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Loomba R, Clark G, Teckman J, Ajmera V, Behling C, Brantly M, Brenner D, D'Armiento J, Fried MW, Iyer JS, Mandorfer M, Rockey DC, Tincopa M, Vuppalanchi R, Younossi Z, Krag A, Turner AM, Strnad P. Review article: New developments in biomarkers and clinical drug development in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency-related liver disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2024; 59:1183-1195. [PMID: 38516814 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alpha-1 antitrypsin liver disease (AATLD) occurs in a subset of patients with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Risk factors for disease progression and specific pathophysiologic features are not well known and validated non-invasive assessments for disease severity are lacking. Currently, there are no approved treatments for AATLD. AIMS To outline existing understanding of AATLD and to identify knowledge gaps critical to improving clinical trial design and development of new treatments. METHODS This report was developed following a multi-stakeholder forum organised by the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Related Liver Disease Expert Panel in which experts presented an overview of the available literature on this topic. RESULTS AATLD results from a 'gain of toxic function' and primarily manifests in those with the homozygous Pi*ZZ genotype. Accumulation of misfolded 'Z' AAT protein in liver cells triggers intracellular hepatocyte injury which may ultimately lead to hepatic fibrosis. Male gender, age over 50 years, persistently elevated liver tests, concomitant hepatitis B or C virus infection, and metabolic syndrome, including obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, are known risk factors for adult AATLD. While the gold standard for assessing AATLD disease activity is liver histology, less invasive measures with low intra- and inter-observer variability are needed. Measurement of liver stiffness shows promise; validated thresholds for staging AATLD are in development. Such advances will help patients by enabling risk stratification and personalised surveillance, along with streamlining the development process for novel therapies. CONCLUSIONS This inaugural forum generated a list of recommendations to address unmet needs in the field of AATLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Loomba
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Ginger Clark
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jeff Teckman
- Pediatrics and Biochemistry, St. Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Veeral Ajmera
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Cynthia Behling
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
- Pacific Rim Pathology Lab, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Mark Brantly
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - David Brenner
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jeanine D'Armiento
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Mattias Mandorfer
- Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Don C Rockey
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Monica Tincopa
- University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Raj Vuppalanchi
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | | | | | | | - Pavel Strnad
- University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Healthcare Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN RARE LIVER), Aachen, Germany
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Moura Cunha G, Fan B, Navin PJ, Olivié D, Venkatesh SK, Ehman RL, Sirlin CB, Tang A. Interpretation, Reporting, and Clinical Applications of Liver MR Elastography. Radiology 2024; 310:e231220. [PMID: 38470236 PMCID: PMC10982829 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.231220] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Chronic liver disease is highly prevalent and often leads to fibrosis or cirrhosis and complications such as liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. The diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis is crucial to determine management and mitigate complications. Liver biopsy for histologic assessment has limitations such as sampling bias and high interreader variability that reduce precision, which is particularly challenging in longitudinal monitoring. MR elastography (MRE) is considered the most accurate noninvasive technique for diagnosing and staging liver fibrosis. In MRE, low-frequency vibrations are applied to the abdomen, and the propagation of shear waves through the liver is analyzed to measure liver stiffness, a biomarker for the detection and staging of liver fibrosis. As MRE has become more widely used in clinical care and research, different contexts of use have emerged. This review focuses on the latest developments in the use of MRE for the assessment of liver fibrosis; provides guidance for image acquisition and interpretation; summarizes diagnostic performance, along with thresholds for diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis; discusses current and emerging clinical applications; and describes the latest technical developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Moura Cunha
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle,
Wash (G.M.C.); Department of Radiology, Université Laval, Québec,
Québec, Canada (B.F.); Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
Minn (P.J.N., S.K.V., R.L.E.); Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 1058 Rue Saint-Denis,
Montréal, QC, Canada H2X 3J4 (D.O., A.T.); and Department of Radiology,
University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (C.B.S.)
| | - Boyan Fan
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle,
Wash (G.M.C.); Department of Radiology, Université Laval, Québec,
Québec, Canada (B.F.); Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
Minn (P.J.N., S.K.V., R.L.E.); Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 1058 Rue Saint-Denis,
Montréal, QC, Canada H2X 3J4 (D.O., A.T.); and Department of Radiology,
University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (C.B.S.)
| | - Patrick J. Navin
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle,
Wash (G.M.C.); Department of Radiology, Université Laval, Québec,
Québec, Canada (B.F.); Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
Minn (P.J.N., S.K.V., R.L.E.); Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 1058 Rue Saint-Denis,
Montréal, QC, Canada H2X 3J4 (D.O., A.T.); and Department of Radiology,
University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (C.B.S.)
| | - Damien Olivié
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle,
Wash (G.M.C.); Department of Radiology, Université Laval, Québec,
Québec, Canada (B.F.); Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
Minn (P.J.N., S.K.V., R.L.E.); Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 1058 Rue Saint-Denis,
Montréal, QC, Canada H2X 3J4 (D.O., A.T.); and Department of Radiology,
University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (C.B.S.)
| | - Sudhakar K. Venkatesh
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle,
Wash (G.M.C.); Department of Radiology, Université Laval, Québec,
Québec, Canada (B.F.); Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
Minn (P.J.N., S.K.V., R.L.E.); Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 1058 Rue Saint-Denis,
Montréal, QC, Canada H2X 3J4 (D.O., A.T.); and Department of Radiology,
University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (C.B.S.)
| | - Richard L. Ehman
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle,
Wash (G.M.C.); Department of Radiology, Université Laval, Québec,
Québec, Canada (B.F.); Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
Minn (P.J.N., S.K.V., R.L.E.); Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 1058 Rue Saint-Denis,
Montréal, QC, Canada H2X 3J4 (D.O., A.T.); and Department of Radiology,
University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (C.B.S.)
| | - Claude B. Sirlin
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle,
Wash (G.M.C.); Department of Radiology, Université Laval, Québec,
Québec, Canada (B.F.); Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
Minn (P.J.N., S.K.V., R.L.E.); Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 1058 Rue Saint-Denis,
Montréal, QC, Canada H2X 3J4 (D.O., A.T.); and Department of Radiology,
University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (C.B.S.)
| | - An Tang
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle,
Wash (G.M.C.); Department of Radiology, Université Laval, Québec,
Québec, Canada (B.F.); Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
Minn (P.J.N., S.K.V., R.L.E.); Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 1058 Rue Saint-Denis,
Montréal, QC, Canada H2X 3J4 (D.O., A.T.); and Department of Radiology,
University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif (C.B.S.)
