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Allweiss L, Volmari A, Suri V, Wallin JJ, Flaherty JF, Manuilov D, Downie B, Lütgehetmann M, Bockmann JH, Urban S, Wedemeyer H, Dandri M. Blocking viral entry with bulevirtide reduces the number of HDV-infected hepatocytes in human liver biopsies. J Hepatol 2024; 80:882-891. [PMID: 38340811 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Bulevirtide (BLV) is a first-in-class entry inhibitor and the only approved treatment for patients chronically infected with HDV in Europe. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of BLV treatment in paired liver biopsies obtained at baseline and after 24 or 48 weeks of treatment. METHODS We performed a combined analysis of 126 paired liver biopsies derived from three clinical trials. In the phase II clinical trial MYR202, patients with chronic hepatitis D were randomised to receive 24 weeks of BLV at 2 mg, 5 mg or 10 mg/day. Patients in MYR203 (phase II) and MYR301 (phase III) received 48 weeks of BLV at 2 mg or 10 mg/day. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate monotherapy or delayed treatment served as comparators. Virological parameters and infection-related host genes were assessed by qPCR and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS At week 24, median intrahepatic HDV RNA decline from baseline was 0.9Log10 with 2 mg (n = 7), 1.1Log10 with 5 mg (n = 5) and 1.4 Log10 with 10 mg (n = 7) of BLV. At week 48, median reductions were 2.2Log10 with 2 mg (n = 27) and 2.7Log10 with 10 mg (n = 37) of BLV, while HDV RNA levels did not change in the comparator arms. Notably, a drastic decline in the number of hepatitis delta antigen-positive hepatocytes and a concomitant decrease in transcriptional levels of inflammatory chemokines and interferon-stimulated genes was determined in all BLV-treatment arms. Despite the abundance of HBsAg-positive hepatocytes, replication and covalently closed circular DNA levels of the helper virus HBV were low and remained unaffected by BLV treatment. CONCLUSION Blocking viral entry diminishes signs of liver inflammation and promotes a strong reduction of HDV infection within the liver, thus suggesting that some patients may achieve HDV cure with long-term treatment. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Chronic infection with HDV causes the most severe form of viral hepatitis, affecting approximately 12 million people worldwide. The entry inhibitor bulevirtide (BLV) is the only recently approved anti-HDV drug, which has proven efficacious and safe in clinical trials and real-word data. Here, we investigated paired liver biopsies at baseline and after 24 or 48 weeks of treatment from three clinical trials to understand the effect of the drug on viral and host parameters in the liver, the site of viral replication. We found that BLV treatment strongly reduces the number of HDV-infected cells and signs of liver inflammation. This data implies that blocking viral entry ameliorates liver inflammation and that prolonged treatment regimens might lead to HDV cure in some patients. This concept will guide the further development of therapeutic strategies and combination treatments for patients with CHD. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBERS NCT03546621, NCT02888106, NCT03852719.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Allweiss
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hannover, Heidelberg and Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Partner Sites, Germany
| | - Annika Volmari
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hannover, Heidelberg and Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Partner Sites, Germany
| | - Jan-Hendrik Bockmann
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hannover, Heidelberg and Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Partner Sites, Germany
| | - Stephan Urban
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hannover, Heidelberg and Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Partner Sites, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hannover, Heidelberg and Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Partner Sites, Germany
| | - Maura Dandri
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hannover, Heidelberg and Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Partner Sites, Germany.
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Woo Y, Ma M, Okawa M, Saito T. Hepatocyte Intrinsic Innate Antiviral Immunity against Hepatitis Delta Virus Infection: The Voices of Bona Fide Human Hepatocytes. Viruses 2024; 16:740. [PMID: 38793622 PMCID: PMC11126147 DOI: 10.3390/v16050740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of viral infection is attributed to two folds: intrinsic cell death pathway activation due to the viral cytopathic effect, and immune-mediated extrinsic cellular injuries. The immune system, encompassing both innate and adaptive immunity, therefore acts as a double-edged sword in viral infection. Insufficient potency permits pathogens to establish lifelong persistent infection and its consequences, while excessive activation leads to organ damage beyond its mission to control viral pathogens. The innate immune response serves as the front line of defense against viral infection, which is triggered through the recognition of viral products, referred to as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), by host cell pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). The PRRs-PAMPs interaction results in the induction of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in infected cells, as well as the secretion of interferons (IFNs), to establish a tissue-wide antiviral state in an autocrine and paracrine manner. Cumulative evidence suggests significant variability in the expression patterns of PRRs, the induction potency of ISGs and IFNs, and the IFN response across different cell types and species. Hence, in our understanding of viral hepatitis pathogenesis, insights gained through hepatoma cell lines or murine-based experimental systems are uncertain in precisely recapitulating the innate antiviral response of genuine human hepatocytes. Accordingly, this review article aims to extract and summarize evidence made possible with bona fide human hepatocytes-based study tools, along with their clinical relevance and implications, as well as to identify the remaining gaps in knowledge for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yein Woo
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Muyuan Ma
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Masashi Okawa
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- R&D Department, PhoenixBio USA Corporation, New York, NY 10006, USA
| | - Takeshi Saito
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- USC Research Center for Liver Diseases, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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Blanchet M, Angelo L, Tétreault Y, Khabir M, Sureau C, Vaillant A, Labonté P. HepG2BD: A Novel and Versatile Cell Line with Inducible HDV Replication and Constitutive HBV Expression. Viruses 2024; 16:532. [PMID: 38675875 PMCID: PMC11053718 DOI: 10.3390/v16040532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Individuals chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis Delta virus (HDV) present an increased risk of developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in comparison to HBV mono-infected individuals. Although HDV only replicates in individuals coinfected or superinfected with HBV, there is currently no in vitro model that can stably express both viruses simultaneously, mimicking the chronic infections seen in HBV/HDV patients. Here, we present the HepG2BD cell line as a novel in vitro culture system for long-term replication of HBV and HDV. HepG2BD cells derive from HepG2.2.15 cells in which a 2 kb HDV cDNA sequence was inserted into the adeno-associated virus safe harbor integration site 1 (AAVS1) using CRISPR-Cas9. A Tet-Off promoter was placed 5' of the genomic HDV sequence for reliable initiation/repression of viral replication and secretion. HBV and HDV replication were then thoroughly characterized. Of note, non-dividing cells adopt a hepatocyte-like morphology associated with an increased production of both HDV and HBV virions. Finally, HDV seems to negatively interfere with HBV in this model system. Altogether, HepG2BD cells will be instrumental to evaluate, in vitro, the fundamental HBV-HDV interplay during simultaneous chronic replication as well as for antivirals screening targeting both viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Blanchet
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada; (L.A.); (Y.T.); (M.K.)
- Replicor Inc., Montréal, QC H4P 2R2, Canada;
| | - Léna Angelo
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada; (L.A.); (Y.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Yasmine Tétreault
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada; (L.A.); (Y.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Marwa Khabir
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada; (L.A.); (Y.T.); (M.K.)
| | | | | | - Patrick Labonté
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada; (L.A.); (Y.T.); (M.K.)
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Beghin J, Meier-Stephenson V. Does hepatitis delta virus have a preference for hepatitis B virus genotype? A systematic review of the literature. J Viral Hepat 2023; 30:906-913. [PMID: 37786351 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a deficient virus that requires the surface proteins of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) to complete its replication. HDV is thus only found in those already infected with HBV (~5% worldwide). There are eight different HDV genotypes (1-8) and 10 HBV genotypes (A-J), each having fairly distinct geographic distributions. While their pairings may be coincidental based on epidemiological occurrence, some evidence exists regarding possible virologic basis for genotype dominance and patterns. Here we sought to determine which HBV genotype is most often linked with active HDV infection and speculate on whether this may represent a viral 'preference'. Electronic databases with OVID Medline were comprehensively searched for studies published between 1977 and 2022 indexing the word 'genotype' and all permutations of 'HDV' (hepatitis D virus, hepatitis delta, etc.). Primary studies of patient samples reporting genotype data for either or both of HDV and HBV were tabulated. The initial search revealed 419 articles and was narrowed to 133 studies reporting genotype data for either or both HBV and HDV. We limited our search to cases with detectable HDV RNA. These represented over 5800 samples from over 70 countries. Of these, 1947 samples had paired genotype data for both viruses. The most common pairing was HDV-1 with HBV-D, but it remains unclear whether this represents a viral 'preference' or mere co-endemicity of the two viruses. Determining if there is a virologic link between HBV and HDV genotypes may have important implications for emerging HDV and HBV research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Beghin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Vanessa Meier-Stephenson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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5
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Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) only infects patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) due to its reliance on HBV surface proteins to form its envelope. With shared routes of transmission, HDV coinfection is estimated to occur in 15% of patients with HIV and HBV. However, HDV is often underdiagnosed and may be missed particularly in people living with HIV (PLWH) who are already on antiretroviral therapy with anti-HBV activity and coincidental HBV suppression. At the same time, HDV causes the most severe form of chronic viral hepatitis and leads to faster progression of liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. Thus, increased recognition and effective treatment are paramount, and as novel treatment options approach global markets, the study of their efficacy in PLWH should be pursued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra W Yen
- Division of Digestive Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Vicente Soriano
- Health Sciences School & Medical Center, Universidad Internacional La Rioja (UNIR), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Barreiro
- Public Health Regional Laboratory, Hospital Isabel Zendal, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Kenneth E Sherman
- Division of Digestive Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
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6
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Zi J, Li YH, Wang XM, Xu HQ, Liu WH, Cui JY, Niu JQ, Chi XM. Hepatitis D virus dual-infection among Chinese hepatitis B patient related to hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B virus DNA and age. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:5395-5405. [PMID: 37900584 PMCID: PMC10600800 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i38.5395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The screening practices for hepatitis D virus (HDV) are diverse and non-standardized worldwide, and the exact prevalence of HDV is uncertain. AIM To estimate HDV prevalence and investigate viral marker quantity trends in patients with hepatitis D. METHODS We collected 5594 serum samples from patients with hepatitis B in Jilin Province, China (3293 males and 2301 females, age range of 2 to 89 years). We then conducted tests for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B Virus (HBV) DNA, anti-hepatitis D antigen (HDAg), and HDV RNA. RESULTS We found that the prevalence of anti-HDAg and HDV RNA among hepatitis B patient were 3.6% (3.2-4.2%) and 1.2% (0.9-1.5%), respectively, 87.69% of hepatitis D patients were 51-70 years old. HDV infection screening positive rate of patients with HBV DNA levels below 2000 IU/mL (2.0%) was higher than those above 2000 IU/mL (0.2%). Among anti-HDAg positive patients, the HDV RNA positive rate was positively correlated with the HBsAg level and anti-HDAg level. There was a weak correlation between HBsAg and anti-HDAg levels among hepatitis D patients. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the importance of considering multiple factors when assessing the severity of HDV infection, comprehensive evaluation of patients' clinical and laboratory parameters is necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zi
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Center for Pathogen Biology and Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130061, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yu-Huan Li
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Center for Pathogen Biology and Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130061, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Center for Pathogen Biology and Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130061, Jilin Province, China
| | - Hong-Qin Xu
- Department of Hepatology, Center for Pathogen Biology and Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130061, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wen-Hui Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130061, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jia-Yue Cui
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130061, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jun-Qi Niu
- Department of Hepatology, Center for Pathogen Biology and Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130061, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xiu-Mei Chi
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Center for Pathogen Biology and Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130061, Jilin Province, China
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7
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Thiyagarajah K, Basic M, Hildt E. Cellular Factors Involved in the Hepatitis D Virus Life Cycle. Viruses 2023; 15:1687. [PMID: 37632029 PMCID: PMC10459925 DOI: 10.3390/v15081687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus with a negative-strand RNA genome encompassing less than 1700 nucleotides. The HDV genome encodes only for one protein, the hepatitis delta antigen (HDAg), which exists in two forms acting as nucleoproteins. HDV depends on the envelope proteins of the hepatitis B virus as a helper virus for packaging its ribonucleoprotein complex (RNP). HDV is considered the causative agent for the most severe form of viral hepatitis leading to liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Many steps of the life cycle of HDV are still enigmatic. This review gives an overview of the complete life cycle of HDV and identifies gaps in knowledge. The focus is on the description of cellular factors being involved in the life cycle of HDV and the deregulation of cellular pathways by HDV with respect to their relevance for viral replication, morphogenesis and HDV-associated pathogenesis. Moreover, recent progress in antiviral strategies targeting cellular structures is summarized in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eberhard Hildt
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, Department of Virology, D-63225 Langen, Germany; (K.T.); (M.B.)
