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Kouroumalis E, Tsomidis I, Voumvouraki A. Iron as a therapeutic target in chronic liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:616-655. [PMID: 36742167 PMCID: PMC9896614 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i4.616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
It was clearly realized more than 50 years ago that iron deposition in the liver may be a critical factor in the development and progression of liver disease. The recent clarification of ferroptosis as a specific form of regulated hepatocyte death different from apoptosis and the description of ferritinophagy as a specific variation of autophagy prompted detailed investigations on the association of iron and the liver. In this review, we will present a brief discussion of iron absorption and handling by the liver with emphasis on the role of liver macrophages and the significance of the iron regulators hepcidin, transferrin, and ferritin in iron homeostasis. The regulation of ferroptosis by endogenous and exogenous mod-ulators will be examined. Furthermore, the involvement of iron and ferroptosis in various liver diseases including alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver disease, chronic hepatitis B and C, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) will be analyzed. Finally, experimental and clinical results following interventions to reduce iron deposition and the promising manipulation of ferroptosis will be presented. Most liver diseases will be benefited by ferroptosis inhibition using exogenous inhibitors with the notable exception of HCC, where induction of ferroptosis is the desired effect. Current evidence mostly stems from in vitro and in vivo experimental studies and the need for well-designed future clinical trials is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Kouroumalis
- Liver Research Laboratory, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Ioannis Tsomidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki 54621, Greece
| | - Argyro Voumvouraki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki 54621, Greece
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Hsu CC, Senussi NH, Fertrin KY, Kowdley KV. Iron overload disorders. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:1842-1854. [PMID: 35699322 PMCID: PMC9315134 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Iron overload disorders represent a variety of conditions that lead to increased total body iron stores and resultant end-organ damage. An elevated ferritin and transferrin-iron saturation can be commonly encountered in the evaluation of elevated liver enzymes. Confirmatory homeostatic iron regulator (HFE) genetic testing for C282Y and H63D, mutations most encountered in hereditary hemochromatosis, should be pursued in evaluation of hyperferritinemia. Magnetic resonance imaging with quantitative assessment of iron content or liver biopsy (especially if liver disease is a cause of iron overload) should be used as appropriate. A secondary cause for iron overload should be considered if HFE genetic testing is negative for the C282Y homozygous or C282Y/H63D compound heterozygous mutations. Differential diagnosis of secondary iron overload includes hematologic disorders, iatrogenic causes, or chronic liver diseases. More common hematologic disorders include thalassemia syndromes, myelodysplastic syndrome, myelofibrosis, sideroblastic anemias, sickle cell disease, or pyruvate kinase deficiency. If iron overload has been excluded, evaluation for causes of hyperferritinemia should be pursued. Causes of hyperferritinemia include chronic liver disease, malignancy, infections, kidney failure, and rheumatic conditions, such as adult-onset Still's disease or hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. In this review, we describe the diagnostic testing of patients with suspected hereditary hemochromatosis, the evaluation of patients with elevated serum ferritin levels, and signs of secondary overload and treatment options for those with secondary iron overload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine C Hsu
- Medstar Georgetown University HospitalMedstar Georgetown Transplant InstituteWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Nizar H Senussi
- Gastroenterology and HepatologyUniversity of New MexicoAlbuquerqueNew MexicoUSA
| | - Kleber Y Fertrin
- Division of HematologyDepartment of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonWashingtonUSA
| | - Kris V Kowdley
- Liver Institute Northwest and Elson S. Floyd College of MedicineWashington State UniversityWashingtonUSA
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Kouroumalis E, Voumvouraki A. Hepatitis C virus: A critical approach to who really needs treatment. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1-44. [PMID: 35126838 PMCID: PMC8790391 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction of effective drugs in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has prompted the World Health Organization to declare a global eradication target by 2030. Propositions have been made to screen the general population and treat all HCV carriers irrespective of the disease status. A year ago the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus appeared causing a worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 disease. Huge financial resources were redirected, and the pandemic became the first priority in every country. In this review, we examined the feasibility of the World Health Organization elimination program and the actual natural course of HCV infection. We also identified and analyzed certain comorbidity factors that may aggravate the progress of HCV and some marginalized subpopulations with characteristics favoring HCV dissemination. Alcohol consumption, HIV coinfection and the presence of components of metabolic syndrome including obesity, hyperuricemia and overt diabetes were comorbidities mostly responsible for increased liver-related morbidity and mortality of HCV. We also examined the significance of special subpopulations like people who inject drugs and males having sex with males. Finally, we proposed a different micro-elimination screening and treatment program that can be implemented in all countries irrespective of income. We suggest that screening and treatment of HCV carriers should be limited only in these particular groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Kouroumalis
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71500, Crete, Greece
| | - Argyro Voumvouraki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki 54621, Greece
