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Wang J, Li Q, Qiu Y, Kitanovski S, Wang C, Zhang C, Li F, Li X, Zhang Z, Huang L, Zhang J, Hoffmann D, Lu M, Lu H. Cell-type-specific expression analysis of liver transcriptomics with clinical parameters to decipher the cause of intrahepatic inflammation in chronic hepatitis B. IMETA 2024; 3:e221. [PMID: 39135698 PMCID: PMC11316924 DOI: 10.1002/imt2.221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Functional cure for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains challenging due to the lack of direct intervention methods for hepatic inflammation. Multi-omics research offers a promising approach to understand hepatic inflammation mechanisms in CHB. A Bayesian linear model linked gene expression with clinical parameters, and population-specific expression analysis (PSEA) refined bulk gene expression into specific cell types across different clinical phases. These models were integrated into our analysis of key factors like inflammatory cells, immune activation, T cell exhaustion, chemokines, receptors, and interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Validation through multi-immune staining in liver specimens from CHB patients bolstered our findings. In CHB patients, increased gene expression related to immune cell activation and migration was noted. Marker genes of macrophages, T cells, immune-negative regulators, chemokines, and ISGs showed a positive correlation with serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels but not hepatitis B virus DNA levels. The PSEA model confirmed T cells as the source of exhausted regulators, while macrophages primarily contributed to chemokine expression. Upregulated ISGs (ISG20, IFI16, TAP2, GBP1, PSMB9) in the hepatitis phase were associated with T cell and macrophage infiltration and positively correlated with ALT levels. Conversely, another set of ISGs (IFI44, ISG15, IFI44L, IFI6, MX1) mainly expressed by hepatocytes and B cells showed no correlation with ALT levels. Our study presents a multi-omics analysis integrating bulk transcriptomic, single-cell sequencing data, and clinical data from CHB patients to decipher the cause of intrahepatic inflammation in CHB. The findings confirm that macrophages secrete chemokines like CCL20, recruiting exhausted T cells into liver tissue; concurrently, hepatocyte innate immunity is suppressed, hindering the antiviral effects of ISGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesThe Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen and The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital of EssenUniversity of Duisburg‐EssenEssenGermany
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Fifth People's Hospital of WuxiJiangnan UniversityWuxiChina
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Center for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB)University of Duisburg‐EssenEssenGermany
| | - Qian Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesThe Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen and The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital of EssenUniversity of Duisburg‐EssenEssenGermany
| | - Yuanwang Qiu
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Fifth People's Hospital of WuxiJiangnan UniversityWuxiChina
| | - Simo Kitanovski
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Center for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB)University of Duisburg‐EssenEssenGermany
| | - Chen Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesThe Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen and The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
| | - Chenxia Zhang
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Fifth People's Hospital of WuxiJiangnan UniversityWuxiChina
| | - Fahong Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, Department of Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Huashan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Fifth People's Hospital of WuxiJiangnan UniversityWuxiChina
| | - Zhenfeng Zhang
- School of Public Health and Emergency ManagementSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
| | - Lihua Huang
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Fifth People's Hospital of WuxiJiangnan UniversityWuxiChina
| | - Jiming Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, Department of Infectious DiseasesNational Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Huashan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Daniel Hoffmann
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Center for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB)University of Duisburg‐EssenEssenGermany
| | - Mengji Lu
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesThe Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen and The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital of EssenUniversity of Duisburg‐EssenEssenGermany
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Fifth People's Hospital of WuxiJiangnan UniversityWuxiChina
| | - Hongzhou Lu
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseasesThe Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen and The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
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Li YY, Murai K, Lyu J, Honda M. Roles Played by DOCK11, a Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor, in HBV Entry and Persistence in Hepatocytes. Viruses 2024; 16:745. [PMID: 38793626 PMCID: PMC11125634 DOI: 10.3390/v16050745] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
HBV infection is challenging to cure due to the persistence of viral covalently closed circular viral DNA (cccDNA). The dedicator of cytokinesis 11 (DOCK11) is recognized as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for CDC42 that has been reported to be required for HBV persistence. DOCK11 is expressed in both the cytoplasm and nucleus of human hepatocytes and is functionally associated with retrograde trafficking proteins Arf-GAP with GTPase domain, ankyrin repeat, and pleckstrin homology domain-containing protein 2 (AGAP2), and ADP-ribosylation factor 1 (ARF1), together with the HBV capsid, in the trans-Golgi network (TGN). This opens an alternative retrograde trafficking route for HBV from early endosomes (EEs) to the TGN and then to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), thereby avoiding lysosomal degradation. DOCK11 also facilitates the association of cccDNA with H3K4me3 and RNA Pol II for activating cccDNA transcription. In addition, DOCK11 plays a crucial role in the host DNA repair system, being essential for cccDNA synthesis. This function can be inhibited by 10M-D42AN, a novel DOCK11-binding peptide, leading to the suppression of HBV replication both in vitro and in vivo. Treatment with a combination of 10M-D42AN and entecavir may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Consequently, DOCK11 may be seen as a potential candidate molecule in the development of molecularly targeted drugs against CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Yi Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, 13-1, Takaramachi, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Murai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Health Medicine, 13-1, Takaramachi, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
| | - Junyan Lyu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Health Medicine, 13-1, Takaramachi, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
| | - Masao Honda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, 13-1, Takaramachi, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Health Medicine, 13-1, Takaramachi, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
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Yu X, Gong Q, Yu D, Chen Y, Jing Y, Zoulim F, Zhang X. Spatial transcriptomics reveals a low extent of transcriptionally active hepatitis B virus integration in patients with HBsAg loss. Gut 2024; 73:797-809. [PMID: 37968095 PMCID: PMC11041573 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2023-330577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can integrate into the chromosomes of infected hepatocytes, contributing to the production of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and to hepatocarcinogenesis. In this study, we aimed to explore whether transcriptionally active HBV integration events spread throughout the liver tissue in different phases of chronic HBV infection, especially in patients with HBsAg loss. DESIGN We constructed high-resolution spatial transcriptomes of liver biopsies containing 13 059 tissue spots from 18 patients with chronic HBV infection to analyse the occurrence and relative distribution of transcriptionally active viral integration events. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression of HBsAg and HBV core antigen. Intrahepatic covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) levels were quantified by real-time qPCR. RESULTS Spatial transcriptome sequencing identified the presence of 13 154 virus-host chimeric reads in 7.86% (1026 of 13 059) of liver tissue spots in all patients, including three patients with HBsAg loss. These HBV integration sites were randomly distributed on chromosomes and can localise in host genes involved in hepatocarcinogenesis, such as ALB, CLU and APOB. Patients who were receiving or had received antiviral treatment had a significantly lower percentage of viral integration-containing spots and significantly fewer chimeric reads than treatment-naïve patients. Intrahepatic cccDNA levels correlated well with viral integration events. CONCLUSION Transcriptionally active HBV integration occurred in chronically HBV-infected patients at different phases, including in patients with HBsAg loss. Antiviral treatment was associated with a decreased number and extent of transcriptionally active viral integrations, implying that early treatment intervention may further reduce the number of viral integration events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqi Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiming Gong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Demin Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongyan Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Jing
- Center for Intelligent Medicine Research, Greater Bay Area Institute of Precision Medicine (Guangzhou), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, Lyon, France
- Department of Hepatology, Croix Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Xinxin Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Clinical Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
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Zhang X, Lu W, Feng Y, Zhang Z, Yuan Z. A Chromogenic In Situ Hybridization (CISH) Assay for Detection of HBV RNA, DNA, and cccDNA in Liver Tissue. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2837:137-148. [PMID: 39044081 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4027-2_12] [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] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) developed highly intricates mechanisms exploiting host resources for its multiplication within a constrained genetic coding capacity. With the aid of a series of classical analytical methods such as ultrafiltration, and Southern and Northern blots, a general framework of HBV life cycle has been established. However, this picture still lacks many key histological contexts which involves pathophysiological changes of hepatocytes, non-parenchymal cells, infiltrated leukocytes, and associated extracellular matrix. Here, we describe a CISH protocol modified from the ViewRNA assay that allows direct visualization of HBV RNA, DNA, and cccDNA in liver tissue of chronic hepatitis B patients. By coupling it with immunohistochemistry and other histological stains, much richer information regarding the HBV-induced pathological changes can be harvested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Zhang
- Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Wei Lu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanling Feng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhanqing Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE & NHC), Research Unit of Cure of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection (CAMS), Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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5
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Zhang X, Yue L, Li C, Yuan Z. A Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) Assay for Detection of HBV RNA, DNA, and cccDNA in Cell Culture. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2837:125-135. [PMID: 39044080 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4027-2_11] [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] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is undoubtedly a master in exploiting host resources while evading host defense for its multiplication within a constrained genetic coding capacity. To further unravel these cunning strategies, a clear picture of virus-host interaction with key subcellular and molecular contexts is needed. Here, we describe a FISH protocol modified from the ViewRNA assay that allows direct visualization of HBV RNA, DNA, and cccDNA in cell culture models (e.g., HepAD38, HepG2-NTCP). It can be coupled with immunofluorescence staining of viral or host proteins or other fluorescent tagging systems which could illuminate numerous aspects of virus-host interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Zhang
- Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Lei Yue
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE & NHC), Research Unit of Cure of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection (CAMS), Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Li
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE & NHC), Research Unit of Cure of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection (CAMS), Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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6
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Doan PTB, Nio K, Shimakami T, Kuroki K, Li YY, Sugimoto S, Takayama H, Okada H, Kaneko S, Honda M, Yamashita T. Super-Resolution Microscopy Analysis of Hepatitis B Viral cccDNA and Host Factors. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051178. [PMID: 37243264 DOI: 10.3390/v15051178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) cannot be cured completely because of the persistence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). We previously found that the host gene dedicator of cytokinesis 11 (DOCK11) was required for HBV persistence. In this study, we further investigated the mechanism that links DOCK11 to other host genes in the regulation of cccDNA transcription. cccDNA levels were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in stable HBV-producing cell lines and HBV-infected PXB-cells®. Interactions between DOCK11 and other host genes were identified by super-resolution microscopy, immunoblotting, and chromatin immunoprecipitation. FISH facilitated the subcellular localization of key HBV nucleic acids. Interestingly, although DOCK11 partially colocalized with histone proteins, such as H3K4me3 and H3K27me3, and nonhistone proteins, such as RNA Pol II, it played limited roles in histone modification and RNA transcription. DOCK11 was functionally involved in regulating the subnuclear distribution of host factors and/or cccDNA, resulting in an increase in cccDNA closely located to H3K4me3 and RNA Pol II for activating cccDNA transcription. Thus, it was suggested that the association of cccDNA-bound Pol II and H3K4me3 required the assistance of DOCK11. DOCK11 facilitated the association of cccDNA with H3K4me3 and RNA Pol II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong Thi Bich Doan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Kouki Nio
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Shimakami
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Kuroki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Ying-Yi Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Saiho Sugimoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Hideo Takayama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Hikari Okada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Shuichi Kaneko
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Masao Honda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Taro Yamashita
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-Machi, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
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Aggarwal A, Odorizzi PM, Brodbeck J, van Buuren N, Moon C, Chang S, Adona M, Suthram S, Suri V, Trowe T, Turner S, Marcellin P, Buti M, Gaggar A, Fletcher SP, Diehl L, Feierbach B, Balsitis S. Intrahepatic quantification of HBV antigens in chronic hepatitis B reveals heterogeneity and treatment-mediated reductions in HBV core-positive cells. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100664. [PMID: 36908748 PMCID: PMC9996321 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100664] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Patterns of liver HBV antigen expression have been described but not quantified at single-cell resolution. We applied quantitative techniques to liver biopsies from individuals with chronic hepatitis B and evaluated sampling heterogeneity, effects of disease stage, and nucleos(t)ide (NUC) treatment, and correlations between liver and peripheral viral biomarkers. Methods Hepatocytes positive for HBV core and HBsAg were quantified using a novel four-plex immunofluorescence assay and image analysis. Biopsies were analysed from HBeAg-positive (n = 39) and HBeAg-negative (n = 75) participants before and after NUC treatment. To evaluate sampling effects, duplicate biopsies collected at the same time point were compared. Serum or plasma samples were evaluated for levels of HBV DNA, HBsAg, hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg), and HBV RNA. Results Diffusely distributed individual HBV core+ cells and foci of HBsAg+ cells were the most common staining patterns. Hepatocytes positive for both HBV core and HBsAg were rare. Paired biopsies revealed large local variation in HBV staining within participants, which was confirmed in a large liver resection. NUC treatment was associated with a >100-fold lower median frequency of HBV core+ cells in HBeAg-positive and HBeAg-negative participants, whereas reductions in HBsAg+ cells were not statistically significant. The frequency of HBV core+ hepatocytes was lower in HBeAg-negative participants than in HBeAg-positive participants at all time points evaluated. Total HBV+ hepatocyte burden correlated with HBcrAg, HBV DNA, and HBV RNA only in baseline HBeAg-positive samples. Conclusions Reductions in HBV core+ hepatocytes were associated with HBeAg-negative status and NUC treatment. Variation in HBV positivity within individual livers was extensive. Correlations between the liver and the periphery were found only between biomarkers likely indicative of cccDNA (HBV core+ and HBcrAg, HBV DNA, and RNA). Impact and Implications HBV infects liver hepatocyte cells, and its genome can exist in two forms that express different sets of viral proteins: a circular genome called cccDNA that can express all viral proteins, including the HBV core and HBsAg proteins, or a linear fragment that inserts into the host genome typically to express HBsAg, but not HBV core. We used new techniques to determine the percentage of hepatocytes expressing the HBV core and HBsAg proteins in a large set of liver biopsies. We find that abundance and patterns of expression differ across patient groups and even within a single liver and that NUC treatment greatly reduces the number of core-expressing hepatocytes.
