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Linking Human Betaretrovirus with Autoimmunity and Liver Disease in Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Viruses 2022; 14:v14091941. [PMID: 36146750 PMCID: PMC9502388 DOI: 10.3390/v14091941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease characterized by the production of diagnostic antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) reactive to the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. A human betaretrovirus (HBRV) resembling mouse mammary tumor virus has been characterized in patients with PBC. However, linking the viral infection with the disease is not a straight-forward process because PBC is a complex multifactorial disease influenced by genetic, hormonal, autoimmune, environmental, and other factors. Currently, PBC is assumed to have an autoimmune etiology, but the evidence is lacking to support this conjecture. In this review, we describe different approaches connecting HBRV with PBC. Initially, we used co-cultivation of HBRV with biliary epithelial cells to trigger the PBC-specific phenotype with cell surface expression of cryptic mitochondrial autoantigens linked with antimitochondrial antibody expression. Subsequently, we have derived layers of proof to support the role of betaretrovirus infection in mouse models of autoimmune biliary disease with spontaneous AMA production and in patients with PBC. Using Hill’s criteria, we provide an overview of how betaretrovirus infection may trigger autoimmunity and propagate biliary disease. Ultimately, the demonstration that disease can be cured with antiviral therapy may sway the argument toward an infectious disease etiology in an analogous fashion that was used to link H. pylori with peptic ulcer disease.
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Turvey SL, Saxinger L, Mason AL. Apples to Apples? A Comparison of Real-World Tolerability of Antiretrovirals in Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection and Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Viruses 2022; 14:v14030516. [PMID: 35336923 PMCID: PMC8949089 DOI: 10.3390/v14030516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously characterized a human betaretrovirus and linked infection with the development of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). There are in vitro and in vivo data demonstrating that antiretroviral therapy used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be repurposed to treat betaretroviruses. As such, PBC patients have been treated with nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), alone and in combination with a boosted protease inhibitor or an integrase strand transfer inhibitor in case studies and clinical trials. However, a randomized controlled trial using combination antiretroviral therapy with lopinavir was terminated early because 70% of PBC patients discontinued therapy because of gastrointestinal side effects. In the open-label extension, patients tolerating combination therapy underwent a significant reduction in serum liver parameters, whereas those on NRTIs alone rebounded to baseline. Herein, we compare clinical experience in the experimental use of antiretroviral agents in patients with PBC with the broader experience of using these agents in people living with HIV infection. While the incidence of gastrointestinal side effects in the PBC population appears somewhat increased compared to those with HIV infection, the clinical improvement observed in patients with PBC suggests that further studies using the newer and better tolerated antiretroviral agents are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon L. Turvey
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (S.L.T.); (L.S.)
| | - Lynora Saxinger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (S.L.T.); (L.S.)
| | - Andrew L. Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-780-492-8176; Fax: +1-780-492-1655
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Lytvyak E, Niazi M, Pai R, He D, Zhang G, Hübscher SG, Mason AL. Combination antiretroviral therapy improves recurrent primary biliary cholangitis following liver transplantation. Liver Int 2021; 41:1879-1883. [PMID: 34008271 PMCID: PMC8362166 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14964] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent primary biliary cholangitis (rPBC) is frequent following liver transplantation and associated with increased morbidity and mortality. It has been argued that rPBC behaves like an infectious disease because more potent immunosuppression with tacrolimus is associated with earlier and more severe recurrence. Prophylactic ursodeoxycholic acid is an established therapeutic option to prevent rPBC, whereas the role of second line therapies, such as obeticholic acid and bezafibrate in rPBC, remains largely unexplored. To address the hypothesis that a human betaretrovirus plays a role in the development of PBC, we have tested antiretroviral therapy in vitro and conducted randomised controlled trials showing improvements in hepatic biochemistry. Herein, we describe the utility of combination antiretroviral therapy to manage rPBC in two patients treated with open label tenofovir/emtricitabine-based regimens in combination with either lopinavir or raltegravir. Both patients experienced sustained biochemical and histological improvement with treatment, but the antiretroviral therapy was associated with side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellina Lytvyak
- Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Mina Niazi
- Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Rohit Pai
- Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Daniel He
- Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Guangzhi Zhang
- Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | - Stefan G. Hübscher
- Institute of Immunology and ImmunotherapyUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK,Department of Cellular PathologyQueen Elizabeth HospitalBirminghamUK
| | - Andrew L. Mason
- Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonAlbertaCanada