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Abreu N, Pereira VM, Pestana M, Jasmins L. Future Perspectives in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Liver Disease Associated with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. GE PORTUGUESE JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2023; 30:327-335. [PMID: 37868641 PMCID: PMC10586215 DOI: 10.1159/000528809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is one of the most common genetic diseases and is caused by mutations in the SERPINA1 gene. The homozygous Pi*Z variant is responsible for the majority of the classic severe form of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, which is characterized by markedly decreased levels of serum alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) with a strong predisposition to lung and liver disease. The diagnosis and early treatment of AATD-associated liver disease are challenges in clinical practice. In this review, the authors aim to summarize the current evidence of the non-invasive methods in the assessment of liver fibrosis, as well as to elucidate the main therapeutic strategies under investigation that may emerge in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nélia Abreu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Central Do Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Vítor Magno Pereira
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Central Do Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Madalena Pestana
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Central Do Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Luís Jasmins
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Central Do Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
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Huang DQ, Chan KE, Tan C, Zeng RW, Koh B, Ong EYH, Ong CCH, Ong CEY, Tan DJH, Lim WH, Cho E, Tan EXX, Teng MLP, Ng CH, Nah B, Lim MC, Muthiah M, Clark VC, Loomba R. Meta-analysis: Prevalence of significant or advanced fibrosis in adults with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 58:152-158. [PMID: 37089038 PMCID: PMC10330074 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of liver fibrosis detected by non-invasive imaging in alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency has not been systematically assessed. AIMS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the prevalence of significant fibrosis and advanced fibrosis in AAT deficiency based on non-invasive imaging. METHODS Medline and Embase electronic databases were searched for studies from inception to 13 November 2022 that provided data for the prevalence of fibrosis in adults with AAT deficiency. A generalised linear mixed model with Clopper-Pearson intervals was used to pool single-arm outcomes. RESULTS Of the 214 records identified, 8 studies were included. Five studies assessed fibrosis using vibration-controlled transient elastography. The prevalence of significant fibrosis (defined as ≥7.1 kPA) in Z homozygosity, Z heterozygosity and non-carrier status was 22.10% (five studies, 95% CI: 17.07-28.12), 9.24% (three studies, 95% CI: 4.68-17.45) and 5.38% (one study, 95% CI: 3.27-8.73), respectively, p < 0.0001, and the prevalence of advanced fibrosis (defined as ≥9.5 kPa) was 8.13% (five studies, 95% CI: 4.60-13.96), 2.96% (three studies, 95% CI: 1.49-5.81) and 1.08% (one study, 95% CI: 0.35-3.28), respectively, p = 0.003. There were limited data regarding the use of magnetic resonance elastography or acoustic radiation force impulse to assess for fibrosis. CONCLUSION More than one in five adult individuals with AAT deficiency and Z homozygosity harbour significant fibrosis, and nearly 1 in 10 harbours advanced fibrosis. The risk of fibrosis increases incrementally with the frequency of Pi*Z mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Q Huang
- NAFLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology. University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Kai En Chan
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Caitlyn Tan
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rebecca Wenling Zeng
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Benjamin Koh
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Elden Yen Hng Ong
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Charlotte Chung Hui Ong
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Christen En Ya Ong
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Darren JH Tan
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wen Hui Lim
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Elina Cho
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Eunice XX Tan
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Margaret LP Teng
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Cheng Han Ng
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Benjamin Nah
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mei Chin Lim
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Mark Muthiah
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Virginia C Clark
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Florida, United States
| | - Rohit Loomba
- NAFLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology. University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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Guillaud O, Dumortier J, Couchonnal-Bedoya E, Ruiz M. Wilson Disease and Alpha1-Antitrypsin Deficiency: A Review of Non-Invasive Diagnostic Tests. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13020256. [PMID: 36673066 PMCID: PMC9857715 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13020256] [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: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Wilson disease and alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency are two rare genetic diseases that may impact predominantly the liver and/or the brain, and the liver and/or the lung, respectively. The early diagnosis of these diseases is important in order to initiate a specific treatment, when available, ideally before irreversible organ damage, but also to initiate family screening. This review focuses on the non-invasive diagnostic tests available for clinicians in both diseases. These tests are crucial at diagnosis to reduce the potential diagnostic delay and assess organ involvement. They also play a pivotal role during follow-up to monitor disease progression and evaluate treatment efficacy of current or emerging therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Guillaud
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Centre National de Référence pour la Maladie de Wilson, 69500 Bron, France
- Ramsay Générale de Santé, Clinique de la Sauvegarde, 69009 Lyon, France
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Fédération des Spécialités Digestives, 69003 Lyon, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-4-72-11-95-19
| | - Jérôme Dumortier
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Centre National de Référence pour la Maladie de Wilson, 69500 Bron, France
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Fédération des Spécialités Digestives, 69003 Lyon, France
- Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Eduardo Couchonnal-Bedoya
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Centre National de Référence pour la Maladie de Wilson, 69500 Bron, France
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Service d’Hépatogastroentérologie et Nutrition Pédiatrique, 69500 Bron, France
| | - Mathias Ruiz
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Service d’Hépatogastroentérologie et Nutrition Pédiatrique, 69500 Bron, France
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Centre National de Référence pour l’Atrésie des Voies Biliaires et les Cholestases Génétiques, 69500 Bron, France
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Fromme M, Schneider CV, Trautwein C, Brunetti-Pierri N, Strnad P. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency: A re-surfacing adult liver disorder. J Hepatol 2022; 76:946-958. [PMID: 34848258 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) arises from mutations in the SERPINA1 gene encoding alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) that lead to AAT retention in the endoplasmic reticulum of hepatocytes, causing proteotoxic liver injury and loss-of-function lung disease. The homozygous Pi∗Z mutation (Pi∗ZZ genotype) is responsible for the majority of severe AATD cases and can precipitate both paediatric and adult liver diseases, while the heterozygous Pi∗Z mutation (Pi∗MZ genotype) is an established genetic modifier of liver disease. We review genotype-related hepatic phenotypes/disease predispositions. We also describe the mechanisms and factors promoting the development of liver disease, as well as approaches to evaluate the extent of liver fibrosis. Finally, we discuss emerging diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for the clinical management of this often neglected disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Fromme
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN RARE LIVER), Aachen, Germany
| | - Carolin V Schneider
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN RARE LIVER), Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Trautwein
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN RARE LIVER), Aachen, Germany
| | - Nicola Brunetti-Pierri
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, 80078 Naples, Italy; Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Health Care Provider of the European Reference Network on Rare Liver Disorders (ERN RARE LIVER), Aachen, Germany.
