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Roca Suarez AA, Batbold E, Bartosch B, Dashdorj N, Testoni B, Zoulim F. Emerging anti-HDV drugs and HBV cure strategies with anti-HDV activity. Liver Int 2023; 43 Suppl 1:87-95. [PMID: 37017060 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a satellite RNA virus that requires the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) for its replication. HDV/HBV co-infection is often associated with a faster disease progression of chronic hepatitis in comparison to HBV mono-infection. Therefore, the development of novel antiviral therapies targeting HDV represents a high priority and an urgent medical need. In this review, we summarize the ongoing efforts to evaluate promising HDV-specific drugs, such as lonafarnib (LNF), pegylated interferon lambda (PEG-IFN-λ) and their use as a combination therapy. Furthermore, we review the most recent developments in the area of anti-HBV drugs with potential effects against HDV, including therapeutic agents targeting hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) expression, secretion and function. Finally, we consider the important insights that have emerged from the development of these potential antiviral strategies, as well as the intriguing questions that remain to be elucidated in this rapidly changing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando A Roca Suarez
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | | | - Birke Bartosch
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | | | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
- Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), Lyon, France
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2
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Li X, Xu L, Lu L, Liu X, Yang Y, Wu Y, Han Y, Li X, Li Y, Song X, Cao W, Li T. CD4 + T cell counts and soluble programmed death-1 at baseline correlated with hepatitis B surface antigen decline in HIV/HBV coinfection during combined antiretroviral therapy. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1178788. [PMID: 37207191 PMCID: PMC10189149 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1178788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Several studies have described the rapid decline and clearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis B virus (HBV) coinfection after initiating combined antiretroviral therapy (cART). Early decline of HBsAg levels is associated with HBsAg seroclearance in the treatment of chronic HBV infection. This study aims to evaluate the HBsAg kinetics and the determinants of early HBsAg decline in patients with HIV/HBV coinfection during cART. Methods A total of 51 patients with HIV/HBV coinfection were enrolled from a previously established HIV/AIDS cohort and followed for a median of 59.5 months after cART initiation. Biochemical tests, virology and immunology assessments were measured longitudinally. The kinetics of HBsAg during cART were analyzed. Soluble programmed death-1 (sPD-1) levels and immune activation markers (CD38 and HLA-DR) were measured at baseline, 1-year and 3-year during treatment. HBsAg response was defined as a decline of more than 0.5 log10 IU/ml at 6 months from the baseline after initiation of cART. Results HBsAg declined faster (0.47 log10 IU/mL) in the first six months and attained a decrease of 1.39 log10 IU/mL after 5-year therapy. Seventeen (33.3%) participants achieved a decline of more than 0.5 log10 IU/ml at the first 6 months of cART(HBsAg response) of which five patients achieved HBsAg clearance at a median of 11 months (range: 6-51 months). Multivariate logistic analysis showed the lower baseline CD4+ T cell levels (OR=6.633, P=0.012) and sPD-1 level (OR=5.389, P=0.038) were independently associated with HBsAg response after cART initiation. The alanine aminotransferase abnormality rate and HLA-DR expression were significantly higher in patients who achieved HBsAg response than in those who did not achieve HBsAg response after cART initiation. Conclusion Lower CD4 + T cells, sPD-1, and immune activation were related to a rapid HBsAg decline in patients with HIV/HBV-coinfection after the initiation of cART. These findings imply that immune disorders induced by HIV infection may disrupt immune tolerance to HBV, leading to a faster decline in HBsAg levels during coinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodi Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Chao-yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lianfeng Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaosheng Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanni Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Han
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxia Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanling Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojing Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Taisheng Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Taisheng Li,
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Wang CR, Liu XQ, Li H, Zhang Q, Zhong GC, Tang Q, Chang Y, Wang JS, Duan YQ, Hu P. PgRNA kinetics predict HBsAg reduction in pregnant chronic hepatitis B carriers after treatment cessation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:1055774. [PMID: 36579348 PMCID: PMC9791257 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1055774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) and hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) play significant roles in predicting discontinuing treatment outcomes. However, their role in pregnancy has rarely been reported. We aimed to evaluate the performance of pgRNA and HBcrAg kinetics in predicting HBeAg seroconversion and HBsAg reduction postpartum in HBeAg-positive pregnant women. Methods Pregnant HBeAg-positive patients receiving antiviral prophylaxis and ceasing treatment postpartum were included. PgRNA and HBcrAg levels were measured before treatment, at 32 weeks of gestation, and at treatment withdrawal postpartum. Other virological and biochemical parameters were regularly examined until 96 weeks postpartum. Results Of 76 pregnant chronic hepatitis B (CHB) carriers with a median treatment duration of 18.1 weeks, HBeAg seroconversion and HBsAg reduction >0.3 log10 IU/mL at 96 weeks postpartum occurred in 8 (10.5%) and 13 (17.1%) patients, respectively. HBsAg correlated most strongly with pgRNA, while HBeAg correlated most strongly with HBcrAg. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that postpartum pgRNA decline and peak ALT levels were independent predictors of HBsAg reduction. The area under the curve of the regression model was 0.79 and reached as high as 0.76 through bootstrapping validation. The calibration plot showed that the nomogram had a performance similar to that of the ideal model. A decision tree was established to facilitate application of the nomogram. In addition, HBcrAg kinetics, as an independent predictor, performed poorly in predicting HBeAg seroconversion. Conclusions Postpartum pgRNA decline together with peak ALT levels may identify patients with a higher probability of HBsAg reduction after treatment cessation postpartum among pregnant CHB carriers receiving antiviral prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Rui Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-qin Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hu Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guo-Chao Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiao Tang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunan Chang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin-Song Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuan-qin Duan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China,*Correspondence: Peng Hu, ;