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4
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Tsai YC, Tsai TF. Oral disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and immunosuppressants with antiviral potential, including SARS-CoV-2 infection: a review. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2020; 12:1759720X20947296. [PMID: 32952617 PMCID: PMC7476354 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x20947296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There have been several episodes of viral infection evolving into epidemics in recent decades, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the latest example. Its high infectivity and moderate mortality have resulted in an urgent need to find an effective treatment modality. Although the category of immunosuppressive drugs usually poses a risk of infection due to interference of the immune system, some of them have been found to exert antiviral properties and are already used in daily practice. Recently, hydroxychloroquine and baricitinib have been proposed as potential drugs for SARS-CoV-2. In fact, there are other immunosuppressants known with antiviral activities, including cyclosporine A, hydroxyurea, minocycline, mycophenolic acid, mycophenolate mofetil, leflunomide, tofacitinib, and thalidomide. The inherent antiviral activity could be a treatment choice for patients with coexisting rheumatological disorders and infections. Clinical evidence, their possible mode of actions and spectrum of antiviral activities are included in this review article. LAY SUMMARY Immunosuppressants often raise the concern of infection risks, especially for patients with underlying immune disorders. However, some disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) with inherent antiviral activity would be a reasonable choice in the situation of concomitant viral infections and flare up of autoimmune diseases. This review covers DMARDs of treatment potential for SARS-CoV-2 in part I, and antiviral mechanisms plus trial evidence for viruses other than SARS-CoV-2 in part II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y. C. Tsai
- Department of Dermatology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei city, Taiwan
| | - T. F. Tsai
- Department of Dermatology, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, No. 7, Zhongshan S. Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City 100, Taiwan
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5
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Lytvyak E, Hosamani I, Montano-Loza AJ, Saxinger L, Mason AL. Randomized clinical trial: Combination antiretroviral therapy with tenofovir-emtricitabine and lopinavir-ritonavir in patients with primary biliary cholangitis. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2019; 2:31-44. [PMID: 33981960 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj.2018-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior studies using reverse transcriptase inhibitors to treat a human betaretrovirus (HBRV) in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) resulted in a 21% reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Herein, we studied the safety and efficacy of combination tenofovir-emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) and lopinavir-ritonavir (LPRr) in PBC patients unresponsive to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). METHODS A double-blind randomized controlled trial was performed in patients on UDCA for 6 months or more with ALP levels greater than two-fold the upper limit of normal or bilirubin greater than the upper limit of normal. Patients were randomized to daily TDF/FTC 300/200 mg and LPRr 800/200 mg versus identical placebo for 6 months. The primary endpoint was reduction of ALP below 1.67 × ULN or normalization of bilirubin. HBRV DNA levels were assessed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) using digital droplet polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The enrolment was limited to 13 patients because most patients were unable to tolerate LPRr due to the development of gastrointestinal symptoms. No difference in the primary endpoint was achieved. A significant reduction was observed in ALP by 25% (P < 0.05) and in HBRV proviral load (P < 0.05) after 6 months of combination antiretroviral therapy. The majority of patients had diminished levels of LPRr after 6 months' therapy suggesting inadequate intake of protease inhibitor toward the end of the study. CONCLUSIONS Combination anti-retroviral therapy resulted in improvement in hepatic biochemistry with reduction in proviral load. The frequency of side effects from LPRr in patients with PBC exceeds the frequency reported for HIV, warranting the search for better tolerated combinations in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellina Lytvyak
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ishwar Hosamani
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lynora Saxinger
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrew L Mason
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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6
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Montano-Loza AJ, Hansen BE, Corpechot C, Roccarina D, Thorburn D, Trivedi P, Hirschfield G, McDowell P, Poupon R, Dumortier J, Bosch A, Giostria E, Conti F, Parés A, Reig A, Floreani A, Russo FP, Goet JC, Harms MH, van Buuren H, Van den Ende N, Nevens F, Verhelst X, Donato MF, Malinverno F, Ebadi M, Mason AL. Factors Associated With Recurrence of Primary Biliary Cholangitis After Liver Transplantation and Effects on Graft and Patient Survival. Gastroenterology 2019; 156:96-107.e1. [PMID: 30296431 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) frequently recurs after liver transplantation. We evaluated risk factors associated with recurrence of PBC and its effects on patient and graft survival in a multicenter, international cohort (the Global PBC Study Group). METHODS We collected demographic and clinical data from 785 patients (89% female) with PBC who