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Jiang Q, Zhang Y, Duan D, Retout S, Upmanyu R, Glavini K, Triyatni M, Zhu Y, Grippo JF, Jin Y. Using exploratory pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analyses to predict the probability of flu-like symptoms in healthy volunteers and patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with the toll-like receptor 7 agonist ruzotolimod. Clin Transl Sci 2024; 17:e13896. [PMID: 39119977 PMCID: PMC11310849 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Ruzotolimod (Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonist, RG7854) is an oral, small molecule immuno-modulator activating the TLR 7 and is being evaluated in patients with CHB. As with other TLR7 agonists, the study drug-related adverse events of flu-like symptoms have been reported in some participants during phase I studies with ruzotolimod. An exploratory analysis of the relationship between pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) and flu-like symptoms was performed in participants from two phase I studies including both healthy volunteers and NUC-suppressed CHB patients who received either single or multiple ascending doses of orally administered ruzotolimod. Linear and logistic regression were used to explore potential relationships between dose, flu-like symptoms, PK, and PD. Generalized linear regression was performed to predict the probability of flu-like symptoms of all intensities at different RO7011785 (the active metabolite of the double prodrug ruzotolimod) PK exposure. This analysis showed that single or multiple doses of ruzotolimod at ⩾100 mg, the immune PD (IFN-α, neopterin, IP-10, and the transcriptional expression of ISG15, OAS-1, MX1, and TLR7) responses increase with the RO7011785 PK exposure, which increases linearly with the doses from 3 mg to 170 mg of ruzotolimod. The analysis also showed that the probability of flu-like symptoms occurrence increases with PD responses (IFN-α and IP-10). Dose reduction of ruzotolimod can be an effective way to reduce the magnitude of PD response, thus reducing the probability of study drug-related flu-like symptoms occurrence at all intensity in the participants who are highly sensitive to PD activation and intolerant to flu-like symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dan Duan
- Roche Innovation CenterShanghaiChina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yuyan Jin
- Roche Innovation CenterShanghaiChina
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Parsania M, Khorrami SMS, Hasanzad M, Parsania N, Nagozir S, Mokhtari N, Habibabadi HM, Ghaziasadi A, Soltani S, Jafarpour A, Pakzad R, Jazayeri SM. Association of polymorphisms in TLR3 and TLR7 genes with susceptibility to COVID-19 among Iranian population: a retrospective case-control study. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY 2024; 16:114-123. [PMID: 38682063 PMCID: PMC11055434 DOI: 10.18502/ijm.v16i1.14880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Host genetic changes like single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are one of the main factors influencing susceptibility to viral infectious diseases. This study aimed to investigate the association between the host SNP of Toll-Like Receptor3 (TLR3) and Toll-Like Receptor7 (TLR7) genes involved in the immune system and susceptibility to COVID-19 in a sample of the Iranian population. Materials and Methods This retrospective case-control study evaluated 244 hospitalized COVID-19 patients as the case group and 156 suspected COVID-19 patients with mild signs as the control group. The genomic DNA of patients was genotyped for TLR7 (rs179008 and rs179009) and TLR3 (rs3775291 and rs3775296) SNPs using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Results A significant association between rs179008 SNP in the TLR7 gene and the susceptibility of COVID-19 was found between case and control groups. The AT genotype (Heterozygous) of TLR7 rs179008 A>T polymorphism showed a significant association with a 2.261-fold increased odds of COVID-19 (P=0.003; adjusted OR: 2.261; 99% CI: 1.117-4.575). In addition, a significant association between TC genotype of TLR7 rs179009 T>C polymorphism and increased odds of COVID-19 (P<0.0001; adjusted OR: 6.818; 99% CI: 3.149-14.134) were determined. The polymorphism frequency of TLR3 rs3775291 and rs3775296 genotypes were not significantly different between the case and control groups (P> 0.004167). Conclusion SNPs in TLR7 rs179008 and rs179009 genotypes are considered host genetic factors that could be influenced individual susceptibility to COVID-19. The SNPs in TLR3 (rs3775296 and rs3775291) showed no significant association with COVID-19 in Iranian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Parsania
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mandana Hasanzad
- Medical Genomics Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Personalized Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negar Parsania
- Medical Genomics Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Nagozir
- Medical Genomics Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narges Mokhtari
- Medical Genomics Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Azam Ghaziasadi
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saber Soltani
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Jafarpour
- Amir-al-Momenin Medical and Educational Center, Gerash University of Medical Sciences, Gerash, Iran
| | - Reza Pakzad
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Jazayeri
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ahmadi N, Aghasadeghi M, Hamidi-Fard M, Motevalli F, Bahramali G. Reverse Vaccinology and Immunoinformatic Approach for Designing a Bivalent Vaccine Candidate Against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B Viruses. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00867-z. [PMID: 37715882 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00867-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis A and B are two crucial viral infections that still dramatically affect public health worldwide. Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) is the main cause of acute hepatitis, whereas Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) leads to the chronic form of the disease, possibly cirrhosis or liver failure. Therefore, vaccination has always been considered the most effective preventive method against pathogens. At this moment, we aimed at the immunoinformatic analysis of HAV-Viral Protein 1 (VP1) as the major capsid protein to come up with the most conserved immunogenic truncated protein to be fused by HBV surface antigen (HBs Ag) to achieve a bivalent vaccine against HAV and HBV using an AAY linker. Various computational approaches were employed to predict highly conserved regions and the most immunogenic B-cell and T-cell epitopes of HAV-VP1 capsid protein in both humans and BALB/c. Moreover, the predicted fusion protein was analyzed regarding primary and secondary structures and also homology validation. Afterward, the three-dimensional structure of vaccine constructs docked with various toll-like receptors (TLR) 2, 4 and 7. According to the bioinformatics tools, the region of 99-259 amino acids of VP1 was selected with high immunogenicity and conserved epitopes. T-cell epitope prediction showed that this region contains 32 antigenic peptides for Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and 20 antigenic peptides in terms of HLA class II which are almost fully conserved in the Iranian population. The vaccine design includes 5 linear and 4 conformational B-cell lymphocyte (BCL) epitopes to induce humoral immune responses. The designed VP1-AAY-HBsAg fusion protein has the potency to be constructed and expressed to achieve a bivalent vaccine candidate, especially in the Iranian population. These findings led us to claim that the designed vaccine candidate provides potential pathways for creating an exploratory vaccine against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B Viruses with high confidence for the identified strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Ahmadi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Aghasadeghi
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS and Blood Borne Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, No: 69, Pasteur Ave, Tehran, 13165, Iran
- Viral Vaccine Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Hamidi-Fard
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS and Blood Borne Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, No: 69, Pasteur Ave, Tehran, 13165, Iran
- Viral Vaccine Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Motevalli
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS and Blood Borne Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, No: 69, Pasteur Ave, Tehran, 13165, Iran
| | - Golnaz Bahramali
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS and Blood Borne Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, No: 69, Pasteur Ave, Tehran, 13165, Iran.
