101
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Mehta N, Roberts JP, Yao FY. Lack of benefits of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor in patients transplanted for hepatocellular carcinoma: Is this the end of the story? Liver Transpl 2016; 22:582-4. [PMID: 26951991 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Neil Mehta
- Divisions of 1Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - John P Roberts
- 2Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Francis Y Yao
- Divisions of 1Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,2Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA
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102
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Yanik EL, Chinnakotla S, Gustafson SK, Snyder JJ, Israni AK, Segev DL, Engels EA. Effects of maintenance immunosuppression with sirolimus after liver transplant for hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:627-34. [PMID: 26784951 PMCID: PMC4846564 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
For recipients of liver transplantations (LTs) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), HCC recurrence after transplantation remains a major concern. Sirolimus (SRL), an immunosuppressant with anticarcinogenic properties, may reduce HCC recurrence and improve survival. In our study, the US Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients was linked to pharmacy claims. For liver recipients transplanted for HCC, Cox regression was used to estimate associations of early SRL use with recurrence, cancer-specific mortality, and all-cause mortality, adjusting for recipient ethnicity, calendar year of transplant, total tumor volume, alpha-fetoprotein, transplant center size, use of interleukin 2 induction therapy, and allocated and calculated Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score. We performed stratified analyses among recipients who met Milan criteria, among those without renal failure, among those with deceased liver donors, by age at transplantation, and by tumor size. Among the 3936 included HCC LTs, 234 (6%) were SRL users. In total, there were 242 recurrences and 879 deaths, including 261 cancer-related deaths. All-cause mortality was similar in SRL users and nonusers (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.01; 95% CI, 0.73-1.39). HCC recurrence and cancer-specific mortality rates appeared lower in SRL users, but associations were not statistically significant (recurrence aHR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.45-1.65; cancer-specific mortality aHR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.43-1.50). Among recipients >55 years old, associations were suggestive of better outcomes for SRL users (all-cause mortality aHR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.38-1.01; recurrence aHR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.19-1.44; cancer-specific mortality aHR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.11-1.09), whereas among recipients ≤55 years old, SRL users had worse outcomes (all-cause mortality aHR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.12-2.75; recurrence aHR, 1.49; 95% CI, 0.62-3.61; cancer-specific mortality aHR, 1.54; 95% CI, 0.71-3.32). In conclusion, among HCC liver recipients overall, SRL did not appear beneficial in reducing all-cause mortality. However, there were suggestions of reductions in recurrence and cancer-specific mortality, and effects appeared to be modified by age at transplantation. Liver Transplantation 22 627-634 2016 AASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L. Yanik
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
| | | | - Sally K. Gustafson
- Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Jon J. Snyder
- Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation, Minneapolis, MN,Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Ajay K. Israni
- Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation, Minneapolis, MN,Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN,Hennepin County Medical Center, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Dorry L. Segev
- Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation, Minneapolis, MN,School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Eric A. Engels
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
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103
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Sirolimus Use in Liver Transplant Recipients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Randomized, Multicenter, Open-Label Phase 3 Trial. Transplantation 2016; 100:116-25. [PMID: 26555945 PMCID: PMC4683033 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000000965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 302] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether sirolimus-based immunosuppression improves outcomes in liver transplantation (LTx) candidates with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In a large prospective randomized open-label international trial, liver transplant recipients for HCC were randomized to receive non-mTOR-inhibitor-based-treatment or mTOR-inhibitor-based-treatment. Results indicate overall sirolimus does not improve long-term recurrence-free survival beyond 5 years while a benefit was seen in low-risk patients. Supplemental digital content is available in the text.
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104
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Llovet JM, Zucman-Rossi J, Pikarsky E, Sangro B, Schwartz M, Sherman M, Gores G. Hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2016; 2:16018. [PMID: 27158749 DOI: 10.1038/nrdp.2016.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1659] [Impact Index Per Article: 207.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Liver cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally and has an incidence of approximately 850,000 new cases per year. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents approximately 90% of all cases of primary liver cancer. The main risk factors for developing HCC are well known and include hepatitis B and C virus infection, alcohol intake and ingestion of the fungal metabolite aflatoxin B1. Additional risk factors such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis are also emerging. Advances in the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of HCC have led to identification of critical driver mutations; however, the most prevalent of these are not yet druggable targets. The molecular classification of HCC is not established, and the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging classification is the main clinical algorithm for the stratification of patients according to prognosis and treatment allocation. Surveillance programmes enable the detection of early-stage tumours that are amenable to curative therapies - resection, liver transplantation or local ablation. At more developed stages, only chemoembolization (for intermediate HCC) and sorafenib (for advanced HCC) have shown survival benefits. There are major unmet needs in HCC management that might be addressed through the discovery of new therapies and their combinations for use in the adjuvant setting and for intermediate- and advanced-stage disease. Moreover, biomarkers for therapy stratification, patient-tailored strategies targeting driver mutations and/or activating signalling cascades, and validated measurements of quality of life are needed. Recent failures in the testing of systemic drugs for intermediate and advanced stages have indicated a need to refine trial designs and to define novel approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep M Llovet
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases and RM Transplant Institute, Tisch Cancer Institute, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Madison Avenue 1425, 11F-70, Box 1123, New York, New York 10029, USA.,Liver Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS - Hospital Clinic, CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jessica Zucman-Rossi
- INSERM, UMR-1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Institut Universitaire d'Haematologie, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Labex Immuno-Oncology, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Faculté de Médecine, Paris, France.,Université Paris 13, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Formation et de Recherche Santé, Médecine, Biologie Humaine, Bobigny, France.,Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Eli Pikarsky
- Lautenberg Center for Immunology and Cancer Research and Department of Pathology, Hebrew University Hadassah-Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Bruno Sangro
- Liver Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Myron Schwartz
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases and RM Transplant Institute, Tisch Cancer Institute, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Madison Avenue 1425, 11F-70, Box 1123, New York, New York 10029, USA
| | - Morris Sherman
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gregory Gores
- Mayo Clinic, Mayo College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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105
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Khorsandi SE, Heaton N. Optimization of immunosuppressive medication upon liver transplantation against HCC recurrence. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 1:25. [PMID: 28138592 DOI: 10.21037/tgh.2016.03.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of liver transplant listing criteria for hepatocellular cancer (HCC) has significantly improved oncological outcomes and survival. But despite this HCC recurrence is still problematic. There is emerging evidence that the choice of immunosuppression (IS) after transplant for HCC can influence oncological survival and HCC recurrence. The following is a short summary of what has been published on HCC recurrence with the different classes of immunosuppressive agents in present use, concluding with the possible rationalization of the use of these immunosuppressive agents in the post-transplant patient at high risk of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Elizabeth Khorsandi
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's Healthcare Partners at Denmark Hill, King's College Hospital NHSFT, London, SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Nigel Heaton
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's Healthcare Partners at Denmark Hill, King's College Hospital NHSFT, London, SE5 9RS, UK
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106
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Xu DW, Wan P, Xia Q. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma beyond the Milan criteria: A review. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:3325-34. [PMID: 27022214 PMCID: PMC4806190 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i12.3325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) has been accepted as an effective therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The Milan criteria (MC) are widely used across the world to select LT candidates in HCC patients. However, the MC may be too strict because a substantial subset of patients who have HCC exceed the MC and who would benefit from LT may be unnecessarily excluded from the waiting list. In recent years, many extended criteria beyond the MC were raised, which were proved to be able to yield similar outcomes compared with those patients meeting the MC. Because the simple use of tumor size and number was insufficient to indicate HCC biological features and to predict the risk of tumor recurrence, some biological markers such as Alpha-fetoprotein, Des-Gamma-carboxy prothrombin and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were useful in selecting LT candidates in HCC patients beyond the MC. For patients with advanced HCC, downstaging therapy is an effective way to reduce the tumor stage to fulfill the MC by using liver-directed therapy such as transarterial chemoembolization, radiofrequency ablation and percutaneous ethanol injection. This article reviews the recent advances in LT for HCC beyond the MC.