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Danilenko NG, Siniauskaya MG, Lukashyk SP, Karpov IA, Davydenko OG. “Double Punch”: Hepatitis C in Patients with Genetic Defects of Iron Metabolism. CYTOL GENET+ 2019. [DOI: 10.3103/s0095452719050062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Kim P, Weiskirchen S, Uerlings R, Kueppers A, Stellmacher F, Viveiros A, Zoller H, Weiskirchen R. Quantification of liver iron overload disease with laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. BMC Med Imaging 2018; 18:51. [PMID: 30514216 PMCID: PMC6278171 DOI: 10.1186/s12880-018-0291-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary hemochromatosis is the most frequent, identified, genetic disorder in Caucasians affecting about 1 in 1000 people of Northern European ancestry, where the associated genetic defect (homozygosity for the p.Cys282Tyr polymorphism in the HFE gene) has a prevalence of approximately 1:200. The disorder is characterized by excess iron stores in the body. Due to the incomplete disease penetrance of disease-associated genotype, genetic testing and accurate quantification of hepatic iron content by histological grading of stainable iron, quantitative chemical determination of iron, or imaging procedures are important in the evaluation and staging of hereditary hemochromatosis. METHODS We here established novel laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry protocols for hepatic metal bio-imaging for diagnosis of iron overload. RESULTS We demonstrate that these protocols are a significant asset in the diagnosis of iron overload allowing iron measurements and simultaneous determination of various other metals and metalloids with high sensitivity, spatial resolution, and quantification ability. CONCLUSIONS The simultaneous measurement of various metals and metalloids offers unique opportunities for deeper understanding of metal imbalances. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a highly powerful and sensitive technique for the analysis of a variety of solid samples with high spatial resolution. We conclude that this method is an important add-on to routine diagnosis of iron overload and associated hepatic metal dysbalances resulting thereof.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Kim
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Pauwelsstr 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Sabine Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Pauwelsstr 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Ricarda Uerlings
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Pauwelsstr 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Astrid Kueppers
- Central Institute for Engineering, Electronics and Analytics, ZEA-3, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | | | - André Viveiros
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Heinz Zoller
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Pauwelsstr 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
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St. John TM. Chronic Hepatitis. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-35868-2.00021-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Asimakopoulou A, Weiskirchen S, Weiskirchen R. Pathogenesis, Diagnostics, and Treatment of Hereditary Haemochromatosis: A 150 Year-Long Understanding of an Iron Overload Disorder. EUROPEAN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2017. [DOI: 10.33590/emj/10310080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Haemochromatosis is an iron overload disorder that can be inherited or acquired and when diagnosis is delayed, disease progression and death can occur. Iron overload was first described by the French internist Armand Trousseau in 1865 in an article on diabetes in which alterations in skin pigmentations were reported. Some years later, the German pathologist Friedrich Daniel von Recklinghausen coined the term ‘haemochromatosis’ for a metabolic disorder characterised by excess deposition of iron in the tissue. This disorder affects 1 in 200 subjects of Caucasians of Northern European descent. The systemic excess iron build-up condition quickly gained an intense clinical interest. Haemochromatosis can lead to severe pathological symptoms in multiple organs, including the liver, bones, spleen, heart, pancreas, joints, and reproductive organs. With the progress of the disease, hepatic damage predominates. Polymorphisms in several independent genes can lead to haemochromatosis. However, the most widely known haemochromatosis-associated and studied ones are genetic variants in the HFE gene, located on the short arm of human chromosome 6. Early detection and phlebotomy prior to the onset of fibrosis/cirrhosis can reduce morbidity and normalise life expectancy. Consequently, phlebotomy has been accepted for decades as a standard treatment for the reduction of iron load. Nowadays, other methods, such as erythrocytapheresis, therapeutic application of iron chelators and proton pump inhibitors, or hepcidin-targeted therapy, are discussed as alternative personalised treatments of hereditary haemochromatosis. This review focusses on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of haemochromatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Asimakopoulou
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sabine Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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The effect of the hemochromatosis (HFE) genotype on lead load and iron metabolism among lead smelter workers. PLoS One 2014; 9:e101537. [PMID: 24988074 PMCID: PMC4079697 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0101537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2014] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Both an excess of toxic lead (Pb) and an essential iron disorder have been implicated in many diseases and public health problems. Iron metabolism genes, such as the hemochromatosis (HFE) gene, have been reported to be modifiers for lead absorption and storage. However, the HFE gene studies among the Asian population with occupationally high lead exposure are lacking. Objectives To explore the modifying effects of the HFE genotype (wild-type, H63D variant and C282Y variant) on the Pb load and iron metabolism among Asian Pb-workers with high occupational exposure. Methods Seven hundred and seventy-one employees from a lead smelter manufacturing company were tested to determine their Pb intoxication parameters, iron metabolic indexes and identify the HFE genotype. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results Forty-five H63D variant carriers and no C282Y variant carrier were found among the 771 subjects. Compared with subjects with the wild-type genotype, H63D variant carriers had higher blood lead levels, even after controlling for factors such as age, sex, marriage, education, smoking and lead exposure levels. Multivariate analyses also showed that the H63D genotype modifies the associations between the blood lead levels and the body iron burden/transferrin. Conclusions No C282Y variant was found in this Asian population. The H63D genotype modified the association between the lead and iron metabolism such that increased blood lead is associated with a higher body iron content or a lower transferrin in the H63D variant. It is indicated that H63D variant carriers may be a potentially highly vulnerable sub-population if they are exposed to high lead levels occupationally.
