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Longhi MS, Zhang L, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. B and T cells: (Still) the dominant orchestrators in autoimmune hepatitis. Autoimmun Rev 2024:103591. [PMID: 39117005 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2024.103591] [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: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe hepatopathy characterized by hypergammaglobulinemia, presence of serum autoantibodies and histological appearance of interface hepatitis. Liver damage in AIH is initiated by the presentation of a liver autoantigen to uncommitted Th0 lymphocytes, followed by a cascade of effector immune responses culminating with the production of inflammatory cytokines, activation of cytotoxic cells and subsequent hepatocyte injury. B cells actively participate in AIH liver damage by presenting autoantigens to uncommitted T lymphocytes. B cells also undergo maturation into plasma cells that are responsible for production of immunoglobulin G and autoantibodies, which mediate antibody dependent cell cytotoxicity. Perpetuation of effector immunity with consequent progression of liver damage is permitted by impairment in regulatory T cells (Tregs), a lymphocyte subset central to the maintenance of immune homeostasis. Treg impairment in AIH is multifactorial, deriving from numerical decrease, reduced suppressive function, poor response to IL-2 and less stable phenotype. In this review, we discuss the role of B and T lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of AIH. Immunotherapeutic strategies that could limit inflammation and halt disease progression while reconstituting tolerance to liver autoantigens are also reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serena Longhi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Lina Zhang
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA; School of Arts and Sciences, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Liver Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Liver Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
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2
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Yüksekyayla O, Kina N, Ulaba A, Emin Ergün M, Batibay E, Şimşek C, Yildiz Zeyrek F, Wahlin S, Efe C. The frequency and clinical significance of antibodies to soluble liver antigen/liver pancreas in autoimmune hepatitis: a prospective single-center study. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 36:652-656. [PMID: 38477840 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Soluble liver antigen/liver pancreas antibodies (anti-SLA/LP) are specific markers for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) that have been associated with a distinct clinical phenotype and a more aggressive form of AIH. We prospectively evaluated the frequency and clinical significance of anti-SLA/LP in Turkish patients with AIH. MATERIAL AND METHODS We prospectively included patients diagnosed with AIH between January 2018 and May 2023. Autoantibodies were detected using by immunofluorescence and immunoblot. RESULTS We included 61 (80%, female) AIH patients with a median age of 31 years (15-78) at the time of diagnosis. Anti-SLA/LP was detected in 20% ( n = 12) of the patients. Baseline characteristics, treatment responses and outcomes were similar among anti-SLA/LP-positive and anti-SLA/LP-negative AIH patients. Anti-SLA/LP-positive patients had significantly higher biochemical response rates after 4 weeks (100 vs. 67%, P = 0.027), 3 months (100 vs. 39%, P < 0.001), 6 months (100 vs. 69%, P = 0.041) of therapy but not after 12 months (100 vs. 76%, P = 0.103) and at the end of follow-up (100 vs. 91%, P = 0.328). Relapse rates following treatment response were similar in patients with and without anti-SLA/LP (22 vs. 23%, P = 0.956). Second-line therapies (tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil) were given to seven (11%) patients, all were anti-SLA/LP-negative. Two of these progressed into end-stage liver disease and both underwent liver transplantation. CONCLUSION Our study results suggest that anti-SLA/LP positivity does not entail clinically distinct or severe features in AIH. In our cohort, anti-SLA/LP-positive patients showed a quicker response to immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Arjen Ulaba
- Department of Microbiology, Harran University, Şanliurfa
| | | | | | - Cem Şimşek
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Staffan Wahlin
- Hepatology Division, Department of Upper GI Diseases, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Flikshteyn B, Amer K, Tafesh Z, Pyrsopoulos NT. Diagnosis of Autoimmune Hepatitis. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:37-50. [PMID: 37945161 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.06.004] [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
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) presents a diagnostic challenge because it is relatively rare and heterogenous in presentation. This article presents the currently adopted approach to AIH diagnosis and explores the challenges with accurately identifying this disease entity. AIH offers no pathognomonic findings, instead relies on clinical presentation, serology, and histology to make the diagnosis. Diagnostic scoring systems support clinical judgment and serve as valuable tools in diagnosis and research. Histological analysis remains the cornerstone of diagnosis and to this day biopsy is essential to make the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Flikshteyn
- Rutgers New Jersey School of Medicine, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H-538, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
| | - Kamal Amer
- Rutgers New Jersey School of Medicine, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H-538, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Zaid Tafesh
- Rutgers New Jersey School of Medicine, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H-538, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Nikolaos T Pyrsopoulos
- Rutgers New Jersey School of Medicine, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H-538, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
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Genetic Variants Determine Treatment Response in Autoimmune Hepatitis. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13030540. [PMID: 36983720 PMCID: PMC10052918 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13030540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare entity; in addition, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may impact its course and outcome. We investigated liver-related SNPs regarding its activity, as well as in relation to its stage and treatment response in a Central European AIH cohort. Methods: A total of 113 AIH patients (i.e., 30 male/83 female, median 57.9 years) were identified. In 81, genotyping of PNPLA3-rs738409, MBOAT7-rs626238, TM6SF2-rs58542926, and HSD17B13-rs72613567:TA, as well as both biochemical and clinical data at baseline and follow-up, were available. Results: The median time of follow-up was 2.8 years; five patients died and one underwent liver transplantation. The PNPLA3-G/G homozygosity was linked to a worse treatment response when compared to wildtype [wt] (ALT 1.7 vs. 0.6 × ULN, p < 0.001). The MBOAT7-C/C homozygosity was linked to non-response vs. wt and heterozygosity (p = 0.022). Male gender was associated with non-response (OR 14.5, p = 0.012) and a higher prevalence of PNPLA3 (G/G vs. C/G vs. wt 41.9/40.0/15.0% males, p = 0.03). The MBOAT7 wt was linked to less histological fibrosis (p = 0.008), while no effects for other SNPs were noted. A polygenic risk score was utilized comprising all the SNPs and correlated with the treatment response (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Our data suggest that genetic risk variants impact the treatment response of AIH in a gene-dosage-dependent manner. Furthermore, MBOAT7 and PNPLA3 mediated most of the observed effects, the latter explaining, in part, the predisposition of male subjects to worse treatment responses.