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4
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Kramvis A, Chang KM, Dandri M, Farci P, Glebe D, Hu J, Janssen HLA, Lau DTY, Penicaud C, Pollicino T, Testoni B, Van Bömmel F, Andrisani O, Beumont-Mauviel M, Block TM, Chan HLY, Cloherty GA, Delaney WE, Geretti AM, Gehring A, Jackson K, Lenz O, Maini MK, Miller V, Protzer U, Yang JC, Yuen MF, Zoulim F, Revill PA. A roadmap for serum biomarkers for hepatitis B virus: current status and future outlook. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 19:727-745. [PMID: 35859026 PMCID: PMC9298709 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-022-00649-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Globally, 296 million people are infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), and approximately one million people die annually from HBV-related causes, including liver cancer. Although there is a preventative vaccine and antiviral therapies suppressing HBV replication, there is no cure. Intensive efforts are under way to develop curative HBV therapies. Currently, only a few biomarkers are available for monitoring or predicting HBV disease progression and treatment response. As new therapies become available, new biomarkers to monitor viral and host responses are urgently needed. In October 2020, the International Coalition to Eliminate Hepatitis B Virus (ICE-HBV) held a virtual and interactive workshop on HBV biomarkers endorsed by the International HBV Meeting. Various stakeholders from academia, clinical practice and the pharmaceutical industry, with complementary expertise, presented and participated in panel discussions. The clinical utility of both classic and emerging viral and immunological serum biomarkers with respect to the course of infection, disease progression, and response to current and emerging treatments was appraised. The latest advances were discussed, and knowledge gaps in understanding and interpretation of HBV biomarkers were identified. This Roadmap summarizes the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges of HBV biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Kyong-Mi Chang
- The Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center and University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Maura Dandri
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems partner site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Patrizia Farci
- Hepatic Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Dieter Glebe
- National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Institute of Medical Virology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jianming Hu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Harry L A Janssen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daryl T Y Lau
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Capucine Penicaud
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Teresa Pollicino
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, Department of Human Pathology, University Hospital "G. Martino" of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | - Florian Van Bömmel
- Department of Hepatology, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ourania Andrisani
- Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | | | | | - Henry L Y Chan
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
- Union Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | | | | | - Anna Maria Geretti
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fondazione PTV, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Adam Gehring
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kathy Jackson
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Mala K Maini
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Veronica Miller
- Forum for Collaborative Research, University of California Berkeley School of Public Health, Washington DC Campus, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Man-Fung Yuen
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM Unit 1052 - Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon University, Lyon, France
| | - Peter A Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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Phase IIa, randomised, double-blind study of GSK3389404 in patients with chronic hepatitis B on stable nucleos(t)ide therapy. J Hepatol 2022; 77:967-977. [PMID: 35714812 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Bepirovirsen, an antisense oligonucleotide targeting pregenomic and mRNA transcripts of HBV, has been conjugated to N-acetyl galactosamine (GSK3389404) to enhance hepatocyte delivery. This dose-finding study was the first to assess GSK3389404 for chronic HBV infection. METHODS This phase IIa, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 2-part study was conducted in 22 centres in Asia (NCT03020745). Pharmacokinetic findings from Part 1 informed Part 2 dosing. In Part 2, patients with chronic hepatitis B on nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy were randomised 11:2 to GSK3389404 (30, 60, 120 mg weekly or 120 mg bi-weekly) or placebo until Day 85. Coprimary endpoints included HBsAg response (≥1.5 log10 IU/ml reduction from baseline) rate, safety and pharmacokinetics. RESULTS Parts 1 and 2 included 12 (9 GSK3389404, 3 placebo) and 66 patients (56 GSK3389404, 10 placebo), respectively. In Part 2, one patient each in the 60 mg weekly, 120 mg weekly and 120 mg bi-weekly arms achieved a HBsAg response. HBsAg reductions were dose-dependent (Day 85: mean 0.34 [60 mg weekly] to 0.75 log10 IU/ml [120 mg weekly]) and occurred in hepatitis B e antigen-positive and -negative patients. No patient achieved HBsAg seroclearance. 43/56 (77%) GSK3389404- and 9/10 (90%) placebo-treated patients reported adverse events. No deaths were reported. Alanine aminotransferase flares (>2x upper limit of normal) occurred in 2 GSK3389404-treated patients (120 mg weekly, 120 mg bi-weekly); both were associated with decreased HBsAg, but neither was considered a responder. GSK3389404 plasma concentrations peaked 2-4 hours post dose; mean plasma half-life was 3-5 hours. CONCLUSIONS GSK3389404 showed an acceptable safety profile and target engagement, with dose-dependent reductions in HBsAg. However, no efficacious dosing regimen was identified. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER NCT03020745. LAY SUMMARY Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can result in chronic HBV infection, which may ultimately lead to chronic liver disease, primary liver cancer and death; HBV proteins may prevent the immune system from successfully controlling the virus. GSK3389404 is an investigational agent that targets HBV RNA, resulting in reduced viral protein production. This study assessed the safety of GSK3389404 and its ability to reduce the viral proteins in patients with chronic HBV infection. GSK3389404 showed dose-dependent reduction in hepatitis B surface antigen, with an acceptable safety profile. While no clear optimal dose was identified, the findings from this study may help in the development of improved treatment options for patients with chronic HBV infections.