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Key Words
- ADV, adefovir
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- Biomarkers
- CHB, chronic hepatitis B
- CNN, convolutional neural network
- HBV
- HBV core
- HBV core, hepatitis B core antigen
- HBV, Hepatitis B Virus
- HBcrAg, hepatitis B core-related antigen
- HBeAg
- HBeAg, Hepatitis B e antigen
- HBsAg
- HBsAg, Hepatitis B surface antigen
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- IF, immunofluorescence
- NUC
- NUC, nucleo(t)side
- Na+K+-ATPase, sodium–potassium ATPase
- QC, quality control
- TDF, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate
- cccDNA, covalently closed circular DNA
- dslDNA, double-stranded linear DNA
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Maria Buti
- Hospital Universitario Valle Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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8
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Sun F, Xia W, Ouyang Y. Research progress on detection methods for hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA. J Viral Hepat 2023; 30:366-373. [PMID: 36751941 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13817] [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: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a serious global public health problem, and HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in the nucleus of infected cells cannot be eliminated by current treatments and is a major factor in the persistence and recurrence of hepatitis B. Efficient and scientific detection methods are important for clinical monitoring of cccDNA and targeted drug development. Western blotting is the gold standard for the quantitative detection of cccDNA, but it is time-consuming and complex. In recent years, new detection technologies have been continuously updated. There are new developments and breakthroughs in both next-generation polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and non-PCR methods such as in situ hybridization. Some HBV-related markers (such as hepatitis B core-related antigen) have also been shown to be closely related to cccDNA, and they can be used as surrogate markers to indirectly reflect cccDNA content. In this paper, the main detection methods of cccDNA and their improvements are reviewed, the advantages and limitations of these methods are analysed and summarized, and future development directions are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenglan Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Yaoling Ouyang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
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9
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Nonproductive Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA Generates HBx-Related Transcripts from the HBx/Enhancer I Region and Acquires Reactivation by Superinfection in Single Cells. J Virol 2023; 97:e0171722. [PMID: 36475867 PMCID: PMC9888189 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01717-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a public health problem worldwide. Persistent HBV infection relies on active transcription of the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in hepatocytes, which is less understood at the single-cell level. In this study, we isolated primary human hepatocytes from liver-humanized FRG mice infected with HBV and examined cccDNA transcripts in single cells based on 5' end sequencing. Our 5' transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis unambiguously assigns different viral transcripts with overlapping 3' sequences and quantitatively measures viral transcripts for structural genes (3.5 kb, 2.4 kb, and 2.1 kb) and the nonstructural X gene (0.7 kb and related) in single cells. We found that an infected cell either can generate all viral transcripts, signifying active transcription, or presents only transcripts from the X gene and its associated enhancer I domain and no structural gene transcripts. Results from cell infection assays with recombinant HBV show that nonproductive transcription of cccDNA can be activated by incoming virus through superinfection. Moreover, upon HBV infection, cccDNA apparently can be transcribed in the absence of HBx and produces HBx, needed for productive transcription of other viral genes. These results shed new light on cccDNA transcription at the single-cell level and provide insights useful for improving the treatment strategy against chronic HBV infection. IMPORTANCE Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection can be effectively suppressed but rarely cured by available drugs. Chronic HBV infection is based on persistence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) and continuous infection and reinfection with HBV in the liver. Understanding transcriptional regulation of cccDNA will help to achieve permanent transcriptional silencing, i.e., functional cure of HBV. In our study, we found that an infected cell either can generate all viral transcripts, signifying active transcription, or presents only transcripts from the X gene and its associated enhancer I domain and no structural gene transcripts. The nonproductive transcription of cccDNA can be activated by incoming virus through superinfection. Upon an infection, cccDNA apparently can be transcribed in the absence of HBx to produce HBx, necessary for subsequent transcription of other HBV genes. Our studies shed new light on the mechanism of HBV infection and may have implications for a functional cure regimen for HBV.
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Kramvis A, Chang KM, Dandri M, Farci P, Glebe D, Hu J, Janssen HLA, Lau DTY, Penicaud C, Pollicino T, Testoni B, Van Bömmel F, Andrisani O, Beumont-Mauviel M, Block TM, Chan HLY, Cloherty GA, Delaney WE, Geretti AM, Gehring A, Jackson K, Lenz O, Maini MK, Miller V, Protzer U, Yang JC, Yuen MF, Zoulim F, Revill PA. A roadmap for serum biomarkers for hepatitis B virus: current status and future outlook. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 19:727-745. [PMID: 35859026 PMCID: PMC9298709 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-022-00649-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Globally, 296 million people are infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), and approximately one million people die annually from HBV-related causes, including liver cancer. Although there is a preventative vaccine and antiviral therapies suppressing HBV replication, there is no cure. Intensive efforts are under way to develop curative HBV therapies. Currently, only a few biomarkers are available for monitoring or predicting HBV disease progression and treatment response. As new therapies become available, new biomarkers to monitor viral and host responses are urgently needed. In October 2020, the International Coalition to Eliminate Hepatitis B Virus (ICE-HBV) held a virtual and interactive workshop on HBV biomarkers endorsed by the International HBV Meeting. Various stakeholders from academia, clinical practice and the pharmaceutical industry, with complementary expertise, presented and participated in panel discussions. The clinical utility of both classic and emerging viral and immunological serum biomarkers with respect to the course of infection, disease progression, and response to current and emerging treatments was appraised. The latest advances were discussed, and knowledge gaps in understanding and interpretation of HBV biomarkers were identified. This Roadmap summarizes the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges of HBV biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Kyong-Mi Chang
- The Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center and University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Maura Dandri
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems partner site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Patrizia Farci
- Hepatic Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Dieter Glebe
- National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Institute of Medical Virology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jianming Hu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Harry L A Janssen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daryl T Y Lau
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Capucine Penicaud
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Teresa Pollicino
- Laboratory of Molecular Hepatology, Department of Human Pathology, University Hospital "G. Martino" of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | - Florian Van Bömmel
- Department of Hepatology, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ourania Andrisani
- Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | | | | | - Henry L Y Chan
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
- Union Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | | | | | - Anna Maria Geretti
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fondazione PTV, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Adam Gehring
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kathy Jackson
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Mala K Maini
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Veronica Miller
- Forum for Collaborative Research, University of California Berkeley School of Public Health, Washington DC Campus, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Man-Fung Yuen
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM Unit 1052 - Cancer Research Center of Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon University, Lyon, France
| | - Peter A Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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11
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Hepatitis B Virus Core Protein Is Not Required for Covalently Closed Circular DNA Transcriptional Regulation. J Virol 2022; 96:e0136222. [PMID: 36226986 PMCID: PMC9645219 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01362-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major health burden worldwide, and currently there is no cure. The persistence of HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is the major obstacle for antiviral trement. HBV core protein (HBc) has emerged as a promising antiviral target, as it plays important roles in critical steps of the viral life cycle. However, whether HBc could regulate HBV cccDNA transcription remains under debate. In this study, different approaches were used to address this question. In synthesized HBV cccDNA and HBVcircle transfection assays, lack of HBc showed no effect on transcription of HBV RNA as well as HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) production in a hepatoma cell line and primary human hepatocytes. Reconstitution of HBc did not alter the expression of cccDNA-derived HBV markers. Similar results were obtained from an in vivo mouse model harboring cccDNA. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) or ChIP sequencing assays revealed transcription regulation of HBc-deficient cccDNA chromatin similar to that of wild-type cccDNA. Furthermore, treatment with capsid assembly modulators (CAMs) dramatically reduced extracellular HBV DNA but could not alter viral RNA and HBsAg. Our results demonstrate that HBc neither affects histone modifications and transcription factor binding of cccDNA nor directly influences cccDNA transcription. Although CAMs could reduce HBc binding to cccDNA, they do not suppress cccDNA transcriptional activity. Thus, therapeutics targeting capsid or HBc should not be expected to sufficiently reduce cccDNA transcription. IMPORTANCE Hepatitis B virus (HBV) core protein (HBc) has emerged as a promising antiviral target. However, whether HBc can regulate HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) transcription remains elusive. This study illustrated that HBc has no effect on epigenetic regulation of cccDNA, and it does not participate in cccDNA transcription. Given that HBc is dispensable for cccDNA transcription, novel cccDNA-targeting therapeutics are needed for an HBV cure.