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107
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Waldner M, Fantus D, Solari M, Thomson AW. New perspectives on mTOR inhibitors (rapamycin, rapalogs and TORKinibs) in transplantation. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 82:1158-1170. [PMID: 26810941 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The macrolide rapamycin and its analogues (rapalogs) constitute the first generation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors. Since the introduction of rapamycin as an immunosuppressant, there has been extensive progress in understanding its complex mechanisms of action. New insights into the function of mTOR in different immune cell types, vascular endothelial cells and neoplastic cells have opened new opportunities and challenges regarding mTOR as a pharmacological target. Currently, the two known mTOR complexes, mTOR complex (mTORC) 1 and mTORC2, are the subject of intense investigation, and the introduction of second-generation dual mTORC kinase inhibitors (TORKinibs) and gene knockout mice is helping to uncover the distinct roles of these complexes in different cell types. While the pharmacological profiling of rapalogs is advanced, much less is known about the properties of TORKinibs. A potential benefit of mTOR inhibition in transplantation is improved protection against transplant-associated viral infections compared with standard calcineurin inhibitor-based immunosuppression. Preclinical and clinical data also underscore the potentially favourable antitumour effects of mTOR inhibitors in regard to transplant-associated malignancies and as a novel treatment option for various other cancers. Many aspects of the mechanisms of action of mTOR inhibitors and their clinical implications remain unknown. In this brief review we discuss new findings and perspectives of mTOR inhibitors in transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Waldner
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Fantus
- Starzl Transplantation Institute and Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mario Solari
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Angus W Thomson
- Starzl Transplantation Institute and Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. .,Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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108
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Huang YY, Hsu CC, Chou CL, Loong CC, Wu MS, Chou YC. Trends in the use of maintenance immunosuppressive drugs among liver transplant recipients in Taiwan: a nationwide population-based study. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2016; 25:661-7. [PMID: 26799240 DOI: 10.1002/pds.3964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE During the past two decades, many novel immunosuppressive drugs have been approved for transplant recipients. Trends in the use of maintenance immunosuppressants after liver transplantation in Asia are unclear. Thus, we aimed to analyze the prescription trends in maintenance immunosuppressive drugs among liver transplant recipients in Taiwan and compare the results with the trends reported from western countries. METHODS We conducted a retrospective nationwide population-based study utilizing the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) to analyze the prescribing patterns of immunosuppressants used in Taiwanese liver transplant recipients from 2000 to 2009. RESULTS A total of 1686 liver transplant patients and their prescriptions of immunosuppressants were analyzed. The 5-year survival rate of liver transplant recipients was 79.6%. In 2009, the major immunosuppressive therapy among liver transplant recipients was a dual-drug regimen with tacrolimus and mycophenolic acid (57.3%). Among the calcineurin inhibitors (CNI), the use of cyclosporine decreased from 58.9% to 12.5%, while the use of tacrolimus notably increased from 23.3% to 77.5%. The use of azathioprine decreased from 21.3% to 0.4%, while the use of mycophenolic acid increased from 56.1% to 76.5%. Among the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors, sirolimus was approved in 2002, and its use increased to 8.7% in 2009. In the first 3 months after liver transplantation, a total of 17 different regimens were used in 2009, compared with seven regimens in 2000. CONCLUSIONS Although the CNI-based combination obviously remains the major regimen, our results reveal a trend toward individualized immunosuppressive regimens among Taiwanese liver transplant recipients. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Yu Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department and Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chen Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Lin Chou
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Che-Chuan Loong
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Min-Shan Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Ching Chou
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department and Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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109
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Fahrner R, Dondorf F, Ardelt M, Dittmar Y, Settmacher U, Rauchfuß F. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma - factors influencing outcome and disease-free survival. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:12071-12082. [PMID: 26576092 PMCID: PMC4641125 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i42.12071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2015] [Revised: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Liver transplantation can be a curative treatment in selected patients. However, there are several factors that influence disease-free survival after transplantation. This review addresses the pre-, intra- and postoperative factors that influence the risk of tumor recurrence after liver transplantation.
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110
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Bellissimo F, Pinzone MR, Cacopardo B, Nunnari G. Diagnostic and therapeutic management of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:12003-12021. [PMID: 26576088 PMCID: PMC4641121 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i42.12003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an increasing health problem, representing the second cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The major risk factor for HCC is cirrhosis. In developing countries, viral hepatitis represent the major risk factor, whereas in developed countries, the epidemic of obesity, diabetes and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis contribute to the observed increase in HCC incidence. Cirrhotic patients are recommended to undergo HCC surveillance by abdominal ultrasounds at 6-mo intervals. The current diagnostic algorithms for HCC rely on typical radiological hallmarks in dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging, while the use of α-fetoprotein as an independent tool for HCC surveillance is not recommended by current guidelines due to its low sensitivity and specificity. Early diagnosis is crucial for curative treatments. Surgical resection, radiofrequency ablation and liver transplantation are considered the cornerstones of curative therapy, while for patients with more advanced HCC recommended options include sorafenib and trans-arterial chemo-embolization. A multidisciplinary team, consisting of hepatologists, surgeons, radiologists, oncologists and pathologists, is fundamental for a correct management. In this paper, we review the diagnostic and therapeutic management of HCC, with a focus on the most recent evidences and recommendations from guidelines.
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111
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Lee YJ, Jang BK. The Role of Autophagy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:26629-43. [PMID: 26561802 PMCID: PMC4661843 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161125984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a catabolic process involved in cellular homeostasis under basal and stressed conditions. Autophagy is crucial for normal liver physiology and the pathogenesis of liver diseases. During the last decade, the function of autophagy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been evaluated extensively. Currently, autophagy is thought to play a dual role in HCC, i.e., autophagy is involved in tumorigenesis and tumor suppression. Recent investigations of autophagy have suggested that autophagy biomarkers can facilitate HCC prognosis and the establishment of therapeutic approaches. In this review, we briefly summarize the current understanding of autophagy and discuss recent evidence for its role in HCC.
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MESH Headings
- AMP-Activated Protein Kinases/genetics
- AMP-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism
- Animals
- Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins/genetics
- Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins/metabolism
- Autophagy/genetics
- Autophagy-Related Protein-1 Homolog
- Beclin-1
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/diagnosis
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Humans
- Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/genetics
- Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/diagnosis
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1
- Mice
- Multiprotein Complexes/genetics
- Multiprotein Complexes/metabolism
- Prognosis
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics
- TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoo Jin Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-712, Korea.
| | - Byoung Kuk Jang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 700-712, Korea.
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112
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de’Angelis N, Landi F, Carra MC, Azoulay D. Managements of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation: A systematic review. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:11185-11198. [PMID: 26494973 PMCID: PMC4607916 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i39.11185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2015] [Revised: 04/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the efficacy (survival) and safety of treatments for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in liver transplantation (LT) patients.
METHODS: Literature search was performed on available online databases without a time limit until January 2015. Clinical studies describing survival after HCC recurrence in LT patients were retrieved for a full-text evaluation. A total of 61 studies were selected: 13 case reports, 41 retrospective case series, and 7 retrospective comparative studies.
RESULTS: Based on all included studies, the mean HCC recurrence rate was 16% of all LTs for HCC. A total of 1021 LT patients experienced HCC recurrence. The median time from LT to HCC recurrence was 13 mo (range 2-132 mo). The majority of patients (67%) presented with HCC extra-hepatic recurrences, involving lung, bone, adrenal gland, peritoneal lymph nodes, and rarely the brain. Overall survival after HCC recurrence was 12.97 mo. Surgical resection of localized HCC recurrence and Sorafenib for controlling systemic spread of HCC recurrence were associated with the higher survival rates (42 and 18 mo, respectively). However, Sorafenib, especially when combined with mTOR, was frequently associated with severe side effects that required dose reduction or discontinuation
CONCLUSION: Management of recurrent HCC in LT patients is challenging and associated with poor prognosis independently of the type of treatment.
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113
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Abstract
From the early days of transplantation onwards, increased cancer development in transplant recipients, who require immunosuppression to avoid graft rejection, has been recognized. Registry data indicate that approximately 10-30% of deaths are attributed to post-transplant malignancy, with an upward trend in this incidence as more patients have been exposed to chronic lifelong immunosuppression. In this Review, the overall incidence and most frequent types of cancer encountered are summarized, along with information about which transplant recipients are at the greatest risk of malignancy. Reasons for why differences exist in susceptibility to cancer in this patient population are examined, and approaches that might improve our understanding of the options available for reducing the incidence of this adverse effect of immunosuppression are described. Whether anti-rejection drugs have been successful in diminishing overall immunosuppressive burden, and consequently show any promise for decreasing post-transplant malignancies is also discussed. The topic shifts to one class of conventional anti-rejection drugs, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors, which paradoxically have both immunosuppressive and anti-neoplastic properties. The complex activities of mTOR are reviewed in order to provide context for how these seemingly opposing effects are possible, and the latest clinical data on use of mTOR inhibitors in the clinic are discussed. The current and future perspectives on how best to normalize these unacceptably high rates of post-transplantation malignancies are highlighted.
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114
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Li X, Hou X, Ding W, Cong S, Zhang Y, Chen M, Meng Y, Lei J, Liu Y, Li G. Sirolimus-loaded polymeric micelles with honokiol for oral delivery. J Pharm Pharmacol 2015; 67:1663-72. [DOI: 10.1111/jphp.12482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
The aims of the present study were to design polymeric micelles loading sirolimus with honokiol to increase drug solubility and to gain an insight into the effect of honokiol on oral transport of P-glycoprotein substrate (P-gp).