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8
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Brunetto MR, Ricco G, Negro F, Wedemeyer H, Yurdaydin C, Asselah T, Papatheodoridis G, Gheorghe L, Agarwal K, Farci P, Buti M. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on hepatitis delta virus. J Hepatol 2023; 79:433-460. [PMID: 37364791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a defective virus that requires the hepatitis B virus to complete its life cycle and cause liver damage in humans. HDV is responsible for rare acute and chronic liver diseases and is considered the most aggressive hepatitis virus. Acute infection can cause acute liver failure, while persistent infection typically causes a severe form of chronic hepatitis which is associated with rapid and frequent progression to cirrhosis and its end-stage complications, hepatic decompensation and hepatocellular carcinoma. Major diagnostic and therapeutic innovations prompted the EASL Governing Board to commission specific Clinical Practice Guidelines on the identification, virologic and clinical characterisation, prognostic assessment, and appropriate clinical and therapeutic management of HDV-infected individuals.
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Giosa D, Lombardo D, Musolino C, Chines V, Raffa G, Casuscelli di Tocco F, D'Aliberti D, Caminiti G, Saitta C, Alibrandi A, Aiese Cigliano R, Romeo O, Navarra G, Raimondo G, Pollicino T. Mitochondrial DNA is a target of HBV integration. Commun Biol 2023; 6:684. [PMID: 37400627 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05017-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) may integrate into the genome of infected cells and contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis. However, the role of HBV integration in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development remains unclear. In this study, we apply a high-throughput HBV integration sequencing approach that allows sensitive identification of HBV integration sites and enumeration of integration clones. We identify 3339 HBV integration sites in paired tumour and non-tumour tissue samples from 7 patients with HCC. We detect 2107 clonally expanded integrations (1817 in tumour and 290 in non-tumour tissues), and a significant enrichment of clonal HBV integrations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) preferentially occurring in the oxidative phosphorylation genes (OXPHOS) and D-loop region. We also find that HBV RNA sequences are imported into the mitochondria of hepatoma cells with the involvement of polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPASE), and that HBV RNA might have a role in the process of HBV integration into mtDNA. Our results suggest a potential mechanism by which HBV integration may contribute to HCC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Giosa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Lombardo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Cristina Musolino
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Department of Human Pathology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Valeria Chines
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Raffa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Casuscelli di Tocco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Deborah D'Aliberti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Caminiti
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Carlo Saitta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Orazio Romeo
- Department of ChiBioFarAm, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Navarra
- Department of Human Pathology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Raimondo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Teresa Pollicino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy.
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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10
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Chida T, Ishida Y, Morioka S, Sugahara G, Han C, Lam B, Yamasaki C, Sugahara R, Li M, Tanaka Y, Liang TJ, Tateno C, Saito T. Persistent hepatic IFN system activation in HBV-HDV infection determines viral replication dynamics and therapeutic response. JCI Insight 2023; 8:162404. [PMID: 37154158 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.162404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV), a satellite virus of HBV, is regarded as the most severe type of hepatitis virus because of the substantial morbidity and mortality. The IFN system is the first line of defense against viral infections and an essential element of antiviral immunity; however, the role of the hepatic IFN system in controlling HBV-HDV infection remains poorly understood. Herein, we showed that HDV infection of human hepatocytes induced a potent and persistent activation of the IFN system whereas HBV was inert in triggering hepatic antiviral response. Moreover, we demonstrated that HDV-induced constitutive activation of the hepatic IFN system resulted in a potent suppression of HBV while modestly inhibiting HDV. Thus, these pathogens are equipped with distinctive immunogenicity and varying sensitivity to the antiviral effectors of IFN, leading to the establishment of a paradoxical mode of viral interference wherein HDV, the superinfectant, outcompetes HBV, the primary pathogen. Furthermore, our study revealed that HDV-induced constitutive IFN system activation led to a state of IFN refractoriness, rendering therapeutic IFNs ineffective. The present study provides potentially novel insights into the role of the hepatic IFN system in regulating HBV-HDV infection dynamics and its therapeutic implications through elucidating the molecular basis underlying the inefficacy of IFN-based antiviral strategies against HBV-HDV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Chida
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yuji Ishida
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California, USA
- PhoenixBio, Co., Ltd., Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Sho Morioka
- PhoenixBio, Co., Ltd., Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Go Sugahara
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California, USA
- PhoenixBio, Co., Ltd., Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Christine Han
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Bill Lam
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Remi Sugahara
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Meng Li
- Bioinformatics Service, Norris Medical Library, USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yasuhito Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - T Jake Liang
- Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Chise Tateno
- PhoenixBio, Co., Ltd., Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Saito
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology
- Department of Pathology, and
- USC Research Center for Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
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11
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Lucifora J, Alfaiate D, Pons C, Michelet M, Ramirez R, Fusil F, Amirache F, Rossi A, Legrand AF, Charles E, Vegna S, Farhat R, Rivoire M, Passot G, Gadot N, Testoni B, Bach C, Baumert TF, Hyrina A, Beran RK, Zoulim F, Boonstra A, Büning H, Verrier ER, Cosset FL, Fletcher SP, Salvetti A, Durantel D. Hepatitis D virus interferes with hepatitis B virus RNA production via interferon-dependent and -independent mechanisms. J Hepatol 2023; 78:958-970. [PMID: 36702177 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Chronic coinfection with HBV and HDV leads to the most aggressive form of chronic viral hepatitis. Herein, we aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the widely reported observation that HDV interferes with HBV in most coinfected patients. METHODS Patient liver tissues, primary human hepatocytes, HepaRG cells and human liver chimeric mice were used to analyze the effect of HDV on HBV using virological and RNA-sequencing analyses, as well as RNA synthesis, stability and association assays. RESULTS Transcriptomic analyses in cell culture and mouse models of coinfection enabled us to define an HDV-induced signature, mainly composed of interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes (ISGs). We also provide evidence that ISGs are upregulated in chronically HDV/HBV-coinfected patients but not in cells that only express HDV antigen (HDAg). Inhibition of the hepatocyte IFN response partially rescued the levels of HBV parameters. We observed less HBV RNA synthesis upon HDV infection or HDV protein expression. Additionally, HDV infection or expression of HDAg alone specifically accelerated the decay of HBV RNA, and HDAg was associated with HBV RNAs. On the contrary, HDAg expression did not affect other viruses such as HCV or SARS-CoV-2. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that HDV interferes with HBV through both IFN-dependent and IFN-independent mechanisms. Specifically, we uncover a new viral interference mechanism in which proteins of a satellite virus affect the RNA production of its helper virus. Exploiting these findings could pave the way to the development of new therapeutic strategies against HBV. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Although the molecular mechanisms remained unexplored, it has long been known that despite its dependency, HDV decreases HBV viremia in patients. Herein, using in vitro and in vivo models, we showed that HDV interferes with HBV through both IFN-dependent and IFN-independent mechanisms affecting HBV RNA metabolism, and we defined the HDV-induced modulation signature. The mechanisms we uncovered could pave the way for the development of new therapeutic strategies against HBV by mimicking and/or increasing the effect of HDAg on HBV RNA. Additionally, the HDV-induced modulation signature could potentially be correlated with responsiveness to IFN-α treatment, thereby helping to guide management of HBV/HDV-coinfected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lucifora
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France; INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.
| | - Dulce Alfaiate
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France; Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Caroline Pons
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France; INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Maud Michelet
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | | | - Floriane Fusil
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France
| | - Fouzia Amirache
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France
| | - Axel Rossi
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anne-Flore Legrand
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France
| | - Emilie Charles
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France
| | - Serena Vegna
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Rayan Farhat
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | | | - Guillaume Passot
- Service de chirurgie générale et Oncologique, Hôpital Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon Et CICLY, EA3738, Université Lyon 1, France
| | - Nicolas Gadot
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Charlotte Bach
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques UMR_S1110, Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas F Baumert
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques UMR_S1110, Strasbourg, France; Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France; Department of Hepatology, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Andre Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Gravendijkwal 230, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hildegard Büning
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eloi R Verrier
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques UMR_S1110, Strasbourg, France
| | - François-Loïc Cosset
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France
| | | | - Anna Salvetti
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France; INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - David Durantel
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007, Lyon, France; INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), University of Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
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12
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Koffas A, Mak LY, Kennedy PTF. Hepatitis delta virus: Disease assessment and stratification. J Viral Hepat 2022; 30 Suppl 1:11-20. [PMID: 36458851 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) causes one of the most severe forms of hepatitis in people with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. Timely and accurate assessment of hepatitis delta virus (HDV) and disease stratification is mandatory for thorough pre-therapeutic evaluation for prioritizing treatment and outcome prediction. Viral biomarkers associated with HDV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are crucial to aid in diagnosis, and monitoring of serum viral nucleic acids for both viruses is recommended. Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for staging of liver fibrosis and grading of histological activity and should remain central for diagnostic purposes, but is also of importance for research to enhance our understanding of HDV. The emergence of novel non-invasive tests for the assessment of liver fibrosis in HDV patients coupled with the well-recognized potential complications of liver biopsy has resulted in reduced utility of liver biopsy in clinical practice. Preliminary data suggest that these emerging non-invasive modalities appear to be reliable, and their use is supported, similar to other viral hepatitis. Nevertheless, further validation is required before their widespread adoption into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apostolos Koffas
- Barts Liver Centre, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Lung-Yi Mak
- Barts Liver Centre, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Patrick T F Kennedy
- Barts Liver Centre, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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13
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Mak LY, Beasley I, Kennedy PTF. Chronic Viral Hepatitis in Elite Athletes: Approaches to Risk Assessment, Prevention and Management. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2022; 8:123. [PMID: 36192563 PMCID: PMC9530082 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-022-00517-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Elite athletes who participate in contact sports are at risk of bleeding injuries, leading to transmission of blood-borne viruses including hepatitis type B, C and D (HBV, HCV and HDV) capable of causing chronic liver disease, liver failure and liver cancer. In view of the significant advances in the viral hepatitis field over the past decade, more structured approaches should be in place to screen for and manage viral hepatitis in elite athletes. HBV status should be assessed in all elite athletes, and those infected should receive nucleos(t)ide analogues for viral suppression, while uninfected individuals should receive HBV vaccination. The all-oral direct acting antivirals for HCV are highly effective and safe, thus the remaining challenge with hepatitis C is case identification and linkage to care. HDV is only found in HBV-infected individuals, which is characterized by rapid disease progression and higher rates of cirrhosis and liver cancer in infected subjects. Pegylated interferon was the mainstay of treatment for HDV infection until bulevirtide, a viral entry inhibitor, was recently approved by the European Union (EMA) and FDA in America, while multiple novel therapies are already in clinical trials as part of the HBV cure program. Overall, awareness of chronic viral hepatitis in athletes should be improved. Prevention remains the cornerstone of the management of viral hepatitis in sport coupled with rigorous disease assessment in infected individuals, and antiviral therapy where indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lung-Yi Mak