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12
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Wang D, Fu B, Wei H. Advances in Immunotherapy for Hepatitis B. Pathogens 2022; 11:1116. [PMID: 36297173 PMCID: PMC9612046 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a hepatotropic virus with the potential to cause chronic infection, and it is one of the common causes of liver disease worldwide. Chronic HBV infection leads to liver cirrhosis and, ultimately, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The persistence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) and the impaired immune response in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) has been studied over the past few decades. Despite advances in the etiology of HBV and the development of potent virus-suppressing regimens, a cure for HBV has not been found. Both the innate and adaptive branches of immunity contribute to viral eradication. However, immune exhaustion and evasion have been demonstrated during CHB infection, although our understanding of the mechanism is still evolving. Recently, the successful use of an antiviral drug for hepatitis C has greatly encouraged the search for a cure for hepatitis B, which likely requires an approach focused on improving the antiviral immune response. In this review, we discuss our current knowledge of the immunopathogenic mechanisms and immunobiology of HBV infection. In addition, we touch upon why the existing therapeutic approaches may not achieve the goal of a functional cure. We also propose how combinations of new drugs, and especially novel immunotherapies, contribute to HBV clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyao Wang
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
- Blood and Cell Therapy Institute, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medicine and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Blood Research and Applications, Hefei 230001, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Immunology in Chronic Diseases, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - Binqing Fu
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medicine and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
- Blood and Cell Therapy Institute, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medicine and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
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13
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Surrogate Markers for Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA. Semin Liver Dis 2022; 42:327-340. [PMID: 35445388 DOI: 10.1055/a-1830-2741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most common causes of liver disease worldwide. Chronic HBV infection is currently incurable because of the persistence of the viral template for the viral transcripts, covalently closed circular deoxyribonucleic acid (cccDNA). Detecting changes in cccDNA transcriptional activity is key to understanding fundamental virology, determining the efficacy of new therapies, and deciding the optimal clinical management of HBV patients. In this review, we summarize surrogate circulating biomarkers that have been used to infer cccDNA levels and activity in people with chronic hepatitis B. Moreover, we outline the current shortcomings of the current biomarkers and highlight the clinical importance in improving them and expanding their use.
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14
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Bianca C, Sidhartha E, Tiribelli C, El-Khobar KE, Sukowati CHC. Role of hepatitis B virus in development of hepatocellular carcinoma: Focus on covalently closed circular DNA. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:866-884. [PMID: 35721287 PMCID: PMC9157711 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i5.866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major global health problem, especially in developing countries. It may lead to prolonged liver damage, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Persistent chronic HBV infection is related to host immune response and the stability of the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in human hepatocytes. In addition to being essential for viral transcription and replication, cccDNA is also suspected to play a role in persistent HBV infections or hepatitis relapses since cccDNA is very stable in non-dividing human hepatocytes. Understanding the pathogenicity and oncogenicity of HBV components would be essential in the development of new diagnostic tools and treatment strategies. This review summarizes the role and molecular mechanisms of HBV cccDNA in hepatocyte transformation and hepatocarcinogenesis and current efforts to its detection and targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claryssa Bianca
- Department of Biomedicine, Indonesia International Institute for Life Sciences, Jakarta 13210, Indonesia
| | - Elizabeth Sidhartha
- Department of Biomedicine, Indonesia International Institute for Life Sciences, Jakarta 13210, Indonesia
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Centro Studi Fegato, Fondazione Italiana Fegato ONLUS, Trieste 34149, Italy
| | - Korri Elvanita El-Khobar
- Eijkman Center for Molecular Biology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jakarta 10340, Indonesia
| | - Caecilia H C Sukowati
- Centro Studi Fegato, Fondazione Italiana Fegato ONLUS, Trieste 34149, Italy
- Eijkman Center for Molecular Biology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jakarta 10340, Indonesia
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15
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Wang Y, Li Y, Zai W, Hu K, Zhu Y, Deng Q, Wu M, Li Y, Chen J, Yuan Z. HBV covalently closed circular DNA minichromosomes in distinct epigenetic transcriptional states differ in their vulnerability to damage. Hepatology 2022; 75:1275-1288. [PMID: 34779008 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is a major obstacle for a cure of chronic hepatitis B. Accumulating evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications regulate the transcriptional activity of cccDNA minichromosomes. However, it remains unclear how the epigenetic state of cccDNA affects its stability. APPROACHES AND RESULTS By using HBV infection cell models and in vitro and in vivo recombinant cccDNA (rcccDNA) and HBVcircle models, the reduction rate of HBV cccDNA and the efficacy of apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme catalytic subunit 3A (APOBEC3A)-mediated and CRISPR/CRISPR-associated 9 (Cas9)-mediated cccDNA targeting were compared between cccDNAs with distinct transcriptional activities. Interferon-α treatment and hepatitis B x protein (HBx) deletion were applied as two strategies for cccDNA repression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and micrococcal nuclease assays were performed to determine the epigenetic pattern of cccDNA. HBV cccDNA levels remained stable in nondividing hepatocytes; however, they were significantly reduced during cell division, and the reduction rate was similar between cccDNAs in transcriptionally active and transcriptionally repressed states. Strikingly, HBV rcccDNA without HBx expression exhibited a significantly longer persistence in mice. The cccDNA with low transcriptional activity exhibited an epigenetically inactive pattern and was more difficult to access by APOBEC3A and engineered CRISPR-Cas9. The epigenetic regulator activating cccDNA increased its vulnerability to APOBEC3A. CONCLUSIONS HBV cccDNA minichromosomes in distinct epigenetic transcriptional states showed a similar reduction rate during cell division but significantly differed in their accessibility and vulnerability to targeted nucleases and antiviral agents. Epigenetic sensitization of cccDNA makes it more susceptible to damage and may potentially contribute to an HBV cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yumeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Wenjing Zai
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Kongying Hu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yuanfei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Qiang Deng
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina.,Research Unit of Cure of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus InfectionChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShanghaiChina.,Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and InfectionShanghaiChina
| | - Min Wu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical CenterFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yaming Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jieliang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina.,Research Unit of Cure of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus InfectionChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShanghaiChina.,Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and InfectionShanghaiChina
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS)School of Basic Medical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina.,Research Unit of Cure of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus InfectionChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShanghaiChina.,Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and InfectionShanghaiChina
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16
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Xu M, Li C, Ding J, Wu M, Tang Y, Yuan Z, Zhang X. The role of hepatitis B virus surface proteins in regulating the maturation and secretion of complete and incomplete virions. J Gen Virol 2022; 103. [PMID: 35438623 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of various forms of hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface proteins regulates the release of mature virion, but whether they affect the release of other incomplete viral particles, such as naked capsid, is not clear. Here, by stable overexpression of large or middle/small hepatitis B surface proteins (LHBs, M/SHBs) in HepAD38 cells, we evaluated their effects on the release of complete and incomplete viral particles. Overproduction of LHBs inhibited the release of all surface proteins, which increased the ratio of naked capsids/virions. This effect was accompanied by the elevated extracellular HBV RNA. On the other hand, overexpression of M/SHBs greatly improved the secretion of enveloped viral and subviral particles. In situ visualization of viral DNA and LHBs revealed intracellular retention of mature virions when LHBs were overexpressed. These results indicate that the molecular decision on secretion of enveloped or unenveloped viral particles is modulated by the intracellular ratio of large, middle and small surface antigens. This mechanism may be relevant in the progression and resolution of HBV-induced chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Xu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Chang Li
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jiahui Ding
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Min Wu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yijie Tang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiaonan Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, ACT, Australia
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17
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Bustamante-Jaramillo LF, Fingal J, Blondot ML, Rydell GE, Kann M. Imaging of Hepatitis B Virus Nucleic Acids: Current Advances and Challenges. Viruses 2022; 14:v14030557. [PMID: 35336964 PMCID: PMC8950347 DOI: 10.3390/v14030557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus infections are the main reason for hepatocellular carcinoma development. Current treatment reduces the viral load but rarely leads to virus elimination. Despite its medical importance, little is known about infection dynamics on the cellular level not at least due to technical obstacles. Regardless of infections leading to extreme viral loads, which may reach 1010 virions per mL serum, hepatitis B viruses are of low abundance and productivity in individual cells. Imaging of the infections in cells is thus a particular challenge especially for cccDNA that exists only in a few copies. The review describes the significance of microscopical approaches on genome and transcript detection for understanding hepatitis B virus infections, implications for understanding treatment outcomes, and recent microscopical approaches, which have not been applied in HBV research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa F. Bustamante-Jaramillo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (L.F.B.-J.); (J.F.); (G.E.R.)
| | - Joshua Fingal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (L.F.B.-J.); (J.F.); (G.E.R.)
| | - Marie-Lise Blondot
- Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité (MFP), CNRS UMR 5234, University of Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France;
| | - Gustaf E. Rydell
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (L.F.B.-J.); (J.F.); (G.E.R.)
| | - Michael Kann
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (L.F.B.-J.); (J.F.); (G.E.R.)