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Carreño V. Review article: management of chronic hepatitis C in patients with contraindications to anti-viral therapy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 39:148-62. [PMID: 24279580 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are patients with chronic hepatitis C who are not eligible for the current interferon-based therapies or refuse to be treated due to secondary effects. AIM To provide information on alternative treatments for the management of these patients. METHODS A PubMed search was performed to identify relevant literature. Search terms included hepatitis C virus, anti-inflammatory treatment, antioxidant, natural products and alternative treatment, alone or in combination. Additional publications were identified using the references cited by primary and review articles. RESULTS Several approaches, such as iron depletion (phlebotomy), treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid or glycyrrhizin, have anti-inflammatory and/or anti-fibrotic effects. Life interventions like weight loss, exercise and coffee consumption are associated with a biochemical improvement. Other alternatives (ribavirin monotherapy, amantadine, silibinin, vitamin supplementation, etc.) do not have any beneficial effect or need to be tested in larger clinical studies. CONCLUSION There are therapeutic strategies and lifestyle interventions that can be used to improve liver damage in patients with chronic hepatitis C who cannot receive or refuse interferon-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Carreño
- Fundación Estudio Hepatitis Virales, Madrid, Spain
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Motawi TK, Shaker OG, Ismail MF, Sayed NH. Genetic variants associated with the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma in hepatitis C Egyptian patients. Gene 2013; 527:516-20. [PMID: 23845776 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.06.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) associated to infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) has become the fastest-rising cause of cancer-related deaths. Genetic variations may play an important role in the development of HCC in HCV patients. Ghrelin exerts anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic and hepatoprotective effects on chronically injured hepatic tissues. Ghrelin gene shows several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) including -604G/A, Arg51Gln, and Leu72Met. Hemochromatosis gene (HFE) mutations namely C282Y and H63D may cause hepatic iron overload, thus increasing the risk of HCC in HCV patients. AIM To investigate the association of progression of HCC with ghrelin and HFE gene polymorphisms in HCV Egyptian patients. METHODS Seventy-nine chronic HCV patients (thirty-nine developed HCC and forty did not), and forty healthy control subjects were included in the study. The polymorphisms were evaluated by PCR/RFLP analysis, and related protein levels were measured by either ELISA or colorimetric assays. RESULTS The three tested SNPs on ghrelin gene were detected in the studied groups, only one SNP (Arg51Gln) showed significantly higher GA, AA genotypes and A allele frequencies in hepatitis C patients who developed HCC than in hepatitis C patients without HCC and controls. Of the two mutations studied on HFE gene only H63D heterozygous allele was detected, and its frequency did not statistically differ among studied groups. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that A allele at position 346 of the ghrelin gene is associated with susceptibility to HCC in hepatitis C patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Kamal Motawi
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Sini M, Sorbello O, Civolani A, Demelia L. Hemochromatosis gene mutations: prevalence and effects on pegylated-interferon and ribavirin therapy response in chronic hepatitis C in sardinia. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2012; 2:211-7. [PMID: 25755436 PMCID: PMC3940629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2012.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 06/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Considerable evidence suggests that iron could be a comorbid factor for liver injury in chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Elevated iron indices are frequently described in CHC and may impact negatively on the course of liver disease and on the response to interferon alfa therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of hemochromatosis gene mutations in Sardinian CHC patients, the association with iron overload and the impact on response to therapy. METHODS Sixty-nine CHC patients were enrolled. Iron indices, hepatic and viral parameters were detected. C282Y, H63D and S65C mutations were identified through a PCR. Liver biopsy was performed for hepatic fibrosis evaluation. All patients were treated for 6 months (viral genotype 2/3) or 12 months (viral genotype 1/4) with pegylated-interferon 180 mcg once weekly and ribavirin 1000-1200 mg/daily. Sustained virological response (SVR) was defined as undetectable HCV RNA 24 weeks after the end of treatment. RESULTS HFE gene mutation was detected in 29 patients (42%). The presence of HFE mutations was significantly associated with elevated transferrin saturation (P < 0.01). Hepatic fibrosis was more advanced in HFE mutation carriers (χ (2), P = 0.04). Among mutation carriers 27.5% achieved responses at the end of treatment compared with 60% of non-carriers (P = 0.005). Patients with HFE wildtype produced significant SVR compared with patients with HFE mutations (P = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS The literature shows discordant results about the prevalence, hepatic distribution and possible therapeutic implications of iron overload in chronic hepatitis C. Our findings shows that HFE gene mutations could favor, synergically with CHC and other genetic or acquired factors, the development of liver damage and could influence the outcome of interferon treatment with higher rate of non-response.
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Key Words
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AP, alkaline phosphatase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- CHC, Chronic hepatitis C
- ETR, End of treatment response
- GGT, g-glutamyl transpeptidase
- HCV, Hepatitis virus C infection determination
- HFE gene
- HFE, Human hemochromatosis protein
- HH, Hereditary Hemochromatosis
- SVR, Sustained virologic response
- TSI, Transferin saturation index
- ULN, Upper normal limit
- WT, wildtype
- iron overload
- viral hepatitis
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Orazio Sorbello
- Address for correspondence: Orazio Sorbello, Department of Gastroenterology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, SS 554 bivio per Sestu, 09130 Cagliari, Italy. Tel./fax: +39 070 51096100.