- Viral Vaccine Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Simón-Fuentes M, Herrero C, Acero-Riaguas L, Nieto C, Lasala F, Labiod N, Luczkowiak J, Alonso B, Delgado R, Colmenares M, Corbí ÁL, Domínguez-Soto Á. TLR7 Activation in M-CSF-Dependent Monocyte-Derived Human Macrophages Potentiates Inflammatory Responses and Prompts Neutrophil Recruitment. J Innate Immun 2023; 15:517-530. [PMID: 37040733 PMCID: PMC10315069 DOI: 10.1159/000530249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is an endosomal pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) receptor that senses single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) and whose engagement results in the production of type I IFN and pro-inflammatory cytokines upon viral exposure. Recent genetic studies have established that a dysfunctional TLR7-initiated signaling is directly linked to the development of inflammatory responses. We present evidence that TLR7 is preferentially expressed by monocyte-derived macrophages generated in the presence of M-CSF (M-MØ). We now show that TLR7 activation in M-MØ triggers a weak MAPK, NFκB, and STAT1 activation and results in low production of type I IFN. Of note, TLR7 engagement reprograms MAFB+ M-MØ towards a pro-inflammatory transcriptional profile characterized by the expression of neutrophil-attracting chemokines (CXCL1-3, CXCL5, CXCL8), whose expression is dependent on the transcription factors MAFB and AhR. Moreover, TLR7-activated M-MØ display enhanced pro-inflammatory responses and a stronger production of neutrophil-attracting chemokines upon secondary stimulation. As aberrant TLR7 signaling and enhanced pulmonary neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio associate with impaired resolution of virus-induced inflammatory responses, these results suggest that targeting macrophage TLR7 might be a therapeutic strategy for viral infections where monocyte-derived macrophages exhibit a pathogenic role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Simón-Fuentes
- Myeloid Cell Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Herrero
- Myeloid Cell Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucia Acero-Riaguas
- Myeloid Cell Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Concha Nieto
- Myeloid Cell Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fatima Lasala
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (imas12), Universidad Complutense School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Labiod
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (imas12), Universidad Complutense School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joanna Luczkowiak
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (imas12), Universidad Complutense School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bárbara Alonso
- Myeloid Cell Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Delgado
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (imas12), Universidad Complutense School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Colmenares
- Myeloid Cell Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel L Corbí
- Myeloid Cell Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
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Yuen MF, Balabanska R, Cottreel E, Chen E, Duan D, Jiang Q, Patil A, Triyatni M, Upmanyu R, Zhu Y, Canducci F, Gane EJ. TLR7 agonist RO7020531 versus placebo in healthy volunteers and patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection: a randomised, observer-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1 trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 23:496-507. [PMID: 36509100 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(22)00727-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonists augment immune activity and have potential for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We aimed to assess the safety and tolerability of RO7020531 (also called RG7854), a prodrug of the TLR7 agonist RO7011785, in healthy volunteers and patients with chronic HBV infection. METHODS This randomised, observer-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1 study was done in two parts. Part 1 was done at one site in New Zealand and part 2 was done at 12 sites in Bulgaria, Hong Kong, Italy, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Taiwan, Thailand, and the UK. In part 1, healthy volunteers were randomly assigned (4:1) within one of eight dose cohorts (3 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 100 mg, 140 mg, or 170 mg) to receive a single RO7020531 dose or placebo or randomly assigned (4:1) within one of three dose cohorts (100 mg, 140 mg, or 170 mg) to receive either RO7020531 or placebo every other day for 13 days. In part 2, nucleoside or nucleotide analogue-suppressed patients with chronic HBV infection were randomly assigned (4:1) within cohorts 1-3 (150 mg, 150 mg, or 170 mg) to receive either RO7020531 or placebo and treatment-naive patients with chronic HBV infection were randomly assigned (3:1) in cohort 4 to receive either 150 mg of RO7020531 or placebo. Patients were treated every other day for 6 weeks. Study medication was administered orally to participants after they had fasted. Study participants and investigational staff were masked to treatment allocation. The primary outcome was the safety and tolerability of RO7020531, as measured by the incidence and severity of adverse events and the incidence of laboratory, vital sign, and electrocardiogram abnormalities, and was analysed in all participants who received at least one dose of the study medication. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02956850, and the study is complete. FINDINGS Between Dec 12, 2016, and March 21, 2021, 340 healthy volunteers were screened in part 1, of whom 80 were randomly assigned in the single ascending dose study (eight assigned RO7020531 in each cohort and 16 assigned placebo) and 30 were randomly assigned in the multiple ascending dose study (eight assigned RO7020531 in each cohort and six assigned placebo), and 110 patients were screened in part 2, of whom 30 were randomly assigned in cohorts 1-3 (16 assigned RO7020531 150 mg, eight assigned RO7020531 170 mg, and six assigned placebo) and 20 were randomly assigned in cohort 4 (15 assigned RO7020531 and five assigned placebo). All randomly assigned participants received at least one dose of a study drug and were included in the safety analysis. All tested doses of RO7020531 were safe and had acceptable tolerability in healthy volunteers and patients. The most frequent treatment-related adverse events among the total study population were headache (15 [9%] of 160 participants), influenza-like illness (seven [4%] of 160 participants), and pyrexia (ten [6%] of 160 participants). Most adverse events were mild and transient. There were no severe or serious adverse events in healthy volunteers. In the patient cohorts, there was one severe adverse event (influenza-like illness with 170 mg of RO7020531) and one serious adverse event (moderate influenza-like illness with a 3-day hospitalisation in a treatment-naive patient receiving RO7020531). There were no treatment-related deaths. INTERPRETATION Due to acceptable safety and tolerability, RO7020531 should continue to be developed for the treatment of patients with chronic HBV infection. FUNDING F Hoffmann-La Roche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man-Fung Yuen