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Non-invasive diagnosis and follow-up of rare genetic liver diseases. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2022; 46:101768. [PMID: 34332127 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2021.101768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Rare genetic liver diseases can result in multi-systemic damage, which may compromise the patient's prognosis. Wilson's disease and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency must be investigated in any patient with unexplained liver disease. Cystic fibrosis screening of new-borns is now implemented in most high-prevalence countries. The diagnosis of these diseases can be strongly suggested with specific non-invasive tests. Molecular analysis gene for these diseases is long and tedious but is recommended to confirm the diagnosis and help for the family screening. Liver biopsy is not systematic and is discussed when it helps diagnosis. Currently, for these three diseases, non-invasive fibrosis markers could identify patients with risk of cirrhosis and complications. Rare genetic liver diseases can result in multi-systemic damage, which may compromise the patient's prognosis. Wilson's disease, must be investigated in any patient with unexplained liver disease and/or unexplained neurological or neuropsychiatric disorders. The diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical, biological features, including copper balance. The exchangeable copper/total copper ratio is a new sensible and specific biological marker, useful for the diagnosis of the disease. Timely diagnosis and treatment will prevent serious complications from the disease. Neurological evaluation and familial screening are essential in patients with Wilson's disease.
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Patel D, Teckman J. Liver disease with unknown etiology - have you ruled out alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency? Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2021; 12_suppl:2040622321995684. [PMID: 34408828 PMCID: PMC8367207 DOI: 10.1177/2040622321995684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Although a less well-known consequence of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) liver disease is the second leading cause of death among patients with the condition. The alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) protein is produced by hepatocytes within the liver, which retain pathological variants of AAT instead of secreting the proteinase inhibitor into the systemic circulation. This intracellular retention is caused by inefficient folding and polymerization of mutant AAT and the accumulation of these AAT aggregates leads to diverse manifestations of liver disease, which can present differently in both children and adults. The progression from hepatocyte apoptosis to liver inflammation, fibrosis and cirrhosis, and liver failure is still not fully understood, but in older patients, liver disease can surpass lung disease as the principal cause of death. Liver function tests (LFTs) can measure plasma levels of liver enzymes to assess liver function but require careful interpretation. Non-invasive tests are being developed that can detect early liver disease, but liver biopsy is still the gold standard for assessing liver fibrosis once abnormal LFTs have been detected in a patient. Currently, there is no licensed treatment for AATD-related liver disease (intravenous AAT therapy is not indicated for this purpose), but liver transplantation is associated with positive outcomes and may even slow emphysema progression. Therefore, new strategies are being developed to address treatment of AATD-related liver disease, such as accelerating degradation of mutant AAT and assisting hepatocytes in the folding and secretion of mutant AAT, but these approaches remain at early stages of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhiren Patel
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, St Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jeffrey Teckman
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, St Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
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9
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Pons M, Núñez A, Esquinas C, Torres-Durán M, Rodríguez-Hermosa JL, Calle M, Tubio-Pérez R, Belmonte I, Rodríguez-Frías F, Rodríguez E, Genescà J, Miravitlles M, Barrecheguren M. Utility of Transient Elastography for the Screening of Liver Disease in Patients with Alpha1-Antitrypsin Deficiency. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081724. [PMID: 33923569 PMCID: PMC8073267 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Screening of liver disease in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is usually carried out with liver enzymes, with low sensitivity. We conducted a multicenter cross-sectional study aiming to describe the utility of transient elastography for the identification of liver disease in patients with AATD. A total of 148 AATD patients were included. Among these, 54.7% were Pi*ZZ and 45.3% were heterozygous for the Z allele. Between 4.9% and 16.5% of patients had abnormal liver enzymes, without differences among genotypes. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) was significantly higher in Pi*ZZ individuals than in heterozygous Z (5.6 vs. 4.6 kPa; p = 0.001). In total, in 8 (5%) individuals LSM was >7.5 kPa, considered significant liver fibrosis, and ≥10 kPa in 3 (1.9%) all being Pi*ZZ. Elevated liver enzymes were more frequently observed in patients with LSM > 7.5 kPa, but in 5 out of 8 of these patients all liver enzymes were within normal range. In patients with AATD, the presence of abnormal liver enzymes is frequent; however, most of these patients do not present significant liver fibrosis. Transient elastography can help to identify patients with liver fibrosis even with normal liver enzymes and should be performed in all Z-allele carriers to screen for liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mònica Pons
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Alexa Núñez
- Pneumology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron/Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.); (C.E.); (I.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
- Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Esquinas
- Pneumology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron/Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.); (C.E.); (I.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
- Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Torres-Durán
- Pneumology Department, University Hospital Complex of Vigo, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica Galicia Sur, 36213 Vigo, Spain; (M.T.-D.); (R.T.-P.)
