1
|
Sant’Anna TBF, Martins TLS, dos Santos Carneiro MA, Teles SA, Caetano KAA, de Araujo NM. First Detection of Hepatitis B Virus Subgenotype A5, and Characterization of Occult Infection and Hepatocellular Carcinoma-Related Mutations in Latin American and African Immigrants in Brazil. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8602. [PMID: 39201291 PMCID: PMC11354843 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aims to characterize the molecular profile of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) among socially vulnerable immigrants residing in Brazil to investigate the introduction of uncommon HBV strains into the country. Serum samples from 102 immigrants with positive serology for the HBV core antibody (anti-HBc) were tested for the presence of HBV DNA by PCR assays. Among these, 24 were also positive for the HBV surface antigen (HBsAg). The full or partial genome was sequenced to determine genotype by phylogenetic analysis. Participants were from Haiti (79.4%), Guinea-Bissau (11.8%), Venezuela (7.8%), and Colombia (1%). Of the 21 HBV DNA-positive samples, subgenotypes A1 (52.4%), A5 (28.6%), E (9.5%), F2 (4.8%), and F3 (4.8%) were identified. Among the 78 HBsAg-negative participants, four were positive for HBV DNA, resulting in an occult HBV infection rate of 5.1%. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that most strains were likely introduced to Brazil by migration. Importantly, 80% of A5 sequences had the A1762T/G1764A double mutation, linked to an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma development. In conclusion, this study is the first report of HBV subgenotype A5 in Brazil, shedding new light on the diversity of HBV strains circulating in the country. Understanding the genetic diversity of HBV in immigrant communities can lead to better prevention and control strategies, benefiting both immigrants and wider society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sheila Araujo Teles
- Faculty of Nursing, Federal University of Goiás, Goiania 74605-080, Brazil; (T.L.S.M.); (S.A.T.); (K.A.A.C.)
| | | | - Natalia Motta de Araujo
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Parasitology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xu ZM, Gnouamozi GE, Rüeger S, Shea PR, Buti M, Chan HL, Marcellin P, Lawless D, Naret O, Zeller M, Schneuing A, Scheck A, Junier T, Moradpour D, Podlaha O, Suri V, Gaggar A, Subramanian M, Correia B, Gfeller D, Urban S, Fellay J. Joint host-pathogen genomic analysis identifies hepatitis B virus mutations associated with human NTCP and HLA class I variation. Am J Hum Genet 2024; 111:1018-1034. [PMID: 38749427 PMCID: PMC11179264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2024.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary changes in the hepatitis B virus (HBV) genome could reflect its adaptation to host-induced selective pressure. Leveraging paired human exome and ultra-deep HBV genome-sequencing data from 567 affected individuals with chronic hepatitis B, we comprehensively searched for the signatures of this evolutionary process by conducting "genome-to-genome" association tests between all human genetic variants and viral mutations. We identified significant associations between an East Asian-specific missense variant in the gene encoding the HBV entry receptor NTCP (rs2296651, NTCP S267F) and mutations within the receptor-binding region of HBV preS1. Through in silico modeling and in vitro preS1-NTCP binding assays, we observed that the associated HBV mutations are in proximity to the NTCP variant when bound and together partially increase binding affinity to NTCP S267F. Furthermore, we identified significant associations between HLA-A variation and viral mutations in HLA-A-restricted T cell epitopes. We used in silico binding prediction tools to evaluate the impact of the associated HBV mutations on HLA presentation and observed that mutations that result in weaker binding affinities to their cognate HLA alleles were enriched. Overall, our results suggest the emergence of HBV escape mutations that might alter the interaction between HBV PreS1 and its cellular receptor NTCP during viral entry into hepatocytes and confirm the role of HLA class I restriction in inducing HBV epitope variations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Ming Xu
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gnimah Eva Gnouamozi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sina Rüeger
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrick R Shea
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria Buti
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron and CIBEREHD del Instituto Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Henry Ly Chan
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Dylan Lawless
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Naret
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Zeller
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Arne Schneuing
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Scheck
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Junier
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Darius Moradpour
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | | - Bruno Correia
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Gfeller
- Department of Oncology UNIL-CHUV, Lausanne University Hospital, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Urban
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jacques Fellay
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland; Precision Medicine Unit, Biomedical Data Science Center, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Duchen D, Clipman SJ, Vergara C, Thio CL, Thomas DL, Duggal P, Wojcik GL. A hepatitis B virus (HBV) sequence variation graph improves alignment and sample-specific consensus sequence construction. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301069. [PMID: 38669259 PMCID: PMC11051683 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Nearly 300 million individuals live with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (CHB), for which no curative therapy is available. As viral diversity is associated with pathogenesis and immunological control of infection, improved methods to characterize this diversity could aid drug development efforts. Conventionally, viral sequencing data are mapped/aligned to a reference genome, and only the aligned sequences are retained for analysis. Thus, reference selection is critical, yet selecting the most representative reference a priori remains difficult. We investigate an alternative pangenome approach which can combine multiple reference sequences into a graph which can be used during alignment. Using simulated short-read sequencing data generated from publicly available HBV genomes and real sequencing data from an individual living with CHB, we demonstrate alignment to a phylogenetically representative 'genome graph' can improve alignment, avoid issues of reference ambiguity, and facilitate the construction of sample-specific consensus sequences more genetically similar to the individual's infection. Graph-based methods can, therefore, improve efforts to characterize the genetics of viral pathogens, including HBV, and have broader implications in host-pathogen research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Duchen
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Center for Biomedical Data Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Steven J. Clipman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Candelaria Vergara
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Chloe L. Thio
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - David L. Thomas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Priya Duggal
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Genevieve L. Wojcik
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Osiowy C, Giles E, Lowe CF, Matic N, Murphy DG, Uzicanin S, Drews SJ, O'Brien SF. Hepatitis B virus genotype surveillance in Canadian blood donors and a referred patient population, 2016-2021. Vox Sang 2024; 119:232-241. [PMID: 38141175 DOI: 10.1111/vox.13568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes (A-H) have a distinct geographic distribution and are highly associated with the country of birth. Canada has experienced increased immigration over the past decade, primarily from regions where HBV is endemic. This study investigated the proportions and trends of HBV genotypes within blood donor and clinical populations of Canada over the period 2016-2021. MATERIALS AND METHODS Study samples involved two cohorts: (1) Canadian blood donors (n = 246) deferred from donation due to HBV test positivity and (2) chronic HBV patients from across Canada (clinically referred population, n = 3539). Plasma or serum was extracted, and the surface antigen and/or polymerase-coding region was amplified and sequenced to determine genotype by phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS Six (A-E, G) and eight (A-H) HBV genotypes were detected among deferred blood donors and the clinically referred population, respectively. Differences in HBV genotype proportions between the two cohorts were observed across Canada. Males comprised most of the referred population among genotypes A-E (p < 0.0001), except for genotypes B and C. The median age was younger among blood donors (36 years [range 17-72]) compared with the referred population (41 years [range 0-99]). Distinct trends of increasing (E, referred; B, blood donor) and decreasing genotype prevalence were observed over the study period. CONCLUSION HBV genotypes in Canada are highly diverse, suggesting a large immigrant population. Observed trends in genotype prevalence and proportional differences among cohorts imply shifts among the HBV-infected population of Canada, which warrants continued surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Osiowy
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Giles
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Christopher F Lowe
- St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nancy Matic
- St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Donald G Murphy
- Laboratoire de Santé Publique du Québec, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Steven J Drews
- Canadian Blood Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Division of Diagnostic and Applied Microbiology, Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sheila F O'Brien
- Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Epidemiology & Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Elizalde MM, Giadans CG, Campos RH, Flichman DM. Impact of core protein naturally selected mutants associated with HBeAg-negative status in HBV biosynthesis. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29195. [PMID: 37881005 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) loss represents a late stage of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection associated with a drastic decrease in HBV-DNA, a lower risk of disease progression, and the occurrence of several mutations in the preCore/core region. However, the underlying mechanisms supporting the downregulation of viral replication have yet to be elucidated. In the present study, the analysis of the frequency of subgenotype D1 core protein (HBc) mutations associated with HBeAg status revealed a higher mutation rate in HBeAg-negative sequences compared to HBeAg-positive ones. Particularly, 22 amino acids exhibited a higher frequency of mutation in HBeAg-negative sequences, while the remaining residues showed a high degree of conservation. Subsequently, the assessment of HBc mutants derived from HBeAg-negative patients in viral structure and replicative capacity revealed that HBc mutations have the ability to modulate the subcellular localization of the protein (either when the protein was expressed alone or in the context of viral replication), capsid assembly, and, depending on specific mutation patterns, alter covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) recycling and up- or downregulate viral replication. In conclusion, HBc mutations associated with HBeAg-negative status impact on various stages of the HBV life cycle modulating viral replication during the HBeAg-negative stage of infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Mercedes Elizalde
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Graciela Giadans
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo Héctor Campos
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Cátedra de Virología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Diego Martín Flichman
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pujol FH, Toyé RM, Loureiro CL, Jaspe RC, Chemin I. Hepatitis B eradication: vaccine as a key player. Am J Transl Res 2023; 15:4971-4983. [PMID: 37692960 PMCID: PMC10492071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the availability of a highly effective and safe vaccine against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection for 40 years, still almost 300 million persons are estimated to be chronically infected by this virus worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has proposed a plan for hepatitis elimination by 2030. However, several factors, such as the reduction and limitation in vaccination campaigns or vaccine hesitancy (VH) in some regions of the World, might have played a role in limiting the worldwide coverage of hepatitis B prophylaxis. This review aims to describe which factors, such as VH, may be hampering the WHO 2030 goal for hepatitis B eradication. METHODS The review describes the development and characteristics of the HBV vaccine, from the first plasma-derived to the recombinant one. Eventual limitations in its effectiveness and particularly VH were reviewed. RESULTS The apparent pitfalls of the HBV vaccine, such as long-term effectiveness, vaccine-escape mutants, and adverse effects, were proven not to be a concern for this vaccine. However, VH persists and was even intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Many barriers still exist, such as vaccine availability, lack of awareness of the benefits of HBV vaccination, and VH. HBV VH seems to be eventually overcome in many settings with active education campaigns and information, stressing the importance of developing these strategies to achieve the 2030 goal of the WHO.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flor Helene Pujol
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular (CMBC), Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC)1020A Caracas, Venezuela
- Collegium de Lyon, Institut d’Etudes Avancées, Université Lyon 269003 Lyon, France
| | - Rayana Maryse Toyé
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm) U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon (CRCL)151 Cours Albert Thomas, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Carmen Luisa Loureiro
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular (CMBC), Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC)1020A Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Rossana Celeste Jaspe
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular (CMBC), Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC)1020A Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Isabelle Chemin
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm) U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon (CRCL)151 Cours Albert Thomas, 69003 Lyon, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Toyé RM, Loureiro CL, Jaspe RC, Zoulim F, Pujol FH, Chemin I. The Hepatitis B Virus Genotypes E to J: The Overlooked Genotypes. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1908. [PMID: 37630468 PMCID: PMC10459053 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11081908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes E to J are understudied genotypes. Genotype E is found almost exclusively in West Africa. Genotypes F and H are found in America and are rare in other parts of the world. The distribution of genotype G is not completely known. Genotypes I and J are found in Asia and probably result from recombination events with other genotypes. The number of reported sequences for HBV genotypes E to J is small compared to other genotypes, which could impact phylogenetic and pairwise distance analyses. Genotype F is the most divergent of the HBV genotypes and is subdivided into six subgenotypes F1 to F6. Genotype E may be a recent genotype circulating almost exclusively in sub-Saharan Africa. Genotype J is a putative genotype originating from a single Japanese patient. The paucity of data from sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America is due to the under-representation of these regions in clinical and research cohorts. The purpose of this review is to highlight the need for further research on HBV genotypes E to J, which appear to be overlooked genotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rayana Maryse Toyé
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm) U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon (CRCL), 151 Cours Albert Thomas, 69003 Lyon, France; (R.M.T.); (F.Z.)
| | - Carmen Luisa Loureiro
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular (CMBC), Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Caracas 1020A, Venezuela; (C.L.L.); (R.C.J.)
| | - Rossana Celeste Jaspe
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular (CMBC), Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Caracas 1020A, Venezuela; (C.L.L.); (R.C.J.)
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm) U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon (CRCL), 151 Cours Albert Thomas, 69003 Lyon, France; (R.M.T.); (F.Z.)
| | - Flor Helene Pujol
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular (CMBC), Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Caracas 1020A, Venezuela; (C.L.L.); (R.C.J.)
- Collégium de Lyon, Institut d’Etudes Avancées, Université Lyon 2, 69007 Lyon, France
| | - Isabelle Chemin
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm) U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon (CRCL), 151 Cours Albert Thomas, 69003 Lyon, France; (R.M.T.); (F.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Villanueva RA, Loyola A. Pre- and Post-Transcriptional Control of HBV Gene Expression: The Road Traveled towards the New Paradigm of HBx, Its Isoforms, and Their Diverse Functions. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1674. [PMID: 37371770 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an enveloped DNA human virus belonging to the Hepadnaviridae family. Perhaps its main distinguishable characteristic is the replication of its genome through a reverse transcription process. The HBV circular genome encodes only four overlapping reading frames, encoding for the main canonical proteins named core, P, surface, and X (or HBx protein). However, pre- and post-transcriptional gene regulation diversifies the full HBV proteome into diverse isoform proteins. In line with this, hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) is a viral multifunctional and regulatory protein of 16.5 kDa, whose canonical reading frame presents two phylogenetically conserved internal in-frame translational initiation codons, and which results as well in the expression of two divergent N-terminal smaller isoforms of 8.6 and 5.8 kDa, during translation. The canonical HBx, as well as the smaller isoform proteins, displays different roles during viral replication and subcellular localizations. In this article, we reviewed the different mechanisms of pre- and post-transcriptional regulation of protein expression that take place during viral replication. We also investigated all the past and recent evidence about HBV HBx gene regulation and its divergent N-terminal isoform proteins. Evidence has been collected for over 30 years. The accumulated evidence simply strengthens the concept of a new paradigm of the canonical HBx, and its smaller divergent N-terminal isoform proteins, not only during viral replication, but also throughout cell pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alejandra Loyola
- Centro Ciencia & Vida, Fundación Ciencia & Vida, Santiago 8580702, Chile
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago 7510602, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ng E, Dobrica MO, Harris JM, Wu Y, Tsukuda S, Wing PAC, Piazza P, Balfe P, Matthews PC, Ansari MA, McKeating JA. An enrichment protocol and analysis pipeline for long read sequencing of the hepatitis B virus transcriptome. J Gen Virol 2023; 104:001856. [PMID: 37196057 PMCID: PMC10845048 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the smallest human DNA viruses and its 3.2 Kb genome encodes multiple overlapping open reading frames, making its viral transcriptome challenging to dissect. Previous studies have combined quantitative PCR and Next Generation Sequencing to identify viral transcripts and splice junctions, however the fragmentation and selective amplification used in short read sequencing precludes the resolution of full length RNAs. Our study coupled an oligonucleotide enrichment protocol with state-of-the-art long read sequencing (PacBio) to identify the repertoire of HBV RNAs. This methodology provides sequencing libraries where up to 25 % of reads are of viral origin and enable the identification of canonical (unspliced), non-canonical (spliced) and chimeric viral-human transcripts. Sequencing RNA isolated from de novo HBV infected cells or those transfected with 1.3 × overlength HBV genomes allowed us to assess the viral transcriptome and to annotate 5' truncations and polyadenylation profiles. The two HBV model systems showed an excellent agreement in the pattern of major viral RNAs, however differences were noted in the abundance of spliced transcripts. Viral-host chimeric transcripts were identified and more commonly found in the transfected cells. Enrichment capture and PacBio sequencing allows the assignment of canonical and non-canonical HBV RNAs using an open-source analysis pipeline that enables the accurate mapping of the HBV transcriptome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Ng