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Wildum S, Korolowicz KE, Suresh M, Steiner G, Dai L, Li B, Yon C, De Vera Mudry MC, Regenass-Lechner F, Huang X, Hong X, Murreddu MG, Kallakury BV, Young JAT, Menne S. Toll-Like Receptor 7 Agonist RG7854 Mediates Therapeutic Efficacy and Seroconversion in Woodchucks With Chronic Hepatitis B. Front Immunol 2022; 13:884113. [PMID: 35677037 PMCID: PMC9169629 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.884113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional treatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is rarely curative due to the immunotolerant status of patients. RG7854 is an oral double prodrug of a toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonist that is developed for the treatment of CHB. The therapeutic efficacy, host immune response, and safety of RG7854 were evaluated in the woodchuck model of CHB. Monotreatment with the two highest RG7854 doses and combination treatment with the highest RG7854 dose and entecavir (ETV) suppressed viral replication, led to loss of viral antigens, and induced seroconversion in responder woodchucks. Since viral suppression and high-titer antibodies persisted after treatment ended, this suggested that a sustained antiviral response (SVR) was induced by RG7854 in a subset of animals. The SVR rate, however, was comparable between both treatment regimens, suggesting that the addition of ETV did not enhance the therapeutic efficacy of RG7854 although it augmented the proliferation of blood cells in response to viral antigens and magnitude of antibody titers. The induction of interferon-stimulated genes in blood by RG7854/ETV combination treatment demonstrated on-target activation of TLR7. Together with the virus-specific blood cell proliferation and the transient elevations in liver enzymes and inflammation, this suggested that cytokine-mediated non-cytolytic and T-cell mediated cytolytic mechanisms contributed to the SVR, in addition to the virus-neutralizing effects by antibody-producing plasma cells. Both RG7854 regimens were not associated with treatment-limiting adverse effects but accompanied by dose-dependent, transient neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. The study concluded that finite, oral RG7854 treatment can induce a SVR in woodchucks that is based on the retrieval of antiviral innate and adaptive immune responses. This supports future investigation of the TLR7 agonist as an immunotherapeutic approach for achieving functional cure in patients with CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Wildum
- Roche Pharma, Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kyle E Korolowicz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Manasa Suresh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Guido Steiner
- Roche Pharma, Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lue Dai
- Roche Pharma, Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Changsuek Yon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | | | | | - Xu Huang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Xupeng Hong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Marta G Murreddu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Bhaskar V Kallakury
- Department of Pathology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - John A T Young
- Roche Pharma, Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Menne
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
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7
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Cresswell F, Asanati K, Bhagani S, Boffito M, Delpech V, Ellis J, Fox J, Furness L, Kingston M, Mansouri M, Samarawickrama A, Smithson K, Sparrowhawk A, Rafferty P, Roper T, Waters L, Rodger A, Gupta N. UK guideline for the use of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis 2021. HIV Med 2022; 23:494-545. [PMID: 35166004 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We present the updated British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) guidelines for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to HIV following sexual exposures, occupational exposures and other nonoccupational exposures in the community. This serves as an update to the 2015 BASHH guideline on PEP following sexual exposures and the 2008 Expert Advisory Group on AIDS guidelines on HIV PEP. We aim to provide evidence-based guidance on best clinical practice in the provision, monitoring and support of PEP for the prevention of HIV acquisition following sexual, occupational and other nonoccupational exposures in the community. The guideline covers when to prescribe PEP, what antiretroviral agents to use and how to manage PEP. This includes (i) evidence of PEP efficacy; (ii) evidence relating to individual-level efficacy of antiretroviral therapy to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV; (iii) data on the detectable (transmissible) prevalence of HIV in specific populations; (iv) risk of HIV transmission following different types of sexual and occupational exposure; (v) baseline risk assessment; (vi) drug regimens and dosing schedules; (vii) monitoring PEP; (viii) baseline and follow-up blood-borne virus testing; (ix) the role of PEP within broader HIV prevention strategies, for example, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The guideline also covers special scenarios such as PEP in pregnancy, breastfeeding and chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and when PEP should be considered in people using HIV PrEP. The guidelines are aimed at clinical professionals directly involved in PEP provision and other stakeholders in the field. A proforma to assist PEP consultations is included. A public consultation process was undertaken prior to finalizing the recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Cresswell
- Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK.,Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK.,Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Kaveh Asanati
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Sanjay Bhagani
- Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Marta Boffito
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK.,Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Valerie Delpech
- Department of Epidemiology, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Jayne Ellis
- Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK.,University College London, Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julie Fox
- HIV Medicine and Clinical Trials, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.,Kings College London, London, UK
| | | | - Margaret Kingston
- British Association of Sexual Health and HIV Clinical Effectiveness Group, Macclesfield, UK.,Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK.,Manchester University, Manchester, UK
| | - Massoud Mansouri
- Occupational Health, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | | | - Paul Rafferty
- Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK.,HIV Pharmacy Association Representative, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | | | - Alison Rodger
- Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nadi Gupta
- British HIV Association Guideline Committee, London, UK.,Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, Rotherham, UK
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8
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Xu H, Locarnini S, Wong D, Hammond R, Colledge D, Soppe S, Huynh T, Shaw T, Thompson AJ, Revill PA, Hogarth PM, Wines BD, Walsh R, Warner N. Role of anti-HBs in functional cure of HBeAg+ chronic hepatitis B patients infected with HBV genotype A. J Hepatol 2022; 76:34-45. [PMID: 34371070 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS HBsAg-specific antibody responses are difficult to detect during chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) and are often overlooked. The aim of this study was to examine whether anti-HBs may be involved in functional cure (FC) by profiling anti-HBs responses in patients with CHB using a panel of specific assays. METHODS Longitudinal serum samples were obtained from 25 patients with CHB who were infected with HBV genotype A and were undergoing nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) treatment: 14 achieved FC while 11 remained infected (non-FC). Anti-HBs immune complexes (HBsAg-IC), FcγRIIIa dimer binding, epitope specificity and neutralisation efficacy were measured. RESULTS HBsAg-IC peaks were detected prior to HBsAg loss in 10/14 FC patients. These HBsAg-IC peaks overlapped with either an alanine aminotransferase (ALT) flare (8/10 patients), or a rise in ALT (2/10 patients). HBsAg-IC peaks were detected in 7/11 non-FC patients, but were not associated with an ALT flare. FCγRIIIa binding was detected in 9/14 FC patients, independent from detection of overlapping HBsAg-IC/ALT peaks. FC patients had stable HBsAg epitope occupancy across the study, whereas non-FC patients had a reduction in HBsAg epitope occupancy within the first 12-24 weeks of NA treatment. Convalescent sera from FC patients recognised more HBsAg epitopes and neutralised HBV infection more potently than anti-HBs derived from vaccinees. Neutralisation potency appeared to increase post-HBsAg loss in 4/5 FC patients examined. CONCLUSIONS Using these assays, we confirm that anti-HBs responses are present and fluctuate over time in this cohort of patients with HBeAg+ CHB, who were infected with HBV genotype A and treated with NAs. Key anti-HBs profiles associated with either FC or failure to achieve FC were also identified, suggesting a role for anti-HBs responses in FC. LAY SUMMARY Using a panel of assays to characterise hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) responses in a group of patients with chronic hepatitis B, we identified anti-HBs profiles associated with either functional cure, or failure to achieve functional cure. Functional cure was associated with immune complex peaks which overlapped with alanine aminotransferase flares. Conversely, in those who did not achieve functional cure, immune complex peaks were present, but were not associated with alanine aminotransferase flares, and a decline in anti-HBs diversity was observed early during treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xu
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Locarnini
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
| | - Darren Wong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel Hammond
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
| | - Danni Colledge
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sally Soppe
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia; WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thao Huynh
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tim Shaw
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Peter A Revill
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia
| | - P Mark Hogarth
- Immune Therapies Group, Burnet Institute, Victoria, Australia; Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bruce D Wines
- Immune Therapies Group, Burnet Institute, Victoria, Australia; Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Renae Walsh
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia; ClearB Therapeutics, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nadia Warner
- Research and Molecular Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, Australia.