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Department of Immunobiology, Barts Liver Centre, The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK ,grid.194645.b0000000121742757Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China ,grid.194645.b0000000121742757State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ian Beasley
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary College, London, UK
| | - Patrick T. F. Kennedy
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Department of Immunobiology, Barts Liver Centre, The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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14
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Bazinet M, Anderson M, Pântea V, Placinta G, Moscalu I, Cebotarescu V, Cojuhari L, Jimbei P, Iarovoi L, Smesnoi V, Musteata T, Jucov A, Dittmer U, Gersch J, Holzmayer V, Kuhns M, Cloherty G, Vaillant A. HBsAg isoform dynamics during NAP-based therapy of HBeAg-negative chronic HBV and HBV/HDV infection. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:1870-1880. [PMID: 35368148 PMCID: PMC9315123 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid polymers block the assembly of hepatitis B virus (HBV) subviral particles, effectively preventing hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) replenishment in the circulation. Nucleic acid polymer (NAP)-based combination therapy of HBV infection or HBV/hepatitis D virus (HDV) co-infection is accompanied by HBsAg clearance and seroconversion, HDV-RNA clearance in co-infection, and persistent functional cure of HBV (HBsAg < 0.05 IU/ml, HBV-DNA target not dected, normal alanine aminotransferase) and persistent clearance of HDV RNA. An analysis of HBsAg isoform changes during quantitative HBsAg declines (qHBsAg), and subsequent treatment-free follow-up in the REP 301/REP 301-LTF (HBV/HDV) and REP 401 (HBV) studies was conducted. HBsAg isoforms were analyzed from frozen serum samples using Abbott Research Use Only assays for HBsAg isoforms (large [L], medium [M], and total [T]). The relative change over time in small HBsAg relative to the other isoforms was inferred by the change in the ratio over time of T-HBsAg to M-HBsAg. HBsAg isoform declines followed qHBsAg declines in all participants. No HBsAg isoforms were detectable in any participants with functional cure. HBsAg declines > 2 log10 IU/ml from baseline were correlated with selective clearance of S-HBsAg in 39 of 42 participants. Selective S-HBsAg decline was absent in 9 of 10 participants with HBsAg decline < 2 log10 IU/ml from baseline. Mild qHBsAg rebound during follow-up <10 IU/ml consisted mostly of S-HBsAg and M-HBsAg and not accompanied by significant covalently closed circular DNA activity. Conclusion: The faster observed declines in S-HBsAg indicate the selective clearance of subviral particles from the circulation, consistent with previous mechanistic studies on NAPs. Trace HBsAg rebound in the absence of HBV DNA may reflect HBsAg derived from integrated HBV DNA and not rebound of viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Victor Pântea
- Department of Infectious DiseasesNicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and PharmacyChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | - Gheorghe Placinta
- Department of Infectious DiseasesNicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and PharmacyChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | - Iurie Moscalu
- ARENSIA Exploratory MedicineRepublican Clinical HospitalChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | - Valentin Cebotarescu
- Department of Infectious DiseasesNicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and PharmacyChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | - Lilia Cojuhari
- Department of Infectious DiseasesNicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and PharmacyChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | - Pavlina Jimbei
- Toma Ciorbǎ Infectious Clinical HospitalChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | - Liviu Iarovoi
- Department of Infectious DiseasesNicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and PharmacyChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | | | - Tatina Musteata
- Toma Ciorbǎ Infectious Clinical HospitalChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | - Alina Jucov
- Department of Infectious DiseasesNicolae Testemiţanu State University of Medicine and PharmacyChișinăuRepublic of Moldova.,ARENSIA Exploratory MedicineRepublican Clinical HospitalChișinăuRepublic of Moldova
| | - Ulf Dittmer
- Institute for VirologyUniversity of Duisburg-EssenEssenGermany
| | | | | | - Mary Kuhns
- Abbott DiagnosticsAbbott ParkIllinoisUSA
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15
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Usai C, Gill US, Riddell AC, Asselah T, Kennedy P. Review article: emerging insights into the immunopathology, clinical and therapeutic aspects of hepatitis delta virus. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 55:978-993. [PMID: 35292991 PMCID: PMC9314912 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis delta virus (HDV), which causes the most severe form of viral hepatitis, is an obligated hepatitis B (HBV) satellite virus that can either infect naïve subjects simultaneously with HBV (co-infection), or chronically infect HBV carriers (super-infection). An estimated 12 million people are infected by HDV worldwide. AIMS To summarise the most relevant aspects of the molecular biology of HDV, and to discuss the latest understanding of the induced pathology, interactions with the immune system, as well as both approved and investigational treatment options. METHODS References for this review were identified through searches of PubMed with the terms "HDV" "viral hepatitis" "co-infection" and "super-infection," published between 1980 and October 2021 RESULTS: The limited access to the HDV-infected liver has hampered the investigation of the intrahepatic compartment and our understanding of the mechanisms of HDV pathogenesis. In the absence of standardised and sensitive diagnostic tools, HDV is often underdiagnosed and owing to its strong dependence on host cellular factors, the development of direct antiviral agents has been challenging. New therapeutic agents targeting different steps of the viral cycle have recently been investigated, among which bulevirtide (which was conditionally approved by EMA in July 2020) and lonafarnib; both drugs having received orphan drug designation from both the EMA and FDA. CONCLUSIONS The HBV cure programme potentially offers a unique opportunity to enhance HDV treatment strategies. In addition, a more comprehensive analysis of the intrahepatic compartment is mandated to better understand any liver-confined interaction of HDV with the host immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Usai
- Centre for Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and DentistryQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK,Present address:
Unitat mixta d’Investigació IRTA‐UAB en Sanitat AnimalCentre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)Bellaterra08193Spain
| | - Upkar S. Gill
- Centre for Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and DentistryQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK,The Royal London HospitalBarts Health NHS TrustLondonUK
| | - Anna C. Riddell
- Division of Infection, Virology DepartmentBarts Health NHS TrustLondonUK
| | - Tarik Asselah
- Centre de recherche sur l'inflammation, Inserm U1149Université́ de ParisParisFrance,Department of Hepatology, AP‐HPHôpital BeaujonClichyFrance
| | - Patrick T. Kennedy
- Centre for Immunobiology, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and DentistryQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK,The Royal London HospitalBarts Health NHS TrustLondonUK
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16
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Sandmann L, Yurdaydin C, Deterding K, Heidrich B, Hardtke S, Lehmann P, Bremer B, Manns MP, Cornberg M, Wedemeyer H, Maasoumy B. HBcrAg Levels Are Associated With Virological Response to Treatment With Interferon in Patients With Hepatitis Delta. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:480-495. [PMID: 34561972 PMCID: PMC8870014 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Standard treatment of hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection remains pegylated-interferon alfa (peg-IFNα) in most centers, which is not only associated with rather low efficacy but several adverse events. Hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) is linked to intrahepatic covalently closed circular DNA levels and has previously been suggested as response predictor in IFN-based treatment of hepatitis B virus (HBV) mono-infection. This study aimed to investigate the value of HBcrAg in the management of patients with HBV/HDV co-infection undergoing peg-IFNα treatment. The Hep-Net-International-Delta-Hepatitis-Intervention Trial-2 study included 120 patients co-infected with HBV/HDV. Patients were treated for 96 weeks with peg-IFNα and either tenofovir or placebo. Ninety-nine patients with HDV-RNA results 24 weeks after end of treatment (FU24) were included in this analysis, of whom 32 patients (32.3%) had undetectable HDV RNA at FU24. HBcrAg was measured at baseline, week 12, 24, 48, 96, and FU24. HBcrAg levels showed no significant correlation with HDV RNA but were significantly linked to treatment outcome. HBcrAg levels < 4.5 log IU/mL at baseline, week 24, and week 48 had high negative predictive value (NPV) for achieving undetectable HDV RNA at FU24 (81.8%, 87.1% and 95.0%, respectively). Similarly, HBcrAg levels at week 96 were significantly higher in patients with viral relapse until FU24 (3.0 vs. 3.63 log IU/mL; P = 0.0089). Baseline, week 24, and week 48 HBcrAg levels were also associated with the likelihood of achieving HBsAg level < 100 IU/mL at FU24 (HBcrAg < 3.0 log IU/mL: NPV 91.7%, 90.4% and 92.3%, respectively). Test statistics improved when combining HBcrAg with additional viral and clinical parameters. Conclusion: HBcrAg is linked to treatment response to peg-IFNα in patients with HBV/HDV co-infection and could be a promising marker to determine treatment futility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Sandmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Cihan Yurdaydin
- Department of GastroenterologyUniversity of Ankara Medical SchoolAnkaraTurkey.,Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyKoç University Medical SchoolIstanbulTurkey
| | - Katja Deterding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Benjamin Heidrich
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Svenja Hardtke
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany.,German Center for Infection Research, HepNet Study-HouseHannoverGermany
| | - Patrick Lehmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Birgit Bremer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany.,Center for Individualized Infection MedicineHelmholtz Centre for Infection ResearchHannoverGermany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany.,German Center for Infection Research, HepNet Study-HouseHannoverGermany.,German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site Hannover-BraunschweigHannoverGermany.,Center for Individualized Infection MedicineHelmholtz Centre for Infection ResearchHannoverGermany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany.,German Center for Infection Research, HepNet Study-HouseHannoverGermany.,German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site Hannover-BraunschweigHannoverGermany
| | - Benjamin Maasoumy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndocrinologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany.,German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site Hannover-BraunschweigHannoverGermany.,Center for Individualized Infection MedicineHelmholtz Centre for Infection ResearchHannoverGermany
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17
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Michelet M, Alfaiate D, Chardès B, Pons C, Faure-Dupuy S, Engleitner T, Farhat R, Riedl T, Legrand AF, Rad R, Rivoire M, Zoulim F, Heikenwälder M, Salvetti A, Durantel D, Lucifora J. Inducers of the NF-κB pathways impair hepatitis delta virus replication and strongly decrease progeny infectivity in vitro. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100415. [PMID: 35141510 PMCID: PMC8792426 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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18
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Chen LY, Pang XY, Goyal H, Yang RX, Xu HG. Hepatitis D: challenges in the estimation of true prevalence and laboratory diagnosis. Gut Pathog 2021; 13:66. [PMID: 34717740 PMCID: PMC8557527 DOI: 10.1186/s13099-021-00462-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective single negative chain RNA virus, as its envelope protein synthesis is dependent on hepatitis B virus (HBV). Studies have consistently shown that coinfection of HBV and HDV is the most serious form of viral hepatitis, with accelerated progression to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. About 74 million of HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) positive patients worldwide are also co-infected with HDV. Besides, patients with intravenous drug use and high-risk sexual behavior are at higher risk of HDV infection. Therapeutic schedules for HDV are limited, and relapse of HDV has been observed after treatment with pegylated interferon alpha. To reduce the transmission of HDV, all people infected with HBV should be screened for HDV. At present, several serological and molecular detection methods are widely used in the diagnosis of HDV. However, due to the lack of international standards diagnostic results from different laboratories are often not comparable. Therefore, the true prevalence of HDV is still unclear. In this manuscript, we have analyzed various factors influencing the estimation of HDV prevalence. We have also discussed about the advantages and disadvantages of currently available HDV laboratory diagnostic methods, in order to provide some ideas for improving the detection of HDV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Yuan Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Pang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hemant Goyal
- Department of Internal Medicine Macon, Mercer University School of Medicine, Georgia, USA
| | - Rui-Xia Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Hua-Guo Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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19
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Innate immunity in hepatitis B and D virus infection: consequences for viral persistence, inflammation, and T cell recognition. Semin Immunopathol 2021; 43:535-548. [PMID: 34019142 PMCID: PMC8443521 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-021-00864-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chronic infections with human hepatitis viruses continue to be a major health burden worldwide. Despite the availability of an effective prophylactic vaccine against the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and of antiviral agents efficiently suppressing HBV replication, more than 250 million people are currently chronically infected with this hepatotropic DNA virus, and resolution of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is rarely achieved. Moreover, coinfection with the hepatitis D virus (HDV), a human RNA satellite virus requiring the envelope proteins of HBV for productive viral spreading, substantially aggravates the disease course of CHB. The molecular mechanisms by which these viruses interact with each other and with the intrinsic innate responses of the hepatocytes are not fully understood. While HBV appears to avoid innate immune recognition, HDV elicits a strong enhancement of innate responses. Notwithstanding, such induction does not hamper HDV replication but contributes to liver inflammation and pathogenesis. Intriguingly, HDV appears to influence the ability of T cells to recognize infected hepatocytes by boosting antigen presentation. This review focuses on current knowledge regarding how these viruses can shape and counteract the intrinsic innate responses of the hepatocytes, thus affecting the immune system and pathogenesis. Understanding the distinct strategies of persistence that HBV and HDV have evolved is central for advancing the development of curative therapies.