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mihaela-Olivia Dobrica
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Present address: Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - James M. Harris
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yanxia Wu
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Senko Tsukuda
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Peter A. C. Wing
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Paolo Piazza
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Peter Balfe
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Philippa C. Matthews
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - M. Azim Ansari
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jane A. McKeating
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kim DH, Choi YM, Jang J, Kim BJ. Global prevalence and molecular characteristics of three clades within hepatitis B virus subgenotype C2: Predominance of the C2(3) clade in South Korea. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1137084. [PMID: 36970691 PMCID: PMC10033913 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1137084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) genotypes reflect geographic, ethical or clinical traits and are currently divided into 10 genotypes (A–J). Of these, genotype C is mainly distributed in Asia, is the largest group and comprises more than seven subgenotypes (C1–C7). Subgenotype C2 is divided into three phylogenetically distinct clades, C2(1), C2(2), and C2(3), and is responsible for most genotype C infections in three East Asian nations, including China, Japan, and South Korea, which are major HBV endemic areas. However, despite the significance of subgenotype C2 with regard to clinical or epidemiologic aspects, its global distribution and molecular characteristics remain largely unknown. Here, we analyze the global prevalence and molecular characteristics between 3 clades within subgenotype C2 using 1,315 full genome sequences of HBV genotype C retrieved from public databases. Our data show that almost all HBV strains from South Korean patients infected with genotype C belong to clade C2(3) within subgenotype C2 [96.3%] but that HBV strains from Chinese or Japanese patients belong to diverse subgenotypes or clades within genotype C, suggesting clonal expansion of a specific HBV type, C2(3), among the Korean population. Our genome sequence analysis indicated a total of 21 signature sequences specific to the respective clades C2(1), C2(2), and C2(3). Of note, two types of four nonsynonymous C2(3) signature sequences, sV184A in HBsAg and xT36P in the X region, were detected in 78.9 and 82.9% of HBV C2(3) strains, respectively. In particular, HBV strains C2(3) versus C2(1) and C2(2) show a higher frequency of reverse transcriptase mutations related to nucleot(s)ide analog (NA) resistance, including rtM204I and rtL180M, suggesting an increased possibility of C2(3) infection in those with NA treatment failure. In conclusion, our data show that HBV subgenotype C2(3) is extremely prevalent in Korean patients with chronic HBV infection, which is distinct from two other East Asian nations, China and Japan, where diverse subgenotypes or clades within genotype C coexist. This epidemiologic trait might affect distinct virological and clinical traits in chronic HBV patients in Korea, where exclusively C2(3) infection is predominant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hyun Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Min Choi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Junghwa Jang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bum-Joon Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Liver Research Institute, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Seoul National University Medical Research Center (SNUMRC), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Bum-Joon Kim,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Watanabe M, Toyoda H, Kawabata T. Rapid quantification assay of hepatitis B virus DNA in human serum and plasma by Fully Automated Genetic Analyzer μTASWako g1. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278143. [PMID: 36758029 PMCID: PMC9910706 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Real-time monitoring of serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) levels is essential for the management of patients with chronic HBV infection in clinical practice, including monitoring the resistance of anti-HBV nucleotide analog or the detection of HBV reactivation. In this context, serum HBV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) quantification should be rapidly measured. A rapid HBV DNA quantification assay was established on the Fully Automated Genetic Analyzer, μTASWako g1. The assay performs automated sample preparation and DNA extraction, followed by the amplification and detection of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) combined with capillary electrophoresis (qPCR-CE) on integrated microfluidic chip. This study aimed to evaluate the analytical and clinical performance of HBV DNA assay on the μTASWako g1 platform in human serum and EDTA-plasma. The HBV DNA assay has a linear quantitative range from 20 to 108 IU/mL of HBV DNA with standard deviation (SD) of ≤0.14 log10 IU/mL. The limits of detection of the assay were 4.18 for the serum and 4.35 for EDTA-plasma. The HBV assay demonstrated the equivalent performance in both human serum and EDTA-plasma matrices. The HBV genotypes A to H were detected with an accuracy of ±0.34 log10 IU/mL. In quantification range, the HBV DNA assay was correlated with Roche cobas AmpliPrep/cobas TaqMan Ver2.0 (CAP/CTM v2) (r = 0.964). The mean difference (μTASWako g1-CAP/CTM v2) of the reported HBV DNA was -0.01 log10 IU/mL. Overall, the sensitivity, accuracy, and precision of the μTASWako g1 HBV assay were comparable to the existing commercial HBV DNA assay, and the assay can be completed within 110 min. This evaluation suggests that the HBV DNA assay on the μTASWako g1 is potentially applied for alternative method of the HBV viral load test, in particular with the advantage of the HBV DNA result availability within 2 h, improving the HBV infection management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moto Watanabe
- Diagnostics Research Laboratories, FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation, Amagasaki, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Hidenori Toyoda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Kawabata
- Department of Diagnostics Development, FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Duchen D, Clipman S, Vergara C, Thio CL, Thomas DL, Duggal P, Wojcik GL. A hepatitis B virus (HBV) sequence variation graph improves sequence alignment and sample-specific consensus sequence construction for genetic analysis of HBV. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.11.523611. [PMID: 36711598 PMCID: PMC9882026 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.11.523611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a global public health concern, with over 250 million individuals living with chronic HBV infection (CHB) and no curative therapy currently available. Viral diversity is associated with CHB pathogenesis and immunological control of infection. Improved methods to characterize the viral genome at both the population and intra-host level could aid drug development efforts. Conventionally, HBV sequencing data are aligned to a linear reference genome and only sequences capable of aligning to the reference are captured for analysis. Reference selection has additional consequences, including sample-specific 'consensus' sequence construction. It remains unclear how to select a reference from available sequences and whether a single reference is sufficient for genetic analyses. Using simulated short-read sequencing data generated from full-length publicly available HBV genome sequences and HBV sequencing data from a longitudinally sampled individual with CHB, we investigate alternative graph-based alignment approaches. We demonstrate that using a phylogenetically representative 'genome graph' for alignment, rather than linear reference sequences, avoids issues of reference ambiguity, improves alignment, and facilitates the construction of sample-specific consensus sequences genetically similar to an individual's infection. Graph-based methods can therefore improve efforts to characterize the genetics of viral pathogens, including HBV, and may have broad implications in host pathogen research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Duchen
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Steven Clipman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Candelaria Vergara
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Chloe L Thio
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - David L Thomas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Priya Duggal
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Genevieve L Wojcik
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Downs LO, Campbell C, Yonga P, Githinji G, Ansari MA, Matthews PC, Etyang AO. A systematic review of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) prevalence and genotypes in Kenya: Data to inform clinical care and health policy. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001165. [PMID: 36963057 PMCID: PMC10022289 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate available prevalence and viral sequencing data representing chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection in Kenya. More than 20% of the global disease burden from CHB is in Africa, however there is minimal high quality seroprevalence data from individual countries and little viral sequencing data available to represent the continent. We undertook a systematic review of the prevalence and genetic data available for hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Kenya using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) 2020 checklist. We identified 23 studies reporting HBV prevalence and 8 studies that included HBV genetic data published in English between January 2000 and December 2021. We assessed study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. Due to study heterogeneity, we divided the studies to represent low, moderate, high and very high-risk for HBV infection, identifying 8, 7, 5 and 3 studies in these groups, respectively. We calculated pooled HBV prevalence within each group and evaluated available sequencing data. Pooled HBV prevalence was 3.4% (95% CI 2.7-4.2%), 6.1% (95% CI 5.1-7.4%), 6.2% (95% CI 4.64-8.2) and 29.2% (95% CI 12.2-55.1), respectively. Study quality was overall low; only three studies detailed sample size calculation and 17/23 studies were cross sectional. Eight studies included genetic information on HBV, with two undertaking whole genome sequencing. Genotype A accounted for 92% of infections. Other genotypes included genotype D (6%), D/E recombinants (1%) or mixed populations (1%). Drug resistance mutations were reported by two studies. There is an urgent need for more high quality seroprevalence and genetic data to represent HBV in Kenya to underpin improved HBV screening, treatment and prevention in order to support progress towards elimination targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise O Downs
