUROC 0.594, 95% CI 0.503-0.685) and NAFLD Fibrosis Score (AUROC 0.557, 95% CI 0.470-0.644). In the validation cohort, MLA also showed the highest AUROC (0.893, 95% CI 0.864-0.901). The diagnostic accuracy of MLA outperformed that of LRM in all subgroups considered. CONCLUSIONS Our newly developed MLA algorithm has excellent diagnostic performance for predicting fibrosis F ≥ 2 in patients with biopsy-confirmed NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gong Feng
- Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kenneth I Zheng
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yang-Yang Li
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Rafael S Rios
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Pei-Wu Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Pan
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Gang Li
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hong-Lei Ma
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liang-Jie Tang
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Christopher D Byrne
- Southampton National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Southampton General Hospital, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Giovanni Targher
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Na He
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Man Mi
- Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yong-Ping Chen
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Institute of Hepatology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment for The Development of Chronic Liver Disease in Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ming-Hua Zheng
- NAFLD Research Center, Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Institute of Hepatology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment for The Development of Chronic Liver Disease in Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, China
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14
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van der Ploeg EA, Melgert BN, Burgess JK, Gan CT. The potential of biomarkers of fibrosis in chronic lung allograft dysfunction. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2021; 35:100626. [PMID: 33992914 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2021.100626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) is the major long-term cause of morbidity and mortality after lung transplantation. Both bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome and restrictive lung allograft syndrome, two main types of CLAD, lead to fibrosis in either the small airways or alveoli and pleura. Pathological pathways in CLAD and other types of fibrosis, for example idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, are assumed to overlap and therefore fibrosis biomarkers could aid in the early detection of CLAD. These biomarkers could help to differentiate between different phenotypes of CLAD and could, in comparison to biomarkers of inflammation, possibly distinguish an infectious event from CLAD when a decline in lung function is present. This review gives an overview of known CLAD specific biomarkers, describes new promising fibrosis biomarkers currently investigated in other types of fibrosis, and discusses the possible use of these fibrosis biomarkers for CLAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline A van der Ploeg
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, PO Box 30. 001, 9700, RB, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Barbro N Melgert
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, PO box 196, 9700, AD, Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University Medical Center Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700, RB, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Janette K Burgess
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University Medical Center Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700, RB, Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, PO Box 30.001, 9700, RB, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - C Tji Gan
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, PO Box 30. 001, 9700, RB, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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15
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Leeming DJ, Nielsen SH, Vongsuvanh R, Uchila P, Nielsen MJ, Reese-Petersen AL, van der Poorten D, Eslam M, Schuppan D, Karsdal MA, George J. Endotrophin, a pro-peptide of Type VI collagen, is a biomarker of survival in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepat Oncol 2020; 8:HEP32. [PMID: 34084451 PMCID: PMC8162185 DOI: 10.2217/hep-2020-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Type VI collagen, is emerging as a signaling collagen originating from different types of fibroblasts. A specific fragment of Type VI collagen, the pro-peptide, is also known as the hormone endotrophin. We hypothesized that this fibroblast hormone would be of particular relevance in cancer types with a high amount of fibrosis activity, namely for outcome in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cirrhotic patients. PATIENTS & METHODS Plasma C6M, PRO-C6 and alphafeto-protein (AFP) were assessed in 309 patients with mixed etiologies (hepatitis C, hepatitis B, alcohol and nonalcoholic fatty liver) diagnosed as cirrhotics, cirrhotics with HCC, noncirrhotics and healthy controls. Progression-free survival and overall survival (OS) data were collected up to 6120 days after diagnosis. The ability of each marker to predict survival was investigated. RESULTS & CONCLUSION The level of endotrophin assessed by PRO-C6 was able to separate healthy controls, noncirrhotics and cirrhotics from HCC (p < 0.05-0.0001). Both endotrophin and C6M provided value in the prediction of OS in cirrhotic patients with HCC. In the multivariate analysis for identifying HCC, in patients with high endotrophin (highest quartile) and that were positive for AFP (≥20 IU/ml), the hazard ratio for predicting OS was increased from 3.7 (p = 0.0006) to 14.4 (p = 0.0001) when comparing with AFP positive as a stand-alone marker. In conclusion, plasma levels for markers of Type VI collagen remodeling were associated with survival in cirrhotic patients with HCC. A combination of AFP with endotrophin improved the prognostic value compared with AFP alone for predicting OS in cirrhotic patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Signe Holm Nielsen
