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Leighton J, Jones DEJ, Dyson JK, Cordell HJ. Network proximity analysis as a theoretical model for identifying potential novel therapies in primary sclerosing cholangitis. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:157. [PMID: 38862968 PMCID: PMC11165726 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-01927-2] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive cholestatic liver disease with no licensed therapies. Previous Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS) have identified genes that correlate significantly with PSC, and these were identified by systematic review. Here we use novel Network Proximity Analysis (NPA) methods to identify already licensed candidate drugs that may have an effect on the genetically coded aspects of PSC pathophysiology.Over 2000 agents were identified as significantly linked to genes implicated in PSC by this method. The most significant results include previously researched agents such as metronidazole, as well as biological agents such as basiliximab, abatacept and belatacept. This in silico analysis could potentially serve as a basis for developing novel clinical trials in this rare disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Leighton
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
| | - David E J Jones
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Liver Unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jessica K Dyson
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Liver Unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Heather J Cordell
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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2
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Sohal A, Kowdley KV. Novel preclinical developments of the primary sclerosing cholangitis treatment landscape. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:335-345. [PMID: 38480008 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2330738] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease associated with inflammation, fibrosis, and destruction of intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts. Despite substantial recent advances in our understanding of PSC, the only proven treatment of PSC is liver transplantation. There is an urgent unmet need to find medical therapies for this disorder. AREAS COVERED Multiple drugs are currently under evaluation as therapeutic options for this disease. This article summarizes the literature on the various novel therapeutic options that have been investigated and are currently under development for the treatment of PSC. EXPERT OPINION In the next decade, more than one drug will likely be approved for the treatment of the disease, and we will be looking at combination therapies for the optimal management of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalam Sohal
- Department of Hepatology, Liver Institute Northwest, Seattle, USA
| | - Kris V Kowdley
- Department of Hepatology, Liver Institute Northwest, Seattle, USA
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, USA
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3
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Huynh D, Rubtsov D, Khaing MM. Efficacy of Biologics in the Treatment of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Associated With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus 2024; 16:e56182. [PMID: 38487649 PMCID: PMC10939508 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis that aims to address the scarcity of research on the use of biological therapy in primary sclerosing cholangitis-inflammatory bowel disease (PSC-IBD) and the historical inadequacy of therapeutic options. Its purpose is to investigate this matter comprehensively and furnish guidance for clinical practice. Utilizing Embase, PubMed, Medline, and clinicaltrials.gov studies investigating the roles of biologics and antibiotics in PSC-IBD were identified. The systematic literature review encompassed articles published from inception through September 2023. Two independent reviewers assessed the articles, and methodological quality was gauged using Review Manager 5.4.2. Nine studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. However, only four met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis due to variability and availability of data; the remaining studies underwent descriptive analysis. Notably, infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab, and tofacitinib showed ineffectiveness in reducing cholestatic markers. This review underscores the limited impact of biological and small-molecule therapies on disease progression in PSC-IBD patients, signifying the need for further exploration and development of treatment modalities in this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Huynh
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, AUS
| | - Denis Rubtsov
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, AUS
| | - Myat Myat Khaing
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, AUS
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Wheless WH, Russo MW. Treatment of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Including Transplantation. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:171-182. [PMID: 37945158 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.07.008] [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] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a progressive cholestatic liver disease that causes stricturing of the intra and extrahepatic bile ducts that can lead to cirrhosis and end stage liver disease. Effective medical therapy has been elusive, but a course of ursodeoxycholic acid may be prescribed at doses of 17-23 mg/kg/day for up to a year to determine if a reduction in serum alkaline phosphatase is observed. A number of drugs are under investigation, including FXR agonists with choleretic and antimicrobial properties. Liver transplantation for PSC has one of the highest survival rates, but recurrent PSC is seen in up to 25% of recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Wheless
- Division of Hepatology, Atrium Health Wake Forest, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Mark W Russo
- Division of Hepatology, Atrium Health Wake Forest, Charlotte, NC, USA.
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Özdirik B, Schnabl B. Microbial Players in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Current Evidence and Concepts. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:423-438. [PMID: 38109970 PMCID: PMC10837305 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic liver disease with progressive biliary inflammation, destruction of the biliary tract, and fibrosis, resulting in liver cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. To date, liver transplantation is the only definitive treatment option for PSC. The precise etiology of PSC remains elusive, but it is widely accepted to involve a complex interplay between genetic predisposition, immunologic dysfunction, and environmental influence. In recent years, the gut-liver axis has emerged as a crucial pathway contributing to the pathogenesis of PSC, with particular focus on the role of gut microbiota. However, the role of the fungal microbiome or mycobiome has been overlooked for years, resulting in a lack of comprehensive studies on its involvement in PSC. In this review, we clarify the present clinical and mechanistic data and concepts concerning the gut bacterial and fungal microbiota in the context of PSC. This review sheds light on the role of specific microbes and elucidates the dynamics of bacterial and fungal populations. Moreover, we discuss the latest insights into microbe-altering therapeutic approaches involving the gut-liver axis and bile acid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcin Özdirik
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California; Department of Medicine, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California.
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6
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Tan N, Lubel J, Kemp W, Roberts S, Majeed A. Current Therapeutics in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1267-1281. [PMID: 37577219 PMCID: PMC10412694 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00068s] [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: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an orphan, cholestatic liver disease that is characterized by inflammatory biliary strictures with variable progression to end-stage liver disease. Its pathophysiology is poorly understood. Chronic biliary inflammation is likely driven by immune dysregulation, gut dysbiosis, and environmental exposures resulting in gut-liver crosstalk and bile acid metabolism disturbances. There is no proven medical therapy that alters disease progression in PSC, with the commonly prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid being shown to improve liver biochemistry at low-moderate doses (15-23 mg/kg/day) but not alter transplant-free survival or liver-related outcomes. Liver transplantation is the only option for patients who develop end-stage liver disease or refractory complications of PSC. Immunosuppressive and antifibrotic agents have not proven to be effective, but there is promise for manipulation of the gut microbiome with fecal microbiota transplantation and antibiotics. Bile acid manipulation via alternate synthetic bile acids such as norursodeoxycholic acid, or interaction at a transcriptional level via nuclear receptor agonists and fibrates have shown potential in phase II trials in PSC with several leading to larger phase III trials. In view of the enhanced malignancy risk, statins, and aspirin show potential for reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and cholangiocarcinoma in PSC patients. For patients who develop clinically relevant strictures with cholestatic symptoms and worsening liver function, balloon dilatation is safer compared with biliary stent insertion with equivalent clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natassia Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John Lubel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - William Kemp
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stuart Roberts
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ammar Majeed
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alfred Health; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Kim YS, Hurley EH, Park Y, Ko S. Treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis combined with inflammatory bowel disease. Intest Res 2023; 21:420-432. [PMID: 37519211 PMCID: PMC10626010 DOI: 10.5217/ir.2023.00039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive cholestatic, inflammatory, and fibrotic disease that is strongly associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). PSC-IBD represents a unique disease entity and patients with this disease have an increased risk of malignancy development, such as colorectal cancer and cholangiocarcinoma. The pathogenesis of PSC-IBD involves genetic and environmental factors such as gut dysbiosis and bile acids alteration. However, despite the advancement of disease characteristics, no effective medical therapy has proven to have a significant impact on the prognosis of PSC. The treatment options for patients with PSC-IBD do not differ from those for patients with PSC alone. Potential candidate drugs have been developed based on the pathogenesis of PSC-IBD, such as those that target modulation of bile acids, inflammation, fibrosis, and gut dysbiosis. In this review, we summarize the current medical treatments for PSC-IBD and the status of new emerging therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Sun Kim
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Edward H. Hurley
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yoojeong Park
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sungjin Ko
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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8
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Wentworth BJ, Khot R, Caldwell SH. The Many Faces of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Controversy Abounds. Dig Dis Sci 2023; 68:3514-3526. [PMID: 37358638 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-023-08003-2] [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: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is notoriously challenging to manage given its heterogeneity with regard to diagnosis, management, and progression. The lack of disease-modifying therapy and variable rate of onset of cirrhosis, portal hypertension-related decompensating events, jaundice, pruritus, biliary complications, and need for liver transplantation is deeply unsettling to clinicians and patients alike. Recent updated practice guidance by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the European Association for the Study of the Liver endeavored to highlight some of these challenges. However, these references only briefly address clinical dilemmas that providers face on a daily basis. This review aims to further discuss these controversial topics, including providing insight into the utility of ursodeoxycolic acid, the significance of alkaline phosphatase normalization, when to consider PSC variants and mimickers, and the implications of continuous hepatobiliary malignancy screening. In particular, there has been a growing body of literature raising concern about repeat exposure to gadolinium-containing contrast. Patients with PSC are potentially at risk for large lifetime exposure to gadolinium related to frequent magnetic resonance imaging scans and whether this carries any negative long-term adverse effects remains unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Wentworth
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, PO Box 800708, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA.
| | - Rachita Khot
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Stephen H Caldwell
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, PO Box 800708, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
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Assis DN, Bowlus CL. Recent Advances in the Management of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 21:2065-2075. [PMID: 37084929 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2023.04.004] [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: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by fibroinflammatory damage to the biliary tree, typically in the setting of inflammatory bowel disease, with an increased risk of liver failure and cholangiocarcinoma. A complex pathophysiology, heterogeneity in clinical features, and the rare nature of the disease have contributed to the lack of effective therapy to date. However, recent innovations in the characterization and prognostication of patients with PSC, in addition to new tools for medical management and emerging pharmacologic agents, give rise to the potential for meaningful progress in the next several years. This review summarizes current concepts in PSC and highlights particular areas in need of further study.