- Region Västra Götaland, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Correspondence:
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18
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Kamiya N, Sugimoto T, Abe-Chayama H, Akiyama R, Tsuboi Y, Mogami A, Imamura M, Hayes CN, Chayama K. Untying relaxed circular DNA of hepatitis B virus by polymerase reaction provides a new option for accurate quantification and visualization of covalently closed circular DNA. J Gen Virol 2022; 103. [PMID: 35130138 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a small hepatotropic DNA virus that replicates via an RNA intermediate. After entry, the virus capsid carries relaxed circular DNA (rcDNA) into the nucleus where the viral genome is converted into covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), which serves as the template for all viral transcripts. To monitor cccDNA levels, preprocessing methods to eliminate rcDNA have emerged for quantitative PCR, although Southern blotting is still the only method to discriminate cccDNA from other DNA intermediates. In this study, we have established a robust method for untying mature rcDNA into double stranded linear DNA using specific polymerases. Untying rcDNA provides not only an alternative method for cccDNA quantification but also a sensitive method for visualizing cccDNA. We combined this method with plasmid-safe DNase and T5 exonuclease preprocessing and revealed that accurate quantification requires cccDNA digestion by a restriction enzyme because heat stability of cccDNA increases after T5 exonuclease treatment. In digital PCR using duplex TaqMan probes, fewer than 1000 copies of cccDNA were successfully visualized as double positive spots that were distinct from single positives derived from untied rcDNA. This method was further applied to the infection model of primary hepatocytes treated with nucleoside analogues and a core protein allosteric modulator to monitor cccDNA levels. Relative quantification of cccDNA by human genome copy demonstrated the possibility of precise evaluation of cccDNA level per nucleus. These results clearly indicate that the sequential reaction from untying rcDNA is useful to investigate cccDNA fates in a small fraction of nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naohiro Kamiya
- Research Unit/Immunology & Inflammation, Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takahiko Sugimoto
- Research Unit/Immunology & Inflammation, Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hiromi Abe-Chayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Rie Akiyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yasunori Tsuboi
- Research Unit/Immunology & Inflammation, Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Akira Mogami
- Research Unit/Immunology & Inflammation, Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Michio Imamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - C Nelson Hayes
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Institute of Physical and Chemical Research (RIKEN) Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
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19
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Humoral immunity in hepatitis B virus infection: Rehabilitating the B in HBV. JHEP REPORTS : INNOVATION IN HEPATOLOGY 2022; 4:100398. [PMID: 35059620 PMCID: PMC8760517 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Insights into the immunopathogenesis of chronic HBV infections are fundamental in the quest for novel treatment approaches aimed at a functional cure. While much is known about the ineffective HBV-specific T-cell responses that characterise persistent HBV replication, B cells have been left largely understudied. However, an important role for humoral immunity during the natural history of HBV infections, as well as after functional cure, has been inadvertently revealed by the occurrence of HBV flares following B cell-depleting treatments. Herein, we review our current understanding of the role of the humoral immune response in chronic HBV, both at the level of HBV-specific antibody production and at the phenotypic and broader functional level of B cells. The recent development of fluorescently labelled HBV proteins has given us unprecedented insights into the phenotype and function of HBsAg- and HBcAg-specific B cells. This should fuel novel research into the mechanisms behind dysfunctional HBsAg-specific and fluctuating, possibly pathogenic, HBcAg-specific B-cell responses in chronic HBV. Finally, novel immunomodulatory treatments that partly target B cells are currently in clinical development, but a detailed assessment of their impact on HBV-specific B-cell responses is lacking. We plead for a rehabilitation of B-cell studies related to both the natural history of HBV and treatment development programmes.
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20
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Allweiss L, Giersch K, Pirosu A, Volz T, Muench RC, Beran RK, Urban S, Javanbakht H, Fletcher SP, Lütgehetmann M, Dandri M. Therapeutic shutdown of HBV transcripts promotes reappearance of the SMC5/6 complex and silencing of the viral genome in vivo. Gut 2022; 71:372-381. [PMID: 33509930 PMCID: PMC8762019 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-322571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Therapeutic strategies silencing and reducing the hepatitis B virus (HBV) reservoir, the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), have the potential to cure chronic HBV infection. We aimed to investigate the impact of small interferring RNA (siRNA) targeting all HBV transcripts or pegylated interferon-α (peg-IFNα) on the viral regulatory HBx protein and the structural maintenance of chromosome 5/6 complex (SMC5/6), a host factor suppressing cccDNA transcription. In particular, we assessed whether interventions lowering HBV transcripts can achieve and maintain silencing of cccDNA transcription in vivo. DESIGN HBV-infected human liver chimeric mice were treated with siRNA or peg-IFNα. Virological and host changes were analysed at the end of treatment and during the rebound phase by qualitative PCR, ELISA, immunoblotting and chromatin immunoprecipitation. RNA in situ hybridisation was combined with immunofluorescence to detect SMC6 and HBV RNAs at single cell level. The entry inhibitor myrcludex-B was used during the rebound phase to avoid new infection events. RESULTS Both siRNA and peg-IFNα strongly reduced all HBV markers, including HBx levels, thus enabling the reappearance of SMC5/6 in hepatocytes that achieved HBV-RNA negativisation and SMC5/6 association with the cccDNA. Only IFN reduced cccDNA loads and enhanced IFN-stimulated genes. However, the antiviral effects did not persist off treatment and SMC5/6 was again degraded. Remarkably, the blockade of viral entry that started at the end of treatment hindered renewed degradation of SMC5/6. CONCLUSION These results reveal that therapeutics abrogating all HBV transcripts including HBx promote epigenetic suppression of the HBV minichromosome, whereas strategies protecting the human hepatocytes from reinfection are needed to maintain cccDNA silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Allweiss
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katja Giersch
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andrea Pirosu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tassilo Volz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems and Heidelberg sites, Germany
| | | | | | - Stephan Urban
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems and Heidelberg sites, Germany,Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems and Heidelberg sites, Germany,Department of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maura Dandri
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany .,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems and Heidelberg sites, Germany
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21
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Zheng Y, Xu M, Zeng D, Tong H, Shi Y, Feng Y, Zhang X. In situ analysis of hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigen and DNA in HBV-induced hepatocellular carcinoma. Diagn Pathol 2022; 17:11. [PMID: 35034659 PMCID: PMC8761330 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-022-01194-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is the major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in East Asia. Here we aimed to further investigate the abundance of viral antigen and DNA within HBV-related HCC and surrounding tissues at histological level. Method In addition to routine histopathology, in situ hybridization (ISH) of HBV DNA and immunohistochemistry (IHC) of HBsAg were performed in tissues from 131 HBsAg-positive HCC patients undergoing liver resection. Serum α-fetoprotein together with basic biochemical and immunological parameter was also measured. Results Overall, the ISH of HBV DNA and IHC of HBsAg showed 31.3% and 92.9% positive rate respectively (p < 0.0001). The level of correlation between these two markers was much more significant in tumor (p < 0.0001) than in tumor-surrounding tissue (p = 0.01). HBsAg exhibited a much higher positive rate in tumor-adjacent tissue than in tumor tissue (86.6% versus 29.9%, p < 0.0001) with significantly different staining pattern. By contrast, the positive rate of HBV DNA ISH was comparable in tumor and surrounding tissue (17.6% versus 22.9%, p = 0.36). Yet the HBV DNA signal in tumor tissue showed predominant nuclear localization (87.0%) whereas staining pattern in adjacent tissue was mixed (43.3% nuclear localization, p = 0.0015). Finally, no significant association between intra-tumor HBV DNA/HBsAg positivity and major histological markers (microvascular invasion, tumor differentiation, etc.) or recurrence after surgery was observed. Conclusions These data confirmed the largely integrated state of HBV DNA, weaker expression and altered localization of surface antigen in tumor compared with surrounding tissue. The strikingly different prevalence and localization of HBsAg and HBV DNA reflected the complex and heterogeneous mechanisms leading to HBV-induced tumorigenesis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13000-022-01194-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zheng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingzhu Xu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong Zeng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haitao Tong
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhan Shi
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanling Feng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaonan Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
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22
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Zhang X, Wang Y, Yang G. Research progress in hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA. Cancer Biol Med 2021; 19:j.issn.2095-3941.2021.0454. [PMID: 34931766 PMCID: PMC9088183 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2021.0454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections are a global public health issue. HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), the template for the transcription of viral RNAs, is a key factor in the HBV replication cycle. Notably, many host factors involved in HBV cccDNA epigenetic modulation promote the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The HBV cccDNA minichromosome is a clinical obstacle that cannot be efficiently eliminated. In this review, we provide an update on the advances in research on HBV cccDNA and further discuss factors affecting the modulation of HBV cccDNA. Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) contributes to HBV cccDNA transcription and the development of hepatocarcinogenesis through modulating host epigenetic regulatory factors, thus linking the cccDNA to hepatocarcinogenesis. The measurable serological biomarkers of continued transcription of cccDNA, the effects of anti-HBV drugs on cccDNA, and potential therapeutic strategies targeting cccDNA are discussed in detail. Thus, this review describes new insights into HBV cccDNA mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for cleaning cccDNA, which will benefit patients with liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- Department of Cancer Research, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
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23
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Herschke F, Li C, Zhu R, Han Q, Wu Q, Lu Q, Barale-Thomas E, De Jonghe S, Lin TI, De Creus A. JNJ-64794964 (AL-034/TQ-A3334), a TLR7 agonist, induces sustained anti-HBV activity in AAV/HBV mice via non-cytolytic mechanisms. Antiviral Res 2021; 196:105196. [PMID: 34718044 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2021.105196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
JNJ-64794964 (JNJ-4964/AL-034/TQ-A3334), an oral toll-like receptor 7 agonist, is being investigated for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB), a condition with a high unmet medical need. The anti-hepatitis B (HBV) activity of JNJ-4964 was assessed preclinically in an adeno-associated virus vector expressing HBV (AAV/HBV) mouse model. Mice were treated orally with 2, 6 or 20 mg/kg of JNJ-4964 once-per-week for 12 weeks and then followed up for 4 weeks. At 6 mg/kg, a partial decrease in plasma HBV-DNA and plasma hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was observed, and anti-HBs antibodies and HBsAg-specific T cells were observed in 1/8 animals. At 20 mg/kg, plasma HBV-DNA and HBsAg levels were undetectable for all animals 3 weeks after start of treatment, with no rebound observed 4 weeks after JNJ-4964 treatment was stopped. High anti-HBs antibody levels were observed until 4 weeks after JNJ-4964 treatment was stopped. In parallel, HBsAg-specific immunoglobulin G-producing B cells and interferon-γ-producing CD4+ T cells were detected in the spleen. In 2/4 animals, liver HBV-DNA and HBV-RNA levels and liver hepatitis B core antigen expression dropped 4 weeks after JNJ-4964 treatment-stop. In these animals, HBsAg-specific CD8+ T cells were detectable. Throughout the study, normal levels of alanine aminotransferase were observed, with no hepatocyte cell death (end of treatment and 4 weeks later) and minimal infiltrations of B and T cells into the liver, suggesting induction of cytokine-mediated, non-cytolytic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Herschke
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium.