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Rozalina Balabanska
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Acibadem City Clinic Tokuda Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Emmanuelle Cottreel
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ethan Chen
- Roche Pharma Product Development China, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Duan
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiudi Jiang
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Avinash Patil
- Product Development Data Science Department, Roche Products, Welwyn, UK
| | - Miriam Triyatni
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ruchi Upmanyu
- Product Development Data Science Department, Roche Products, Welwyn, UK
| | - Yonghong Zhu
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Filippo Canducci
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Edward J Gane
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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6
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Wu LS, Hu Y, Gane EJ, Slaets L, De Creus A, Ding Y, Niu J, Schwabe C, Goeyvaerts N, Xu Z, Huo D, Tuefferd M, Verbrugge I, Van Remoortere P, Schwertschlag U, Vandenbossche J. Population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic models of JNJ-64794964, a toll-like receptor 7 agonist, in healthy adult participants. Antivir Ther 2023; 28:13596535231151626. [PMID: 36691849 DOI: 10.1177/13596535231151626] [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: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND JNJ-4964 is a TLR7 agonist, which, via a type I interferon (IFN)-dependent mechanism, may enhance host immunity suppressed by persistent exposure to hepatitis B antigens in chronic hepatitis B. METHODS PK and PD data were pooled from 2 studies involving 90 participants (n = 74 JNJ-4964, dose range 0.2-1.8 mg; n = 16 placebo) in a fasted state. Food effects on PK were studied in 24 participants (1.2 or 1.25 mg). A population PK model and PK/PD models were developed to characterize the effect of JNJ-4964 plasma levels on the time course of IFN-α, IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 (IP-10 or CXCL10), IFN-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), neopterin and lymphocytes following single and weekly dosing in healthy adults. Covariate effects, circadian rhythms and negative feedback were incorporated in the models. RESULTS A 3-compartment linear PK model with transit absorption adequately described JNJ-4964 PK. Bioavailability was 44.2% in fed state relative to fasted conditions. Indirect response models with maximum effect (Emax) stimulation on production rate constant (kin) described IFN-α, IP-10, ISG15 and neopterin, while a precursor-dependent indirect response model with inhibitory effect described the transient lymphocyte reduction. Emax, EC50 and γ (steepness) estimates varied according to PD markers, with EC50 displaying substantial between-subject variability. Female and Asian race exhibited lower EC50, suggesting higher responsiveness. CONCLUSIONS PK/PD models well characterized the time course of immune system markers in healthy adults. Our results supported sex and race as covariates on JNJ-4964 responsiveness, as well as circadian rhythms and negative feedback as homeostatic mechanisms that are relevant in TLR7-induced type I IFN responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yue Hu
- 117971The First Hospital of Jilin University, Department of Hepatology, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Edward J Gane
- New Zealand Liver Transplant Unit, Auckland City Hospital and University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Leen Slaets
- Janssen Research & Development, 50148Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - An De Creus
- Janssen Research & Development, 50148Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Yanhua Ding
- 117971The First Hospital of Jilin University, Department of Hepatology, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Junqi Niu
- 117971The First Hospital of Jilin University, Department of Hepatology, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Christian Schwabe
- Auckland Clinical Studies, New Zealand Clinical Research, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nele Goeyvaerts
- Janssen Research & Development, 50148Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Zhongnan Xu
- Chia Tai-Tianqing Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dandan Huo
- Chia Tai-Tianqing Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Marianne Tuefferd
- Janssen Research & Development, 50148Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Inge Verbrugge
- Janssen Research & Development, 50148Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | | | - Joris Vandenbossche
- Janssen Research & Development, 50148Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
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Relation between levels of toll-like receptors 3 and 7 and clinical profile of Child-Pugh B cirrhotic patients. Clin Exp Hepatol 2021; 7:293-296. [PMID: 34712831 PMCID: PMC8527339 DOI: 10.5114/ceh.2021.109336] [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: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim of the study Growing data show that toll-like receptors (TLRs) have considerable roles in the pathogenesis of many liver diseases. We aimed to study the relation between TLR3 and TLR7 levels and clinical manifestations of liver decompensation among hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected Child-Pugh B patients. Material and methods This study included 60 adult patients with Child-Pugh B liver cirrhosis on top of untreated HCV infection. We performed a two-step clustering algorithm depending on TLR-3 gene expression, TLR-7 gene expression, and other influential patients’ characteristics. Results Patients were optimally divided into 2 clusters, each cluster containing 30 patients. The average silhouette score of the clustering algorithm was 0.52, indicating a good clustering power of the model. Patients in cluster 1 showed lower relative expression of TLR3 (0.188 vs. 0.29). The same was true of TLR7 (0.20 vs. 0.31). All patients within cluster 1 had lower limb edema and 93% of them had ascites. On the other hand, no one within cluster 2 had ascites or lower limb edema. The mean platelet count was lower in patients within cluster 1 (74,000 vs. 100,000 cell/mm3). The mean international normalized ratio (INR) level was higher in cluster 1 (1.61 vs. 1.3). The mean Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was higher in cluster 1 (15 vs. 10). Conclusions From these results, we can suggest that lower TLR3 and TLR7 can lead to worse clinical manifestations among patients with HCV-related liver cirrhosis. A deeper exploration of this point can open the door for new approaches for managing decompensated cirrhosis.