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Méndez-Sánchez N, Coronel-Castillo CE, Ordoñez-Vázquez AL. Current Therapies for Cholestatic Diseases. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1713. [PMID: 37371808 PMCID: PMC10296345 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061713] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholestasis is a condition characterized by decrease in bile flow due to progressive pathological states that lead to chronic cholestatic liver diseases which affect the biliary tree at the intrahepatic level and extrahepatic level. They induce complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, malignancies, bone disease and nutritional deficiencies that merit close follow-up and specific interventions. Furthermore, as those conditions progress to liver cirrhosis, there will be an increase in mortality but also an important impact in quality of life and economic burden due to comorbidities related with liver failure. Therefore, it is important that clinicians understand the treatment options for cholestatic liver diseases. With a general view of therapeutic options and their molecular targets, this review addresses the pathophysiology of cholangiopathies. The objective is to provide clinicians with an overview of the safety and efficacy of the treatment of cholangiopathies based on the current evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahum Méndez-Sánchez
- Unit Liver Research, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150, Toriello Guerra, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14050, Mexico;
- Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Av. Universidad 3004, Copilco Universidad, Coyoacán, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Carlos E. Coronel-Castillo
- Internal Medicine Section, Central Military Hospital, Manuel Ávila Camacho s/n, Militar, Miguel Hidalgo, Ciudad de México 11200, Mexico;
| | - Ana L. Ordoñez-Vázquez
- Unit Liver Research, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150, Toriello Guerra, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14050, Mexico;
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Trauner M, Chung C, Sterling K, Liu X, Lu X, Xu J, Tempany-Afdhal C, Goodman ZD, Färkkilä M, Tanaka A, Trivedi P, Kowdley KV, Bowlus CL, Levy C, Myers RP. PRIMIS: design of a pivotal, randomized, phase 3 study evaluating the safety and efficacy of the nonsteroidal farnesoid X receptor agonist cilofexor in noncirrhotic patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:75. [PMID: 36922785 PMCID: PMC10015541 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-02653-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic progressive liver disease leading to biliary fibrosis and cirrhosis. Cilofexor is a nonsteroidal farnesoid X receptor agonist that demonstrated significant improvements in liver biochemistry and markers of cholestasis in patients with PSC in a phase 2 study. We describe here the rationale, design, and implementation of the phase 3 PRIMIS trial, the largest placebo-controlled trial in PSC. METHODS Adults with large-duct PSC without cirrhosis are randomized 2:1 to receive oral cilofexor 100 mg once daily or placebo for up to 96 weeks during the blinded phase. Patients completing the blinded phase are eligible to receive open-label cilofexor 100 mg daily for up to 96 weeks. The primary objective is to evaluate whether cilofexor reduces the risk of fibrosis progression compared with placebo. Liver biopsy is performed at screening and Week 96 of the blinded phase for histologic assessment of fibrosis. The primary endpoint-chosen in conjunction with guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-is the proportion of patients with ≥ 1-stage increase in fibrosis according to Ludwig histologic classification at week 96. Secondary objectives include evaluation of changes in liver biochemistry, serum bile acids, liver fibrosis assessed by noninvasive methods, health-related quality of life, and safety of cilofexor. CONCLUSION The phase 3 PRIMIS study is the largest randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in PSC to date and will allow for robust evaluation of the efficacy and safety of cilofexor in noncirrhotic patients with large-duct PSC. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03890120; registered 26/03/2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | - Kate Sterling
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Xiaomin Lu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA.
| | - Jun Xu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Clare Tempany-Afdhal
- Department of Radiology, Ferenc Jolesz National Center for Image Guided Therapy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St, L1 Rm 050, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Zachary D Goodman
- Hepatic Pathology Consultation and Research, Inova Fairfax Hospital, 8110 Gatehouse Rd, Falls Church, VA, 22042, USA
| | - Martti Färkkilä
- Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, 2-11-1, Kaga, Itabashi-Ku, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan
| | - Palak Trivedi
- National Institute for Health Research Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, ITM Building, Mindelsohn Way, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Kris V Kowdley
- Liver Institute Northwest, 3216 NE 45 Pl #212, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UC Davis School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Cynthia Levy
- Schiff Center for Liver Diseases, University of Miami, Jackson Medical Towers, 1500 NW 12 Ave, Suite 1101 ET, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
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Taneja S, Mehtani R, De A, Mitra S, Rathi S, Verma N, Premkumar M, Minz R, Duseja A, Das A, Singh V, Dhiman RK, Chawla YK. Spectrum of Autoimmune Liver Disease and Real-World Treatment Experience from a Tertiary Care Hospital. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:241-251. [PMID: 36950480 PMCID: PMC10025584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.11.002] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Autoimmune liver disease (AILD) comprises of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) with a spectrum of overlap amongst the three. We analyzed the spectrum and treatment outcomes of patients with AILD presenting to a tertiary care center in India. Methods A retrospective analysis of AILD patients from June 2008 to April 2021 was performed. The diagnosis was based on clinical, biochemical, imaging, serological, and histological characteristics. Eligible patients received treatment depending on the disease stage. Biochemical response to treatment was defined as normalization of AST, ALT, bilirubin, and immunoglobulin G levels at 6 months in AIH, normalization of total bilirubin and/or albumin at 1 year in PBC and decrease in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels by 40% in PSC. Results Two hundred seventy-five patients were analyzed. AIH (58.54%) was most common, followed by an overlap of AIH-PBC (24%) and AIH-PSC (6.54%), PSC (6.18%), and PBC (4.72%). Most patients presented in 3rd or 4th decade, except PBC which occurred predominantly in 5th decade. The majority of patients were females (72.72%). Jaundice was the most common presentation seen in 60% of patients. Cirrhosis was present in 57.47% of patients. Patients with overlap had more pruritus (54.76 vs 6.83%), fatigue (63.1% vs 49.7%), hepatomegaly (52.4% vs 25.5%), and higher ALP (80.9% vs 37.7%) than patients with AIH alone. Acute presentation was seen in 33 patients (13.5%) with most having AIH flare. Five patients had acute liver failure (ALF) and 9 had acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). ALF was associated with 80% mortality while 55.56% of patients with ACLF had a complete biochemical response to immunosuppression. Among patients with AIH and/or overlap who received immunosuppression, a complete biochemical response to immunosuppression was seen in 60.69% of patients. High ALT (OR 1.001 [1.000-1.003], P = 0.034), high albumin (OR 1.91 [1.05-3.48], P = 0.034) and low fibrosis on biopsy (OR 0.54 [0.33-0.91], P = 0.020) predicted complete response. Conclusion AIH is the most common AILD followed by overlap syndromes, PSC and PBC in our cohort. Biochemical response to immunosuppression is seen in 60% of patients with AIH & low fibrosis score on histopathology predicts a complete response.
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Key Words
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- AIH, autoimmune hepatitis
- AILD, Autoimmune liver diseases
- ALF, acute liver failure
- ALP, alkaline phosphatase
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AMA, anti-mitochondrial antibody
- ASMA, anti-smooth muscle antibody
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- ELISA, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
- IBD, inflammatory bowel disease
- INR, international normalized ratio
- IgG, immunoglobulin G
- LC-1, liver cytosol 1
- LKM-1, liver kidney microsomal 1
- LSM, liver stiffness measurement
- LT, liver transplant
- MMF, mycophenolate mofetil
- MRCP, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography
- PBC, primary biliary cholangitis
- PSC, primary sclerosing cholangitis
- SLA, soluble liver antigen
- UDCA, ursodeoxycholic acid
- ULN, upper limit of normal
- autoimmune hepatitis
- cirrhosis
- overlap syndromes
- primary biliary cholangitis
- primary sclerosing cholangitis
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Taneja
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rohit Mehtani
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Arka De
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Suvradeep Mitra
- Department of Immunopathology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sahaj Rathi
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nipun Verma
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Madhumita Premkumar
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ranjana Minz
- Department of Immunopathology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ajay Duseja
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ashim Das
- Department of Histopathology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Virendra Singh
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Radha K. Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Yogesh K. Chawla
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
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Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) are a group of immune-mediated liver inflammatory diseases with three major forms including autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Interaction of both genetic and environmental factors leads to the breakdown of self-tolerance, hence resulting in hyper-responsive of autoantibodies and aggressive autoreactive immune cells. Genetic studies have identified dozens of risk loci associated with initiation and development of AILD. However, the role of exogenous factors remains unclear. Recently, both infectious and inflammatory diseases have been associated with microbiota, which colonizes multiple mucosal surfaces and participates in human physiological process and function in immune system, particularly influencing liver, and biliary system via gut-liver axis. Emerging evidence on the role of gut microbiota has expanded our knowledge of AILD in both pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets, along with putative diagnosis biomarkers. Herein we review the relationship between host and gut microbiota, discuss their potential roles in disease onset and progression, and summarize the compositional and functional alterations of the microbiota in AILD. We also highlighted the microbiota-based therapeutics such as antibiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Qian
- School of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei He
- School of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruqi Tang
- School of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiong Ma
- School of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China -
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14
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Habeeb TAAM, Hussain A, Podda M, Cianci P, Ramshaw B, Safwat K, Amr WM, Wasefy T, Fiad AA, Mansour MI, Moursi AM, Osman G, Qasem A, Fawzy M, Alsaad MIA, Kalmoush AE, Nassar MS, Mustafa FM, Badawy MHM, Hamdy A, Elbelkasi H, Mousa B, Metwalli AEM, Mawla WA, Elaidy MM, Baghdadi MA, Raafat A. Hepatobiliary manifestations following two-stages elective laparoscopic restorative proctocolectomy for patients with ulcerative colitis: A prospective observational study. World J Gastrointest Surg 2023; 15:234-248. [PMID: 36896298 PMCID: PMC9988646 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v15.i2.234] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatobiliary manifestations occur in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. The effect of laparoscopic restorative proctocolectomy (LRP) with ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) on hepatobiliary manifestations is debated.
AIM To evaluate hepatobiliary changes after two-stages elective laparoscopic restorative proctocolectomy for patients with UC.
METHODS Between June 2013 and June 2018, 167 patients with hepatobiliary symptoms underwent two-stage elective LRP for UC in a prospective observational study. Patients with UC and having at least one hepatobiliary manifestation who underwent LRP with IPAA were included in the study. The patients were followed up for four years to assess the outcomes of hepatobiliary manifestations.
RESULTS The patients' mean age was 36 ± 8 years, and males predominated (67.1%). The most common hepatobiliary diagnostic method was liver biopsy (85.6%), followed by Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (63.5%), Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (62.5%), abdominal ultrasonography (35.9%), and Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (6%). The most common hepatobiliary symptom was Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) (62.3%), followed by fatty liver (16.8%) and gallbladder stone (10.2%). 66.4% of patients showed a stable course after surgery. Progressive or regressive courses occurred in 16.8% of each. Mortality was 6%, and recurrence or progression of symptoms required surgery for 15%. Most PSC patients (87.5%) had a stable course, and only 12.5% became worse. Two-thirds (64.3%) of fatty liver patients showed a regressive course, while one-third (35.7%) showed a stable course. Survival rates were 98.8%, 97%, 95.8%, and 94% at 12 mo, 24 mo, 36 mo, and at the end of the follow-up.