underwent liver transplantation (mean age, 54 ± 9 years) from February 1983 through June 2016, among 13 centers in North America and Europe. Results from biochemical tests performed within 12 months of liver transplantation were analyzed to determine whether markers of cholestasis could identify patients with recurrence of PBC (based on histologic analysis). Patients were followed for a median 6.9 years (interquartile range, 6.1-7.9 years). RESULTS PBC recurred in 22% of patients after 5 years and 36% after 10 years. Age at diagnosis <50 years (hazard ratio [HR], 1.79; 95% CI, 1.36-2.36; P < .001), age at liver transplantation <60 years (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.02-1.90; P = .04), use of tacrolimus (HR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.72-3.10; P < .001), and biochemical markers of severe cholestasis (bilirubin ≥100 μmol or alkaline phosphatase >3-fold the upper limit of normal) at 6 months after liver transplantation (HR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.16-2.76; P = .008) were associated with higher risk of PBC recurrence, whereas use of cyclosporine reduced risk of PBC recurrence (HR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.46-0.82; P = .001). In multivariable Cox regression with time-dependent covariate, recurrence of PBC significantly associated with graft loss (HR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.16-3.51; P = .01) and death (HR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.11-2.65; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS Younger age at the time of diagnosis with PBC or at liver transplantation, tacrolimus use, and biochemical markers of cholestasis after liver transplantation are associated with PBC recurrence. PBC recurrence reduces odds of graft and patient survival. Strategies are needed to prevent PBC recurrence or reduce its negative effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Bettina E Hansen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christophe Corpechot
- Reference Center for Inflammatory Biliary Diseases, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Davide Roccarina
- University College London Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas Thorburn
- University College London Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Palak Trivedi
- National Institute for Health Research, Centre for Liver Research, University Hospitals Birmingham, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gideon Hirschfield
- National Institute for Health Research, Centre for Liver Research, University Hospitals Birmingham, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom; Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom; Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Patrick McDowell
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Raoul Poupon
- Reference Center for Inflammatory Biliary Diseases, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jerome Dumortier
- Liver Transplant Unit, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Alexie Bosch
- Liver Transplant Unit, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Emiliano Giostria
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Filomena Conti
- Liver Transplant Unit, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hôpital, Paris France
| | - Albert Parés
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, The August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute, Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases, Barcelona Spain
| | - Anna Reig
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, The August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute, Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases, Barcelona Spain
| | - Annarosa Floreani
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Russo
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Jorn C Goet
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maren H Harms
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henk van Buuren
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Frederik Nevens
- Division Liver and Biliopancreatic Disorders, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Xavier Verhelst
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maria Francesca Donato
- Transplant Hepatology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maggiore Hospital Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Malinverno
- Transplant Hepatology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maggiore Hospital Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Maryam Ebadi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrew L Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Abstract
The human betaretrovirus and the closely related mouse mammary tumor virus have been linked with the development of cholangitis and mitochondrial antibody production in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and mouse models of autoimmune biliary disease, respectively. In vitro, betaretroviruses have been found to stimulate the expression of mitochondrial autoantigens on the cell surface of biliary epithelial cells. In vivo, both mitochondrial autoantigens and viral proteins have been shown to be co-expressed in biliary epithelium and lymphoid tissue. Notably, both mice and humans make poor antibody responses to betaretrovirus infection, whereas proinflammatory responses to viral proteins have been observed in T lymphocyte studies. Furthermore, proviral integration studies have confirmed the presence of human betaretrovirus in biliary epithelium of patients with PBC. Preliminary proof of principal studies using combination antiretroviral therapy have shown that suppression of viral expression is associated with sustained biochemical response. As the previous regimen used was poorly tolerated, further randomized controlled trials are planned to determine whether betaretrovirus infection plays an important role in the development of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Mason
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E1, Canada.