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Cori Campbell
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Yonga
- CA Medlynks Clinic and Laboratory, Nairobi, and Fountain Projects and Research Office, Fountain Health Care Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - George Githinji
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - M Azim Ansari
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa C Matthews
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospital, London, London, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Xiao Y, Cui Z, Sun L, Zhou X, Li L, Wu L, Quan Y, Cui X. Lack of geographical and ethnic distribution of Hepatitis B virus genotypes in Hainan Island, China. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 107:105401. [PMID: 36586460 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2022.105401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies showed that the distribution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype exhibited geographical and ethnic characteristics. Haikou city is the largest city on Hainan Island that geographically isolated from mainland of China, and is the home of multiple ethnic groups. The aim of the study was to investigate the characteristics of the HBV genotype/subgenotype distribution in Haikou city. HBV DNA was isolated from180 serum samples derived from the Han and Li groups. The HBV genotype was detected by polymerase chain reaction using genotype-specific primers and was further determined by full-length genome sequences. The results revealed that the genotype B (37.2%) and C (62.8%) were the predominant HBV genotypes in Haikou, regardless of ethnic background., Additionally, the genotype distribution was not significantly different regarding ethnicity, sex or level of serum HBV DNA. Moreover, there were multiple subgenotypes circulating in the region. In conclusion, our study revealed the diverse HBV genotypes/subgenotypes in Haikou. These findings provide a preliminary study of the distribution of HBV genotypes circulating on Hainan Island.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yihan Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China; School of basic medicine and life science, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China
| | - Zhigang Cui
- School of basic medicine and life science, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China
| | - Long Sun
- Department of Infectious Disease, The first affiliated hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hainan affiliated hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China
| | - Lihua Li
- School of basic medicine and life science, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China
| | - Lixian Wu
- School of basic medicine and life science, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China
| | - Yunfan Quan
- School of Tropical Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China.
| | - Xiuji Cui
- School of basic medicine and life science, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China; Key laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China; Hainan Medical University-The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Marcelino R, Ezeonwumelu IJ, Janeiro A, Mimoso P, Matos S, Briz V, Pimentel V, Pingarilho M, Tato Marinho R, Maria Marcelino J, Taveira N, Abecasis A. Phylogeography of hepatitis B virus: The role of Portugal in the early dissemination of HBV worldwide. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276618. [PMID: 36548381 PMCID: PMC9778982 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In Portugal, the genetic diversity, origin of HBV and the Portuguese role in the dissemination of HBV worldwide were never investigated. In this work, we studied the epidemic history and transmission dynamics of HBV genotypes that are endemic in Portugal. HBV pol gene was sequenced from 130 patients followed in Lisbon. HBV genotype A was the most prevalent (n = 54, 41.5%), followed by D (n = 44, 33.8%), and E (n = 32, 24.6%). Spatio-temporal evolutionary dynamics was reconstructed in BEAST using a Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo method, with a GTR nucleotide substitution model, an uncorrelated lognormal relaxed molecular clock model, a Bayesian skyline plot, and a continuous diffusion model. HBV subgenotype D4 was the first to be introduced in Portugal around 1857 (HPD 95% 1699-1931) followed by D3 and A2 a few decades later. HBV genotype E and subgenotype A1 were introduced in Portugal later, almost simultaneously. Our results indicate a very important role of Portugal in the exportation of subgenotypes D4 and A2 to Brazil and Cape Verde, respectively, in the beginning of the XX century. This work clarifies the epidemiological history of HBV in Portugal and provides new insights in the early and global epidemic history of this virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rute Marcelino
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz (CiiEM), Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Caparica, Portugal
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical/Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT/UNL), Lisboa, Portugal
- * E-mail:
| | - Ifeanyi Jude Ezeonwumelu
- AIDS Research Institute-IrsiCaixa and Health Research Institute Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - André Janeiro
- Faculdade de Medicina de Lisboa, GenoMed–Diagnósticos de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Paula Mimoso
- Faculdade de Medicina de Lisboa, GenoMed–Diagnósticos de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sónia Matos
- Faculdade de Medicina de Lisboa, GenoMed–Diagnósticos de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Veronica Briz
- Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Victor Pimentel
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical/Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT/UNL), Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marta Pingarilho
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical/Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT/UNL), Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rui Tato Marinho
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Santa Maria Hospital, Medical School of Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José Maria Marcelino
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz (CiiEM), Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Caparica, Portugal
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Nuno Taveira
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz (CiiEM), Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Caparica, Portugal
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Abecasis
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical/Universidade Nova de Lisboa (IHMT/UNL), Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lourenço J, McNaughton AL, Pley C, Obolski U, Gupta S, Matthews PC. Polymorphisms predicting phylogeny in hepatitis B virus. Virus Evol 2022; 9:veac116. [PMID: 36628296 PMCID: PMC9825179 DOI: 10.1093/ve/veac116] [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: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B viruses (HBVs) are compact viruses with circular genomes of ∼3.2 kb in length. Four genes (HBx, Core, Surface, and Polymerase) generating seven products are encoded on overlapping reading frames. Ten HBV genotypes have been characterised (A-J), which may account for differences in transmission, outcomes of infection, and treatment response. However, HBV genotyping is rarely undertaken, and sequencing remains inaccessible in many settings. We set out to assess which amino acid (aa) sites in the HBV genome are most informative for determining genotype, using a machine learning approach based on random forest algorithms (RFA). We downloaded 5,496 genome-length HBV sequences from a public database, excluding recombinant sequences, regions with conserved indels, and genotypes I and J. Each gene was separately translated into aa, and the proteins concatenated into a single sequence (length 1,614 aa). Using RFA, we searched for aa sites predictive of genotype and assessed covariation among the sites with a mutual information-based method. We were able to discriminate confidently between genotypes A-H using ten aa sites. Half of these sites (5/10) sites were identified in Polymerase (Pol), of which 4/5 were in the spacer domain and one in reverse transcriptase. A further 4/10 sites were located in Surface protein and a single site in HBx. There were no informative sites in Core. Properties of the aa were generally not conserved between genotypes at informative sites. Among the highest co-varying pairs of sites, there were fifty-five pairs that included one of these 'top ten' sites. Overall, we have shown that RFA analysis is a powerful tool for identifying aa sites that predict the HBV lineage, with an unexpectedly high number of such sites in the spacer domain, which has conventionally been viewed as unimportant for structure or function. Our results improve ease of genotype prediction from limited regions of HBV sequences and may have future applications in understanding HBV evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Caitlin Pley
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Uri Obolski
- School of Public Health, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel,Porter School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Sunetra Gupta
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Elizalde MM, Mojsiejczuk L, Speroni M, Bouzas B, Tadey L, Mammana L, Campos RH, Flichman DM. Molecular and biological characterization of hepatitis B virus subgenotype F1b clusters: Unraveling its role in hepatocarcinogenesis. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:946703. [PMID: 35966715 PMCID: PMC9363773 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.946703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) subgenotype F1b infection has been associated with the early occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronically infected patients from Alaska and Peru. In Argentina, however, despite the high prevalence of subgenotype F1b infection, this relationship has not been described. To unravel the observed differences in the progression of the infection, an in-depth molecular and biological characterization of the subgenotype F1b was performed. Phylogenetic analysis of subgenotype F1b full-length genomes revealed the existence of two highly supported clusters. One of the clusters, designated as gtF1b Basal included sequences mostly from Alaska, Peru and Chile, while the other, called gtF1b Cosmopolitan, contained samples mainly from Argentina and Chile. The clusters were characterized by a differential signature pattern of eight nucleotides distributed throughout the genome. In vitro characterization of representative clones from each cluster revealed major differences in viral RNA levels, virion secretion, antigen expression levels, as well as in the localization of the antigens. Interestingly, a differential regulation in the expression of genes associated with tumorigenesis was also identified. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the molecular and biological characteristics of the subgenotype F1b clusters and contributes to unravel the different clinical outcomes of subgenotype F1b chronic infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Mercedes Elizalde