CONCLUSION In patients with UC who had LRP, there is a positive impact on hepatobiliary disease. It caused an improvement in PSC and fatty liver disease. The most prevalent unchanged course was PSC, while the most common improvement was fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamer A A M Habeeb
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | | | - Mauro Podda
- Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 2432, Italy
| | - Pasquale Cianci
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Università degli studi di Foggia, Foggia 546, Italy
| | - Bruce Ramshaw
- MD CQInsights PBC, Co-founder & CEO, Tennessee, TN 37010, United States
| | - Khaled Safwat
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Wesam M Amr
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Tamer Wasefy
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Alaa A Fiad
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Ibrahim Mansour
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Adel Mahmoud Moursi
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Gamal Osman
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Anass Qasem
- Department of Internal Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 2355, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Fawzy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Suez University, Suez 235, Egypt
| | | | | | | | - Fawzy M Mustafa
- Department of General Surgery, Al-azhar University, Cairo 285, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed Hamdy
- Department of Hepato-Bilio-Pancreatic (HBP) Surgery, National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Cairo 285, Egypt
| | - Hamdi Elbelkasi
- Department of General Surgery, Mataryia Teaching Hospital, Cairo 285, Egypt
| | - Bassam Mousa
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Abd-Elrahman M Metwalli
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Walid A Mawla
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Mostafa M Elaidy
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Ali Baghdadi
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Raafat
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44759, Sharkia, Egypt
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15
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Bowlus CL, Arrivé L, Bergquist A, Deneau M, Forman L, Ilyas SI, Lunsford KE, Martinez M, Sapisochin G, Shroff R, Tabibian JH, Assis DN. AASLD practice guidance on primary sclerosing cholangitis and cholangiocarcinoma. Hepatology 2023; 77:659-702. [PMID: 36083140 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology , University of California Davis Health , Sacramento , California , USA
| | | | - Annika Bergquist
- Karolinska Institutet , Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Mark Deneau
- University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Lisa Forman
- University of Colorado , Aurora , Colorado , USA
| | - Sumera I Ilyas
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science , Rochester , Minnesota , USA
| | - Keri E Lunsford
- Rutgers University-New Jersey Medical School , Newark , New Jersey , USA
| | - Mercedes Martinez
- Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons , Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | | | | | - James H Tabibian
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - David N Assis
- Yale School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
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16
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Färkkilä M, Kautiainen H, Tenca A, Jokelainen K, Arola J. PNPLA3 allele frequency has no impact on biliary bile acid composition or disease course in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277084. [PMID: 36454904 PMCID: PMC9714899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to bile duct strictures, cholestasis, and biliary cirrhosis. PNPLA3 (patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 3), regulates cellular lipid synthesis by converting lysophosphatidic acid into phosphatidic acid. Isoleucine mutation to methionine at position 148 (I148M) causes a loss of this function. Only two studies, with contradictory results, have evaluated the role of PNPLA3 in PSC. The rs738409(G) variant of PNPLA3 has been associated with an increased risk for transplantation in male patients with dominant strictures (DS). The study aimed to evaluate the PNPLA3 allele frequency effect on the clinical outcomes, progression, and prognosis of PSC. Furthermore, we analyzed the impact of PNPLA3 on phospholipid and bile acid composition to evaluate the effect of the PNPLA3 status on UDCA response. PATIENTS AND METHODS We recruited 560 patients prospectively and collected clinical and laboratory data as well as liver histology and imaging findings. PNPLA3 (CC, CG, GG) alleles were analyzed with TaqManTM. We also analyzed bile acids (BA), cholesterol and phospholipids and individual BA from a sample aspirated during endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC). RESULTS Among the recruited patients, 58.4%, 35.7% and 5.9% had the wild (CC), heterozygous (CG) and homozygous (GG) alleles, respectively. The PNPLA3 haplotype did not impact bile composition or individual BA. In addition, we found no differences in age at diagnosis, disease progression, liver fibrosis or survival between the cohorts. CONCLUSIONS The PNPLA3 I148M variant had no significant impact on on bile composition, including UDCA content, clinical outcomes, progression of liver fibrosis, hepatobiliary cancer risk, liver transplantation, or overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martti Färkkilä
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- * E-mail:
| | - Hannu Kautiainen
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Andrea Tenca
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kalle Jokelainen
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Arola
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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17
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Eliasson J, Lo B, Schramm C, Chazouilleres O, Folseraas T, Beuers U, Ytting H. Survey uncovering variations in the management of primary sclerosing cholangitis across Europe. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100553. [PMID: 36164416 PMCID: PMC9508339 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Data on the management of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) in European expert centres are sparse. In this study, a PSC group from the ERN RARE-LIVER surveyed European hepatologists to uncover differences in real-life clinical practices. Methods In April 2020 a survey questionnaire was sent to members of the International PSC Study Group and ERN RARE-LIVER. Participants were asked about the size of their PSC cohort, use of medical treatments including ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and surveillance for cholangiocarcinoma, gallbladder polyps and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Data were presented descriptively. Results Eighty-two of 278 members responded. Fifty percent of physicians prescribed UDCA routinely to all their patients with PSC, whereas 12% never prescribed UDCA. UDCA was used for one or more indications including: alkaline phosphatase >1.5x the upper limit of normal, severe PSC changes, pruritus, PSC-IBD or patient demand. Few physicians offered other medical treatments than UDCA. The use of medical treatments was generally comparable in small (<99 patients) and large (≥99 patients) cohorts, as well as for adult and paediatric physicians. Most physicians routinely screened for cholangiocarcinoma and the most frequent modalities used were MRI and ultrasound. At detection of a gallbladder polyp of 6 mm, 46% of physicians recommended repeated ultrasound after 3-6 months, whereas 44% of physicians recommended immediate cholecystectomy. In patients with PSC without IBD at PSC diagnosis, 68% of physicians repeated colonoscopy within 3-5 years whereas 27% referred only patients who developed symptoms of IBD. Conclusion Substantial variations in treatment and monitoring of European patients with PSC were discovered. Harmonisation of strategies is desirable to enable improved interpretation of outcome data and to optimise clinical patient care. Lay summary In this study, we explored how different centres in Europe manage primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a rare inflammatory disease of the bile ducts. We collected information through a questionnaire sent to specialist physicians who were part of a European network for rare liver diseases. We found several differences in how patients with PSC were monitored and treated. This includes differences in surveillance for bile duct cancer, gallbladder polyps and inflammatory bowel disease. By pointing out these differences, we hope that management of PSC will be standardized, which could aid clinical research and benefit patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Eliasson
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, ERN RARE-LIVER, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Bobby Lo
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, ERN RARE-LIVER, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Christoph Schramm
- 1 Department of Medicine and Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, ERN RARE-LIVER, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Olivier Chazouilleres
- Department of Hepatology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Reference Center for Inflammatory Biliary Diseases and Autoimmune Hepatitis (CRMR MIVB-H, ERN RARE-LIVER), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Trine Folseraas
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, ERN RARE-LIVER, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases, and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, ERN RARE-LIVER, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henriette Ytting
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, ERN RARE-LIVER, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
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18
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Arizumi T, Tazuma S, Isayama H, Nakazawa T, Tsuyuguchi T, Takikawa H, Tanaka A. Ursodeoxycholic acid is associated with improved long-term outcome in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. J Gastroenterol 2022; 57:902-912. [PMID: 36068441 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-022-01914-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It remains unclear whether ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment improves long-term outcomes in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). In this study, we investigated whether UDCA treatment is associated with improved liver transplantation (LT)-free survival in a cohort of Japanese patients with PSC.Journal instruction requires a city and country for affiliations; however, these are missing in affiliation [6]. Please verify if the provided city and country are correct and amend if necessary.'Tokyo, Japan' is correct. METHODS We used retrospective data from the Japanese PSC registry that included 435 patients with PSC. In this study, we enrolled patients with a complete dataset at diagnosis, along with the diagnosis year, treatment protocol, follow-up period, and outcome data. The association between UDCA treatment and all-cause death or LT was analyzed using Cox regression and inverse probability of UDCA treatment weighting (IPTW)-adjusted Cox regression models adjusted for covariates. RESULTS Among 435 patients with PSC, 110 were excluded due to insufficient or missing data, and the remaining 325 patients (male, 187 (58%); mean age at diagnosis, 45.8 years) were enrolled. The mean follow-up period was 5.1 years, and 57 deaths and 24 LTs occurred during observation. UDCA was administered to 278 patients (86%). The Cox regression model demonstrated that UDCA treatment was associated with an improvement in LT-free survival [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.28-0.78, p = 0.003]. In addition, the IPTW-adjusted model indicated a significant association between UDCA and LT-free survival (aHR 0.43, 95% CI 0.25-0.75, p = 0.020). Sensitivity analysis excluding patients treated with bezafibrate indicated a similarly significant association between UDCA treatment and LT-free survival. CONCLUSION In this Japanese PSC cohort, UDCA treatment was significantly associated with improved LT-free survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Arizumi
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, 2-11-1, Kaga, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan
| | - Susumu Tazuma
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Isayama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Nakazawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Toshio Tsuyuguchi
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hajime Takikawa
- Faculty of Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, 2-11-1, Kaga, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan.
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A Randomized, Dose-Finding, Proof-of-Concept Study of Berberine Ursodeoxycholate in Patients With Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. Am J Gastroenterol 2022; 117:1805-1815. [PMID: 36327436 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a fibroinflammatory disease of the bile ducts leading to cirrhosis and hepatic decompensation. There are no approved pharmaceutical therapies for PSC. Berberine ursodeoxycholate (HTD1801) is an ionic salt of berberine and ursodeoxycholic acid with pleiotropic mechanisms of action. METHODS An 18-week proof-of-concept study was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of HTD1801 in PSC. This study had three 6-week periods: (i) a placebo-controlled period, (ii) a treatment extension period, and (iii) a randomized treatment withdrawal period. The primary end point was change from baseline in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) at week 6. RESULTS Fifty-five patients were randomized and treated; 35 (64%) had inflammatory bowel disease and 22 (40%) had previously received ursodeoxycholic acid. Patients were initially randomized to placebo (n = 16), HTD1801 500 mg BID (n = 15), or HTD1801 1000 mg BID (n = 24). At baseline, mean (range) ALP values were 414 U/L (138-1,048), 397 U/L (237-773), and 335 U/L (122-882) for the placebo, HTD1801 500 mg BID, and HTD1801 1,000 mg BID groups, respectively. At week 6, a significant decrease in ALP was observed with HTD1801 (least square mean; HTD1801 500 mg BID = -53 U/L, P = 0.016; HTD1801 1000 mg BID = -37 U/L, P = 0.019) compared with placebo (98 U/L). ALP reductions were sustained through week 18 in those who remained on therapy, whereas ALP increased in those who crossed over to placebo during period 3. HTD1801 was generally well tolerated; 4 patients experienced serious adverse events, none attributed to HTD1801. DISCUSSION HTD1801 is associated with significant improvement in ALP and warrants further study as a treatment for PSC.
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Chazouilleres O, Beuers U, Bergquist A, Karlsen TH, Levy C, Samyn M, Schramm C, Trauner M. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on sclerosing cholangitis. J Hepatol 2022; 77:761-806. [PMID: 35738507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Management of primary or secondary sclerosing cholangitis is challenging. These Clinical Practice Guidelines have been developed to provide practical guidance on debated topics including diagnostic methods, prognostic assessment, early detection of complications, optimal care pathways and therapeutic (pharmacological, endoscopic or surgical) options both in adults and children.