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Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver of unknown cause that may progress to liver cirrhosis and end stage liver failure if diagnosis is overlooked and treatment delayed. The clinical presentation is often that of acute hepatitis, sometimes very severe; less frequently, it can be insidious or completely asymptomatic. The disease can affect people of any age and is more common in women; its incidence and prevalence seem to be on the rise worldwide. An abnormal immune response targeting liver autoantigens and inducing persistent and self-perpetuating liver inflammation is the pathogenic mechanism of the disease. A specific set of autoantibodies, increased IgG concentrations, and histological demonstration of interface hepatitis and periportal necrosis are the diagnostic hallmarks of autoimmune hepatitis. Prompt response to treatment with corticosteroids and other immunomodulatory drugs is almost universal and supports the diagnosis. The aims of treatment are to induce and maintain long term remission of liver inflammation. Treatment can often even reverse liver fibrosis, thus preventing progression to advanced cirrhosis and its complications. Most patients need lifelong maintenance therapy, and repeated follow-up in experienced hands improves the quality of care and quality of life for affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Muratori
- DIMEC, Università di Bologna and IRCCS Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna, Italy
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
| | - Marco Lenzi
- DIMEC, Università di Bologna and IRCCS Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna, Italy
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
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Ahuja N, Singh J, Minz RW, Anand S, Das A, Taneja S. HLA and Non-HLA gene polymorphisms in autoimmune hepatitis patients of North Indian adults. Front Immunol 2023; 13:984083. [PMID: 36741403 PMCID: PMC9891307 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.984083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic and progressive disease of the liver. This is a multifactorial autoimmune disease with both environmental factors and genetic factors playing a role in its pathogenesis. Certain environmental agents like viruses, drugs, etc., can trigger the disease in a genetically susceptible individual. The present study was aimed to explore the distribution of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1, Protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22 (PTPN22) and Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) polymorphisms in North Indian adult AIH patients and their associations with clinical and pathological characteristics associated with the disease. A total of 147 subjects with 47 cases and 100 healthy controls were enrolled. Diagnosis of AIH was made by Revised International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group scoring system. HLA-DRB1 Typing was done by Luminex-based reverse Sequence-Specific Oligonucleotide Probing (SSOP). Single nucleotide variant (SNV) genotyping for CTLA-4 and PTPN22 was done by simple probe-based SNP arrays. Results indicated SLA positive AIH patients are poor responders to therapy. A significant predispositional association of HLA-DRB1*03 was observed in AIH patients from the North Indian population (p= 0.0001, OR=4.83 (2.30-10.15). The frequency of the GG genotype of CTLA-4 CT 60 was significantly increased in AIH patients compared to controls. Multinomial analysis showed that CTLA-4 CT 60 is an independent predictor for cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishtha Ahuja
- Department of Histopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Jagdeep Singh
- Department of Immunopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ranjana Walker Minz
- Department of Immunopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India,*Correspondence: Ranjana Walker Minz,
| | - Shashi Anand
- Department of Immunopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ashim Das
- Department of Histopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sunil Taneja
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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Yang F, Zhou L, Shen Y, Zhao S, Zheng Y, Men R, Fan X, Yang L. Metabolic heterogeneity caused by HLA-DRB1*04:05 and protective effect of inosine on autoimmune hepatitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:982186. [PMID: 35990653 PMCID: PMC9389112 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.982186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an autoimmune disease caused by disruption of liver immune homeostasis. Genetic studies have revealed the predisposition of AIH with the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region. Recently, metabolomics integrated with genomics has identified many genetic loci of biomedical interest. However, there is no related report in AIH. In the present study, we found that HLA-DRB1*04:05 was linked to the clinical features and prognosis of AIH in Chinese patients. Furthermore, our patients were divided into DRB1*04:05 positive and DRB1*04:05 negative groups and the metabolic profiling was done by HPLC/MS. We chose inosine, one of the highly altered metabolites, to explore the effect on an acute severe hepatitis murine model. The results showed that inosine treatment attenuated hepatocyte apoptosis, enhanced antioxidant ability and inhibited the activation and glycolysis of CD4+ T cell. We propose that inosine participates in the regulation of AIH through its protective effect on hepatocytes and inhibition of overactivated immune cells, which might provide a potential novel approach in treating acute form of AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Li Yang
- *Correspondence: Li Yang, ; Xiaoli Fan,
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmmune hepatitis. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:158-176. [PMID: 34580437 PMCID: PMC8475398 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00768-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a T-cell mediated, inflammatory liver disease affecting all ages and characterized by female preponderance, elevated serum transaminase and immunoglobulin G levels, positive circulating autoantibodies, and presence of interface hepatitis at liver histology. AIH type 1, affecting both adults and children, is defined by positive anti-nuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle antibodies, while type 2 AIH, affecting mostly children, is defined by positive anti-liver-kidney microsomal type 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibody. While the autoantigens of type 2 AIH are well defined, being the cytochrome P4502D6 (CYP2D6) and the formiminotransferase cyclodeaminase (FTCD), in type 1 AIH they remain to be identified. AIH-1 predisposition is conferred by possession of the MHC class II HLA DRB1*03 at all ages, while DRB1*04 predisposes to late onset disease; AIH-2 is associated with possession of DRB1*07 and DRB1*03. The majority of patients responds well to standard immunosuppressive treatment, based on steroid and azathioprine; second- and third-line drugs should be considered in case of intolerance or insufficient response. This review offers a comprehensive overview of pathophysiological and clinical aspects of AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli
- Epatocentro Ticino & Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland.
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Bellinzona, Switzerland.
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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9
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmune Hepatitis: Serum Autoantibodies in Clinical Practice. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2022; 63:124-137. [PMID: 34491531 PMCID: PMC9464171 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-021-08888-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Circulating autoantibodies are a key diagnostic tool in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), being positive in 95% of the cases if tested according to dedicated guidelines issued by the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group. They also allow the distinction between type 1 AIH, characterized by positive anti-nuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle antibody, and type 2 AIH, characterized by positive anti-liver kidney microsomal type 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibody. Anti-soluble liver antigen is the only AIH-specific autoantibody, and is found in 20-30% of both type 1 and type 2 AIH. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody is frequently positive in type 1 AIH, being associated also with inflammatory bowel disease and with primary/autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis. The reference method for autoantibody testing remains indirect immunofluorescence on triple tissue (rodent liver, kidney and stomach), allowing both the detection of the majority of liver-relevant reactivities, including those autoantibodies whose molecular target antigens are unknown. Of note, the current knowledge of the clinical significance of autoantibodies relies on studies based on this technique. However, immunofluorescence requires trained laboratory personnel, is observer-dependent, and lacks standardization, leading to ongoing attempts at replacing this method with automated assays, the sensitivity, and specificity of which, however, require further studies before they can be used as a reliable alternative to immunofluorescence; currently, they may be used as complementary to immunofluorescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli
- grid.29078.340000 0001 2203 2861Epatocentro Ticino & Facoltà Di Scienze Biomediche, Università Della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland ,grid.29078.340000 0001 2203 2861Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Bellinzona, Switzerland ,grid.46699.340000 0004 0391 9020King’s College London Faculty of Life Sciences &, Medicine At King’s College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- grid.46699.340000 0004 0391 9020King’s College London Faculty of Life Sciences &, Medicine At King’s College Hospital, London, UK ,grid.46699.340000 0004 0391 9020Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King’s College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- grid.46699.340000 0004 0391 9020King’s College London Faculty of Life Sciences &, Medicine At King’s College Hospital, London, UK ,grid.46699.340000 0004 0391 9020Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King’s College Hospital, London, UK
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10
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Vuerich M, Wang N, Kalbasi A, Graham JJ, Longhi MS. Dysfunctional Immune Regulation in Autoimmune Hepatitis: From Pathogenesis to Novel Therapies. Front Immunol 2021; 12:746436. [PMID: 34650567 PMCID: PMC8510512 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.746436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by hypergammaglobulinemia, presence of serum autoantibodies and histological features of interface hepatitis. AIH therapeutic management still relies on the administration of corticosteroids, azathioprine and other immunosuppressants like calcineurin inhibitors and mycophenolate mofetil. Withdrawal of immunosuppression often results in disease relapse, and, in some cases, therapy is ineffective or associated with serious side effects. Understanding the mechanisms underlying AIH pathogenesis is therefore of paramount importance to develop more effective and well tolerated agents capable of restoring immunotolerance to liver autoantigens. Imbalance between effector and regulatory cells permits liver damage perpetuation and progression in AIH. Impaired expression and regulation of CD39, an ectoenzyme key to immunotolerance maintenance, have been reported in Tregs and effector Th17-cells derived from AIH patients. Interference with these altered immunoregulatory pathways may open new therapeutic avenues that, in addition to limiting aberrant inflammatory responses, would also reconstitute immune homeostasis. In this review, we highlight the most recent findings in AIH immunopathogenesis and discuss how these could inform and direct the development of novel therapeutic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Vuerich
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.,School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ahmadreza Kalbasi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jonathon J Graham