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Chen Z, Shi SH, Huang Y, Huang CQ, Liu RC, Cheng LF, Fu GH, Chen HM, Wan CH, Fu QL. Differential metabolism-associated gene expression of duck pancreatic cells in response to two strains of duck hepatitis A virus type 1. Arch Virol 2021; 166:3105-3116. [PMID: 34482448 PMCID: PMC8497338 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-021-05199-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Several outbreaks of duck hepatitis A virus type 1 (DHAV-1), which were characterized by yellow coloration and hemorrhage in pancreatic tissues, have occurred in China. The causative agent is called pancreatitis-associated DHAV-1. The mechanisms involved in pancreatitis-associated DHAV-1 infection are still unclear. Transcriptome analysis of duck pancreas infected with classical-type DHAV-1 and pancreatitis-associated DHAV-1 was carried out. Deep sequencing with Illumina-Solexa resulted in a total of 53.9 Gb of clean data from the cDNA library of the pancreas, and a total of 29,597 unigenes with an average length of 993.43 bp were generated by de novo sequence assembly. The expression levels of D-3-phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase, phosphoserine aminotransferase, and phosphoserine phosphatase, which are involved in glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism pathways, were significantly downregulated in ducks infected with pancreatitis-associated DHAV-1 compared with those infected with classical-type DHAV-1. These findings provide information regarding differences in expression levels of metabolism-associated genes between ducks infected with pancreatitis-associated DHAV-1 and those infected with classical-type DHAV-1, indicating that intensive metabolism disorders may contribute to the different phenotypes of DHAV-1-infection.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acids/genetics
- Amino Acids/metabolism
- Animals
- Ducks/virology
- Gene Expression
- Hepatitis Virus, Duck/pathogenicity
- Hepatitis, Viral, Animal/genetics
- Hepatitis, Viral, Animal/metabolism
- Hepatitis, Viral, Animal/pathology
- Hepatitis, Viral, Animal/virology
- Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics
- Pancreas/cytology
- Pancreas/pathology
- Pancreas/virology
- Pancreatitis/pathology
- Pancreatitis/virology
- Picornaviridae Infections/metabolism
- Picornaviridae Infections/pathology
- Picornaviridae Infections/veterinary
- Picornaviridae Infections/virology
- Poultry Diseases/genetics
- Poultry Diseases/metabolism
- Poultry Diseases/pathology
- Poultry Diseases/virology
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Sequence Analysis, RNA
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Chen
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Shao-Hua Shi
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu Huang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
| | - Cui-Qin Huang
- College of Life Sciences, Longyan University, Longyan, 364012, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong-Chang Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Long-Fei Cheng
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang-Hua Fu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Mei Chen
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun-He Wan
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiu-Ling Fu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Avian Diseases Control and Prevention, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Animal Diseases Control Technology Development Center, Fuzhou, 350013, Fujian, People's Republic of China
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9
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Grippo JF, Folitar I, Passe S, Jiang Q, Rodriguez I, Fettner SH, Calleja E. Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of a TLR7 agonist prodrug RO6870868 in healthy volunteers. Clin Transl Sci 2021; 14:1524-1534. [PMID: 33742764 PMCID: PMC8301559 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RO6870868 is an oral prodrug of the toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR7) specific agonist, RO6871765. TLR7 agonists augment host immune activity and are in development to treat hepatitis B infection. We evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PKs), and pharmacodynamics (PDs) of RO6870868 in a first‐in‐human, phase I, randomized, single ascending oral dose study in 60 healthy volunteers at 6 dose levels (200–2000 mg). Single oral doses were generally well‐tolerated with a predictable safety profile associated with dose‐dependent increases in systemic interferon. No serious adverse events (AEs) were reported and no subject withdrew from the study due to an AE. No clinically significant changes were observed in vital signs, electrocardiograms, or laboratory parameters. Following oral RO6870868 doses, plasma RO6871765 concentrations increased rapidly, exhibiting mean terminal half‐life ranging 2–6 h across all cohorts, with area under the plasma concentration versus time curve extrapolated to infinity (AUC0‐∞) increasing proportionally with dose. A pattern of dose and time‐dependent PD activity was demonstrated consistent with engagement of the TLR7 system. Single RO6870868 doses activated components of the TLR innate immune system in a dose‐dependent manner with adequate safety and tolerability. Single‐dose data in healthy volunteers are useful to evaluate safety, PK, and PD activity of TLR7 agonists and help to guide dose and regimen selection for further trials in patients with chronic hepatitis B.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sharon Passe
- Roche Innovation Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Qiudi Jiang
- Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Shanghai, China
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10