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21
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Trauner M, Bowlus CL, Gulamhusein A, Hameed B, Caldwell SH, Shiffman ML, Landis C, Muir AJ, Billin A, Xu J, Liu X, Lu X, Chung C, Myers RP, Kowdley KV. Safety and sustained efficacy of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist cilofexor over a 96-week open-label extension in patients with PSC. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 21:1552-1560.e2. [PMID: 35934287 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2022.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a major unmet medical need in clinical hepatology. Cilofexor is a nonsteroidal farnesoid X receptor agonist being evaluated for the treatment of PSC. Here, we describe the safety and preliminary efficacy of cilofexor in a 96-week, open-label extension (OLE) of a phase II trial. METHODS Noncirrhotic subjects with large-duct PSC who completed the 12-week, blinded phase of a phase II study (NCT02943460) were eligible, after a 4-week washout period, for a 96-week OLE with cilofexor 100 mg daily. Safety, liver biochemistry, and serum markers of fibrosis, cellular injury, and pharmacodynamic effects of cilofexor (fibroblast growth factor 19, C4, and bile acids [BAs]) were evaluated. RESULTS Among 52 subjects enrolled in the phase II study, 47 (90%) continued in the OLE phase (median age, 44 years; 60% male patients, 60% with inflammatory bowel disease, and 45% on ursodeoxycholic acid [UDCA]). At OLE baseline (BL), the median serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) were 368 U/L (interquartile range [IQR], 277-468 U/L) and 417 U/L (IQR, 196-801 U/L), respectively. Of the 47 subjects enrolled, 15 (32%) discontinued treatment prematurely (pruritus [n = 5], other adverse events [n = 5], subject decision/investigator discretion [n = 5]). At week 96, reductions in liver biochemistry parameters occurred, including serum ALP (median, -8.3% [IQR, -25.9% to 11.0%]; P = .066), GGT (-29.8% [IQR, -42.3% to -13.9%]; P < .001), alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) (-29.8% [IQR, -43.7% to -6.6%]; P = .002), and aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) (-16.7% [IQR, -35.3% to 1.0%]; P = .010), and rebounded after 4 weeks of untreated follow-up. ALP response (≥20% reduction from BL to week 96) was similar in the presence or absence of UDCA therapy (29% vs 39%; P = .71). At week 96, cilofexor treatment was associated with a significant reduction in serum 7α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one (C4) (-29.8% [IQR, -64.3% to -8.5%]; P = .001). In subjects with detectable serum BAs at BL (n = 40), BAs decreased -23.9% (IQR, -44.4% to -0.6%; P = .006) at week 48 (n = 28) and -25.7% (IQR, -35.9% to 53.7%; P = .91) at week 96 (n = 26). Serum cytokeratin 18 (CK18) M30 and M65 were reduced throughout the OLE; significant reductions were observed at week 72 (CK18 M30, -17.3% [IQR, -39.3% to 8.8%]; P = .018; CK18 M65, -43.5% [IQR, -54.9% to 15.3%]; P = .096). At week 96, a small, but statistically significant absolute increase of 0.15 units in Enhanced Liver Fibrosis score was observed compared with BL (median, 9.34 vs 9.53; P = .028). CONCLUSIONS In this 96-week OLE of a phase II study of PSC, cilofexor was safe and improved liver biochemistry and biomarkers of cholestasis and cellular injury. CLINICALTRIALS gov identifier: NCT02943460.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California
| | | | - Bilal Hameed
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California
| | - Stephen H Caldwell
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | - Charles Landis
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Andrew J Muir
- Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Jun Xu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc, Foster City, California
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc, Foster City, California
| | - Xiaomin Lu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc, Foster City, California
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22
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Tauroursodeoxycholic acid: a potential therapeutic tool in neurodegenerative diseases. Transl Neurodegener 2022; 11:33. [PMID: 35659112 PMCID: PMC9166453 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-022-00307-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Most neurodegenerative disorders are diseases of protein homeostasis, with misfolded aggregates accumulating. The neurodegenerative process is mediated by numerous metabolic pathways, most of which lead to apoptosis. In recent years, hydrophilic bile acids, particularly tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), have shown important anti-apoptotic and neuroprotective activities, with numerous experimental and clinical evidence suggesting their possible therapeutic use as disease-modifiers in neurodegenerative diseases. Experimental evidence on the mechanisms underlying TUDCA's neuroprotective action derives from animal models of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and cerebral ischemia. Preclinical studies indicate that TUDCA exerts its effects not only by regulating and inhibiting the apoptotic cascade, but also by reducing oxidative stress, protecting the mitochondria, producing an anti-neuroinflammatory action, and acting as a chemical chaperone to maintain the stability and correct folding of proteins. Furthermore, data from phase II clinical trials have shown TUDCA to be safe and a potential disease-modifier in ALS. ALS is the first neurodegenerative disease being treated with hydrophilic bile acids. While further clinical evidence is being accumulated for the other diseases, TUDCA stands as a promising treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Nguyen CM, Kline KT, Stevenson HL, Khan K, Parupudi S. Small duct primary sclerosing cholangitis: A discrete variant or a bridge to large duct disease, a practical review. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:495-503. [PMID: 35582290 PMCID: PMC9055190 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i3.495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The natural history, associations with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and long-term outcomes of large duct primary sclerosing cholangitis (ldPSC) have been well documented. Small duct primary sclerosing cholangitis (sdPSC) is a much less common and relatively more benign variant. The natural history of sdPSC has been difficult to characterize given the limited number of studies in the literature especially with regards to the subset of patients who progress to large duct involvement. It has been unclear whether sdPSC represented a subset of ldPSC, an earlier staging of ldPSC, or a completely separate and distinct entity of its own. Strong associations between sdPSC and IBD have been established with suspicion that concurrent sdPSC-IBD may be a key prognostic factor in determining which patients are at risk of progression to ldPSC. Little is known regarding the discrete circumstances that predisposes some patients with sdPSC to progress to ldPSC. It has been suspected that progression to large biliary duct involvement subjects this subset of patients to potentially developing life-threatening complications. Here the authors conducted a thorough review of the published sdPSC literature using Pubmed searches and cross-referencing to compile all accessible studies regarding cohorts of sdPSC patients in order better characterize the subset of sdPSC patients who progress to ldPSC and the associated outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Nguyen
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, United States
| | - Kevin T Kline
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, United States
| | - Heather L Stevenson
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, United States
| | - Kashif Khan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, United States
| | - Sreeram Parupudi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, United States
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24
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Farooqui N, Elhence A, Shalimar. A Current Understanding of Bile Acids in Chronic Liver Disease. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:155-173. [PMID: 35068796 PMCID: PMC8766695 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2021.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease (CLD) is one of the leading causes of disability-adjusted life years in many countries. A recent understanding of nuclear bile acid receptor pathways has increased focus on the impact of crosstalk between the gut, bile acids, and liver on liver pathology. While conventionally used in cholestatic disorders and to dissolve gallstones, the discovery of bile acids' influence on the gut microbiome and human metabolism offers a unique potential for their utility in early and advanced liver diseases because of diverse etiologies. Based on these findings, preclinical studies using bile acid-based molecules have shown encouraging results at addressing liver inflammation and fibrosis. Emerging data also suggest that bile acid profiles change distinctively across various causes of liver disease. We summarize the current knowledge and evidence related to bile acids in health and disease and discuss culminated and ongoing therapeutic trials of bile acid derivatives in CLD. In the near future, further evidence in this area might help clinicians better detect and manage liver diseases.
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Key Words
- AD, Acute decompensation
- ALP, Alkaline phosphatase
- AMACR, α-methylacyl-CoA racemase (AMACR)
- ASBT, Apical sodium dependent bile salt transporter
- BA, Bile acid
- BSEP, Bile salt export pump
- BSH, Bile salt hydrolase
- CA, Cholic acid
- CDCA, Chenodeoxycholic acid
- CLD
- CLD, Chronic Liver Disease
- CTP, Child-Turcotte-Pugh
- CYP7A1, Cholesterol 7 α hydroxylase
- DCA, Deoxycholic acid
- DR5, Death receptor 5
- ELF, Enhanced Liver Fibrosis
- FGF-19, Fibroblast growth factor-19
- FGFR4, FGF receptor 4
- FXR, Farnesoid X receptor
- GCA, Glycocholic acid
- GDCA, Glycodeoxycholic acid
- GLP-1, Glucagon-like peptide1
- HBV, Hepatitis B virus
- HCV, Hepatitis C virus
- HVPG, Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient
- LCA, Lithocholic acid
- LPS, Lipopolysaccharide
- MELD, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD)
- MRI-PDFF, Magnetic resonance imaging derived proton density fat fraction
- NAFLD
- NAFLD, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- NAS, NAFLD activity score
- NASH, Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- NTCP, Sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide
- OCA, Obeticholic acid
- OST, Organic solute transporter
- PBC, Primary biliary cirrhosis
- PFIC, Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis
- PSC, Primary sclerosing cholangitis
- PXR, Pregnane X receptor
- SHP, Small heterodimer partner
- TBA, Total bile acids
- TGR5, Takeda G-protein coupled receptor 5
- TRAIL, TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand
- UDCA, Ursodeoxycholic acid
- UPLC-MS, Ultra-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
- VDR, Vitamin D receptor
- bile acids
- cirrhosis
- microbiome
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Affiliation(s)
- Naba Farooqui
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Anshuman Elhence
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Shalimar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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25
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Vitale G, Gitto S, Campani C, Turco L, Baldan A, Marra F, Morelli MC. Biological therapies in patients with liver disease: are they really lifesavers? Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 22:473-490. [PMID: 34860629 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2013799] [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: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The liver plays a key role in the setting of immune tolerance. Targeting antigens for presentation by antigen-presenting cells in the liver can induce immune tolerance to either autoantigens from the liver itself or organs outside of the liver. Despite its non-conventional capacity for tolerance induction, the liver remains a target organ for autoimmune diseases. Whereas chronic inflammation and intra-hepatic immuno-suppressive microenvironment occurring during liver fibrosis lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. Monoclonal antibodies have revolutionized the therapeutic strategies of many autoimmune diseases and some cancers. AREAS COVERED We review data from literature regarding the safety and efficacy of biologics in treating hepatobiliary autoimmune diseases and primary liver cancers. Furthermore, we describe their potential use in the setting of liver transplants and their main immune-related liver adverse events. EXPERT OPINION Biological therapies have changed the natural history of main autoimmune diseases and solid cancers. Compared to other organs and disease settings, the liver lags behind in biologics and their applications. The development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies based on the immunological and antigenic characteristics of the hepatobiliary system could reduce mortality and transplant rates linked to chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Vitale
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Gitto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudia Campani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Turco
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Baldan
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Marra
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Morelli
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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26
