1
|
Lombardo D, Franzè MS, Caminiti G, Pollicino T. Hepatitis Delta Virus and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pathogens 2024; 13:362. [PMID: 38787214 PMCID: PMC11124437 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13050362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a compact, enveloped, circular RNA virus that relies on hepatitis B virus (HBV) envelope proteins to initiate a primary infection in hepatocytes, assemble, and secrete new virions. Globally, HDV infection affects an estimated 12 million to 72 million people, carrying a significantly elevated risk of developing cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared to an HBV mono-infection. Furthermore, HDV-associated HCC often manifests at a younger age and exhibits more aggressive characteristics. The intricate mechanisms driving the synergistic carcinogenicity of the HDV and HBV are not fully elucidated but are believed to involve chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and the direct oncogenic effects of the HDV. Indeed, recent data highlight that the molecular profile of HCC associated with HDV is unique and distinct from that of HBV-induced HCC. However, the question of whether the HDV is an oncogenic virus remains unanswered. In this review, we comprehensively examined several crucial aspects of the HDV, encompassing its epidemiology, molecular biology, immunology, and the associated risks of liver disease progression and HCC development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Teresa Pollicino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (D.L.); (M.S.F.); (G.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Thiyagarajah K, Basic M, Hildt E. Cellular Factors Involved in the Hepatitis D Virus Life Cycle. Viruses 2023; 15:1687. [PMID: 37632029 PMCID: PMC10459925 DOI: 10.3390/v15081687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus with a negative-strand RNA genome encompassing less than 1700 nucleotides. The HDV genome encodes only for one protein, the hepatitis delta antigen (HDAg), which exists in two forms acting as nucleoproteins. HDV depends on the envelope proteins of the hepatitis B virus as a helper virus for packaging its ribonucleoprotein complex (RNP). HDV is considered the causative agent for the most severe form of viral hepatitis leading to liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Many steps of the life cycle of HDV are still enigmatic. This review gives an overview of the complete life cycle of HDV and identifies gaps in knowledge. The focus is on the description of cellular factors being involved in the life cycle of HDV and the deregulation of cellular pathways by HDV with respect to their relevance for viral replication, morphogenesis and HDV-associated pathogenesis. Moreover, recent progress in antiviral strategies targeting cellular structures is summarized in this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eberhard Hildt
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, Department of Virology, D-63225 Langen, Germany; (K.T.); (M.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Papatheodoridi A, Papatheodoridis G. Hepatocellular carcinoma: The virus or the liver? Liver Int 2023; 43 Suppl 1:22-30. [PMID: 35319167 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a major public health problem being one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hepatitis B (HBV) and C viruses have been classified as oncoviruses and are responsible for the majority of HCC cases, while the role of hepatitis D virus (HDV) in liver carcinogenesis has not been elucidated. HDV/HBV coinfection is related to more severe liver damage than HBV mono-infection and recent studies suggest that HDV/HBV patients are at increased risk of developing HCC compared to HBV mono-infected patients. HBV is known to promote hepatocarcinogenesis via DNA integration into host DNA, disruption of molecular pathways by regulatory HBV x (HBx) protein and excessive oxidative stress. Recently, several molecular mechanisms have been proposed to clarify the pathogenesis of HDV-related HCC including activation of signalling pathways by specific HDV antigens, epigenetic dysregulation and altered gene expression. Alongside, ongoing chronic inflammation and impaired immune responses have also been suggested to facilitate carcinogenesis. Finally, cellular senescence seems to play an important role in chronic viral infection and inflammation leading to hepatocarcinogenesis. In this review, we summarize the current literature on the impact of HDV in HCC development and discuss the potential interplay between HBV, HDV and neighbouring liver tissue in liver carcinogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alkistis Papatheodoridi
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Medical School of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Alexandra" General Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Papatheodoridis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Medical School of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Health Sciences, General Hospital of Athens "Laiko", Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Costante F, Stella L, Santopaolo F, Gasbarrini A, Pompili M, Asselah T, Ponziani FR. Molecular and Clinical Features of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with HBV-HDV Infection. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:713-724. [PMID: 37128594 PMCID: PMC10148646 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s384751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection affects more than 10 million people worldwide, with an estimated prevalence of nearly 4.5% among HBsAg-positive individuals. Epidemiological studies have shown a significant increase in the prevalence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic HDV infection compared to those with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) mono-infection. Despite the clinical findings, data on molecular oncogenic mechanisms are limited and fragmentary. Moreover, the role of HDV in promoting the development of HCC has so far been controversial, because it is difficult to weigh the respective contributions of the two viruses. In this review, we focused on the direct oncogenic action of HDV, its role in modifying the tumor microenvironment, and the genetic signature of HDV-related HCC, comparing these features with HBV-related HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Costante