Methods
Particle size distribution, encapsulation efficiency, drug-loading content and in-vitro release of sirolimus-loaded micelles with honokiol were determined. Transport of sirolimus-loaded micelles across Caco-2 cell monolayers and jejunum segment of rats were investigated. In-vitro cytotoxicity experiments and the cellular uptake study were carried out via sulforhodamine B assay and flow cytometry, respectively.
Key findings
A coadministration of honokiol with sirolimus in micelles did not significantly modify the particle size, polydispersity index and release of drugs demonstrating successful loading within the micelles. The apparent transport coefficients (Papp) and effective permeability (Peff) of sirolimus were increased with more amount of honokiol loaded in micelles. Cellular uptake study demonstrated that rhodamine123 uptake rate was enhanced by honokiol-loaded micelles, indicating substantial P-gp inhibition action by honokiol and mPEG-PLA-based micelles.
Conclusion
Oral transport of sirolimus was significantly improved by coadministration with honokiol, an inhibitor of the P-gp, in polymeric micelles formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinru Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xucheng Hou
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Weiming Ding
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shuangchen Cong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Mengmeng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yansha Meng
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiongxi Lei
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Guiling Li
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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115
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Faltermeier C, Busuttil RW, Zarrinpar A. A Surgical Perspective on Targeted Therapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Diseases 2015; 3:221-252. [PMID: 28943622 PMCID: PMC5548262 DOI: 10.3390/diseases3040221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, is difficult to treat and highly lethal. Since HCC is predominantly diagnosed in patients with cirrhosis, treatment planning must consider both the severity of liver disease and tumor burden. To minimize the impact to the patient while treating the tumor, techniques have been developed to target HCC. Anatomical targeting by surgical resection or locoregional therapies is generally reserved for patients with preserved liver function and minimal to moderate tumor burden. Patients with decompensated cirrhosis and small tumors are optimal candidates for liver transplantation, which offers the best chance of long-term survival. Yet, only 20%-30% of patients have disease amenable to anatomical targeting. For the majority of patients with advanced HCC, chemotherapy is used to target the tumor biology. Despite these treatment options, the five-year survival of patients in the United States with HCC is only 16%. In this review we provide a comprehensive overview of current approaches to target HCC. We also discuss emerging diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, novel therapeutic targets identified by recent genomic profiling studies, and potential applications of immunotherapy in the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Faltermeier
- Dumont-UCLA Transplant Center, Division of Liver and Pancreas Transplantation, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Ronald W Busuttil
- Dumont-UCLA Transplant Center, Division of Liver and Pancreas Transplantation, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Ali Zarrinpar
- Dumont-UCLA Transplant Center, Division of Liver and Pancreas Transplantation, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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116
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Burra P, Rodriguez-Castro KI. Neoplastic disease after liver transplantation: Focus on de novo neoplasms. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:8753-8768. [PMID: 26269665 PMCID: PMC4528018 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i29.8753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Revised: 05/31/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
De novo neoplasms account for almost 30% of deaths 10 years after liver transplantation and are the most common cause of mortality in patients surviving at least 1 year after transplant. The risk of malignancy is two to four times higher in transplant recipients than in an age- and sex-matched population, and cancer is expected to surpass cardiovascular complications as the primary cause of death in transplanted patients within the next 2 decades. Since exposure to immunosuppression is associated with an increased frequency of developing neoplasm, long-term immunosuppression should be therefore minimized. Promising results in the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence have been reported with the use of mTOR inhibitors including everolimus and sirolimus and the ongoing open-label prospective randomized controlled SILVER. Study will provide more information on whether sirolimus-containing vs mTOR-inhibitor-free immunosuppression is more efficacious in reducing HCC recurrence.
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117
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Bilbao I, Salcedo M, Gómez MA, Jimenez C, Castroagudín J, Fabregat J, Almohalla C, Herrero I, Cuervas-Mons V, Otero A, Rubín A, Miras M, Rodrigo J, Serrano T, Crespo G, De la Mata M, Bustamante J, Gonzalez-Dieguez ML, Moreno A, Narvaez I, Guilera M. Renal function improvement in liver transplant recipients after early everolimus conversion: A clinical practice cohort study in Spain. Liver Transpl 2015; 21:1056-65. [PMID: 25990257 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A national, multicenter, retrospective study was conducted to assess the results obtained for liver transplant recipients with conversion to everolimus in daily practice. The study included 477 recipients (481 transplantations). Indications for conversion to everolimus were renal dysfunction (32.6% of cases), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; 30.2%; prophylactic treatment for 68.9%), and de novo malignancy (29.7%). The median time from transplantation to conversion to everolimus was 68.7 months for de novo malignancy, 23.8 months for renal dysfunction, and 7.1 months for HCC and other indications. During the first year of treatment, mean everolimus trough levels were 5.4 (standard deviation [SD], 2.7) ng/mL and doses remained stable (1.5 mg/day) from the first month after conversion. An everolimus monotherapy regimen was followed by 28.5% of patients at 12 months. Patients with renal dysfunction showed a glomerular filtration rate (4-variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease) increase of 10.9 mL (baseline mean, 45.8 [SD, 25.3] versus 57.6 [SD, 27.6] mL/minute/1.73 m(2) ) at 3 months after everolimus initiation (P < 0.001), and 6.8 mL at 12 months. Improvement in renal function was higher in patients with early conversion (<1 year). Adverse events were the primary reason for discontinuation in 11.2% of cases. The probability of survival at 3 years after conversion to everolimus was 83.0%, 71.1%, and 59.5% for the renal dysfunction, de novo malignancy, and HCC groups, respectively. Everolimus is a viable option for the treatment of renal dysfunction, and earlier conversion is associated with better recovery of renal function. Prospective studies are needed to confirm advantages in patients with malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itxarone Bilbao
- Unidad de Trasplante Hepático, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Network Center for Biomedical Research in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), Universidad Autónoma Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Antonia Moreno
- Hospital Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, Tenerife, Spain
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118
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Azzam AZ. Liver transplantation as a management of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:1347-1354. [PMID: 26052380 PMCID: PMC4450198 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i10.1347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Revised: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and has a poor prognosis if untreated. It is ranked the third among the causes of cancer-related death. There are multiple etiologic factors that can lead to HCC. Screening for early HCC is challenging due to the lack of well specific biomarkers. However, early diagnosis through successful screening is very important to provide cure rate. Liver transplantation (LT) did not gain wide acceptance until the mid-1980s, after the effective immunosuppression with cyclosporine became available. Orthotopic LT is the best therapeutic option for early, unresectable HCC. It is limited by both, graft shortage and the need for appropriate patient selection. It provides both, the removal of tumor and the remaining cirrhotic liver. In Milan, a prospective cohort study defined restrictive selection criteria known as Milan criteria (MC) that led to superior survival for transplant patients in comparison with any other previous experience with transplantation or other options for HCC. When transplantation occurs within the established MC, the outcomes are similar to those for nonmalignant liver disease after transplantation. The shortage of organs from deceased donors has led to the problems of long waiting times and dropouts. This has led to the adoption of extended criteria by many centers. Several measures have been taken to solve these problems including prioritization of patients with HCC, use of pretransplant adjuvant treatment, and living donor LT.
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119
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Bodzin AS, Busuttil RW. Hepatocellular carcinoma: Advances in diagnosis, management, and long term outcome. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:1157-1167. [PMID: 26019732 PMCID: PMC4438491 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i9.1157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Revised: 12/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a common and lethal malignancy worldwide and arises in the setting of a host of diseases. The incidence continues to increase despite multiple vaccines and therapies for viruses such as the hepatitis B and C viruses. In addition, due to the growing incidence of obesity in Western society, there is anticipation that there will be a growing population with HCC due to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Due to the growing frequency of this disease, screening is recommended using ultrasound with further imaging using magnetic resonance imaging and multi-detector computed tomography used for further characterization of masses. Great advances have been made to help with the early diagnosis of small lesions leading to potential curative resection or transplantation. Resection and transplantation maybe used in a variety of patients that are carefully selected based on underlying liver disease. Using certain guidelines and clinical acumen patients may have good outcomes with either resection or transplantation however many patients are inoperable at time of presentation. Fortunately, the use of new locoregional therapies has made down staging patients a potential option making them potential surgical candidates. Despite a growing population with HCC, new advances in viral therapies, chemotherapeutics, and an expanding population of surgical and transplant candidates might all contribute to improved long-term survival of these patients.