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Ishizu Y, Katano Y, Honda T, Hayashi K, Ishigami M, Itoh A, Hirooka Y, Nakano I, Goto H. Clinical impact of HFE mutations in Japanese patients with chronic hepatitis C. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 27:1112-6. [PMID: 22098610 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2011.06976.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM HFE mutations, a common cause of hereditary hemochromatosis (HH), are reportedly associated with hepatic iron overload, severe liver fibrosis, and good response to interferon treatment in European patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). HH shows ethnicity-based differences and little is known about the effects of HH mutations on CHC in the Japanese. Thus, the aim of this study was to clarify the clinical influence of HFE mutations in Japanese CHC patients. METHODS In a total of 251 patients with CHC, we analyzed the frequencies of H63D and S65C mutations in the HFE gene, and the influence of these mutations on clinical parameters and response to pegylated-interferon-alpha 2b (PEG-IFN) plus ribavirin therapy. RESULTS Fourteen patients (5.6%) carried the H63D mutation; all were heterozygotes. No S65C mutations were found. Only hemoglobin levels in the H63D heterozygotes were higher than in wild-type patients. Eleven of 14 H63D heterozygotes achieved sustained virological response (SVR). On univariate analysis, factors associated with SVR were interleukin 28B (IL28B) polymorphism, age, hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype, HCV viral load, white blood cell count, stage of fibrosis and H63D mutation. All patients with both TT genotype in IL28B (rs8099917) and H63D mutation in HFE (n = 10) achieved SVR. CONCLUSIONS The H63D mutation has little impact on the clinical characteristics of CHC, but is related to favorable response to PEG-IFN plus ribavirin therapy, particularly in patients with the TT allele in IL28B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoji Ishizu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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Chronic Hepatitis. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4377-1793-8.00019-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Frequency of Two Common HFE Gene Mutations (C282Y and H63D) in a Group of Iranian Patients With Cryptogenic Cirrhosis. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2011. [DOI: 10.5812/kowsar.1735143x.3749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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Krawczyk M, Grünhage F, Zimmer V, Lammert F. Variant adiponutrin (PNPLA3) represents a common fibrosis risk gene: non-invasive elastography-based study in chronic liver disease. J Hepatol 2011; 55:299-306. [PMID: 21168459 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2010.10.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2010] [Revised: 10/17/2010] [Accepted: 10/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Recent genome-wide association studies have identified the variant p.I148M of the adiponutrin gene PNPLA3 as a risk factor for developing severe forms of non-alcoholic and alcoholic liver diseases. The risk allele confers an increased risk for fatty liver disease and elevated serum aminotransferase activities reflecting liver injury. In the current elastography-based study, we investigate variant adiponutrin as genetic determinant of liver fibrosis, the hallmark of all chronic liver diseases. METHODS In this observational cross-sectional study, we staged 899 patients with different chronic liver diseases non-invasively by transient elastography (Fibroscan) and genotyped them for variant adiponutrin (rs738409) by PCR-based assays. A subgroup of 229 patients consented to percutaneous liver biopsy, validating the accuracy of elastography in staging fibrosis (ρ=0.743, p<0.01). RESULTS Carriers of distinct p.I148M adiponutrin genotypes display significant (p=0.017) differences in liver stiffness determined by elastography. In particular, individuals carrying the allele [G] are at higher risk of developing liver cirrhosis defined by stiffness values ≥13.0kPa (OR=1.56, p=0.005). Of note, the PNPLA3 risk variant advances fibrosis in the total cohort as well as in the subgroups of patients with viral hepatitis and non-viral liver diseases and contributes 16% of the total cirrhosis risk. CONCLUSIONS The adiponutrin risk variant is a common genetic determinant of progressive liver fibrosis. Our results underpin non-invasive follow-up for individuals with chronic liver disease at-risk for developing advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Krawczyk
- Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany
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Rashed MN. The role of trace elements on hepatitis virus infections: a review. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2011; 25:181-7. [PMID: 21880473 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2011.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2011] [Revised: 05/23/2011] [Accepted: 07/07/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The significance of the nutritional roles of trace metals (includes some heavy metals) is widely recognized, since these elements are as constituent components of many metal proteins and metalloenzymes serum trace metals levels, and their ratios are frequently reported to be good marker for diagnosing various diseases. Trace metals play an important role in liver disease particularly liver degeneration. Influence of trace elements has been studied in a large number of viruses belonging to different groups. This review reported the role of some trace elements iron (Fe), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) as well as toxic elements Pb on hepatitis virus infections.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased liver iron stores may contribute to the progression of liver injury and fibrosis, and are associated with a higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma development. Pre-transplant symptoms of iron overload in patients with liver cirrhosis are associated with higher risk of infectious and malignant complications in liver transplant recipients. HFE gene mutations may be involved in the pathogenesis of liver iron overload and influence the progression of chronic liver diseases of different origins. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of iron overload in relation to HFE gene mutations among Polish patients with liver cirrhosis. METHODS Sixty-one patients with liver cirrhosis included in the study were compared with a control group of 42 consecutive patients subjected to liver biopsy because of chronic liver diseases. Liver function tests and serum iron markers were assessed in both groups. All patients were screened for HFE mutations (C282Y, H63D, S65C). Thirty-six of 61 patients from the study group and all controls had liver biopsy performed with semiquantitative assessment of iron deposits in hepatocytes. RESULTS The biochemical markers of iron overload and iron deposits in the liver were detected with a higher frequency (70% and 47% respectively) in patients with liver cirrhosis. There were no differences in the prevalence of all HFE mutations in both groups. In patients with a diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma, no significant associations with iron disorders and HFE gene mutations were found. CONCLUSIONS Iron disorders were detected in patients with liver cirrhosis frequently but without significant association with HFE gene mutations. Only the homozygous C282Y mutation seems to occur more frequently in the selected population of patients with liver cirrhosis. As elevated biochemical iron indices accompanied liver iron deposits more frequently in liver cirrhosis compared to controls with chronic liver disease, there is a need for more extensive studies searching for the possible influence of non-HFE iron homeostasis regulators and their modulation on the course of chronic liver disease and liver cirrhosis.