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Péneau C, Zucman-Rossi J, Nault JC. Genomics of Viral Hepatitis-Associated Liver Tumors. J Clin Med 2021; 10:1827. [PMID: 33922394 PMCID: PMC8122827 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10091827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-related liver carcinogenesis is one of the main contributors of cancer-related death worldwide mainly due to the impact of chronic hepatitis B and C infections. Three mechanisms have been proposed to explain the oncogenic properties of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection: induction of chronic inflammation and cirrhosis, expression of HBV oncogenic proteins, and insertional mutagenesis into the genome of infected hepatocytes. Hepatitis B insertional mutagenesis modifies the function of cancer driver genes and could promote chromosomal instability. In contrast, hepatitis C virus promotes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence mainly through cirrhosis development whereas the direct oncogenic role of the virus in human remains debated. Finally, adeno associated virus type 2 (AAV2), a defective DNA virus, has been associated with occurrence of HCC harboring insertional mutagenesis of the virus. Since these tumors developed in a non-cirrhotic context and in the absence of a known etiological factor, AAV2 appears to be the direct cause of tumor development in these patients via a mechanism of insertional mutagenesis altering similar oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes targeted by HBV. A better understanding of virus-related oncogenesis will be helpful to develop new preventive strategies and therapies directed against specific alterations observed in virus-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Péneau
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Université de Paris, F-75006 Paris, France; (C.P.); (J.Z.-R.)
- Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors Laboratory, Équipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Labex OncoImmunology, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Jessica Zucman-Rossi
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Université de Paris, F-75006 Paris, France; (C.P.); (J.Z.-R.)
- Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors Laboratory, Équipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Labex OncoImmunology, F-75006 Paris, France
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Charles Nault
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Université de Paris, F-75006 Paris, France; (C.P.); (J.Z.-R.)
- Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors Laboratory, Équipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Labex OncoImmunology, F-75006 Paris, France
- Service d’hépatologie, Hôpital Avicenne, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Seine-Saint-Denis, Assistance-Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, F-93000 Bobigny, France
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Santé Médecine et Biologie Humaine, Université Paris Nord, F-93000 Bobigny, France
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21
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Brancaccio G, Salpini R, Piermatteo L, Surdo M, Fini V, Colagrossi L, Cantone M, Battisti A, Oda Y, Di Carlo D, Ceccherini-Silberstein F, Perno CF, Gaeta GB, Svicher V. An Increase in the Levels of Middle Surface Antigen Characterizes Patients Developing HBV-Driven Liver Cancer Despite Prolonged Virological Suppression. Microorganisms 2021; 9:752. [PMID: 33918474 PMCID: PMC8065957 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9040752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) contains three surface glycoproteins-Large-HBs (L-HBs), Middle-HBs (M-HBs), and Small-HBs (S-HBs), known to contribute to HBV-driven pro-oncogenic properties. Here, we examined the kinetics of HBs-isoforms in virologically-suppressed patients who developed or did not develop hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study enrolled 30 chronically HBV-infected cirrhotic patients under fully-suppressive anti-HBV treatment. Among them, 13 patients developed HCC. Serum samples were collected at enrolment (T0) and at HCC diagnosis or at the last control for non-HCC patients (median (range) follow-up: 38 (12-48) months). Ad-hoc ELISAs were designed to quantify L-HBs, M-HBs and S-HBs (Beacle). At T0, median (IQR) levels of S-HBs, M-HBs and L-HBs were 3140 (457-6995), 220 (31-433) and 0.2 (0-1.7) ng/mL. No significant differences in the fraction of the three HBs-isoforms were noticed between patients who developed or did not develop HCC at T0. On treatment, S-HBs showed a >25% decline or remained stable in a similar proportion of HCC and non-HCC patients (58.3% of HCC- vs. 47.1% of non-HCC patients, p = 0.6; 25% of HCC vs. 29.4% of non-HCC, p = 0.8, respectively). Conversely, M-HBs showed a >25% increase in a higher proportion of HCC compared to non-HCC patients (50% vs. 11.8%, p = 0.02), in line with M-HBs pro-oncogenic role reported in in vitro studies. No difference in L-HBs kinetics was observed in HCC and non-HCC patients. In conclusion, an increase in M-HBs levels characterizes a significant fraction of HCC-patients while under prolonged HBV suppression and stable/reduced total-HBs. The role of M-HBs kinetics in identifying patients at higher HCC risk deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Romina Salpini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.S.); (L.P.); (A.B.); (F.C.-S.)
| | - Lorenzo Piermatteo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.S.); (L.P.); (A.B.); (F.C.-S.)
| | - Matteo Surdo
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Eurofins Genoma, 00138 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (V.F.)
| | - Vanessa Fini
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Eurofins Genoma, 00138 Rome, Italy; (M.S.); (V.F.)
| | - Luna Colagrossi
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Laboratory, Bambin Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (L.C.); (C.F.P.)
| | - Marco Cantone
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Naples, Italy; (M.C.); (G.B.G.)
| | - Arianna Battisti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.S.); (L.P.); (A.B.); (F.C.-S.)
| | | | - Domenico Di Carlo
- Paediatric Clinical Research Center “Romeo and Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milan, 26900 Milan, Italy;
| | | | - Carlo Federico Perno
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Laboratory, Bambin Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (L.C.); (C.F.P.)
| | - Giovanni Battista Gaeta
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Naples, Italy; (M.C.); (G.B.G.)
| | - Valentina Svicher
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.S.); (L.P.); (A.B.); (F.C.-S.)
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22
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In Vivo Models of HDV Infection: Is Humanizing NTCP Enough? Viruses 2021; 13:v13040588. [PMID: 33807170 PMCID: PMC8065588 DOI: 10.3390/v13040588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of sodium taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) as a hepatitis B (HBV) and delta virus (HDV) entry receptor has encouraged the development of new animal models of infection. This review provides an overview of the different in vivo models that are currently available to study HDV either in the absence or presence of HBV. By presenting new advances and remaining drawbacks, we will discuss human host factors which, in addition to NTCP, need to be investigated or identified to enable a persistent HDV infection in murine hepatocytes. Detailed knowledge on species-specific factors involved in HDV persistence also shall contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies.
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23
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Giersch K, Hermanussen L, Volz T, Kah J, Allweiss L, Casey J, Sureau C, Dandri M, Lütgehetmann M. Murine hepatocytes do not support persistence of Hepatitis D virus mono-infection in vivo. Liver Int 2021; 41:410-419. [PMID: 32997847 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS & AIMS As a result of the limited availability of in vivo models for hepatitis D virus (HDV), treatment options for HDV chronically infected patients are still scant. The discovery of sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) as HDV entry receptor has enabled the development of new infection models. AIM To comparatively assess the efficacy and persistence of HDV mono-infection in murine and human hepatocytes in vivo. METHODS Mice with humanized NTCP (hNTCPed84-87 mice) were generated by editing amino acid residues 84-87 of murine NTCP in C57BL/6J mice. HDV infection was assessed in hNTCPed84-87 mice and in immune deficient uPA/SCID/beige (USB) mice, whose livers were reconstituted with human or murine (hNTCPed84-87 ) hepatocytes. Livers were analysed between 5 and 42 days post-HDV inoculation by qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence and RNA in situ hybridization (ISH). RESULTS hNTCPed84-87 mice could be infected with HDV genotype 1 or 3. ISH analysis demonstrated the presence of antigenomic HDV RNA positive murine hepatocytes with both genotypes, proving initiation of HDV replication. Strikingly, murine hepatocytes cleared HDV within 21 days both in immunocompetent hNTCPed84-87 mice and in immunodeficient USB mice xenografted with murine hepatocytes. In contrast, HDV infection remained stable for at least 42 days in human hepatocytes. Intrinsic innate responses were not enhanced in any of the HDV mono-infected cells and livers. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that in addition to NTCP, further species-specific factors limit HDV infection efficacy and persistence in murine hepatocytes. Identifying such species barriers may be crucial to develop novel potential therapeutic targets of HDV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Giersch
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lennart Hermanussen
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tassilo Volz
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Janine Kah
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lena Allweiss
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - John Casey
- Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Camille Sureau
- Institut National de la Transfusion Sanguine, Paris, France
| | - Maura Dandri
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems site, Borstel, Germany
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems site, Borstel, Germany.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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24
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Attiku K, Bonney J, Agbosu E, Bonney E, Puplampu P, Ganu V, Odoom J, Aboagye J, Mensah J, Agyemang S, Awuku-Larbi Y, Arjarquah A, Mawuli G, Quaye O. Circulation of hepatitis delta virus and occult hepatitis B virus infection amongst HIV/HBV co-infected patients in Korle-Bu, Ghana. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0244507. [PMID: 33411715 PMCID: PMC7790253 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Within HIV/HBV infected patients, an increase in HDV infection has been observed; there is inadequate information on HDV prevalence as well as virologic profile in Ghana. This study sought to determine the presence of HDV in HIV/HBV co-infected patients in Ghana. METHODS This was a longitudinal purposive study which enrolled 113 HIV/HBV co-infected patients attending clinic at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) in Accra, Ghana. After consenting, 5 mL whole blood was collected at two-time points (baseline and 4-6 months afterwards). The sera obtained were tested to confirm the presence of HIV, HBV antibodies and/or antigens, and HBV DNA. Antibodies and viral RNA were also determined for HDV. Amplified HBV DNA and HDV RNA were sequenced and phylogenetic analysis carried out with reference sequences from the GenBank to establish the genotypes. RESULTS Of the 113 samples tested 63 (55.7%) were females and 50 (44.25%) were males with a median age of 45 years. A total of 100 (88.5%) samples had detectable HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), and 32 out of the 113 had detectable HBV DNA. Nucleotide sequences were obtained for 15 and 2 samples of HBV and HDV, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis was predominantly genotype E for the HBVs and genotype 1 for the HDVs. Of the 13 samples that were HBsAg unreactive, 4 (30.8%) had detectable HBV DNA suggesting the incidence of occult HBV infections. The percentage occurrence of HDV in this study was observed to be 3.54. CONCLUSION Our data suggest the presence and circulation of HDV and incidence of occult HBV infection in HIV/HBV co-infected patients in Ghana. This informs health staff and makes it imperative to look out for the presence of HDV and occult HBV in HIV/HBV co-infected patients presenting with potential risk of liver cancers and HBV transmission through haemodialysis and blood transfusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Attiku
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph Bonney
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Esinam Agbosu
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Evelyn Bonney
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Vincent Ganu
- Fevers Unit, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - John Odoom
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - James Aboagye
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - John Mensah
- Fevers Unit, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - Seth Agyemang
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Fevers Unit, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - Yaw Awuku-Larbi
- School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Augustina Arjarquah
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gifty Mawuli
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Osbourne Quaye
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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25
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Sokhanvar Z, Elikaei A, Sharifi Z. Evaluation of miR-222 Expression in HBV Infected Patients in Comparison with HDV and HBV Co-infected Patients. Avicenna J Med Biotechnol 2021; 13:223-225. [PMID: 34900149 PMCID: PMC8606108] [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: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver disease is more severe in HDV+HBV co-infected patients than HBV infected patients which seems to be related to differences in the expression of genes and other factors such as MicroRNAs (miRNAs). The aim of this study was to investigate miR-222 expression in HBV infected patients in comparison with HDV+HBV co-infected patients. METHODS First, total RNA was extracted from the serum samples and then, complementary DNA (cDNA) was produced using cDNA synthesis kit. Finally, miR-222 gene expression was measured using U6 as the internal control by quantitative PCR (qPCR). RESULTS The level of miR-222 expression in HDV+HBV co-infected samples was significantly up regulated. The fold change of the miR-222 expression between two groups was 3.3 (95% CI; 0.011-17.63) with p<0.001. CONCLUSION The expression of miR-222 was higher in HBV+HDV co-infected patients than HBV infected patients. Further studies should be conducted to confirm whether miR-222 can be a biomarker for prognosis of severe liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Sokhanvar
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ameneh Elikaei
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Sharifi
- Department of Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author: Zohreh Sharifi, Ph.D., Department of Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran, Tel: +98 21 82052155, Fax: +98 21 88601555, E-mail:,
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Distinct Cytokine Profiles Correlate with Disease Severity and Outcome in Longitudinal Studies of Acute Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatitis D Virus Infection in Chimpanzees. mBio 2020; 11:mBio.02580-20. [PMID: 33203756 PMCID: PMC7683399 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02580-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Historical studies conducted in chimpanzees gave us the opportunity to investigate the basis for the different severities of liver damage and disease outcome associated with infection with wild-type hepatitis B virus (HBV) versus a precore HBV mutant, HBV/hepatitis D virus (HDV) coinfection, and HDV superinfection. Weekly samples from 9 chimpanzees were studied for immune responses by measuring plasma levels of 29 cytokines in parallel with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and viral kinetics. Comparison of classic acute hepatitis B (AHB) with severe or progressive AHB and HBV/HDV coinfection or superinfection identified distinct cytokine profiles. Classic AHB (mean ALT peak, 362 IU/liter) correlated with an early and significant induction of interferon alpha-2 (IFN-α2), IFN-γ, interleukin-12 p70 (IL-12 p70), and IL-17A. In contrast, these cytokines were virtually undetectable in severe AHB (mean ALT peak, 1,335 IU/liter), characterized by significant elevations of IL-10, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and MIP-1β. In progressive AHB (mean ALT peak, 166 IU/liter), there was a delayed and lower-magnitude induction of cytokines. The ALT peak was also delayed (mean, 23.5 weeks) compared to those of classic (13.5 weeks) and severe AHB (7.5 weeks). HBV/HDV coinfection correlated with significantly lower levels of IFN-α2, IFN-γ, and IL-17A, associated with the presence of multiple proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-15. Conversely, HDV superinfection induced the highest ALT peak (1,910 IU/liter) and was associated with a general suppression of cytokines. Our data demonstrate that the most severe liver damage, caused by an HBV precore mutant and HDV, correlated with restricted cytokine expression and lack of Th1 response, raising the question of whether these viruses are directly cytopathic.IMPORTANCE Studies performed in chimpanzees at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) demonstrated a significant difference in ALT levels during acute hepatitis of different viral etiologies, with a hierarchy in the extent of liver damage according to the infecting virus: the highest level was in HDV superinfection, followed by infection with a precore HBV mutant, HBV/HDV coinfection, and, lastly, wild-type HBV infection. Our study demonstrates that both the virus and host are important in disease pathogenesis and offers new insights into their roles. We found that distinct cytokine profiles were associated with disease severity and clinical outcome. In particular, resolution of classic acute hepatitis B (AHB) correlated with a predominant Th1 response, whereas HBV/HDV coinfection showed a predominant proinflammatory response. Severe AHB and HDV superinfection showed a restricted cytokine profile and no evidence of Th1 response. The lack of cytokines associated with adaptive T-cell responses toward the precore HBV mutant and HDV superinfection argues in favor of a direct cytopathic effect of these viruses.