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120
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Enhanced supersaturation and oral absorption of sirolimus using an amorphous solid dispersion based on Eudragit® e. Molecules 2015; 20:9496-509. [PMID: 26020699 PMCID: PMC6272523 DOI: 10.3390/molecules20069496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Eudragit® E/HCl (E-SD) on the degradation of sirolimus in simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2) and to develop a new oral formulation of sirolimus using E-SD solid dispersions to enhance oral bioavailability. Sirolimus-loaded solid dispersions were fabricated by a spray drying process. A kinetic solubility test demonstrated that the sirolimus/E-SD/TPGS (1/8/1) solid dispersion had a maximum solubility of 196.7 μg/mL within 0.5 h that gradually decreased to 173.4 μg/mL after 12 h. According to the dissolution study, the most suitable formulation was the sirolimus/E-SD/TPGS (1/8/1) solid dispersion in simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2), owing to enhanced stability and degree of supersaturation of E-SD and TPGS. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic studies in rats indicated that compared to the physical mixture and sirolimus/HPMC/TPGS (1/8/1) solid dispersion, the sirolimus/E-SD/TPGS (1/8/1) solid dispersion significantly improved oral absorption of sirolimus. E-SD significantly inhibited the degradation of sirolimus in a dose-dependent manner. E-SD also significantly inhibited the precipitation of sirolimus compared to hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC). Therefore, the results from the present study suggest that the sirolimus-loaded E-SD/TPGS solid dispersion has great potential in clinical applications.
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121
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Chok KSH. Management of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplant. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:1142-1148. [PMID: 26052403 PMCID: PMC4450191 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i8.1142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Revised: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the leading cause of deaths in patients with hepatitis B or C, and its incidence has increased considerably over the past decade and is still on the rise. Liver transplantation (LT) provides the best chance of cure for patients with HCC and liver cirrhosis. With the implementation of the MELD exception system for patients with HCC waitlisted for LT, the number of recipients of LT is increasing, so is the number of patients who have recurrence of HCC after LT. Treatments for intrahepatic recurrence after transplantation and after other kinds of surgery are more or less the same, but long-term cure of posttransplant recurrence is rarely seen as it is a “systemic” disease. Nonetheless, surgical resection has been shown to be effective in prolonging patient survival despite the technical difficulty in resecting graft livers. Besides surgical resection, different kinds of treatment are also in use, including transarterial chemoembolization, radiofrequency ablation, high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation, and stereotactic body radiation therapy. Targeted therapy and modulation of immunosuppressants are also adopted to treat the deadly disease.
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122
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Sommer CM, Stampfl U, Kauczor HU, Pereira PL. [National S3 guidelines on hepatocellular carcinoma]. Radiologe 2015; 54:642-53. [PMID: 25047521 DOI: 10.1007/s00117-014-2656-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CLINICAL/METHODICAL ISSUE Evidence-based therapeutic and diagnostic algorithm for hepatocellular carcinoma. STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS Ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, image-guided percutaneous biopsy, percutaneous thermal ablation and transarterial chemoembolization. METHODICAL INNOVATIONS Diagnostic and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma according to the official German interdisciplinary guidelines. PERFORMANCE The formulation of the German S3 guidelines on diagnosis and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma was performed under special consideration of quality indicators and standardized quality improvement methods. ACHIEVEMENTS In 2013 the German S3 guidelines on diagnosis and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma were published and clinically implemented as part of the nationwide guideline program in oncology of the Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft (German Cancer Society). PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS The German S3 guidelines on diagnosis and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma have to be considered as the national gold standard with the goal of optimization of patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Sommer
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Radiologische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
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123
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Guerrero-Misas M, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, De la Mata M. Strategies to improve outcome of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma receiving a liver transplantation. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:649-661. [PMID: 25866602 PMCID: PMC4388993 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i4.649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation is the only therapeutic option which allows to treat both, the hepatocellular carcinoma and the underlying liver disease. Indeed, liver transplantation is considered the standard of care for a subset of patients with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, tumour recurrence rates are as high as 20%, and once the recurrence is established the therapeutic options are scarce and with little impact on prognosis. Strategies to minimize tumour recurrence and thus to improve outcome may be classified into 3 groups: (1) An adequate selection of candidates for liver transplantation by using the Milan criteria; (2) An optimized management within waiting list including prioritization of patients at high risk of tumour progression, and the implementation of bridging therapies, particularly when the expected length within the waiting list is longer than 6 mo; and (3) Tailored immunosuppression comprising reduced exposure to calcineurin inhibitors, particularly early after liver transplantation, and the addition of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors. In the present manuscript the available scientific evidence supporting these strategies is comprehensively reviewed, and future directions are provided for novel research approaches, which may contribute to the final target: to cure more patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and with an improved long term outcome.
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124
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Mancuso A, Mazzola A, Cabibbo G, Perricone G, Enea M, Galvano A, Zavaglia C, Belli L, Cammà C. Survival of patients treated with sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after liver transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Dig Liver Dis 2015; 47:324-30. [PMID: 25641331 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2015.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2014] [Revised: 12/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on survival and safety of sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after liver transplant are still equivocal. AIM We performed a meta-analysis of published studies, with the aim of estimating the 1-year rates of survival, analysing the variability in survival rates and, finally, identifying the factors associated with a longer survival. METHODS Data from 8 of the 17 selected studies were pooled, while the other 9 were excluded because survival rates were missing. All included studies were retrospective. RESULTS Overall, the 1-year survival ranged from 18% to 90%. Tumour progression was the main cause of death. The second cause was bleeding, reported only in patients undergoing m-Tor inhibitor therapy. The pooled estimate of 1-year survival was 63%. There was a significant heterogeneity among studies (P < 0.0001). Among the 34 variables assessed by univariate meta-regression, 5 were associated with an increase in the 1-year survival rate: (1) male gender (P = 0.001); (2) Time to progression (P = 0.038); and adverse drug events, divided in (3) gastrointestinal (P = 0.038), (4) cardiovascular (P = 0.029), and (5) dermatological (P = 0.014). CONCLUSIONS Additional data from multicentre prospective studies are required to clearly determine if sorafenib is a safe and acceptable treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after liver transplant. Nevertheless, its association with m-Tor inhibitors should be discouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mancuso
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, Ospedale Niguarda Ca' Granda, Milano, Italy; Internal Medicine Department, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ad Alta Specializzazione Civico - Di Cristina - Benfratelli, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandra Mazzola
- Gastroenterology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cabibbo
- Gastroenterology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Perricone
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, Ospedale Niguarda Ca' Granda, Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Enea
- "S Vianelli" Department, University of Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Claudio Zavaglia
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, Ospedale Niguarda Ca' Granda, Milano, Italy
| | - Luca Belli
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, Ospedale Niguarda Ca' Granda, Milano, Italy
| | - Calogero Cammà
- Gastroenterology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
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125
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Wang ZY, Geng L, Zheng SS. Current strategies for preventing the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2015; 14:145-9. [PMID: 25865686 DOI: 10.1016/s1499-3872(15)60345-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation is the optimal treatment for a selected group of patients with moderate to severe cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite the strict selection of candidates, post-transplant recurrence often occurs and markedly reduces the long-term survival of patients with HCC. The present review focuses on the current strategies on preventing the recurrence of HCC after liver transplantation. DATA SOURCES Relevant articles were identified by extensive searching of PubMed using the keywords "hepatocellular carcinoma", "recurrence" and "liver transplantation" between January 1996 and January 2014. Additional papers were searched manually from the references in key articles. RESULTS The current theories of HCC recurrence after liver transplantation are: (i) the growth of pre-transplant occult metastases; (ii) the engraftment of circulating tumor cells released at the time of transplantation. Pre-transplant treatment aims to control local tumor by radiofrequency ablation, transarterial embolization and transarterial chemoembolization. The main objective during the operation is to prevent tumor cell dissemination. Post-transplant treatment includes systemic anticancer therapy, antiviral therapy, and most recently, immunotherapy. These strategies concentrate on the control of the tumor when the patients are waiting for transplant, to reduce the release of HCC cells during surgical procedures and to clear the occult HCC cells after transplantation. CONCLUSIONS Much can be done to prevent HCC recurrence after liver transplantation. In future, effort is likely to be directed towards combining multidisciplinary approaches and various treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo-Yi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health; Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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126