| | - Chris Li
- Janssen China R&D, Discovery, Shanghai, China
| | - Ren Zhu
- Janssen China R&D, Discovery, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinglin Han
- Janssen China R&D, Discovery, Shanghai, China
| | - Qun Wu
- Janssen China R&D, Discovery, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Lu
- Janssen China R&D, Discovery, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Sandra De Jonghe
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Tse-I Lin
- Janssen Biopharma, 260 E Grand Ave., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, United States
| | - An De Creus
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
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24
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Brown D, Altermatt M, Dobreva T, Chen S, Wang A, Thomson M, Gradinaru V. Deep Parallel Characterization of AAV Tropism and AAV-Mediated Transcriptional Changes via Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. Front Immunol 2021; 12:730825. [PMID: 34759919 PMCID: PMC8574206 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.730825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Engineered variants of recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) are being developed rapidly to meet the need for gene-therapy delivery vehicles with particular cell-type and tissue tropisms. While high-throughput AAV engineering and selection methods have generated numerous variants, subsequent tropism and response characterization have remained low throughput and lack resolution across the many relevant cell and tissue types. To fully leverage the output of these large screening paradigms across multiple targets, we have developed an experimental and computational single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) pipeline for in vivo characterization of barcoded rAAV pools at high resolution. Using this platform, we have both corroborated previously reported viral tropisms and discovered unidentified AAV capsid targeting biases. As expected, we observed that the tropism profile of AAV.CAP-B10 in mice was shifted toward neurons and away from astrocytes when compared with AAV-PHP.eB. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that this neuronal bias is due mainly to increased targeting efficiency for glutamatergic neurons, which we confirmed by RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization. We further uncovered cell subtype tropisms of AAV variants in vascular and glial cells, such as low transduction of pericytes and Myoc+ astrocytes. Additionally, we have observed cell-type-specific transitory responses to systemic AAV-PHP.eB administration, such as upregulation of genes involved in p53 signaling in endothelial cells three days post-injection, which return to control levels by day twenty-five. The presented experimental and computational approaches for parallel characterization of AAV tropism will facilitate the advancement of safe and precise gene delivery vehicles, and showcase the power of understanding responses to gene therapies at the single-cell level.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Brown
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Michael Altermatt
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Tatyana Dobreva
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Sisi Chen
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Alexander Wang
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Matt Thomson
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Viviana Gradinaru
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
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25
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Li C, Zhang W, Shi B, Chen G, Zheng Y, An Y, Sun M, Feng Y, Shang Q, Zhang X. Evaluation of the in situ assay for HBV DNA: An observational real-world study in chronic hepatitis B. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e27220. [PMID: 34664859 PMCID: PMC8448054 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000027220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The visualization of intrahepatic hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA by in situ hybridization (ISH) has uncovered some interesting aspects of HBV life cycle at the single-cell level. In the current study, we intend to evaluate the reliability and robustness of this assay in the real-world clinical scenario and its relationship with currently available clinical biomarkers in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients.In this cross-sectional study, 94 CHB patients and 10 patients with non-HBV related liver diseases were enrolled. Liver biopsies and routine histopathology analysis were performed. Intrahepatic HBV DNA and viral antigens (HBsAg and HBcAg) were detected by ISH and immunohistochemistry (IHC), respectively. The basic biochemical and virological parameters such as alanine transaminase, serum HBV DNA, and serum HBsAg were measured.The HBV DNA-ISH assay showed 55.8% (53/94 cases) positive rate in CHB patients, no false positive was found in non-HBV related hepatitis. The IHC of HBsAg and HBcAg showed a positive rate of 94.7% (89/94 cases) and 19.5% (17/87 cases), respectively. Quantification of HBV DNA-ISH signal showed a significant correlation with serum HBV DNA (rs = 0.6223, P < .0001). In addition, the staining pattern of HBV DNA in situ in the context of collagen deposition informed the histopathological progression of chronic liver disease.The application of this ISH assay in evaluating intrahepatic viral replication in real-world CHB patients showed favorable performance. It can be a complementation to conventional liver histopathology examination and IHC detection of viral antigens. This methodology provides an intuitive assessment of virological and pathological state of CHB patients, and further supports clinical diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Li
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Chinese PLA Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Liver Diseases, The 960th Hospital of Chinese PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Bisheng Shi
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Chinese PLA Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Liver Diseases, The 960th Hospital of Chinese PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Ye Zheng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong An
- Chinese PLA Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Liver Diseases, The 960th Hospital of Chinese PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Mimi Sun
- Chinese PLA Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Liver Diseases, The 960th Hospital of Chinese PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Yanling Feng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinghua Shang
- Chinese PLA Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Liver Diseases, The 960th Hospital of Chinese PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaonan Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, ACT, Australia
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26
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Yue L, Li C, Xu M, Wu M, Ding J, Liu J, Zhang X, Yuan Z. Probing the spatiotemporal patterns of HBV multiplication reveals novel features of its subcellular processes. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009838. [PMID: 34370796 PMCID: PMC8376071 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Through evolution, Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) developed highly intricate mechanisms exploiting host resources for its multiplication within a constrained genetic coding capacity. Yet a clear picture of viral hitchhiking of cellular processes with spatial resolution is still largely unsolved. Here, by leveraging bDNA-based fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) combined with immunofluorescence, we developed a microscopic approach for multiplex detection of viral nucleic acids and proteins, which enabled us to probe some of the key aspects of HBV life cycle. We confirmed the slow kinetics and revealed the high variability of viral replication at single-cell level. We directly visualized HBV minichromosome in contact with acetylated histone 3 and RNA polymerase II and observed HBV-induced degradation of Smc5/6 complex only in primary hepatocytes. We quantified the frequency of HBV pregenomic RNAs occupied by translating ribosome or capsids. Statistics at molecular level suggested a rapid translation phase followed by a slow encapsidation and maturation phase. Finally, the roles of microtubules (MTs) on nucleocapsid assembly and virion morphogenesis were analyzed. Disruption of MTs resulted in the perinuclear retention of nucleocapsid. Meanwhile, large multivesicular body (MVB) formation was significantly disturbed as evidenced by the increase in number and decrease in volume of CD63+ vesicles, thus inhibiting mature virion secretion. In conclusion, these data provided spatially resolved molecular snapshots in the context of specific subcellular activities. The heterogeneity observed at single-cell level afforded valuable molecular insights which are otherwise unavailable from bulk measurements. HBV is a hepatotropic, enveloped virus with a partially double-stranded relaxed circular DNA genome. Studies on the molecular biology of HBV mainly rely on biochemical extraction and bulk quantification methods. Detailed spatiotemporal information on virus components in subcellular context is still lacking. Here, we re-evaluated the reproduction schemes of HBV by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We visualized cccDNA minichromosome formation in an epigenetic context, identified pgRNA associated with actively translating ribosomes and capsids. Moreover, the active participation of microtubules in nucleocapsid transport and MVB-mediated virion secretion was identified. These observations have broad implications for understanding the HBV replication cycle and may facilitate the identification of novel antiviral targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yue
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Li
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingzhu Xu
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Wu
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiahui Ding
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiangxia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaonan Zhang
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, ACT, Australia
- * E-mail: (XZ); (ZY)
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (XZ); (ZY)
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27
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Non-terminally exhausted tumor-resident memory HBV-specific T cell responses correlate with relapse-free survival in hepatocellular carcinoma. Immunity 2021; 54:1825-1840.e7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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28
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Le C, Liu Y, López-Orozco J, Joyce MA, Le XC, Tyrrell DL. CRISPR Technique Incorporated with Single-Cell RNA Sequencing for Studying Hepatitis B Infection. Anal Chem 2021; 93:10756-10761. [PMID: 34328316 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c02227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) provides rich transcriptomic information for studying molecular events and cell heterogeneity at the single-cell level. However, it is challenging to obtain sequence information from rare or low-abundance genes in the presence of other highly abundant genes. We report here a CRISPR-Cas9 technique for the depletion of high-abundance transcripts, resulting in preferential enrichment of rare transcripts. We demonstrate an application of this CRISPR-mediated enrichment technique to scRNA-seq of liver cells infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). Direct sequencing without the CRISPR-mediated enrichment detected HBV RNA in only 0.6% of the cells. The CRISPR-mediated depletion of the three most abundant transcripts resulted in selective enrichment of the HBV transcript and successful sequencing of HBV RNA in more than 74% of the cells. The improvement enabled a study of HBV infection and interferon treatment of a liver cell model. Gene clusters between the control and HBV-infected Huh7.5-NTCP cells were similar, suggesting that HBV infection did not significantly alter gene expression of the host cells. The treatment with interferon alpha dramatically changed the gene expression of Huh7.5-NTCP cells. These results from the single cell RNA-seq analysis of 7370 cells are consistent with those of bulk experiments, suggesting that HBV is a "stealth virus".
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie Le
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, 6010 Katz Centre for Health Research, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E1
| | - Yanming Liu
- Division of Analytical and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2G3
| | - Joaquín López-Orozco
- High Content Analysis Core Facility, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2R3
| | - Michael A Joyce
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, 6010 Katz Centre for Health Research, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E1
| | - X Chris Le
- Division of Analytical and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2G3
| | - D Lorne Tyrrell
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, 6010 Katz Centre for Health Research, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E1
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29
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Zhang X, Wang X, Wu M, Ghildyal R, Yuan Z. Animal Models for the Study of Hepatitis B Virus Pathobiology and Immunity: Past, Present, and Future. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:715450. [PMID: 34335553 PMCID: PMC8322840 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.715450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health problem that plagues approximately 240 million people. Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) often leads to liver inflammation and aberrant repair which results in diseases ranging from liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, to hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite its narrow species tropism, researchers have established various in vivo models for HBV or its related viruses which have provided a wealth of knowledge on viral lifecycle, pathogenesis, and immunity. Here we briefly revisit over five decades of endeavor in animal model development for HBV and summarize their advantages and limitations. We also suggest directions for further improvements that are crucial for elucidation of the viral immune-evasion strategies and for development of novel therapeutics for a functional cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Zhang
- Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomeng Wang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Wu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Reena Ghildyal
- Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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30
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Wing PAC, Liu PJ, Harris JM, Magri A, Michler T, Zhuang X, Borrmann H, Minisini R, Frampton NR, Wettengel JM, Mailly L, D'Arienzo V, Riedl T, Nobre L, Weekes MP, Pirisi M, Heikenwalder M, Baumert TF, Hammond EM, Mole DR, Protzer U, Balfe P, McKeating JA. Hypoxia inducible factors regulate hepatitis B virus replication by activating the basal core promoter. J Hepatol 2021; 75:64-73. [PMID: 33516779 PMCID: PMC8214165 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) are a hallmark of inflammation and are key regulators of hepatic immunity and metabolism, yet their role in HBV replication is poorly defined. HBV replicates in hepatocytes within the liver, a naturally hypoxic organ, however most studies of viral replication are performed under conditions of atmospheric oxygen, where HIFs are inactive. We therefore investigated the role of HIFs in regulating HBV replication. METHODS Using cell culture, animal models, human tissue and pharmacological agents inhibiting the HIF-prolyl hydroxylases, we investigated the impact of hypoxia on the HBV life cycle. RESULTS Culturing liver cell-based model systems under low oxygen uncovered a new role for HIFs in binding HBV DNA and activating the basal core promoter, leading to increased pre-genomic RNA and de novo HBV particle secretion. The presence of hypoxia responsive elements among all primate members of the hepadnaviridae highlights an evolutionary conserved role for HIFs in regulating this virus family. CONCLUSIONS Identifying a role for this conserved oxygen sensor in regulating HBV transcription suggests that this virus has evolved to exploit the HIF signaling pathway to persist in the low oxygen environment of the liver. Our studies show the importance of considering oxygen availability when studying HBV-host interactions and provide innovative routes to better understand and target chronic HBV infection. LAY SUMMARY Viral replication in host cells is defined by the cellular microenvironment and one key factor is local oxygen tension. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) replicates in the liver, a naturally hypoxic organ. Hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) are the major sensors of low oxygen; herein, we identify a new role for these factors in regulating HBV replication, revealing new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A C Wing
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Oxford Institute (COI), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - James M Harris
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrea Magri
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas Michler
- Institute of Virology, Technische Universität München/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich partner site, Munich, Germany
| | - Xiaodong Zhuang
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Helene Borrmann
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Nicholas R Frampton
- Institute of Inflammation and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jochen M Wettengel
- Institute of Virology, Technische Universität München/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich partner site, Munich, Germany
| | - Laurent Mailly
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France
| | | | - Tobias Riedl
- Division of Chronic Inflammation and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Luis Nobre
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michael P Weekes
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Mathias Heikenwalder
- Division of Chronic Inflammation and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas F Baumert
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ester M Hammond
- Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - David R Mole
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, Technische Universität München/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich partner site, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Balfe
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jane A McKeating
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Oxford Institute (COI), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Transaminase Elevations during Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B Infection: Safety Considerations and Role in Achieving Functional Cure. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050745. [PMID: 33922828 PMCID: PMC8146791 DOI: 10.3390/v13050745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
While current therapies for chronic HBV infection work well to control viremia and stop the progression of liver disease, the preferred outcome of therapy is the restoration of immune control of HBV infection, allowing therapy to be removed while maintaining effective suppression of infection and reversal of liver damage. This “functional cure” of chronic HBV infection is characterized by the absence of detectable viremia (HBV DNA) and antigenemia (HBsAg) and normal liver function and is the goal of new therapies in development. Functional cure requires removal of the ability of infected cells in the liver to produce the hepatitis B surface antigen. The increased observation of transaminase elevations with new therapies makes understanding the safety and therapeutic impact of these flares an increasingly important issue. This review examines the factors driving the appearance of transaminase elevations during therapy of chronic HBV infection and the interplay of these factors in assessing the safety and beneficial nature of these flares.