| | - Juan Luis Rodríguez-Hermosa
- Pneumology Department, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico de San Carlos, Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.L.R.-H.); (M.C.)
| | - Myriam Calle
- Pneumology Department, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico de San Carlos, Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.L.R.-H.); (M.C.)
| | - Ramón Tubio-Pérez
- Pneumology Department, University Hospital Complex of Vigo, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica Galicia Sur, 36213 Vigo, Spain; (M.T.-D.); (R.T.-P.)
| | - Irene Belmonte
- Pneumology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron/Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.); (C.E.); (I.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Francisco Rodríguez-Frías
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Rodríguez
- Pneumology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron/Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.); (C.E.); (I.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Joan Genescà
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.P.); (J.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marc Miravitlles
- Pneumology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron/Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.); (C.E.); (I.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
- Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Miriam Barrecheguren
- Pneumology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron/Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.); (C.E.); (I.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
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10
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Pye A, Khan S, Whitehouse T, Turner AM. Personalizing liver targeted treatments and transplantation for patients with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2021.1862648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Pye
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sheeba Khan
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS FT, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Alice M Turner
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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11
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Leao Filho H, de Oliveira CV, Horvat N. Other types of diffuse liver disease: is there a way to do it? Abdom Radiol (NY) 2020; 45:3425-3443. [PMID: 32306241 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-020-02530-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There are a variety of less common diffuse liver diseases that can be asymptomatic or cause severe liver dysfunction. For the majority of them, the association of clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings are needed to narrow the differential diagnosis. In this article, we will review and describe the rarer diffuse liver diseases including drug-related liver disease, inflammatory and infectious diseases, and deposition disorders such as amyloidosis, glycogen storage disease, Wilson's disease, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Abdominal radiologists should be familiar with the imaging features of different types of diffuse liver diseases to help the multidisciplinary team involved in the treatment of these patients. The data related to some of these conditions are scarce and sometimes experimental, but we want to demonstrate to the reader the value of imaging techniques in their analysis and introduce the potential of new imaging methods.
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12
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A Microbial Signature Identifies Advanced Fibrosis in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease Mainly Due to NAFLD. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2771. [PMID: 32066758 PMCID: PMC7026172 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59535-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of advanced fibrosis is an important measure of the severity of chronic liver disease. Prior works that have examined the gut microbiome as a novel biomarker for advanced fibrosis have only examined patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Therefore, our goal was to examine the gut microbiome across varying etiologies of liver disease to create a predictive model for liver fibrosis based upon a microbial signature. Stool samples were obtained from patients with chronic liver disease (n = 50) undergoing FibroScan (ultrasound elastography) at the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. Healthy control patients (n = 25) were also recruited as a reference population. Fecal samples underwent 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. Using differentially abundant microbes, a random forest classifier model was created to distinguish advanced fibrosis from mild/moderate fibrosis. The findings were then validated in a separate cohort of chronic liver disease patients (n = 37). Etiologies for liver disease included non-alcoholic liver disease (58.0%), hepatitis C (26.0%), hepatitis B (10.0%), and alcohol (6.0%). Microbiome composition was distinct in liver patients with advanced fibrosis compared to those with minimal fibrosis and healthy controls (p = 0.003). In multivariate negative binomial modeling, 26 bacterial taxa were differentially abundant in patients with advanced fibrosis as compared to those with minimal/moderate fibrosis (q-value < 0.05). A random forests classifier based on these taxa had an AUROC of 0.90 to predict advanced fibrosis. Prevotella copri, which was enriched in patients with advanced fibrosis, was the most strongly predictive microbe in the classifier. The classifier had an AUROC of 0.82 for advanced fibrosis in the validation cohort and Prevotella copri remained the strongest predictive microbe for advanced fibrosis. There is a distinct microbial signature for patients with advanced fibrosis independent of liver disease etiology and other comorbidities. These results suggest that microbial profiles can be used as a non-invasive marker for advanced fibrosis and support the hypothesis that microbes and their metabolites contribute to hepatic fibrosis.