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Liu YY, Li CP, Huai MS, Fu XM, Cui Z, Fan LL, Zhang S, Liu Y, Ma J, Li G, Shen ZY. Comprehensive comparison of three different immunosuppressive regimens for liver transplant patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: steroid-free immunosuppression, induction immunosuppression and standard immunosuppression. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120939. [PMID: 25816221 PMCID: PMC4376790 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The different choices of immunosuppression (IS) regimens influenced the outcomes of liver transplantation. Steroid was applied as a standard IS to prevent and treat rejections. However, steroid-related complications were increasingly prominent. This study compared the efficacy and safety of standard IS regimens with the efficacy and safety of steroid-free IS regimen and induction IS regimen in Chinese liver transplantation recipients for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A total of 329 patients who underwent liver transplantation from January 2008 to December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Three different groups of patients received standard triple-drug IS regimen of steroid, tacrolimus (TAC) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) (triple-drug regimen group; n=57), induction-contained IS regimen of basiliximab, steroid, TAC and MMF (BS group; n=241), and induction-contained and steroid-free regimen of basiliximab, TAC and MMF (SF group; n=31), respectively. There were no significant differences in terms of patient, tumor-free and graft survival rates. The acute rejection rate and rejection time were equivalent in different groups. But compared with BS group, higher incidences of biliary complications (11.52% vs. 30.77%, p=0.013) and graft dysfunction (0.48% vs. 13.64%, p=0.003) were observed in SF group. Furthermore, compared with the two groups, incidence of pleural effusion was also higher in SF group (15.79%, 11.96% vs. 45.45%, respectively, both p<0.01). And a trend towards less proportion of De novo diabetes was revealed in SF group. Although it was found that patient, tumor-free and graft survival rates were equivalent among three IS regimens, higher incidences of complications were demonstrated in steroid-free regimen in patients for HCC. These findings suggested that steroid-free IS regimen has no clear advantages in comparison with standard IS regimens for liver transplant recipients with HCC and the postoperative complications should be treated with concentrated attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Liu
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi-Xiang-Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Chang-Ping Li
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi-Xiang-Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Ming-Sheng Huai
- Department of Transplantation, Tianjin First Center Hospital, 24 Fu-Kang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Xiao-Meng Fu
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi-Xiang-Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Zhuang Cui
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi-Xiang-Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Lin-Lin Fan
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi-Xiang-Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi-Xiang-Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Follow-up Center, Department of Transplantation, Tianjin First Center Hospital, 24 Fu-Kang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Jun Ma
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi-Xiang-Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Guang Li
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Medical, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi-Xiang-Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Zhong-Yang Shen
- Department of Transplantation, Tianjin First Center Hospital, 24 Fu-Kang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300192, China
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Duvoux C, Toso C. mTOR inhibitor therapy: Does it prevent HCC recurrence after liver transplantation? Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2015; 29:168-74. [PMID: 26071984 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2015.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Revised: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence after liver transplantation is a clinical priority. The importance of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in cell growth and survival makes it a logical target for antitumor strategies, as borne out by clinical data in various types of malignancy. A number of studies have indicated that the mTOR inhibitors everolimus and sirolimus suppress cell proliferation and tumor growth in animal models of HCC. Coadministration of an mTOR inhibitor could permit lower dosing of chemotherapeutic agents in HCC management, and trials in non-transplant HCC population are exploring combined used with various agents including sorafenib, the vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor bevacizumab and conventional agents. In terms of a preventive effect after liver transplantation for HCC, data from retrospective studies and non-randomized prospective analyses in which patients received an mTOR inhibitor with concomitant calcineurin inhibitor therapy have indicated that HCC recurrence rates and overall survival may be improved compared to a standard calcineurin inhibitor regimen. Meta-analyses have supported these findings, but controlled trials are required before any firm conclusions can be drawn. In two of the three randomized trials which have assessed de novo mTOR inhibitor therapy after liver transplantation, there was a numerically lower rate of HCC recurrence by one year post-transplant in patients given an mTOR inhibitor versus the control arm, but absolute numbers were low. Overall, based on the available data from retrospective studies, meta-analyses, and post-hoc assessments of randomized trials, it appears advisable to consider mTOR inhibition-based immunosuppression after transplantation for HCC, particularly in patients who exceed the Milan criteria. Prospective data are awaited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Duvoux
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplant Unit Henri Mondor Hospital, Paris Est University (UPEC), 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Créteil, France; Division of Abdominal and Transplantation Surgery, Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Christian Toso
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplant Unit Henri Mondor Hospital, Paris Est University (UPEC), 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Créteil, France; Division of Abdominal and Transplantation Surgery, Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
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128
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Shah M, Shankar A, Gee I, Nash K, Hoare M, Gibbs P, Davies S, Alexander GJM. A retrospective 15-year review: survival advantage after switching to sirolimus in hepatitis C virus infected liver graft recipients. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2015; 41:379-92. [PMID: 25496225 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of sirolimus-based immune suppression in liver transplantation, particularly in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected recipients, remains contentious. There is some evidence that sirolimus retards hepatic fibrosis, is renal sparing and may be of benefit in preventing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence. Sirolimus has not been adopted by many transplant centres because of persistent concerns regarding an increased risk of hepatic artery thrombosis, graft loss and death with de novo sirolimus. AIM To review the impact of switching to sirolimus monotherapy in HCV-infected liver recipients with respect to survival, graft loss and hepatic fibrosis. METHODS A retrospective review of 190 patients from a single centre undergoing first liver transplantation for HCV over 15 years. 113 patients were switched from calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-based therapy to low-dose sirolimus monotherapy at a median of 15 months after transplantation for HCV-related fibrosis (72%), renal impairment (14%) or high-risk HCC (5%). RESULTS Patients switched to sirolimus had improved survival (P < 0.001) and slower progression to cirrhosis (P = 0.001). In patients with HCC (n = 91), sirolimus duration rather than strategy was an independent predictor of survival (P = 0.001) and extended time to HCC recurrence (33 vs. 16 months). Patients switched for renal dysfunction showed improvement in serum creatinine (140-108 μmol/L, P = 0.001). Those remaining on CNI-therapy were more likely to develop post-transplant diabetes (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION These data suggest selective switching to low-dose sirolimus monotherapy in HCV-positive liver recipients improves clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
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129
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Li H, Wang S, Wang G, Zhang Z, Wu X, Zhang T, Fu B, Chen G. Yes-associated protein expression is a predictive marker for recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. Dig Surg 2015; 31:468-78. [PMID: 25632982 DOI: 10.1159/000370252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the expression of Yes-associated protein (YAP) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, and assess its prognostic value to recurrence of HCC after liver transplantation (LT). METHODS Collected data of 105 consecutive patients undergoing LT for HCC were analyzed retrospectively. The immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of YAP, Mst1, Lats1/2, pYAP, pLats1/2 and pMst1/2 in tumor tissues. Contingency table and χ(2)-test were used to investigate the correlation between expression of YAP, Mst1, Lats1/2 and clinical characteristics. Univariate survival analysis and Multivariate Cox regression analysis were also performed to analyze the correlation of clinical and pathological factors with tumor recurrence after LT. The Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to analyze HCC-specific disease-free survival (DFS) rate. RESULTS Forty patients fulfilled Milan criteria with 1-, 2-, 3- and 5-years DFS of 86.7, 84.6, 84, 84%, respectively. The positive rates of YAP, Lats1/2, Mst1 in HCC were 51.4, 45.7, 64.8%, respectively. YAP expression in HCC tumors was significantly associated with tumor size (p = 0.041), venous infiltration (p = 0.002), AJCC tumor stage (p = 0.027). Lats1/2 expression was significantly associated with tumor size (p = 0.001) and AJCC tumor stage (p = 0.019). Mst1 expression was also significantly associated with tumor size (p = 0.042). HCC-specific DFS was significantly longer for patients with YAP negative expression compared with patients with YAP positive expression (1-, 2-, 3- and 5-years DFS of 71.7, 65.3, 65.3, 65.3 vs. 42.5, 36.6, 32.5, 30.4%, respectively, log-rank = 12.89, p < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that YAP expression (HR = 2.011, p = 0.020) in HCC was an independent prognostic factor for HCC-specific DFS after liver transplantation. CONCLUSIONS YAP is an independent prognostic marker for tumor recurrence for HCC patients after liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Li
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou,Guangdong, PR China
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Huang W, Zhao F, Huang Y, Li X, Zhu S, Hu Q, Chen W. Rapamycin enhances HBV production by inducing cellular autophagy. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2014; 14:e20719. [PMID: 25419217 PMCID: PMC4238155 DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.20719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Revised: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some reports revealed that rapamycin could reactivate HBV infection. However, the mechanism has not been clearly explained. OBJECTIVES In this report, we studied the mechanism by which rapamycin enhances HBV replication and expression by inducing cellular autophagy. MATERIALS AND METHODS HepG2.2.15 cells were treated with rapamycin to induce autophagy. Autophagosomes were observed by fluorescence microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Autophagy marker protein LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰwas detected by Western blotting. HBV DNA and mRNA were determined by real time PCR and Southern blotting. HBsAg was evaluated by ELISA. RESULTS In HepG2.2.15 cells, HBV DNA and HBsAg increased when host cells were treated with rapamycin and the effect was reversed by autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine (3-MA). CONCLUSIONS These results indicated a potential explanation for reactivation of HBV infection when patients with hepatitis receive rapamycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated to the Second Hospital Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fengrong Zhao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Youyang People’s Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Affiliated to the Second Hospital Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated to the Second Hospital Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Sufei Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated to the Second Hospital Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated to the Second Hospital Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weixian Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated to the Second Hospital Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Corresponding Author: Weixian Chen, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated to the Second Hospital Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China. Tel: +86-2363703244; Fax: +86-2363703244, E-mail:
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Autophagy and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:120179. [PMID: 25295245 PMCID: PMC4175790 DOI: 10.1155/2014/120179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy, or cellular self-digestion, is a catabolic process that targets cell constituents including damaged organelles, unfolded proteins, and intracellular pathogens to lysosomes for degradation. Autophagy is crucial for development, differentiation, survival, and homeostasis. Important links between the regulation of autophagy and liver complications associated with obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), have been reported. The spectrum of these hepatic abnormalities extends from isolated steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), steatofibrosis, which sometimes leads to cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD is one of the three main causes of cirrhosis and increases the risk of liver-related death and hepatocellular carcinoma. The pathophysiological mechanisms of the progression of a normal liver to steatosis and then more severe disease are complex and still unclear. The regulation of the autophagic flux, a dynamic response, and the knowledge of the role of autophagy in specific cells including hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, immune cells, and hepatic cancer cells have been extensively studied these last years. This review will provide insight into the current understanding of autophagy and its role in the evolution of the hepatic complications associated with obesity, from steatosis to hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Management of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2014; 141:861-76. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-014-1806-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Cholongitas E, Mamou C, Rodríguez-Castro KI, Burra P. Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors are associated with lower rates of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after liver transplantation: a systematic review. Transpl Int 2014; 27:1039-49. [PMID: 24943720 DOI: 10.1111/tri.12372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Revised: 04/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) have been associated in a dose-dependent fashion with an increased risk of post-transplant hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence. The mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) (sirolimus/everolimus) might represent an alternative immunosuppressive regimen with antineoplastic effect. In the present systematic review, the association between mTORi and HCC recurrence after liver transplantation (LT) was evaluated and compared against that of CNIs-treated patients. In total, 3666 HCC liver transplant recipients from 42 studies met the inclusion criteria. Patients under CNIs developed HCC recurrence significantly more frequently, compared with patients under mTORi (448/3227 or 13.8% vs. 35/439 or 8%, P < 0.001), although patients treated with CNIs had a higher proportion of HCC within Milan criteria (74% vs. 69%) and lower rates of microvascular invasion, compared with mTORi-treated patients (22% vs. 44%) (P < 0.05). Patients on everolimus had significantly lower recurrence rates of HCC, compared with those on sirolimus or CNIs (4.1% vs. 10.5% vs. 13.8%, respectively, P < 0.05), but everolimus-treated recipients had shorter follow-up period (13 vs. 30 vs. 43.2 months, respectively) and more frequently been transplanted for HCC within Milan criteria (84% vs. 60.5% vs. 74%, respectively, P < 0.05). Our findings favor the use of mTORi instead of CNIs to control HCC recurrence after LT, but comparative studies with longer follow-up are needed for final conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Cholongitas
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School of Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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134
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Lee JY, Kim YH, Yi NJ, Kim HS, Lee HS, Lee BK, Kim H, Choi YR, Hong G, Lee KW, Suh KS. Impact of immunosuppressant therapy on early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. Clin Mol Hepatol 2014; 20:192-203. [PMID: 25032186 PMCID: PMC4099335 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2014.20.2.192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Revised: 06/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The most commonly used immunosuppressant therapy after liver transplantation (LT) is a combination of tacrolimus and steroid. Basiliximab induction has recently been introduced; however, the most appropriate immunosuppression for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients after LT is still debated. METHODS Ninety-three LT recipients with HCC who took tacrolimus and steroids as major immunosuppressants were included. Induction with basiliximab was implemented in 43 patients (46.2%). Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) was added to reduce the tacrolimus dosage (n=28, 30.1%). The 1-year tacrolimus exposure level was 7.2 ± 1.3 ng/mL (mean ± SD). RESULTS The 1- and 3-year recurrence rates of HCC were 12.9% and 19.4%, respectively. Tacrolimus exposure, cumulative steroid dosages, and MMF dosages had no impact on HCC recurrence. Induction therapy with basiliximab, high alpha fetoprotein (AFP; >400 ng/mL) and protein induced by vitamin K absence/antagonist-II (PIVKA-II; >100 mAU/mL) levels, and microvascular invasion were significant risk factors for 1-year recurrence (P<0.05). High AFP and PIVKA-II levels, and positive (18)fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose positron-emission tomography findings were significantly associated with 3-year recurrence (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Induction therapy with basiliximab, a strong immunosuppressant, may have a negative impact with respect to early HCC recurrence (i.e., within 1 year) in high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Yeun Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. ; College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Yul Hee Kim
- Ewha Graduate School of Clinical Health Sciences, Ewha Women's University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Nam-Joon Yi
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyang Sook Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Suk Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byung Koo Lee
- Ewha Graduate School of Clinical Health Sciences, Ewha Women's University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyeyoung Kim
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Rok Choi
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Geun Hong
- Department of Surgery, Ewha Women's University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang-Woong Lee
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung-Suk Suh
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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135
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Byam J, Renz J, Millis JM. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatobiliary Surg Nutr 2014; 2:22-30. [PMID: 24570911 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2304-3881.2012.11.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2012] [Accepted: 11/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary tumor of the liver and is considered an aggressive tumor with mean survival estimated between 6 and 20 months. Hepatitis B and C are the most common etiologies. Pathological, laboratory and radiologic imaging all aid in diagnosis but much controversy exists in the utilization of any given modality. Many treatment options exist for management of HCC, each has its own limitation. Liver transplantation offers the most reasonable expectation for curative treatment while simultaneously removing the burden of the diseased liver. Still, advancements in the field have thus far not yet matched its potential, although new immunosuppressive and chemotherapy regimen may allow transplantation to push the envelope once again.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome Byam
- Department of Transplantation, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - John Renz
- Department of Transplantation, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - J Michael Millis
- Department of Transplantation, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Fernández-Yunquera A, Ripoll C, Bañares R, Puerto M, Rincón D, Yepes I, Catalina V, Salcedo M. Everolimus immunosuppression reduces the serum expression of fibrosis markers in liver transplant recipients. World J Transplant 2014; 4:133-140. [PMID: 25032102 PMCID: PMC4094948 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v4.i2.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To evaluate the expression of serum fibrosis markers in liver transplantation (LT) recipients on everolimus monotherapy compared to patients on an anti-calcineurin regimen.
METHODS: This cross-sectional case-control study included LT patients on everolimus monotherapy (cases) (E) (n = 30) and matched controls on an anti-calcineurin regimen (calcineurin inhibitors, CNI), paired by etiology of liver disease and time since LT (n = 30). Clinical characteristics, blood tests and elastography were collected. Serum levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), angiopoietin-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), platelet derived growth factor, amino-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen (PIIINP), hyaluronic acid (HA), VCM-1 (ng/mL), interleukin (IL)-10, interferon-inducible protein 10 (IP-10), vascular endothelial growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) (pg/mL) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Expression of these markers between E and CNI was compared. Stratified analysis was done according to factors that may influence liver fibrosis. Variables are described with medians (interquartillic range) or percentages.
RESULTS: A total of 60 patients [age: 59 (49-64), hepatitis C virus (HCV): n = 21 (35%), time from LT: 73 mo (16-105)] were included. Patients had been on everolimus for a median of 15 mo. No differences in inflammatory activity, APRI test or liver elastography were found between the groups. No significant differences were observed between the groups in serum levels of PIIINP, metalloproteinase type = 1, angiopoietin, HGF, IP-10, TNF-α, IL-10 and vascular cell adhesion molecule. Patients on E had a lower expression of TGF-β [E: 12.7 (3.7-133.6), CNI: 152.5 (14.4-333.2), P = 0.009] and HA [E: 702.89 (329.4-838.2), CNI: 1513.6 (691.9-1951.4), P = 0.001] than those on CNI. This difference was maintained in the stratified analysis when recipient age is more than 50 years (TFG-β1: P = 0.06; HA: P = 0.005), in patients without active neoplasia (TFG-β1, P = 0.009; HA: P = 0.01), according to time since LT (> than 5 years, TFG-β1: P = 0.001; HA: P = 0.002), related to previous history of biliary complications (HA: P = 0.01) and HCV recurrence (HA: P = 0.004). Liver transplant recipients with everolimus monotherapy had less serum expression of TGF-β y HA than matched patients with anti-calcineurins. This difference remains when classifying patients according to donor age and time since LT. Due to the small sample size, when examining patients with a prior history of biliary complications or recurrent HCV, the difference was non-significant but trends towards the lower expression of TFG-β1 in the everolimus group. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays a role in the transformation of quiescent hepatocellular stellate cell to their active profibrotic state, and experimental models have demonstrated the potential activity of mTOR inhibition in attenuating fibrogenesis.
CONCLUSION: This study supports a possible role of everolimus in liver fibrosis modulation after LT in a clinical setting and suggests that tailoring immunosuppression could avoid fibrosis progression in the allograft.