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Zhang T, Zhu J, Su B, Cao L, Li Z, Wei H, Huang X, Zheng K, Li A, Chen N, Liu L, Xia W, Wu H, He Q. Effects of TLR7 Polymorphisms on the Susceptibility and Progression of HIV-1 Infection in Chinese MSM Population. Front Immunol 2020; 11:589010. [PMID: 33193416 PMCID: PMC7649213 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.589010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 plays a key role in innate and adaptive immunity for HIV-1 infection. We evaluated the effect of TLR7 polymorphisms on disease susceptibility and progression of HIV-1 infection in Chinese MSM (men who have sex with men). Blood samples were taken from 270 patients with laboratory confirmed HIV infection, 196 male controls were tested, and three TLR7 intronic polymorphisms (rs179010-C > T, X:12884766; rs2074109-T > C, X:12885330; and rs179009-A > G, X:12885361) were analyzed by PCR-based sequencing. The frequency of TLR7 rs179010 T allele was significantly lower in MSM patients than in controls (P = 0.039). The haplotype TTA was associated with a decreased susceptibility to HIV-1 infection (P = 0.013), especially to acute HIV-1 infection (AHI) (P = 0.002), but not to chronic HIV-1 infection (CHI). Furthermore, the haplotype TTA is linked to slow disease progression in AHI patients (P = 0.002) and a lower viral load (P = 0.042). In contrast, TLR7 rs179009 allele A contributed to a higher set point in AHI patients with rapid progression, and the frequency of rs179009 minor allele G was over-presented in CHI patients. This finding supports a role for genetic variations of TLR7 in susceptibility and disease progression of an HIV-1 infection in Chinese Han population and warrants further studies on the effect of TLR7 polymorphisms on HIV-1 infection in different populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhang
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Junping Zhu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Research Centre of Microbiome, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Su
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lina Cao
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Research Centre of Microbiome, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Huanhuan Wei
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Research Centre of Microbiome, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojie Huang
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Zheng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Research Centre of Microbiome, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Aixin Li
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Chen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Research Centre of Microbiome, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lifeng Liu
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiushui He
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Research Centre of Microbiome, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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11
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Luk A, Jiang Q, Glavini K, Triyatni M, Zhao N, Racek T, Zhu Y, Grippo JF. A Single and Multiple Ascending Dose Study of Toll-Like Receptor 7 Agonist (RO7020531) in Chinese Healthy Volunteers. Clin Transl Sci 2020; 13:985-993. [PMID: 32268000 PMCID: PMC7485962 DOI: 10.1111/cts.12791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonists modulate broad spectrum immune activity and are evaluated in the treatment of human diseases, including cancer and chronic viral infection. RO7020531, an oral prodrug of a TLR7 agonist, is in clinical development as part of a curative regimen against chronic hepatitis B. We report the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PKs), and pharmacodynamics (PDs) of RO7020531 in healthy Chinese volunteers following single and multiple ascending doses (SAD and MAD). PK and PD samples were evaluated from four SAD cohorts and 3 MAD cohorts with 10 subjects each (8 active and 2 placebo). Safety and tolerability were monitored throughout the study. A total of 155 adverse events (AEs) were reported in 49 subjects. Fifty‐one AEs in 18 subjects were assessed as treatment‐related. Most of the AEs were mild; nine subjects experienced moderate AEs; there were no severe AEs. In two 150 mg MAD cohorts given every other day (q.o.d.), 7 of 20 subjects experienced pyrexia and were discontinued due to transient asymptomatic lymphopenia, which resolved 24–48 hours postdose. The PK of the active metabolite, RO7011785, increased linearly with dose from 40 mg to 170 mg. There was no PK accumulation following q.o.d. dosing. The PK profile is consistent with observations in white subjects in the global first‐in‐human study. SADs and MADs of RO7020531 resulted in dose‐dependent increases in TLR7 response markers at 100 mg or above. Flu‐like symptoms were associated with higher interferon‐α levels. RO7020531 was safe and acceptably tolerated in healthy Chinese volunteers with a multiple 150 mg q.o.d. dose regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Luk
- Phase 1 Clinical Trial Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qiudi Jiang
- Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | - Na Zhao
- Roche Pharma Development Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Tomas Racek
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yonghong Zhu
- Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Shanghai, China
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12
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Fischer L, Hay DC, O'Farrelly C. Innate immunity in stem cell-derived hepatocytes. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2019; 373:rstb.2017.0220. [PMID: 29786555 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2017.0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-derived hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) offer great opportunities for studies of host-pathogen interactions and tissue regeneration, as well as hepatotoxicity. To reliably predict the outcome of infection or to enhance graft survival, a finely tuned innate immune system is essential. Hepatocytes have long been considered solely metabolic and their critical innate immune potential is only recently gaining attention. Viral infection studies show that pathogen detection by cytosolic receptors leads to interferon (IFN) induction in primary hepatocytes and HLCs. IFN expression in HLCs is characterized by strong expression of type III IFN and low expression of type I IFN which is also a characteristic of primary hepatocytes. The response to IFN differs in HLCs with lower interferon-stimulated gene (ISG)-expression levels than in primary hepatocytes. Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) signalling is less studied in HLCs, but appears to be functional. Expression of toll-like receptors (TLR) 2-5, 7 and 9 has been reported in primary hepatocytes but has been poorly studied in HLCs. In summary, although they retain some immature features, HLCs are in many ways superior to hepatoma cell lines for cell-based modelling. In this review, we will provide an overview of innate immune signalling in HLCs and how this compares with primary hepatocytes.This article is part of the themed issue 'Designer human tissue: coming to a lab near you'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Fischer
