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Sallam M, Khalil R. Contemporary Insights into Hepatitis C Virus: A Comprehensive Review. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1035. [PMID: 38930417 PMCID: PMC11205832 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061035] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a significant global health challenge. Approximately 50 million people were living with chronic hepatitis C based on the World Health Organization as of 2024, contributing extensively to global morbidity and mortality. The advent and approval of several direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens significantly improved HCV treatment, offering potentially high rates of cure for chronic hepatitis C. However, the promising aim of eventual HCV eradication remains challenging. Key challenges include the variability in DAA access across different regions, slightly variable response rates to DAAs across diverse patient populations and HCV genotypes/subtypes, and the emergence of resistance-associated substitutions (RASs), potentially conferring resistance to DAAs. Therefore, periodic reassessment of current HCV knowledge is needed. An up-to-date review on HCV is also necessitated based on the observed shifts in HCV epidemiological trends, continuous development and approval of therapeutic strategies, and changes in public health policies. Thus, the current comprehensive review aimed to integrate the latest knowledge on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, treatment options and preventive strategies for HCV, with a particular focus on the current challenges associated with RASs and ongoing efforts in vaccine development. This review sought to provide healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers with the necessary insights to address the HCV burden more effectively. We aimed to highlight the progress made in managing and preventing HCV infection and to highlight the persistent barriers challenging the prevention of HCV infection. The overarching goal was to align with global health objectives towards reducing the burden of chronic hepatitis, aiming for its eventual elimination as a public health threat by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Roaa Khalil
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
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2
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Murray M. Mechanisms and Clinical Significance of Pharmacokinetic Drug Interactions Mediated by FDA and EMA-approved Hepatitis C Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents. Clin Pharmacokinet 2023; 62:1365-1392. [PMID: 37731164 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-023-01302-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of patients infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been revolutionised by the development of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) that target specific HCV proteins involved in viral replication. The first DAAs were associated with clinical problems such as adverse drug reactions and pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions (DDIs). Current FDA/EMA-approved treatments are combinations of DAAs that simultaneously target the HCV N5A-protein, the HCV N5B-polymerase and the HCV NS3/4A-protease. Adverse events and DDIs are less likely with these DAA combinations but several DDIs of potential clinical significance remain. Much of the available information on the interaction of DAAs with CYP drug-metabolising enzymes and influx and efflux transporters is contained in regulatory summaries and is focused on DDIs of likely clinical importance. Important DDIs perpetrated by current DAAs include increases in the pharmacokinetic exposure to statins and dabigatran. Some mechanistic information can be deduced. Although the free concentrations of DAAs in serum are very low, a number of these DDIs are likely mediated by the inhibition of systemic influx transporters, especially OATP1B1/1B3. Other DDIs may arise by DAA-mediated inhibition of intestinal efflux transporters, which increases the systemic concentrations of some coadministered drugs. Conversely, DAAs are victims of DDIs mediated by cyclosporin, ketoconazole, omeprazole and HIV antiretroviral drug combinations, especially when boosted by ritonavir and, to a lesser extent, cobicistat. In addition, concurrent administration of inducers, such as rifampicin, carbamazepine and efavirenz, decreases exposure to some DAAs. Drug-drug interactions that increase the accumulation of HCV N3/4A-protease inhibitors like grazoprevir may exacerbate hepatic injury in HCV patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Murray
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia.
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3
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Campbell O, Monje-Galvan V. Lipid composition modulates interactions of p7 viroporin during membrane insertion. J Struct Biol 2023; 215:108013. [PMID: 37586469 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2023.108013] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Viral proteins interact with lipid membranes during various stages in the viral life cycle to propagate infection. p7 is an ion channel forming protein of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) that participates in viral assembly. Studies show that it has close ties to lipid metabolism in the cell and anionic phosphatidylserine (PS) lipids are suggested to be key for its permeabilizing function, but the mechanism of its interaction with the lipid environment is largely unknown. To begin unraveling the molecular processes of the protein, we evaluated the impact of lipid environment on the binding and insertion mechanism of p7 prior to channel formation and viral assembly using molecular dynamics simulations. It is seen that p7 is sensitive to its lipid environment and results in different remodeling patterns in membranes. Helix 1 (H1) is especially important for peptide insertion, with deeper entry taking place when the membrane contains phosphatidylserine (PS). Helix 2 (H2) and the adjacent loop connecting to Helix 3 (H3) prompts recruitment of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) lipids to the protein binding site in membrane models with lower surface charge. This work provides perspectives on the interplay between protein-lipid dynamics and membrane composition, and insights on membrane reorganization in mechanisms of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatoyin Campbell
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Viviana Monje-Galvan
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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4
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Bernal LA, Soti V. Hepatitis C Virus: Insights Into Its History, Treatment, Challenges, and Future Directions. Cureus 2023; 15:e43924. [PMID: 37614826 PMCID: PMC10443603 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a global public health concern with significant impacts. It primarily spreads through blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing needles among drug users. Given the wide prevalence of risk factors, HCV continues to pose a major threat. Hence, it is crucial to understand its characteristics, structure, and genotypes to prevent, treat, and potentially eradicate it. This narrative review aims to explore the history of HCV treatment, highlight the breakthroughs achieved with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy, address potential barriers to HCV eradication, and discuss future treatment possibilities. For this article, relevant studies were identified using various databases, including PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Journal Storage. The literature search revealed that after identifying HCV and studying its characteristics, interferon alfa and ribavirin became primary treatment options. However, due to their limited coverage against different HCV genotypes, ethnic variations, and suboptimal sustained virological response, the development of DAAs became essential. Combining various DAAs, such as sofosbuvir and velpatasvir, for a duration of 12 weeks has become the standard HCV treatment, with effectiveness against most genotypes. Additionally, ongoing clinical trials have shown promising results for other drugs such as CDI31244/sofosbuvir/velpatasvir, sofosbuvir/coblopasvir, and daclatasvir/asunaprevir. Despite the success of DAAs and ongoing efforts to discover more effective treatments, the high costs of DAAs pose a significant challenge to eradicating HCV, as not all patients can afford these expensive therapies. Furthermore, the ability of HCV to mutate limits the potential for vaccine development. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on developing more cost-effective strategies to control the spread of HCV and create novel, highly effective, and affordable DAAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Bernal
- Internal Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Elmira, USA
| | - Varun Soti
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Elmira, USA
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5
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Fogel RS, Chappell CA. Hepatitis C Virus in Pregnancy: An Opportunity to Test and Treat. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2023; 50:363-373. [PMID: 37149316 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2023.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of safe and well-tolerated direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications for hepatitis C virus (HCV), disease eradication is on the horizon. However, as the rate of HCV infection among women of childbearing potential continues to rise due to the ongoing opioid epidemic in the United States, perinatal transmission of HCV presents an increasingly difficult barrier. Without the ability to treat HCV during pregnancy, complete eradication is unlikely. In this review, we discuss the current epidemiology of HCV in the United States, the current management strategy for HCV in pregnancy, as well as the potential for future use of DAAs in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Fogel
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3550 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Catherine A Chappell
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Hospital, 300 Halket Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Mechanisms and Consequences of Genetic Variation in Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2023; 439:237-264. [PMID: 36592248 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-15640-3_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an important contributor to the global incidence of liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although common for single-stranded RNA viruses, HCV displays a remarkable high level of genetic diversity, produced primarily by the error-prone viral polymerase and host immune pressure. The high genetic heterogeneity of HCV has led to the evolution of several distinct genotypes and subtypes, with important consequences for pathogenesis, and clinical outcomes. Genetic variability constitutes an evasion mechanism against immune suppression, allowing the virus to evolve epitope escape mutants that avoid immune recognition. Thus, heterogeneity and variability of the HCV genome represent a great hindrance for the development of vaccines against HCV. In addition, the high genetic plasticity of HCV allows the virus to rapidly develop antiviral resistance mutations, leading to treatment failure and potentially representing a major hindrance for the cure of chronic HCV patients. In this chapter, we will present the central role that genetic diversity has in the viral life cycle and epidemiology of HCV. Incorporation errors and recombination, both the result of HCV polymerase activity, represent the main mechanisms of HCV evolution. The molecular details of both mechanisms have been only partially clarified and will be presented in the following sections. Finally, we will discuss the major consequences of HCV genetic diversity, namely its capacity to rapidly evolve antiviral and immunological escape variants that represent an important limitation for clearance of acute HCV, for treatment of chronic hepatitis C and for broadly protective vaccines.
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Dwivedi M, Dwivedi A, Mukherjee D. An Insight into Hepatitis C Virus: In Search of Promising Drug Targets. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:1127-1138. [PMID: 37907492 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501265769231020031857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a global health concern, chronically infecting over 70 million people worldwide. HCV is a bloodborne pathogen that primarily affects the liver, and chronic HCV infection can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure over time. There is an urgent need for more effective approaches to prevent and treat HCV. This review summarizes current knowledge on the virology, transmission, diagnosis, and management of HCV infection. It also provides an in-depth analysis of HCV proteins as promising targets for antiviral drug and vaccine development. Specific HCV proteins discussed as potential drug targets include the NS5B polymerase, NS3/4A protease, entry receptors like CD81, and core proteins. The implications of HCV proteins as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers are also explored. Current direct-acting antiviral therapies are effective but have cost, genotype specificity, and resistance limitations. This review aims to synthesize essential information on HCV biology and pathogenesis to inform future research on improved preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies against this global infectious disease threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Dwivedi
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Gomtinagar Extension, Lucknow- 226028, India
| | - Aditya Dwivedi
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Gomtinagar Extension, Lucknow- 226028, India
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An Update on the Metabolic Landscape of Oncogenic Viruses. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235742. [PMID: 36497226 PMCID: PMC9738352 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses play an important role in cancer development as about 12% of cancer types are linked to viral infections. Viruses that induce cellular transformation are known as oncoviruses. Although the mechanisms of viral oncogenesis differ between viruses, all oncogenic viruses share the ability to establish persistent chronic infections with no obvious symptoms for years. During these prolonged infections, oncogenic viruses manipulate cell signaling pathways that control cell cycle progression, apoptosis, inflammation, and metabolism. Importantly, it seems that most oncoviruses depend on these changes for their persistence and amplification. Metabolic changes induced by oncoviruses share many common features with cancer metabolism. Indeed, viruses, like proliferating cancer cells, require increased biosynthetic precursors for virion production, need to balance cellular redox homeostasis, and need to ensure host cell survival in a given tissue microenvironment. Thus, like for cancer cells, viral replication and persistence of infected cells frequently depend on metabolic changes. Here, we draw parallels between metabolic changes observed in cancers or induced by oncoviruses, with a focus on pathways involved in the regulation of glucose, lipid, and amino acids. We describe whether and how oncoviruses depend on metabolic changes, with the perspective of targeting them for antiviral and onco-therapeutic approaches in the context of viral infections.