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria Serena Longhi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Hu CJ, Li MT, Li X, Peng LY, Zhang SZ, Leng XM, Su JM, Zeng XF. CD74 auto-antibodies display little clinical value in Chinese Han population with axial spondyloarthritis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e23433. [PMID: 33327271 PMCID: PMC7738092 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000023433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The European cohort study has indicated about CD74 IgG-autoantibodies as potential marker for axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) diagnosis. However, multiple studies have questioned the diagnostic value of various disease-specific autoantibodies in different ethnic groups. Here, we have tried to assess the diagnostic value of anti-CD74 IgG and IgA autoantibodies in axSpA patients from Chinese Han population.The anti-CD74 IgG and IgA autoantibodies were analyzed using ELISA assay in a cohort of 97 axSpA patients, including 47 treatment-naïve axSpA patients never treated with steroids or immunosuppressants and 50 treated axSpA patients. The rheumatic disease control (RDC) group consisted of 40 rheumatoid arthritis, 25 systemic lupus erythematosus, 18 psoriatic arthritis patients, and 60 healthy controls (HC).Our data demonstrated the presence of anti-CD74 IgA auto-antibodies in 25.8% of the axSpA patients, 30.1% of the RDC group patients and none in HC. Similarly, anti-CD74 IgG autoantibodies were observed in 23.7% of the axSpA patients, 18.1% of the RDC patients and 18.3% of the HC. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of IgA autoantibodies were 21.3%, 82.5%, & 67.4%, respectively, while for IgG, it was 27.7%, 81.8%, and 68.4%, in treatment-naïve axSpA patients. Furthermore, weak positive relationship between anti-CD74 IgA autoantibodies and bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index ( r = 0.253, P = .012) and functional index (bath ankylosing spondylitis functional index; r = 0.257, P = .011) was observed.Overall, our study demonstrated little clinical and predictive value of CD74 autoantibodies in the diagnosis of axSpA and its related manifestations, among Chinese Han population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Jun Hu
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing
| | - Meng-Tao Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing
| | - Xi Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Lin-Yi Peng
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing
| | - Shang-Zhu Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing
| | - Xiao-Mei Leng
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing
| | - Jin-Mei Su
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing
| | - Xiao-Feng Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing
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12
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Mack CL, Adams D, Assis DN, Kerkar N, Manns MP, Mayo MJ, Vierling JM, Alsawas M, Murad MH, Czaja AJ. Diagnosis and Management of Autoimmune Hepatitis in Adults and Children: 2019 Practice Guidance and Guidelines From the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology 2020; 72:671-722. [PMID: 31863477 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 429] [Impact Index Per Article: 107.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cara L Mack
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - David Adams
- Centre for Liver Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - David N Assis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Nanda Kerkar
- Golisano Children's Hospital at Strong, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marlyn J Mayo
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas SW Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - John M Vierling
- Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | | | - Mohammad H Murad
- Mayo Knowledge and Encounter Research Unit, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN
| | - Albert J Czaja
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN
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Di Giorgio A, Hadzic N, Dhawan A, Deheragoda M, Heneghan MA, Vergani D, Mieli-Vergani G, Samyn M. Seamless Management of Juvenile Autoimmune Liver Disease: Long-Term Medical and Social Outcome. J Pediatr 2020; 218:121-129.e3. [PMID: 31955873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report baseline features and long-term medical/social outcomes of juvenile autoimmune liver disease, including autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC), managed in a single tertiary center. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study of children diagnosed in 2000-2004 with AIH/ASC followed up to date. Patients with abnormal cholangiogram were classified as ASC. Presentation and outcome features were compared. RESULTS Eighty-three children were included (42 female, median age 12.1 years [8.5-14.1 years], AIH = 54, ASC = 29). Most (65%) had antinuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle autoantibodies; 6% presented with acute liver failure; 29% had histologic evidence of cirrhosis. The 1999 and simplified International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group criteria failed to diagnose up to 26% of patients with AIH and 48% with ASC, and the proposed the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition criteria were accurate. Response to treatment was excellent with 95% achieving normal transaminase levels. During follow-up, 31% had at least 1 relapse episode; 3 patients with AIH developed cholangiopathy and 5 patients with ASC developed progressive bile duct injury. At last follow-up (median of 14.5 years, 10.4-16.8), 99% were alive, 11 underwent transplantation and 1 is listed for transplant. Five-, 10-, and 15-year transplant-free survival rates were 95%, 88%, and 83%; patients with ASC and those relapsing being more likely to require transplant. Social outcome was excellent with 93% in employment/education. CONCLUSIONS Seamless management of juvenile autoimmune liver disease leads to excellent clinical and social outcomes. Despite good response to immunosuppressive treatment, patients with ASC have a worse prognosis than those with AIH. Diagnostic models developed for adults are unsatisfactory to correctly diagnose juvenile autoimmune liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Di Giorgio
- Pediatric Liver, Gastrointestinal, and Nutrition Center, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Pediatric Liver, Gastrointestinal, and Transplantation, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy.
| | - Nedim Hadzic
- Pediatric Liver, Gastrointestinal, and Nutrition Center, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anil Dhawan
- Pediatric Liver, Gastrointestinal, and Nutrition Center, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maesha Deheragoda
- Histopathology Department, Institute of Liver Studies King's College Hospital London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Heneghan
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Diego Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Institute of Liver Studies, Mowat Labs King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Pediatric Liver, Gastrointestinal, and Nutrition Center, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Institute of Liver Studies, Mowat Labs King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marianne Samyn
- Pediatric Liver, Gastrointestinal, and Nutrition Center, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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Zachou K, Weiler-Normann C, Muratori L, Muratori P, Lohse AW, Dalekos GN. Permanent immunosuppression in SLA/LP-positive autoimmune hepatitis is required although overall response and survival are similar. Liver Int 2020; 40:368-376. [PMID: 31626725 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Antibodies against soluble liver antigen/liver pancreas (anti-SLA/LP) are highly specific for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and have been linked with a more severe clinical course of the disease, frequent relapses after treatment withdrawal and worse outcome. To address definitely the clinical significance of anti-SLA/LP, we investigated a large number of anti-SLA/LP-positive and -negative patients followed in three referral centres. METHODS Prospectively collected data from 89 anti-SLA/LP-positive AIH patients (29 from Hamburg-Germany, 20 from Bologna-Italy and 40 from Larissa-Greece) were analysed retrospectively. Age- and sex-matched anti-SLA/LP-negative patients served as disease controls (n = 230; 1:2.5 ratio). RESULTS In respect to baseline characteristics, anti-SLA/LP-positive patients were more frequently asymptomatic compared to anti-SLA/LP-negative (P < .05). However, anti-SLA/LP-positive patients did not differ from anti-SLA/LP-negative in terms of the overall response to treatment, disease progression and survival even though, they were less likely to achieve corticosteroid withdrawal (P < .05), needed longer treatment duration to achieve first complete response (P < .001) and relapsed more frequently after treatment withdrawal compared to anti-SLA/LP-negative patients (P = <.001). CONCLUSIONS We showed that anti-SLA/LP antibodies do not characterize a group of AIH patients with distinct features and cannot identify patients with a more severe form of the disease or worse survival. Most importantly, however, anti-SLA/LP-positive patients appear to require lifelong immunosuppression as they are less likely to achieve the cessation of corticosteroids and present higher relapse rates after treatment withdrawal. Therefore, close long-term monitoring should be advised in all anti-SLA/LP-positive patients after withdrawal of immunosuppressive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Luigi Muratori
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Muratori
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - George N Dalekos
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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15
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Autoimmune Hepatitis-Immunologically Triggered Liver Pathogenesis-Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies. J Immunol Res 2019; 2019:9437043. [PMID: 31886312 PMCID: PMC6899271 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9437043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe liver disease that arises in genetically predisposed male and female individuals worldwide. Diagnosis of AIH is made clinically applying diagnostic scores; however, the heterotopic disease phenotype often makes a rapid determination of disease challenging. AIH responds favorably to steroids and pharmacologic immunosuppression, and liver transplantation is only necessary in cases with acute liver failure or end-stage liver cirrhosis. Recurrence or development of de novo AIH after transplantation is possible, and treatment is similar to standard AIH therapy. Current experimental investigations of T cell-mediated autoimmune pathways and analysis of changes within the intestinal microbiome might advance our knowledge on the pathogenesis of AIH and trigger a spark of hope for novel therapeutic strategies.
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16
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Webb GJ, Hirschfield GM, Krawitt EL, Gershwin ME. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Autoimmune Hepatitis. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2019; 13:247-292. [PMID: 29140756 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-020117-043534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is an uncommon idiopathic syndrome of immune-mediated destruction of hepatocytes, typically associated with autoantibodies. The disease etiology is incompletely understood but includes a clear association with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) variants and other non-HLA gene variants, female sex, and the environment. Pathologically, there is a CD4+ T cell-rich lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate with variable hepatocyte necrosis and subsequent hepatic fibrosis. Attempts to understand pathogenesis are informed by several monogenetic syndromes that may include autoimmune liver injury, by several drug and environmental agents that have been identified as triggers in a minority of cases, by human studies that point toward a central role for CD4+ effector and regulatory T cells, and by animal models of the disease. Nonspecific immunosuppression is the current standard therapy. Further understanding of the disease's cellular and molecular mechanisms may assist in the design of better-targeted therapies, aid the limitation of adverse effects from therapy, and inform individualized risk assessment and prognostication.