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: María Mercedes Elizalde,
| | - Laura Mojsiejczuk
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Cátedra de Virología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Micaela Speroni
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Belén Bouzas
- Unidad de Virología, Hospital de Infecciosas “Francisco J. Muñiz”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciana Tadey
- Unidad de Virología, Hospital de Infecciosas “Francisco J. Muñiz”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lilia Mammana
- Unidad de Virología, Hospital de Infecciosas “Francisco J. Muñiz”, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo Héctor Campos
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Cátedra de Virología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Diego Martín Flichman
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sun Y, Zhang Y, Zhang X. Complementary Effects of Virus Population Are Required for Efficient Virus Infection. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:877702. [PMID: 35633682 PMCID: PMC9137883 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.877702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is believed that the virions of a virus infecting a host may share the identical viral genome and characteristics. However, the role of genomic heterogeneity of the virions of a virus in virus infection has not been extensively explored. To address this issue, white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), a DNA virus infecting crustaceans, was characterized in the current study. In WSSV, differences in two nucleotides of the viral genome generated two types of WSSV, forming a virus population that consisted of Type A WSSV (encoding WSSV lncRNA-24) and Type B WSSV (encoding the wsv195 gene) at a ratio of 1:3. The virus populations in all virus-infected cells and tissues of different hosts exhibited a stable 1:3 structure. WSSV lncRNA-24 in Type A WSSV promoted virus infection by binding to shrimp and WSSV miRNAs, while the wsv195 gene in Type B WSSV played an essential role in virus infection. Loss of Type A WSSV or Type B WSSV in the WSSV population led to a 100-fold decrease in viral copy number in shrimp. Simultaneous loss of both types of WSSV prevented virus infection. These results indicated that the virus infection process was completed by two types of WSSV encoding different functional genes, revealing the complementary effects of WSSV population. Therefore, our study highlights the importance of the complementarity of virus population components in virus infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xiaobo Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Pley C, Lourenço J, McNaughton AL, Matthews PC. Spacer Domain in Hepatitis B Virus Polymerase: Plugging a Hole or Performing a Role? J Virol 2022; 96:e0005122. [PMID: 35412348 PMCID: PMC9093120 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00051-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) polymerase is divided into terminal protein, spacer, reverse transcriptase, and RNase domains. Spacer has previously been considered dispensable, merely acting as a tether between other domains or providing plasticity to accommodate deletions and mutations. We explore evidence for the role of spacer sequence, structure, and function in HBV evolution and lineage, consider its associations with escape from drugs, vaccines, and immune responses, and review its potential impacts on disease outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Pley
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - José Lourenço
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Anna L. McNaughton
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford Medawar Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa C. Matthews
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford Medawar Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Araujo NM, Osiowy C. Hepatitis B Virus Genotype G: The Odd Cousin of the Family. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:872766. [PMID: 35432294 PMCID: PMC9009205 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.872766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With a widespread distribution but low prevalence worldwide, the hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype G (HBV/G) is a recently described genotype for which the origin and biology are poorly understood. Some unique features make HBV/G the most peculiar of all genotypes. In this review, we reflect on the major milestones in HBV/G research, highlighting the main aspects of its discovery, molecular epidemiology, and virological and clinical characteristics. We also illustrate common pitfalls in the routine detection, which may lead to underestimated rates of HBV/G infection. Large-scale analysis of data from dozens of articles was further performed, with the aim of gaining comprehensive insights into the epidemiological aspects of HBV/G. Finally, we point out recent findings on HBV/G origins and discuss new perspectives regarding the evolutionary history of HBV/G and the plausibility of an African geographic re-emergence of this genotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia M. Araujo
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carla Osiowy
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Carla Osiowy,
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Discrepant results of hepatitis B virus genotype determination by PCR and DNA sequencing. J Virol Methods 2022; 303:114503. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2022.114503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
22
|
Elizalde MM, Tadey L, Mammana L, Quarleri JF, Campos RH, Flichman DM. Biological Characterization of Hepatitis B virus Genotypes: Their Role in Viral Replication and Antigen Expression. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:758613. [PMID: 34803982 PMCID: PMC8600256 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.758613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) inter-host evolution has resulted in genomic diversification reflected in the existence of nine genotypes (A-I) and numerous subgenotypes. There is growing evidence that genotypes influence HBV natural history, clinical outcomes, and treatment response. However, the biological characteristics underlying these differences have not yet been established. By transfecting HuH-7 cells with unit-length constructs of genotypes A2, B2, C1, D1, and F1b, we identified major differences in HBV replicative capacity and antigen expression across genotypes. Genotypes B2 and F1b showed a 2-fold increase in cccDNA levels compared to the other genotypes (p<0.005). Genotype A2 expressed the lowest pgRNA levels, with a 70-fold decrease in relation to the other genotypes (p<0.0001), while genotype B2 showed the lowest Precore RNA levels, with a 100-fold reduction compared to genotype A2 (p<0.0001). The highest intracellular HBV DNA levels were observed for genotype B2 and the lowest for genotypes A2 and C1 (p<0.0001). Regarding antigen expression, genotype F1b secreted the highest HBsAg levels and genotype D1 the lowest (p<0.0001), while genotypes A2 and B2 showed the highest intracellular HBsAg levels (p<0.0001). Interestingly, genotype C1 secreted the highest HBeAg levels, while genotype A2 showed the highest intracellular levels (p<0.0001). Finally, the analysis of the intra/extracellular antigen ratios revealed that most genotypes retained intracellularly 5-20% of the antigens, except the genotype A2 that retained 50% of the total expressed antigens. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the biological characteristics of HBV genotypes, being the first study to comparatively analyze European (A and D) and Asian (B and C) genotypes with the Latin American (F) genotype. The differences in HBV replication and antigen expression might contribute to understand the differential role of genotypes in pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Mercedes Elizalde
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciana Tadey
- Unidad de Virología, Hospital de Infecciosas "Francisco J. Muñiz", Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lilia Mammana
- Unidad de Virología, Hospital de Infecciosas "Francisco J. Muñiz", Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge Fabián Quarleri
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo Héctor Campos
- Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Cátedra de Virología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Diego Martín Flichman
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Deep sequencing of hepatitis B virus using Ion Torrent fusion primer method. J Virol Methods 2021; 299:114315. [PMID: 34648822 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2021.114315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is worldwide a major cause of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Thousands of years ago, several HBV genotypes (A-I) evolved and have, as a result of human migration, become globally disseminated. Sequencing of HBV is used for genotyping, and investigation of outbreaks or of antiviral resistance. The present study describes a simplified deep sequencing of the whole HBV genome. METHODS Sequencing by Ion Torrent was evaluated and its performance compared with Sanger sequencing on clinical samples. RESULTS Amplification of overlapping segments spanning the entire HBV genome was successful at HBV DNA levels in serum as low as 100 IU/mL. The use of primers carrying adapter tags generated libraries without the need for fragmentation and ligation steps, and inclusion of barcode sequences allowed parallel analysis of multiple samples. A streamlined bioinformatic platform generated consensus sequences and superior mutation assessment as compared with Sanger sequencing, with which there was a 99.8 % average agreement. CONCLUSION Deep sequencing of the whole HBV genome by using PCR primers tagged with adapters that prepare overlapping amplicons for Ion Torrent analysis was efficient and accurate.