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Ringlander J, Skoglund C, Prakash K, Andersson ME, Larsson SB, Tang KW, Rydell GE, Abrahamsson S, Castedal M, Norder H, Hellstrand K, Lindh M. Deep sequencing of liver explant transcriptomes reveals extensive expression from integrated hepatitis B virus DNA. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:1162-1170. [PMID: 32592629 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Integration of HBV DNA into the human genome may contribute to oncogenesis and to the production of the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Whether integrations contribute to HBsAg levels in the blood is poorly known. Here, we characterize the HBV RNA profile of HBV integrations in liver tissue in patients with chronic HBV infection, with or without concurrent hepatitis D infection, by transcriptome deep sequencing. Transcriptomes were determined in liver tissue by deep sequencing providing 200 million reads per sample. Integration points were identified using a bioinformatic pipeline. Explanted liver tissue from five patients with end-stage liver disease caused by HBV or HBV/HDV was studied along with publicly available transcriptomes from 21 patients. Almost all HBV RNA profiles were devoid of reads in the core and the 3' redundancy (nt 1830-1927) regions, and contained a large number of chimeric viral/human reads. Hence, HBV transcripts from integrated HBV DNA rather than from covalently closed circular HBV DNA (cccDNA) predominated in late-stage HBV infection, in particular in cases with hepatitis D virus co-infection. The findings support the suggestion that integrated HBV DNA can be a significant source of HBsAg in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Ringlander
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Catarina Skoglund
- The Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kasthuri Prakash
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria E Andersson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Simon B Larsson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ka-Wei Tang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gustaf E Rydell
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sanna Abrahamsson
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Castedal
- The Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Heléne Norder
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristoffer Hellstrand
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Magnus Lindh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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28
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Berg MG, Olivo A, Forberg K, Harris BJ, Yamaguchi J, Shirazi R, Gozlan Y, Sauleda S, Kaptue L, Rodgers MA, Mor O, Cloherty GA. Advanced molecular surveillance approaches for characterization of blood borne hepatitis viruses. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236046. [PMID: 32678844 PMCID: PMC7367454 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Defining genetic diversity of viral infections directly from patient specimens is the ultimate goal of surveillance. Simple tools that can provide full-length sequence information on blood borne viral hepatitis viruses: hepatitis C, hepatitis B and hepatitis D viruses (HCV, HBV and HDV) remain elusive. Here, an unbiased metagenomic next generation sequencing approach (mNGS) was used for molecular characterization of HCV infections (n = 99) from Israel which yielded full-length HCV sequences in 89% of samples, with 7 partial sequences sufficient for classification. HCV genotypes were primarily 1b (68%) and 1a (19%), with minor representation of genotypes 2c (1%) and 3a (8%). HBV/HDV coinfections were characterized by suppressed HBV viral loads, resulting in sparse mNGS coverage. A probe-based enrichment approach (xGen) aiming to increase HBV and HDV coverage was validated on a panel of diverse genotypes, geography and titers. The method extended HBV genome coverage a median 61% (range 8–84%) and provided orders of magnitude boosts in reads and sequence depth for both viruses. When HBV-xGen was applied to Israeli samples, coverage was improved by 28–73% in 4 samples and identified HBV genotype A1, A2, D1 specimens and a dual B/D infection. Abundant HDV reads in mNGS libraries yielded 18/26 (69%) full genomes and 8 partial sequences, with HDV-xGen only providing minimal extension (3–11%) of what were all genotype 1 genomes. Advanced molecular approaches coupled to virus-specific capture probes promise to enhance surveillance of viral infections and aid in monitoring the spread of local subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G. Berg
- Infectious Diseases Research, Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Park, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ana Olivo
- Infectious Diseases Research, Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Park, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Kenn Forberg
- Infectious Diseases Research, Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Park, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Barbara J. Harris
- Infectious Diseases Research, Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Park, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Julie Yamaguchi
- Infectious Diseases Research, Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Park, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Rachel Shirazi
- Central Virology Laboratory, National HIV and Viral Hepatitis Reference Center, Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Yael Gozlan
- Central Virology Laboratory, National HIV and Viral Hepatitis Reference Center, Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Silvia Sauleda
- Transfusion Safety Laboratory, Banc de Sang i Teixits, Servei Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Mary A. Rodgers
- Infectious Diseases Research, Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Park, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Orna Mor
- Central Virology Laboratory, National HIV and Viral Hepatitis Reference Center, Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Gavin A. Cloherty
- Infectious Diseases Research, Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Park, Illinois, United States of America
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Lucifora J, Delphin M. Current knowledge on Hepatitis Delta Virus replication. Antiviral Res 2020; 179:104812. [PMID: 32360949 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2020.104812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) that infects liver parenchymal cells is responsible for severe liver diseases and co-infection with Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) leads to the most aggressive form of viral hepatitis. Even tough being different for their viral genome (relaxed circular partially double stranded DNA for HBV and circular RNA for HDV), HBV and HDV are both maintained as episomes in the nucleus of infected cells and use the cellular machinery for the transcription of their viral RNAs. We propose here an update on the current knowledge on HDV replication cycle that may eventually help to identify new antiviral targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lucifora
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, France.
| | - Marion Delphin
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, France
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30
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Dandri M. Epigenetic modulation in chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Semin Immunopathol 2020; 42:173-185. [PMID: 32185454 PMCID: PMC7174266 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-020-00780-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The human hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a small-enveloped DNA virus causing acute and chronic hepatitis. Despite the existence of an effective prophylactic vaccine and the strong capacity of approved antiviral drugs to suppress viral replication, chronic HBV infection (CHB) continues to be a major health burden worldwide. Both the inability of the immune system to resolve CHB and the unique replication strategy employed by HBV, which forms a stable viral covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) minichromosome in the hepatocyte nucleus, enable infection persistence. Knowledge of the complex network of interactions that HBV engages with its host is still limited but accumulating evidence indicates that epigenetic modifications occurring both on the cccDNA and on the host genome in the course of infection are essential to modulate viral activity and likely contribute to pathogenesis and cancer development. Thus, a deeper understanding of epigenetic regulatory processes may open new venues to control and eventually cure CHB. This review summarizes major findings in HBV epigenetic research, focusing on the epigenetic mechanisms regulating cccDNA activity and the modifications determined in infected host cells and tumor liver tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Dandri
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany. .,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, Hamburg, Germany.
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31
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Sharafi H, Rezaee-Zavareh MS, Miri SM, Alavian SM. Global Distribution of Hepatitis D Virus Genotypes: A Systematic Review. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2020; 20. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.102268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
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32
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Human pegivirus 2 exhibits minimal geographic and temporal genetic diversity. Virology 2019; 539:69-79. [PMID: 31689572 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2019.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
We applied an NGS based target capture approach to amplify HPgV-2 sequences from metagenomic libraries and enable full genome characterization. Despite expanded geographical sampling, sequence variability remains low, with diversity concentrated in approximately 3.3% of all amino acids. Serial samples from one HPgV-2 positive individual co-infected with comparable titers of HIV, HCV, and GBV-C showed that HPgV-2 remains highly stable over several weeks compared to other RNA viruses, despite a similarly error-prone polymerase. The consistent epidemiological association with and structural similarities to HCV, and the weak positive correlation of HCV and HPgV-2 titers shown here, suggests it may benefit from co-infection. While minimal selective pressure on HPgV-2 to evolve could suggest fitness, the rarity of HPgV-2 and the tight phylogenetic clustering of global strains likely indicates origination from a common source and a virus that is ill-suited to its host. Sporadic infections may explain the limited genetic diversity observed worldwide.
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33
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Lee KC, Lin CL, Hsu CW, Chang ML, Chen YC, Lin WR, Lai MW, Lin KH, Chao M, Chien RN, Yeh CT. Decreasing seroprevalence of anti-hepatitis D virus antibodies in the antiviral era with inverse association with hepatitis B virus DNA, Taiwan, 2006 to 2019. J Med Virol 2019; 92:124-127. [PMID: 31469172 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.25582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We examined the seroprevalence change of anti-hepatitis D virus (HDV) antibodies in Taiwan from 2006 to 2019. A total of 1147 patients who had chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection were assessed. Of them, 51 (4.4%) were positive for anti-HDV antibodies. Comparison between anti-HDV-positive and negative groups was performed to examine clinical and virological factors related to anti-HDV positivity. It was found that the median HBV-DNA concentration was 1.6 × 105 IU/mL (range, <20-4.5 × 1010 IU/mL) and <20 IU/mL (range, <20-2.0 × 109 IU/mL) for patients with negative and positive anti-HDV antibodies, respectively (P < .001). In addition, a progressive year-to-year decrease of anti-HDV seroprevalence was unveiled. For patients who had HBV-DNA >15 000 IU/mL, the year-to-year (calculated every 2 years) seropositive rates of anti-HDV were 10.0%, 7.9%, 0.7%, 0.3%, 0%, 0%, and 0% (P < .001). For patients who had HBV-DNA <15 000 IU/mL, the year-to-year seropositive rates were 18.6%, 12.8%, 7.8%, 5.0%, 7.3%, 8.0%, and 3.7% (P < .001). In conclusion, seropositive of anti-HDV was inversely associated with HBV-DNA levels. A progressive decrease of anti-HDV seroprevalence was found with no anti-HDV-positive cases detected in high HBV-DNA patient group after 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Chieh Lee
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Lang Lin
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Wei Hsu
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Ling Chang
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Cheng Chen
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Wey-Ran Lin
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Wei Lai
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kwang-Huei Lin
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Mei Chao
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Rong-Nan Chien
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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34
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Godoy C, Tabernero D, Sopena S, Gregori J, Cortese MF, González C, Casillas R, Yll M, Rando A, López-Martínez R, Quer J, González-Aseguinolaza G, Esteban R, Riveiro-Barciela M, Buti M, Rodríguez-Frías F. Characterization of hepatitis B virus X gene quasispecies complexity in mono-infection and hepatitis delta virus superinfection. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:1566-1579. [PMID: 30983817 PMCID: PMC6452231 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i13.1566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) seems to strongly suppress hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication, although little is known about the mechanism of this interaction. Both these viruses show a dynamic distribution of mutants, resulting in viral quasispecies. Next-generation sequencing is a viable approach for analyzing the composition of these mutant spectra. As the regulatory hepatitis B X protein (HBx) is essential for HBV replication, determination of HBV X gene (HBX) quasispecies complexity in HBV/HDV infection compared to HBV mono-infection may provide information on the interactions between these two viruses.