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Floreani A, De Martin S. Treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Dig Liver Dis 2021; 53:1531-1538. [PMID: 34011480 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by progressive fibro-stenotic strictures and destruction of the biliary tree. Currently, there is no effective treatment which can delay its progression or ameliorate the transplant-free survival. Moreover, a major chontroversy in PSC is whether to use UDCA. More recently, novel pharmacological agents emerged aiming at: i) modulation of bile composition; ii) immunomodulation; iii) targeting the gut microbiome; iv) targeting fibrosis. Successful PSC therapy, however, will be most likely a personalized combination of different drugs plus endoscopic treatment. This review aims at offering an overview on the experimental pharmacological strategies currently exploited for PSC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Scientific Consultant, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, Negrar, Verona, Italy; Senior Scholar, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Italy
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Wang C, Peng F, Zhong B, Shi Y, Wang X, Jin X, Niu J. Metabolomic Analysis Reveals the Therapeutic Effects of MBT1805, a Novel Pan-Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Agonist, on α-Naphthylisothiocyanate-Induced Cholestasis in Mice. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:732478. [PMID: 34776958 PMCID: PMC8585842 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.732478] [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: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Therapeutic drugs that are used to treat cholestatic liver disease are limited; however, the results of clinical trials on primary biliary cholangitis treatment targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are encouraging. In this study, we aimed to identify the effects of MBT1805, a novel balanced PPARα/γ/δ agonist, on cholestasis induced by α-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT) and elucidate the underlying mechanisms through untargeted and bile acid-targeted metabolomic analysis. Methods: Levels of serum biochemical indicators (transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin) and liver histopathology were analyzed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of MBT1805 on ANIT-induced cholestasis in C57BL/6 mice. Untargeted and bile acid-targeted metabolomic analysis of liver tissues was performed using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MC/MC). qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis were carried out to measure the expression of key enzymes and transporters regulating bile acid synthesis, biotransformation, and transport. Results: MBT1805 significantly improved abnormal levels of liver biochemical indicators and gallbladder enlargement induced by ANIT. Histopathological analysis showed that MBT1805 effectively relieved ANIT-induced necrosis, vacuolation, and inflammatory infiltration. Untargeted metabolomic analysis identified 27 metabolites that were involved in the primary biliary acid biosynthesis pathway. In addition, bile acid-targeted metabolomics showed that MBT1805 could alleviate the abnormal bile acid content and composition induced by ANIT. Furthermore, qRT-PCR and Western blot results confirmed that MBT1805 could effectively regulate bile acid synthesis, biotransformation, and transport which helps relieve cholestasis. Conclusions: MBT1805 is a potential candidate drug for cholestasis, with a balanced PPARα/γ/δ activation effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry Education, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Fei Peng
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry Education, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Bohua Zhong
- Beijing JK HuaYuan Med Tech Company LTD, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Shi
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry Education, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry Education, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xueyuan Jin
- International Center for Liver Disease Treatment, Fifth Medical Center of China PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Junqi Niu
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry Education, Changchun, Jilin, China
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28
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Saffioti F, Mavroeidis VK. Review of incidence and outcomes of treatment of cholangiocarcinoma in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:1336-1366. [PMID: 34721770 PMCID: PMC8529934 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i10.1336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a premalignant condition and a well-documented risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) which is the most common malignancy in this setting and the leading cause of deaths in the recent years, with an increasing incidence. PSC-associated CCA has a geographical distribution that follows the incidence of PSC, with an observed ascending gradient from the Eastern to the Western and from the Southern to the Northern countries. It may arise at any location along the biliary tree but is most common in the perihilar area. Patients with PSC and intrahepatic or perihilar CCA are typically not suitable for liver resection, which is otherwise the treatment of choice with curative intent in patients with resectable tumours, providing a radical resection with clear margins can be achieved. This largely relates to the commonly advanced stage of liver disease at presentation, which allows consideration for liver resection only for a very limited number of suitable patients with PSC. On the other hand, remarkable progress has been reached in the last decades with the implementation of a protocol combining neoadjuvant chemoradiation and orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) for the treatment of perihilar CCA, within specific criteria. Excellent results have been achieved particularly for PSC patients with this cancer, who seem to benefit the most from this treatment, having converted this into an accepted indication for transplantation and the standard of care in several experienced centres. Intrahepatic CCA as an indication for OLT remains controversial and has not been accepted given disappointing previous results. However, as recent studies have shown favourable outcomes in early intrahepatic CCA, it may be that under defined criteria, OLT may play a more prominent role in the future. Distal CCA in the context of PSC requires aggressive surgical treatment with curative intent, when feasible. This review provides insight about particular features of CCA in the setting of PSC, with a main focus on its incidence, considerations relating to its anatomical location and implications to treatment and outcomes, through the viewpoint of historical evolution of management, and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Saffioti
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health and Sheila Sherlock Liver Unit, Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Vasileios K Mavroeidis
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6JJ, United Kingdom
- Department of Transplant Surgery, North Bristol NHS Trust, Southmead Hospital, Bristol BS10 5NB, United Kingdom
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29
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Fossdal G, Mjelle AB, Wiencke K, Bjørk I, Gilja OH, Folseraas T, Karlsen TH, Rosenberg W, Giil LM, Vesterhus M. Fluctuating biomarkers in primary sclerosing cholangitis: A longitudinal comparison of alkaline phosphatase, liver stiffness, and ELF. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100328. [PMID: 34485881 PMCID: PMC8403583 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive liver disease characterised by fluctuating liver biochemistries and highly variable disease progression. The Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF®) test and liver stiffness measurements (LSMs) reflect fibrosis and predict clinical outcomes in PSC; however, longitudinal assessments are missing. We aimed to characterise the systematic change in ELF and LSM over time in a prospective cohort of patients with PSC, along with their longitudinal relationship to alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bilirubin. Methods We included 113 non-transplant PSC patients (86 males [76.1%]; mean age 43.3 ± 15.7 years) with annual study visits between 2013 and 2019 at 2 Norwegian centres. ELF test, LSM, clinical data, liver biochemistries, and revised Mayo risk score were measured. We used linear mixed-effects models to estimate change over time, intraclass correlations (ICCs), and their relationship with ALP and bilirubin. Results At baseline, the median (range) ELF test was 9.3 (7.5–12.9) and median LSM 1.26 m/s (0.66–3.04 m/s). ELF and LSM increased over time (0.09 point/year, 95% CI [0.03, 0.15], p = 0.005, vs. 0.12 point/year, 95% CI [0.03, 0.21], p = 0.009). Between-patient effects explained 78% of ELF variation (ICC 0.78) and 56% of LSM variation (ICC 0.56). ALP also increased and showed the highest ICC (0.86). Conclusions ELF and LSM increased over a 5-year period. Longitudinal analyses demonstrated differences regarding within- and between-patient effects, suggesting that the ELF test may have superior reliability for risk stratification compared with LSM in PSC. Lay summary Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is characterised by substantial disease variability between patients and fluctuating liver biochemistries. Hence, new biomarkers are needed to identify individuals with an increased risk of developing end-stage liver disease. We explore the change over time of 2 putative prognostic biomarkers in PSC, the serum Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF®) test and LSMs by ultrasound, demonstrating differences that may reflect differing abilities to discriminate risk. ELF and LSM increased in patients with PSC, but only in patients with ALP >1.5× ULN. ELF may be more reliable for PSC risk stratification (low within-patient variation). A subgroup showed concomitant spontaneous reduction in ALP, ELF, and LSM.
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Key Words
- ALP, alkaline phosphatase
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- Alkaline phosphatase
- Biomarker
- CRP, C-reactive protein
- ELF, enhanced liver fibrosis
- Elastography
- Enhanced liver fibrosis test
- FIB-4, Fibrosis-4 Index for Liver Fibrosis
- GGT, gamma-glutamyl transferase
- HA, hyaluronic acid
- ICC, intraclass correlation
- INR, international normalised ratio
- IgG4, immunoglobulin G4
- LSM, liver stiffness measurement
- Liver stiffness
- PIIINP, propeptide of type III procollagen
- PSC, primary sclerosing cholangitis
- Primary sclerosing cholangitis
- ROI, region of interest
- Risk stratification
- TE, transient elastography
- TIMP-1, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1
- UDCA, ursodeoxycholic acid
- ULN, upper limit of normal
- pSWE, point shear wave elastography
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Affiliation(s)
- Guri Fossdal
- Norwegian PSC Research Centre, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anders B Mjelle
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kristine Wiencke
- Norwegian PSC Research Centre, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ida Bjørk
- Department of Radiology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Odd Helge Gilja
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,National Centre for Ultrasound in Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Trine Folseraas
- Norwegian PSC Research Centre, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tom Hemming Karlsen
- Norwegian PSC Research Centre, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - William Rosenberg
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London & Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lasse M Giil
- Department of Medicine, Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Mette Vesterhus
- Norwegian PSC Research Centre, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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30
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Lee J, Hong EM, Kim JH, Kim JH, Jung JH, Park SW, Koh DH, Jang HJ. Ursodeoxycholic acid shows antineoplastic effects in bile duct cancer cells via apoptosis induction; p53 activation; and EGFR-ERK, COX-2, and PI3K-AKT pathway inhibition. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:6231-6240. [PMID: 34392440 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06331-y] [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: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Unlike in normal cells, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) causes apoptosis rather than protection in cancer cells. Aim of this study was to demonstrate whether UDCA actually inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in bile duct cancer cells; the effect of UDCA on the expression of COX-2, PI3K/AKT, ERK, and EGFR; how UDCA affects cancer cell invasiveness and metastasis, since these effects are not established in bile duct cancer cells. SNU-245 cells (human extrahepatic bile duct cancer cells) were cultured. MTT assays were performed to evaluate the effect of UDCA on the cell proliferation. A cell death detection enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and a caspase-3 activity assay were used to determine apoptosis. Western blot analysis measured expression levels of various proteins. The invasiveness of the cancer cells was evaluated by invasion assay. In cultured bile duct cancer cells, UDCA suppressed cell proliferation in bile duct cancer cells by inducing apoptosis and p53 activation, blocking deoxycholic acid (DCA)-induced activated EGFR-ERK signaling and COX-2, inhibiting DCA-induced activated PI3K-AKT signaling, and suppressing the invasiveness of bile duct cancer cells. In addition, a MEK inhibitor impaired UDCA-induced apoptosis in bile duct cancer cells. UDCA has antineoplastic and apoptotic effects in bile duct cancer cells. Thus, UDCA could be a chemopreventive agent in patients with a high risk of cancer, and/or a therapeutic option that enhances other chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Gangwon-Do, South Korea. .,Division of Gastroenterology, Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, 7 Keunjaebong-Gil, Hwasung, Gyeonggi-Do, 18450, South Korea.