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Lam M, Torbenson M, Yeh MM, Vivekanandan P, Ferrell L. HFE mutations in alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency: an examination of cirrhotic explants. Mod Pathol 2010; 23:637-43. [PMID: 20208481 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2010.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Increased iron deposition is often seen in liver explants with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency, but it remains unclear if this is a nonspecific effect of end-stage liver disease or if individuals with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency and excess iron are at increased risk for HFE mutations. To further examine this question, 45 liver explants with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency and 33 control livers with chronic hepatitis C were examined for histological iron accumulation, graded on a scale of 0 to 4+, and HFE mutations. Interestingly, the alpha-1-antitrypsin cirrhotic livers showed a bimodal distribution of iron accumulation, with peaks at grades 1 and 3. In contrast, hepatitis C cirrhotic livers showed a unimodal distribution with a peak at grade 2. HFE mutations in livers with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency were as follows: C282Y=2%, H63D=42%. H63D mutations were more frequent in alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency cases than in controls (42 vs 27%), but was not statistically significant, P=0.17. However, there was a significant association with HFE mutations in alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency livers with grade 3+ or 4+ iron, P=0.02. In contrast, livers with hepatitis C showed a similar frequency of HFE mutations as the general population: C282Y=15%, H63D=27%. A rare S65C mutation and a novel A271S mutation were also found in this study; the latter patient had 4+ iron in the liver and later developed heart failure with cardiac iron. In conclusion, total H63D mutations were high (42%) in cirrhotics with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency and there was a significant association between HFE mutations and high levels of iron accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Lam
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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The role of iron in the pathophysiology and treatment of chronic hepatitis C. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2010; 23:822-8. [PMID: 20011735 DOI: 10.1155/2009/290383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increased hepatic iron content may be observed in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection, and may contribute to disease severity. The presence of hemochromatosis gene mutations is associated with increased hepatic iron accumulation and may lead to accelerated disease progression. Hepatic iron depletion has been postulated to decrease the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis due to chronic hepatitis C. It is possible that iron depletion stabilizes or improves liver histology and slows disease progression in these individuals. The present article reviews the prevalence and risk factors for hepatic iron overload in chronic hepatitis C, with emphasis on the available data regarding the efficacy of iron depletion in the treatment of this common liver disease.
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Price L, Kowdley KV. The role of iron in the pathophysiology and treatment of chronic hepatitis C. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2010; 29:1141-4. [PMID: 20011735 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gft467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Increased hepatic iron content may be observed in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection, and may contribute to disease severity. The presence of hemochromatosis gene mutations is associated with increased hepatic iron accumulation and may lead to accelerated disease progression. Hepatic iron depletion has been postulated to decrease the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis due to chronic hepatitis C. It is possible that iron depletion stabilizes or improves liver histology and slows disease progression in these individuals. The present article reviews the prevalence and risk factors for hepatic iron overload in chronic hepatitis C, with emphasis on the available data regarding the efficacy of iron depletion in the treatment of this common liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Price
- Center for Liver Disease, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington 98101, USA
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Hold GL, Untiveros P, Saunders KA, El-Omar EM. Role of host genetics in fibrosis. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2009; 2:6. [PMID: 19961576 PMCID: PMC2796989 DOI: 10.1186/1755-1536-2-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2009] [Accepted: 12/04/2009] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis can occur in tissues in response to a variety of stimuli. Following tissue injury, cells undergo transformation or activation from a quiescent to an activated state resulting in tissue remodelling. The fibrogenic process creates a tissue environment that allows inflammatory and matrix-producing cells to invade and proliferate. While this process is important for normal wound healing, chronicity can lead to impaired tissue structure and function. This review examines the major factors involved in transforming or activating tissues towards fibrosis. The role of genetic variation within individuals affected by fibrosis has not been well described and it is in this context that we have examined the mediators of remodelling, including transforming growth factor-beta, T helper 2 cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases. Finally we examine the role of Toll-like receptors in fibrosis. The inflammatory phenotype that precedes fibrosis has been associated with Toll-like receptor activation. This is particularly important when considering gastrointestinal and hepatic disease, where inappropriate Toll-like receptor signalling, in response to the local microbe-rich environment, is thought to play an important role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina L Hold
- Division of Applied Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK.