AIM To compare HBV quasispecies complexity in the HBX 5’ region between chronic hepatitis delta (CHD) and chronic HBV mono-infected patients.
METHODS Twenty-four untreated patients were included: 7/24 (29.2%) with HBeAg-negative chronic HBV infection (CI, previously termed inactive carriers), 8/24 (33.3%) with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and 9/24 (37.5%) with CHD. A serum sample from each patient was first tested for HBV DNA levels. The HBX 5’ region [nucleotides (nt) 1255-1611] was then PCR-amplified for subsequent next-generation sequencing (MiSeq, Illumina, United States). HBV quasispecies complexity in the region analyzed was evaluated using incidence-based indices (number of haplotypes and number of mutations), abundance-based indices (Hill numbers of order 1 and 2), and functional indices (mutation frequency and nucleotide diversity). We also evaluated the pattern of nucleotide changes to investigate which of them could be the cause of the quasispecies complexity.
RESULTS CHB patients showed higher median HBV-DNA levels [5.4 logIU/mL, interquartile range (IQR) 3.5-7.9] than CHD (3.4 logIU/mL, IQR 3-7.6) (P = n.s.) or CI (3.2 logIU/mL, IQR 2.3-3.5) (P < 0.01) patients. The incidence and abundance indices indicated that HBV quasispecies complexity was significantly greater in CI than CHB. A similar trend was observed in CHD patients, although only Hill numbers of order 2 showed statistically significant differences (CHB 2.81, IQR 1.11-4.57 vs CHD 8.87, 6.56-11.18, P = 0.038). There were no significant differences in the functional indices, but CI and CHD patients also showed a trend towards greater complexity than CHB. No differences were found for any HBV quasispecies complexity indices between CHD and CI patients. G-to-A and C-to-T nucleotide changes, characteristic of APOBEC3G, were higher in CHD and CI than in CHB in genotype A haplotypes, but not in genotype D. The proportion of nt G-to-A vs A-to-G changes and C-to-T vs T-to-C changes in genotype A and D haplotypes in CHD patients showed no significant differences. In CHB and CI the results of these comparisons were dependent on HBV genotype.
CONCLUSION The lower-replication CHD and CI groups show a trend to higher quasispecies complexity than the higher-replication CHB group. The mechanisms associated with this greater complexity require elucidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Godoy
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
- Liver Unit, Liver Disease Laboratory-Viral Hepatitis, Vall d’Hebron Institut Recerca-Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - David Tabernero
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Sara Sopena
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Josep Gregori
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Liver Unit, Liver Disease Laboratory-Viral Hepatitis, Vall d’Hebron Institut Recerca-Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
- Roche Diagnostics SL, Sant Cugat del Vallès 08174, Spain
| | - Maria Francesca Cortese
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
- Liver Unit, Liver Disease Laboratory-Viral Hepatitis, Vall d’Hebron Institut Recerca-Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Carolina González
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Rosario Casillas
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Marçal Yll
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
- Liver Unit, Liver Disease Laboratory-Viral Hepatitis, Vall d’Hebron Institut Recerca-Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Ariadna Rando
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Rosa López-Martínez
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Josep Quer
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Liver Unit, Liver Disease Laboratory-Viral Hepatitis, Vall d’Hebron Institut Recerca-Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | | | - Rafael Esteban
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Mar Riveiro-Barciela
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Maria Buti
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Francisco Rodríguez-Frías
- Liver Pathology Unit, Departments of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
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Brancaccio G, Fasano M, Grossi A, Santantonio TA, Gaeta GB. Clinical outcomes in patients with hepatitis D, cirrhosis and persistent hepatitis B virus replication, and receiving long-term tenofovir or entecavir. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2019; 49:1071-1076. [PMID: 30793345 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suppression of hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication with nucelos(t)ide analogues should be considered for patients with chronic hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection and ongoing HBV replication. AIM To verify the clinical outcome after long-term entecavir or tenofovir treatment in patients with advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis, ineligible to peg-interferon therapy. METHODS Patients were prospectively followed-up at 3-6 month intervals; measured outcomes were decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), liver transplant and liver related death. HBV monoinfected patients receiving the same treatment served as reference after 1:1 matching by age, gender, platelet count, albumin level, bilirubin and INR. RESULTS 56 HDV patients (48 with cirrhosis; median follow-up 50 months) were enrolled; all achieved HBV DNA suppression. Death or liver transplant occurred in 19 patients, with a rate (n/1000 patient-months) of 2.92 in HDV patients vs 0.38 in HBV monoinfected patients (P < 0.001); similarly, decompensation occurred at a rate of 1.53 vs 0.13 (P = 0.015), respectively, and the rate of HCC was almost thrice in HDV cohort (3.12 vs 1.12; P = 0.02) Platelet count, Child-Pugh score and marginally HDV infection were associated with HCC development. CONCLUSION Patients with HDV infection and advanced liver disease maintain an increased risk of severe clinical events as compared with HBV monoinfected patients, during prolonged HBV DNA suppression with potent NA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Brancaccio
- Infectious Diseases, Campania University "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Massimo Fasano
- Infectious Diseases, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Adriano Grossi
- Infectious Diseases, Campania University "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni B Gaeta
- Infectious Diseases, Campania University "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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36
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Mentha N, Clément S, Negro F, Alfaiate D. A review on hepatitis D: From virology to new therapies. J Adv Res 2019; 17:3-15. [PMID: 31193285 PMCID: PMC6526199 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2019.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective virus that requires the hepatitis B virus (HBV) to complete its life cycle in human hepatocytes. HDV virions contain an envelope incorporating HBV surface antigen protein and a ribonucleoprotein containing the viral circular single-stranded RNA genome associated with both forms of hepatitis delta antigen, the only viral encoded protein. Replication is mediated by the host cell DNA-dependent RNA polymerases. HDV infects up to72 million people worldwide and is associated with an increased risk of severe and rapidly progressive liver disease. Pegylated interferon-alpha is still the only available treatment for chronic hepatitis D, with poor tolerance and dismal success rate. Although the development of antivirals inhibiting the viral replication is challenging, as HDV does not possess its own polymerase, several antiviral molecules targeting other steps of the viral life cycle are currently under clinical development: Myrcludex B, which blocks HDV entry into hepatocytes, lonafarnib, a prenylation inhibitor that prevents virion assembly, and finally REP 2139, which is thought to inhibit HBsAg release from hepatocytes and interact with hepatitis delta antigen. This review updates the epidemiology, virology and management of HDV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Mentha
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Clément
- Division of Clinical Pathology, Geneva University Hospitals, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Negro
- Division of Clinical Pathology, Geneva University Hospitals, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dulce Alfaiate
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
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37
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Giersch K, Bhadra OD, Volz T, Allweiss L, Riecken K, Fehse B, Lohse AW, Petersen J, Sureau C, Urban S, Dandri M, Lütgehetmann M. Hepatitis delta virus persists during liver regeneration and is amplified through cell division both in vitro and in vivo. Gut 2019; 68:150-157. [PMID: 29217749 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2017-314713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) was shown to persist for weeks in the absence of HBV and for months after liver transplantation, demonstrating the ability of HDV to persevere in quiescent hepatocytes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of cell proliferation on HDV persistence in vitro and in vivo. DESIGN Genetically labelled human sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (hNTCP)-transduced human hepatoma(HepG2) cells were infected with HBV/HDV and passaged every 7 days for 100 days in the presence of the entry inhibitor Myrcludex-B. In vivo, cell proliferation was triggered by transplanting primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) isolated from HBV/HDV-infected humanised mice into naïve recipients. Virological parameters were measured by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Hepatitis delta antigen (HDAg), hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) and cell proliferation were determined by immunofluorescence. RESULTS Despite 15 in vitro cell passages and block of viral spreading by Myrcludex-B, clonal cell expansion permitted amplification of HDV infection. In vivo, expansion of PHHs isolated from HBV/HDV-infected humanised mice was confirmed 3 days, 2, 4 and 8 weeks after transplantation. While HBV markers rapidly dropped in proliferating PHHs, HDAg-positive hepatocytes were observed among dividing cells at all time points. Notably, HDAg-positive cells appeared in clusters, indicating that HDV was transmitted to daughter cells during liver regeneration even in the absence of de novo infection. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that HDV persists during liver regeneration by transmitting HDV RNA to dividing cells even in the absence of HBV coinfection. The strong persistence capacities of HDV may also explain why HDV clearance is difficult to achieve in HBV/HDV chronically infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Giersch
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Oliver D Bhadra
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tassilo Volz
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lena Allweiss
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kristoffer Riecken
- Department of Stem Cell transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Boris Fehse
- Department of Stem Cell transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel and Heidelberg Partner sites, Germany
| | - Joerg Petersen
- IFI Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine, Asklepios Clinic St. Georg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Camille Sureau
- Laboratoirede Virologie Moleculaire, INTS, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France
| | - Stephan Urban
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel and Heidelberg Partner sites, Germany.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maura Dandri
- I. Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel and Heidelberg Partner sites, Germany
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- Institute of Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Chen M, Du D, Zheng W, Liao M, Zhang L, Liang G, Gong M. Small hepatitis delta antigen selectively binds to target mRNA in hepatic cells: a potential mechanism by which hepatitis D virus downregulates glutathione S-transferase P1 and induces liver injury and hepatocarcinogenesis. Biochem Cell Biol 2018; 97:130-139. [PMID: 30153423 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2017-0321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver coinfection by hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV) can result in a severe form of hepatocellular carcinoma with poor prognosis. Coinfection with HDV and HBV causes more deleterious effects than infection with HBV alone. Clinical research has shown that glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1), a tumor suppressor gene, is typically downregulated in liver samples from hepatitis-infected patients. In the present study, our data indicated that small HDV antigen (s-HDAg) could specifically bind to GSTP1 mRNA and significantly downregulate GSTP1 protein expression. For the human fetal hepatocyte cell line L-02, cells transfected with s-HDAg, along with decreased GSTP1 expression, there was a significant accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased apoptotic ratios. Restoring GSTP1 expression through silencing s-HDAg via RNAi or overexpressing exogenous GSTP1 could largely recover the abnormal cell status. Our results revealed a novel potential mechanism of HDV-induced liver injury and hepatocarcinogenesis: s-HDAg can inhibit GSTP1 expression by directly binding to GSTP1 mRNA, which leads to accumulation of cellular ROS, resulting in high cellular apoptotic ratios and increased selective pressure for malignant transformation. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine s-HDAg-specific pathogenic mechanisms through potential protein-RNA interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mianzhi Chen
- a Huaxi-Washington Mitochondria and Metabolism Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Dan Du
- a Huaxi-Washington Mitochondria and Metabolism Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wen Zheng
- a Huaxi-Washington Mitochondria and Metabolism Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Mingheng Liao
- b Department of Liver Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- a Huaxi-Washington Mitochondria and Metabolism Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ge Liang
- a Huaxi-Washington Mitochondria and Metabolism Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Meng Gong