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Pastor F, Shkreta L, Chabot B, Durantel D, Salvetti A. Interplay Between CMGC Kinases Targeting SR Proteins and Viral Replication: Splicing and Beyond. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:658721. [PMID: 33854493 PMCID: PMC8040976 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.658721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphorylation constitutes a major post-translational modification that critically regulates the half-life, intra-cellular distribution, and activity of proteins. Among the large number of kinases that compose the human kinome tree, those targeting RNA-binding proteins, in particular serine/arginine-rich (SR) proteins, play a major role in the regulation of gene expression by controlling constitutive and alternative splicing. In humans, these kinases belong to the CMGC [Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), Glycogen synthase kinases (GSKs), and Cdc2-like kinases (CLKs)] group and several studies indicate that they also control viral replication via direct or indirect mechanisms. The aim of this review is to describe known and emerging activities of CMGC kinases that share the common property to phosphorylate SR proteins, as well as their interplay with different families of viruses, in order to advance toward a comprehensive knowledge of their pro- or anti-viral phenotype and better assess possible translational opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florentin Pastor
- International Center for Infectiology Research (CIRI), INSERM U1111, CNRS UMR5308, Université de Lyon (UCBL1), Lyon, France
| | - Lulzim Shkreta
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Benoit Chabot
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - David Durantel
- International Center for Infectiology Research (CIRI), INSERM U1111, CNRS UMR5308, Université de Lyon (UCBL1), Lyon, France
| | - Anna Salvetti
- International Center for Infectiology Research (CIRI), INSERM U1111, CNRS UMR5308, Université de Lyon (UCBL1), Lyon, France
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Rao S, Hossain T, Mahmoudi T. 3D human liver organoids: An in vitro platform to investigate HBV infection, replication and liver tumorigenesis. Cancer Lett 2021; 506:35-44. [PMID: 33675983 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is a leading cause of chronic liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with an estimated 400 million people infected worldwide. The precise molecular mechanisms underlying HBV replication and tumorigenesis have remained largely uncharacterized due to the lack of a primary cell model to study HBV, a virus that exhibits stringent host species and cell-type specificity. Organoid technology has recently emerged as a powerful tool to investigate human diseases in a primary 3D cell-culture system that maintains the organisation and functionality of the tissue of origin. In this review, we describe the utilisation of human liver organoid platforms to study HBV. We first present the different categories of liver organoids and their demonstrated ability to support the complete HBV replication cycle. We then discuss the potential applications of liver organoids in investigating HBV infection and replication, related tumorigenesis and novel HBV-directed therapies. Liver organoids can be genetically modified, patient-derived, expanded and biobanked, thereby serving as a clinically-relevant, human, primary cell-derived platform to investigate HBV. Finally, we provide insights into the future applications of this powerful technology in the context of HBV-infection and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shringar Rao
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, 9 Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tanvir Hossain
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, 9 Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tokameh Mahmoudi
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, 9 Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Virzì A, Gonzalez-Motos V, Tripon S, Baumert TF, Lupberger J. Profibrotic Signaling and HCC Risk during Chronic Viral Hepatitis: Biomarker Development. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10050977. [PMID: 33801181 PMCID: PMC7957739 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10050977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite breakthroughs in antiviral therapies, chronic viral hepatitis B and C are still the major causes of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Importantly, even in patients with controlled infection or viral cure, the cancer risk cannot be fully eliminated, highlighting a persisting oncogenic pressure imposed by epigenetic imprinting and advanced liver disease. Reliable and minimally invasive biomarkers for early fibrosis and for residual HCC risk in HCV-cured patients are urgently needed. Chronic infection with HBV and/or HCV dysregulates oncogenic and profibrogenic signaling within the host, also displayed in the secretion of soluble factors to the blood. The study of virus-dysregulated signaling pathways may, therefore, contribute to the identification of reliable minimally invasive biomarkers for the detection of patients at early-stage liver disease potentially complementing existing noninvasive methods in clinics. With a focus on virus-induced signaling events, this review provides an overview of candidate blood biomarkers for liver disease and HCC risk associated with chronic viral hepatitis and epigenetic viral footprints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Virzì
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Victor Gonzalez-Motos
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Simona Tripon
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-Digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, 67091 Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-Digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, 67091 Strasbourg, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), 75231 Paris, France
| | - Joachim Lupberger
- Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (A.V.); (V.G.-M.); (S.T.); (T.F.B.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques (IVH), 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Correspondence:
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35
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Balagopal A, Hwang HS, Grudda T, Quinn J, Sterling RK, Sulkowski MS, Thio CL. Single Hepatocyte Hepatitis B Virus Transcriptional Landscape in HIV Coinfection. J Infect Dis 2021; 221:1462-1469. [PMID: 31740931 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a leading cause of liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. Approximately 10% of people with HIV also have HBV and are at higher risk of liver disease progression than in HBV monoinfection. Antivirals, common to HIV and HBV, suppress HBV DNA levels but do not eradicate virus because the transcriptional template, covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), is long lived in infected hepatocytes. METHODS Using single-cell laser capture microdissection, we isolated >1100 hepatocytes from 5 HIV/HBV coinfected persons with increasing exposure to HBV antivirals (HB1-HB5; no exposure to >7 years exposure), quantifying cccDNA and pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) in each cell using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The proportion of infected hepatocytes decreased with antiviral exposure from 96.4% (HB1) to 29.8% (HB5). Upper cccDNA range and median pgRNA decreased from HB1 to HB5 (P < .05 for both). The amount of pgRNA transcribed per cccDNA also decreased from HB1 to HB5 (P < .05). Cells with inactive pgRNA transcription were enriched from 0% (HB1) to 14.3% (HB5) of infected hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS cccDNA transcription is reduced in HIV/HBV coinfected people with longer antiviral duration. Understanding HBV transcriptional regulation may be critical to develop a functional cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin Balagopal
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Hyon S Hwang
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tanner Grudda
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jeffrey Quinn
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Mark S Sulkowski
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chloe L Thio
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Optical technologies for the detection of viruses like COVID-19: Progress and prospects. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 178:113004. [PMID: 33497877 PMCID: PMC7832448 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of life-threatening pandemic like COVID-19 necessitated the development of novel, rapid and cost-effective techniques that facilitate detection of viruses like SARS-CoV-2. The presently popular approach of a collection of samples using the nasopharyngeal swab method and subsequent detection of RNA using the real-time polymerase chain reaction suffers from false-positive results and a longer diagnostic time scale. Alternatively, various optical techniques namely optical sensing, spectroscopy, and imaging shows a great promise in virus detection. Herein, a comprehensive review of the various photonics technologies employed for virus detection, particularly the SARS-CoV family, is discussed. The state-of-art research activities in utilizing the photonics tools such as near-infrared spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, fluorescence-based techniques, super-resolution microscopy, surface plasmon resonance-based detection, for virus detection accounted extensively with an emphasis on coronavirus detection. Further, an account of emerging photonics technologies of SARS-CoV-2 detection and future possibilities is also explained. The progress in the field of optical techniques for virus detection unambiguously show a great promise in the development of rapid photonics-based devices for COVID-19 detection.
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37
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Hepatitis B virus Core protein nuclear interactome identifies SRSF10 as a host RNA-binding protein restricting HBV RNA production. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008593. [PMID: 33180834 PMCID: PMC7707522 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the existence of a preventive vaccine, chronic infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects more than 250 million people and represents a major global cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. Current clinical treatments, in most of cases, do not eliminate viral genome that persists as a DNA episome in the nucleus of hepatocytes and constitutes a stable template for the continuous expression of viral genes. Several studies suggest that, among viral factors, the HBV core protein (HBc), well-known for its structural role in the cytoplasm, could have critical regulatory functions in the nucleus of infected hepatocytes. To elucidate these functions, we performed a proteomic analysis of HBc-interacting host-factors in the nucleus of differentiated HepaRG, a surrogate model of human hepatocytes. The HBc interactome was found to consist primarily of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which are involved in various aspects of mRNA metabolism. Among them, we focused our studies on SRSF10, a RBP that was previously shown to regulate alternative splicing (AS) in a phosphorylation-dependent manner and to control stress and DNA damage responses, as well as viral replication. Functional studies combining SRSF10 knockdown and a pharmacological inhibitor of SRSF10 phosphorylation (1C8) showed that SRSF10 behaves as a restriction factor that regulates HBV RNAs levels and that its dephosphorylated form is likely responsible for the anti-viral effect. Surprisingly, neither SRSF10 knock-down nor 1C8 treatment modified the splicing of HBV RNAs but rather modulated the level of nascent HBV RNA. Altogether, our work suggests that in the nucleus of infected cells HBc interacts with multiple RBPs that regulate viral RNA metabolism. Our identification of SRSF10 as a new anti-HBV restriction factor offers new perspectives for the development of new host-targeted antiviral strategies. Chronic infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects more than 250 million of people world-wide and is a major global cause of liver cancer. Current treatments lead to a significant reduction of viremia in patients. However, viral clearance is rarely obtained and the persistence of the HBV genome in the hepatocyte’s nucleus generates a stable source of viral RNAs and subsequently proteins which play important roles in immune escape mechanisms and liver disease progression. Therapies aiming at efficiently and durably eliminating viral gene expression are still required. In this study, we identified the nuclear partners of the HBV Core protein (HBc) to understand how this structural protein, responsible for capsid assembly in the cytoplasm, could also regulate viral gene expression. The HBc interactome was found to consist primarily of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). One of these RBPs, SRSF10, was demonstrated to restrict HBV RNA levels and a drug, able to alter its phosphorylation, behaved as an antiviral compound capable of reducing viral gene expression. Altogether, this study sheds new light on novel regulatory functions of HBc and provides information relevant for the development of antiviral strategies aiming at preventing viral gene expression.