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Isom HC, McDevitt EI, Moon MS. Elevated hepatic iron: a confounding factor in chronic hepatitis C. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2009; 1790:650-62. [PMID: 19393721 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2009.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2008] [Revised: 04/06/2009] [Accepted: 04/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Historically, iron overload in the liver has been associated with the genetic disorders hereditary hemochromatosis and thalassemia and with unusual dietary habits. More recently, elevated hepatic iron levels also have been observed in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Iron overload in the liver causes many changes including induction of oxidative stress, damage to lysosomes and mitochondria, altered oxidant defense systems and stimulation of hepatocyte proliferation. Chronic HCV infection causes numerous pathogenic changes in the liver including induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress, the unfolded protein response, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and altered growth control. Understanding the molecular and cellular changes that could occur in a liver which has elevated hepatic iron levels and in which HCV replication and gene expression are ongoing has clinical relevance and represents an area of research in need of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet C Isom
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
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Minisini R, Fabris C, Toniutto P, Pirisi M. Combinatorial use of single nucleotide polymorphisms to help predict liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis C infections. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 3:355-70. [DOI: 10.1517/17530050902893311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Franchini M, Targher G, Capra F, Montagnana M, Lippi G. The effect of iron depletion on chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Hepatol Int 2008; 2:335-40. [PMID: 19669262 PMCID: PMC2716881 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-008-9076-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2007] [Accepted: 03/21/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence exists that iron overload, a common finding in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, plays an important role in the pathophysiology of this disease. The mechanisms by which iron excess induces liver damage along with the benefit of iron depletion via phlebotomy on biochemical and histological outcomes in patients with chronic HCV infection have been discussed in this review. Finally, we focus on the effect of iron reduction on the rate of response to interferon antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Franchini
- Servizio di Immunoematologia e Trasfusione, Centro Emofilia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Verona, Ospedale Policlinico, Piazzale Ludovico Scuro, Verona, 37134, Italy,
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Gressner OA, Weiskirchen R, Gressner AM. Biomarkers of hepatic fibrosis, fibrogenesis and genetic pre-disposition pending between fiction and reality. J Cell Mol Med 2008; 11:1031-51. [PMID: 17979881 PMCID: PMC4401271 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2007.00092.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a frequent, life-threatening complication of most chronic liver diseases. Despite major achievements in the understanding of its pathogenesis, the translation of this knowledge into clinical practice is still limited. In particular, non-invasive and reliable (serum-) biomarkers indicating the activity of fibrogenesis are scarce. Class I biomarkers are defined as serum components having a direct relation to the mechanism of fibrogenesis, either as secreted matrix-related components of activated hepatic stellate cells and fibroblasts or as mediators of extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis or turnover. They reflect primarily the activity of the fibrogenic process. Many of them, however, proved to be disappointing with regard to sensitivity and speci-ficity. Up to now hyaluronan turned out to be the relative best type I serum marker. Class II biomarkers comprise in general rather simple standard laboratory tests, which are grouped into panels. They fulfil most criteria for detection and staging of fibrosis and to a lesser extent grading of fibrogenic activity. More than 20 scores are currently available, among which Fibrotest™ is the most popular one. However, the diagnostic use of many of these scores is still limited and standardization of the assays is only partially realized. Combining of panel markers in sequential algorithms might increase their diagnostic validity. The translation of genetic pre-disposition biomarkers into clinical practice has not yet started, but some polymorphisms indicate a link to progression and outcome of fibrogenesis. Parallel to serum markers non-invasive physical techniques, for example, transient elastography, are developed, which can be combined with serum tests and profiling of serum proteins and glycans.
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Affiliation(s)
- O A Gressner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Central Laboratory, RWTH-University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
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Pácal L, Husa P, Znojil V, Kanková K. HFE C282Y gene variant is a risk factor for the progression to decompensated liver disease in chronic viral hepatitis C subjects in the Czech population. Hepatol Res 2007; 37:740-7. [PMID: 17573946 DOI: 10.1111/j.1872-034x.2007.00118.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM To determine the prevalence of selected HFE polymorphisms (C282Y, H63D and S65C) among patients with chronic viral hepatitis B and C and to investigate their role in the progression of liver disease. METHODS A total of 207 subjects with chronic B or C viral hepatitis and 243 healthy controls were enrolled in the case-control study. Cases were further classified into three groups according to the clinical stage of liver disease: (A) virus carriers; (B) compensated liver disease; and (C) decompensated liver disease. HFE polymorphisms were detected by polymerase chain reaction-based methodology. Fisher's exact test, chi(2) and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to test for differences in variables studied between groups. Haplotypes were inferred in silico and their distribution compared by permutation test. Modified survival (time-to-event) analysis was used to test for the differences in the progression to the decompensated liver disease in carriers of C282Y wild-type versus mutated genotypes. RESULTS The frequency of HFE genotypes, alleles and haplotypes differed neither between HBV nor HCV patients versus controls. In HCV subjects: (i) the frequency of the 282Y allele was significantly higher in the (C) group compared to (B) group (12.5 vs 2.2%, respectively, P = 0.002, Fisher's exact test); and (ii) carriers of the 282Y mutation exhibited significantly faster progression to decompensated liver disease than wild-type carriers (P = 0.044, log-rank test). CONCLUSION Carriage of the minor HFE C282Y polymorphism is associated with decompensated liver disease and its earlier onset in the subjects with chronic viral hepatitis C in the Czech population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukás Pácal