- a Huaxi-Washington Mitochondria and Metabolism Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Ricco G, Popa DC, Cavallone D, Iacob S, Salvati A, Tabacelia D, Oliveri F, Mascolo G, Bonino F, Yuan Q, Xia NS, Gheorghe L, Brunetto MR. Quantification of serum markers of hepatitis B (HBV) and Delta virus (HDV) infections in patients with chronic HDV infection. J Viral Hepat 2018; 25:911-919. [PMID: 29577518 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The interplay between hepatitis B (HBV) and delta (HDV) viruses is complex and not always characterized during chronic HDV infection. We assessed the clinical usefulness of new quantitative assays for HBV and HDV serum markers in a retrospective cross-sectional study. Sera obtained from 122 HDV genotype 1 and HBV genotype D coinfected, anti-HIV-negative patients (71 males; median age 49.8 [21.7-66.9] years), recruited consecutively in two geographical areas (Italy 69 patients, Romania 53 patients) with different HBV and HDV epidemiology, were tested for HBsAg, HBV-DNA, HBcrAg, total anti-HBc, HDV-RNA, IgM and total anti-HDV using quantitative assays. Cirrhosis, which showed comparable prevalence in the two cohorts, was diagnosed in 97 of 122 (79.5%) patients. At multivariate analysis, cirrhosis was associated with lower total anti-HBc/IgM anti-HDV ratio (OR 0.990, 95% CI 0.981-0.999, P = .038), whereas disease activity was associated with higher total anti-HDV (OR 10.105, 95% CI 1.671-61.107, P = .012) and HDV-RNA levels (OR 2.366, 95% CI 1.456-3.844, P = .001). HDV-RNA serum levels showed a positive correlation with HBV-DNA (ρ = 0.276, P = .005), HBsAg (ρ = 0.404, P < .001) and HBcrAg (ρ = 0.332, P < .001). The combined quantitative profiling of HBV and HDV serum markers identifies specific patterns associated with activity and stage of chronic hepatitis D (CHD). HDV pathogenicity depends on the underlying active HBV infection in spite of the inhibition of its replication. HDV-RNA, IgM anti-HDV, total anti-HDV, total anti-HBc, HBsAg and HBcrAg serum levels qualify for prospective studies to predict progressive CHD and identify candidates to antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Ricco
- Hepatology Unit and Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Pathology of Hepatitis Viruses, Reference Center of the Tuscany Region for Chronic Liver Disease and Cancer, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - D C Popa
- Department of Biochemistry, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,Bone Marrow Transplant Laboratory, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - D Cavallone
- Hepatology Unit and Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Pathology of Hepatitis Viruses, Reference Center of the Tuscany Region for Chronic Liver Disease and Cancer, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Iacob
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,Center for Digestive Diseases and Liver Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Salvati
- Hepatology Unit and Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Pathology of Hepatitis Viruses, Reference Center of the Tuscany Region for Chronic Liver Disease and Cancer, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - D Tabacelia
- Center for Digestive Diseases and Liver Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - F Oliveri
- Hepatology Unit and Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Pathology of Hepatitis Viruses, Reference Center of the Tuscany Region for Chronic Liver Disease and Cancer, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - G Mascolo
- Dia.Pro Diagnostic Bioprobes Srl, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - F Bonino
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Institute for Health, Chianciano Terme, Siena and Fondazione Italiana Fegato (FIF), AREA Science Park, Trieste, Italy
| | - Q Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - N-S Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - L Gheorghe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,Center for Digestive Diseases and Liver Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - M R Brunetto
- Hepatology Unit and Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Pathology of Hepatitis Viruses, Reference Center of the Tuscany Region for Chronic Liver Disease and Cancer, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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40
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Freitas N, Lukash T, Gunewardena S, Chappell B, Slagle BL, Gudima SO. Relative Abundance of Integrant-Derived Viral RNAs in Infected Tissues Harvested from Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Carriers. J Virol 2018; 92:e02221-17. [PMID: 29491161 PMCID: PMC5923063 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02221-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Five matching sets of nonmalignant liver tissues and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) samples from individuals chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) were examined. The HBV genomic sequences were determined by using overlapping PCR amplicons covering the entire viral genome. Four pairs of tissues were infected with HBV genotype C, while one pair was infected with HBV genotype B. HBV replication markers were found in all tissues. In the majority of HCC samples, the levels of pregenomic/precore RNA (pgRNA) and covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) were lower than those in liver tissue counterparts. Regardless of the presence of HBV replication markers, (i) integrant-derived HBV RNAs (id-RNAs) were found in all tissues by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) analysis and were considerably abundant or predominant in 6/10 tissue samples (2 liver and 4 HCC samples), (ii) RNAs that were polyadenylated using the cryptic HBV polyadenylation signal and therefore could be produced by HBV replication or derived from integrated HBV DNA were found in 5/10 samples (3 liver and 2 HCC samples) and were considerably abundant species in 3/10 tissues (2 livers and 1 HCC), and (iii) cccDNA-transcribed RNAs polyadenylated near position 1931 were not abundant in 7/10 tissues (2 liver and 5 HCC samples) and were predominant in only two liver samples. Subsequent RNA sequencing analysis of selected liver/HCC samples also showed relative abundance of id-RNAs in most of the examined tissues. Our findings suggesting that id-RNAs could represent a significant source of HBV envelope proteins, which is independent of viral replication, are discussed in the context of the possible contribution of id-RNAs to the HBV life cycle.IMPORTANCE The relative abundance of integrant-derived HBV RNAs (id-RNAs) in chronically infected tissues suggest that id-RNAs coding for the envelope proteins may facilitate the production of a considerable fraction of surface antigens (HBsAg) in infected cells bearing HBV integrants. If the same cells support HBV replication, then a significant fraction of assembled HBV virions could bear id-RNA-derived HBsAg as a major component of their envelopes. Therefore, the infectivity of these HBV virions and their ability to facilitate virus cell-to-cell spread could be determined mainly by the properties of id-RNA-derived envelope proteins and not by the properties of replication-derived HBsAg. These interpretations suggest that id-RNAs may play a role in the maintenance of chronic HBV infection and therefore contribute to the HBV life cycle. Furthermore, the production of HBsAg from id-RNAs independently of viral replication may explain at least in part why treatment with interferon or nucleos(t)ides in most cases fails to achieve a loss of serum HBsAg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Freitas
- Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Tetyana Lukash
- Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Sumedha Gunewardena
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Benjamin Chappell
- Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Betty L Slagle
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Severin O Gudima
- Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
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Baig S, Abidi SH, Azam Z, Majid S, Khan S, Khanani MR, Ali S. Evolution of HBV S-gene in the backdrop of HDV co-infection. J Med Virol 2018; 90:1328-1336. [PMID: 29663447 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.25200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
HBV-HDV co-infected people have a higher chance of developing cirrhosis, fulminant hepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared to those infected only with HBV. The present study was conducted to investigate HBV genotypes and phylogeny among HBV mono-infected and HBV-HDV co-infected patients, as well as analyze mutations in the surface gene of HBV in mono-infected and co-infected patients. A total of 100 blood samples (50 co-infected with HBV and HDV, and 50 mono-infected with HBV only) were collected for this study. HBV DNA was extracted from patient sera and partial surface antigen gene was amplified from HBV genome using polymerase chain reaction. HBV S gene was sequenced from 49 mono-infected and 36 co-infected patients and analyzed to identify HBV genotypes and phylogenetic patterns. Subsequently, HBV S amino acid sequences were analyzed for mutational differences between sequences from mono- and co-infected patients. HBV genotype D was predominantly found in both mono-infected as well as co-infected patients. Phylogenetic analysis showed the divergence of HBV sequences, between mono- and co-infected patients, into two distinct clusters. HBV S gene mutation analysis revealed certain mutations in HBV-HDV co-infected subjects to be distinct from those found in mono-infected patients. This might indicate the evolution of HBV S gene under selection pressures generated from HDV coinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samina Baig
- Department of Microbiology, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syed H Abidi
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zahid Azam
- National Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shahid Majid
- National Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Saeed Khan
- Department of Pathology and Dow Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad R Khanani
- Department of Pathology and Dow Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syed Ali
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Nazarbayev School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan.,Department of Pathology, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
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Elzouki AN, Bashir SM, Elahmer O, Elzouki I, Alkhattali F. Prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis D virus infection in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection attending the three main tertiary hospitals in Libya. Arab J Gastroenterol 2017; 18:216-219. [PMID: 29241726 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajg.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Globally, More than 350 million individuals are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), and >20 million of them are co-infected with hepatitis D virus (HDV). The aim of this study was to determine the pattern of HDV infection in patients with chronic hepatitis B in three main tertiary hospitals in Tripoli and Benghazi, Libya. PATIENTS AND METHODS This cross sectional and descriptive study was conducted on 162 patients with chronic hepatitis B positive for more than six months) who were followed up at hepatitis clinics of the three main tertiary hospitals in Tripoli city (88 patients from Tripoli Medical Centre and Tripoli Central Hospital) and Benghazi city (74 patients from Aljomhoria Hospital) during the period from January 2010 to June 2012. HBV and HDV markers were detected by enzyme linked fluorescent assay (ELFA) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and HBV-DNA was quantified by real-time PCR techniques. RESULTS The mean age of patients was 36,92 ± 15,35. One hundred and three (63.6%) of them were males and 59 (36,4%) were females. Four patients (2,5%) were tested positive for anti-HD antibodies, all of them have had clinical and/or histological diagnosis of cirrhosis. In multivariable regression analysis, age (p = .04), elevation of serum ALT (p = .03), elevation of serum AST (p = .04), and presence of cirrhosis (p = .003) were significantly related to HDV seropositivity. CONCLUSION Although the study demonstrated that Libya has low to moderate prevalence of HDV (2,5%), it is important for policy makers and health care providers to continue the preventive measures for HDV spread, and HBV prevention program including utilization of HBV vaccine. Furthermore, it is imperative to screen chronic HBV patients for HDV for close observation for early diagnosis of subsequent development of liver cirrhosis. Moreover, further epidemiologic and genetic studies are needed to explore the trend for HDV infection in Libya.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saleh M Bashir
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Omar Elahmer
- National Center for Disease Control, Tripoli, Libya
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Dandri M, Petersen J. Mechanism of Hepatitis B Virus Persistence in Hepatocytes and Its Carcinogenic Potential. Clin Infect Dis 2017; 62 Suppl 4:S281-8. [PMID: 27190317 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciw023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver disease associated with persistent infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) continues to be a major health problem of global impact. Despite the existence of an effective vaccine, at least 240 million people are chronically infected worldwide, and are at risk of developing liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although chronic HBV infection is considered the main risk factor for liver cancer development, the molecular mechanisms determining persistence of infection and long-term pathogenesis are not fully elucidated but appear to be multifactorial. Current therapeutic regimens based on the use of polymerase inhibitors can efficiently suppress viral replication but are unable to eradicate the infection. This is due both to the persistence of the HBV genome, which forms a stable minichromosome, the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), in the nucleus of infected hepatocytes, as well as to the inability of the immune system to efficiently counteract chronic HBV infection. In this regard, the unique replication strategies adopted by HBV and viral protein production also appear to contribute to infection persistence by limiting the effectiveness of innate responses. The availability of improved experimental systems and molecular techniques have started to provide new information about the complex network of interactions that HBV establishes within the hepatocyte and that may contribute to disease progression and tumor development. Thus, this review will mostly focus on events involving the hepatocyte: the only target cell where HBV infection and replication take place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Dandri
- I Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel site
| | - Joerg Petersen
- IFI Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine, Asklepios Clinic St Georg, Hamburg, Germany
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44