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137
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Chung H, Chapman WC. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: how far have we come and what is the future? Hepat Oncol 2014; 1:309-321. [DOI: 10.2217/hep.14.8] [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] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY: Liver transplantation is the best treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma in the setting of chronic liver disease, completely removing malignancy and underlying diseased liver tissue. Technical aspects of liver transplantation have improved over the years, along with outcomes. But challenges continue in the areas of expanding existing indications for transplant with limited organ supply, calling for optimization of patient selection and the development of alternative or adjunctive treatment options. Expansion of existing transplant criteria will help identify patients most likely to have good outcomes. Locoregional and systemic treatments showing therapeutic promise are being investigated for use in achieving acceptable oncologic effect. Improvements in post-transplant treatment and continued attempts to enlarge the donor pool will continue to provide avenues for further improvements in outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haniee Chung
- Washington University in St Louis, 660 S Euclid Avenue, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - William C Chapman
- Washington University in St Louis, 660 S Euclid Avenue, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
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138
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Long-term survival of liver transplant recipients is threatened by increased rates of de-novo malignancy and recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), both events tightly related to immunosuppression. RECENT FINDINGS There is accumulating evidence linking increased exposure to immunosuppressants and carcinogenesis, particularly concerning calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs), azathioprine and antilymphocyte agents. A recent study including 219 HCC transplanted patients showed that HCC recurrence rates were halved if a minimization of CNIs was applied within the first month after liver transplant. With mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors as approved immunosuppressants for liver transplant patients, pooled data from several retrospective studies have suggested their possible benefit for reducing HCC recurrence. SUMMARY Randomized controlled trials with sufficiently long follow-up are needed to evaluate the influence of different immunosuppression protocols in preventing malignancy after LT. Currently, early minimization of CNIs with or without mTOR inhibitors or mycophenolate seems a rational strategy for patients with risk factors for de-novo malignancy or recurrence of HCC after liver transplant. A deeper understanding of the immunological pathways of rejection and cancer would allow for designing more specific and safer drugs, and thus to prevent cancer after liver transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Rodríguez-Perálvarez
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation. Reina Sofía University Hospital, IMIBIC, CIBERehd, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Manuel De la Mata
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation. Reina Sofía University Hospital, IMIBIC, CIBERehd, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Andrew K. Burroughs
- The Royal Free Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre and Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, UCL, London, United Kingdom
- Deceased
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Kang SH, Hwang S, Ha TY, Song GW, Jung DH, Kim KH, Ahn CS, Moon DB, Park GC, Jung BH, Yoon YI, Lee SG. Tailored long-term immunosuppressive regimen for adult liver transplant recipients with hepatocellular carcinoma. KOREAN JOURNAL OF HEPATO-BILIARY-PANCREATIC SURGERY 2014; 18:48-51. [PMID: 26155248 PMCID: PMC4492313 DOI: 10.14701/kjhbps.2014.18.2.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2014] [Revised: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/18/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Backgrounds/Aims There are few guidelines for tailored immunosuppressive regimens for liver transplantation (LT) recipients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To establish long-term immunosuppressive regimens suitable for Korean adult LT recipients, we analyzed those that were currently in use at a single high-volume institution. Methods This cross-sectional study comprises three parts including review of the immunosuppressive regimens used to manage 2,147 adult LT outpatients, review of LT recipients who were diagnosed of HCC at LT, and review of LT recipients who suffered from HCC recurrence. Results In 1,000 adult LT recipients who were living more than 5 years with no adverse events, 916 received a calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-based therapy (CNI only in 520; CNI with mycophenolate mofetil [MMF] in 396) and 84 were receiving an MMF-based therapy (MMF only in 45; MMF with minimal CNI in 39). Tacrolimus was preferred over cyclosporine for both monotherapy and combination therapy along the passage of posttransplant period. There was no difference in selection of immunosuppressants, target blood concentration, and rate of combination therapy between LT recipients with and without HCC, except for the first 1 year. Sirolimus-based regimens were applied in 21 patients who showed HCC recurrence. Sorafenib was often used after conversion to sirolimus. Conclusions Tailored immunosuppressive regimen covering the long-term posttransplant period should be established after consideration of individualized patient profiles including HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Hwa Kang
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shin Hwang
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae-Yong Ha
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gi-Won Song
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong-Hwan Jung
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki-Hun Kim
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chul-Soo Ahn
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Deok-Bog Moon
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gil-Chun Park
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bo-Hyun Jung
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-In Yoon
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Gyu Lee
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Kornberg A. Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma beyond Milan Criteria: Multidisciplinary Approach to Improve Outcome. ISRN HEPATOLOGY 2014; 2014:706945. [PMID: 27335840 PMCID: PMC4890913 DOI: 10.1155/2014/706945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The implementation of the Milan criteria (MC) in 1996 has dramatically improved prognosis after liver transplantation (LT) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver transplantation has, thereby, become the standard therapy for patients with "early-stage" HCC on liver cirrhosis. The MC were consequently adopted by United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) and Eurotransplant for prioritization of patients with HCC. Recent advancements in the knowledge about tumor biology, radiographic imaging techniques, locoregional interventional treatments, and immunosuppressive medications have raised a critical discussion, if the MC might be too restrictive and unjustified keeping away many patients from potentially curative LT. Numerous transplant groups have, therefore, increasingly focussed on a stepwise expansion of selection criteria, mainly based on tumor macromorphology, such as size and number of HCC nodules. Against the background of a dramatic shortage of donor organs, however, simple expansion of tumor macromorphology may not be appropriate to create a safe extended criteria system. In contrast, rather the implementation of reliable prognostic parameters of tumor biology into selection process prior to LT is mandatory. Furthermore, a multidisciplinary approach of pre-, peri-, and posttransplant modulating of the tumor and/or the patient has to be established for improving prognosis in this special subset of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Kornberg
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Ismaningerstraße 22, D-81675 Munich, Germany
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141
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Chen K, Man K, Metselaar HJ, Janssen HLA, Peppelenbosch MP, Pan Q. Rationale of personalized immunosuppressive medication for hepatocellular carcinoma patients after liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 2014; 20:261-9. [PMID: 24376158 DOI: 10.1002/lt.23806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation is the only potentially curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that is not eligible for surgical resection. However, disease recurrence is the main challenge to the success of this treatment. Immunosuppressants that are universally used after transplantation to prevent graft rejection could potentially have a significant impact on HCC recurrence. Nevertheless, current research is exclusively focused on mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, which are thought to be the only class of immunosuppressive agents that can reduce HCC recurrence. In fact, substantial evidence from the bench to the bedside indicates that other classes of immunosuppressants may also exert diverse effects; for example, inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase inhibitors potentially have antitumor effects. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential effects of different types of immunosuppressants on HCC recurrence and their mechanisms of action from both experimental and clinical perspectives. To ultimately improve the outcomes of HCC patients after transplantation, we propose a concept and approaches for developing personalized immunosuppressive medication to be used either as immunosuppression maintenance or during the prevention/treatment of HCC recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kan Chen
- Bio-X Center, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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142
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Wang Z, Han W, Sui X, Fang Y, Pan H. Autophagy: A novel therapeutic target for hepatocarcinoma (Review). Oncol Lett 2014; 7:1345-1351. [PMID: 24765136 PMCID: PMC3997714 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2014.1916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a highly conserved intracellular degradation process and plays an important role in hepatocarcinogenesis. Available data show that autophagy is involved in anti-hepatocarcinoma (HCC) therapies. Autophagy regulation involves a novel target for overcoming therapeutic resistance and sensitizing HCC to currently therapeutic methods. This is a systematic review on the interface of autophagy and the development of HCC and outlining the role of autophagy in current anti-HCC approaches. Understanding the significance of autophagy in anti-HCC therapy may offer a novel therapeutic target for improving anti-cancer efficacy and prolong survival for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanggui Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
| | - Weidong Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
| | - Xinbing Sui
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
| | - Yong Fang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
| | - Hongming Pan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, P.R. China
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143
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Klintmalm GB, Nashan B. The Role of mTOR Inhibitors in Liver Transplantation: Reviewing the Evidence. J Transplant 2014; 2014:845438. [PMID: 24719752 PMCID: PMC3955586 DOI: 10.1155/2014/845438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2013] [Revised: 09/20/2013] [Accepted: 09/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the success of liver transplantation, long-term complications remain, including de novo malignancies, metabolic syndrome, and the recurrence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The current mainstay of treatment, calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs), can also worsen posttransplant renal dysfunction, neurotoxicity, and diabetes. Clearly there is a need for better immunosuppressive agents that maintain similar rates of efficacy and renal function whilst minimizing adverse effects. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors with a mechanism of action that is different from other immunosuppressive agents has the potential to address some of these issues. In this review we surveyed the literature for reports of the use of mTOR inhibitors in adult liver transplantation with respect to renal function, efficacy, safety, neurological symptoms, de novo tumors, and the recurrence of HCC and HCV. The results of our review indicate that mTOR inhibitors are associated with efficacy comparable to CNIs while having benefits on renal function in liver transplantation. We also consider newer dosing schedules that may limit side effects. Finally, we discuss evidence that mTOR inhibitors may have benefits in the oncology setting and in relation to HCV-related allograft fibrosis, metabolic syndrome, and neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran B. Klintmalm