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8
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Mason AL, Siminovitch KA. New perspectives on the complexity of genetic predisposition to autoimmune liver disease in indigenous Canadians. Liver Int 2018; 38:789-791. [PMID: 29702744 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Mason
- Center of Excellence in Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Katherine A Siminovitch
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Montano‐Loza AJ, Mason AL. Recurrence of primary biliary cholangitis after liver transplantation: A Japanese perspective. Hepatol Commun 2017; 1:391-393. [PMID: 29404467 PMCID: PMC5721417 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aldo J. Montano‐Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver UnitUniversity of Alberta HospitalEdmontonCanada
| | - Andrew L. Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver UnitUniversity of Alberta HospitalEdmontonCanada
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Montano-Loza AJ, Bhanji RA, Wasilenko S, Mason AL. Systematic review: recurrent autoimmune liver diseases after liver transplantation. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 45:485-500. [PMID: 27957759 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) constitute the third most common indication for liver transplantation (LT) worldwide. Outcomes post LT are generally good but recurrent disease is frequently observed. AIMS To describe the frequency and risk factors associated with recurrent AILD post-LT and provide recommendations to reduce the incidence of recurrence based on levels of evidence. METHODS A systematic review was performed for full-text papers published in English-language journals, using the keywords 'autoimmune hepatitis (AIH)', 'primary biliary cholangitis and/or cirrhosis (PBC)', 'primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)', 'liver transplantation' and 'recurrent disease'. Management strategies to reduce recurrence after LT were classified according to grade and level of evidence. RESULTS Survival rates post-LT are approximately 90% and 70% at 1 and 5 years and recurrent disease occurs in a range of 10-50% of patients with AILD. Recurrent AIH is associated with elevated liver enzymes and IgG before LT, lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates in the explants and lack of steroids after LT (Grade B). Tacrolimus use is associated with increased risk; use of ciclosporin and preventive ursodeoxycholic acid with reduced risk of PBC recurrence (all Grade B). Intact colon, active ulcerative colitis and early cholestasis are associated with recurrent PSC (Grade B). CONCLUSIONS Recommendations based on grade A level of evidence are lacking. The need for further study and management includes active immunosuppression before liver transplantation and steroid use after liver transplantation in autoimmune hepatitis; selective immunosuppression with ciclosporin and preventive ursodeoxycholic acid treatment for primary biliary cholangitis; and improved control of inflammatory bowel disease or even colectomy in primary sclerosing cholangitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Montano-Loza
- Division of Gastroenterology & Liver Unit, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - R A Bhanji
- Division of Gastroenterology & Liver Unit, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - S Wasilenko
- Division of Gastroenterology & Liver Unit, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - A L Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology & Liver Unit, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Kouroumalis E, Notas G. Primary biliary cirrhosis: From bench to bedside. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther 2015; 6:32-58. [PMID: 26261733 PMCID: PMC4526840 DOI: 10.4292/wjgpt.v6.i3.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Revised: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic non-suppurative destructive intrahepatic cholangitis leading to cirrhosis after a protractive non cirrhotic stage. The etiology and pathogenesis are largely unknown and autoimmne mechanisms have been implicated to explain the pathological lesions. Many epitopes and autoantigens have been reported as crucial in the pathophysiology of the disease and T and B cells abnormalities have been described, the exact pathways leading to the destruction of small intrahepatic ductules are mostly speculative. In this review we examined the various epidemiologal and geoepidemiological data as well as the complex pathogenetic aspects of this disease, focusing on recent in vivo and in vitro studies in this field. Initiation and progression of PBC is believed to be a multifactorial process with strong infuences from the patient’s genetic background and by various environmental factors. The role of innate and adaptive immunity, including cytokines, chemokines, macrophages and the involvement of apoptosis and reactive oxygen species are outlined in detailed. The current pathogenetic aspects are presented and a novel pathogenetic theory unifying the accumulated clinical information with in vitro and in vivo data is formulated. A review of clinical manifestations and immunological and pathological diagnosis was presented. Treatment modalities, including the multiple mechanisms of action of ursodeoxycholate were finally discussed.