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Affiliation(s)
- G J Webb
- National Institute for Health Research Liver Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom; ,
| | - G M Hirschfield
- National Institute for Health Research Liver Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom; ,
| | - E L Krawitt
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont 05405, USA; .,Department of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire 03755, USA
| | - M E Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California 95817, USA;
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17
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Dalekos GN, Koskinas J, Papatheodoridis GV. Hellenic Association for the Study of the Liver Clinical Practice Guidelines: Autoimmune hepatitis. Ann Gastroenterol 2019; 32:1-23. [PMID: 30598587 PMCID: PMC6302199 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2018.0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a relatively rare acute or chronic liver disease of unknown etiology characterized by large heterogeneity. Its distribution is global, covering all ages, both sexes and all ethnic groups. The aim of the present Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) of the Hellenic Association for the Study of the Liver was to provide updated guidance and help to gastroenterologists, hepatologists, internists and general practitioners for AIH diagnosis and management. AIH diagnosis is based on clinicopathological characteristics: namely, polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia, particularly of immunoglobulin G (IgG), circulating autoantibodies, interface hepatitis on liver histology, absence of viral hepatitis, and a favorable response to immunosuppression. Clinical manifestations at disease onset are variable, ranging from asymptomatic to the acute/severe form. Aminotransferase and bilirubin levels vary, while the presence of hepatitis at the histological level is a prerequisite for diagnosis. Autoantibodies are the hallmark for AIH diagnosis; therefore, the CPG describe the appropriate serological algorithm for their detection. AIH therapy should aim to achieve complete biochemical (normalization of IgG and aminotransferases) and histological remission. All patients who have active disease, even those with cirrhosis, should be treated with individualized and response-guided induction therapy using prednisolone in combination with azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil as first-line therapy. Immunosuppression should be given for at least 3 years and for at least 2 years after the achievement of complete biochemical response, while a liver biopsy should be recommended before treatment discontinuation. Current CPG are also provided for several specific conditions and difficult-to-treat patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N. Dalekos
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Larissa (George N. Dalekos)
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa (George N. Dalekos)
| | - John Koskinas
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, “Hippokratio” General Hospital of Athens, Athens (John Koskinas)
| | - George V. Papatheodoridis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Medical School of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, “Laiko” General Hospital of Athens, Athens (George V. Papatheodoridis), Greece
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18
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Juvenile autoimmune hepatitis: A comprehensive review. J Autoimmun 2018; 95:69-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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19
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. The clinical usage and definition of autoantibodies in immune-mediated liver disease: A comprehensive overview. J Autoimmun 2018; 95:144-158. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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20
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Gambino CM, Aiello A, Accardi G, Caruso C, Candore G. Autoimmune diseases and 8.1 ancestral haplotype: An update. HLA 2018; 92:137-143. [PMID: 29877054 DOI: 10.1111/tan.13305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present review is to provide an update of the current research into the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases associated with 8.1 ancestral haplotype. This is a common Caucasoid haplotype carried by most people who type for HLA-B8, DR3. Numerous genetic studies reported that individuals with certain HLA alleles have a higher risk of specific autoimmune disorders than those without these alleles. However, much remains to be learned about the heritability of autoimmune conditions. Recently, progress and advances in the field of genome-wide-association studies have revolutionized the capacity to perform large, economically feasible, and statistically robust analyses of HLA within 8.1 ancestral haplotype, and understand its contribute to autoimmune events. In this paper, the characteristic features of this haplotype that might give rise to diverse autoimmune phenotypes are reviewed, focusing on the contribution of the HLA-DRB1 gene, the most polymorphic sequence within the HLA II region.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Gambino
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Biotechnologies (Di.Bi.Med.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - A Aiello
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Biotechnologies (Di.Bi.Med.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - G Accardi
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Biotechnologies (Di.Bi.Med.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - C Caruso
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Biotechnologies (Di.Bi.Med.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - G Candore
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Biotechnologies (Di.Bi.Med.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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21
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Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D, Czaja AJ, Manns MP, Krawitt EL, Vierling JM, Lohse AW, Montano-Loza AJ. Autoimmune hepatitis. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2018; 4:18017. [PMID: 29644994 DOI: 10.1038/nrdp.2018.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe liver disease that affects children and adults worldwide. The diagnosis of AIH relies on increased serum transaminase and immunoglobulin G levels, presence of autoantibodies and interface hepatitis on liver histology. AIH arises in genetically predisposed individuals when a trigger, such as exposure to a virus, leads to a T cell-mediated autoimmune response directed against liver autoantigens; this immune response is permitted by inadequate regulatory immune control leading to a loss of tolerance. AIH responds favourably to immunosuppressive treatment, which should be started as soon as the diagnosis is made. Standard regimens include fairly high initial doses of corticosteroids (prednisone or prednisolone), which are tapered gradually as azathioprine is introduced. For those patients who do not respond to standard treatment, second-line drugs should be considered, including mycophenolate mofetil, calcineurin inhibitors, mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors and biologic agents, which should be administered only in specialized hepatology centres. Liver transplantation is a life-saving option for those who progress to end-stage liver disease, although AIH can recur or develop de novo after transplantation. In-depth investigation of immune pathways and analysis of changes to the intestinal microbiota should advance our knowledge of the pathogenesis of AIH and lead to novel, tailored and better tolerated therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, SE5 9RS London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, SE5 9RS London, UK
| | - Albert J Czaja
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Edward L Krawitt
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA.,Department of Medicine, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - John M Vierling
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation and Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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22
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Christen U, Hintermann E. Autoantibodies in Autoimmune Hepatitis: Can Epitopes Tell Us about the Etiology of the Disease? Front Immunol 2018; 9:163. [PMID: 29503645 PMCID: PMC5820307 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are serious autoimmune liver diseases that are characterized by a progressive destruction of the liver parenchyma and/or the hepatic bile ducts and the development of chronic fibrosis. Left untreated autoimmune liver diseases are often life-threatening, and patients require a liver transplantation to survive. Thus, an early and reliable diagnosis is paramount for the initiation of a proper therapy with immunosuppressive and/or anticholelithic drugs. Besides the analysis of liver biopsies and serum markers indicating liver damage, the screening for specific autoantibodies is an indispensable tool for the diagnosis of autoimmune liver diseases. Such liver autoantigen-specific antibodies might be involved in the disease pathogenesis, and their epitope specificity may give some insight into the etiology of the disease. Here, we will mainly focus on the generation and specificity of autoantibodies in AIH patients. In addition, we will review data from animal models that aim toward a better understanding of the origins and pathogenicity of such autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urs Christen
- Pharmazentrum Frankfurt/ZAFES, Goethe University Hospital, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Edith Hintermann
- Pharmazentrum Frankfurt/ZAFES, Goethe University Hospital, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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23
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[Autoimmune hepatitis in the pediatric age]. BOLETIN MEDICO DEL HOSPITAL INFANTIL DE MEXICO 2018; 74:324-333. [PMID: 29382475 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmhimx.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In pediatrics, autoimmune hepatitis and sclerosing cholangitis are liver disorders with an immunological damage mechanism. Autoimmune hepatitis is a disease of unknown etiology characterized by interface hepatitis, hypergammaglobulinemia, circulating autoantibodies and a favorable response to immunosuppression. It is an eminently pediatric disease with a prevalent condition in young women. Therapy should be instituted promptly to prevent rapid deterioration, promote remission of disease and long-term survival. The persistent lack of response or lack of adherence to treatment results in terminal liver failure; these patients, and those with fulminant hepatic insufficiency at the time of diagnosis, will require liver transplantation.