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Behmard E, Abdulabbas HT, Abdalkareem Jasim S, Najafipour S, Ghasemian A, Farjadfar A, Barzegari E, Kouhpayeh A, Abdolmaleki P. Design of a novel multi-epitope vaccine candidate against hepatitis C virus using structural and nonstructural proteins: An immunoinformatics approach. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272582. [PMID: 36040967 PMCID: PMC9426923 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects the liver and causes chronic infection. Several mutations in the viral genome have been associated with drug resistance development. Currently, there is no approved vaccine against the HCV. The employment of computational biology is the primary and crucial step for vaccine design or antiviral therapy which can substantially reduce the duration and cost of studies. Therefore, in this study, we designed a multi-epitope vaccine using various immunoinformatics tools to elicit the efficient human immune responses against the HCV. Initially, various potential (antigenic, immunogenic, non-toxic and non-allergenic) epitope segments were extracted from viral structural and non-structural protein sequences using multiple screening methods. The selected epitopes were linked to each other properly. Then, toll-like receptors (TLRs) 3 and 4 agonists (50S ribosomal protein L7/L12 and human β-defensin 2, respectively) were added to the N-terminus of the final vaccine sequence to increase its immunogenicity. The 3D structure of the vaccine was modeled. Molecular dynamics simulations studies verified the high stability of final free vaccines and in complex with TLR3 and TLR4. These constructs were also antigenic, non-allergenic, nontoxic and immunogenic. Although the designed vaccine traits were promising as a potential candidate against the HCV infection, experimental studies and clinical trials are required to verify the protective traits and safety of the designed vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmaeil Behmard
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Hussein T. Abdulabbas
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Faculty of Health and Medical Techniques, Imam Ja’afar Al-Sadiq University, Al Muthanna, Iraq
| | | | - Sohrab Najafipour
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Abdolmajid Ghasemian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
- * E-mail: (PA); (AK); (AG)
| | - Akbar Farjadfar
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Barzegari
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Amin Kouhpayeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
- * E-mail: (PA); (AK); (AG)
| | - Parviz Abdolmaleki
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail: (PA); (AK); (AG)
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Comparing RT-qPCR and Hepatitis C Virus Antigen Detection Assay for Detecting Active Infection in Blood Donors in Fars Province, Iran. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon-123438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Background: Immunoassay is still used to detect hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies in donated blood in many developing countries. However, an immunoblotting confirmation test is needed to confirm positive results. Objectives: We compared the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of nucleic acid testing and HCV core antigen (HCVcAg) detection in the serum samples of blood donors with HCV antibodies to determine active infection. Methods: Overall, 90 serum samples from blood donors referred to Fars Blood Transfusion Organization, Iran during March 2017-March 2019 and initially tested for HCV antibodies were included in the study. Enzyme immunoassays were used to detect the HCV antigen and anti-HCV antibody. A commercial reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) kit was used to quantify HCV RNA. The HCV genotypes were also determined by DNA sequencing. In order to compare the HCVcAg detection method with the RT-qPCR reference method, sensitivity, specificity, performance, PPV, and NPV were calculated. Results: Out of 90 serum samples, 73 were positive for anti-HCV antibody, and 17 sera were negative. The HCV RNA was detected in 60 (82%) of anti-HCV antibody-positive samples, whereas the HCVcAg test detected HCV antigen in 54 (74%) of the samples, indicating a significant correlation between the two assays (r = 0.86). The overall sensitivity and specificity for HCVcAg detection method were 93.85% [95% confidence interval (CI): 84.99 - 98.3%] and 100% (95% CI: 94.64 - 100%), respectively. Based on the statistical analysis, the accuracy of the antigen detection test was 94.83% (95% CI: 87.26 - 98.58%). Moreover, the agreement between HCV RNA detection using RT-qPCR and HCVcAg detection was 97.78% (kappa value: 0.94). Conclusions: The sensitivity and specificity of HCVcAg detection in blood donors were ideal compared to the RT-qPCR reference method. However, the method should be tested on more HCV antibody-positive and -negative samples. Furthermore, our study revealed a significant association between the number of RT-qPCR-positive cases and the cases diagnosed by the HCVcAg detection method for screening and detecting active HCV infection in blood donors.
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Redwan EM, Aljadawi AA, Uversky VN. Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Intrinsic Disorder in the Signaling Pathways Induced by Toll-Like Receptors. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:1091. [PMID: 36101469 PMCID: PMC9312352 DOI: 10.3390/biology11071091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we examined the interplay between protein intrinsic disorder, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, and signaling pathways induced by Toll-like receptors (TLRs). To this end, 10 HCV proteins, 10 human TLRs, and 41 proteins from the TLR-induced downstream pathways were considered from the prevalence of intrinsic disorder. Mapping of the intrinsic disorder to the HCV-TLR interactome and to the TLR-based pathways of human innate immune response to the HCV infection demonstrates that substantial levels of intrinsic disorder are characteristic for proteins involved in the regulation and execution of these innate immunity pathways and in HCV-TLR interaction. Disordered regions, being commonly enriched in sites of various posttranslational modifications, may play important functional roles by promoting protein-protein interactions and support the binding of the analyzed proteins to other partners such as nucleic acids. It seems that this system represents an important illustration of the role of intrinsic disorder in virus-host warfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elrashdy M. Redwan
- Biological Science Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (E.M.R.); (A.A.A.)
- Therapeutic and Protective Proteins Laboratory, Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City for Scientific Research and Technology Applications, New Borg EL-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt
| | - Abdullah A. Aljadawi
- Biological Science Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (E.M.R.); (A.A.A.)
| | - Vladimir N. Uversky
- Biological Science Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (E.M.R.); (A.A.A.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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Manzoor S, Khalid M, Idrees M. P2X4 receptors mediate induction of antioxidants, fibrogenic cytokines and ECM transcripts; in presence of replicating HCV in in vitro setting: An insight into role of P2X4 in fibrosis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0259727. [PMID: 35594248 PMCID: PMC9122194 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & aims
Major HCV infections lead to chronic hepatitis, which results in progressive liver disease including fibrosis, cirrhosis and eventually hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). P2X4 and P2X7 are most widely distributed receptors on hepatocytes.
Methods
Full length P2X4 (1.7kb) (Rattus norvegicus) was sub cloned in mammalian expression vector pcDNA3.1+. Two stable cell lines 293T/P2X4 (experimental) and 293T/ NV or null vector (control) were established. Both cell lines were inoculated with high viral titers human HCV sera and control human sera. Successfully infected cells harvested on day 5 and day 9 of post infection were used for further studies.