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12
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Sharon D, Chen M, Zhang G, Girgis S, Sis B, Graham D, McDougall C, Wasilenko ST, Montano-Loza A, Mason AL. Impact of combination antiretroviral therapy in the NOD.c3c4 mouse model of autoimmune biliary disease. Liver Int 2015; 35:1442-50. [PMID: 25302564 PMCID: PMC4403978 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The NOD.c3c4 mouse model develops autoimmune biliary disease characterized by spontaneous granulomatous cholangitis, antimitochondrial antibodies and liver failure. This model for primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) has evidence of biliary infection with mouse mammary tumour virus (MMTV), suggesting that the virus may have a role in cholangitis development and progression of liver disease in this mouse model. We tested the hypothesis that MMTV infection is associated with cholangitis in the NOD.c3c4 mouse model by investigating whether antiretroviral therapy impacts on viral levels and liver disease. METHODS NOD.c3c4 mice were treated with combination antiretroviral therapy. Response to treatment was studied by measuring MMTV RNA in the liver, liver enzyme levels in serum and liver histology using a modified Ishak score. RESULTS Combination therapy with the reverse transcriptase inhibitors, tenofovir and emtricitabine, resulted in a significant reduction in serum liver enzyme levels, attenuation of cholangitis and decreased MMTV levels in the livers of NOD.c3c4 mice. Furthermore, treatment with the retroviral protease inhibitors, lopinavir and ritonavir, in addition to the reverse transcriptase inhibitors, resulted in further decrease in MMTV levels and attenuation of liver disease in this model. CONCLUSIONS The attenuation of cholangitis with regimens containing the reverse transcriptase inhibitors, tenofovir and emtricitabine, and the protease inhibitors, lopinavir and ritonavir, suggests that retroviral infection may play a role in the development of cholangitis in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sharon
- Department of Medicine, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Min Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Guangzhi Zhang
- Department of Medicine, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Safwat Girgis
- Department of Pathology, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Banu Sis
- Department of Pathology, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Don Graham
- Department of Medicine, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Andrew L Mason
- Department of Medicine, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada,Correspondence Andrew L. Mason, Division of Gastroenterology, Center of Excellence in Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research 7-142 KGR, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2X8 Canada, Tel: (780) 492-8172, Fax: (780) 492-1655, e-mail:
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13
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Role of novel retroviruses in chronic liver disease: assessing the link of human betaretrovirus with primary biliary cirrhosis. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2015; 17:460. [PMID: 25754451 PMCID: PMC4353873 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-014-0460-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A human betaretrovirus resembling mouse mammary tumor virus has been characterized in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. The agent triggers a disease-specific phenotype in vitro with aberrant cell-surface expression of mitochondrial antigens. The presentation of a usually sequestered self-protein is thought to lead to the loss of tolerance and the production of anti-mitochondrial antibodies associated with the disease. Similar observations have been made in mouse models, where mouse mammary tumor virus infection has been linked with the development of cholangitis and production of anti-mitochondrial antibodies. The use of combination antiretroviral therapy has been shown to impact on histological and biochemical disease in mouse models of autoimmune biliary disease and in clinical trials of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. However, the HIV protease inhibitors are not well tolerated in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, and more efficacious regimens will be required to clearly link reduction of viral load with improvement of cholangitis.