| | - Eun Mi Hong
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, 7 Keunjaebong-Gil, Hwasung, Gyeonggi-Do, 18450, South Korea
| | - Jung Han Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Gangwon-Do, South Korea
| | - Jung Hee Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Gangwon-Do, South Korea.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, 7 Keunjaebong-Gil, Hwasung, Gyeonggi-Do, 18450, South Korea
| | - Jang Han Jung
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Gangwon-Do, South Korea.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, 7 Keunjaebong-Gil, Hwasung, Gyeonggi-Do, 18450, South Korea
| | - Se Woo Park
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Gangwon-Do, South Korea.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, 7 Keunjaebong-Gil, Hwasung, Gyeonggi-Do, 18450, South Korea
| | - Dong Hee Koh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Gangwon-Do, South Korea.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, 7 Keunjaebong-Gil, Hwasung, Gyeonggi-Do, 18450, South Korea
| | - Hyun Joo Jang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Gangwon-Do, South Korea.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, 7 Keunjaebong-Gil, Hwasung, Gyeonggi-Do, 18450, South Korea
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31
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Thérien A, Cieślak A, Verreault M, Perreault M, Trottier J, Gobeil S, Vohl MC, Barbier O. Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid: A Pharmaco-Nutraceutical Approach to Improve the Responsiveness to Ursodeoxycholic Acid. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082617. [PMID: 34444777 PMCID: PMC8400581 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the first line therapy for the treatment of cholestatic and autoimmune liver diseases. Its clinical use is currently limited by a significant proportion of non-responder patients. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) possess important anti-inflammatory properties and protect liver cells against bile acid (BA)-induced toxicity. The present study was designed to rapidly evaluate whether combining n-3 PUFAs (i.e., eicosapentaenoic [EPA] and docosahexaenoic [DHA] acids) to UDCA would provide additional benefits when compared to the drug alone. The parameters evaluated were (i) the expression of genes governing BA synthesis, transport, and metabolism; (ii) the prevention of BA-induced apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress; and (iii) the control of BA- and LPS-dependent inflammation. In the absence of n-3 PUFAs, most of the parameters investigated were unaffected by UDCA or were only altered by the higher dose (500 µM) of the drug. By contrast, in the presence of EPA/DHA (50/50 µM), all parameters showed a strongly improved response and the lowest UDCA dosage (50 µM) provided equal or better benefits than the highest dose used alone. For example, the combination EPA/DHA + UDCA 50 µM caused comparable down-regulation of the CYP7A1 gene expression and of the BA-induced caspase 3 activity as observed with UDCA 500 µM. In conclusion, these results suggest that the addition of n-3 PUFAs to UDCA may improve the response to the drug, and that such a pharmaco-nutraceutical approach could be used in clinic to open the narrow therapeutic dose of UDCA in cholestatic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Thérien
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (A.T.); (A.C.); (M.V.); (M.P.); (J.T.); (S.G.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Anna Cieślak
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (A.T.); (A.C.); (M.V.); (M.P.); (J.T.); (S.G.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Mélanie Verreault
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (A.T.); (A.C.); (M.V.); (M.P.); (J.T.); (S.G.)
| | - Martin Perreault
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (A.T.); (A.C.); (M.V.); (M.P.); (J.T.); (S.G.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Jocelyn Trottier
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (A.T.); (A.C.); (M.V.); (M.P.); (J.T.); (S.G.)
| | - Stéphane Gobeil
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (A.T.); (A.C.); (M.V.); (M.P.); (J.T.); (S.G.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Vohl
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
| | - Olivier Barbier
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (A.T.); (A.C.); (M.V.); (M.P.); (J.T.); (S.G.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
- Correspondence:
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The Role of Microbiota in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Related Biliary Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136975. [PMID: 34203536 PMCID: PMC8268159 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an immune-related cholangiopathy characterized by biliary inflammation, cholestasis, and multifocal bile duct strictures. It is associated with high rates of progression to end-stage liver disease as well as a significant risk of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), gallbladder cancer, and colorectal carcinoma. Currently, no effective medical treatment with an impact on the overall survival is available, and liver transplantation is the only curative treatment option. Emerging evidence indicates that gut microbiota is associated with disease pathogenesis. Several studies analyzing fecal and mucosal samples demonstrate a distinct gut microbiome in individuals with PSC compared to healthy controls and individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) without PSC. Experimental mouse and observational human data suggest that a diverse set of microbial functions may be relevant, including microbial metabolites and bacterial processing of pharmacological agents, bile acids, or dietary compounds, altogether driving the intrahepatic inflammation. Despite critical progress in this field over the past years, further functional characterization of the role of the microbiota in PSC and related malignancies is needed. In this review, we discuss the available data on the role of the gut microbiome and elucidate important insights into underlying pathogenic mechanisms and possible microbe-altering interventions.
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The Management of Cholestatic Liver Diseases: Current Therapies and Emerging New Possibilities. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081763. [PMID: 33919600 PMCID: PMC8073106 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are two chronic cholestatic liver diseases affecting bile ducts that may progress to biliary cirrhosis. In the past few years, the increasing knowledge in the pathogenesis of both diseases led to a growing number of clinical trials and possible new targets for therapy. In this review, we provide an update on the treatments in clinical use and summarize the new drugs in trials for PBC and PSC patients. Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) agonists and Pan-Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) agonists are the most promising agents and have shown promising results in both PBC and PSC. Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19) analogues also showed good results, especially in PBC, while, although PBC and PSC are autoimmune diseases, immunosuppressive drugs had disappointing effects. Since the gut microbiome could have a potential role in the pathogenesis of PSC, recent research focused on molecules that could change the microbiome, with good results. The near future of the medical management of these diseases may include new treatments or a combination of multiple drugs targeting different signaling pathways at different stages of the diseases.
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Rabiee A, Silveira MG. Primary sclerosing cholangitis. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 6:29. [PMID: 33824933 DOI: 10.21037/tgh-20-266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by inflammatory destruction of the intrahepatic and/or extrahepatic bile ducts, leading to bile stasis, fibrosis, and ultimately to cirrhosis, and often requires liver transplantation (LT). PSC occurs more commonly in men, and is typically diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 40. Most cases occur in association with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which often precedes the development of PSC. PSC is usually diagnosed after detection of cholestasis during health evaluation or screening of patients with IBD. When symptomatic, the most common presenting symptoms are abdominal pain, pruritus, jaundice or fatigue. The etiology of PSC is poorly understood, but an increasing body of evidence supports the concept of cholangiocyte injury as a result of environmental exposure and an abnormal immune response in genetically susceptible individuals. PSC is a progressive disease, yet no effective medical therapy for halting disease progression has been identified. Management of PSC is mainly focused on treatment of symptoms and addressing complications. PSC can be complicated by bacterial cholangitis, dominant strictures (DSs), gallbladder polyps and adenocarcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and, in patients with IBD, colorectal malignancy. CCA is the most common malignancy in PSC with a cumulative lifetime risk of 10-20%, and accounts for a large proportion of mortality in PSC. LT is currently the only life-extending therapeutic approach for eligible patients with end-stage PSC, ultimately required in approximately 40% of patients. LT secondary to PSC has an excellent outcome compared to other LT indications, although the disease can recur and result in morbidity post-transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anahita Rabiee
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marina G Silveira
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Björnsson ES, Kalaitzakis E. Recent advances in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 15:413-425. [PMID: 33283566 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2021.1860751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: PSC is a rare liver disease that leads frequently to cirrhosis and need for liver transplantation. No medical treatment is of proven value. Liver transplantation is the only curative therapy available. There is a big medical need to find medical therapy that can alter the natural history of the disease.Areas covered: The authors highlight advances in PSC, based on recent literature retrieved from PubMed until September 2020 regarding both medical and endoscopic biliary therapy.Future possibilities for treatment of PSC are discussed.Expert opinion: Biliary endoscopy is the cornerstone in the treatment of dominant strictures. Single-user peroral cholangioscopy is an emerging modality. Balloon dilatation therapy is the treatment of choice of dominant strictures. The most promising medical therapies showing efficacy in phase II trials are nor-Ursodeoxycholic acid, obethicolic acid, the non-steroidal FXR agonist Cilofexor and Aldafermin, a synthetic analogue of FGF-19. Antibiotics, particularly vancomycin have shown potential benefits, particularly in children but phase III studies are lacking. In observational studies of effects of biological therapy in patients with IBD/PSC adalimumab was associated with reduction in ALP. Results of liver transplantation are favorable but recurrence can be of clinical relevance particularly in patients transplanted before the age of 40.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einar S Björnsson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Landspitali University Hospital of Iceland
| | - Evangelos Kalaitzakis
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Heraklion, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Rethymno, Greece
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Marcus E, Stone P, Krooupa AM, Thorburn D, Vivat B. Quality of life in primary sclerosing cholangitis: a systematic review. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2021; 19:100. [PMID: 33743710 PMCID: PMC7981996 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-021-01739-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare bile duct and liver disease which can considerably impact quality of life (QoL). As part of a project developing a measure of QoL for people with PSC, we conducted a systematic review with four review questions. The first of these questions overlaps with a recently published systematic review, so this paper reports on the last three of our initial four questions: (A) How does QoL in PSC compare with other groups?, (B) Which attributes/factors are associated with impaired QoL in PSC?, (C) Which interventions are effective in improving QoL in people with PSC?. METHODS We systematically searched five databases from inception to 1 November 2020 and assessed the methodological quality of included studies using standard checklists. RESULTS We identified 28 studies: 17 for (A), ten for (B), and nine for (C). Limited evidence was found for all review questions, with few studies included in each comparison, and small sample sizes. The limited evidence available indicated poorer QoL for people with PSC compared with healthy controls, but findings were mixed for comparisons with the general population. QoL outcomes in PSC were comparable to other chronic conditions. Itch, pain, jaundice, severity of inflammatory bowel disease, liver cirrhosis, and large-duct PSC were all associated with impaired QoL. No associations were found between QoL and PSC severity measured with surrogate markers of disease progression or one of three prognostic scoring systems. No interventions were found to improve QoL outcomes. CONCLUSION The limited findings from included studies suggest that markers of disease progression used in clinical trials may not reflect the experiences of people with PSC. This highlights the importance for clinical research studies to assess QoL alongside clinical and laboratory-based outcomes. A valid and responsive PSC-specific measure of QoL, to adequately capture all issues of importance to people with PSC, would therefore be helpful for clinical research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Marcus
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK.