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Chen VL, Chen Y, Du X, Handelman SK, Speliotes EK. Genetic variants that associate with cirrhosis have pleiotropic effects on human traits. Liver Int 2020; 40:405-415. [PMID: 31815349 PMCID: PMC7395656 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cirrhosis is characterized by extensive fibrosis of the liver and is a major cause of liver-related mortality. Cirrhosis is partially heritable but genetic contributions to cirrhosis have not been systemically explored. Here, we carry out association analyses with cirrhosis in two large biobanks and determine the effects of cirrhosis associated variants on multiple human disease/traits. METHODS We carried out a genome-wide association analysis of cirrhosis as a diagnosis in UK BioBank (UKBB; 1088 cases vs. 407 873 controls) and then tested top-associating loci for replication with cirrhosis in a hospital-based cohort from the Michigan Genomics Initiative (MGI; 875 cases of cirrhosis vs. 30 346 controls). For replicating variants or variants previously associated with cirrhosis that also affected cirrhosis in UKBB or MGI, we determined single nucleotide polymorphism effects on all other diagnoses in UKBB (PheWAS), common metabolic traits/diseases and serum/plasma metabolites. RESULTS Unbiased genome-wide association study identified variants in/near PNPLA3 and HFE, and candidate variant analysis identified variants in/near TM6SF2, MBOAT7, SERPINA1, HSD17B13, STAT4 and IFNL4 that reproducibly affected cirrhosis. Most affected liver enzyme concentrations and/or aspartate transaminase-to-platelet ratio index. PheWAS, metabolic trait and serum/plasma metabolite association analyses revealed effects of these variants on lipid, inflammatory and other processes including new effects on many human diseases and traits. CONCLUSIONS We identified eight loci that reproducibly associate with population-based cirrhosis and define their diverse effects on human diseases and traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent L. Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yanhua Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xiaomeng Du
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Samuel K. Handelman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Elizabeth K. Speliotes
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Hamesch K, Strnad P. Non-Invasive Assessment and Management of Liver Involvement in Adults With Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASES-JOURNAL OF THE COPD FOUNDATION 2020; 7:260-271. [PMID: 32697896 DOI: 10.15326/jcopdf.7.3.2019.0161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a systemic disorder affecting mainly the lung and the liver and is caused by mutations in SERPINA1, the AAT gene. A homozygous "Pi*Z" mutation (Pi*ZZ genotype) may cause liver fibrosis on its own independently of pulmonary AATD manifestation, while heterozygous Pi*Z carriage (Pi*MZ genotype) is considered a strong risk factor for development of liver cirrhosis in patients with concomitant liver disease such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver disease. In Pi*ZZ homozygotes, liver disease constitutes the second leading cause of death and is highly heterogeneous. About 35% of Pi*ZZ individuals display significant liver fibrosis on biopsy (i.e., fibrosis stage ≥ 2 on scale 0-4). Among non-invasive methods for liver fibrosis assessment, liver stiffness measurement (LSM) via vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) has been most widely evaluated. Based on these data, Pi*ZZ adults have 20x increased odds of developing advanced liver fibrosis (i.e., fibrosis stage ≥ 3) than adults without AAT mutation. Risk factors for accelerated fibrosis progression are male sex, age ≥ 50 years, alcohol misuse, obesity, diabetes mellitus, or metabolic syndrome. Unlike VCTE, other ultrasound- and magnetic resonance-based elastography methods have been assessed in small cohorts of Pi*ZZ individuals and remain to be comprehensively validated. Among blood-based fibrosis tests, AST-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) correlates moderately with histologic fibrosis stage and LSM. Given APRI's wide availability, it can be used for risk stratification as an adjunct to LSM or when LSM is not at hand. Despite recent efforts, AATD-related liver disease, especially for genotypes other than Pi*ZZ, remains greatly understudied. AATD individuals should be offered liver biochemistry, liver ultrasound, and non-invasive fibrosis assessment at the time of diagnosis to detect potential complications and for proper risk stratification. If signs of AATD-related liver disease occur (i.e., pathologic fibrosis test or repeatedly elevated liver enzymes), patients should be referred to a health care center specialized in AATD-related liver disease and be screened for potentially treatable comorbidities. To exclude the latter, they may need a liver biopsy. Moreover, every health care provider of an AATD individual should be aware of the potential liver manifestation, counsel their patient on modifiable hepatic risk factors, and offer them regular liver check-ups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Hamesch
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.,Coordinating Center for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency-Related Liver Disease of the European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER) and the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) Registry Group "Alpha-1 Liver"
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.,Coordinating Center for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency-Related Liver Disease of the European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER) and the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) Registry Group "Alpha-1 Liver"
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15
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Guillaud O, Dumortier J, Traclet J, Restier L, Joly P, Chapuis-Cellier C, Lachaux A, Mornex JF. Assessment of liver fibrosis by transient elastography (Fibroscan ®) in patients with A1AT deficiency. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2019; 43:77-81. [PMID: 30612958 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2018.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (A1ATD) is a common genetic condition which predisposes to emphysema and liver disorders. It is estimated that 10-15% of homozygous individuals for the Z allele (PiZZ) may develop liver fibrosis. The optimal modalities to detect liver disease in PiZZ adult patients need to be defined. The aim of this prospective study was to perform a systematic non-invasive evaluation of the liver fibrosis by elastometry using Fibroscan® in a cohort of A1ATD patients with emphysema. METHODS Patients followed in our respiratory unit were enrolled in this prospective study and underwent on the same day a physical examination, a biochemical profiling, an abdominal ultrasound (US) and a Fibroscan®. RESULTS Twenty-nine PiZZ adults (19 male) were included. Median age was 50.4 yrs (21.5-67.2). Median serum A1AT level was 0.20 g/L (0.15-0.33). Liver Function Tests (LFT) were not normal in 2 patients and US was abnormal in 6 patients. Two patients had both abdnormal LFT and US. Fibroscan® was technically feasible in 28/29 (97%) patients. Median liver stiffness was 4.5 kPa (2.8-32.8), and was > 7.2 kPa in 5/28 (18%) and > 14 kPa in 2/28 (7%) patients. Liver stiffness was increased in 2/2 (100%) patients with abnormal LFT and US, in 1/4 (25%) with abnormal LFT or US and in 2/22 (10%) patients with normal LFT and US. CONCLUSIONS Fibroscan® is an easy and repeatable tool which can be used in PiZZ patients to screen for the presence of significant liver fibrosis and to identify patients at higher risk to develop liver complications in the future and who may benefit from a closer surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Guillaud
- Service d'hépato-gastro-entérologie, hôpital Édouard-Herriot, hospices civils de Lyon, 69437 Lyon, France.
| | - Jérôme Dumortier
- Service d'hépato-gastro-entérologie, hôpital Édouard-Herriot, hospices civils de Lyon, 69437 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France.
| | - Julie Traclet
- Service de pneumologie, groupement hospitalier Est, hospices civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France.
| | - Lioara Restier
- Service de gastro-entérologie, hépatologie et nutrition pédiatriques, hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, hospices civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France.
| | - Philippe Joly
- Unité de pathologie moléculaire du globule rouge, laboratoire de biochimie et de biologie moléculaire, hôpital Édouard-Herriot, hospices civils de Lyon, 69437 Lyon, France.
| | - Colette Chapuis-Cellier
- Université Claude-Bernard Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France; Laboratoire d'immunologie, centre de biologie Sud, centre hospitalier Lyon-Sud, hospices civils, 69310 Pierre-Bénite, France.
| | - Alain Lachaux
- Université Claude-Bernard Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France; Service de gastro-entérologie, hépatologie et nutrition pédiatriques, hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, hospices civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France.
| | - Jean François Mornex
- Service de pneumologie, groupement hospitalier Est, hospices civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France; Université de Lyon, Inra, UMR754, 69007, Lyon, France.