Results
The results revealed a significant increase in gene expression of P2X4 on day 5 and day 9 Post -infection in cells infected with HCV sera compared with cells inoculated with control sera. Quantitative real time PCR analysis revealed that HO-1 was significantly upregulated in presence of P2X4 in HCV infected cells (P2X4/HCV) when compared with control NV/HCV cells. A significant decrease was observed in expression of Cu/ZnSOD in presence of P2X4 in HCV infected cells compared to control NV/HCV cells. However, expression of both antioxidants was observed unaltered in cells harvested on day 9 post infection. Gene expression of angiotensin II significantly increased in HCV infected cells in presence of P2X4 on day 5 and day 9 of post infection when compared with control NV/HCV cells. A significant increase in gene expression of TNF-α and TGF-β was observed in HCV infected cells in presence of P2X4 on day 9 post infection in comparison with control (NV/HCV cells). However, gene expression of adipokine leptin was not affected in both experimental (P2X4/HCV) and control (NV/HCV) groups on day 5 and day 9 of post infection. Extracellular matrix proteins, laminin and elastin genes expression also significantly increased in presence of P2X4 (HCV/P2X4) on day 9 of post-infection compared to control group NV/HCV cells.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these findings constitute the evidence that P2X4 receptors in the presence of HCV play a significant role in the regulation of key antioxidant enzymes (HO-1, Cu/ZnSOD), in the induction of proinflammatory. cytokine (TNF-α), profibrotic cytokine (TGF-β) vasoactive cytokine (angiotensin II). P2X4 also increases the expression of extracellular matrix proteins (laminin and elastin) in the presence of HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sobia Manzoor
- Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Madiha Khalid
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Idrees
- Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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The utility of
HCV
core antigen for evaluation of viremia at 48 weeks post‐treatment with direct‐acting antivirals. ADVANCES IN DIGESTIVE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/aid2.13316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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14
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Yu Y, Wan Z, Wang JH, Yang X, Zhang C. Review of human pegivirus: Prevalence, transmission, pathogenesis, and clinical implication. Virulence 2022; 13:324-341. [PMID: 35132924 PMCID: PMC8837232 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2029328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pegivirus (HPgV-1), previously known as GB virus C (GBV-C) or hepatitis G virus (HGV), is a single-stranded positive RNA virus belonging to the genus Pegivirus of the Flaviviridae family. It is transmitted by percutaneous injuries (PIs), contaminated blood and/or blood products, sexual contact, and vertical mother-to-child transmission. It is widely prevalent in general population, especially in high-risk groups. HPgV-1 viremia is typically cleared within the first 1–2 years of infection in most healthy individuals, but may persist for longer periods of time in immunocompromised individuals and/or those co-infected by other viruses. A large body of evidences indicate that HPgV-1 persistent infection has a beneficial clinical effect on many infectious diseases, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and hepatitis C. The beneficial effects seem to be related to a significant reduction of immune activation, and/or the inhabitation of co-infected viruses (e.g. HIV-1). HPgV-1 has a broad cellular tropism for lymphoid and myeloid cells, and preferentially replicates in bone marrow and spleen without cytopathic effect, implying a therapeutic potential. The paper aims to summarize the natural history, prevalence and distribution characteristics, and pathogenesis of HPgV-1, and discuss its association with other human viral diseases, and potential use in therapy as a biovaccine or viral vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqi Yu
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China.,Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenzhou Wan
- Medical Laboratory of Taizhou Fourth People's Hospital, Taizhou, China
| | - Jian-Hua Wang
- Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianguang Yang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Chiyu Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Naqvi AAT, Anjum F, Shafie A, Badar S, Elasbali AM, Yadav DK, Hassan MI. Investigating host-virus interaction mechanism and phylogenetic analysis of viral proteins involved in the pathogenesis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261497. [PMID: 34914801 PMCID: PMC8675761 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the emergence of yellow fever in the Americas and the devastating 1918 influenza pandemic, biologists and clinicians have been drawn to human infecting viruses to understand their mechanisms of infection better and develop effective therapeutics against them. However, the complex molecular and cellular processes that these viruses use to infect and multiply in human cells have been a source of great concern for the scientific community since the discovery of the first human infecting virus. Viral disease outbreaks, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic caused by a novel coronavirus, have claimed millions of lives and caused significant economic damage worldwide. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of host-virus interaction and the molecular machinery involved in the pathogenesis of some common human viruses. We also performed a phylogenetic analysis of viral proteins involved in host-virus interaction to understand the changes in the sequence organization of these proteins during evolution for various strains of viruses to gain insights into the viral origin's evolutionary perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farah Anjum
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa Shafie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sufian Badar
- Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Abdelbaset Mohamed Elasbali
- Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences-Qurayyat, Jouf University, Sakakah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Yadav
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Hambakmoeiro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon City, South Korea
| | - Md. Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, India
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16
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Li J, Boix E. Host Defence RNases as Antiviral Agents against Enveloped Single Stranded RNA Viruses. Virulence 2021; 12:444-469. [PMID: 33660566 PMCID: PMC7939569 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1871823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Owing to the recent outbreak of Coronavirus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19), it is urgent to develop effective and safe drugs to treat the present pandemic and prevent other viral infections that might come in the future. Proteins from our own innate immune system can serve as ideal sources of novel drug candidates thanks to their safety and immune regulation versatility. Some host defense RNases equipped with antiviral activity have been reported over time. Here, we try to summarize the currently available information on human RNases that can target viral pathogens, with special focus on enveloped single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) viruses. Overall, host RNases can fight viruses by a combined multifaceted strategy, including the enzymatic target of the viral genome, recognition of virus unique patterns, immune modulation, control of stress granule formation, and induction of autophagy/apoptosis pathways. The review also includes a detailed description of representative enveloped ssRNA viruses and their strategies to interact with the host and evade immune recognition. For comparative purposes, we also provide an exhaustive revision of the currently approved or experimental antiviral drugs. Finally, we sum up the current perspectives of drug development to achieve successful eradication of viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Li
- Dpt. Of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ester Boix
- Dpt. Of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Algal and Cyanobacterial Lectins and Their Antimicrobial Properties. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:md19120687. [PMID: 34940686 PMCID: PMC8707200 DOI: 10.3390/md19120687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Lectins are proteins with a remarkably high affinity and specificity for carbohydrates. Many organisms naturally produce them, including animals, plants, fungi, protists, bacteria, archaea, and viruses. The present report focuses on lectins produced by marine or freshwater organisms, in particular algae and cyanobacteria. We explore their structure, function, classification, and antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, we look at the expression of lectins in heterologous systems and the current research on the preclinical and clinical evaluation of these fascinating molecules. The further development of these molecules might positively impact human health, particularly the prevention or treatment of diseases caused by pathogens such as human immunodeficiency virus, influenza, and severe acute respiratory coronaviruses, among others.
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18
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Baesi K, Velayati AA, Ashtiani MF, Fakhredini K, Banifazl M, Larijani MS, Basimi P, Ramezani A. Prevalence of Naturally Occurring Resistance Associated Substitutions in NS3/4A Protease Inhibitors in Iranian HCV/HIV Infected Patients. Curr HIV Res 2021; 19:391-397. [PMID: 34238162 DOI: 10.2174/1566523221666210707142838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) acts in host as a complicated mixture of related variants with the potency to genetically escape host immune responses. Direct acting antivirals (DAAs) have been approved for HCV treatment with shorter duration, better cure rates and lower side effects. However, naturally occurring resistance associated substitutions(RASs) make some obstacles to this antiviral therapy success. OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed at determination of the naturally occurring NS3/4A RASs in HCV/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)infected patients. METHODS A total of 120 DAA-naïve HCV-HIV co-infected patients were included. HCV NS3/4Agenome region was amplified with PCR and mutation analysis was performed by Sanger sequencing technique. The amino acid sequence diversity of the region wasanalyzed using geno2pheno HCV. RESULTS Phylogenetic analysis showed that 73 cases were infected by 3a and 47 subjects by subtype1a. The overall RASs among studied subjects wereobserved in 6 (5%) individuals from 120 studied cases who were infected with HCV 1a. V36M/L,Q80L,S122G/L,R155T/G,A156S,D168Y/N and S174A/N/T mutations were detected in this study. CONCLUSION Although the prevalence of RASs was totally low in this study, the presence of several cases of double and triple mutants among this population suggests prior evaluation of protease inhibitors related mutations before initiation of standard treatment and also investigation on a large population could be of high value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazem Baesi
- Hepatitis & AIDS Dept., Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Velayati
- Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Kamal Fakhredini
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Banifazl
- Iranian Society for Support of Patients with Infectious Disease, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Parya Basimi
- Hepatitis & AIDS Dept., Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amitis Ramezani
- Clinical Research Dept., Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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19
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The E rns Carboxyterminus: Much More Than a Membrane Anchor. Viruses 2021; 13:v13071203. [PMID: 34201636 PMCID: PMC8310223 DOI: 10.3390/v13071203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pestiviruses express the unique essential envelope protein Erns, which exhibits RNase activity, is attached to membranes by a long amphipathic helix, and is partially secreted from infected cells. The RNase activity of Erns is directly connected with pestivirus virulence. Formation of homodimers and secretion of the protein are hypothesized to be important for its role as a virulence factor, which impairs the host's innate immune response to pestivirus infection. The unusual membrane anchor of Erns raises questions with regard to proteolytic processing of the viral polyprotein at the Erns carboxy-terminus. Moreover, the membrane anchor is crucial for establishing the critical equilibrium between retention and secretion and ensures intracellular accumulation of the protein at the site of virus budding so that it is available to serve both as structural component of the virion and factor controlling host immune reactions. In the present manuscript, we summarize published as well as new data on the molecular features of Erns including aspects of its interplay with the other two envelope proteins with a special focus on the biochemistry of the Erns membrane anchor.