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
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DePalma RG, Hayes VW, Zacharski LR. Bloodletting: Past and Present. J Am Coll Surg 2007; 205:132-44. [PMID: 17617342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2007.01.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2006] [Revised: 01/15/2007] [Accepted: 01/30/2007] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ralph G DePalma
- Patient Care Services VA Central Office, Washington, DC, USA
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29
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St. John TM. Chronic Hepatitis. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4160-2954-0.50027-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Campbell KM, Arya G, Ryckman FC, Alonso M, Tiao G, Balistreri WF, Bezerra JA. High prevalence of alpha-1-antitrypsin heterozygosity in children with chronic liver disease. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2007; 44:99-103. [PMID: 17204961 DOI: 10.1097/01.mpg.0000243434.54958.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alpha-1-antitrypsin (A1AT) deficiency is the most common genetic cause of liver disease in children; however, the role of polymorphic heterogeneity in the A1AT gene as a modifier of other forms of pediatric liver disease is not clear. We hypothesized that non-M A1AT allele variants are more common in children with chronic liver disease than in the general population. METHODS A retrospective, single-center study was performed in which A1AT phenotypes were obtained by reviewing charts of children with chronic liver disease. Chi-square analysis was used to compare allele frequencies in the population of children with liver disease with published epidemiologic data and to compare allele frequencies among disease subgroups. RESULTS The frequency of A1AT Z and other alleles was increased in children with chronic liver disease (n = 241) when compared with the published reference database (P < 0.001). This increase remained significant when the population was divided into disease subsets: biliary atresia (n = 67) and other liver disease (n = 174) (P < 0.001 for both). Among children with biliary atresia referred for liver transplant evaluation, the presence of a non-M allele was associated with a lower mean age at transplant listing than the MM phenotype (235 vs 779 days, P = 0.036) and more frequent loss of native liver by 24 months of age (90% vs 65%, P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS A1AT non-M alleles are more frequent in children with chronic liver disease than in the general population. We speculate that these non-M alleles may act as genetic modifiers in pediatric liver disease in general and modulate disease progression in children with biliary atresia in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Campbell
- Pediatric Liver Care Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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Alexander J, Kowdley KV. Effects of iron and HFE mutations on response to therapy in chronic hepatitis C: an ironic interaction? Gastroenterology 2006; 131:1635-8. [PMID: 17067603 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2006.09.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Bonkovsky HL, Naishadham D, Lambrecht RW, Chung RT, Hoefs JC, Nash SR, Rogers TE, Banner BF, Sterling RK, Donovan JA, Fontana RJ, Di Bisceglie AM, Ghany MG, Morishima C. Roles of iron and HFE mutations on severity and response to therapy during retreatment of advanced chronic hepatitis C. Gastroenterology 2006; 131:1440-51. [PMID: 17101320 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2006.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2006] [Accepted: 07/03/2006] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Iron overload may cause or contribute to hepatic injury and fibrosis. Mutations in the HFE gene may influence development or progression of chronic liver disease by increasing iron stores or modulating immune responses. The aim of this work was to assess the influence of HFE mutations and serum and hepatic measures of iron status on baseline features and response to lead-in therapy in subjects with advanced chronic hepatitis C enrolled in the Hepatitis C Anti-viral Long-term Treatment to prevent Cirrhosis (HALT-C) Trial. METHODS Entry criteria included an Ishak fibrosis score >2 and lack of iron overload (Scheuer iron grade <3+) according to local study pathologists. All baseline biopsy specimens were rescored by consensus of study pathologists, and detailed assessment of stainable iron was performed. Hepatic iron concentrations were measured on portions of 144 liver biopsy specimens. A total of 1051 out of 1145 subjects agreed to HFE mutational testing (C282Y, H63D, S65C). RESULTS Thirty-five percent carried at least one HFE gene mutation. There were no significant differences in the prevalence of HFE gene mutations among subjects with fibrosis (35.5%) versus cirrhosis (32.9%). Thirty-three percent of subjects had end-of-treatment and 16% sustained virologic responses. Presence of HFE mutations, in particular the H63D variation, was associated with increased end-of-treatment (40% vs 29%, P = .0078) and sustained virologic responses (20% with HFE mutation vs 14% sustained virologic response without HFE mutation; P = .009). CONCLUSIONS Although HFE mutations (especially the most frequent H63D mutation) are associated with increased iron loading, they are also associated with increased sustained virologic responses in US patients with advanced chronic hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert L Bonkovsky
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.