Collapse
|
24
|
Chowdhury FR, McNaughton AL, Amin MR, Barai L, Saha MR, Rahman T, Das BC, Hasan MR, Islam KMS, Faiz MA, Al-Mahtab M, Mokaya J, Kronsteiner B, Jeffery K, Andersson MI, de Cesare M, Ansari MA, Dunachie S, Matthews PC. Endemic HBV among hospital in-patients in Bangladesh, including evidence of occult infection. J Gen Virol 2021; 102. [PMID: 34328828 PMCID: PMC8491891 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bangladesh is one of the top-ten most heavily burdened countries for viral hepatitis, with hepatitis B (HBV) infections responsible for the majority of cases. Recombinant and occult HBV infections (OBI) have been reported previously in the region. We investigated an adult fever cohort (n=201) recruited in Dhaka, to determine the prevalence of HBV and OBI. A target-enrichment deep sequencing pipeline was applied to samples with HBV DNA >3.0 log10 IU ml−1. HBV infection was present in 16/201 (8 %), among whom 3/16 (19 %) were defined as OBI (HBsAg-negative but detectable HBV DNA). Whole genome deep sequences (WGS) were obtained for four cases, identifying genotypes A, C and D. One OBI case had sufficient DNA for sequencing, revealing multiple polymorphisms in the surface gene that may contribute to the occult phenotype. We identified mutations associated with nucleos(t)ide analogue resistance in 3/4 samples sequenced, although the clinical significance in this cohort is unknown. The high prevalence of HBV in this setting illustrates the importance of opportunistic clinical screening and DNA testing of transfusion products to minimise OBI transmission. WGS can inform understanding of diverse disease phenotypes, supporting progress towards international targets for HBV elimination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fazle Rabbi Chowdhury
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK.,Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Anna L McNaughton
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| | | | - Lovely Barai
- Department of Microbiology, BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh
| | - Mili Rani Saha
- Department of Microbiology, BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh
| | - Tanjila Rahman
- Department of Microbiology, BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh
| | - Bikash Chandra Das
- Surveillance and Immunization Unit, World Health Organization Office, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh
| | - M Rokibul Hasan
- Department of Microbiology, BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh
| | - K M Shahidul Islam
- Department of Microbiology, BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh
| | - M A Faiz
- Dev Care Foundation, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh
| | - Mamun Al-Mahtab
- Department of Hepatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka 1200, Bangladesh
| | - Jolynne Mokaya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Barbara Kronsteiner
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Katie Jeffery
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Monique I Andersson
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Mariateresa de Cesare
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - M Azim Ansari
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Susanna Dunachie
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK.,Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Bangkok 10400, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Philippa C Matthews
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK.,NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Phan NMH, Faddy HM, Flower RL, Dimech WJ, Spann KM, Roulis EV. Low Genetic Diversity of Hepatitis B Virus Surface Gene amongst Australian Blood Donors. Viruses 2021; 13:1275. [PMID: 34208852 PMCID: PMC8310342 DOI: 10.3390/v13071275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Variants in the small surface gene of hepatitis B virus (HBV), which codes for viral surface antigen (HBsAg), can affect the efficacy of HBsAg screening assays and can be associated with occult HBV infection (OBI). This study aimed to characterise the molecular diversity of the HBV small surface gene from HBV-reactive Australian blood donors. HBV isolates from 16 HBsAg-positive Australian blood donors' plasma were sequenced and genotyped by phylogenies of viral coding genes and/or whole genomes. An analysis of the genetic diversity of eight HBV small surface genes from our 16 samples was conducted and compared with HBV sequences from NCBI of 164 international (non-Australian) blood donors. Genotypes A-D were identified in our samples. The region of HBV small surface gene that contained the sequence encoding the 'a' determinant had a greater genetic diversity than the remaining part of the gene. No escape mutants or OBI-related variants were observed in our samples. Variant call analysis revealed two samples with a nucleotide deletion leading to truncation of polymerase and/or large/middle surface amino acid sequences. Overall, we found that HBV small surface gene sequences from Australian donors demonstrated a lower level of genetic diversity than those from non-Australian donor population included in the study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc Minh Hien Phan
- Faculty of Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia; (H.M.F.); (R.L.F.); (K.M.S.); (E.V.R.)
- Research and Development, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia
| | - Helen M. Faddy
- Faculty of Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia; (H.M.F.); (R.L.F.); (K.M.S.); (E.V.R.)
- Research and Development, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of Sunshine Coast, Petrie, Queensland 4502, Australia
| | - Robert L. Flower
- Faculty of Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia; (H.M.F.); (R.L.F.); (K.M.S.); (E.V.R.)
- Research and Development, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia
| | - Wayne J. Dimech
- Scientific & Business Relations, National Serology Reference Laboratory, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia;
| | - Kirsten M. Spann
- Faculty of Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia; (H.M.F.); (R.L.F.); (K.M.S.); (E.V.R.)
| | - Eileen V. Roulis
- Faculty of Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia; (H.M.F.); (R.L.F.); (K.M.S.); (E.V.R.)
- Research and Development, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hepatitis B Virus Genotype Study in West Africa Reveals an Expanding Clade of Subgenotype A4. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9030623. [PMID: 33803011 PMCID: PMC8002614 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) classification comprises up to 10 genotypes with specific geographical distribution worldwide, further subdivided into 40 subgenotypes, which have different impacts on liver disease outcome. Though extensively studied, the classification of subgenotype A sequences remains ambiguous. This study aimed to characterize HBV isolates from West African patients and propose a more advanced classification of subgenotype A. Fourteen HBV full-length genome sequences isolated from patients from The Gambia and Senegal were obtained and phylogenetically analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis of HBV genotype A sequences isolated from Senegalese and Gambian patients exhibited separate clusters from the other known and confirmed subgenotypes A (A1, A2, A6). Most of the sequences (10/14) clustered with an isolate from Cuba, reported as subgenotype A4 (supported by maximal bootstrap value). Four isolates from The Gambia and Senegal clustered separately from all other subgenotypes and samples sequenced in the study. Three of which from The Gambia, designated as an expanding clade of subgenotype A4, exhibited a mean inter-subgenotypic nucleotide divergence over the entire genome sequence higher than 4% in comparison with the other subgenotypes and the other isolates sequenced in the study, except with subgenotype A4 isolates (3.9%), and this was supported by a maximal bootstrap value. The last one from Senegal seemed to be an expanding subgenotype close to the new clade of A4. Amino acid analysis unveiled a novel motif specific to these isolates. This study revealed an expanding evolution of HBV subgenotype A and novel amino acid motifs. It also highlighted the need for a consensus regarding the analysis and classification of HBV sequences.
Collapse
|
27
|
Dynamic Molecular Epidemiology Reveals Lineage-Associated Single-Nucleotide Variants That Alter RNA Structure in Chikungunya Virus. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12020239. [PMID: 33567556 PMCID: PMC7914560 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an emerging Alphavirus which causes millions of human infections every year. Outbreaks have been reported in Africa and Asia since the early 1950s, from three CHIKV lineages: West African, East Central South African, and Asian Urban. As new outbreaks occurred in the Americas, individual strains from the known lineages have evolved, creating new monophyletic groups that generated novel geographic-based lineages. Building on a recently updated phylogeny of CHIKV, we report here the availability of an interactive CHIKV phylodynamics dataset, which is based on more than 900 publicly available CHIKV genomes. We provide an interactive view of CHIKV molecular epidemiology built on Nextstrain, a web-based visualization framework for real-time tracking of pathogen evolution. CHIKV molecular epidemiology reveals single nucleotide variants that change the stability and fold of locally stable RNA structures. We propose alternative RNA structure formation in different CHIKV lineages by predicting more than a dozen RNA elements that are subject to perturbation of the structure ensemble upon variation of a single nucleotide.