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Wang W, Indik S, Wasilenko ST, Faschinger A, Carpenter EJ, Tian Z, Zhang Y, Wong GKS, Mason AL. Frequent proviral integration of the human betaretrovirus in biliary epithelium of patients with autoimmune and idiopathic liver disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2015; 41:393-405. [PMID: 25521721 PMCID: PMC4312917 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A human betaretrovirus (HBRV) has been linked with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) following the detection of viral particles in biliary epithelium by electron microscopy and cloning of the betaretrovirus genome from biliary epithelium and peri-hepatic lymph nodes. Evidence for viral infection was found in the majority of PBC patients' peri-hepatic lymph node samples. However, less than a third of the liver samples had detectable HBRV, whereas others were unable to detect betaretrovirus infection or noted the presence of virus in the liver of patients with other diagnoses. AIMS To address the hypothesis that the betaretrovirus may be below the limits of detection in the liver, biliary epithelial cells (BEC) were investigated for the evidence of infection. METHODS Ligation-mediated PCR and next generation sequencing were used to detect proviral integrations in liver, lymph nodes and BEC isolated from liver transplant recipients. Hybridisation-based assays were used to detect betaretroviral RNA in BEC. RESULTS Unique HBRV integrations and betaretrovirus RNA were detected in the majority of biliary epithelia derived from patients with PBC, autoimmune hepatitis and cryptogenic liver disease but rarely in other liver transplant recipients with primary sclerosing cholangitis and other hepatic disorders. HBRV integrations were commonly found in PBC patients' lymph nodes but rarely in whole liver samples. CONCLUSIONS Human betaretrovirus infection is frequently observed at the site of disease in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis and also in biliary epithelium of patients with autoimmune hepatitis and cryptogenic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Wang
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - S Indik
- Department of Virology, University of Veterinary MedicineVienna, Austria
| | - S T Wasilenko
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - A Faschinger
- Department of Virology, University of Veterinary MedicineVienna, Austria
| | - E J Carpenter
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Z Tian
- BGI-Shenzhen, Bei Shan Industrial ZoneShenzhen, China
| | - Y Zhang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Bei Shan Industrial ZoneShenzhen, China
| | - G K-S Wong
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada,Department of Biological Sciences, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada,BGI-Shenzhen, Bei Shan Industrial ZoneShenzhen, China,Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada,Prof. G. K.-S. Wong,, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton AB, T6G 2E9, Canada.,
| | - A L Mason
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada,Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada,Correspondence to:, Dr A. L. Mason, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 7-142 KGR, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2E1., E-mail:
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Wasilenko ST, Montano-Loza AJ, Mason AL. Is there a role for cyclophilin inhibitors in the management of primary biliary cirrhosis? Viruses 2013; 5:423-38. [PMID: 23348060 PMCID: PMC3640509 DOI: 10.3390/v5020423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Revised: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) are poorly understood autoimmune liver diseases. Immunosuppression is used to treat AIH and ursodeoxycholic acid is used to slow the progression of PBC. Nevertheless, a proportion of patients with both disorders progress to liver failure. Following liver transplantation, up to a third of patients with PBC experience recurrent disease. Moreover a syndrome referred to as "de novo AIH" occurs in a proportion of patients regardless of maintenance immunosuppression, who have been transplanted for disorders unrelated to AIH. Of note, the use of cyclosporine A appears to protect against the development of recurrent PBC and de novo AIH even though it is a less potent immunosuppressive compared to tacrolimus. The reason why cyclosporine A is protective has not been determined. However, a virus resembling mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) has been characterized in patients with PBC and AIH. Accordingly, we hypothesized that the protective effect of cyclosporine A in liver transplant recipients may be mediated by the antiviral activity of this cyclophilin inhibitor. Treatment of the MMTV producing MM5MT cells with different antivirals and immunosuppressive agents showed that both cyclosporine A and the analogue NIM811 inhibited MMTV production from the producer cells. Herein, we discuss the evidence supporting the role of MMTV-like human betaretrovirus in the development of PBC and de novo AIH and speculate on the possibility that the agent may be associated with disease following transplantation. We also review the mechanisms of how both cyclosporine A and NIM811 may inhibit betaretrovirus production in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn T Wasilenko
- Department of Medicine, Zeidler Ledcor Centre, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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Abstract