- University College London Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Royal Free Campus, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Paddy Stone
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Anna-Maria Krooupa
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Douglas Thorburn
- University College London Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Royal Free Campus, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
- Sheila Sherlock Liver Unit, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Bella Vivat
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
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McCain JD, Chascsa DM, Lindor KD. Assessing and managing symptom burden and quality of life in primary sclerosing cholangitis patients. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2021.1898370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Josiah D. McCain
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - David M. Chascsa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
- Department of Transplant Center, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Keith D. Lindor
- Office of University Provost, Arizona State University, Arizona, USA
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Eksteen B, Bowlus CL, Montano-Loza AJ, Lefebvre E, Fischer L, Vig P, Martins EB, Ahmad J, Yimam KK, Pockros PJ, Feld JJ, Minuk G, Levy C. Efficacy and Safety of Cenicriviroc in Patients With Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: PERSEUS Study. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:478-490. [PMID: 33681680 PMCID: PMC7917279 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic disease with no approved treatments. C-C chemokine receptor types 2 and 5 (CCR2/CCR5) play an important role in inflammation and fibrosis and are potential therapeutic targets for PSC. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of cenicriviroc (CVC), a dual antagonist of CCR2 and CCR5, for the treatment of PSC. This was a single-arm, open-label, exploratory study of CVC in adults with a clinical diagnosis of PSC, serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) ≥1.5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN), with or without inflammatory bowel disease, across eight sites in the United States and Canada. The primary endpoint was percent change in ALP over 24 weeks; key secondary efficacy endpoints were proportion of participants who achieved ALP normalization and overall response (decrease to <1.5 times the ULN or 50% decrease). Of the 24 participants, 20 completed the study. The mean age was 43 years, 50% were female, and the mean body mass index was 25 kg/m2. From a median ALP baseline of 369 U/L (range: 173, 1,377 U/L), a median absolute reduction of 49.5 U/L (range: -460, 416 U/L) was achieved at week 24, corresponding to a median reduction of 18.0% (range: -46%, 89%). No participant achieved ALP normalization or a 50% decrease; 2 participants (10%) achieved a reduction in ALP to < 1.5 times the ULN, and 4 had ≥25% increase. Twenty participants (83.3%) reported at least one adverse event; most were mild to moderate in severity. The most frequent events were rash, fatigue, and dizziness. Conclusion: After 24 weeks of CVC treatment, adults with PSC achieved a modest reduction (median 18%) in the surrogate endpoint of ALP. CVC was well tolerated, and no new safety signals were observed. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02653625.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver UnitUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonABCanada
| | | | | | | | | | - Jawad Ahmad
- Division of Liver DiseasesIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Kidist K Yimam
- Department of Hepatology and Liver TransplantationCalifornia Pacific Medical CenterSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Paul J Pockros
- Scripps Clinic and Scripps Translational Science InstituteLa JollaCAUSA
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Center for Liver DiseaseToronto General HospitalUniversity of TorontoTorontoONCanada
| | - Gerald Minuk
- John Buhler Research CenterUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegMBCanada
| | - Cynthia Levy
- Schiff Center for Liver DiseasesUniversity of MiamiMiamiFLUSA
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Deneau MR, Mack C, Mogul D, Perito ER, Valentino PL, Amir AZ, DiGuglielmo M, Draijer LG, El-Matary W, Furuya KN, Gupta N, Hochberg JT, Horslen S, Jensen MK, Jonas MM, Kerkar N, Koot BG, Laborda TJ, Lee CK, Loomes KM, Martinez M, Miethke A, Miloh T, Mohammad S, Ovchinsky N, Rao G, Ricciuto A, Sathya P, Schwarz KB, Shah U, Singh R, Vitola B, Zizzo A, Guthery SL. Oral Vancomycin, Ursodeoxycholic Acid, or No Therapy for Pediatric Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Matched Analysis. Hepatology 2021; 73:1061-1073. [PMID: 32946600 PMCID: PMC8557636 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Many children with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) receive oral vancomycin therapy (OVT) or ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). There is a paucity of data on whether these medications improve outcomes. APPROACH AND RESULTS We analyzed retrospective data from the Pediatric PSC Consortium. Children treated with OVT were matched 1:1:1 to those treated with UDCA or managed with observation (no treatment) based on the closest propensity score, ensuring similar baseline characteristics. Two hundred sixty-four patients (88 each with OVT, UDCA, or observation) had matching propensity scores and were similar in demographics, phenotype, immunosuppression, baseline biochemistry, and hepatic fibrosis. After 1 year in an intention-to-treat analysis, all outcome metrics were similar regardless of treatment group. In OVT, UDCA, and untreated groups, respectively: Gamma-glutamyltransferase normalized in 53%, 49%, and 52% (P = not significant [NS]), liver fibrosis stage was improved in 20%, 13%, and 18% and worsened in 11%, 29%, and 18% (P = NS), and the 5-year probability of liver transplant listing was 21%, 10%, and 12% (P = NS). Favorable outcome was associated with having a mild phenotype of PSC and minimal hepatic fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS We presented the largest-ever description of outcomes on OVT in PSC and compared them to carefully matched patients on UDCA or no therapy. Neither OVT nor UDCA showed improvement in outcomes compared to a strategy of observation. Patients progressed to end-stage liver disease at similar rates. Spontaneous normalization of biochemistry is common in children receiving no therapy, particularly in the majority of children with a mild phenotype and an early stage of disease. Placebo-controlled treatment trials are needed to identify effective treatments for pediatric PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark R. Deneau
- University of Utah and Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Cara Mack
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | | | | | | | - Achiya Z. Amir
- The Dana-Dwek Children’s Hospital, The Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | | | - Katryn N. Furuya
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Nitika Gupta
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | - M. Kyle Jensen
- University of Utah and Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Maureen M. Jonas
- Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Nanda Kerkar
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Bart G.P. Koot
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Trevor J. Laborda
- University of Utah and Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Christine K. Lee
- Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nadia Ovchinsky
- Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | | | | | - Pushpa Sathya
- Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Kathleen B. Schwarz
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
- University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Uzma Shah
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ruchi Singh
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | | | - Andréanne Zizzo
- London Health Sciences Center, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen L. Guthery
- University of Utah and Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT
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Prokopič M, Beuers U. Management of primary sclerosing cholangitis and its complications: an algorithmic approach. Hepatol Int 2020; 15:6-20. [PMID: 33377990 PMCID: PMC7886831 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-020-10118-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic liver disease, characterized by multiple strictures and dilatations of the intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts, leading to progressive liver fibrosis, in 10–15% cholangiocarcinoma, and ultimately end-stage liver disease. The pathogenesis is poorly understood, but (epi-)genetic factors, mechanisms of innate and adaptive immunity, toxic effects of hydrophobic bile acids, and possibly intestinal dysbiosis appear to be involved. The strong link with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with a markedly enhanced risk of colorectal cancer which next to cholangiocarcinoma represents the most serious diagnostic challenge in long-term PSC management. Despite extensive research, no medical treatment has been proven so far to prolong the time to liver transplantation (LTx), which remains the effective treatment in late-stage disease. Recurrence of PSC after LTx is observed in up to 20% of patients. Here, we briefly summarize actual views on PSC pathogenesis and provide an algorithmic approach to diagnostic procedures and recommendations for the management of PSC and its complications. We describe promising treatment options subject to current clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Prokopič
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, AGEM, C2-327, Meibergdreef 9, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Gastroenterology, Comenius University Bratislava, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, AGEM, C2-327, Meibergdreef 9, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Floreani A, De Martin S, Ikeura T, Okazaki K, Gershwin ME. Gut microbial profiling as a therapeutic and diagnostic target for managing primary biliary cholangitis. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2020.1865917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Scientific Consultant, IRCCS Negrar, Verona, Italy
- Studiosa Senior, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Tsukasa Ikeura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuichi Okazaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Merrill Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
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Successful response of primary sclerosing cholangitis and associated ulcerative colitis to oral vancomycin may depend on brand and personalized dose: report in an adolescent. Clin J Gastroenterol 2020; 14:684-689. [PMID: 33231850 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-020-01296-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare, progressive liver disease characterized by cholestasis and bile duct fibrosis that has no accepted therapy known to delay or arrest its progression. We report a 23-year-old female patient who at age 14 was diagnosed with moderate pancolonic ulcerative colitis (UC) and at age 15 with small-duct PSC unresponsive to conventional therapy. The patient began single drug therapy with the antibiotic oral vancomycin (OVT) and achieved normalization of liver enzymes and resolution of UC symptoms with colonic mucosal healing. These improvements have persisted over 8 years. There has been no colon dysplasia, liver fibrosis or failure, bile duct stricture, or cancer. Of note, the patient's response was dependent on the brand of oral vancomycin capsule, as well as dose. This raised the questions of possible differences in bioequivalence of different commercial versions of the drug and whether this factor might play into the variability of efficacy seen in published trials. Evidence suggests that oral vancomycin both alters the intestinal microbiome and has immunomodulatory effects. Its striking effectiveness in this and other patients supports further investigation in randomized trials, with careful attention to its bioavailability profile in the gut.