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Belyhun Y, Liebert UG, Maier M. Clade homogeneity and low rate of delta virus despite hyperendemicity of hepatitis B virus in Ethiopia. Virol J 2017; 14:176. [PMID: 28899424 PMCID: PMC5596854 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-017-0844-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although hepatitis B virus (HBV) is hyperendemic and heterogeneous in its genetic diversity in Ethiopia, little is known about hepatitis D virus (HDV) circulating genotypes and molecular diversity. Methods A total of 321 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positives (125 HIV co-infected, 102 liver disease patients and 94 blood donors) were screened for anti-HDV antibody. The anti-HDV positive sera were subjected to Real time PCR for HDV-RNA confirmation. The non coding genome region (spanning from 467 to 834 nucleotides) commonly used for HDV genotyping as well as complete HDV genome were sequenced for genotyping and molecular analysis. Results The anti-HDV antibody was found to be 3.2% (3) in blood donors, 8.0% (10) in HIV co-infected individuals and 12.7% (13) in liver disease patients. None of the HIV co-infected patients who revealed HBV lamivudine (3TC) resistance at tyrosine-methionine/isoleucine-aspartate-aspartate (YM(I)DD) reverse transcriptase (RT) motif with concomitant vaccine escape gene mutants was positive for anti-HDV antibody. The HDV viremia rate was 33.3%, 30.0% and 23.1% in respect to the above study groups. All the six isolates sequenced were phylogenetically classified as HDV genotype 1 (HDV-1) and grouped into two monophyletic clusters. Amino acid (aa) residues analysis of clathrin heavy chain (CHC) domain and the isoprenylation signal site (Py) at 19 carboxyl (C)-terminal amino acids (aa 196–214) and the HDV RNA binding domain (aa 79–107) were highly conserved and showed a very little nucleotide variations. All the sequenced isolates showed serine at amino acid position 202. The RNA editing targets of the anti-genomic HDV RNA (nt1012) and its corresponding genomic RNA (nt 580) showed nucleotides A and C, respectively. Conclusions The low seroprevalence and viraemic rates of HDV in particular during HIV-confection might be highly affected by HBV drug resistance selected HBsAg mutant variants in this setting, although HDV-1 sequences analysis revealed clade homogeneity and highly conserved structural and functional domains. Thus, the potential role of HBV drug resistance associated polymerase mutations and concomitant HBsAg protein variability on HDV viral assembly, secretion and infectivity needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeshambel Belyhun
- Institute of Virology, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, 04103, Leipzig, Germany. .,School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Uwe Gerd Liebert
- Institute of Virology, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Melanie Maier
- Institute of Virology, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Johannisallee 30, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
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Lebossé F, Testoni B, Fresquet J, Facchetti F, Galmozzi E, Fournier M, Hervieu V, Berthillon P, Berby F, Bordes I, Durantel D, Levrero M, Lampertico P, Zoulim F. Intrahepatic innate immune response pathways are downregulated in untreated chronic hepatitis B. J Hepatol 2017; 66:897-909. [PMID: 28043874 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Revised: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatitis B virus (HBV) persistence and the pathobiology of chronic HBV (CHB) infections result from the interplay between viral replication and host immune responses. We aimed to comprehensively analyse the expression of intrahepatic host genes as well as serum and liver HBV markers in a large cohort of untreated CHB patients. METHODS One-hundred and five CHB patients untreated at the time of liver biopsy (34 HBeAg[+] and 71 HBeAg[-]) were analysed for the intrahepatic expression profile of 67 genes belonging to multiple innate immunity pathways. Results were correlated to serological (quantification of HBsAg [qHBsAg] and HBV DNA) and intrahepatic viral markers (total HBV DNA, pre-genomic RNA and covalently closed circular HBV DNA). RESULTS Intrahepatic gene expression profiling revealed a strong downregulation of antiviral effectors, interferon stimulated genes, Toll-like and pathogen recognition receptor pathways in CHB patients as compared to non-infected controls, which was not directly correlated to HBV replication. A subset of genes [CXCL10, GBP1, IFITM1, IFNB1, IL10, IL6, ISG15, TLR3, SOCS1, SOCS3] was more repressed in HBeAg(-) respect to HBeAg(+) patients (median of serum HBV DNA 7.9×103vs. 7.9×107IU/ml, respectively). Notably, HBeAg(-) patients with lower qHBsAg (<5×103IU/ml) showed a relief of repression of genes belonging to multiple pathways. CONCLUSIONS Our results show a strong impairment of innate immune responses in the liver of CHB patients. The association of low levels of qHBsAg with gene repression, if confirmed, might prove useful for the identification of patients who would most benefit from immune-modulators and/or HBsAg targeting agents as strategies to restore immune responsiveness. LAY SUMMARY Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections represent a major public health problem worldwide. Over 200 million people are chronically infected and at risk of developing chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and cancer. Our work aimed to understand the molecular consequences of chronic hepatitis B in the infected liver. It was conducted in a large cohort of untreated chronically infected HBV patients and analysed the expression of immunity and liver disease-related genes in the liver, with respect to markers of viral replication and persistence. Our results indicate that chronic HBV infection has a suppressive effect on immune responses, which was more pronounced with high levels of hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg). These data provide novel insight into the mechanisms of HBV persistence in the liver and suggest that approaches aimed at reducing HBsAg levels, may restore immune responsiveness against the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Lebossé
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; Department of Hepatology, Croix Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, France; University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Judith Fresquet
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Floriana Facchetti
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Galmozzi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maëlenn Fournier
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Valérie Hervieu
- University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008 Lyon, France; Department of Pathology, Edouard Heriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, France
| | | | - Françoise Berby
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Isabelle Bordes
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France
| | - David Durantel
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Massimo Levrero
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; Department of Hepatology, Croix Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, France; Department of Internal Medicine - DMISM and the IIT Center for Life Nanoscience (CLNS), Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Lampertico
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; Department of Hepatology, Croix Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, France; University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008 Lyon, France.
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46
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Alfaiate D, Miaglia C, Zoulim F. Hépatite delta : aspects cliniques et perspectives thérapeutiques. Presse Med 2017; 46:271-281. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2016.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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47
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Bahcecioglu IH, Sahin A. Treatment of Delta Hepatitis: Today and in the Future - A review. Infect Dis (Lond) 2017; 49:241-250. [DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2016.1271998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdurrahman Sahin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Medicine Faculty, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
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48
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Zhang Q, Matsuura K, Kleiner DE, Zamboni F, Alter HJ, Farci P. Analysis of long noncoding RNA expression in hepatocellular carcinoma of different viral etiology. J Transl Med 2016; 14:328. [PMID: 27894309 PMCID: PMC5125040 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-016-1085-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysregulation of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) expression contributes to the pathogenesis of many human diseases, including liver diseases. Several lncRNAs have been reported to play a role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, most studies have analyzed lncRNAs only in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related HCC or in a single group of HCC patients regardless of the viral etiology. METHODS To investigate whether lncRNAs are differentially expressed in HCC of different viral etiology, we profiled 101 disease-related lncRNAs, including 25 lncRNAs previously associated with HCC, in liver specimens obtained from well-characterized patients with HBV-, hepatitis C virus (HCV)-, or hepatitis D virus (HDV)-associated HCC. RESULTS We identified eight novel HCC-related lncRNAs that were significantly dysregulated in HCC tissues compared to their surrounding non-tumorous tissues. Some of these lncRNAs were significantly dysregulated predominantly in one specific hepatitis virus-related HCC, including PCAT-29 in HBV-related HCC, aHIF and PAR5 in HCV-related HCC, and Y3 in HDV-related HCC. Among the lncRNAs previously reported in HCC, we found that DBH-AS1, hDREH and hPVT1 were differentially expressed in HCC of different viral etiology. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that HCC of different viral etiology is regulated by different lncRNAs. The identification of lncRNAs unique to specific hepatitis virus-related HCC may provide new tools for improving the diagnosis of HCC and open new avenues for disease-specific therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zhang
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Hepatic Pathogenesis Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.,Department of Experimental Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Kentaro Matsuura
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Warren G. Magnuson Clinical Center, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - David E Kleiner
- Laboratory of Pathology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Fausto Zamboni
- Liver Transplantation Center, Brotzu Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Harvey J Alter
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Warren G. Magnuson Clinical Center, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Patrizia Farci
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Hepatic Pathogenesis Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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49
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Alfaiate D, Lucifora J, Abeywickrama-Samarakoon N, Michelet M, Testoni B, Cortay JC, Sureau C, Zoulim F, Dény P, Durantel D. HDV RNA replication is associated with HBV repression and interferon-stimulated genes induction in super-infected hepatocytes. Antiviral Res 2016; 136:19-31. [PMID: 27771387 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2016.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) super-infection of Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected patients is the most aggressive form of viral hepatitis. HDV infection is not susceptible to direct anti-HBV drugs, and only suboptimal antiviral responses are obtained with interferon (IFN)-alpha-based therapy. To get insights on HDV replication and interplay with HBV in physiologically relevant hepatocytes, differentiated HepaRG (dHepaRG) cells, previously infected or not with HBV, were infected with HDV, and viral markers were extensively analyzed. Innate and IFN responses to HDV were monitored by measuring pro-inflammatory and interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) expression. Both mono- and super-infected dHepaRG cells supported a strong HDV intracellular replication, which was accompanied by a strong secretion of infectious HDV virions only in the super-infection setting and despite the low number of co-infected cells. Upon HDV super-infection, HBV replication markers including HBeAg, total HBV-DNA and pregenomic RNA were significantly decreased, confirming the interference of HDV on HBV. Yet, no decrease of circular covalently closed HBV DNA (cccDNA) and HBsAg levels was evidenced. At the peak of HDV-RNA accumulation and onset of interference on HBV replication, a strong type-I IFN response was observed, with interferon stimulated genes, RSAD2 (Viperin) and IFI78 (MxA) being highly induced. We established a cellular model to characterize in more detail the direct interference of HBV and HDV, and the indirect interplay between the two viruses via innate immune responses. This model will be instrumental to assess molecular and immunological mechanisms of this viral interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dulce Alfaiate
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Julie Lucifora
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), 69008 Lyon, France.
| | - Natali Abeywickrama-Samarakoon
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Maud Michelet
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Jean-Claude Cortay
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Camille Sureau
- Institut National de Transfusion Sanguine, Laboratoire de Virologie Moléculaire, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), 69008 Lyon, France; Laboratoire d'excellence (LabEx), DEVweCAN, 69008 Lyon, France; Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), 69002 Lyon, France
| | - Paul Dény
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; Université Paris 13/SPC, UFR SMBH, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Virologie - Hygiène, GHU Paris Seine Saint Denis, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Bobigny, France.
| | - David Durantel
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008 Lyon, France; University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), 69008 Lyon, France; Laboratoire d'excellence (LabEx), DEVweCAN, 69008 Lyon, France.
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50
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Impact of non-neoplastic vs intratumoural hepatitis B viral DNA and replication on hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence. Br J Cancer 2016; 115:841-7. [PMID: 27537392 PMCID: PMC5046201 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2016.239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aims to determine the impact of intracellular hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA, covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) and viral replicative activity in both tumour and non-neoplastic liver on prognosis and to determine the relationship of viral replicative activity and Ishak fibrosis in predicting outcome following resection. Methods: A total of 99 prospectively enrolled patients treated with primary liver resection for HBV-HCC are included. Intracellular HBV DNA and cccDNA were quantitated by real-time PCR. The RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed in a subset of 21 patients who had either minimal liver fibrosis (Ishak stages 0–2) or end-stage fibrosis (Ishak stage 6). Results: Tumour tissue contained a lower cccDNA copy number compared with paired non-neoplastic liver, and larger tumours (>3 cm) had less cccDNA compared with small tumours (⩽3 cm). High viral replicative activity in non-neoplastic liver was associated with higher HCC recurrence rate independent of Ishak fibrosis stage. Genes correlated with viral replicative activity in non-neoplastic liver (620 genes) were distinct from those associated with end-stage fibrosis (1226 genes). Genes associated with viral replicative activity were preferentially distributed in regions on chr3, chr16 and chr19. Conclusions: Viral replicative activity in non-neoplastic liver is associated with HCC recurrence through mechanisms that are distinct from and independent of Ishak fibrosis stage.
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