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20
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Tarannum H, Chauhan B, Samadder A, Roy H, Nandi S. To Explore the Potential Targets and Current Structure-based Design Strategies Utilizing Co-crystallized Ligand to Combat HCV. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 22:590-604. [PMID: 32720601 DOI: 10.2174/1389450121999200727215020] [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: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) belongs to the Hepacivirus family. HCV has been designated as a very dreadful virus as it can attack the liver, causing inflammation and even may lead to cancer in chronic conditions. It was estimated that 71 million people around the world have chronic HCV infection. World Health Organization (WHO) reported that about 399000 people died because of chronic cirrhosis and liver cancer globally. In spite of the abundance of availability of drugs for the treatment of HCV, however, the issue of drug resistance surpasses all the possibilities of therapeutic management of HCV. Therefore, to address this issue of 'drug-resistance', various HCV targets were explored to quest the evaluation of the mechanism of the disease progression. METHODS An attempt has been made in the present study to explore the various targets of HCV involved in the mechanism(s) of the disease initiation and progression and to focus on the mode of binding of ligands, which are co-crystallized at the active cavity of different HCV targets. CONCLUSION The present study could predict some crucial features of these ligands, which possibly interacted with various amino acid residues responsible for their biological activity and molecular signaling pathway(s). Such binding mode may be considered as a template for the high throughput screening and designing of active congeneric ligands to combat HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heena Tarannum
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Global Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Affiliated to Uttarakhand Technical University), Kashipur-244713, India
| | - Bhumika Chauhan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Global Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Affiliated to Uttarakhand Technical University), Kashipur-244713, India
| | - Asmita Samadder
- Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Lab., Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, 741235, India
| | - Harekrishna Roy
- Nirmala College of Pharmacy, Mangalagiri, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, 522503, India
| | - Sisir Nandi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Global Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Affiliated to Uttarakhand Technical University), Kashipur-244713, India
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21
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Mikolasevic I, Kanizaj TF, Bozic D, Puz P, Shapeski SS, Puljiz Z, Radic-Kristo D, Lalovac M, Mijic M, Delija B, Juric T, Bogadi I, Virovic-Jukic L. Metabolism of Direct-acting Antiviral Agents (DAAs) in Hepatitis C Therapy: A Review of the Literature. Curr Drug Metab 2021; 22:89-98. [PMID: 33319667 DOI: 10.2174/1389200221999201214224126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is still one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease, with chronically infected making up approximately 1% of the global population. Of those infected, 70% (55-85%) will develop chronic HCV infection. Chronic HCV infection causes substantial morbidity and mortality, with complications including cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma, and eventually death. OBJECTIVE Therapeutic options for chronic HCV infection have evolved dramatically since 2014, with a translation from pegylated interferon and ribavirin (associated with suboptimal cure and high treatment-related toxicity) to oral direct-acting antiviral treatment. There are four classes of direct-acting antivirals which differ by their mechanism of action and therapeutic target. They are all pointed to proteins that form the cytoplasmic viral replication complex. Multiple studies have demonstrated that direct-acting antiviral therapy is extremely well tolerated, highly efficacious, with few side effects. METHODS We performed an indexed MEDLINE search with keywords regarding specific direct-acting antiviral regimes and their pharmacokinetics, drug-drug interactions, and metabolism in specific settings of pregnancy, lactation, liver cirrhosis, liver transplantation and HCC risk, kidney failure and kidney transplantation. RESULTS We present a comprehensive overview of specific direct-acting antiviral metabolism and drug-drug interaction issues in different settings. CONCLUSION Despite its complex pharmacokinetics and the possibility of drug-drug interactions, direct-acting antivirals are highly efficacious in providing viral clearance, which is an obvious advantage compared to possible interactions or side effects. They should be administered cautiously in patients with other comorbidities, and with tight control of immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Mikolasevic
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tajana F Kanizaj
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dorotea Bozic
- Department for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Center, Split, Croatia
| | - Petra Puz
- Division of Internal Medicine, General Hospital Koprivnica, Croatia
| | | | - Zeljko Puljiz
- Department for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Center, Split, Croatia
| | | | - Milos Lalovac
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Mijic
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bozena Delija
- School of Medicine, University Center Hospital Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Toni Juric
- School of Medicine, University Center Hospital Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Ivan Bogadi
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
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22
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Velázquez-Moctezuma R, Augestad EH, Castelli M, Holmboe Olesen C, Clementi N, Clementi M, Mancini N, Prentoe J. Mechanisms of Hepatitis C Virus Escape from Vaccine-Relevant Neutralizing Antibodies. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:291. [PMID: 33804732 PMCID: PMC8004074 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9030291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major causative agent of acute and chronic hepatitis. It is estimated that 400,000 people die every year from chronic HCV infection, mostly from severe liver-related diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Although HCV was discovered more than 30 years ago, an efficient prophylactic vaccine is still missing. The HCV glycoprotein complex, E1/E2, is the principal target of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) and, thus, is an attractive antigen for B-cell vaccine design. However, the high genetic variability of the virus necessitates the identification of conserved epitopes. Moreover, the high intrinsic mutational capacity of HCV allows the virus to continually escape broadly NAbs (bNAbs), which is likely to cause issues with vaccine-resistant variants. Several studies have assessed the barrier-to-resistance of vaccine-relevant bNAbs in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, recent studies have suggested that escape substitutions can confer antibody resistance not only by direct modification of the epitope but indirectly through allosteric effects, which can be grouped based on the breadth of these effects on antibody susceptibility. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of HCV-specific NAbs, with a special focus on vaccine-relevant bNAbs and their targets. We highlight antibody escape studies pointing out the different methodologies and the escape mutations identified thus far. Finally, we analyze the antibody escape mechanisms of envelope protein escape substitutions and polymorphisms according to the most recent evidence in the HCV field. The accumulated knowledge in identifying bNAb epitopes as well as assessing barriers to resistance and elucidating relevant escape mechanisms may prove critical in the successful development of an HCV B-cell vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Velázquez-Moctezuma
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (R.V.-M.); (E.H.A.); (C.H.O.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Elias H. Augestad
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (R.V.-M.); (E.H.A.); (C.H.O.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Matteo Castelli
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Università “Vita-Salute” San Raffaele, 20132 Milano, Italy; (M.C.); (N.C.); (M.C.); (N.M.)
| | - Christina Holmboe Olesen
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (R.V.-M.); (E.H.A.); (C.H.O.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Nicola Clementi
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Università “Vita-Salute” San Raffaele, 20132 Milano, Italy; (M.C.); (N.C.); (M.C.); (N.M.)
| | - Massimo Clementi
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Università “Vita-Salute” San Raffaele, 20132 Milano, Italy; (M.C.); (N.C.); (M.C.); (N.M.)
| | - Nicasio Mancini
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Università “Vita-Salute” San Raffaele, 20132 Milano, Italy; (M.C.); (N.C.); (M.C.); (N.M.)
| | - Jannick Prentoe
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (R.V.-M.); (E.H.A.); (C.H.O.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
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23
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Breitinger U, Farag NS, Ali NKM, Ahmed M, El-Azizi MA, Breitinger HG. Cell viability assay as a tool to study activity and inhibition of hepatitis C p7 channels. J Gen Virol 2021; 102. [PMID: 33709903 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The p7 viroporin of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) forms an intracellular proton-conducting transmembrane channel in virus-infected cells, shunting the pH of intracellular compartments and thus helping virus assembly and release. This activity is essential for virus infectivity, making viroporins an attractive target for drug development. The protein sequence and drug sensitivity of p7 vary between the seven major genotypes of the hepatitis C virus, but the essential channel activity is preserved. Here, we investigated the effect of several inhibitors on recombinant HCV p7 channels corresponding to genotypes 1a-b, 2a-b, 3a and 4a using patch-clamp electrophysiology and cell-based assays. We established a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT)-based cell viability assay for recombinant p7 expressed in HEK293 cells to assess channel activity and its sensitivity to inhibitors. The results from the cell viability assay were consistent with control measurements using established assays of haemadsorption and intracellular pH, and agreed with data from patch-clamp electrophysiology. Hexamethylene amiloride (HMA) was the most potent inhibitor of p7 activity, but possessed cytotoxic activity at higher concentrations. Rimantadine was active against p7 of all genotypes, while amantadine activity was genotype-dependent. The alkyl-chain iminosugars NB-DNJ, NN-DNJ and NN-DGJ were tested and their activity was found to be genotype-specific. In the current study, we introduce cell viability assays as a rapid and cost-efficient technique to assess viroporin activity and identify channel inhibitors as potential novel antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Breitinger
- Department of Biochemistry, German University in Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha S Farag
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nourhan K M Ali
- Department of Biochemistry, German University in Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Ahmed
- Present address: Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Hans-Knöll-Str. 2, D-07745, Jena, Germany.,Department of Biochemistry, German University in Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A El-Azizi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt
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24
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Chu JYK, Ou JHJ. Autophagy in HCV Replication and Protein Trafficking. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031089. [PMID: 33499186 PMCID: PMC7865906 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a catabolic process that is important for maintaining cellular homeostasis. It is also known to possess other functions including protein trafficking and anti-microbial activities. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is known to co-opt cellular autophagy pathway to promote its own replication. HCV regulates autophagy through multiple mechanisms to control intracellular protein and membrane trafficking to enhance its replication and suppress host innate immune response. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on the interplay between HCV and autophagy and the crosstalk between HCV-induced autophagy and host innate immune responses.
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25
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Kamp WM, Sellers CM, Stein S, Lim JK, Kim HS. Direct-Acting Antivirals Improve Overall Survival in Interventional Oncology Patients with Hepatitis C and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2020; 31:953-960. [PMID: 32376182 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2019.12.809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the impact of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and 12-week sustained virologic response (SVR12) in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated by interventional oncology (IO) therapies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed from 2005 to 2016 with HCC and receiving IO therapies. A total of 478 patients met inclusion criteria. Patients were age 29-90 years (mean 63.6 ± 9.4 years) and 78.9% (n =3 77) male. Two hundred and eighty-five (57%) patients had chronic HCV, 93 (33%) received DAAs, and 63 (68%) achieved SVR12. Liver function, tumor characteristics, and IO therapy including ablation, image-guided transcatheter tumor therapies (ITTT) (eg, chemoembolization and radioembolization), and combination locoregional therapy were assessed in analysis. RESULTS Median overall survival (OS) of the cohort was 26.7 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 21.9-29.9). OS for ablation, combination locoregional therapy and ITTT, was 37.3 (CI 30.7-49.9), 29.3 (CI 24.2-38.0), and 19.7 months (CI 16.5-22.8), respectively (P < .0001). OS in patients with HCV was 30.7 months (CI 24.2-35.2) versus 22.2 months in non-HCV patients (CI 17.8-27.8, P = .03). Patients with HCV who received DAA had higher survival, 49.2 months (CI 36.5-not reached) versus those not receiving DAA, 18.5 months (CI 14.1-25.3, P < .0001). OS was 71.8 months (CI 42.3-not reached) for patients who achieved SVR12 after DAA versus 26.7 months in the non-SVR12 group (CI 15.9-31.1, P < .0001). Multivariable analysis revealed independent factors for OS including IO treatment type, DAA use and achieving SVR12 (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS DAA use and SVR12 is associated with higher OS in patients with HCV-related HCC treated by IO therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- William M Kamp
- Section of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Cortlandt M Sellers
- Section of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Stacey Stein
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Joseph K Lim
- Section of Digestive Diseases and Yale Liver Center, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Hyun S Kim
- Section of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510; Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510; Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510.