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9
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Suzuki F, Suzuki Y, Karino Y, Tanaka Y, Kurosaki M, Yatsuhashi H, Atarashi T, Atsukawa M, Watanabe T, Enomoto M, Kudo M, Maeda N, Kohno H, Joko K, Michitaka K, Miki K, Takahashi K, Ide T, Fujiyama S, Kohno T, Itoh H, Tsukamoto S, Suzuki Y, Kawano Y, Sugiura W, Kumada H. Switching from entecavir to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients: a phase 4, prospective study. BMC Gastroenterol 2021; 21:489. [PMID: 34930140 PMCID: PMC8686386 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-021-02008-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is widely used and recommended as first-line treatment for patients infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). However, current data are limited regarding the efficacy and safety of switching to TDF for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg)-positive patients who are virologically suppressed with another nucleos(t)ide analogue. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) reduction potential of switching from entecavir (ETV) to TDF at week 48 in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients with undetectable serum HBV-DNA. METHODS In this multicenter, single-arm, open-label, phase 4 clinical study, 75 participants currently treated with ETV 0.5 mg once daily were switched to TDF 300 mg once daily for 96 weeks. RESULTS At week 48, 3/74 participants (4%) achieved 0.25 log10 reduction of HBsAg levels from baseline (the primary endpoint). Mean HBsAg reduction was -0.14 log10 IU/mL and 12% (9/74) achieved 0.25 log10 reduction by 96 weeks. No participants achieved HBsAg seroclearance. HBsAg reduction at weeks 48 and 96 was numerically greater in participants with higher alanine aminotransferase levels (≥ 60 U/L). Seventeen participants (25%) achieved HBeAg seroclearance up to week 96. No participants experienced viral breakthrough. All drug-related adverse events (18 participants [24%]) were mild in intensity, including an increase in urine beta-2-microglobulin (15 participants [20%]). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, HBsAg reduction was limited after switching from ETV to TDF in this study population. Further investigation is warranted to better understand the clinical impact of switching from ETV to TDF. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03258710 registered August 21, 2017. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03258710?term=NCT03258710&draw=2&rank=1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumitaka Suzuki
- Toranomon Hospital Kajigaya, 1-3-1, Kajigaya, Takatsu-ku, Kawasaki-city, Kanagawa, 213-8587, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Suzuki
- Toranomon Hospital, 2-2-2, Toranomon, Minato-ku, 105-8470, Japan
| | - Yoshiyasu Karino
- Sapporo-Kosei General Hospital, 8-5, Kita 3-jo Higashi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-city, Hokkaido, 060-0033, Japan.,Keiyukai Sapporo Hospital, 1-1, Kita, Hondori 14 chome, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo-city, Hokkaido, 003-0027, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Tanaka
- Nagoya City University Hospital, 1, Aza-Kawasumi, Mizuho, Nagoya, Aichi, 467-8602, Japan.,Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kurosaki
- Musashino Red Cross Hospital, 1-26-1, Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8610, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yatsuhashi
- National Hospital Organization Nagasaki Medical Center, 2-1001-1, Kubara, Omura-city, Nagasaki, 856-8562, Japan
| | - Tomofumi Atarashi
- Obihiro-Kosei General Hospital, 10-1, Nishi 14-jo Minami, Obihiro-city, Hokkaido, 080-0024, Japan
| | - Masanori Atsukawa
- Nippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, 1715, Kamakari, Inzai-City, Chiba, 270-1694, Japan
| | - Tsunamasa Watanabe
- St. Marianna University School of Medicine Hospital, 2-16-1, Sugao, Miyamae-ku, Kawasaki-city, Kanagawa, 216-8511, Japan
| | - Masaru Enomoto
- Osaka City University Hospital, 1-5-7, Asahi-machi, Abeno-ku, Osaka-city, Osaka, 545-8586, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Kindai University Hospital, 377-2, Ohnohigashi, Osakasayama-city, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
| | - Naoto Maeda
- Sanin Rosai Hospital, 1-8-1, Kaikeshinden, Yonago-city, Tottori, 683-8605, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kohno
- National Hospital Organization Kure Medical Center and Chugoku Cancer Center, 3-1, Aoyama-cho, Kure-city, Hiroshima, 737-0023, Japan
| | - Kouji Joko
- Matsuyama Red Cross Hospital, 1, Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama-city, Ehime, 790-8524, Japan
| | - Kojiro Michitaka
- Ehime Prefectural Central Hospital, 83, Kasugamachi, Matsuyama-city, Ehime, 790-0024, Japan
| | - Koichiro Miki
- Kitakyushu City Hospital Organization Kitakyushu Municipal Medical Center, 2-1-1, Bashaku, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-city, Fukuoka, 802-0077, Japan.,Shin-Eikai Hospital, 12-11, Bentencho, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-city, Fukuoka, 803-0856, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Takahashi
- Hamanomachi Hospital, 3-3-1, Nagahama, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-city, Fukuoka, 810-8539, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Ide
- Kurume University Hospital, 67, Asahi-machi, Kurume-shi, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Shigetoshi Fujiyama
- Kumamoto Shinto General Hospital, 3-2-65, Ooe, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-city, Kumamoto, 862-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoko Kohno
- GlaxoSmithKline K.K., Akasaka Intercity AIR, 1-8-1, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Itoh
- GlaxoSmithKline K.K., Akasaka Intercity AIR, 1-8-1, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, Japan
| | - Sakiyo Tsukamoto
- GlaxoSmithKline K.K., Akasaka Intercity AIR, 1-8-1, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, Japan
| | - Yuko Suzuki
- GlaxoSmithKline K.K., Akasaka Intercity AIR, 1-8-1, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Kawano
- GlaxoSmithKline K.K., Akasaka Intercity AIR, 1-8-1, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, Japan.