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology - Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Leonardo Stella
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology - Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Francesco Santopaolo
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology - Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, 00168, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University, Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology - Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, 00168, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University, Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology - Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, 00168, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University, Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Tarik Asselah
- Service d’Hépatologie, Hôpital Beaujon UMR 1149 Inserm - Université de Paris, Clichy, France
| | - Francesca Romana Ponziani
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology - Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, 00168, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University, Rome, 00168, Italy
- Correspondence: Francesca Romana Ponziani; Federico Costante, Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology - Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Francesco Vito 1, Rome, 00168, Italy, Tel +390630156264, Email ;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wu S, Yi W, Gao Y, Deng W, Bi X, Lin Y, Yang L, Lu Y, Liu R, Chang M, Shen G, Hu L, Zhang L, Li M, Xie Y. Immune Mechanisms Underlying Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Seroclearance in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients With Viral Coinfection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:893512. [PMID: 35634301 PMCID: PMC9130599 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.893512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
It is considered that chronic hepatitis B patients have obtained functional cure if they get hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance after treatment. Serum HBsAg is produced by cccDNA that is extremely difficult to clear and dslDNA that is integrated with host chromosome. High HBsAg serum level leads to failure of host immune system, which makes it unable to produce effective antiviral response required for HBsAg seroclerance. Therefore, it is very difficult to achieve functional cure, and fewer than 1% of chronic hepatitis B patients are cured with antiviral treatment annually. Some chronic hepatitis B patients are coinfected with other chronic viral infections, such as HIV, HCV and HDV, which makes more difficult to cure. However, it is found that the probability of obtaining HBsAg seroclearance in patients with coinfection is higher than that in patients with HBV monoinfection, especially in patients with HBV/HIV coinfection who have an up to 36% of HBsAg 5-year-seroclerance rate. The mechanism of this interesting phenomenon is related to the functional reconstruction of immune system after antiretroviral therapy (ART). The quantity increase and function recovery of HBV specific T cells and B cells, and the higher level of cytokines and chemokines such as IP-10, GM-CSF, promote HBsAg seroclearance. This review summarizes recent studies on the immune factors that have influence on HBsAg seroconversion in the chronic hepatitis B patients with viral coinfection, which might provide new insights for the development of therapeutic approaches to partially restore the specific immune response to HBV and other viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Wu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Yi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanjiao Gao
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Deng
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyue Bi
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanjie Lin
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Lu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruyu Liu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Min Chang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ge Shen
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Leiping Hu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Minghui Li
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Xie
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Boulahtouf Z, Virzì A, Baumert TF, Verrier ER, Lupberger J. Signaling Induced by Chronic Viral Hepatitis: Dependence and Consequences. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052787. [PMID: 35269929 PMCID: PMC8911453 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic viral hepatitis is a main cause of liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. There are striking similarities in the pathological impact of hepatitis B, C, and D, although these diseases are caused by very different viruses. Paired with the conventional study of protein-host interactions, the rapid technological development of -omics and bioinformatics has allowed highlighting the important role of signaling networks in viral pathogenesis. In this review, we provide an integrated look on the three major viruses associated with chronic viral hepatitis in patients, summarizing similarities and differences in virus-induced cellular signaling relevant to the viral life cycles and liver disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zakaria Boulahtouf
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hepatiques UMR_S1110, Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, F-67000 Strasbourg, France; (Z.B.); (A.V.); (T.F.B.); (E.R.V.)
| | - Alessia Virzì
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hepatiques UMR_S1110, Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, F-67000 Strasbourg, France; (Z.B.); (A.V.); (T.F.B.); (E.R.V.)
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hepatiques UMR_S1110, Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, F-67000 Strasbourg, France; (Z.B.); (A.V.); (T.F.B.); (E.R.V.)
- Service d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Eloi R. Verrier
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hepatiques UMR_S1110, Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, F-67000 Strasbourg, France; (Z.B.); (A.V.); (T.F.B.); (E.R.V.)