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26
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Abouelasrar Salama S, Gouwy M, De Zutter A, Pörtner N, Vanbrabant L, Berghmans N, De Buck M, Struyf S, Van Damme J. Induction of Chemokines by Hepatitis C Virus Proteins: Synergy of the Core Protein with Interleukin-1β and Interferon-γ in Liver Bystander Cells. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2020; 40:195-206. [PMID: 32031878 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2019.0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection accounts for a large proportion of hepatic fibrosis and carcinoma cases observed worldwide. Mechanisms involved in HCV-induced hepatic injury have yet to be fully elucidated. Of particular interest is the capacity of HCV to regulate inflammatory responses. Here, we reveal modulation of cytokine activity by the HCV proteins non-structural protein 3 (NS3), glycoprotein E2, and core protein for their ability to induce chemokine expression in various liver bystander cells. Chemokines sustain chronic liver inflammation and relay multiple fibrogenic effects. CCL2, CCL3, CCL20, CXCL8, and CXCL10 were differentially expressed after treatment of monocytes, fibroblasts, or liver sinusoidal microvascular endothelial cells (LSECs) with HCV proteins. In comparison to NS3 and glycoprotein E2, core protein was a stronger inducer of chemokines in liver bystander cells. Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) synergized with core protein to induce CCL2, CCL20, CXCL8, or CXCL10 in fibroblasts or LSECs. These findings reveal new mechanisms of hepatic injury caused by HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Abouelasrar Salama
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mieke Gouwy
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alexandra De Zutter
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Noëmie Pörtner
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lotte Vanbrabant
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nele Berghmans
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mieke De Buck
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofie Struyf
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jo Van Damme
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Impact of Direct Acting Antivirals on Survival in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17081. [PMID: 31745132 PMCID: PMC6864088 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53051-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
With the increasing use of direct-acting antivirals (DAA) for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, we looked at the impact of DAA use and 12-week sustained viral response (SVR12) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and HCV. This is a retrospective analysis of 969 HCC patients diagnosed from 2005 to 2016 at an urban tertiary-care hospital. Kaplan-Meier curves and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess survival. Median overall survival of the cohort was 24.2 months. 470 patients had HCV (56%). 123 patients received DAA therapies for HCV (26.2%), 83 of whom achieved SVR12 (67.4%). HCV-positive and HCV-negative patients had similar survival, 20.7 months vs 17.4 months (p = 0.22). Patients receiving DAA therapy had an overall survival of 71.8 months vs 11.6 months for patients without (p < 0.0001). DAA patients who achieved SVR12 had an overall survival of 75.6 months vs. 26.7 months in the non SVR12 group (p < 0.0001). Multivariable analysis revealed AJCC, Child-Pugh Score, MELD, tumor size, tumor location, cancer treatment type, receiving DAA treatment and achieving SVR12 had independent influence on survival (p < 0.05). This suggests DAA therapy and achieving SVR12 is associated with increased overall survival in HCV patients with HCC.
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Developments in the HCV Screening Technologies Based on the Detection of Antigens and Antibodies. SENSORS 2019; 19:s19194257. [PMID: 31575036 PMCID: PMC6806196 DOI: 10.3390/s19194257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) accounts for 15%-20% of cases of acute infection, and chronic HCV infection is developed in about 50%-80% of HCV patients. Unfortunately, due to the lack of proper medical care, difficulty in screening for HCV infection, and lack of awareness resulted in chronic HCV infection in 71 million people on a global scale, and about 399,000 deaths in 2016. It is crucial to recognize that the effective use of antiviral medicines can cure more than 95% of HCV infected people. The Global Health Sector Strategy (GHSS) aim is to reduce the new HCV infections and the HCV associated mortality by 90% and 65%, respectively. Therefore, the methods that are simple, yet powerful enough to detect HCV infections with high sensitivity, specificity, and a shorter window period are crucial to restrain the global burden of HCV healthcare. This article focuses on the technologies used for the detection of HCV in clinical specimens.
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Wyles D, Mangia A, Cheng W, Shafran S, Schwabe C, Ouyang W, Hedskog C, McNally J, Brainard DM, Doehle BP, Svarovskaia E, Miller MD, Mo H, Dvory-Sobol H. Long-term persistence of HCV NS5A resistance-associated substitutions after treatment with the HCV NS5A inhibitor, ledipasvir, without sofosbuvir. Antivir Ther 2019. [PMID: 28650844 DOI: 10.3851/imp3181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on persistence of NS5A resistance-associated substitutions (RASs) may have implications for resistance testing approaches and selection of initial and retreatment strategies. METHODS Long-term persistence of NS5A RASs in HCV genotype (GT) 1 infected subjects (n=76) who did not achieve sustained virological response after receiving ledipasvir (LDV) without sofosbuvir (SOF) and were subsequently enrolled in an ongoing 3-year follow-up registry study was investigated by population or deep sequencing. RESULTS Of the 76 subjects enrolled, 67 and 9 subjects had GT1a and GT1b infection, respectively. At pretreatment, NS5A RASs were detected in 14% of subjects (11/76) by population sequencing, with three subjects having >1 RAS. All RASs that were detected at pretreatment persisted and were observed at the 96 week visit in the follow-up study (FU96). For the remaining subjects with no detectable RASs at pretreatment, RASs were detected in 98% (63/64) of subjects at virological failure in the parent study and persisted at detectable levels through FU96 in 86% of subjects by deep sequencing (1% cutoff). However, a decline in the quasispecies frequency of most RASs and the number of RASs per subject was observed over time. Phenotypic analysis demonstrated that the majority of NS5A RASs confer similar levels of resistance to LDV and daclatasvir. CONCLUSIONS The majority of NS5A RASs can persist at detectable levels for >96 weeks post-treatment in subjects who failed treatment with regimens containing an NS5A inhibitor without SOF, suggesting relatively high fitness of NS5A RASs even in the absence of drug pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Wyles
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Alessandra Mangia
- Liver Unit, Department of Medical Sciences IRCCS 'Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza', San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Wendy Cheng
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Stephen Shafran
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Wen Ouyang
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hongmei Mo
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
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Venkatesan A, Prabhu Dass J F. Review on chemogenomic approaches towards hepatitis C viral targets. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:12167-12181. [PMID: 30887580 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most prevalent viral pathogen that infects more than 185 million people worldwide. HCV infection leads to chronic liver diseases such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are the recent combination therapy for HCV infection with reduced side effects than prior therapies. Sustained virological response (SVR) acts as a gold standard marker to monitor the success of antiviral treatment. Older treatment therapies attain 50-55% of SVR compared with DAAs which attain around 90-95%. The current review emphasizes the recent chemogenomic updates that have been unfolded through structure-based drug design of HCV drug target proteins (NS3/4A, NS5A, and NS5B) and ligand-based drug design of DAAs in achieving a stable HCV viral treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthi Venkatesan
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of BioSciences and Technology (SBST), VIT, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Febin Prabhu Dass J
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of BioSciences and Technology (SBST), VIT, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Özcelik D, Seto A, Rakic B, Farzam A, Supek F, Pezacki JP. Gene Expression Profiling of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Hepatitis C Virus-Containing Cells Treated with an Inhibitor of Protein Disulfide Isomerases. ACS OMEGA 2018; 3:17227-17235. [PMID: 30775641 PMCID: PMC6369735 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b02676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Protein disulfide isomerases (PDIs) catalyze disulfide bond formation between protein cysteine residues during protein folding in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen and are essential for maintaining ER homoeostasis. The life cycle of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is closely associated with the ER. Synthesis and maturation of HCV proteins occur in the ER membrane and are mediated by multiple host cell factors that include also PDI. Here, we present a study investigating the effect of PDI inhibition on Huh7 human hepatoma cells harboring an HCV subgenomic replicon using the abscisic acid-derived PDI inhibitor origamicin. Transcriptional profiling shows that origamicin changed the expression levels of genes involved in the oxidative and ER stress responses and the unfolded protein response, as indicated by the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes and chaperone proteins, the downregulation of cell-cycle proteins, and induction of apoptosis-associated genes. Our data suggest that origamicin negatively impacts HCV replication by causing an imbalance in cellular homoeostasis and induction of stress responses. These insights suggest that inhibition of PDIs by low-molecular-weight inhibitors could be a promising approach to the discovery of novel antiviral compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Özcelik
- Department
of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa, 10 Marie Curie Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Andrew Seto
- Department
of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa, 10 Marie Curie Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Bojana Rakic
- Department
of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa, 10 Marie Curie Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Ali Farzam
- Department
of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa, 10 Marie Curie Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Frantisek Supek
- Department
of Genetics & Neglected Diseases, Genomics
Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - John Paul Pezacki
- Department
of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa, 10 Marie Curie Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
- Department
of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Ottawa Institute for Systems Biology, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
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Kumar A, Pandey R, Yadav IS, Bharadwaj M. Structural and Epitope Analysis (T- and B-Cell Epitopes) of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Glycoproteins: An in silico Approach. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:352-361. [PMID: 30568344 PMCID: PMC6286880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2017.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic infection with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) poses a major risk for liver disease like cirrhosis, liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. In terms of percentage, the prevalence of HCV in India was found to be low to moderate (1-1.5%), but in terms of sheer numbers, India has a significant number of global HCV patients. Presently, HCV can be treated with direct acting-antibody drugs but there is no prophylactic or therapeutic vaccine available against it. In HCV infection, T- and B-cell immunity is important for clearing the virus. In the present study immunoinformatics was used to identify potent vaccine target for HCV vaccine development. METHODS Sequence of HCV was retrieved from NCBI and their structural analysis was done by using Protpram, PSIPRED, iTASSER and PDBsum servers. T-cell and B-cell epitopes were predicted by Immune Epitope Database and ACBPRED servers. RESULTS On epitope prediction, 25 and 55 potent MHC-I epitopes and 7 and 13 potent B-cell epitopes were predicted for E1 and E2 protein respectively. Their antigenicity score was also calculated. The most potent MHC-I epitopes were MMMNWSPAV and MAWDMMMNW for HLA-A*02:01 and HLA-B*53:01 and most potent B-cell epitope was TGHRMAWDMMMNWSPA for E1 protein. For E2, four MHC-I epitopes having the lowest binding energy and most potent B-cell epitope was DRPYCWHYAPRPCDTI. CONCLUSION In the present study, most potent epitopes for HCV was determined on the basis of their antigenicity along with 3D modeling and docking. Identified B- and T-cell epitopes can be used for the development of potent vaccine against most prevalent HCV type in India to limit its infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anoop Kumar
- Division of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, National Institute of Cancer prevention and research (NICPR) formerly Institute of Cytology and Preventive Oncology, Noida, India,Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, National Institute of Biologicals, Noida, India
| | - Roma Pandey
- Department of Biotechnology, Mangalmay Institute of Management and Technology, Greater Noida, India
| | - Inderjit S. Yadav
- School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Mausumi Bharadwaj
- Division of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, National Institute of Cancer prevention and research (NICPR) formerly Institute of Cytology and Preventive Oncology, Noida, India,Address for correspondence: Mausumi Bharadwaj, Scientist F, Division of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Institute of Cytology and Preventive Oncology (ICMR), Noida, India.