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Hepatic-targeted RNA interference provides robust and persistent knockdown of alpha-1 antitrypsin levels in ZZ patients. J Hepatol 2018; 69:378-384. [PMID: 29572094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a genetic disorder causing pulmonary and liver disease. The PiZ mutation in AAT (SERPINA1) results in mis-folded AAT protein (Z-AAT) accumulating in hepatocytes, leading to fibrosis and cirrhosis. RNAi-based therapeutics silencing production of hepatic Z-AAT might benefit patients with AATD-associated liver disease. This study evaluated an RNAi therapeutic to silence production of AAT. METHODS Part A of this double-blind first-in-human study randomized 54 healthy volunteers (HVs) into single dose cohorts (two placebo: four active), receiving escalating doses of the investigational agent ARC-AAT from 0.38 to 8.0 mg/kg or placebo. Part B randomized 11 patients with PiZZ (homozygous for Z-AAT) genotype AATD, who received up to 4.0 mg/kg of ARC-AAT or placebo. Patients with baseline FibroScan® >11 kPa or forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) <60% were excluded. Assessments included safety, pharmacokinetics, and change in serum AAT concentrations. RESULTS A total of 36 HVs received ARC-AAT and 18 received placebo (part A). Seven PiZZ individuals received ARC-AAT and four received placebo (part B). A dose response in serum AAT reduction was observed at doses ≥4 mg/kg with similar relative reductions in PiZZ patients and HVs at 4 mg/kg and a maximum reduction of 76.1% (HVs) vs. 78.8% (PiZZ) at this dose. The time it took for serum AAT to return to baseline was similar for HV and PiZZ. There were no notable differences between HV and PiZZ safety parameters. The study was terminated early because of toxicity findings related to the delivery vehicle (ARC-EX1) seen in a non-human primate study. CONCLUSION PiZZ patients and HVs responded similarly to ARC-AAT. Deep and durable knockdown of hepatic AAT production based on observed reduction in serum AAT concentrations was demonstrated. LAY SUMMARY Accumulation of abnormal proteins in the livers of patients with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency may lead to decreased liver function and potentially liver failure. Therapeutics targeting the production of these abnormal proteins may be used to prevent or treat liver disease in patients with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02363946.
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Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a hallmark of chronic liver disease characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. Although liver biopsy is the reference standard for diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis, it has some limitations, including potential pain, sampling variability, and low patient acceptance. Hence, there has been an effort to develop noninvasive imaging techniques for diagnosis, staging, and monitoring of liver fibrosis. Many quantitative techniques have been implemented on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for this indication. The most widely validated technique is magnetic resonance elastography, which aims to measure viscoelastic properties of the liver and relate them to fibrosis stage. Several additional MRI methods have been developed or adapted to liver fibrosis quantification. Diffusion-weighted imaging measures the Brownian motion of water molecules which is restricted by collagen fibers. Texture analysis assesses the changes in the texture of liver parenchyma associated with fibrosis. Perfusion imaging relies on signal intensity and pharmacokinetic models to extract quantitative perfusion parameters. Hepatocellular function, which decreases with increasing fibrosis stage, can be estimated by the uptake of hepatobiliary contrast agents. Strain imaging measures liver deformation in response to physiological motion such as cardiac contraction. T1ρ quantification is an investigational technique, which measures the spin-lattice relaxation time in the rotating frame. This article will review the MRI techniques used in liver fibrosis staging, their advantages and limitations, and diagnostic performance. We will briefly discuss future directions, such as longitudinal monitoring of disease, prediction of portal hypertension, and risk stratification of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Reiter R, Wetzel M, Hamesch K, Strnad P, Asbach P, Haas M, Siegmund B, Trautwein C, Hamm B, Klatt D, Braun J, Sack I, Tzschätzsch H. Comparison of non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis in patients with alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency using magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) Quantification, and 2D-shear wave elastography (2D-SWE). PLoS One 2018; 13:e0196486. [PMID: 29698472 PMCID: PMC5919507 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Although it has been known for decades that patients with alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) have an increased risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, limited data exist on non-invasive imaging-based methods for assessing liver fibrosis such as magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) and acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) quantification, and no data exist on 2D-shear wave elastography (2D-SWE). Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the applicability of different elastography methods for the assessment of AATD-related liver fibrosis. METHODS Fifteen clinically asymptomatic AATD patients (11 homozygous PiZZ, 4 heterozygous PiMZ) and 16 matched healthy volunteers were examined using MRE and ARFI quantification. Additionally, patients were examined with 2D-SWE. RESULTS A high correlation is evident for the shear wave speed (SWS) determined with different elastography methods in AATD patients: 2D-SWE/MRE, ARFI quantification/2D-SWE, and ARFI quantification/MRE (R = 0.8587, 0.7425, and 0.6914, respectively; P≤0.0089). Four AATD patients with pathologically increased SWS were consistently identified with all three methods-MRE, ARFI quantification, and 2D-SWE. CONCLUSION The high correlation and consistent identification of patients with pathologically increased SWS using MRE, ARFI quantification, and 2D-SWE suggest that elastography has the potential to become a suitable imaging tool for the assessment of AATD-related liver fibrosis. These promising results provide motivation for further investigation of non-invasive assessment of AATD-related liver fibrosis using elastography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolf Reiter
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Richard and Loan Hill Department of Bioengineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Martin Wetzel