| | - Wataru Sugiura
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Kumada
- Toranomon Hospital, 2-2-2, Toranomon, Minato-ku, 105-8470, Japan
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10
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Zhang Q, Cai DC, Hu P, Ren H. Low-level viremia in nucleoside analog-treated chronic hepatitis B patients. Chin Med J (Engl) 2021; 134:2810-2817. [PMID: 34759219 PMCID: PMC8668013 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000001793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Low-level viremia (LLV) was defined as persistent or intermittent episodes of detectable hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA (<2000 IU/mL, detection limit of 10 IU/mL) after 48 weeks of antiviral treatment. Effective antiviral therapies for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, such as entecavir (ETV), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), have been shown to inhibit the replication of HBV DNA and prevent liver-related complications. However, even with long-term antiviral therapy, there are still a number of patients with persistent or intermittent LLV. At present, the research on LLV to address whether adversely affect the clinical outcome is limited, and the follow-up treatment for these patients is open to question. At the same time, the mechanism of LLV is not clear. In this review, we summarize the incidence of LLV, the association between LLV and long-term outcomes, possible mechanisms, and management strategies in these patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou 550001, China
| | - Da-Chuan Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Peng Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Hong Ren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Chinese Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
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11
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Safety, tolerability and antiviral activity of the antisense oligonucleotide bepirovirsen in patients with chronic hepatitis B: a phase 2 randomized controlled trial. Nat Med 2021; 27:1725-1734. [PMID: 34642494 PMCID: PMC8516644 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-021-01513-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) leads to an increased risk of death from cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Functional cure rates are low with current treatment options (nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) and pegylated interferons). Bepirovirsen is an antisense oligonucleotide targeting all HBV messenger RNAs; in cell culture and animal models, bepirovirsen leads to reductions in HBV-derived RNAs, HBV DNA and viral proteins. This phase 2 double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial is the first evaluation of the safety and activity of an antisense oligonucleotide targeting HBV RNA in both treatment-naïve and virally suppressed individuals with chronic HBV infection. The primary objective was to assess the safety and tolerability of bepirovirsen in individuals with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) (NCT02981602). The secondary objective was to assess antiviral activity, including the change from baseline to day 29 in serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) concentration. Participants with CHB infection ≥6 months and serum HBsAg ≥50 IU ml-1 were enrolled from seven centers across Hong Kong and the Republic of Korea and randomized (3:1 within each dose cohort) to receive bepirovirsen or placebo via subcutaneous injection twice weekly during weeks 1 and 2 (days 1, 4, 8 and 11) and once weekly during weeks 3 and 4 (days 15 and 22). Participants were then followed for 26 weeks. Twenty-four participants were treatment-naïve and seven were receiving stable NA therapy. Treatment-emergent adverse events were mostly mild/moderate (most commonly injection site reactions). Eleven (61.1%) and three (50.0%) treatment-naïve participants experienced one or more treatment-emergent adverse event in the bepirovirsen and placebo groups, respectively. In participants receiving NA therapy, the corresponding numbers were three (60.0%) and one (50.0%). Transient, self-resolving alanine aminotransferase flares (≥2× upper limit of normal) were observed in eight treatment-naïve participants and three participants on stable NA regimens in the bepirovirsen treatment arms. HBsAg reductions were observed and were significant versus placebo for treatment-naïve participants receiving bepirovirsen 300 mg (P = 0.001), but not for the bepirovirsen 150 mg group (P = 0.245) or participants receiving stable NA therapy (P = 0.762). Two participants in each of the 300 mg dose groups achieved HBsAg levels below the lower limit of quantitation by day 29 (n = 3) or day 36 (n = 1). Bepirovirsen had a favorable safety profile. These preliminary observations warrant further investigation of the safety and activity of bepirovirsen in a larger CHB patient population.
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12
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Cheng Z, Lin P, Cheng N. HBV/HIV Coinfection: Impact on the Development and Clinical Treatment of Liver Diseases. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:713981. [PMID: 34676223 PMCID: PMC8524435 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.713981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a common contributor to chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Approximately 10% of people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) also have chronic HBV co-infection, owing to shared transmission routes. HIV/HBV coinfection accelerates the progression of chronic HBV to cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease, or hepatocellular carcinoma compared to chronic HBV mono-infection. HBV/HIV coinfection alters the natural history of hepatitis B and renders the antiviral treatment more complex. In this report, we conducted a critical review on the epidemiology, natural history, and pathogenesis of liver diseases related to HBV/HIV coinfection. We summarized the novel therapeutic options for these coinfected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimeng Cheng
- Department of Bile Duct Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Panpan Lin
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Nansheng Cheng
- Department of Bile Duct Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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13
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Akbar SMF, Al Mahtab M, Cesar Aguilar J, Uddin MH, Khan MSI, Yoshida O, Penton E, Gerardo GN, Hiasa Y. Exploring evidence-based innovative therapy for the treatment of chronic HBV infection: experimental and clinical. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2021.00058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advent of various vaccines and antimicrobial agents during the 20th century, the control and containment of infectious diseases appeared to be a matter of time. However, studies unveiled the diverse natures of microbes, their lifestyle, and pathogenetic potentials. Since the ground-breaking discovery of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) by Baruch Blumberg and the subsequent development of a vaccine in the early 1980s, the main task of the scientific community has been to develop a proper management strategy for HBV-induced chronic liver diseases. In the early 1980’s, standard interferon (IFN) induced a reduction of HBV DNA levels, followed by the normalization of serum transaminases (alanine aminotransferase, ALT), in some chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. However, in the course of time, the limitations of standard IFN became evident, and the search for an alternative began. In the late 1980’s, nucleoside analogs entered the arena of CHB treatment as oral drugs with potent antiviral capacities. At the beginning of the 21st century, insights were developed into the scope and limitations of standard IFN, pegylated-IFN as well as nucleoside analogs for treating CHB. Considering the non-cytopathic nature of the HBV, the presence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in the nucleus of the infected hepatocytes and HBV-induced immune-mediated liver damages, a new field of CHB management was initiated by modulating the hosts’ immune system through immune therapy. This review will discuss the nature and design of innovative immune therapy for CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh Mohammad Fazle Akbar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime 7910295, Japan
| | - Mamun Al Mahtab