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Zhao J, Yue Y, Patel A, Wasala L, Karp JF, Zhang K, Duan D, Lai Y. High-Resolution Histological Landscape of AAV DNA Distribution in Cellular Compartments and Tissues following Local and Systemic Injection. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2020; 18:856-868. [PMID: 32953935 PMCID: PMC7479330 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is one of the most important gene delivery vehicles for in vivo gene therapy. Intramuscular (i.m.) and intravascular (i.v.) injection are commonly used for AAV gene transfer. Unfortunately, the fate of AAV vectors following administration remains unclear at the histological level. Taking advantage of RNAscope, a recently developed in situ hybridization technique that can reveal high-resolution viral DNA localization information, in this study, we evaluated body-wide distribution of an AAV9 vector in the context of the cell and tissue microenvironments. We observed distinctive kinetics of cell and nuclear entry of the AAV DNA in striated muscle and liver following i.m. and i.v. injection. We also found characteristic distribution patterns of the AAV DNA in various histological structures in internal organs, including gonads and lymph nodes, following i.v. injection. Finally, we showed significantly body-wide spreading of the AAV DNA following i.m. injection. These results add a new dimension to our understanding of AAV transduction biology and provide a basis for assessing the full impact of AAV gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junling Zhao
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Yongping Yue
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Aman Patel
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Lakmini Wasala
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Jacob F. Karp
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Keqing Zhang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Dongsheng Duan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Yi Lai
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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Vanwolleghem T, Groothuismink ZMA, Kreefft K, Hung M, Novikov N, Boonstra A. Hepatitis B core-specific memory B cell responses associate with clinical parameters in patients with chronic HBV. J Hepatol 2020; 73:52-61. [PMID: 32061650 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Little is known about the frequency, phenotype and function of HBV-specific B cells during chronic infection. Here we study HBcAg and HBsAg-specific B cells in different clinical phases of a chronic HBV infection. METHODS We included 118 treatment naïve and 34 nucleos(t)ide analogue-treated patients with chronic HBV and 23 healthy HBsAg-vaccinated controls. Global and HBV-specific B lymphocytes were examined by FACS using fluorescently labeled HBsAg and HBcAg as baits. Functional HBV-specific B cell responses were quantified in B cell ELISPOT assays. Anti-HBs and anti-HBc antibodies were measured in serum and in ELISPOT supernatant by ELISA. RESULTS Higher HBcAg-directed B cell responses were found in HBV clinical phases with elevated vs. low serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, irrespective of the HBeAg-status. In contrast, HBsAg-directed responses were lower and did not significantly fluctuate. In individual patients a mean 17.8-fold more circulating B cells target HBcAg than HBsAg baits. These HBcAg-specific B cells present a classical memory B cell profile and have slightly higher CD69 expression levels compared to global memory B cells. Viral suppression and ALT normalization upon treatment led to a numeric and functional reduction of HBcAg-specific B cell responses, accompanied by progressive decreases in serum anti-HBc antibodies. CONCLUSION HBcAg-specific memory B cells present a classical memory B cell phenotype, vary in number and function throughout HBV's natural history and are significantly reduced during antiviral treatment. LAY SUMMARY In recent years, studies examining the role of B cells during chronic hepatitis B virus infection have regained interest. We show that circulating B cells more often target the hepatitis B core antigen than the hepatitis surface antigen. Moreover, these hepatitis B core-specific B cells associate with the natural history of chronic HBV, and their responses decline during effective antiviral treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Vanwolleghem
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp and Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Zwier M A Groothuismink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kim Kreefft
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Magdeleine Hung
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Foster City, United States of America
| | - Nikolai Novikov
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Foster City, United States of America
| | - Andre Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Wu M, Wang C, Shi B, Fang Z, Qin B, Zhou X, Zhang X, Yuan Z. A novel recombinant cccDNA-based mouse model with long term maintenance of rcccDNA and antigenemia. Antiviral Res 2020; 180:104826. [PMID: 32502604 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2020.104826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is critical for viral persistence in vivo. The lack of reliable, characterized and convenient small animal models for studying cccDNA persistence has long been a bottleneck for basic and translational research on HBV cure. A mouse model that can maintain intrahepatic cccDNA is urgently needed. Through combining the Cre/loxP-mediated recombination and adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector delivery strategy, we establish a novel recombinant cccDNA (rcccDNA) mouse model. AAV-rcccDNA mice supported long-term maintenance of intrahepatic rcccDNA which could be easily detected by Southern blotting within 30 weeks after transduction. Quantitative PCR could detect the rcccDNA signal throughout the experiment duration (>51 weeks). Furthermore, rcccDNA supported persistent serum antigenemia (>72 weeks) and intrahepatic HBsAg and HBcAg expression (>51 weeks). Flow cytometry analysis and single-cell RNA sequencing showed that AAV-rcccDNA mice displayed a compromised CD8+ T cell response. Meanwhile, minimal intrahepatic inflammation and fibrosis were observed. Furthermore, three anti-HBV compounds, AKEX0007, a post-transcriptional inhibitor, Bay 41-4109, a capsid allosteric modulator, and Entecavir were assessed in this AAV-rcccDNA mouse model. The changes of viral markers by these drugs were consistent with their mode of action although neither of them diminished the level of rcccDNA. This mouse model recapitulated the immune tolerant state of HBV infection with long term maintenance of cccDNA and antigenemia, which will provide a suitable platform for studying cccDNA persistence and developing intervention strategies that would eventually break the tolerance and clear the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wu
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bisheng Shi
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhong Fang
- Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Boyin Qin
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhou
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaonan Zhang
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Research Unit, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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41
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Liu D, Xu T, Shi B, Lu W, Zheng Y, Feng Y, Yuan Z, Zhang X, Zhang Z. Clinical relevance of the in situ assay for HBV DNA: a cross-sectional study in patients with chronic hepatitis B. J Clin Pathol 2020; 73:813-818. [PMID: 32404474 PMCID: PMC7691808 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2020-206440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aims The visualisation of HBV DNA in liver sections of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in our previous report uncovered a mosaic distribution of viral antigens and nucleic acids. Here we aim to further explore the clinical utility of the in situ hybridisation (ISH) assay for HBV DNA. Method ISH of HBV DNA along with immunohistochemistry (IHC) of HBsAg, HBcAg and routine histopathology analysis was performed in 313 treatment-naive patients with CHB. Serum HBcrAg and HBcAb titre were also measured in addition to basic biochemical and virological parameters. Results The ISH of HBV DNA, HBsAg and HBcAg showed 95.2%, 97.1% and 42.8% positive rate, respectively. The staining pattern of HBV DNA differs significantly with that of HBsAg. Intrahepatic HBV DNA exhibited high-level of correlations with viral load, HBcrAg and HBsAg titre. In HBeAg-negative patients, higher intrahepatic HBV DNA is associated with histological evidence of liver inflammation and fibrosis, whereas no such trend was observed in HBeAg-positive patients. Finally, a triple staining protocol that combined the detection of HBV DNA, HBsAg and collagen fibre was developed to enable better evaluation of viral replication and antigen expression in the context of disease progression. Conclusions The ISH assay for HBV DNA reflects the vigour of intrahepatic viral replication. It is complementary to the routine IHC assay for viral antigens and also related to the histopathological progression of liver diseases. The application of the HBV DNA ISH assay may help a better evaluation of virological and pathological condition of patients with CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danping Liu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tong Xu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bisheng Shi
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Zheng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanling Feng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaonan Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhanqing Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Iacob DG, Rosca A, Ruta SM. Circulating microRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers for hepatitis B virus liver fibrosis. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:1113-1127. [PMID: 32231417 PMCID: PMC7093315 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i11.1113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses can alter the expression of host microRNAs (MiRNA s) and modulate the immune response during a persistent infection. The dysregulation of host MiRNA s by hepatitis B virus (HBV) contributes to the proinflammatory and profibrotic changes within the liver. Multiple studies have documented the differential regulation of intracellular and circulating MiRNA s during different stages of HBV infection. Circulating MiRNA s found in plasma and/or extracellular vesicles can integrate data on viral-host interactions and on the associated liver injury. Hence, the detection of circulating MiRNA s in chronic HBV hepatitis could offer a promising alternative to liver biopsy, as their expression is associated with HBV replication, the progression of liver fibrosis, and the outcome of antiviral treatment. The current review explores the available data on miRNA involvement in HBV pathogenesis with an emphasis on their potential use as biomarkers for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Gabriela Iacob
- Infectious Diseases Department, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
- Bucharest Emergency University Hospital, Bucharest 050098, Romania
| | - Adelina Rosca
- Virology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
- Viral Emerging Diseases Department, Ștefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
| | - Simona Maria Ruta
- Virology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
- Viral Emerging Diseases Department, Ștefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
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43
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A new approach for therapeutic vaccination against chronic HBV infections. Vaccine 2020; 38:3105-3120. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.02.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Xiang C, Du Y, Meng G, Soon Yi L, Sun S, Song N, Zhang X, Xiao Y, Wang J, Yi Z, Liu Y, Xie B, Wu M, Shu J, Sun D, Jia J, Liang Z, Sun D, Huang Y, Shi Y, Xu J, Lu F, Li C, Xiang K, Yuan Z, Lu S, Deng H. Long-term functional maintenance of primary human hepatocytes in vitro. Science 2019; 364:399-402. [PMID: 31023926 DOI: 10.1126/science.aau7307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The maintenance of terminally differentiated cells, especially hepatocytes, in vitro has proven challenging. Here we demonstrated the long-term in vitro maintenance of primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) by modulating cell signaling pathways with a combination of five chemicals (5C). 5C-cultured PHHs showed global gene expression profiles and hepatocyte-specific functions resembling those of freshly isolated counterparts. Furthermore, these cells efficiently recapitulated the entire course of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection over 4 weeks with the production of infectious viral particles and formation of HBV covalently closed circular DNA. Our study demonstrates that, with a chemical approach, functional maintenance of PHHs supports long-term HBV infection in vitro, providing an efficient platform for investigating HBV cell biology and antiviral drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengang Xiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuanyuan Du
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Gaofan Meng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liew Soon Yi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shicheng Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Nan Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaonan Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Yiwei Xiao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jie Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhigang Yi
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yifang Liu
- Center for Bioinformatics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Bingqing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Min Wu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Jun Shu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Da Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Jia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhen Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Dong Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | | | - Yan Shi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jun Xu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Fengmin Lu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Cheng Li
- Center for Bioinformatics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Kuanhui Xiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Shichun Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China.