- Nordic Bioscience, Fibrosis Biology & Biomarkers, Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Roslyn Vongsuvanh
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital & University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Pruthviraj Uchila
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital & University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - David van der Poorten
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital & University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital & University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology & Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital & University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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16
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Karsdal MA, Kraus VB, Shevell D, Bay-Jensen AC, Schattenberg J, Rambabu Surabattula R, Schuppan D. Profiling and targeting connective tissue remodeling in autoimmunity - A novel paradigm for diagnosing and treating chronic diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 20:102706. [PMID: 33188918 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue (ConT) remodeling is an essential process in tissue regeneration, where a balanced replacement of old tissue by new tissue occurs. This balance is disturbed in chronic diseases, often autoimmune diseases, usually resulting in the buld up of fibrosis and a gradual loss of organ function. During progression of liver, lung, skin, heart, joint, skeletal and kidney diseasesboth ConT formation and degradation are elevated, which is tightly linked to immune cell activation and a loss of specific cell types and extracellular matrix (ECM) structures that are required for normal organ function. Here, we address the balance of key general and organ specific components of the ECM during homeostasis and in disease, with a focus on collagens, which are emerging as both structural and signaling molecules harbouring neoepitopes and autoantigens that are released during ConT remodeling. Specific collagen molecular signatures of ConT remodeling are linked to disease activity and stage, and to prognosis across different organs. These signatures accompany and further drive disease progression, and often become detectable before clinical disease manifestation (illness). Recent advances allow to quantify and define the nature of ConT remodeling via blood-based assays that measure the levels of well-defined collagen fragments, reflecting different facets of ConT formation and degradation, and associated immunological processes. These novel serum assays are becoming important tools of precision medicine, to detect various chronic and autoimmune diseases before their clinical manifestation, and to non-invasively monitor the efficacy of a broad range of pharmacological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten Asser Karsdal
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Metabolic Liver Research Program, Denmark
| | - Virginia Byers Kraus
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute and Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Diane Shevell
- Clinical Biomarkers and Immunology, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Westfield, NJ, USA
| | | | | | - R Rambabu Surabattula
- Institute of Translational Immunology and Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology and Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany; Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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17
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Meurer SK, Karsdal MA, Weiskirchen R. Advances in the clinical use of collagen as biomarker of liver fibrosis. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2020; 20:947-969. [PMID: 32865433 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2020.1814746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatic fibrosis is the excessive synthesis and deposition of extracellular matrix including collagen in the tissue. Chronic liver insult leads to progressive parenchymal damage, portal hypertension, and cirrhosis. Determination of hepatic collagen by invasive liver biopsy is the gold standard to estimate severity and stage of fibrosis. However, this procedure is associated with pain, carries the risk of infection and bleeding, and is afflicted with a high degree of sampling error. Therefore, there is urgent need for serological collagen-derived markers to assess collagen synthesis/turnover. AREAS COVERED Biochemical properties of collagens, cellular sources of hepatic collagen synthesis, and regulatory aspects in collagen expression. Markers are discussed suitable to estimate hepatic collagen synthesis and/or turnover. Discussed studies were identified through a PubMed search done in May 2020 and the authors' topic knowledge. EXPERT OPINION Hepatic fibrosis is mainly characterized by accumulation of collagen-rich scar tissue. Although traditionally performed liver biopsy is still standard in estimating hepatic fibrosis, there is evidence that noninvasive diagnostic scores and collagen-derived neo-epitopes provide clinical useful information. These noninvasive tests are less expensive than liver biopsy, better tolerated, safer, and more acceptable to patients. Therefore, these tests will lead to dramatic changes in diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen K Meurer