| | - Joachim Lupberger
- Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hepatiques UMR_S1110, Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, F-67000 Strasbourg, France; (Z.B.); (A.V.); (T.F.B.); (E.R.V.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Adaptive Immune Responses, Immune Escape and Immune-Mediated Pathogenesis during HDV Infection. Viruses 2022; 14:v14020198. [PMID: 35215790 PMCID: PMC8880046 DOI: 10.3390/v14020198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is the smallest known human virus, yet it causes great harm to patients co-infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). As a satellite virus of HBV, HDV requires the surface antigen of HBV (HBsAg) for sufficient viral packaging and spread. The special circumstance of co-infection, albeit only one partner depends on the other, raises many virological, immunological, and pathophysiological questions. In the last years, breakthroughs were made in understanding the adaptive immune response, in particular, virus-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, in self-limited versus persistent HBV/HDV co-infection. Indeed, the mechanisms of CD8+ T cell failure in persistent HBV/HDV co-infection include viral escape and T cell exhaustion, and mimic those in other persistent human viral infections, such as hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and HBV mono-infection. However, compared to these larger viruses, the small HDV has perfectly adapted to evade recognition by CD8+ T cells restricted by common human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I alleles. Furthermore, accelerated progression towards liver cirrhosis in persistent HBV/HDV co-infection was attributed to an increased immune-mediated pathology, either caused by innate pathways initiated by the interferon (IFN) system or triggered by misguided and dysfunctional T cells. These new insights into HDV-specific adaptive immunity will be discussed in this review and put into context with known well-described aspects in HBV, HCV, and HIV infections.
Collapse
|
8
|
Dziri S, Rodriguez C, Gerber A, Brichler S, Alloui C, Roulot D, Dény P, Pawlotsky JM, Gordien E, Le Gal F. Variable In Vivo Hepatitis D Virus (HDV) RNA Editing Rates According to the HDV Genotype. Viruses 2021; 13:v13081572. [PMID: 34452437 PMCID: PMC8402866 DOI: 10.3390/v13081572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a small defective RNA satellite virus that requires hepatitis B virus (HBV) envelope proteins to form its own virions. The HDV genome possesses a single coding open reading frame (ORF), located on a replicative intermediate, the antigenome, encoding the small (s) and the large (L) isoforms of the delta antigen (s-HDAg and L-HDAg). The latter is produced following an editing process, changing the amber/stop codon on the s-HDAg-ORF into a tryptophan codon, allowing L-HDAg synthesis by the addition of 19 (or 20) C-terminal amino acids. The two delta proteins play different roles in the viral cell cycle: s-HDAg activates genome replication, while L-HDAg blocks replication and favors virion morphogenesis and propagation. L-HDAg has also been involved in HDV pathogenicity. Understanding the kinetics of viral editing rates in vivo is key to unravel the biology of the virus and understand its spread and natural history. We developed and validated a new assay based on next-generation sequencing and aimed at quantifying HDV RNA editing in plasma. We analyzed plasma samples from 219 patients infected with different HDV genotypes and showed that HDV editing capacity strongly depends on the genotype of the strain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samira Dziri
- Centre National de Référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique, Hôpital-Avicenne, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, 93000 Bobigny, France; (S.D.); (A.G.); (S.B.); (C.A.); (P.D.); (E.G.)
| | - Christophe Rodriguez
- Centre National de référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Département de Virologie, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris-Est, 94000 Créteil, France; (C.R.); (J.M.P.)
- Unité INSERM U955, équipe 18, 94000 Créteil, France;
| | - Athenaïs Gerber
- Centre National de Référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique, Hôpital-Avicenne, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, 93000 Bobigny, France; (S.D.); (A.G.); (S.B.); (C.A.); (P.D.); (E.G.)
| | - Ségolène Brichler
- Centre National de Référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique, Hôpital-Avicenne, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, 93000 Bobigny, France; (S.D.); (A.G.); (S.B.); (C.A.); (P.D.); (E.G.)
- Unité INSERM U955, équipe 18, 94000 Créteil, France;
| | - Chakib Alloui
- Centre National de Référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique, Hôpital-Avicenne, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, 93000 Bobigny, France; (S.D.); (A.G.); (S.B.); (C.A.); (P.D.); (E.G.)
- Unité INSERM U955, équipe 18, 94000 Créteil, France;
| | - Dominique Roulot
- Unité INSERM U955, équipe 18, 94000 Créteil, France;
- Unité d’hépatologie, Hôpital Avicenne, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Sorbonne-Paris-Cité, 93000 Bobigny, France
| | - Paul Dény
- Centre National de Référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique, Hôpital-Avicenne, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, 93000 Bobigny, France; (S.D.); (A.G.); (S.B.); (C.A.); (P.D.); (E.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-UMR CNRS 5286, 69001 Lyon, France
| | - Jean Michel Pawlotsky
- Centre National de référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Département de Virologie, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris-Est, 94000 Créteil, France; (C.R.); (J.M.P.)
- Unité INSERM U955, équipe 18, 94000 Créteil, France;
| | - Emmanuel Gordien
- Centre National de Référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique, Hôpital-Avicenne, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, 93000 Bobigny, France; (S.D.); (A.G.); (S.B.); (C.A.); (P.D.); (E.G.)