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Jamhiri I, Shahin K, Khodabandeh Z, Kalantar K, Sarvari J, Atapour A, Mina F, Ahmadnejad A, Hosseini SY. Recombinant NS3 Protein Induced Expression of Immune Modulatory Elements in Hepatic Stellate Cells During Its Fibrotic Activity. Viral Immunol 2018; 31:575-582. [PMID: 30281404 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2018.0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a growing body of studies that show the important role of NS3 protein from hepatitis C virus in fibrosis. However, mechanisms of the effects of this protein on immune modulation of stellate cells remain to be investigated. Herein, the effect of NS3 protein on the expression level of suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)1/3 and interleukin-24 (IL-24)-related genes was investigated in hepatic stellate cell (HSC), LX-2. Recombinant NS3 protein was added to LX-2 HSC culture. Leptin and standard medium treatments were also included in experiments as positive and negative controls, respectively. Total RNA was extracted from each well at 6, 12, and 24 h after NS3 addition. The expression levels of the fibrotic (transforming growth factor beta 1 [TGF-β], alpha-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA], and COL1A1), inflammatory (IL-6 and IL-24), IL-20R, IL-22R, and immunosuppressive genes (SOCS1 and SOCS3) were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Recombinant NS3 protein induced activated phenotypes of LX-2 with a significant increase in the expression level of α-SMA COL1A1 (p < 0.0001) and TGF-β. Moreover, this exposure led to a meaningful elevation in the expression of IL-6. Furthermore, compared with leptin (control), after the stellate cell treatment with NS3, SOCS1 and SOCS3 gene expression induced at a comparable level. Compared with the control sample, the NS3 protein significantly increased the expression level of IL-24 and its related receptors, IL-20R and IL-22R. This study not only confirmed the previously proved inflammatory and fibrotic effect of this protein but also indicated that high expression levels of SOCS1, SOCS3, and IL-24 have a significant effect on HSC activation. Therefore, these two molecules can be used as a potential therapeutic target candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Jamhiri
- 1 Stem Cell Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
| | - Khashayar Shahin
- 2 Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Isfahan , Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Khodabandeh
- 1 Stem Cell Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kurosh Kalantar
- 3 Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jamal Sarvari
- 4 Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran .,5 Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Atapour
- 6 Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mina
- 5 Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
| | - Asma Ahmadnejad
- 5 Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Younes Hosseini
- 1 Stem Cell Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran .,5 Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
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Patch-Clamp Study of Hepatitis C p7 Channels Reveals Genotype-Specific Sensitivity to Inhibitors. Biophys J 2017; 110:2419-2429. [PMID: 27276260 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2016.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C is a major worldwide disease and health hazard, affecting ∼3% of the world population. The p7 protein of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an intracellular ion channel and pH regulator that is involved in the viral replication cycle. It is targeted by various classical ion channel blockers. Here, we generated p7 constructs corresponding to HCV genotypes 1a, 2a, 3a, and 4a for recombinant expression in HEK293 cells, and studied p7 channels using patch-clamp recording techniques. The pH50 values for recombinant p7 channels were between 6.0 and 6.5, as expected for proton-activated channels, and current-voltage dependence did not show any differences between genotypes. Inhibition of p7-mediated currents by amantadine, however, exhibited significant, genotype-specific variation. The IC50 values of p7-1a and p7-4a were 0.7 ± 0.1 nM and 3.2 ± 1.2 nM, whereas p7-2a and p7-3a had 50- to 1000-fold lower sensitivity, with IC50 values of 2402 ± 334 nM and 344 ± 64 nM, respectively. The IC50 values for rimantadine were low across all genotypes, ranging from 0.7 ± 0.1 nM, 1.6 ± 0.6 nM, and 3.0 ± 0.8 nM for p7-1a, p7-3a, and p7-4a, respectively, to 24 ± 4 nM for p7-2a. Results from patch-clamp recordings agreed well with cellular assays of p7 activity, namely, measurements of intracellular pH and hemadsorption assays, which confirmed the much reduced amantadine sensitivity of genotypes 2a and 3a. Thus, our results establish patch-clamp studies of recombinant viroporins as a valid analytical tool that can provide quantitative information about viroporin channel properties, complementing established techniques.
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Prevalence of NS5B Resistance Mutations in Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Treatment Naive South Africans. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.14248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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Talal AH, Chen Y, Zeremski M, Zavala R, Sylvester C, Kuhns M, Brown LS, Markatou M, Cloherty GA. Hepatitis C virus core antigen: A potential alternative to HCV RNA testing among persons with substance use disorders. J Subst Abuse Treat 2017; 78:37-42. [PMID: 28554601 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2017.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hepatitis C virus (HCV) core antigen (HCVcAg) may be an alternative diagnostic method to HCV RNA especially in populations such as substance users, the homeless or in resource-limited settings. AIMS To evaluate performance of HCVcAg test in patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) on methadone in order to document its performance characteristics in the target population and to ensure that its specificity remains consistent across different populations. METHODS HCVcAg levels from 109 methadone-maintained patients were compared to HCV RNA levels. RESULTS Mean age was 53.8±7.8years, 59.6% were male, 68.8% African American, and 44% HCV-infected. HCVcAg was detectable in 47 of 48 HCV-infected, and undetectable in all HCV RNA negative patients. The HCVcAg assay had sensitivity of 97.9% and specificity of 100%. Correlation with HCV RNA levels was excellent (r=0.88, 95% CI 0.76; 0.95, p<0.01). CONCLUSION HCVcAg has excellent performance for the diagnosis of HCV infection in patients with OUD on methadone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H Talal
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA; START Treatment & Recovery Centers, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Marija Zeremski
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | | | | | - Mary Kuhns
- Abbott Diagnostics, Inc, Abbott Park, IL, USA
| | | | - Marianthi Markatou
- Department of Biostatistics, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Palmer BA, Fanning LJ. Synonymous Co-Variation across the E1/E2 Gene Junction of Hepatitis C Virus Defines Virion Fitness. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0167089. [PMID: 27880830 PMCID: PMC5120871 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0167089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus. The gene junction partitioning the viral glycoproteins E1 and E2 displays concurrent sequence evolution with the 3'-end of E1 highly conserved and the 5'-end of E2 highly heterogeneous. This gene junction is also believed to contain structured RNA elements, with a growing body of evidence suggesting that such structures can act as an additional level of viral replication and transcriptional control. We have previously used ultradeep pyrosequencing to analyze an amplicon library spanning the E1/E2 gene junction from a treatment naïve patient where samples were collected over 10 years of chronic HCV infection. During this timeframe maintenance of an in-frame insertion, recombination and humoral immune targeting of discrete virus sub-populations was reported. In the current study, we present evidence of epistatic evolution across the E1/E2 gene junction and observe the development of co-varying networks of codons set against a background of a complex virome with periodic shifts in population dominance. Overtime, the number of codons actively mutating decreases for all virus groupings. We identify strong synonymous co-variation between codon sites in a group of sequences harbouring a 3 bp in-frame insertion and propose that synonymous mutation acts to stabilize the RNA structural backbone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan A. Palmer
- Molecular Virology Diagnostic & Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- * E-mail: (LJF); (BAP)
| | - Liam J. Fanning
- Molecular Virology Diagnostic & Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- * E-mail: (LJF); (BAP)
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Freiman JM, Tran TM, Schumacher SG, White LF, Ongarello S, Cohn J, Easterbrook PJ, Linas BP, Denkinger CM. Hepatitis C Core Antigen Testing for Diagnosis of Hepatitis C Virus Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Ann Intern Med 2016; 165:345-55. [PMID: 27322622 PMCID: PMC5345254 DOI: 10.7326/m16-0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection requires both a positive HCV antibody screen and confirmatory nucleic acid testing (NAT). Testing for hepatitis C virus core antigen (HCVcAg) is a potential alternative to NAT. PURPOSE To evaluate the accuracy of diagnosis of active HCV infection among adults and children for 5 HCVcAg tests compared with NAT. DATA SOURCES EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from 1990 through 31 March 2016. STUDY SELECTION Case-control, cross-sectional, cohort, or randomized trials that compared any of 5 HCVcAg tests with an NAT reference standard. DATA EXTRACTION 2 independent reviewers extracted data and assessed quality using an adapted QUADAS-2 (Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2) tool. DATA SYNTHESIS 44 studies evaluated 5 index tests. Studies for the Abbott ARCHITECT HCV Ag assay had the highest quality, whereas those for the Ortho HCV Ag enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) had the lowest quality. From bivariate analyses, the sensitivity and specificity of the assays were as follows: Abbott ARCHITECT, 93.4% (95% CI, 90.1% to 96.4%) and 98.8% (CI, 97.4% to 99.5%); Ortho ELISA, 93.2% (CI, 81.6% to 97.7%) and 99.2% (CI, 87.9% to 100%); and Hunan Jynda Bioengineering Group HCV Ag ELISA, 59.5% (CI, 46.0% to 71.7%) and 82.9% (CI, 58.6% to 94.3%). Insufficient data were available for a meta-analysis about the Fujirebio Lumipulse Ortho HCV Ag and Eiken Lumispot HCV Ag assays. In 3 quantitative studies using Abbott ARCHITECT, HCVcAg correlated closely with HCV RNA levels greater than 3000 IU/mL. LIMITATIONS Insufficient data were available on covariates, such as HIV or hepatitis B virus status, for subgroup analyses. Few studies reported genotypes of isolates, and data for genotypes 4, 5, and 6 were scant. Most studies were conducted in high-resource settings and reference laboratories. CONCLUSION The HCVcAg assays with signal amplification have high sensitivity, high specificity, and good correlation with HCV RNA levels greater than 3000 IU/mL and have the potential to replace NAT in settings with high HCV prevalence. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE National Institutes of Health.