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Ee LC. Liver disease in the older child. J Paediatr Child Health 2020; 56:1702-1707. [PMID: 33197971 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Liver disease in children tends to present either as: (i) an acute hepatitis with or without jaundice; (ii) incidental finding of abnormal liver function tests; or (iii) from a complication of portal hypertension with either haematemesis and/or incidental splenomegaly. Acute hepatitis may result from acute infection, prescribed or other drugs, ischaemia or vascular causes, autoimmune hepatitis, or idiopathic liver failure. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is now the most likely reason for abnormal liver function tests but medications, metabolic disease, cholangiopathy and non-liver causes should be considered. Autoimmune hepatitis and alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency are the most likely causes of insidious liver disease. An international normalised ratio uncorrected by vitamin K reflects the severity of liver synthetic dysfunction, but not propensity to bleed. Creatine kinase helps to differentiate muscle from liver disease in patients with raised transaminases. Doppler ultrasound of hepatic vasculature is useful when assessing splenomegaly to differentiate extra-hepatic portal hypertension from inherent liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Looi C Ee
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplant, Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Creutzfeldt AM, Piecha F, Schattenberg JM, Schramm C, Lohse AW. Long-term outcome in PSC patients receiving azathioprine: Does immunosuppression have a positive effect on survival? J Hepatol 2020; 73:1285-1287. [PMID: 32861512 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Creutzfeldt
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Felix Piecha
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Christoph Schramm
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; European Reference Network - Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER); Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany; European Reference Network - Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
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Sahu R, Mishra R, Majee C. An insight into primary biliary cholangitis and its recent advances in treatment: semi-synthetic analogs to combat ursodeoxycholic-acid resistance. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 14:985-998. [PMID: 32674617 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2020.1797485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease which on progression causes cirrhosis; various studies also suggested that several diseases can co-exist in patients. In existing depiction of disease PBC, apart from entire use of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), several patients need to step forward to liver-transplantation or death due to resistance or non-responder with UDCA monotherapy. AREAS COVERED To overcome this non-respondent treatment, novel bile acid semi-synthetic analogs have been identified which shows their potency against for farnesoid X receptor and transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor-5 which are identified as target for many developing analogs which have desirable pharmacokinetic profiles. EXPERT OPINION A range of studies suggests that adding semisynthetic analogs in therapeutic regime improves liver biochemistries in patients with suboptimal response to UDCA. Thus, the aspire of this review is to abridge and compare therapeutic value and current markets affirm of various bile acids semi-synthetic analogs which certainly are having promising effects in PBC monotherapy or in pooled treatment with UDCA for PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sahu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute) , Greater Noida, India
| | - Rakhi Mishra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute) , Greater Noida, India
| | - Chandana Majee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute) , Greater Noida, India
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Song J, Li Y, Bowlus CL, Yang G, Leung PSC, Gershwin ME. Cholangiocarcinoma in Patients with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC): a Comprehensive Review. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2020; 58:134-149. [PMID: 31463807 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-019-08764-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the most common malignancy in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and carries a high rate of mortality. Although the pathogenesis of CCA in PSC is largely unknown, inflammation-driven carcinogenesis concomitant with various genetic and epigenetic abnormalities are underlying factors. The majority of CCA cases develop from a dominant stricture (DS), which is defined as a stricture with a diameter < 1.5 mm in the common bile duct or < 1.0 mm in the hepatic duct. In PSC patients presenting with an abrupt aggravation of jaundice, pain, fatigue, pruritus, weight loss, or worsening liver biochemistries, CCA should be suspected and evaluated utilizing a variety of diagnostic modalities. However, early recognition of CCA in PSC remains a major challenge. Importantly, 30-50% of CCA in PSC patients are observed within the first year following the diagnosis of PSC followed by an annual incidence ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 per 100 persons, which is nearly 10 to 1000 times higher than that in the general population. Cumulative 5-year, 10-year, and lifetime incidences are 7%, 8-11%, and 9-20%, respectively. When PSC-associated CCA is diagnosed, most tumors are unresectable, and no effective medications are available. Given the poor therapeutic outcome, the surveillance and management of PSC patients who are at an increased risk of developing CCA are of importance. Such patients include older males with large-duct PSC and possibly concurrent ulcerative colitis. Thus, more attention should be paid to patients with these clinical features, in particular within the first year after PSC diagnosis. In contrast, CCA is less frequently observed in pediatric or female PSC patients or in those with small-duct PSC or concurrent Crohn's disease. Recently, new biomarkers such as antibodies to glycoprotein 2 have been found to be associated with an increased risk of developing CCA in PSC. Herein, we review the literature on the pathogenesis, incidence, clinical features, and risk factors, with a focus on various diagnostic modalities of PSC-associated CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.,Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, 451 Health Science Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Christopher L Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - GuoXiang Yang
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, 451 Health Science Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Patrick S C Leung
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, 451 Health Science Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, 451 Health Science Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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Richardson N, Ng STH, Wraith DC. Antigen-Specific Immunotherapy for Treatment of Autoimmune Liver Diseases. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1586. [PMID: 32793226 PMCID: PMC7385233 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a critical organ in controlling immune tolerance. In particular, it is now clear that targeting antigens for presentation by antigen presenting cells in the liver can induce immune tolerance to either autoantigens from the liver itself or tissues outside of the liver. Here we review immune mechanisms active within the liver that contribute both to the control of infectious diseases and tolerance to self-antigens. Despite its extraordinary capacity for tolerance induction, the liver remains a target organ for autoimmune diseases. In this review, we compare and contrast known autoimmune diseases of the liver. Currently patients tend to receive strong immunosuppressive treatments and, in many cases, these treatments are associated with deleterious side effects, including a significantly higher risk of infection and associated health complications. We propose that, in future, antigen-specific immunotherapies are adopted for treatment of liver autoimmune diseases in order to avoid such adverse effects. We describe various therapeutic approaches that either are in or close to the clinic, highlight their mechanism of action and assess their suitability for treatment of autoimmune liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David C. Wraith
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Kowdley KV, Vuppalanchi R, Levy C, Floreani A, Andreone P, LaRusso NF, Shrestha R, Trotter J, Goldberg D, Rushbrook S, Hirschfield GM, Schiano T, jin Y, Pencek R, MacConell L, Shapiro D, Bowlus CL. A randomized, placebo-controlled, phase II study of obeticholic acid for primary sclerosing cholangitis. J Hepatol 2020; 73:94-101. [PMID: 32165251 PMCID: PMC8157171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare, cholestatic liver disease with no currently approved therapies. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a potent farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist approved for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis. We investigated the efficacy and safety of OCA in patients with PSC. METHODS AESOP was a phase II, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-finding study. Eligible patients were 18 to 75 years of age with a diagnosis of PSC and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) ≥2× the upper limit of normal (ULN) and total bilirubin <2.5× ULN. Patients were randomized 1:1:1 to receive placebo, OCA 1.5-3.0 mg, or OCA 5-10 mg once daily for a 24-week, double-blind phase followed by a 2-year, long-term safety extension (LTSE). Primary endpoints were change in ALP from baseline to week 24, and safety. RESULTS The intent-to-treat population comprised 76 patients randomized to placebo (n = 25), OCA 1.5-3.0 mg (n = 25), and OCA 5-10 mg (n = 26). At week 24, serum ALP was significantly reduced with OCA 5-10 mg vs. placebo (least-square [LS] mean difference = -83.4 [SE = 40.3] U/L; 95% CI -164.28 to -2.57; p = 0.043). Serum ALP was not significantly reduced with OCA 1.5-3.0 mg vs. placebo at week 24 (LS mean [SE] difference = -78.29 [41.81] U/L; 95% CI -162.08 to 5.50; p = 0.067). Total bilirubin remained comparable to baseline in all groups. The most common treatment-emergent adverse event was dose-related pruritus (placebo 46%; OCA 1.5-3.0 mg 60%; OCA 5-10 mg 67%). Reductions in ALP were maintained during the LTSE, and no new safety signals emerged. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with OCA 5-10 mg reduced serum ALP in patients with PSC. Mild to moderate dose-related pruritus was the most common adverse event. REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02177136; EudraCT: 2014-002205-38. LAY SUMMARY Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a long-term disease that damages the bile ducts in the liver over time. In the AESOP clinical study in patients with PSC, obeticholic acid reduced serum alkaline phosphatase (a potential marker of disease severity) during an initial 24-week treatment period. The result was sustained during the 2-year, long-term extension of the study. The most common side effect of obeticholic acid in the study was itchy skin, which is consistent with earlier clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kris V. Kowdley
- Liver Institute Northwest, Seattle, WA, USA,Corresponding author. Address: Liver Institute Northwest, 3216 NE 45th Place, Suite 212, Seattle, WA 98105, USA. Tel: 206-536-3030, fax: 206-524-0749. (K.V. Kowdley)
| | - Raj Vuppalanchi
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Cynthia Levy
- Division of Hepatology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Pietro Andreone
- SMECHIMAI Department, Università di Modena e Reggio-Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Nicholas F. LaRusso
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Roshan Shrestha
- Department of Transplantation, Piedmont Transplant Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James Trotter
- Division of Transplant Hepatology, Baylor University, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - David Goldberg
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Simon Rushbrook
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwich Medical School, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Thomas Schiano
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute/Division of Liver Diseases, The Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yuying jin
- Intercept Pharmaceuticals, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Christopher L. Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Manganis CD, Chapman RW, Culver EL. Review of primary sclerosing cholangitis with increased IgG4 levels. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:3126-3144. [PMID: 32684731 PMCID: PMC7336326 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i23.3126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic progressive liver disease. Sub-types of PSC have been described, most recently PSC with elevated serum and/or tissue IgG4 subclass. We aim to summarise the clinical phenotype, disease associations, differential diagnosis, response to therapy and pathogenic mechanisms underlying PSC-high IgG4 subtype. We reviewed PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase with the search terms "primary sclerosing cholangitis", "IgG4", and "IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4-SC)". Elevated serum IgG4 are found in up-to one-quarter, and abundant IgG4-plasma cell infiltrates in the liver and bile ducts are found in up-to one-fifth of PSC patients. This group have a distinct clinical phenotype, with some studies reporting a more aggressive course of liver and associated inflammatory bowel disease, compared to PSC-normal IgG4 and the disease mimic IgG4-SC. Distinguishing PSC-high IgG4 from IgG4-SC remains challenging, requiring careful assessment of clinical features, organ involvement and tissue morphology. Calculation of serum IgG4:IgG1 ratios and use of a novel IgG4:IgG RNA ratio have been reported to have excellent specificity to distinguish IgG4-SC and PSC-high IgG4 but require validation in larger cohorts. A role for corticosteroid therapy in PSC-high IgG4 remains unanswered, with concerns of increased toxicity and lack of outcome data. The immunological drivers underlying prominent IgG4 antibodies in PSC are incompletely defined. An association with PSC-high IgG4 and HLA class-II haplotypes (B*07, DRB1*15), T-helper2 and T-regulatory cytokines (IL4, IL10, IL13) and chemokines (CCL1, CCR8) have been described. PSC-high IgG4 have a distinct clinical phenotype and need careful discrimination from IgG4-SC, although response to immunosuppressive treatments and long-term outcome remains unresolved. The presence of IgG4 likely represents chronic activation to persistent antigenic exposure in genetically predisposed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis D Manganis
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit and Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Roger W Chapman
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit and Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Emma L Culver
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit and Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
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Yoh K, Nishikawa H, Enomoto H, Iwata Y, Ikeda N, Aizawa N, Nishimura T, Iijima H, Nishiguchi S. Grip Strength: A Useful Marker for Composite Hepatic Events in Patients with Chronic Liver Diseases. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10040238. [PMID: 32325995 PMCID: PMC7236004 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10040238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we sought to clarify the prognostic impact of sarcopenia-related markers (grip strength (GS), muscle mass using bioimpedance analysis and patient quality of life as assessed by the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF36)) in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLDs, n = 411; 160 liver cirrhosis patients; median age, 64 years) on the incidence of composite hepatic events (CHEs). A GS decrease was defined as <26 kg in men and <18 kg in women, while a skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) decrease was defined as <7.0 kg/m2 in men and <5.7 kg/m2 in women based on the current guidelines. The physical and metal component summary scores on the SF36 were also included into the analysis. Sixty-two patients (15.1%) had the first incidence of CHEs. The three-year cumulative incidence rates of CHEs in patients with GS decrease or non-decrease were 24.51% and 12.44% (p = 0.0057). The three-year cumulative incidence rates of CHEs in patients with an SMI decrease or non-decrease were 19.65% and 12.99% (p = 0.0982). Multivariate analysis revealed that GS decrease (p = 0.0350) and prothrombin time (p = 0.0293) were significantly associated with the incidence of CHEs. In conclusion, GS can be an independent predictor for CHE development in patients with CLDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Yoh
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Hiroki Nishikawa
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
- Center for Clinical Research and Education, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-798-45-6111; Fax: +81-798-45-6608
| | - Hirayuki Enomoto
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Yoshinori Iwata
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Naoto Ikeda
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Nobuhiro Aizawa
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Takashi Nishimura
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Hiroko Iijima
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Shuhei Nishiguchi
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan; (K.Y.); (H.E.); (Y.I.); (N.I.); (N.A.); (T.N.); (H.I.); (S.N.)
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