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen , Aachen, Germany
| | - Morten A Karsdal
- Nordic Bioscience, Fibrosis Biomarkers and Research , Herlev, Denmark
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen , Aachen, Germany
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18
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Wang H, Song T, Zhao Y, Zhao J, Wang X, Fu X. Long non-coding RNA LICPAR regulates atrial fibrosis via TGF-β/Smad pathway in atrial fibrillation. Tissue Cell 2020; 67:101440. [PMID: 32971457 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2020.101440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNA predicting cardiac remodeling (lnc LIPCAR) was implicated in several human diseases, while its role in atrial fibrillation (AF) remained poorly understood. Our study aimed to discover the role of LICPAR played in AF. Samples of atrial muscle tissues from patients diagnosed with sinus rhythm (SR) and atrial fibrillation (AF) were collected, and human atrial fibroblasts were isolated and identified under immunofluorescence staining. After Angiotensin II (Ang II, as a activator of TGF-β) stimulation with LICPAR overexpression or knockdown, the viability and proliferation of atrial fibroblasts were respectively determined using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and clone formation assay. Relative expressions of LICPAR, fibrosis- and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad2/3-pathway related proteins were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot as needed. LICPAR and TGF-β1 were upregulated and were positively correlated in atrial muscle tissues from AF. Atrial fibroblasts were identified as Vimentin positive. Further analysis indicated that Ang II enhanced the levels of LIPCAR, Smad2/3 phosphorylation and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Also, upregulating LIPCAR further promoted the promotive effects of Ang II on levels of LIPCAR, Collagen I, Collagen II, α-SMA and Smad2/3 phosphorylation, cell viability and proliferation of atrial fibroblasts, whereas silencing LIPCAR resulted in opposite effects. LICPAR regulates atrial fibrosis via modulating TGF-β/Smad pathway, which provided a potential therapeutic method for AF in clinical practice in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Hospital of HeBei Medical University, No. 215, Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Tingting Song
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Hospital of HeBei Medical University, No. 215, Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Hospital of HeBei Medical University, No. 215, Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Jiayu Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Hospital of HeBei Medical University, No. 215, Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Xun Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Hospital of HeBei Medical University, No. 215, Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Xianghua Fu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Hospital of HeBei Medical University, No. 215, Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China.
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Villesen IF, Daniels SJ, Leeming DJ, Karsdal MA, Nielsen MJ. Review article: the signalling and functional role of the extracellular matrix in the development of liver fibrosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2020; 52:85-97. [PMID: 32419162 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with liver fibrosis show a large heterogeneity, and for that reason effective treatments are still lacking. Emerging data suggest that there is more to fibrosis than previously understood. Opposed to earlier belief of being a passive scaffold for cells to reside in, the extracellular matrix (ECM) is now known to hold both signalling and functional properties important for the development of fibrosis. The interaction between the ECM and the collagen-producing cells determines the course of the disease but is still poorly understood. Exploring the dynamics of this interplay will aid in the development of effective treatments. AIM To summarise and discuss the latest advances in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis as well as key mediators of early disease progression. METHODS Through literature search using databases including PubMed and Google Scholar, manuscripts published between 1961 and 2019 were included to assess both well-established and recent theories of fibrosis development. Both pre-clinical and clinical studies were included. RESULTS Fibrosis alters the structure of the ECM releasing signalling fragments with the potential to escalate disease severity. In a diseased liver, hepatic stellate cells and other fibroblasts, together with hepatocytes and sinusoidal cells, produce an excessive amount of collagens. The cell-to-collagen interactions are unique in the different liver aetiologies, generating ECM profiles with considerable patient-monitoring potential. CONCLUSIONS The local milieu in the injured area affects the course of fibrosis development in a site-specific manner. Future research should focus on the dissimilarities in the ECM profile between different aetiologies of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Falk Villesen
- Nordic Bioscience A/S, Herlev, Denmark.,University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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