| | - Hongkui Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University Health Science Center and the MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
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LMX1A inhibits C-Myc expression through ANGPTL4 to exert tumor suppressive role in gastric cancer. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221640. [PMID: 31557193 PMCID: PMC6762061 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Our research group has showed that the LIM homeobox transcription factor 1 alpha (LMX1A) is inactivated in gastric cancers. Overexpression of LMX1A inhibits tumor growth. However, the mechanisms remains unclear. Considering LMX1A as a transcription factor, a comparison of RNA-seq between gastric cancer cells (GCCs) and GCCs with LMX1A overexpressed was performed to identify genes transcriptionally activated by LMX1A. Among the potential LMX1A target genes, angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) has been reported to be an important tumor suppressor and thus was selected for further validation and research. Both LMX1A and ANGPTL4 showed downregulated expression in gastric cancer samples. More importantly, the expression of LMX1A is positively correlated with ANGPTL4, without including other family members in gastric cancer cell lines. What’s more, knockdown of ANGPTL4 rescued the tumor suppressive phenotype of LMX1A overexpression, which indicated that LMX1A upregulates ANGPTL4 to exert its role. Mechanistically, we found that LMX1A inhibited the expression of the oncogene C-Myc, which is alleviated by ANGPTL4 knockdown. In general, our results showed that LMX1A exerts its tumor suppressive role by activating ANGPTL4 to inhibit C-Myc.
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Liu J, Chen S, Zou Z, Tan D, Liu X, Wang X. Pathological Pattern of Intrahepatic HBV in HCC is Phenocopied by PDX-Derived Mice: a Novel Model for Antiviral Treatment. Transl Oncol 2019; 12:1138-1146. [PMID: 31202090 PMCID: PMC6581976 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most prominent risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development and virus-mediated cases represents more than 80% of HCC in East Asia, where it is endemic. Currently, the HBV status of pathological HCC is not fully clarified, especially by comparison to nontumorous tissues. Lack of clinicopathological animal models of HCC impedes clinical application of antiviral treatment in the field. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cohort sample of 14 HCC and corresponding stroma tissues were analyzed for pathological patterns of HBV antigens using immunohistochemistry; 10 fresh primary tumor tissues were inoculated into NOD/SCID mice and risk factors for patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model were identified by the univariate F test. Consistency of HBV features and cellular biomarkers between patient tissues and tumor grafts were examined. RESULTS In HCC, HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) was mainly absent. Only 9.9% of samples showed HBsAg positivity in the tumor tissue that was limited to benign hepatocytes. In contrast, HBV core antigen (HBcAg) exhibited positive staining in all HCC tissues, located mainly in the cytoplasm of tumor cells. Of 14 HCC cases, three were diagnosed as occult infection of HBV based on HBcAg expression. The successful rate for the PDX model was 20% (2/10). Tumor lesions on hepatic lobes of V and VI, severe liver dysfunction and higher CA125 showed p-values of 0.01, 0.035, and 0.01, respectively. HBsAg absence in original tumors of #6 and 8 patients were faithfully reproduced by engraftments. Mixed distribution of HBcAg in cellular compartments of original tumor cells was also observed in mice. ki67 was dramatically increased in tumor grafts. CONCLUSION We delineated pathological HBV profiles of HCC specimens and perilesional areas, which provided evidence for virus-based therapy in the future. PDX mice may phenocopy virological and cellular features of patient tissues, which is novel in the virus-related hepatocarcinogenesis field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Liu
- Department of Endoscope, the General Hospital of Shenyang Military Region, Shenyang 110000, PR China.
| | - Siyuan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing 400007, PR China.
| | - Zhe Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing 400007, PR China.
| | - Dehong Tan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing 400007, PR China.
| | - Xiangde Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing 400007, PR China.
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing 400007, PR China.
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47
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Gao M, Feng C, Ying R, Nie Y, Deng X, Zhu Y, Tang X, Guan Y, Hu F, Li F. A novel one-step quantitative reverse transcription PCR assay for selective amplification of hepatitis B virus pregenomic RNA from a mixture of HBV DNA and RNA in serum. Arch Virol 2019; 164:2683-2690. [PMID: 31428915 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-019-04372-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Current antiviral therapies against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections, such as treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) and interferon alpha, can significantly lower HBV DNA titers, eventually to undetectable levels. However, it is still difficult to completely eliminate the stable template of HBV, the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), and this contributes to viral rebound when treatment is discontinued. HBV pregenomic RNA (pgRNA), which was recently found to be present in the enveloped mature HBV viral particle in blood, is tentatively regarded, with still accumulating clinical evidence, as a novel bona fide virological marker reflecting the amount and status of cccDNA when serum HBV DNA becomes undetectable. HBV pgRNA and DNA share almost identical sequences, and it is therefore difficult to differentiate pgRNA from viral DNA using normal PCR methods. To exclude interference from viral DNA, methods for measuring pgRNA usually require a selective DNA degradation step, which is complicated and time-consuming and also compromises the accuracy of detection. In this study, we developed a simplified quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay with improved accuracy achieved by probing the polyA tail of pgRNA. Using clinical serum samples, we observed that not all patients share the same 3' sequence, suggesting slight differences between HBV strains in the way they end transcription. We then designed and evaluated a universal primer and probe set for distinguishing HBV pgRNA from HBV DNA. Our results demonstrated that a one-step qRT-PCR assay could selectively amplify HBV pgRNA from a mixture of HBV RNA and DNA, which is valuable for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Gao
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengqian Feng
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Ruosu Ying
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuan Nie
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Xizi Deng
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoping Tang
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yujuan Guan
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Fengyu Hu
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China.
| | - Feng Li
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 627 Dongfeng Dong Rd, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China.
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Rat V, Seigneuret F, Burlaud-Gaillard J, Lemoine R, Hourioux C, Zoulim F, Testoni B, Meunier JC, Tauber C, Roingeard P, de Rocquigny H. BAY 41-4109-mediated aggregation of assembled and misassembled HBV capsids in cells revealed by electron microscopy. Antiviral Res 2019; 169:104557. [PMID: 31302151 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2019.104557] [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: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
HBc is a small protein essential for the formation of the icosahedral HBV capsid. Its multiple roles in the replication cycle make this protein a promising target for the development of antiviral molecules. Based on the structure of HBc, a series of HBV assembly inhibitors, also known as capsid assembly modulators, were identified. We investigated the effect of BAY 41-4109, a heteroaryldihydropyrimidine derivative that promotes the assembly of a non-capsid polymer. We showed, by confocal microscopy, that BAY 41-4109 mediated HBc aggregation, mostly in the cytoplasm of Huh7 cells. Image analysis revealed that aggregate size depended on BAY 41-4109 concentration and treatment duration. Large aggregates in the vicinity of the nucleus were enclosed by invaginations of the nuclear envelope. This deformation of the nuclear envelope was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and immuno-TEM. These two techniques also revealed that the HBc aggregates were accumulations of capsid-like shells with an electron-dense material consisting of HBV core fragments. These findings, shedding light on the ultrastructural organization of HBc aggregates, provide insight into the mechanisms of action of BAY 41-4109 against HBV and will serve as a basis for comparison with other HBV capsid assembly inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virgile Rat
- Morphogenèse et Antigénicité Du VIH et des Virus des Hépatites, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Université de Tours et CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Florian Seigneuret
- Morphogenèse et Antigénicité Du VIH et des Virus des Hépatites, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Université de Tours et CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Julien Burlaud-Gaillard
- Plate-Forme IBiSA des Microscopies, PPF ASB, Université de Tours and CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Roxane Lemoine
- B-Cell Resources Platform, EA4245 "Transplantation, Immunologie et Inflammation", Université de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Christophe Hourioux
- Morphogenèse et Antigénicité Du VIH et des Virus des Hépatites, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Université de Tours et CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France; Plate-Forme IBiSA des Microscopies, PPF ASB, Université de Tours and CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008, Lyon, France; University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008, Lyon, France; Department of Hepatology, Croix Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), 69008, Lyon, France; University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, CRCL, 69008, Lyon, France; Department of Hepatology, Croix Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Meunier
- Morphogenèse et Antigénicité Du VIH et des Virus des Hépatites, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Université de Tours et CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Clovis Tauber
- UMRS Inserm U1253 - Université de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Philippe Roingeard
- Morphogenèse et Antigénicité Du VIH et des Virus des Hépatites, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Université de Tours et CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France; Plate-Forme IBiSA des Microscopies, PPF ASB, Université de Tours and CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Hugues de Rocquigny
- Morphogenèse et Antigénicité Du VIH et des Virus des Hépatites, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Université de Tours et CHRU de Tours, 10 Boulevard Tonnellé - BP 3223, 37032, Tours Cedex 1, France.
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Bertoletti A, Kennedy PTF. HBV antiviral immunity: not all CD8 T cells are born equal. Gut 2019; 68:770-773. [PMID: 30700541 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2018-317959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Bertoletti
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.,Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, Singapore
| | - Patrick T F Kennedy
- Liver Centre, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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50
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A global scientific strategy to cure hepatitis B. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 4:545-558. [PMID: 30981686 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(19)30119-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 318] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health challenge on the same scale as tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria. The International Coalition to Eliminate HBV (ICE-HBV) is a coalition of experts dedicated to accelerating the discovery of a cure for chronic hepatitis B. Following extensive consultation with more than 50 scientists from across the globe, as well as key stakeholders including people affected by HBV, we have identified gaps in our current knowledge and new strategies and tools that are required to achieve HBV cure. We believe that research must focus on the discovery of interventional strategies that will permanently reduce the number of productively infected cells or permanently silence the covalently closed circular DNA in those cells, and that will stimulate HBV-specific host immune responses which mimic spontaneous resolution of HBV infection. There is also a pressing need for the establishment of repositories of standardised HBV reagents and protocols that can be accessed by all HBV researchers throughout the world. The HBV cure research agenda outlined in this position paper will contribute markedly to the goal of eliminating HBV infection worldwide.
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