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Pang X, Wang Z, Zhai N, Zhang Q, Song H, Zhang Y, Li T, Li H, Su L, Niu J, Tu Z. IL-10 plays a central regulatory role in the cytokines induced by hepatitis C virus core protein and polyinosinic acid:polycytodylic acid. Int Immunopharmacol 2016; 38:284-90. [PMID: 27337528 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2016.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) can cause persistent infection and chronic liver disease, and viral factors are involved in HCV persistence. HCV core protein, a highly conserved viral protein, not only elicits an immunoresponse, but it also regulates it. In addition, HCV core protein interacts with toll-like receptors (TLRs) on monocytes, inducing them to produce cytokines. Polyinosinic acid:polycytodylic acid (polyI:C) is a synthetic analogue of double-stranded RNA that binds to TLR3 and can induce secretion of type I IFN from monocytes. Cytokine response against HCV is likely to affect the natural course of infection as well as HCV persistence. However, possible effects of cytokines induced by HCV core protein and polyI:C remain to be investigated. In this study, we isolated CD14(+) monocytes from healthy donors, cultured them in the presence of HCV core protein and/or polyI:C, and characterized the induced cytokines, phenotypes and mechanisms. We demonstrated that HCV core protein- and polyI:C-stimulated CD14(+) monocytes secreted tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10, and type I interferon (IFN). Importantly, TNF-α and IL-1β regulated the secretion of IL-10, which then influenced the expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) and subsequently the production of type I IFN. Interestingly, type I IFN also regulated the production of IL-10, which in turn inhibited the nuclear factor (NF)-κB subunit, reducing TNF-α and IL-1β levels. Therefore, IL-10 appears to play a central role in regulating the production of cytokines induced by HCV core protein and polyI:C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Pang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China; Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Zhaoxia Wang
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Naicui Zhai
- Translational Medicine Research Institute, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Qianqian Zhang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Hongxiao Song
- Translational Medicine Research Institute, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Yujiao Zhang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Tianyang Li
- Translational Medicine Research Institute, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Haijun Li
- Translational Medicine Research Institute, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Lishan Su
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Junqi Niu
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China.
| | - Zhengkun Tu
- Translational Medicine Research Institute, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China.
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Sautto GA, Wisskirchen K, Clementi N, Castelli M, Diotti RA, Graf J, Clementi M, Burioni R, Protzer U, Mancini N. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells redirected against hepatitis C virus (HCV) E2 glycoprotein. Gut 2016; 65:512-23. [PMID: 25661083 PMCID: PMC4789830 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2014-308316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The recent availability of novel antiviral drugs has raised new hope for a more effective treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and its severe sequelae. However, in the case of non-responding or relapsing patients, alternative strategies are needed. To this end we have used chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), a very promising approach recently used in several clinical trials to redirect primary human T cells against different tumours. In particular, we designed the first CARs against HCV targeting the HCV/E2 glycoprotein (HCV/E2). DESIGN Anti-HCV/E2 CARs were composed of single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) obtained from a broadly cross-reactive and cross-neutralising human monoclonal antibody (mAb), e137, fused to the intracellular signalling motif of the costimulatory CD28 molecule and the CD3ζ domain. Activity of CAR-grafted T cells was evaluated in vitro against HCV/E2-transfected cells as well as hepatocytes infected with cell culture-derived HCV (HCVcc). RESULTS In this proof-of-concept study, retrovirus-transduced human T cells expressing anti-HCV/E2 CARs were endowed with specific antigen recognition accompanied by degranulation and secretion of proinflammatory and antiviral cytokines, such as interferon γ, interleukin 2 and tumour necrosis factor α. Moreover, CAR-grafted T cells were capable of lysing target cells of both hepatic and non-hepatic origin expressing on their surface the HCV/E2 glycoproteins of the most clinically relevant genotypes, including 1a, 1b, 2a, 3a, 4 and 5. Finally, and more importantly, they were capable of lysing HCVcc-infected hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS Clearance of HCV-infected cells is a major therapeutic goal in chronic HCV infection, and adoptive transfer of anti-HCV/E2 CARs-grafted T cells represents a promising new therapeutic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe A Sautto
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia e Virologia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Karin Wisskirchen
- Institute of Virology, Technische Universität München/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Nicola Clementi
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia e Virologia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Castelli
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia e Virologia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta A Diotti
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia e Virologia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Julia Graf
- Institute of Virology, Technische Universität München/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Massimo Clementi
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia e Virologia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Burioni
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia e Virologia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, Technische Universität München/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Nicasio Mancini
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia e Virologia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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Altindis M, Dal T, Akyar I, Karatuna O, Gokahmetoglu S, Ulger ST, Kulah C, Uzun B, Şener AG, Ozdemir M, Aydogan S, Kuskucu MA, Midilli K, Otlu B, Celen MK, Buruk K, Guducuoglu H. Six-year distribution pattern of hepatitis C virus in Turkey: a multicentre study. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2015.1093430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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42
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Adebajo CO, Reau N. Overtreating versus undertreating: what is the optimized treatment duration in HCV? Future Virol 2015. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl.15.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The prospect of global eradication of HCV is foreseeable with IFN-free direct-acting antiviral (DAA) combination therapies. DAAs boasts 12-week sustained virologic response rates (SVR)-12 that exceed 90%. Despite the 90% and above SVR-12 achieved with DAAs, challenges regarding how to select the optimal treatment regimen remain. One of the biggest challenges is how to actualize the benefits without under- or over-treating HCV-infected individuals. Truncated therapy should be less expensive, but may unnecessarily increase the risk of relapse. The risk of overtreatment includes costs and exposure to adverse effects of the medication. Here, we provide our perspective on selection of the optimized treatment duration in HCV to minimize either over- or under-treating HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corlan O Adebajo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, The University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Nancy Reau
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Rush University Medical Center, 1725 West Harrison Street, Professional Building Suite 319, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Abstract
The combination of daclatasvir + asunaprevir [Daklinza(®) + Sunvepra(®) (Japan)], two direct-acting antiviral agents, has been developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb for the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 infections, including those with compensated cirrhosis. Daclatasvir + asunaprevir has received its first global approval in this indication in Japan. Daclatasvir + asunaprevir is the first all-oral, interferon- and ribavirin-free regimen for this indication. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of daclatasvir + asunaprevir leading to this first approval for the treatment of chronic HCV genotype 1 infections.