- Department of Hepatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Julio Cesar Aguilar
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Havana 10600, Cuba
| | | | - Md. Sakirul Islam Khan
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime 7910295, Japan
| | - Osamu Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime 7910295, Japan
| | - Eduardo Penton
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Havana 10600, Cuba
| | | | - Yoichi Hiasa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime 7910295, Japan
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14
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Korolowicz KE, Suresh M, Li B, Huang X, Yon C, Kallakury BV, Lee KP, Park S, Kim YW, Menne S. Combination Treatment with the Vimentin-Targeting Antibody hzVSF and Tenofovir Suppresses Woodchuck Hepatitis Virus Infection in Woodchucks. Cells 2021; 10:2321. [PMID: 34571970 PMCID: PMC8466705 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Current treatment options for patients infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) are suboptimal, because the approved drugs rarely induce cure due to the persistence of the viral DNA genome in the nucleus of infected hepatocytes, and are associated with either severe side effects (pegylated interferon-alpha) or require life-long administration (nucleos(t)ide analogs). We report here the evaluation of the safety and therapeutic efficacy of a novel, humanized antibody (hzVSF) in the woodchuck model of HBV infection. hzVSF has been shown to act as a viral entry inhibitor, most likely by suppressing vimentin-mediated endocytosis of virions. Targeting the increased vimentin expression on liver cells by hzVSF after infection with HBV or woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) was demonstrated initially. Thereafter, hzVSF safety was assessed in eight woodchucks naïve for WHV infection. Antiviral efficacy of hzVSF was evaluated subsequently in 24 chronic WHV carrier woodchucks by monotreatment with three ascending doses and in combination with tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF). Consistent with the proposed blocking of WHV reinfection, intravenous hzVSF administration for 12 weeks resulted in a modest but transient reduction of viral replication and associated liver inflammation. In combination with oral TAF dosing, the antiviral effect of hzVSF was enhanced and sustained in half of the woodchucks with an antibody response to viral proteins. Thus, hzVSF safely but modestly alters chronic WHV infection in woodchucks; however, as a combination partner to TAF, its antiviral efficacy is markedly increased. The results of this preclinical study support future evaluation of this novel anti-HBV drug in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle E. Korolowicz
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA; (K.E.K.); (M.S.); (B.L.); (X.H.); (C.Y.)
| | - Manasa Suresh
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA; (K.E.K.); (M.S.); (B.L.); (X.H.); (C.Y.)
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA; (K.E.K.); (M.S.); (B.L.); (X.H.); (C.Y.)
| | - Xu Huang
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA; (K.E.K.); (M.S.); (B.L.); (X.H.); (C.Y.)
| | - Changsuek Yon
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA; (K.E.K.); (M.S.); (B.L.); (X.H.); (C.Y.)
| | - Bhaskar V. Kallakury
- Department of Pathology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA;
| | - Kyoung-pil Lee
- ImmuneMed, Inc., Chuncheon BioTown, Soyanggang ro 32, Chuncheon-si 24232, Gangwon-do, Korea; (K.-p.L.); (S.P.); (Y.-W.K.)
| | - Sungman Park
- ImmuneMed, Inc., Chuncheon BioTown, Soyanggang ro 32, Chuncheon-si 24232, Gangwon-do, Korea; (K.-p.L.); (S.P.); (Y.-W.K.)
| | - Yoon-Won Kim
- ImmuneMed, Inc., Chuncheon BioTown, Soyanggang ro 32, Chuncheon-si 24232, Gangwon-do, Korea; (K.-p.L.); (S.P.); (Y.-W.K.)
| | - Stephan Menne
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA; (K.E.K.); (M.S.); (B.L.); (X.H.); (C.Y.)
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15
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Bazinet M, Pântea V, Placinta G, Moscalu I, Cebotarescu V, Cojuhari L, Jimbei P, Iarovoi L, Smesnoi V, Musteata T, Jucov A, Dittmer U, Krawczyk A, Vaillant A. Benefit of transaminase elevations in establishing functional cure of HBV infection during nap-based combination therapy. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:817-825. [PMID: 33556206 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of HBV infection with nucleic acid polymers and pegIFN is accompanied by transaminase elevations in 95% of participants. HBV viral rebound, partial cure (HBV DNA < 2000 IU/mL, normal ALT) or functional cure (HBV DNA target not detected, HBsAg <LLOQ, normal ALT) occurred in 27%, 38% and 35% of participants. Correlations between ALT, AST and GGT elevations, virologic baseline, response during therapy and HBV therapeutic outcome were investigated. A retrospective analysis of all 40 participants in the REP 401 study (NCT02565719) included maxima and area under the curve for ALT, AST and GGT, baseline virology, HBsAg and anti-HBs response and HBV therapeutic outcomes. ALT, AST and GGT elevations were asymptomatic, independent of baseline virologic status and anti-HBs response but correlated with HBsAg reduction ≥3 log10 from baseline. Functional cure was associated with significantly lower HBsAg during the nadir of ALT flares versus viral rebound or partial cure. ALT elevations >3X ULN while HBsAg was <1 IU/mL occurred in 3/11 (27%), 11/15 (74%) and 14/14 (100%) of participants experiencing viral rebound, partial or functional cure. ALT elevation >3X ULN during HBsAg <1 IU/mL and <10 IU/mL were the best predictors of partial and functional cure. In conclusion, elevations in ALT, AST or GGT while HBsAg <10 IU/ml during therapy with REP 2139 + pegIFN are associated with partial and functional cure. More potent HBsAg reduction during flare nadir is associated with the establishment of functional cure, suggesting a critical role for HBsAg-specific immunity to achieve this outcome. These on-therapy milestones may have similar positive prognostic value with other combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victor Pântea
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Gheorghe Placinta
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Iurie Moscalu
- ARENSIA Exploratory Medicine, Republican Clinical Hospital Chișinău, Moldova
| | - Valentin Cebotarescu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Lilia Cojuhari
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Pavlina Jimbei
- Toma Ciorbă Infectious Clinical Hospital, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Liviu Iarovoi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Valentina Smesnoi
- Toma Ciorbă Infectious Clinical Hospital, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Tatiana Musteata
- Toma Ciorbă Infectious Clinical Hospital, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Alina Jucov
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova.,ARENSIA Exploratory Medicine, Republican Clinical Hospital Chișinău, Moldova
| | - Ulf Dittmer
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Adalbert Krawczyk
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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16
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Transaminase Elevations during Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B Infection: Safety Considerations and Role in Achieving Functional Cure. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050745. [PMID: 33922828 PMCID: PMC8146791 DOI: 10.3390/v13050745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
While current therapies for chronic HBV infection work well to control viremia and stop the progression of liver disease, the preferred outcome of therapy is the restoration of immune control of HBV infection, allowing therapy to be removed while maintaining effective suppression of infection and reversal of liver damage. This “functional cure” of chronic HBV infection is characterized by the absence of detectable viremia (HBV DNA) and antigenemia (HBsAg) and normal liver function and is the goal of new therapies in development. Functional cure requires removal of the ability of infected cells in the liver to produce the hepatitis B surface antigen. The increased observation of transaminase elevations with new therapies makes understanding the safety and therapeutic impact of these flares an increasingly important issue. This review examines the factors driving the appearance of transaminase elevations during therapy of chronic HBV infection and the interplay of these factors in assessing the safety and beneficial nature of these flares.