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Republic of Ireland
| | - David C Hay
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Cliona O'Farrelly
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Republic of Ireland
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13
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Buschow SI, Biesta PJ, Groothuismink ZMA, Erler NS, Vanwolleghem T, Ho E, Najera I, Ait-Goughoulte M, de Knegt RJ, Boonstra A, Woltman AM. TLR7 polymorphism, sex and chronic HBV infection influence plasmacytoid DC maturation by TLR7 ligands. Antiviral Res 2018; 157:27-37. [PMID: 29964062 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2018.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
TLR7 agonists are of high interest for the treatment of cancer, auto-immunity and chronic viral infections. They are known to activate plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) to produce high amounts of Type I Interferon (IFN) and to facilitate T and B cell responses, the latter with the help of maturation markers such as CD40, CD80 and CD86. The TLR7 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs179008 (GLn11Leu), sex and chronic viral infection have all been reported to influence pDC IFN production. It is unknown, however, whether these factors also influence pDC phenotypic maturation and thereby IFN-independent pDC functions. Furthermore, it is unclear whether SNP rs179008 influences HBV susceptibility and/or clearance. Here we investigated whether the SNP rs179008, sex and HBV infection affected phenotypic maturation of pDCs from 38 healthy individuals and 28 chronic HBV patients. In addition, we assessed SNP prevalence in a large cohort of healthy individuals (n = 231) and chronic HBV patients (n = 1054). Consistent with previous reports, the rs179008 variant allele was largely absent in Asians and more prevalent in Caucasians. Among Caucasians, the SNP was equally prevalent in healthy and chronically infected males. The SNP was, however, significantly more prevalent in healthy females than in those with chronic HBV infection (42 versus 28%), suggesting that in females it may offer protection from chronic infection. Ex vivo experiments demonstrated that induction of the co-stimulatory molecules CD40 and CD86 by TLR7 ligands, but not TLR9 ligands, was augmented in pDCs from healthy SNP-carrying females. Furthermore, CD80 and CD86 upregulation was more pronounced in females independent of the SNP. Lastly, our data suggested that chronic HBV infection impairs pDC maturation. These findings provide insight into factors determining TLR7 responses, which is important for further clinical development of TLR7-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja I Buschow
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paula J Biesta
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Zwier M A Groothuismink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole S Erler
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Vanwolleghem
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC 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
| | - Erwin Ho
- 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
| | - Isabel Najera
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center Basel, Switzerland
| | - Malika Ait-Goughoulte
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center Basel, Switzerland
| | - Robert J de Knegt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andre Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea M Woltman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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14
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Abstract
With high morbidity and mortality worldwide, there is great interest in effective therapies for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) virus. There are currently several dozen investigational agents being developed for treatment of CHB. They can be broadly divided into two categories: (1) direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) that interfere with a specific step in viral replication; and (2) host-targeting agents that inhibit viral replication by modifying host cell function, with the latter group further divided into the subcategories of immune modulators and agents that target other host functions. Included among the DAAs being developed are RNA interference therapies, covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) formation and transcription inhibitors, core/capsid inhibitors, reverse transcriptase inhibitors, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) release inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides, and helioxanthin analogues. Included among the host-targeting agents are entry inhibitors, cyclophilin inhibitors, and multiple immunomodulatory agents, including Toll-like receptor agonists, immune checkpoint inhibitors, therapeutic vaccines, engineered T cells, and several cytokine agents, including recombinant human interleukin-7 (CYT107) and SB 9200, a novel therapy that is believed to both have direct antiviral properties and to induce endogenous interferon. In this review we discuss agents that are currently in the clinical stage of development for CHB treatment as well as strategies and agents currently at the evaluation and discovery phase and potential future targets. Effective approaches to CHB may require suppression of viral replication combined with one or more host-targeting agents. Some of the recent research advances have led to the hope that with such a combined approach we may have a functional cure for CHB in the not distant future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Altaf Dawood
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Syed Abdul Basit
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Mahendran Jayaraj
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Robert G Gish
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA.
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, PA, USA.
- Asian Pacific Health Foundation, San Diego, CA, USA.
- National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable, Washington, DC, USA.