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology, Infectiology, and Rheumatology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Karim Hamesch
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases, and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Coordinating center for alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency-related liver disease of the European Reference Network (ERN) “Rare Liver” and the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) registry group “Alpha1-Liver”, Aachen, Germany
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases, and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Coordinating center for alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency-related liver disease of the European Reference Network (ERN) “Rare Liver” and the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) registry group “Alpha1-Liver”, Aachen, Germany
| | - Patrick Asbach
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Haas
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Britta Siegmund
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology, Infectiology, and Rheumatology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Trautwein
- Medical Clinic III, Gastroenterology, Metabolic Diseases, and Intensive Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Coordinating center for alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency-related liver disease of the European Reference Network (ERN) “Rare Liver” and the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) registry group “Alpha1-Liver”, Aachen, Germany
| | - Bernd Hamm
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dieter Klatt
- Richard and Loan Hill Department of Bioengineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Jürgen Braun
- Institute of Medical Informatics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ingolf Sack
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Heiko Tzschätzsch
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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Diaz S, Mostafavi B, Tanash HA, Piitulainen E. Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography in a cohort of alpha-1 antitrypsin-deficient individuals and healthy volunteers. Acta Radiol Open 2018; 7:2058460118768363. [PMID: 29770228 PMCID: PMC5946635 DOI: 10.1177/2058460118768363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography has been used to assess liver stiffness non-invasively. However, its usefulness in alpha-1 antitripsin-deficient (AATD) individuals is unknown. Purpose To assess if liver fibrosis is present in a cohort of AATD individuals using ARFI elastography. Material and Methods Eighty-three participants aged 38–39 years, except for two who were aged 40 years, underwent ultrasound elastography of the liver with ARFI technique. Twenty-nine were homozygote ZZ genotype, PiZZ (14 men, 15 women); 12 were SZ genotype, Pi SZ (8 men, 4 women), and 42 were healthy volunteers, PiMM (16 men, 26 women). Three specific liver anatomical regions were examined: segments 2/3 (left lobe) in the subcostal plane, and 5/6 and 7/8 (right lobe) in the intercostal space. In each region, three measurements were registered. Results There was no statistically significant difference between ARFI-median in the AATD group and the control group (P value = 0.877) and neither between AATD groups (PiZZ and PiSZ) with a P value = 0.259. The ARFI-median was lower in the right liver lobe than in the left lobe in all groups and the difference between both lobes was statistically significant (P = 0.001). No statistically significant difference was found in ARFI-median of the right liver lobe between the AATD group and the control group (P = 0.759), nor between the AATD group (P = 0.384). No gender difference was found in ARFI-median. Conclusions ARFI values in AATD individuals aged 38–39 years showed no difference compare to healthy participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Diaz
- Department of Clinical Radiology Malmö, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Behrouz Mostafavi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology Malmö, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Hanan A Tanash
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology Malmö, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Eeva Piitulainen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology Malmö, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Sweden
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20
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Tada T, Kumada T, Toyoda H, Sone Y, Takeshima K, Ogawa S, Goto T, Wakahata A, Nakashima M, Nakamuta M, Tanaka J. Viral eradication reduces both liver stiffness and steatosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection who received direct-acting anti-viral therapy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2018; 47:1012-1022. [PMID: 29424449 DOI: 10.1111/apt.14554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether direct-acting anti-viral therapy can reduce liver fibrosis and steatosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is unclear. AIMS To evaluate changes in liver stiffness and steatosis in patients with HCV who received direct-acting anti-viral therapy and achieved sustained virological response (SVR). METHODS A total of 198 patients infected with HCV genotype 1 or 2 who achieved SVR after direct-acting anti-viral therapy were analysed. Liver stiffness as evaluated by magnetic resonance elastography, steatosis as evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging-determined proton density fat fraction (PDFF), insulin resistance, and laboratory data were assessed before treatment (baseline) and at 24 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR24). RESULTS Alanine aminotransferase and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance levels decreased significantly from baseline to SVR24. Conversely, platelet count, which is inversely associated with liver fibrosis, increased significantly from baseline to SVR24. In patients with high triglyceride levels (≥150 mg/dL), triglyceride levels significantly decreased from baseline to SVR24 (P = 0.004). The median (interquartile range) liver stiffness values at baseline and SVR24 were 3.10 (2.70-4.18) kPa and 2.80 (2.40-3.77) kPa respectively (P < 0.001). The PDFF values at baseline and SVR 24 were 2.4 (1.7-3.4)% and 1.9 (1.3-2.8)% respectively (P < 0.001). In addition, 68% (19/28) of patients with fatty liver at baseline (PDFF ≥5.2%; n = 28) no longer had fatty liver (PDFF <5.2%) at SVR24. CONCLUSION Viral eradication reduces both liver stiffness and steatosis in patients with chronic HCV who received direct-acting anti-viral therapy (UMIN000017020).