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17
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Yoshikawa S, Yoshio S, Yoshida Y, Tsutsui Y, Kawai H, Yamazoe T, Mori T, Osawa Y, Sugiyama M, Iwamoto M, Watashi K, Kawaguchi T, Akita T, Tanaka J, Kikuchi Y, Mizokami M, Oka S, Kanto T, Gatanaga H. Impact of Immune Reconstitution-Induced Hepatic Flare on Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Loss in Hepatitis B Virus/Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Coinfected Patients. J Infect Dis 2020; 223:2080-2089. [PMID: 33073291 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss is an ideal goal for chronic hepatitis B patients. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) in hepatitis B virus/human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HBV/HIV-1)-coinfected patients can lead to hepatic flare (HF) caused by immune reconstitution-induced inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Here, we investigated the impact of IRIS-HF on HBsAg loss. METHODS This was a retrospective study of 58 HBV/HIV-1-coinfected subjects HBsAg-positive for ≥6 months before ART initiation and followed for ≥1 year (median 9.9 years) after ART initiation. We examined humoral factors in sera from healthy volunteers, HIV-monoinfected patients, and HBV/HIV-1-coinfected patients with IRIS-HF or acute hepatitis B infection. RESULTS During ART, HBsAg loss was observed in 20 of 58 HBV/HIV-1-coinfected patients (34.5%). Of the 58 patients, 15 (25.9%) developed IRIS-HF within 12 months of ART initiation. HBsAg loss was more frequent among patients who developed IRIS-HF (11/15, 73.3%) than those who did not (9/43, 20.9%). Multivariate analysis showed IRIS-HF was an independent predictor of subsequent HBsAg loss. Younger age and higher baseline HBV DNA titer were associated with IRIS-HF. Elevation of sCD163, not CXCL9, CXC10, CXCXL11, or CXCL13, was observed at IRIS-HF. CONCLUSIONS IRIS-HF was associated with HBsAg loss in HBV/HIV-1-coinfected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiori Yoshikawa
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Sachiyo Yoshio
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Yuichi Yoshida
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Yuriko Tsutsui
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Hironari Kawai
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Taiji Yamazoe
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Taizo Mori
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Yosuke Osawa
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Masaya Sugiyama
- Genome Medical Sciences Project, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Masashi Iwamoto
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Watashi
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takumi Kawaguchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Akita
- Department of Epidemiology, Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Junko Tanaka
- Department of Epidemiology, Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Kikuchi
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Mizokami
- Genome Medical Sciences Project, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Shinichi Oka
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kanto
- Department of Liver Disease, Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Gatanaga
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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18
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Efficacy and Safety of Tenofovir in the Prevention of Perinatal Transmission of Hepatitis B, a Meta-Analysis. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2020; 43:640-648. [PMID: 32948358 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2020.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is recommended for the prevention of perinatal transmission of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This study aimed to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of TDF in pregnant women with chronic HBV and their infants. MATERIAL AND METHODS Database searches were performed to identify studies blocking the mother-to-child transmission of the hepatitis B virus with tenofovir. The search included pregnant women with chronic HBV infection administered with TDF compared to the no treatment controls, and data from individual studies were pooled using RevMan v5.3 for meta-analysis. RESULTS Seven studies with a total of 911 patients met the inclusion criteria: 433 patients in the TDF group and 478 patients in the non-TDF group. The HBV mother-to-child transmission rate in the tenofovir group was effectively reduced compared to the control group (RR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.08-0.40). HBV-DNA positivity was also significantly low in infants from TDF group (RR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.10-0.30) and the TDF treatment resulted in significantly higher anti-HBs production (RR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.04-1.18). Similarly, maternal HBV-DNA was suppression was significantly high in the TDF group (RR: 34.16, 95% CI: 16.40-71.13). Women treated with TDF and their infants did not result in serious adverse events that are statistically different as compared to the women who did not receive any treatment. CONCLUSION Treatment of HBV infected pregnant women with TDF can effectively and safely prevent the perinatal transmission of chronic hepatitis B.