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15
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Schinazi RF, Ehteshami M, Bassit L, Asselah T. Towards HBV curative therapies. Liver Int 2018; 38 Suppl 1:102-114. [PMID: 29427479 PMCID: PMC6481632 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Tremendous progress has been made over the last 2 decades to discover and develop approaches to control hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections and to prevent the development of hepatocellular carcinoma using various interferons and small molecules as antiviral agents. However, none of these agents have significant impact on eliminating HBV from infected cells. Currently the emphasis is on silencing or eliminating cccDNA, which could lead to a cure for HBV. Various approaches are being developed including the development of capsid effectors, CRISPR/Cas9, TALENS, siRNA, entry and secretion inhibitors, as well as immunological approaches. It is very likely that a combination of these modalities will need to be employed to successfully eliminate HBV or prevent virus rebound on discontinuation of therapy. In the next 5 years clinical data will emerge which will provide insight on the safety and feasibility of these approaches and if they can be applied to eradicate HBV infections globally. In this review, we summarize current treatments and we highlight and examine recent therapeutic strategies that are currently being evaluated at the preclinical and clinical stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond F. Schinazi
- Center for AIDS Research, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Maryam Ehteshami
- Center for AIDS Research, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Leda Bassit
- Center for AIDS Research, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tarik Asselah
- Department of Hepatology, Centre de Recherche sur l’Inflammation, Viral Hepatitis INSERM UMR 1149, AP-HP Hôpital Beaujon, Université Paris Diderot, Clichy, France
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16
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Arends JE, Lieveld FI, Ahmad S, Ustianowski A. New Viral and Immunological Targets for Hepatitis B Treatment and Cure: A Review. Infect Dis Ther 2017; 6:461-476. [PMID: 29071665 PMCID: PMC5700893 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-017-0173-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although current therapies can be successful at suppressing hepatitis B viral load, long-term viral cure is not within reach. Subsequent strategies combining pegylated interferon alfa with nucleoside/nucleotide analogues have not resulted in any major paradigm shift. An improved understanding of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) lifec ycle and virus-induced immune dysregulation has, however, revealed many potential therapeutic targets, and there are hopes that treatment of hepatitis B could soon be revolutionized. This review summarizes the current developments in HBV therapeutics-both virus directed and host directed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joop E Arends
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Faydra I Lieveld
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Shazaad Ahmad
- Regional Infectious Diseases Unit, North Manchester General Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Andrew Ustianowski
- Regional Infectious Diseases Unit, North Manchester General Hospital, Manchester, UK
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17
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Toll like receptor7 polymorphisms in relation to disease susceptibility and progression in Chinese patients with chronic HBV infection. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12417. [PMID: 28963470 PMCID: PMC5622102 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12698-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a key role in innate and adaptive immunity, protecting the host from viral pathogens. We studied the effect of TLR7 polymorphisms on disease susceptibility and progression of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection in Chinese adults. Blood samples were taken from 612 patients with confirmed CHB, hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related liver cirrhosis (LC) or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 293 controls. TLR7 polymorphisms (rs179010-C > T, rs2074109-T > C, and rs179009-A > G) were analyzed by PCR-based sequencing. A significantly higher frequency of TLR7 rs179010 C allele was found in male CHB patients than in controls (74.8% vs 59.5%, P = 0.002). The frequency of rs179009 G allele was markedly increased with disease progression when male patients with CHB, LC and HCC were compared (P = 0.012). The haplotype CTA was significantly associated with an increased susceptibility to CHB among male patients (P = 0.000). Frequency of the haplotype CTG was higher in male patients with HCC than CHB (P = 0.005). No such differences in these allele frequencies were found between female patients and controls. Our results indicated that TLR7 polymorphisms play an important role in disease susceptibility and the progression of CHB infections in Chinese adults, and may partly explain the high incidence of HBV related diseases in Chinese men.
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18
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Mele D, Mantovani S, Oliviero B, Grossi G, Ludovisi S, Mondelli MU, Varchetta S. Hepatitis C virus inhibits CD4 T cell function via binding to Toll-like receptor 7. Antiviral Res 2016; 137:108-111. [PMID: 27876497 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2016.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is a ssRNA receptor that activates dendritic cells and macrophages upon ssRNA binding; however, little is known of its role in CD4+ T cells. We show here that hepatitis C virus (HCV) induces a dose dependent inhibition of cytokine production and expression of activation markers in CD4 T cells, which were restored by a TLR7-specific antagonist. These findings indicate that HCV induces CD4 T cell impairment via TLR7 which may contribute to failure of virus eradication, casting doubts on the use of TLR7 agonists to boost innate immunity in chronic RNA virus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalila Mele
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Stefania Mantovani
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Barbara Oliviero
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Giulia Grossi
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Serena Ludovisi
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Mario U Mondelli
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Stefania Varchetta
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
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19
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Ward H, Tang L, Poonia B, Kottilil S. Treatment of hepatitis B virus: an update. Future Microbiol 2016; 11:1581-1597. [PMID: 27855500 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2016-0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus infection is a global health concern as it affects over 240 million people worldwide and an estimated 686,000 people die annually as a result of complications of the disease. With the development of newer antiviral drugs, viral suppression of HBV is achievable, however elimination of HBV from infected individuals (functional cure) remains an issue. Due to persistence of HBV DNA (cccDNA) in infected cells, chronically infected patients who discontinue therapy prior to HBsAg loss or seroconversion are likely to relapse. Several novel therapeutic strategies are being researched and studied in clinical trials. Here we review these novel strategies to achieve sustained cure or elimination of HBV. These strategies include the targeting of the host or viral factors required for viral persistence as well as therapeutic vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley Ward
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lydia Tang
- Division of Clinical Care & Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Bhawna Poonia
- Division of Clinical Care & Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care & Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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20