Substantial advancements in the field of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) research have broadened our understanding of this enigmatic disease. Genome-wide studies have identified several new candidate genes involved in the immunoregulatory process, particularly those responsible for antigen presentation and lymphocyte signaling. Examples include the HLA class-II region and genes implicated in IL12-JAK/STAT signaling, and the NF-κB and TNF signaling pathways. Environmental triggers appear to disrupt the pre-existing, unstable immune tolerance in genetically susceptible individuals, and molecular mimics of the PBC-specific autoantigen (PDC) may be derived from microbes or xenobiotic compounds, which modify native proteins, making them immunogenic. Although the vast majority of patients with PBC are AMA-positive, a variety of disease-specific antinuclear antibodies have been recognized in conferring a worse clinical outcome. There has also been a revived interest in the role of antibody-secreting B cells in murine models suggesting that depletion of these cells paradoxically exacerbates cholangiopathy. Biliary specificity in PBC is most likely driven by the uniqueness of cholangiocyte apoptosis in which the PDC-E2 autoantigen undergoes differential glutathiolation. Cholangiocytes also possess the ability to phagocytose neighboring apoptotic cells, present intact immunoreactive antigen, and undergo attack from autoantibodies, the innate immune system, and autoreactive lymphocytes. Cellular senescence and a lack of functioning T-regulatory cells are proposed mechanisms by which this multi-lineage process is thought to be enhanced. This review summarizes these key advances as the true complexities of the disease process begin to be unraveled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palak J Trivedi
- Centre for Liver Research and NIHR Liver Biomedical Research Unit, University of Birmingham, 5th Floor, Institute for Biomedical Research, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Sue Cullen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Wycombe General Hospital, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, UK
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Immunopathogenesis of primary biliary cirrhosis: an old wives' tale. IMMUNITY & AGEING 2011; 8:12. [PMID: 22136162 PMCID: PMC3238302 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4933-8-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a cholestatic liver disease characterised by the autoimmune destruction of the small intrahepatic bile ducts. The disease has an unpredictable clinical course, but may progress to fibrosis and cirrhosis. Although medical treatment with urseodeoxycholic acid is largely successful, some patients may progress to liver failure requiring liver transplantation. PBC is characterised by the presence of disease specific anti-mitochondrial (AMA) antibodies, which are pathognomonic for PBC development. The disease demonstrates an overwhelming female preponderance and virtually all women with PBC present in middle age. The reasons for this are unknown; however several environmental and immunological factors may be involved. As the immune systems ages, it become less self tolerant, and mounts a weaker response to pathogens, possibly leading to cross reactivity or molecular mimicry. Some individuals display immunological changes which encourage the development of autoimmune disease. Risk factors implicated in PBC include recurrent urinary tract infection in females, as well as an increased prevalence of reproductive complications. These risk factors may work in concert with and possibly even accelerate, immune system ageing, contributing to PBC development. This review will examine the changes that occur in the immune system with ageing, paying particular attention to those changes which contribute to the development of autoimmune disease with increasing age. The review also discusses risk factors which may account for the increased female predominance of PBC, such as recurrent UTI and oestrogens.
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Mason AL. The evidence supports a viral aetiology for primary biliary cirrhosis. J Hepatol 2011; 54:1312-4. [PMID: 21147183 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2010.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2010] [Revised: 11/14/2010] [Accepted: 12/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Mason
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Schembri
- Department of Genitourinary and HIV Medicine. Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
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Mason AL, Zhang G. Linking human beta retrovirus infection with primary biliary cirrhosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 34:359-66. [PMID: 20580176 DOI: 10.1016/j.gcb.2010.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2010] [Accepted: 04/28/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Several environmental agents have been linked with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) that include bacteria, xenobiotics and viruses. A human beta retrovirus (HBRV) related to mouse mammary tumor virus has been cloned and characterized from patients with PBC. This agent can be detected in the majority of patients' perihepatic lymph nodes by immunochemistry and RT-PCR. The HBRV has recently been isolated in culture and integration sites have been identified in the genome of patients to provide convincing evidence of beta retrovirus infection in patients. Three lines of evidence support a role for the virus in PBC. First, the beta retrovirus is linked with aberrant expression of mitochondrial protein(s) on the biliary epithelium cell (BEC) surface, a disease specific phenotype. Second, the related agent, mouse mammary tumor virus has been linked with autoimmune biliary disease in the NOD.c3c4 mouse model for PBC. In this mouse model, the virus is localized to diseased biliary epithelium that also display aberrant expression of the mitochondrial autoantigens. In translational studies, both patients with PBC and NOD.c3c4 mice demonstrate significant improvement in biliary disease with combination antiviral therapy. An overview of the biological relevance of the beta retrovirus infection in PBC will be discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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