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Menne S, Wildum S, Steiner G, Suresh M, Korolowicz K, Balarezo M, Yon C, Murreddu M, Hong X, Kallakury BV, Tucker R, Yang S, Young JAT, Javanbakht H. Efficacy of an Inhibitor of Hepatitis B Virus Expression in Combination With Entecavir and Interferon-α in Woodchucks Chronically Infected With Woodchuck Hepatitis Virus. Hepatol Commun 2020; 4:916-931. [PMID: 32490326 PMCID: PMC7262289 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RG7834 is a small‐molecule inhibitor of hepatitis B virus (HBV) gene expression that significantly reduces the levels of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBV DNA in a humanized liver HBV mouse model. In the current study, we evaluated the potency of RG7834 in the woodchuck model of chronic HBV infection, alone and in combination with entecavir (ETV) and/or woodchuck interferon‐α (wIFN‐α). RG7834 reduced woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) surface antigen (WHsAg) by a mean of 2.57 log10 from baseline and WHV DNA by a mean of 1.71 log10. ETV + wIFN‐α reduced WHsAg and WHV DNA by means of 2.40 log10 and 6.70 log10, respectively. The combination of RG7834, ETV, and wIFN‐α profoundly reduced WHsAg and WHV DNA levels by 5.00 log10 and 7.46 log10, respectively. However, both viral parameters rebounded to baseline after treatment was stopped and no antibody response against WHsAg was observed. Effects on viral RNAs were mainly seen with the triple combination treatment, reducing both pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) and WHsAg RNA, whereas RG7834 mainly reduced WHsAg RNA and ETV mainly affected pgRNA. When WHsAg was reduced by the triple combination, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) proliferated significantly in response to viral antigens, but the cellular response was diminished after WHsAg returned to baseline levels during the off‐treatment period. Consistent with this, Pearson correlation revealed a strong negative correlation between WHsAg levels and PBMC proliferation in response to peptides covering the entire WHsAg and WHV nucleocapsid antigen. Conclusion: A fast and robust reduction of WHsAg by combination therapy reduced WHV‐specific immune dysfunction in the periphery. However, the magnitude and/or duration of the induced cellular response were not sufficient to achieve a sustained antiviral response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Menne
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC
| | - Steffen Wildum
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel Basel Switzerland
| | - Guido Steiner
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel Basel Switzerland
| | - Manasa Suresh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC
| | - Kyle Korolowicz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC
| | - Maria Balarezo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC
| | - Changsuek Yon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC
| | - Marta Murreddu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC
| | - Xupeng Hong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC
| | | | - Robin Tucker
- Department of Pharmacology Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC
| | - Song Yang
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Shanghai Shanghai China
| | - John A T Young
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel Basel Switzerland
| | - Hassan Javanbakht
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel Basel Switzerland
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20
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Walsh R, Hammond R, Yuen L, Deerain J, O'Donnell T, Leary T, Cloherty G, Gaggar A, Kitrinos K, Subramanian M, Wong D, Locarnini S. Predicting HBsAg clearance in genotype A chronic hepatitis B using HBsAg epitope profiling: A biomarker for functional cure. Liver Int 2019; 39:2066-2076. [PMID: 31379058 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14207] [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] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Functional cure is the major goal of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) therapy though few biomarkers predict this outcome. HBsAg epitope occupancy can be influenced by therapeutic and immune pressure. The aim of this study was to map the HBsAg epitope profiles during long-term nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy in patients with genotype A CHB, in the context of HBsAg loss (SL)/seroconversion. METHODS We evaluated 25 genotype A CHB patients in the GS-US-174-0103 trial of HBeAg-positive CHB patients treated with tenofovir or adefovir for 4 years, 14 who achieved SL whilst 11 had no change. We epitope mapped the major domains of HBsAg to identify those patients with HBsAg clearance profile (CP) (loss of binding at both loops 1 and 2 epitopes of the 'a' determinant) vs non-clearance profile (no change in epitope recognition, or loss of epitope binding at one loop only), correlating this to on-treatment HBsAg responses. Complexed anti-HBs was also measured. RESULTS Analysis of the HBsAg epitope profiles of the 25 patients at baseline identified no predictive correlation with SL. In contrast, analysis at week 48 and end of study (week 192) or prior to SL identified significant predictive associations between development of HBsAg CPs and outcome of functional cure. The detection of a CP also correlated with the development of an alanine aminotransferase flare and detection of anti-HBs complexed with HBsAg. CONCLUSION The detection of HBsAg CPs by epitope mapping represents a novel viral biomarker, reflecting an emerging anti-HBs selection pressure prior to functional cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renae Walsh
- Division of Molecular Research and Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel Hammond
- Division of Molecular Research and Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lilly Yuen
- Division of Molecular Research and Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joshua Deerain
- Division of Molecular Research and Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tanya O'Donnell
- Division of Molecular Research and Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Anuj Gaggar
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, California, USA
| | | | | | - Darren Wong
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Locarnini
- Division of Molecular Research and Development, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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21
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Wu Y, Gao C, Cai S, Xia M, Liao G, Zhang X, Peng J. Circulating miR-122 Is a Predictor for Virological Response in CHB Patients With High Viral Load Treated With Nucleos(t)ide Analogs. Front Genet 2019; 10:243. [PMID: 30967899 PMCID: PMC6440383 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection remains worldwide health problem. Antiviral treatment options for CHB patients include nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) and interferon. Most of the current biomarkers for predicting treatment response are virus-dependent. MicroRNA-122 is the most abundant liver-specific miRNA and has been identified involved in multiple liver physiology and pathology including hepatotropic virus infection. To identify the role of miR-122 in NA therapy, 80 CHB patients with high viral load (HVL) were enrolled and serum miR-122 levels at baseline, week 12 and week 24 were measured. Serum miR-122 levels were significantly lower in patients who developed virological response (VR), compared with non-VR group. Levels of miR-122 at week 12 and week 24 were determined to be independent prognostic indicators for a VR with satisfactory AUROC values at 0.812 and 0.800, respectively. During NA therapy, serum miR-122 level deceased steadily and an earlier reduction was observed in VR group, indicating early reduction of miR-122 level might increase the possibility of developing virological response. In conclusion, we identified the dynamic change of serum miR-122 level and miR-122 levels at week 12 and week 24 as independent predictors for VR in CHB patients with HVL treated with NAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaohang Cai
- Department of Pathology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Muye Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guichan Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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22
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Vaillant A. Should alanine aminotransferase flares mean stopping antiviral therapy in patients with cirrhosis? THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 19:221-222. [PMID: 30833048 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(18)30686-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
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