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Affiliation(s)
- T Tada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - T Kumada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - H Toyoda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - Y Sone
- Department of Radiology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - K Takeshima
- Department of Imaging Diagnosis, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - S Ogawa
- Department of Imaging Diagnosis, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - T Goto
- Department of Imaging Diagnosis, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - A Wakahata
- Department of Imaging Diagnosis, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - M Nakashima
- Department of Pharmacy, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Gifu, Japan
| | - M Nakamuta
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kyushu Medical Center, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - J Tanaka
- Department of Epidemiology, Infectious Disease Control, and Prevention, Hiroshima University Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
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21
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Serai SD, Naidu AP, Andrew Burrow T, Prada CE, Xanthakos S, Towbin AJ. Correlating liver stiffness with disease severity scoring system (DS3) values in Gaucher disease type 1 (GD1) patients. Mol Genet Metab 2018; 123:357-363. [PMID: 29361370 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Gaucher disease (GD) is an autosomal-recessive lysosomal storage disease caused by a deficiency of the enzyme, glucocerebrocidase, resulting in accumulation of lipid-laden storage cells in multiple organs such as bone marrow, liver, spleen, and lungs. Type 1 Gaucher disease is the most common form of this condition in which the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) are not affected. The Gaucher disease severity scoring system (GD-DS3) is typically used to assess disease severity accounting for skeletal, hematologic, and visceral disease. In addition to being time consuming for the clinician to calculate the scores, some of the assessments are subjective and may falsely increase or decrease disease severity. The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between liver stiffness values obtained from MR elastography (MRE) and the GD-DS3 score. An IRB approved, HIPAA compliant retrospective study was performed. All patients with type 1 GD imaged with MRE between 2011 and 2016 were included in this study. Clinical and imaging data was collected. Two pediatric radiologists analyzed MR images from abdomen and thigh studies independently to determine bone marrow involvement using a semi-quantitative scoring system with one reviewer analyzing a subset of studies to determine inter-observer reliability. The collected data was used to calculate a GD-DS3 score for all patients. GD-DS3 scores were compared with liver MRE stiffness values. Clinical MRE scores were plotted against GD-DS3 severity scores for 31 patients (15 males, 16 females; median age 27years, age range: 4-67years). The median GD-DS3 score was 4 (range: 1-10.1) and median MRE value was 2.43kPa (range: 1.30-5.20kPa). A significant positive correlation was found between MRE and GD-DS3 scores; Pearson's correlation coefficient value of r=0.47, p<0.001 for all scores, r=0.68, p<0.001 for complete scores and r=0.46, p<0.07 for incomplete scores. The inter-observer variation of bone marrow burden showed only fair agreement with a Kappa coefficient of 0.26. There is a significant positive correlation between increasing liver stiffness and increasing composite GD-DS3 scores. This supports the use of MRE, a non-invasive reproducible quantitative test, as both an additional assessment and independent marker for monitoring disease severity and progression in GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraj D Serai
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Anjani P Naidu
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - T Andrew Burrow
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Section of Genetics and Metabolism, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Carlos E Prada
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Stavra Xanthakos
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Alexander J Towbin
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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22
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Mandorfer M, Bucsics T, Hutya V, Schmid-Scherzer K, Schaefer B, Zoller H, Ferlitsch A, Peck-Radosavljevic M, Trauner M, Ferenci P, Kneussl M, Reiberger T. Liver disease in adults with α1-antitrypsin deficiency. United European Gastroenterol J 2018; 6:710-718. [PMID: 30083333 DOI: 10.1177/2050640618764057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The natural history of adult liver disease due to α1-antitrypsin deficiency (A1AD) remains poorly understood. Objective We investigated whether heterozygosity for the Z-allele predisposes for the development of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). Moreover, we aimed to non-invasively assess the prevalence of liver fibrosis and hepatic steatosis in adults with A1AD treated by pulmonologists. Methods SERPINA1 rs28929474 (Z-allele) was genotyped in 315 patients with CSPH (hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥10 mmHg; cases) and 248 liver donors (controls). In addition, 31 adults with A1AD (Pi*ZZ/Pi*SZ) and 11 first-degree relatives (Pi*MZ/Pi*MS) underwent liver stiffness and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) measurement. Results Heterozygosity for the Z-allele was observed in 6.7% of patients with CSPH and 2.8% of liver donors. Thus, harboring the Z-allele was associated with increased odds of CSPH (odds ratio: 2.47; 95% confidence interval: 1.03-5.9; P = 0.042). Among Pi*ZZ/Pi*SZ patients, 23%/3% had liver stiffness values indicative of liver fibrosis ( ≥F2/ ≥F3). Interestingly, 65%/52% of Pi*ZZ/Pi*SZ patients had CAP values indicative of hepatic steatosis ( ≥S1/ ≥S2). Conclusions Heterozygosity for the Z-allele predisposes for the development of CSPH, confirming its role as a genetic (co)factor in liver disease. Pi*ZZ/SZ patients rarely develop liver fibrosis ≥F3 during adulthood; however, liver fibrosis ≥F2 is common. Elevated CAP values hint at underlying hepatic steatosis, which might promote liver fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattias Mandorfer
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Theresa Bucsics
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Veronika Hutya
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Internal Medicine II and Pulmonology, Wilhelminenspital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Karin Schmid-Scherzer
- Department of Internal Medicine II and Pulmonology, Wilhelminenspital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Benedikt Schaefer
- Department of Medicine I (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology), Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Heinz Zoller
- Department of Medicine I (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology), Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Arnulf Ferlitsch
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Peck-Radosavljevic
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Endocrinology, and Nephrology, Klinikum Klagenfurt am Woerthersee, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Michael Trauner
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Ferenci
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Meinhard Kneussl
- Department of Internal Medicine II and Pulmonology, Wilhelminenspital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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23
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Hoy AM, Fallowfield JA. Editorial: non-invasive assessment of hepatic fibrosis in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency using magnetic resonance elastography. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:644-5. [PMID: 27511134 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A M Hoy
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - J A Fallowfield
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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24
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Kim RG, Loomba R. Editorial: non-invasive assessment of hepatic fibrosis in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency using magnetic resonance elastography - authors' reply. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:645-6. [PMID: 27511135 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R G Kim
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - R Loomba
- Department of Medicine, NAFLD Research Center, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA. .,Division of Epidemiology, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA. .,Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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