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24
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Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D, Baumann U, Czubkowski P, Debray D, Dezsofi A, Fischler B, Gupte G, Hierro L, Indolfi G, Jahnel J, Smets F, Verkade HJ, Hadžić N. Diagnosis and Management of Pediatric Autoimmune Liver Disease: ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee Position Statement. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2018; 66:345-360. [PMID: 29356770 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000001801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Paediatric autoimmune liver disease is characterized by inflammatory liver histology, circulating autoantibodies, and increased levels of IgG, in the absence of a known etiology. Three conditions have a likely autoimmune pathogenesis: autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis, and de novo AIH after liver transplantation. Two types of pediatric AIH are recognized according to seropositivity for smooth muscle and/or antinuclear antibody (AIH-1) or liver kidney microsomal type 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibodies (AIH-2).Pertinent issues addressing the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term follow-up were formulated by a core group of ESPGHAN members. They have commissioned the first authors with execution of this project. Initially, they have performed a systematic literature search on MEDLINE, ResearchGate, and Mendeley databases during the last 30 years and produced a document focusing on prospective and retrospective studies in children. The ESPGHAN core group and ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee members voted on each recommendation, using a formal voting technique.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diego Vergani
- MowatLabs, Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ulrich Baumann
- Pädiatrische Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Medizinische Hochschule, Hannover, Germany
| | - Piotr Czubkowski
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutrition Disturbances and Pediatrics, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominique Debray
- Pediatric Hepatology Unit, AP-HP-Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Antal Dezsofi
- First Department of Paediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Björn Fischler
- Department of Pediatrics, Karolinska University Hospital, CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Girish Gupte
- Liver Unit (Including Small Bowel Transplantation), Department of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Loreto Hierro
- Hospital Infantil Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Giuseppe Indolfi
- Paediatric and Liver Unit, Meyer Children's University Hospital of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Jörg Jahnel
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Françoise Smets
- UCL, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Henkjan J Verkade
- Dept of Pediatrics, Center for Liver, Digestive, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Nedim Hadžić
- MowatLabs, Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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25
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Serology in autoimmune hepatitis: A clinical-practice approach. Eur J Intern Med 2018; 48:35-43. [PMID: 29056396 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Serology is key to the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Clinicians need to be aware of which tests to request, how to interpret the laboratory reports, and be familiar with the laboratory methodology. If correctly tested, >95% of AIH patients show some serological reactivity. Indirect immunofluorescence on triple rodent tissue is recommended as first screening step, since it allows the detection of all liver-relevant autoantibodies, except for anti-soluble liver antigen (SLA) antibody, which needs to be detected by molecular based assays. The threshold of immunofluorescence positivity is a titer equal or exceeding 1/40, but for patients younger than 18years even lower titers are clinically significant. Anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) and/or anti-smooth muscle (SMA) antibody characterize type 1 AIH. ANA in AIH typically shows a homogeneous staining pattern on HEp2 cells, without any specific target antigen. Anti-SMA displays different staining patterns on indirect immunofluorescence: the vascular/glomerular (VG) and the vascular/glomerular/tubular (VGT) patterns are considered specific for AIH, whilst the V pattern can be found in a variety of diseases. Type 2 AIH, which is rare and affects mostly children/adolescents, is characterized by anti-liver kidney microsomal 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol 1 antibodies. The presence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA), particularly atypical p-ANCA (pANNA), points to the diagnosis of AIH, especially in absence of other autoantibodies. Since it is associated with sclerosing cholangitis and inflammatory bowel disease, these conditions have to be ruled out. The only antibody specific for AIH is anti-SLA, which is associated with a more severe disease course.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK.
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26
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Brahim I, Brahim I, Hazime R, Admou B. [Autoimmune hepatitis: Immunological diagnosis]. Presse Med 2017; 46:1008-1019. [PMID: 28919271 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2017.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatopathies (AIHT) including autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and autoimmune cholangitis (AIC), represent an impressive entities in clinical practice. Their pathogenesis is not perfectly elucidated. Several factors are involved in the initiation of hepatic autoimmune and inflammatory phenomena such as genetic predisposition, molecular mimicry and/or abnormalities of T-regulatory lymphocytes. AIHT have a wide spectrum of presentation, ranging from asymptomatic forms to severe acute liver failure. The diagnosis of AIHT is based on the presence of hyperglobulinemia, cytolysis, cholestasis, typical even specific circulating auto-antibodies, distinctive of AIH or PBC, and histological abnormalities as well as necrosis and inflammation. Anti-F actin, anti-LKM1, anti-LC1 antibodies permit to distinguish between AIH type 1 and AIH type 2. Anti-SLA/LP antibodies are rather associated to more severe hepatitis, and particularly useful for the diagnosis of seronegative AIH for other the antibodies. Due to the relevant diagnostic value of anti-M2, anti-Sp100, and anti-gp210 antibodies, the diagnosis of PBC is more affordable than that of PSC and AIC. Based on clinical data, the immunological diagnosis of AIHT takes advantage of the various specialized laboratory techniques including immunofluorescence, immunodot or blot, and the Elisa systems, provided of a closer collaboration between the biologist and the physician.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imane Brahim
- CHU Mohammed VI, laboratoire d'immunologie, Marrakech, Maroc.
| | - Ikram Brahim
- CHU Mohammed VI, centre de recherche clinique, Marrakech, Maroc
| | - Raja Hazime
- CHU Mohammed VI, laboratoire d'immunologie, Marrakech, Maroc
| | - Brahim Admou
- CHU Mohammed VI, laboratoire d'immunologie, Marrakech, Maroc; CHU Mohammed VI, centre de recherche clinique, Marrakech, Maroc; Université Cadi Ayyad, faculté de médecine, laboratoire de recherche PCIM, Marrakech, Maroc
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Global Disparities and Their Implications in the Occurrence and Outcome of Autoimmune Hepatitis. Dig Dis Sci 2017; 62:2277-2292. [PMID: 28710658 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-017-4675-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis has a variable occurrence, clinical phenotype, and outcome, and the factors contributing to this variability are uncertain. The goals of this review are to examine the global disparities in the occurrence and outcome of autoimmune hepatitis, suggest bases for these disparities, and encourage investigations that extend beyond single-center experiences. Disparities in the incidence and prevalence of autoimmune hepatitis in different age groups, genders, ethnicities, and geographical regions suggest that factors other than genetic predisposition are involved. Age- and gender-related antigen exposures from the external (infections, toxins, and medications) and internal (intestinal microbiome) environment may affect the incidence of the disease, and the timeliness and nature of treatment may influence its prevalence. The increasing incidence of autoimmune hepatitis in Spain, Denmark, and the Netherlands suggests that a new etiological trigger has been introduced or that the susceptible population has changed. Variations in mortality between Western and Asian-Pacific countries may result from differences in disease detection or management, and variations in gender predilection, peak age of onset, frequency of concurrent immune diseases, and serological profile may reflect gender-biased and age-related antigen exposures and genetic predispositions. Global collaborations, population-based epidemiological studies that identify case clustering, and controlled interview-based surveys are mechanisms by which to understand these disparities and improve management. In conclusion, autoimmune hepatitis has a rising incidence in some countries and variable occurrence, phenotype, and outcome between countries and subgroups within countries. These disparities suggest that unrecognized population-based environmental, infectious, or socioeconomic factors are affecting its character.