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Lin CL, Kao JH. Review article: novel therapies for hepatitis B virus cure - advances and perspectives. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:213-22. [PMID: 27302653 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 03/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current anti-viral therapies, interferon and nucleos(t)ide analogues, have been proven to reduce the progression of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) persists, resulting in viral relapse after the discontinuation of treatment. AIM To discuss and review novel therapies for chronic hepatitis B infection. METHODS Recent published studies which searched from PubMed were comprehensive reviewed. The key words include chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis B virus cure, covalently closed circular DNA, direct acting anti-virals and host targeting agents. RESULTS Several novel agents through viral and host targets approaches are under investigations towards functional cure of HBV. On the one hand, direct acting anti-virals targeting virus itself, such as HBV new polymerase inhibitor, entry inhibitor, engineered site-specific nucleases and RNA interference, could inhibit amplification of cccDNA as well as intrahepatic HBV infection and eliminate or silence cccDNA transcription. Inhibitors of HBV nucleocapsid assembly suppress capsid formation and prevent synthesis of HBV DNA. On the other hand, host targeting agents (HTA) include lymphotoxin-β receptor agonist, toll-like receptor agonist, immune checkpoint inhibitors and adenovirus-based therapeutic vaccine. Through enhancing innate and adaptive immune responses, these agents could induce noncytolytic destruction of cccDNA or attack HBV-infected hepatocytes. CONCLUSION With these promising approaches, we hope to reach global hepatitis B virus control in the middle of this century.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-L Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Renai branch, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychology, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - J-H Kao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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21
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Abstract
The liver is a central immunological organ with a high exposure to circulating antigens and endotoxins from the gut microbiota, particularly enriched for innate immune cells (macrophages, innate lymphoid cells, mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells). In homeostasis, many mechanisms ensure suppression of immune responses, resulting in tolerance. Tolerance is also relevant for chronic persistence of hepatotropic viruses or allograft acceptance after liver transplantation. The liver can rapidly activate immunity in response to infections or tissue damage. Depending on the underlying liver disease, such as viral hepatitis, cholestasis or NASH, different triggers mediate immune-cell activation. Conserved mechanisms such as molecular danger patterns (alarmins), Toll-like receptor signalling or inflammasome activation initiate inflammatory responses in the liver. The inflammatory activation of hepatic stellate and Kupffer cells results in the chemokine-mediated infiltration of neutrophils, monocytes, natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cells. The ultimate outcome of the intrahepatic immune response (for example, fibrosis or resolution) depends on the functional diversity of macrophages and dendritic cells, but also on the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory T-cell populations. As reviewed here, tremendous progress has helped to understand the fine-tuning of immune responses in the liver from homeostasis to disease, indicating promising targets for future therapies in acute and chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Heymann
- Department of Medicine III, RWTH University-Hospital Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Medicine III, RWTH University-Hospital Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, Aachen 52074, Germany
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22
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Lin CL, Yang HC, Kao JH. Hepatitis B virus: new therapeutic perspectives. Liver Int 2016; 36 Suppl 1:85-92. [PMID: 26725903 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Current antiviral therapies have dramatically improved the long-term outcomes of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Both interferon (IFN) and nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) treatments have been shown to reduce the progression of liver disease in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. However, persistent covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) can result in a viral relapse after discontinuation of antiviral treatment. On the basis of extensive research on the HBV lifecycle and virus-host interactions, several new agents focusing on viral and host targets are under development to cure HBV. New polymerase inhibitors, tenofovir alafenamide and besifovir provide effective and safer treatment for CHB patients. Agents targeting cccDNA, such as engineered site-specific nucleases and RNA interference therapeutics could eliminate cccDNA or silence cccDNA transcription. Inhibitors of HBV nucleocapsid assembly suppress capsid formation and prevent synthesis of HBV DNA. The HBV entry inhibitor, Myrcludex-B, has been shown to effectively inhibit amplification of cccDNA as well as the spread of intrahepatic infection. Agents targeting host factors that enhance innate and adaptive immune responses, including the lymphotoxin-β receptor agonist, toll-like receptor agonist, immune checkpoint inhibitors and adenovirus-based therapeutic vaccine, could play a critical role in the elimination of HBV-infected cells. With all of these promising approaches, we hope to reach the ultimate goal of a cure to HBV in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Lin Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ren-Ai branch, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychology, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Chih Yang
- Department of Microbiology, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University, College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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23
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Tamaki I, Kaido T, Yagi S, Ueda Y, Hatano E, Okajima H, Uemoto S. Spontaneous clearance of hepatitis C virus after liver transplantation: a report of four cases. Surg Case Rep 2015; 1:124. [PMID: 26943448 PMCID: PMC4690824 DOI: 10.1186/s40792-015-0127-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
End-stage liver disease associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the leading indication for liver transplantation. Hepatitis C virus infection recurrence in the graft is common under immunosuppression, leading to an accelerated rate of graft failure. We report the clinical features of four of our patients: three patients presenting with spontaneous hepatitis C virus clearance after liver transplantation and one presenting with transient disappearance of hepatitis C virus postoperatively. The transitional period from surgery to hepatitis C virus clearance was <5 months for all patients. The immunosuppression therapy included tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and corticosteroids. One ABO-incompatible patient presented spontaneous viral clearance postoperatively for the last 5 years. Two patients had episodes of severe bacterial infection, which resulted in a temporary reduction of immunosuppression. Two patients presented with a transient elevation of transaminase preceding spontaneous hepatitis C virus clearance. These clinical findings suggested that factors including surgical stress, severe bacterial infection, and temporary interruption of immunosuppression were correlated with the reactivation of nonspecific immune responses in the hosts, resulting in spontaneous hepatitis C virus clearance postoperatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ichiro Tamaki
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Kawara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Toshimi Kaido
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Kawara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Shintaro Yagi
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Kawara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Yoshihide Ueda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto University, 54 Kawara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Etsuro Hatano
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Kawara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Hideaki Okajima
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Kawara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Shinji Uemoto
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Kawara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
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24
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Lin CL, Kao JH. Perspectives and control of hepatitis B virus infection in Taiwan. J Formos Med Assoc 2015; 114:901-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2015.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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