- Unité INSERM U955, équipe 18, 94000 Créteil, France;
| | - Frédéric Le Gal
- Centre National de Référence des Hépatites Virales B, C et Delta, Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique, Hôpital-Avicenne, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, 93000 Bobigny, France; (S.D.); (A.G.); (S.B.); (C.A.); (P.D.); (E.G.)
- Unité INSERM U955, équipe 18, 94000 Créteil, France;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a small, defective RNA virus that depends on hepatitis B virus (HBV) for virion assembly and transmission. It replicates within the nucleus of hepatocytes and interacts with several cellular proteins. Chronic hepatitis D is a severe and progressive disease, leading to cirrhosis in up to 80% of cases. A high proportion of patients die of liver decompensation or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the lack of large prospective studies has made it difficult to precisely define the rate of these long-term complications. In particular, the question of whether HDV is an oncogenic virus has been a matter of debate. Studies conducted over the past decade provided evidence that HDV is associated with a significantly higher risk of developing HCC compared to HBV monoinfection. However, the mechanisms whereby HDV promotes liver cancer remain elusive. Recent data have demonstrated that the molecular profile of HCC-HDV is unique and distinct from that of HBV-HCC, with an enrichment of upregulated genes involved in cell-cycle/DNA replication, and DNA damage and repair, which point to genome instability as an important mechanism of HDV hepatocarcinogenesis. These data suggest that HBV and HDV promote carcinogenesis by distinct molecular mechanisms despite the obligatory dependence of HDV on HBV.
Collapse
|
10
|
HDV Pathogenesis: Unravelling Ariadne's Thread. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050778. [PMID: 33924806 PMCID: PMC8145675 DOI: 10.3390/v13050778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis Delta virus (HDV) lies in between satellite viruses and viroids, as its unique molecular characteristics and life cycle cannot categorize it according to the standard taxonomy norms for viruses. Being a satellite virus of hepatitis B virus (HBV), HDV requires HBV envelope glycoproteins for its infection cycle and its transmission. HDV pathogenesis varies and depends on the mode of HDV and HBV infection; a simultaneous HDV and HBV infection will lead to an acute hepatitis that will resolve spontaneously in the majority of patients, whereas an HDV super-infection of a chronic HBV carrier will mainly result in the establishment of a chronic HDV infection that may progress towards cirrhosis, liver decompensation, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). With this review, we aim to unravel Ariadne’s thread into the labyrinth of acute and chronic HDV infection pathogenesis and will provide insights into the complexity of this exciting topic by detailing the different players and mechanisms that shape the clinical outcome.
Collapse
|
11
|
Maestro S, Gómez-Echarte N, Camps G, Usai C, Suárez L, Vales Á, Olagüe C, Aldabe R, González-Aseguinolaza G. AAV-HDV: An Attractive Platform for the In Vivo Study of HDV Biology and the Mechanism of Disease Pathogenesis. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050788. [PMID: 33925087 PMCID: PMC8145145 DOI: 10.3390/v13050788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection causes the most severe form of viral hepatitis, but little is known about the molecular mechanisms involved. We have recently developed an HDV mouse model based on the delivery of HDV replication-competent genomes using adeno-associated vectors (AAV), which developed a liver pathology very similar to the human disease and allowed us to perform mechanistic studies. We have generated different AAV-HDV mutants to eliminate the expression of HDV antigens (HDAgs), and we have characterized them both in vitro and in vivo. We confirmed that S-HDAg is essential for HDV replication and cannot be replaced by L-HDAg or host cellular proteins, and that L-HDAg is essential to produce the HDV infectious particle and inhibits its replication. We have also found that lack of L-HDAg resulted in the increase of S-HDAg expression levels and the exacerbation of liver damage, which was associated with an increment in liver inflammation but did not require T cells. Interestingly, early expression of L-HDAg significantly ameliorated the liver damage induced by the mutant expressing only S-HDAg. In summary, the use of AAV-HDV represents a very attractive platform to interrogate in vivo the role of viral components in the HDV life cycle and to better understand the mechanism of HDV-induced liver pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Maestro
- Programa de Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 31080 Pamplona, Spain; (S.M.); (N.G.-E.); (G.C.); (C.U.); (Á.V.); (C.O.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Nahia Gómez-Echarte
- Programa de Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 31080 Pamplona, Spain; (S.M.); (N.G.-E.); (G.C.); (C.U.); (Á.V.); (C.O.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Gracián Camps
- Programa de Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 31080 Pamplona, Spain; (S.M.); (N.G.-E.); (G.C.); (C.U.); (Á.V.); (C.O.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carla Usai
- Programa de Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 31080 Pamplona, Spain; (S.M.); (N.G.-E.); (G.C.); (C.U.); (Á.V.); (C.O.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Lester Suárez
- Suite 110 Research Triangle Park, 20 TW Alexander Drive, AskBio, NC 27709, USA;
| | - África Vales
- Programa de Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 31080 Pamplona, Spain; (S.M.); (N.G.-E.); (G.C.); (C.U.); (Á.V.); (C.O.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cristina Olagüe
- Programa de Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 31080 Pamplona, Spain; (S.M.); (N.G.-E.); (G.C.); (C.U.); (Á.V.); (C.O.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Rafael Aldabe
- Programa de Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 31080 Pamplona, Spain; (S.M.); (N.G.-E.); (G.C.); (C.U.); (Á.V.); (C.O.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
- Correspondence: (R.A.); (G.G.-A.); Tel.: +34-948194700 (ext 4024) (R.A.); +34-948194700 (ext 4024) (G.G.-A.)