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Sebastiani G, Alberti A. Non invasive fibrosis biomarkers reduce but not substitute the need for liver biopsy. World J Gastroenterol 2006; 12:3682-94. [PMID: 16773685 PMCID: PMC4087461 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v12.i23.3682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2005] [Revised: 11/28/2005] [Accepted: 12/22/2005] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases are very common worldwide, particularly those linked to viral hepatitis and to alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver. Their natural history is variable and long-term evolution differs in individual patients. Optimised clinical management of compensated chronic liver diseases requires precise definition of the stage of liver fibrosis, the main determinant of prognosis and of most therapeutic decisions. Liver biopsy is the gold standard for assessment of hepatic fibrosis. However, it is invasive with possible complications, costly and prone to sampling errors. Many non-invasive markers of liver fibrosis have been recently proposed and assessed in the clinical setting as surrogates of liver biopsy. Direct markers are based on biochemical parameters directly linked to fibrogenesis while indirect markers use simple or more sophisticated parameters that correlate with liver fibrosis stages. Non-invasive markers of liver fibrosis have been tested in different forms of chronic liver disease and showed variable diagnostic performance, but accuracy rarely was above 75%-80%. Better results were obtained when markers were combined. On this line, we have recently proposed a set of algorithms that combine sequentially indirect non-invasive markers of liver fibrosis, reaching 90%-95% diagnostic accuracy with significant reduction in the need for liver biopsy. Based on available evidence, it can be anticipated that non-invasive markers of liver fibrosis and their combined use will soon become a most useful tool in the clinical management of many forms of chronic liver disease. However, their implementation is expected to reduce, but not to completely eliminate, the need for liver biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Sebastiani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Padova, Italy
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Remacha AF, Sardà MP, Barceló MJ, Bach V, Altès A, Baiget M, Guarner C, Blesa I. Genotype–phenotype correlation in a Spanish population homozygous for the H63D mutation of the HFE gene. Ann Hematol 2006; 85:340-2. [PMID: 16523311 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-006-0092-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2005] [Accepted: 01/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Matas M, Guix P, Castro JA, Parera M, Ramon MM, Obrador A, Picornell A. Prevalence of HFE C282Y and H63D in Jewish populations and clinical implications of H63D homozygosity. Clin Genet 2006; 69:155-62. [PMID: 16433696 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0004.2005.00563.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The frequencies of C282Y and H63D mutations of the HFE gene vary between different populations. A previous study showed an unexpectedly high H63D frequency in Chuetas (a population of Jewish descent). The present study addressed the question of the distribution of these mutations in Jewish populations from different origins and studied the possible causes of the high H63D frequency in Chuetas. Moreover, to improve the understanding of the controversial relationship between H63D homozygosity and iron overload, a group of patients with altered iron metabolism were studied. The high frequency of H63D mutation in Chuetas is not due to a high prevalence of this mutation in Sephardic Jews. Jewish populations have low C282Y and moderate H63D frequencies, suggesting slight gene flow from their surrounding populations. In accordance with historical and demographic data, genetic drift is the most probable cause for the singular H63D frequency in Chuetas. Clinically, this study of H63D homozygotes supports the conclusion that this genotype must be taken into account, because it confers an increased risk of iron overload and therefore genetic susceptibility to developing hereditary hemochromatosis or to aggravating other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Matas
- Laboratori de Genètica, Institut Universitari d'Investigacions en Ciències de la Salut (IUNICS) i Departament de Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Illes Balears, Spain
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Hillebrandt S, Wasmuth HE, Weiskirchen R, Hellerbrand C, Keppeler H, Werth A, Schirin-Sokhan R, Wilkens G, Geier A, Lorenzen J, Köhl J, Gressner AM, Matern S, Lammert F. Complement factor 5 is a quantitative trait gene that modifies liver fibrogenesis in mice and humans. Nat Genet 2005; 37:835-43. [PMID: 15995705 DOI: 10.1038/ng1599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2005] [Accepted: 05/19/2005] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fibrogenesis or scarring of the liver is a common consequence of all chronic liver diseases. Here we refine a quantitative trait locus that confers susceptibility to hepatic fibrosis by in silico mapping and show, using congenic mice and transgenesis with recombined artificial chromosomes, that the gene Hc (encoding complement factor C5) underlies this locus. Small molecule inhibitors of the C5a receptor had antifibrotic effects in vivo, and common haplotype-tagging polymorphisms of the human gene C5 were associated with advanced fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Thus, the mouse quantitative trait gene led to the identification of an unknown gene underlying human susceptibility to liver fibrosis, supporting the idea that C5 has a causal role in fibrogenesis across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Hillebrandt
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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Shan Y, Lambrecht RW, Bonkovsky HL. Association of hepatitis C virus infection with serum iron status: analysis of data from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Clin Infect Dis 2005; 40:834-41. [PMID: 15736017 DOI: 10.1086/428062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2004] [Accepted: 11/10/2004] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing evidence that mildly increased amounts of iron in the liver can increase hepatic injury, particularly if combined with other hepatotoxic factors, such as alcohol use, use of porphyrogenic drugs, or chronic viral hepatitis. In the present study, the association of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with serum measurements of iron status was assessed in the US population. METHODS We analyzed data from a total of 14,462 participants in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We excluded subjects who were aged <12 years, subjects for whom measurements of serum levels of iron or ferritin or the results of liver function tests were missing, and subjects who had a serum transferrin saturation of > or =50% (to help exclude subjects with hemochromatosis). RESULTS Mean serum levels of ferritin and iron (+/- standard error) were significantly higher among subjects with HCV infection (100+/-3 ng/mL and 229+/-17 microg/dL, respectively) than among subjects without liver disease (83+/-0.3 ng/mL and 101+/-2.1 microg/dL, respectively) (P<.0001). Serum levels of ferritin were directly and significantly correlated with serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (r=0.25, r=0.24, and r=0.28, respectively; P<.0001), whereas platelet counts were inversely correlated with serum levels of ferritin (r=-0.12; P<.0001). CONCLUSION HCV infection is significantly associated with higher serum levels of ferritin and iron in the US population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shan
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
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