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Muratori P, Lenzi M, Cassani F, Lalanne C, Muratori L. Diagnostic approach to autoimmune hepatitis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2017; 13:769-779. [PMID: 28480763 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2017.1327355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease which, if left without treatment, can evolve into cirrhosis and possibly liver failure. The diagnosis of AIH is hampered by the lack of specific and reliable markers of the disease and a number of clinical, biochemical, immunological, histological and genetic factors should be considered to reach a confident diagnosis Areas covered: Clinical expression of AIH, histological features, serological and genetic profiles, differential diagnosis, overlap with other autoimmune liver diseases, assessed on the basis of personal experience and review of published literature in the last 10 years through a systematic Medline search (keywords: autoimmune hepatitis, diagnosis) Expert commentary: Notwithstanding numerous efforts to identify simple and reliable markers of the disease, the diagnosis of AIH is still based on the combination of histological, immunological and biochemical features and often can represent a real challenge for the hepatologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Muratori
- a Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System , Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | - Marco Lenzi
- a Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System , Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | - Fabio Cassani
- a Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System , Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | - Claudine Lalanne
- a Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System , Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | - Luigi Muratori
- a Center for the Study and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Liver and Biliary System , Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
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Christen U, Hintermann E. Immunopathogenic Mechanisms of Autoimmune Hepatitis: How Much Do We Know from Animal Models? Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17122007. [PMID: 27916939 PMCID: PMC5187807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17122007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is characterized by a progressive destruction of the liver parenchyma and a chronic fibrosis. The current treatment of autoimmune hepatitis is still largely dependent on the administration of corticosteroids and cytostatic drugs. For a long time the development of novel therapeutic strategies has been hampered by a lack of understanding the basic immunopathogenic mechanisms of AIH and the absence of valid animal models. However, in the past decade, knowledge from clinical observations in AIH patients and the development of innovative animal models have led to a situation where critical factors driving the disease have been identified and alternative treatments are being evaluated. Here we will review the insight on the immunopathogenesis of AIH as gained from clinical observation and from animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urs Christen
- Pharmazentrum Frankfurt/ZAFES, Goethe University Hospital, Theodor-Stern Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Edith Hintermann
- Pharmazentrum Frankfurt/ZAFES, Goethe University Hospital, Theodor-Stern Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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30
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Liberal R, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Contemporary issues and future directions in autoimmune hepatitis. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 10:1163-1174. [PMID: 27215278 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2016.1193004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe life-threatening hepatopathy of unknown etiology, affecting both pediatric and adult populations, and characterised by inflammatory liver histology, circulating non-organ-specific autoantibodies, and hypergammaglobulinaemia. AIH is a very heterogeneous disease with a variety of clinical presentations, ranging from asymptomatic liver test abnormalities to acute severe hepatitis or even acute liver failure. It responds very well to immunosuppressive treatment with prednisolone with or without azathioprine. Patients who are intolerant or fail to respond to standard therapy are candidates for alternative immunosuppressive regimens, the combination of steroids with mycophenolate mofetil or calcineurin inhibitors being the most frequently reported. The pathogenesis of AIH remains not completely understood, although there is evidence that genetic predisposition, molecular mimicry and defective immunoregulatory mechanisms contribute to the autoimmune liver damage. Areas covered: A literature search was conducted using the key-words 'autoimmune hepatitis', 'immunogenetics', 'regulatory T-cells' and 'immunosuppression'. The aim of this review is to discuss recent breakthroughs in the understanding AIH pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment. Expert commentary: Progress in the understanding of AIH pathogenesis is likely to contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies, such as the adoptive transfer of autologous expanded antigen-specific regulatory T-cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Liberal
- a Institute of Liver Studies and Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre , King's College Hospital , London , UK
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- a Institute of Liver Studies and Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre , King's College Hospital , London , UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- a Institute of Liver Studies and Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre , King's College Hospital , London , UK
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31
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Liberal R, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmune hepatitis: From mechanisms to therapy. Rev Clin Esp 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rceng.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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32
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Muratori P, Lalanne C, Bianchi G, Lenzi M, Muratori L. Predictive factors of poor response to therapy in Autoimmune Hepatitis. Dig Liver Dis 2016; 48:1078-81. [PMID: 27378707 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2016.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate "ex ante" the predictive factors of incomplete/absent response to the standard therapy in a well characterized series of Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) patients from Italy. METHODS Of 282 AIH patients screened from our database 166 (59%) had a sustained response and 116 (41%) had an incomplete/absent response to the therapy; all patients were analyzed for the clinical, serological and histological parameters at diagnosis. RESULTS The patients with incomplete/absent response were characterized by significantly younger age (30 aa vs 42 aa p=0.001) and a significantly higher frequency of cirrhosis at diagnosis than patients who had a complete response to therapy (26% vs 3% p<0.0001); furthermore, patients with incomplete/absent response were distinguished from those with a complete response for significantly lower serum levels of both AST (7.9×upper normal limit [unl] vs 13×unl p<0.005) and ALT (10.9×unl vs 18×unl p=0.002) at diagnosis, and by an increase in IgG serum levels (1.43×unl vs 1.27×unl p=0.009). After stepwise logistic regression, cirrhosis at diagnosis (p=0.003, OR 0.12, 95% CI 0.03-0.49) and younger age (p=0.001, OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.05) represent two independent variables of incomplete/absent response. CONCLUSIONS Younger age and cirrhosis are predictive of lack of response to the standard therapy in AIH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Muratori
- Centre for the study and therapy of Autoimmune liver Disease, Bologna, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Italy.
| | - Claudine Lalanne
- Centre for the study and therapy of Autoimmune liver Disease, Bologna, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Italy.
| | - Giampaolo Bianchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Italy.
| | - Marco Lenzi
- Centre for the study and therapy of Autoimmune liver Disease, Bologna, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Italy.
| | - Luigi Muratori
- Centre for the study and therapy of Autoimmune liver Disease, Bologna, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Italy.
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33
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Liberal R, Krawitt EL, Vierling JM, Manns MP, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Cutting edge issues in autoimmune hepatitis. J Autoimmun 2016; 75:6-19. [PMID: 27502148 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2016.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe liver disease affecting all age groups worldwide. Novel basic and clinical aspects of AIH, addressed at a Monothematic Conference in London in September 2015, are highlighted in this review. The diagnosis of AIH relies upon detection of characteristic autoantibodies, hypergammaglobulinemia, and interface hepatitis on liver histology. The International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) has devised diagnostic scoring systems to help in comparative studies and clinical practice. AIH arises in a genetically predisposed host, when yet unknown triggers - such an encounter with a pathogen - lead to a T cell-mediated immune response targeting liver autoantigens. This immune response is inadequately controlled because regulatory mechanisms are impaired. The mainstay of treatment for AIH is immunosuppression, which should be instituted as soon as the diagnosis is made. Standard treatment regimens include relatively high doses of predniso(lo)ne, which are tapered gradually as azathioprine is introduced. Recent guidelines have described newer treatment regimens and have tightened the goal of therapy to complete normalization of biochemical, serological and histological parameters. Mycophenolate mofetil, calcineurin inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors and biological agents are potential salvage therapies, but should be reserved for selected non-responsive patients and administered only in experienced centers. Liver transplantation is a life-saving option for those patients who progress to end-stage liver disease. Further dissection of cellular and molecular pathways involved in AIH pathogenesis is likely to lead to the discovery of novel, tailored and better tolerated therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Liberal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Edward L Krawitt
- Department of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - John M Vierling
- Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Baylor-St Luke's Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK.
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34
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Liberal R, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmune hepatitis: From mechanisms to therapy. Rev Clin Esp 2016; 216:372-383. [PMID: 27161382 DOI: 10.1016/j.rce.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a progressive inflammatory hepatopathy and an important cause of end-stage liver disease. Its aetiology remains unknown, though both genetic and environmental factors are involved in its development. The major mechanism of autoimmune liver damage involves immune reactions against host liver antigens. Numerical and functional defects of regulatory T-cells play a permissive role enabling autoimmune liver injury to occur and persist. The most typical features of AIH are female preponderance, hypergammaglobulinaemia, seropositivity for circulating autoantibodies and a picture of interface hepatitis on histology. Two types of AIH are distinguished according to serological profile: AIH type 1 patients are positive for anti-nuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle antibodies, whereas AIH type 2 patients are defined by the positivity for anti-liver kidney microsomal type 1 antibody and/or for anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibody. Clinical manifestations are variable, and AIH onset is often ill-defined, frequently mimicking acute hepatitis; its course may be fluctuating. AIH responds to immunosuppressive treatment in the majority of cases. Steroids with or without azathioprine should be instituted promptly upon diagnosis. Remission is achieved in some 80% of patients. For the remaining 20% of patients, alternative immunosuppressive agents such as mycophenolate mofetil and calcineurin inhibitors are an option. Liver transplantation should be considered for those patients who progress to cirrhosis and develop complications of end-stage liver disease, as well as for those presenting with acute liver failure; outcomes are excellent, although the disease may recur in the allograft.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Liberal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK; Department of Gastroenterology, Centro Hospitalar São João and Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - G Mieli-Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK; Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - D Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK.