Collapse
|
28
|
Downs LO, McNaughton AL, de Cesare M, Ansari MA, Martin J, Woodrow C, Bowden R, Collier J, Barnes E, Matthews PC. Case Report: Application of hepatitis B virus (HBV) deep sequencing to distinguish between acute and chronic infection. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 5:240. [PMID: 33458253 PMCID: PMC7802106 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.16157.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Deep sequencing of the full-length hepatitis B virus (HBV) genome provides the opportunity to determine the extent to which viral diversity, genotype, polymorphisms, insertions and deletions may influence presentation and outcomes of disease. Increasing experience with analysis of HBV genomic data opens up the potential for using these data to inform insights into pathophysiology of infection and to underpin decision making in clinical practice. We here set out to undertake whole genome HBV sequencing from an adult who presented acutely unwell with a new diagnosis of HBV infection, and tested positive for both HBV anti-core IgM and IgG, possibly representing either acute hepatitis B infection (AHB) or chronic hepatitis B with an acute reactivation (CHB-AR). The distinction between these two scenarios may be important in predicting prognosis and underpinning treatment decisions, but can be challenging based on routine laboratory tests. Through application of deep whole-genome sequencing we typed the isolate as genotype-D1, and identified several minority variants including G1764A and G1986A substitutions in the pre-core promoter and pre-core regions, which support CHB-AR rather than AHB. In the longer term, enhanced deep sequencing data for HBV may provide improved evidence to distinguish between acute and chronic infection, to predict outcomes and to stratify treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise O. Downs
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Anna L. McNaughton
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Mariateresa de Cesare
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - M. Azim Ansari
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jacqueline Martin
- Department of Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Charles Woodrow
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Rory Bowden
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jane Collier
- Department of Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Eleanor Barnes
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
- Department of Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford NIHR BRC, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Philippa C. Matthews
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
- Oxford NIHR BRC, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
de Bernardi Schneider A, Osiowy C, Hostager R, Krarup H, Børresen M, Tanaka Y, Morriseau T, Wertheim JO. Analysis of Hepatitis B Virus Genotype D in Greenland Suggests the Presence of a Novel Quasi-Subgenotype. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:602296. [PMID: 33519744 PMCID: PMC7843931 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.602296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A disproportionate number of Greenland's Inuit population are chronically infected with Hepatitis B virus (HBV; 5-10%). HBV genotypes B and D are most prevalent in the circumpolar Arctic. Here, we report 39 novel HBV/D sequences from individuals residing in southwestern Greenland. We performed phylodynamic analyses with ancient HBV DNA calibrators to investigate the origin and relationship of these taxa to other HBV sequences. We inferred a substitution rate of 1.4 × 10-5 [95% HPD 8.8 × 10-6, 2.0 × 10-5] and a time to the most recent common ancestor of 629 CE [95% HPD 37-1138 CE]. The Greenland taxa form a sister clade to HBV/D2 sequences, specifically New Caledonian and Indigenous Taiwanese sequences. The Greenland sequences share amino acid signatures with subgenotypes D1 and D2 and ~97% sequence identity. Our results suggest the classification of these novel sequences does not fit within the current nomenclature. Thus, we propose these taxa be considered a novel quasi-subgenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carla Osiowy
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Reilly Hostager
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Henrik Krarup
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Clinical Institute, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Malene Børresen
- Department of Epidemiological Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Yasuhito Tanaka
- Department of Virology & Liver, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Taylor Morriseau
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Joel O. Wertheim
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lim CS, Sozzi V, Littlejohn M, Yuen LK, Warner N, Betz-Stablein B, Luciani F, Revill PA, Brown CM. Quantitative analysis of the splice variants expressed by the major hepatitis B virus genotypes. Microb Genom 2021; 7:mgen000492. [PMID: 33439114 PMCID: PMC8115900 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.000492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major human pathogen that causes liver diseases. The main HBV RNAs are unspliced transcripts that encode the key viral proteins. Recent studies have shown that some of the HBV spliced transcript isoforms are predictive of liver cancer, yet the roles of these spliced transcripts remain elusive. Furthermore, there are nine major HBV genotypes common in different regions of the world, these genotypes may express different spliced transcript isoforms. To systematically study the HBV splice variants, we transfected human hepatoma cells, Huh7, with four HBV genotypes (A2, B2, C2 and D3), followed by deep RNA-sequencing. We found that 13-28 % of HBV RNAs were splice variants, which were reproducibly detected across independent biological replicates. These comprised 6 novel and 10 previously identified splice variants. In particular, a novel, singly spliced transcript was detected in genotypes A2 and D3 at high levels. The biological relevance of these splice variants was supported by their identification in HBV-positive liver biopsy and serum samples, and in HBV-infected primary human hepatocytes. Interestingly the levels of HBV splice variants varied across the genotypes, but the spliced pregenomic RNA SP1 and SP9 were the two most abundant splice variants. Counterintuitively, these singly spliced SP1 and SP9 variants had a suboptimal 5' splice site, supporting the idea that splicing of HBV RNAs is tightly controlled by the viral post-transcriptional regulatory RNA element.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun Shen Lim
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Vitina Sozzi
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret Littlejohn
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lilly K.W. Yuen
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nadia Warner
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brigid Betz-Stablein
- Systems Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Present address: Dermatology Research Centre, Diamantina Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Fabio Luciani
- Systems Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter A. Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chris M. Brown
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Downs LO, McNaughton AL, de Cesare M, Ansari MA, Martin J, Woodrow C, Bowden R, Collier J, Barnes E, Matthews PC. Case Report: Application of hepatitis B virus (HBV) deep sequencing to distinguish between acute and chronic infection. Wellcome Open Res 2020; 5:240. [PMID: 33458253 PMCID: PMC7802106 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.16157.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Deep sequencing of the full-length hepatitis B virus (HBV) genome provides the opportunity to determine the extent to which viral diversity, genotype, polymorphisms, insertions and deletions may influence presentation and outcomes of disease. Increasing experience with analysis of HBV genomic data opens up the potential for using these data to inform insights into pathophysiology of infection and to underpin decision making in clinical practice. We here set out to undertake whole genome HBV sequencing from an adult who presented acutely unwell with a new diagnosis of HBV infection, and tested positive for both HBV anti-core IgM and IgG, possibly representing either acute hepatitis B infection (AHB) or chronic hepatitis B with an acute reactivation (CHB-AR). The distinction between these two scenarios may be important in predicting prognosis and underpinning treatment decisions, but can be challenging based on routine laboratory tests. Through application of deep whole-genome sequencing we typed the isolate as genotype-D1, and identified several minority variants including G1764A and G1986A substitutions in the pre-core promoter and pre-core regions, which support CHB-AR rather than AHB. In the longer term, enhanced deep sequencing data for HBV may provide improved evidence to distinguish between acute and chronic infection, to predict outcomes and to stratify treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise O. Downs
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Anna L. McNaughton
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Mariateresa de Cesare
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - M. Azim Ansari
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jacqueline Martin
- Department of Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Charles Woodrow
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Rory Bowden
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jane Collier
- Department of Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Eleanor Barnes
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
- Department of Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford NIHR BRC, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Philippa C. Matthews
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
- Oxford NIHR BRC, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Cohen D, Ghosh S, Shimakawa Y, Ramou N, Garcia PS, Dubois A, Guillot C, Kakwata-Nkor Deluce N, Tilloy V, Durand G, Voegele C, Ndow G, d'Alessandro U, Brochier-Armanet C, Alain S, Le Calvez-Kelm F, Hall J, Zoulim F, Mendy M, Thursz M, Lemoine M, Chemin I. Hepatitis B virus preS2Δ38-55 variants: A newly identified risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma. JHEP Rep 2020; 2:100144. [PMID: 32904132 PMCID: PMC7452365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Although HBV is a major cause of death in Africa, its genetic variability has been poorly documented. This study aimed to address whether HBV genotype and surface gene variants are associated with HBV-related liver disease in The Gambia. METHODS We conducted a case-control study nested in the Prevention of Liver Fibrosis and Cancer in Africa programme. Consecutive treatment-naive patients with chronic HBV infection and detectable viral load were recruited: 211 controls with no significant liver disease and 91 cases (56 cirrhosis and 35 HCC cases). HBV genotypes and surface gene variants were determined by Sanger sequencing or next-generation sequencing (NGS) in serum DNA. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-specific codon 249 TP53 mutation was determined by NGS in circulating cell-free plasma DNA. RESULTS In phylogenetic analysis, 85% of individuals carried HBV genotype E, 14% genotype A, and 1% A/E recombinant viruses. Surface gene variants were more frequently observed in cases (43% and 57% in cirrhosis and HCC cases, respectively) than controls (25%; p <0.001), with preS2 deletions between nucleotides 38-55 (preS2Δ38-55) being the main genetic variant detected. In multivariable analysis, HBeAg seropositivity, low HBsAg levels, and HDV seropositivity were significantly associated with cirrhosis and HCC, whilst older age, higher viral load, genotype A, preS2Δ38-55, and AFB1 exposure were only associated with HCC. There was a multiplicative joint effect of preS2Δ38-55 variants with HBeAg seropositivity (odds ratio [OR] 43.1 [10.4-177.7]), high viral load >2,000 IU/ml (OR 22.7 [8.0-64.9]), HBsAg levels <10,000 IU/ml (OR 19.0 [5.5-65.3]), and AFB1 exposure (OR 29.3 [3.7-230.4]) on HCC risk. CONCLUSIONS This study identified a hotspot for HBV preS2 deletions as a strong independent factor for HCC in The Gambia, with HBV genotypes and AFB1 exposure contributing to the high liver cancer risk. LAY SUMMARY Although HBV-related liver disease is highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, the associated virological characteristics are poorly studied. Using clinical data from African patients chronically infected with HBV, an assessment of the virological variability (genotypes and mutations) and exposure to AFB1, a toxin often contaminating food, was carried out. Our results show that HBV genotypes, the presence of a highly prevalent mutant form of HBV, and AFB1 exposure contribute to the high liver cancer risk in this population.