- Baylor Simmons Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, 3410 Worth Street, Suite 950, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
| | - Björn Nashan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Visceral Transplantation, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Martinistraβe 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Müller V, Förtsch T, Gündel M, Croner RS, Langheinrich M, Yedibela S, Lohmüller C, Küffner M, Hohenberger W, Perrakis A. Long-term outcome of liver transplantation as treatment modality in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhosis: a single-center experience. Transplant Proc 2014; 45:1957-60. [PMID: 23769082 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2013.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most frequent malignant diseases worldwide. In the vast majority of cases, it is associated with liver cirrhosis. Liver transplantation (OLT) is potentially the gold standard treatment for patients suffering HCC in cirrhosis, because of synchronous eradication of HCC and of the underlying hepatic disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term outcomes of OLT in HCC patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS Between January 2000 and December 2011, 43 patients who were diagnosed with HCC in liver cirrhosis and underwent OLT in our department, were identified from a prospective database. All patients received their grafts from deceased donors. We analyzed demographic data, laboratory values, number and size of lesions, primary liver disease, diagnostic methods, bridging therapy modalities, and postoperative outcomes, including complications, recurrences, and their treatment. RESULTS Patient follow-up as of January 2012 or to death ranged from 0 to 138 months (median, 59; mean, 63). None of the patients were lost to follow-up. The gender bias was 85%:15% (male:female) and the median age, 57.8 years (range, 44-69). The most common underlying diseases for cirrhosis and HCC were alcoholic (n = 12) and hepatitis C (n = 16). Thirty-one subjects underwent bridging therapy through transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), and/or radiofrequency ablation. All patients underwent OLT within the Milan criteria according to the preoperative evaluation and histopathologic examination of the explanted liver. Twenty-one of them suffered postoperative complications (48.8%). HCC recurrence, which occurred in 5 (10.4%), was treated by surgery (n = 3), systemic chemotherapy with sorafenib (n = 1), or TACE (n = 1). CONCLUSIONS OLT for HCC in cirrhosis, displays a relatively high complication rate. It shows good survivals with and low recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Müller
- Department of Surgery, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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145
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Zhang Y, Shi ZL, Yang X, Yin ZF. Targeting of circulating hepatocellular carcinoma cells to prevent postoperative recurrence and metastasis. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:142-7. [PMID: 24415867 PMCID: PMC3886003 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i1.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Revised: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 11/28/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, the main treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) involves the surgical removal of tumors or liver transplantation. However, these treatments are often not completely curative, as they are associated with a risk for postoperative recurrence and metastasis. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are increasingly recognized as the main source for recurrence and metastasis after radical hepatectomies are performed. Many studies have demonstrated the association between the presence of either pre- or postoperative CTCs and an increased risk for HCC recurrence. To improve the therapeutic outcome of HCC, a personalized, comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach should be considered, involving the application of appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures targeting HCC CTCs in different stages throughout the course of treatment. This article proposes some HCC CTC-based strategies for the treatment of HCC, including the monitoring of HCC CTCs before, during and after radical hepatectomy, therapeutic targeting of HCC CTCs, prevention of the generation and colonization of CTCs, as well as the use of CTC indexes for the selection of indications, prediction of prognoses, and planning of individualized therapeutic regimens. Innovation and technological development of therapies targeting CTCs, as well as their translation into clinical practice, will help to effectively reduce postoperative recurrence and metastasis, and significantly prolong the survival of HCC patients.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/adverse effects
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/mortality
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/secondary
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/surgery
- Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
- Hepatectomy/adverse effects
- Hepatectomy/mortality
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/mortality
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/surgery
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/prevention & control
- Neoplastic Cells, Circulating/drug effects
- Neoplastic Cells, Circulating/metabolism
- Neoplastic Cells, Circulating/pathology
- Treatment Outcome
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146
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Cescon M, Bertuzzo VR, Ercolani G, Ravaioli M, Odaldi F, Pinna AD. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: Role of inflammatory and immunological state on recurrence and prognosis. World J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:9174-9182. [PMID: 24409045 PMCID: PMC3882391 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i48.9174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Criteria for liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and post-LT indicators of prognosis are historically based on the measurement of the tumor mass. Recently, high throughput technologies have increased the prediction of recurrence, but these tools are not yet routinely available. The interaction between HCC and the immune system has revealed an imbalance of lymphocyte phenotypes in the peritumoral tissue, and the increase of regulatory T cells with respect to cytotoxic lymphocytes has been linked to a higher rate of post-LT HCC recurrence. Moreover, some inflammatory markers have shown good reliability in predicting cancer reappearance after surgery, as a result of either a systemic inflammatory response or a decreased capacity of the organism to control the tumor growth. Among these markers, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio appears to be the most promising and easily available serum parameter able to predict HCC recurrence after LT and following other types of treatment, although the exact mechanisms determining its elevation have not been clarified. Post-LT immunosuppression may impact on cancer control, and the exposure to high levels of calcineurin inhibitors or other immunusuppressants has recently emerged as a negative prognostic factor for HCC recurrence and patient survival. Despite the absence of prospective randomized trials, inhibitors of the mammalian target of rapamycin have been shown to be associated with lower rates of tumor recurrence compared to other immunosuppressors, suggesting their use especially in patients with HCC exceeding the conventional indication criteria for LT.
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147
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Cholongitas Ε, Goulis I, Theocharidou E, Antoniadis N, Fouzas I, Giakoustidis D, Imvrios G, Giouleme O, Papanikolaou V, Akriviadis E, Vasiliadis T. Everolimus-based immunosuppression in liver transplant recipients: a single-centre experience. Hepatol Int 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s12072-013-9492-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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148
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Roh YN, David Kwon CH, Song S, Shin M, Man Kim J, Kim S, Joh JW, Lee SK. The prognosis and treatment outcomes of patients with recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. Clin Transplant 2013; 28:141-8. [PMID: 24372624 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.12286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is performed in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but recurrent HCC after LT remains a problem. We retrospectively reviewed the data from 63 patients with recurrent HCC who underwent LT at a single institution between September 1996 and March 2011 to determine the prognosis of patients with recurrent HCC after LT. A survival analysis was performed with the preoperative data, histological findings, patterns of recurrence, and treatment methods. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with early (<1 yr) cancer-related death. The independent prognostic factors, according to the multivariate analysis, were recurrence within six months (hazards ratio [HR] = 4.557, p = 0.021) and initial multiple-organ involvement (HR = 5.494, p = 0.015). The survival rates of patients differed according to the treatment type. The combined treatment with local and systemic treatment resulted in increased survival even in patients with HCC recurrences involving multiple organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Nam Roh
- Department of Surgery, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Goyang, Korea
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149
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Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Tsochatzis E, Naveas MC, Pieri G, García-Caparrós C, O'Beirne J, Poyato-González A, Ferrín-Sánchez G, Montero-Álvarez JL, Patch D, Thorburn D, Briceño J, De la Mata M, Burroughs AK. Reduced exposure to calcineurin inhibitors early after liver transplantation prevents recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatol 2013; 59:1193-9. [PMID: 23867318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Revised: 06/14/2013] [Accepted: 07/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major complication after liver transplantation (LT). The initial immunosuppression protocol may influence HCC recurrence, but the optimal regimen is still unknown. METHODS 219 HCC consecutive patients under Milan criteria, who received an LT at 2 European centres between 2000 and 2010, were included. Median follow-up was 51 months (IQR 26-93). Demographic characteristics, HCC features, and immunosuppression protocol within the first month after LT were evaluated against HCC recurrence by using Cox regression. RESULTS In the explanted liver, 110 patients (50%) had multinodular HCC, and largest nodule diameter was 3±2.1cm. Macrovascular invasion was incidentally detected in 11 patients (5%), and microvascular invasion was present in 41 patients (18.7%). HCC recurrence rates were 13.3% at 3 years and 17.6% at 5 years. HCC recurrence was not influenced by the use/non-use of steroids and antimetabolites (p=0.69 and p=0.70 respectively), and was similar with tacrolimus or cyclosporine (p=0.25). Higher exposure to calcineurin inhibitors within the first month after LT (mean tacrolimus trough concentrations >10ng/ml or cyclosporine trough concentrations >300ng/ml), but not thereafter, was associated with increased risk of HCC recurrence (27.7% vs. 14.7% at 5 years; p=0.007). The independent predictors of HCC recurrence by multivariate analysis were: high exposure to calcineurin inhibitors defined as above (RR=2.82; p=0.005), diameter of the largest nodule (RR=1.31; p<0.001), microvascular invasion (RR=2.98; p=0.003) and macrovascular invasion (RR=4.57; p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Immunosuppression protocols with early CNI minimization should be preferred in LT patients with HCC in order to minimize tumour recurrence.
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