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35
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Czaja AJ. Diagnosis and Management of Autoimmune Hepatitis: Current Status and Future Directions. Gut Liver 2016; 10:177-203. [PMID: 26934884 PMCID: PMC4780448 DOI: 10.5009/gnl15352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is characterized by autoantibodies, hypergammaglobulinemia, and interface hepatitis on histological examination. The features lack diagnostic specificity, and other diseases that may resemble autoimmune hepatitis must be excluded. The clinical presentation may be acute, acute severe (fulminant), or asymptomatic; conventional autoantibodies may be absent; centrilobular necrosis and bile duct changes may be present; and the disease may occur after liver transplantation or with features that suggest overlapping disorders. The diagnostic criteria have been codified, and diagnostic scoring systems can support clinical judgment. Nonstandard autoantibodies, including antibodies to actin, α-actinin, soluble liver antigen, perinuclear antineutrophil antigen, asialoglycoprotein receptor, and liver cytosol type 1, are tools that can support the diagnosis, especially in patients with atypical features. Prednisone or prednisolone in combination with azathioprine is the preferred treatment, and strategies using these medications in various doses can ameliorate treatment failure, incomplete response, drug intolerance, and relapse after drug withdrawal. Budesonide, mycophenolate mofetil, and calcineurin inhibitors can be considered in selected patients as frontline or salvage therapies. Molecular (recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies), cellular (adoptive transfer and antigenic manipulation), and pharmacological (antioxidants, antifibrotics, and antiapoptotic agents) interventions constitute future directions in management. The evolving knowledge of the pathogenic pathways and the advances in technology promise new management algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J. Czaja
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN,
USA
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36
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Abstract
Sclerosing cholangitis in pediatric age is a severe disease, often associated with inflammatory bowel disease. It recognizes different etiologies. Management and prognosis depend on the underlying cause. A high proportion of patients have autoimmune features similar to those of autoimmune hepatitis and respond biochemically to immunosuppression, although bile duct disease progresses in half of them leading to liver transplant. The disease can recur after transplant. Severity of liver disease and risk of recurrence after transplant are linked to the severity of bowel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK.
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK
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37
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Genetic factors affect the etiology, clinical characteristics and outcome of autoimmune hepatitis. Clin J Gastroenterol 2015; 8:360-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s12328-015-0620-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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38
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Kirstein MM, Metzler F, Geiger E, Heinrich E, Hallensleben M, Manns MP, Vogel A. Prediction of short- and long-term outcome in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Hepatology 2015; 62:1524-35. [PMID: 26178791 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by a loss of tolerance toward the hepatocellular epithelium. Liver transplantation (LT) represents the ultimate therapeutic option for a fulminant course or end-stage liver disease. The aim of this study was to elucidate the clinical, serological, and genetic features of remission, relapse, and overall and LT-free survival. Between 2000 and 2014, 354 AIH patients from Hannover Medical School were included. Clinical, laboratory, and histological reports were analyzed. DRB1 allele analyses were performed in 264 AIH and 399 non-AIH patients. Cox's regression analysis was performed to identify factors significantly associated with survival. Patients diagnosed in childhood were at higher risk for relapses (P=0.003), requirement for LTs (P=0.014, log rank), and had a reduced life expectancy (P<0.001, log rank). Detection of soluble liver antigen/liver pancreas antigen (SLA/LP) antibodies was significantly associated with reduced overall and LT-free survival (P=0.037; P=0.021). Cirrhosis, which was evident in 25% at first diagnosis, was found to be a predictor of poor survival and requirement for LT (P=0.003; P=0.009). DRB1*04:01-positive phenotype was associated with a higher rate of complete remissions and with a lower frequency of cirrhosis and LTs. There were no significant differences for subsequent relapses or survival in patients achieving either partial or complete remission. CONCLUSION Diagnosis<18 years, histological cirrhosis at first diagnosis and SLA/LP antibodies are major risk factors for a poor short- and long-term outcome. These patients are in need of high surveillance. Separating patients with positive SLA/LP antibodies into a third group may be reconsidered. DRB1*04:01 positivity has been identified in association with a favorable clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha M Kirstein
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover, Germany
| | - Frauke Metzler
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elena Geiger
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eyk Heinrich
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Michael P Manns
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover, Germany
| | - Arndt Vogel
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover, Germany
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39
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Affiliation(s)
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- EASL office, 7 Rue Daubin, CH 1203 Geneva, Switzerland,
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40
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Yang F, Wang Q, Bian Z, Ren LL, Jia J, Ma X. Autoimmune hepatitis: East meets west. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2015; 30:1230-6. [PMID: 25765710 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.12952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an inflammatory liver disease with diverse clinical spectrum, which predominantly affects females. This review provides detailed comparisons of epidemiology, genetic predispositions, clinical features, risk factors of hepatocellular carcinoma, and mortality in AIH patients between eastern and western countries. AIH prevalence and incidence are lower in Asia-Pacific area than in Europe and America. European and American patients seem to have more severe disease, characterized with human leukocyte antigen-DR3 haplotype, younger age, more AIH-induced "cirrhosis" at diagnosis, higher elevated serum immunoglobulin G levels, and positive rate of antisoluble liver antigen/liver pancreatitis. The overall AIH diagnostic accuracy of revised original criteria and simplified scoring system are similar in European/American populations and Asian. Cirrhosis at presentation and non-response to immunosuppressive therapy within 1 year are the most important predictors for poor prognosis of AIH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Qixia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaolian Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin-Lin Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Liver Research Center & Clinical Epidemiology and EBM Unit, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai, China
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41
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Muratori P, Lalanne C, Fabbri A, Cassani F, Lenzi M, Muratori L. Type 1 and type 2 autoimmune hepatitis in adults share the same clinical phenotype. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2015; 41:1281-7. [PMID: 25898847 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is historically classified into type 1 and type 2 on the basis of the autoantibody profile, anti-nuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle antibodies being the serological markers of type 1 AIH, whereas anti-liver/kidney microsomal antibody type 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol antibody type 1 characterise type 2 AIH. AIM To evaluate whether such a distinction is justified on the basis of different expression of the disease in adults. METHODS Twenty-six adult patients with type 2 AIH and 52 age- and sex-matched patients with type 1 AIH, representative of the entire cohort of adults with type 1 AIH, were compared at onset and during follow-up. RESULTS At diagnosis, median age was 26 years (range 17-53), female sex 86%, acute presentation 43%, severe liver histology 54%, cirrhosis 14%, complete response to treatment 52%, progression of the disease 17%, and median disease duration 72 months (range 12-280). HLA-DRB1*0301 was present in 26%, HLA-DRB1*0401 in 23% and HLA-DRB1*0701 in 25%. Clinical presentation, biochemical parameters, severe liver histology, genetic profile, response rate and progression of the disease were identical between type 1 and type 2 AIH. CONCLUSION There is not enough clinical, biochemical, histological or genetic reason to subdivide adults with autoimmune hepatitis into type 1 and type 2 on the basis of the autoantibody profile, and the term 'autoimmune hepatitis' without qualification should be preferred.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Muratori
- Centro per lo Studio e la Cura delle Malattie Autoimmuni del Fegato e delle Vie Biliari, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Lalanne
- Centro per lo Studio e la Cura delle Malattie Autoimmuni del Fegato e delle Vie Biliari, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Fabbri
- Centro per lo Studio e la Cura delle Malattie Autoimmuni del Fegato e delle Vie Biliari, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Cassani
- Centro per lo Studio e la Cura delle Malattie Autoimmuni del Fegato e delle Vie Biliari, Bologna, Italy.,Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, via Massarenti 9, Bologna 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Lenzi
- Centro per lo Studio e la Cura delle Malattie Autoimmuni del Fegato e delle Vie Biliari, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Muratori
- Centro per lo Studio e la Cura delle Malattie Autoimmuni del Fegato e delle Vie Biliari, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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42