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Kwon HJ, Xing W, Chan K, Niedziela-Majka A, Brendza KM, Kirschberg T, Kato D, Link JO, Cheng G, Liu X, Sakowicz R. Direct binding of ledipasvir to HCV NS5A: mechanism of resistance to an HCV antiviral agent. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122844. [PMID: 25856426 PMCID: PMC4391872 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ledipasvir, a direct acting antiviral agent (DAA) targeting the Hepatitis C Virus NS5A protein, exhibits picomolar activity in replicon cells. While its mechanism of action is unclear, mutations that confer resistance to ledipasvir in HCV replicon cells are located in NS5A, suggesting that NS5A is the direct target of ledipasvir. To date co-precipitation and cross-linking experiments in replicon or NS5A transfected cells have not conclusively shown a direct, specific interaction between NS5A and ledipasvir. Using recombinant, full length NS5A, we show that ledipasvir binds directly, with high affinity and specificity, to NS5A. Ledipasvir binding to recombinant NS5A is saturable with a dissociation constant in the low nanomolar range. A mutant form of NS5A (Y93H) that confers resistance to ledipasvir shows diminished binding to ledipasvir. The current study shows that ledipasvir inhibits NS5A through direct binding and that resistance to ledipasvir is the result of a reduction in binding affinity to NS5A mutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyock Joo Kwon
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Weimei Xing
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, California, United States of America
| | - Katie Chan
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, California, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Darryl Kato
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, California, United States of America
| | - John O. Link
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, California, United States of America
| | - Guofeng Cheng
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, California, United States of America
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, California, United States of America
| | - Roman Sakowicz
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, California, United States of America
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Mirza MU, Ghori NUH, Ikram N, Adil AR, Manzoor S. Pharmacoinformatics approach for investigation of alternative potential hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 5B inhibitors. Drug Des Devel Ther 2015; 9:1825-41. [PMID: 25848219 PMCID: PMC4383224 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s75886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the major viruses affecting the world today. It is a highly variable virus, having a rapid reproduction and evolution rate. The variability of genomes is due to hasty replication catalyzed by nonstructural protein 5B (NS5B) which is also a potential target site for the development of anti-HCV agents. Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration approved sofosbuvir as a novel oral NS5B inhibitor for the treatment of HCV. Unfortunately, it is much highlighted for its pricing issues. Hence, there is an urgent need to scrutinize alternate therapies against HCV that are available at affordable price and do not have associated side effects. Such a need is crucial especially in underdeveloped countries. The search for various new bioactive compounds from plants is a key part of pharmaceutical research. In the current study, we applied a pharmacoinformatics-based approach for the identification of active plant-derived compounds against NS5B. The results were compared to docking results of sofosbuvir. The lead compounds with high-binding ligands were further analyzed for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters based on in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profile. The results showed the potential alternative lead compounds that can be developed into commercial drugs having high binding energy and promising ADMET properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Usman Mirza
- Centre for Research in Molecular Medicine (CRiMM), The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Noor-Ul-Huda Ghori
- Atta-ur-Rehman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Science and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Nazia Ikram
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abdur Rehman Adil
- Centre for Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), The University of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sadia Manzoor
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
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Ventura GT, da Costa ECB, Capaccia AM, Mohana-Borges R. pH-dependent conformational changes in the HCV NS3 protein modulate its ATPase and helicase activities. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115941. [PMID: 25551442 PMCID: PMC4281115 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 11/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects 170 to 200 million people worldwide and is, therefore, a major health problem. The lack of efficient treatments that specifically target the viral proteins or RNA and its high chronicity rate make hepatitis C the cause of many deaths and hepatic transplants annually. The NS3 protein is considered an important target for the development of anti-HCV drugs because it is composed of two domains (a serine protease in the N-terminal portion and an RNA helicase/NTPase in the C-terminal portion), which are essential for viral replication and proliferation. We expressed and purified both the NS3 helicase domain (NS3hel) and the full-length NS3 protein (NS3FL) and characterized pH-dependent structural changes associated with the increase in their ATPase and helicase activities at acidic pH. Using intrinsic fluorescence experiments, we have observed that NS3hel was less stable at pH 6.4 than at pH 7.2. Moreover, binding curves using an extrinsic fluorescent probe (bis-ANS) and ATPase assays performed under different pH conditions demonstrated that the hydrophobic clefts of NS3 are significantly more exposed to the aqueous medium at acidic pH. Using fluorescence spectroscopy and anisotropy assays, we have also observed more protein interaction with DNA upon pH acidification, which suggests that the hydrophobic clefts exposure on NS3 might be related to a loss of stability that could lead it to adopt a more open conformation. This conformational change at acidic pH would stimulate both its ATPase and helicase activities, as well as its ability to bind DNA. Taken together, our results indicate that the NS3 protein adopts a more open conformation due to acidification from pH 7.2 to 6.4, resulting in a more active form at a pH that is found near Golgi-derived membranes. This increased activity could better allow NS3 to carry out its functions during HCV replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Tavares Ventura
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Emmerson Corrêa Brasil da Costa
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Anne Miranda Capaccia
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Mohana-Borges
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Yao Z, Song X, Cao S, Liang W, Lu W, Yang L, Zhang Z, Wei L. Role of the exogenous HCV core protein in the interaction of human hepatocyte proliferation and macrophage sub-populations. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108278. [PMID: 25265479 PMCID: PMC4180735 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The core protein of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is found in the cytoplasm and nuclei of infected cells, including hepatocytes and other cells in the liver. The core protein could be secreted as well. Resident liver macrophages are dependent on the tissue micro-environment and external stimuli to differentiate M1 and M2 hypotypes with distinct functions, and increased expression of the nuclear transcription factor STAT3 was seen in M2-polarized macrophages. In contrast to proinflammatory M1 macrophages, M2 macrophages serve beneficial roles in chronic inflammation, immunosuppression, and tumorigenesis. METHODS Monocyte-derived human macrophage line (mTHP-1) was treated with the exogenous HCV core protein. Next, the mTHP-1 culture supernatant or cell pellets were added to culture media of normal human liver cell line (L02). RESULTS Only the culture supernatant stimulated L02 cells proliferation, which was associated with phosphorylated ERK expression. Core protein activated mTHP-1 cells showed enhanced pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines secretion, which was accompanied by high expression of phosphorylated NF-κB105 and NF-κB65. However, phosphorylated STAT1, and STAT3, which are normally associated with M1 and M2 macrophage polarization, and cell surface expression of CD206, CD14, CD16, and CD86, were unaltered. A transwell co-culture system showed that only in mTHP-1 co-cultured with L02 in the presence of exogenous core protein, were higher levels of phosphorylated STAT3 and CD206 seen. CONCLUSIONS We showed L02 cells proliferation was accelerated by the culture supernatant of mTHP-1 cells treated with the exogenous HCV core protein. The exogenous core protein mediated the interaction between macrophages and hepatocytes in co-culture, which enhanced the expression of phosphorylated STAT3 and CD206 in macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyan Yao
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiaotian Song
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Shiru Cao
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wenzhang Liang
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wenran Lu
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lijuan Yang
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhengzheng Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lin Wei
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
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48
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Fan X, Xue B, Dolan PT, LaCount DJ, Kurgan L, Uversky VN. The intrinsic disorder status of the human hepatitis C virus proteome. MOLECULAR BIOSYSTEMS 2014; 10:1345-63. [PMID: 24752801 DOI: 10.1039/c4mb00027g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Many viral proteins or their biologically important regions are disordered as a whole, or contain long disordered regions. These intrinsically disordered proteins/regions do not possess unique structures and possess functions that complement the functional repertoire of "normal" ordered proteins and domains, with many protein functional classes being heavily dependent on the intrinsic disorder. Viruses commonly use these highly flexible regions to invade the host organisms and to hijack various host systems. These disordered regions also help viruses in adapting to their hostile habitats and to manage their economic usage of genetic material. In this article, we focus on the structural peculiarities of proteins from human hepatitis C virus (HCV) and use a wide spectrum of bioinformatics techniques to evaluate the abundance of intrinsic disorder in the completed proteomes of several human HCV genotypes, to analyze the peculiarities of disorder distribution within the individual HCV proteins, and to establish potential roles of the structural disorder in functions of ten HCV proteins. We show that the intrinsic disorder or increased flexibility is not only abundant in these proteins, but is also absolutely necessary for their functions, playing a crucial role in the proteolytic processing of the HCV polyprotein, the maturation of the individual HCV proteins, and being related to the posttranslational modifications of these proteins and their interactions with DNA, RNA, and various host proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Fan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta AB T6G 2V4, Canada.
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de Amorim RMS, Coelho A, Lampe E, Raiol T, Martins RMB. Genetic diversity of hepatitis C virus quasispecies in chronic renal failure patients in Midwest Brazil. Arch Virol 2014; 159:1917-25. [PMID: 24562426 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-014-1994-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) quasispecies constitute a dynamic population in a continuous process of variation and selection. To investigate effect of the immune system on the genetic variability of HCV, we compared the hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) of immunosuppressed patients with chronic renal failure (CRF group) to immunocompetent patients with HCV chronic infection (control group). The HVR1 from ten samples of each group was amplified, cloned and sequenced. The HCV quasispecies from the control group had a higher frequency of variable sites in HVR1 (83.9 % vs 59.3 %, p < 0.05), as well as a greater diversity within (intra-patient) and between samples, compared to the CRF group. The clustering of the majority of the quasispecies of the CRF group in the phylogenetic tree also showed the limited diversity of the quasispecies in immunosuppressed patients. Moreover, a higher variability of amino acids at positions 384, 386, 391, 394, 397, 398, 400, 405 and 410 was observed in the control group than in the CRF group, which showed a greater variability only at position 388 (p < 0.05). These data corroborates the hypothesis that the major selective pressure factor is the immune system, which promotes a high degree of diversity in the viral progeny and contributes to a constant evolution of HCV.
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50
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Kakarla R, Liu J, Naduthambi D, Chang W, Mosley RT, Bao D, Steuer HMM, Keilman M, Bansal S, Lam AM, Seibel W, Neilson S, Furman PA, Sofia MJ. Discovery of a novel class of potent HCV NS4B inhibitors: SAR studies on piperazinone derivatives. J Med Chem 2014; 57:2136-60. [PMID: 24476391 DOI: 10.1021/jm4012643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
HTS screening identified compound 2a (piperazinone derivative) as a low micromolar HCV genotype 1 (GT-1) inhibitor. Resistance mapping studies suggested that this piperazinone chemotype targets the HCV nonstructural protein NS4B. Extensive SAR studies were performed around 2a and the amide function and the C-3/C-6 cis stereochemistry of the piperazinone core were essential for HCV activity. A 10-fold increase in GT-1 potency was observed when the chiral phenylcyclopropyl amide side chain of 2a was replaced with p-fluorophenylisoxazole-carbonyl moiety (67). Replacing the C-6 nonpolar hydrophobic moiety of 67 with a phenyl moiety (95) did not diminish the GT-1 potency. A heterocyclic thiophene moiety (103) and an isoxazole moiety (108) were incorporated as isosteric replacements for the C-6 phenyl moiety (95), resulting in significant improvement in GT-1b and 1a potency. However, the piperazonone class of compounds lacks GT-2 activity and, consequently, were not pursued further into development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Kakarla
- Pharmasset, Inc. 303A College Road East, Princeton, New Jersey 08540, United States
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