Collapse
Key Words
- AFB1, aflatoxin B1
- AFP, alpha-fetoprotein
- Aflatoxin B1
- Africa
- Carcinogenesis
- Cirrhosis
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- Genotype
- Hepatitis B virus
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- LSM, liver stiffness measurement
- NBS1, Nijmegen breakage syndrome 1
- NGS, next-generation sequencing
- OR, odds ratio
- PROLIFICA, Prevention of Liver Fibrosis and Cancer in Africa
- PreS deletion
- ROC, receiver operating characteristic
- SSA, sub-Saharan Africa
- WT, wild type
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damien Cohen
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Sumantra Ghosh
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Yusuke Shimakawa
- Unité d'Épidémiologie des Maladies Émergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Njie Ramou
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Pierre Simon Garcia
- Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, Villeurbanne, France
- Molecular Microbiology and Structural Biochemistry, Institut de Biologie et de Chimie des Protéines 7 passage du Vercors, Lyon Cedex, France
| | - Anaëlle Dubois
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Clément Guillot
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Nora Kakwata-Nkor Deluce
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Valentin Tilloy
- Microbiology Department, CHU Limoges, Genomic Platform GenoLim, UMR Inserm 1092/FR CNRS 145 GEIST, Faculté de Médecine-Université de Limoges, CHU Dupuytren, CBRS, Limoges, France
| | | | | | - Gibril Ndow
- Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Umberto d'Alessandro
- Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Céline Brochier-Armanet
- Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Sophie Alain
- Microbiology Department, CHU Limoges, Genomic Platform GenoLim, UMR Inserm 1092/FR CNRS 145 GEIST, Faculté de Médecine-Université de Limoges, CHU Dupuytren, CBRS, Limoges, France
| | | | - Janet Hall
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Department of Hepatology, Groupement Hospitalier Nord, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Maimuna Mendy
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Mark Thursz
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Liver Unit, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Maud Lemoine
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Liver Unit, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Isabelle Chemin
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lau KC, Burak KW, Coffin CS. Impact of Hepatitis B Virus Genetic Variation, Integration, and Lymphotropism in Antiviral Treatment and Oncogenesis. Microorganisms 2020; 8:E1470. [PMID: 32987867 PMCID: PMC7599633 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8101470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection poses a significant global health burden. Although, effective treatment and vaccinations against HBV are available, challenges still exist, particularly in the development of curative therapies. The dynamic nature and unique features of HBV such as viral variants, integration of HBV DNA into host chromosomes, and extrahepatic reservoirs are considerations towards understanding the virus biology and developing improved anti-HBV treatments. In this review, we highlight the importance of these viral characteristics in the context of treatment and oncogenesis. Viral genotype and genetic variants can serve as important predictive factors for therapeutic response and outcomes in addition to oncogenic risk. HBV integration, particularly in coding genes, is implicated in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, we will discuss emerging research that has identified various HBV nucleic acids and infection markers within extrahepatic sites (lymphoid cells). Intriguingly, the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-associated HBV variants and viral integration within the lymphoid cells may contribute towards the development of extrahepatic malignancies. Improved understanding of these HBV characteristics will enhance the development of a cure for chronic HBV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keith C.K. Lau
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
- Calgary Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
| | - Kelly W. Burak
- Calgary Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
| | - Carla S. Coffin
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
- Calgary Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Mokaya J, Maponga TG, McNaughton AL, Van Schalkwyk M, Hugo S, Singer JB, Sreenu VB, Bonsall D, de Cesare M, Andersson M, Gabriel S, Taljaard J, Barnes E, Preiser W, Van Rensburg C, Matthews PC. Evidence of tenofovir resistance in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection: An observational case series of South African adults. J Clin Virol 2020; 129:104548. [PMID: 32663786 PMCID: PMC7408481 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2020.104548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is widely recommended for treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection because it is safe, affordable and has a high genetic barrier to resistance. TDF resistance associated mutations (RAMs) have been reported, but data are limited, particularly for Africa. We set out to identify potential RAMs in individuals with detectable HBV viraemia on TDF treatment. METHODS We recruited adults with chronic HBV infection from Cape Town, South Africa, identifying individuals with a TDF resistance phenotype, defined as persistent HBV vireamia despite >12 months of TDF treatment. We sequenced HBV DNA using MiSeq Illumina with whole genome target enrichment, and sought potential TDF RAMs, based on a pre-defined list of polymorphisms. RESULTS Among 66 individuals with chronic HBV (genotypes A and D), three met our clinical definition for TDF resistance, of whom two were coinfected with HIV. In one participant, the consensus HBV sequence contained nine polymorphisms that have been described in association with TDF resistance. Significant treatment non-adherence in this individual was unlikely, as HIV RNA was suppressed. TDF RAMs were also present in HBV sequences from the other two participants, but other factors including treatment non-adherence may also have had a role in failure of HBV DNA suppression in these cases. DISCUSSION Our findings add to the evidence that RAMs in HBV reverse transcriptase may underpin a TDF resistant phenotype. This is the first time these RAMs have been reported from Africa in association with clinical evidence of TDF resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jolynne Mokaya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Tongai G Maponga
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University / National Health Laboratory Service Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anna L McNaughton
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Marije Van Schalkwyk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University / Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Susan Hugo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University / Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joshua B Singer
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Bearsden Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Vattipally B Sreenu
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Bearsden Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - David Bonsall
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; Big Data Institute, Old Road, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
| | | | - Monique Andersson
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University / National Health Laboratory Service Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Shiraaz Gabriel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University / Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jantje Taljaard
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University / Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eleanor Barnes
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK; Department of Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; National Institutes of Health Research Health Informatics Collaborative, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Wolfgang Preiser
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University / National Health Laboratory Service Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christo Van Rensburg
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University / Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Philippa C Matthews
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Medawar Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3SY, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; National Institutes of Health Research Health Informatics Collaborative, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
| |
Collapse
|