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Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmune liver disease in Asian children. Hepatol Int 2015; 9:157-60. [PMID: 25788190 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-014-9602-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 9RS, UK,
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Liberal R, Vergani D, Mieli-Vergani G. Update on Autoimmune Hepatitis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2015; 3:42-52. [PMID: 26357634 PMCID: PMC4542083 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2014.00032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), a liver disorder affecting both children and adults, is characterized by inflammatory liver histology, elevated transaminase levels, circulating nonorganspecific autoantibodies, and increased levels of immunoglobulin G, in the absence of a known etiology. Two types of AIH are recognized according to seropositivity: smooth muscle antibody and/or antinuclear antibody define AIH type 1 and antibodies to liver-kidney microsome type 1 and/or liver cytosol type 1 define AIH type 2. AIH type 1 affects both adults and children, while AIH type 2 is mainly a paediatric disease, though it does occasionally affects young adults. AIH should be considered during the diagnostic workup of any patient with increased liver enzyme levels. AIH is exquisitely responsive to immunosuppressive treatment with prednisolone with or without azathioprine, with symptom free long-term survival for the majority of patients. For those who do not respond to standard treatment, or who are difficult-to-treat, mycophenolate mofetil and, in the absence of a response, calcineurin inhibitors should be tried in addition to steroids. The pathogenesis of AIH is not fully understood, although there is mounting evidence that genetic susceptibility, molecular mimicry and impaired immunoregulatory networks contribute to the initiation and perpetuation of the autoimmune attack. Liver damage is thought to be mediated primarily by CD4 T-cells, although recent studies support the involvement of diverse populations, including Th17 cells. A deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of AIH is likely to contribute to the development of novel treatments, such as the adoptive transfer of autologous expanded antigenspecific regulatory T-cells, which ultimately aim at restoring tolerance to liver-derived antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Liberal
- Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre and Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre and Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI & Nutrition Centre and Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London School of Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Zachou K, Gampeta S, Gatselis NK, Oikonomou K, Goulis J, Manoussakis MN, Renaudineau Y, Bogdanos DP, Dalekos GN. Anti-SLA/LP alone or in combination with anti-Ro52 and fine specificity of anti-Ro52 antibodies in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Liver Int 2015; 35:660-72. [PMID: 25113420 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Antibodies (Abs) to soluble liver antigen/liver pancreas (anti-SLA/LP) are considered markers of worse prognosis and outcome in patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) although this assumption has recently been attributed to their frequent co-expression with Abs against Ro52 (anti-Ro52). To assess the clinical significance of anti-SLA/LP Abs alone or in combination with anti-Ro52 in AIH patients and determine the immunodominant Ro52 epitopes according to the anti-SLA/LP status. METHODS Twenty-three anti-SLA/LP-positive and 106 anti-SLA/LP-negative AIH patients were included. Anti-SLA/LP were determined by ELISA using recombinant antigen, and confirmed by immunoblot using cytosolic rat liver fraction or HuH-7 extract. Anti-Ro52 Abs were determined by ELISA using recombinant antigen. Epitope mapping was assessed by ELISA using overlapping peptides covering the whole Ro52 protein in 26 AIH patients and 12 patients with Sjögren's syndrome. RESULTS Anti-SLA/LP positivity was not associated with the clinical, laboratory or histological characteristics of AIH patients. Treatment response, corticosteroid withdrawal, relapse after stopping treatment and outcome, were not associated with the presence of anti-SLA/LP, anti-Ro52 or double reactivity. Moreover, Ro52 epitope mapping revealed new epitopes unique for AIH and independent from anti-SLA/LP positivity. CONCLUSIONS Neither anti-SLA/LP nor anti-Ro52 Abs or their combination could specify a distinct group of AIH patients in terms of clinical characteristics, treatment response and outcome. Further studies are needed to clarify whether the newly discovered immunodominant epitopes of Ro52 antigen which were associated specifically with AIH have any clinical or pathogenetic significance in AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Zachou
- Department of Medicine and Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is characterized by increased serum aminotransferase levels, autoantibodies, hypergammaglobulinemia, and interface hepatitis. Presentation can be acute, severe (fulminant), asymptomatic, or chronic. Diagnosis requires multiple findings and exclusion of similar diseases. Treatment with prednisone or prednisolone with azathioprine is recommended. Budesonide with azathioprine has normalized laboratory test with few side effects, but histologic resolution, durability of response, and target population are uncertain. Progressive worsening, incomplete improvement, drug intolerance, and relapse after drug withdrawal are suboptimal outcomes. Calcineurin inhibitors and mycophenolate mofetil are salvage agents in small series and liver transplantation is effective for liver failure.
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HLA-DRB1*03:01 and HLA-DRB1*04:01 modify the presentation and outcome in autoimmune hepatitis type-1. Genes Immun 2015; 16:247-52. [PMID: 25611558 DOI: 10.1038/gene.2014.82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The classical human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1*03:01 and HLA-DRB1*04:01 alleles are established autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) risk alleles. To study the immune-modifying effect of these alleles, we imputed the genotypes from genome-wide association data in 649 Dutch AIH type-1 patients. We therefore compared the international AIH group (IAIHG) diagnostic scores as well as the underlying clinical characteristics between patients positive and negative for these HLA alleles. Seventy-five percent of the AIH patients were HLA-DRB1*03:01/HLA-DRB1*04:01 positive. HLA-DRB1*03:01/HLA-DRB1*04:01-positive patients had a higher median IAIHG score than HLA-DRB1*03:01/HLA-DRB1*04:01-negative patients (P<0.001). We did not observe associations between HLA alleles and alanine transaminase levels (HLA-DRB1*03:01: P=0.2; HLA-DRB1*04:01; P=0.5); however, HLA-DRB1*03:01 was independently associated with higher immunoglobulin G levels (P=0.04). The HLA-DRB1*04:01 allele was independently associated with presentation at older age (P=0.03) and a female predominance (P=0.04). HLA-DRB1*03:01-positive patients received immunosuppressive medication and liver transplantation. In conclusion, the HLA-DRB1*03:01 and HLA-DRB1*04:01 alleles are both independently associated with the aggregate diagnostic IAIHG score in type-1 AIH patients, but are not essential for AIH development. HLA-DRB1*03:01 is the strongest genetic modifier of disease severity in AIH.
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Gatselis NK, Zachou K, Koukoulis GK, Dalekos GN. Autoimmune hepatitis, one disease with many faces: Etiopathogenetic, clinico-laboratory and histological characteristics. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:60-83. [PMID: 25574080 PMCID: PMC4284362 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i1.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Revised: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an unresolving progressive liver disease of unknown etiology characterized by hypergammaglobulinemia, autoantibodies detection and interface hepatitis. Due to the absence of specific diagnostic markers and the large heterogeneity of its clinical, laboratory and histological features, AIH diagnosis may be potentially difficult. Therefore, in this in-depth review we summarize the substantial progress on etiopathogenesis, clinical, serological and histological phenotypes of AIH. AIH has a global distribution affecting any age, both sexes and all ethnic groups. Clinical manifestations vary from asymptomatic to severe or rarely fulminant hepatitis. Hypergammaglobulinemia with selective elevation of IgG is found in most cases. Autoimmune attack is perpetuated, possibly via molecular mimicry, and favored by the impaired control of T-regulatory cells. Histology (interface hepatitis, emperipolesis and hepatic rosette formation) and autoantibodies detection although not pathognomonic, are still the hallmark for a timely diagnosis. AIH remains a major diagnostic challenge. AIH should be considered in every case in the absence of viral, metabolic, genetic and toxic etiology of chronic or acute hepatitis. Laboratory personnel, hepato-pathologists and clinicians need to become more familiar with disease expressions and the interpretation of liver histology and autoimmune serology to derive maximum benefit for the patient.
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Nares-Cisneros J, Jaramillo-Rodríguez Y. Hepatitis autoinmune en niños: evolución de 20 casos del norte de México. REVISTA DE GASTROENTEROLOGÍA DE MÉXICO 2014; 79:238-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rgmx.2014.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Revised: 08/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Nares-Cisneros J, Jaramillo-Rodríguez Y. Autoimmune hepatitis in children: Progression of 20 cases in northern Mexico. REVISTA DE GASTROENTEROLOGÍA DE MÉXICO (ENGLISH EDITION) 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rgmxen.2014.11.002] [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: 02/07/2023] Open
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Abstract
Historically, liver biopsy has been used to determine the etiology of liver disease, the degree of inflammation, the stage of liver fibrosis, and the response to treatments. In the last decade, the advent of noninvasive tests has improved the diagnosis and management of autoimmune liver diseases. For example, serum markers can identify hepatic inflammation, whereas ultrasound and MRI can diagnose liver fibrosis. Physicians now have a much larger repertoire of diagnostic tests to assess the liver parenchyma compared with liver biopsy alone. In some rare cases, noninvasive tests may provide an alternative to liver biopsy. In general, however, these noninvasive tests complement liver biopsy and provide quick, accurate, and reliable adjunctive data.
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