| | - Gloria González-Aseguinolaza
- Programa de Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 31080 Pamplona, Spain; (S.M.); (N.G.-E.); (G.C.); (C.U.); (Á.V.); (C.O.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
- Correspondence: (R.A.); (G.G.-A.); Tel.: +34-948194700 (ext 4024) (R.A.); +34-948194700 (ext 4024) (G.G.-A.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jung S, Altstetter SM, Protzer U. Innate immune recognition and modulation in hepatitis D virus infection. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:2781-2791. [PMID: 32550754 PMCID: PMC7284172 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i21.2781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a global health threat with more than 15 million humans affected. Current treatment options are largely unsatisfactory leaving chronically infected humans at high risk to develop liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HDV is the only human satellite virus known. It encodes only two proteins, and requires Hepatitis B virus (HBV) envelope protein expression for productive virion release and spread of the infection. How HDV could evolve and why HBV was selected as a helper virus remains unknown. Since the discovery of Na+-taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide as the essential uptake receptor for HBV and HDV, we are beginning to understand the interactions of HDV and the immune system. While HBV is mostly regarded a stealth virus, that escapes innate immune recognition, HBV-HDV coinfection is characterized by a strong innate immune response. Cytoplasmic RNA sensor melanoma differentiation antigen 5 has been reported to recognize HDV RNA replication and activate innate immunity. Innate immunity, however, seems not to impair HDV replication while it inhibits HBV. In this review, we describe what is known up-to-date about the interplay between HBV as a helper and HDV’s immune evasion strategy and identify where additional research is required.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/virology
- Coinfection/complications
- Coinfection/immunology
- Coinfection/pathology
- Coinfection/virology
- Hepatitis B virus/genetics
- Hepatitis B virus/immunology
- Hepatitis B virus/metabolism
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/complications
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/immunology
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/pathology
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/virology
- Hepatitis D, Chronic/complications
- Hepatitis D, Chronic/immunology
- Hepatitis D, Chronic/pathology
- Hepatitis D, Chronic/virology
- Hepatitis Delta Virus/genetics
- Hepatitis Delta Virus/immunology
- Hepatitis Delta Virus/metabolism
- Hepatitis delta Antigens/immunology
- Hepatitis delta Antigens/metabolism
- Humans
- Immune Evasion
- Immunity, Innate
- Interferon-Induced Helicase, IFIH1/metabolism
- Liver/immunology
- Liver/pathology
- Liver/virology
- Liver Cirrhosis/immunology
- Liver Cirrhosis/pathology
- Liver Cirrhosis/virology
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/virology
- Organic Anion Transporters, Sodium-Dependent/metabolism
- RNA, Viral/immunology
- RNA, Viral/metabolism
- Receptors, Pattern Recognition/immunology
- Receptors, Pattern Recognition/metabolism
- Satellite Viruses/genetics
- Satellite Viruses/immunology
- Satellite Viruses/metabolism
- Symporters/metabolism
- Virus Replication/immunology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Jung
- Institute of Virology, Technical University of Munich/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich D-81675, Germany
| | | | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, Technical University of Munich/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich D-81675, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Site, Munich D-81675, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Puigvehí M, Moctezuma-Velázquez C, Villanueva A, Llovet JM. The oncogenic role of hepatitis delta virus in hepatocellular carcinoma. JHEP Rep 2019; 1:120-130. [PMID: 32039360 PMCID: PMC7001537 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2019.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a small defective virus that needs hepatitis B virus (HBV) to replicate and propagate. HDV infection affects 20-40 million people worldwide and pegylated interferon (PegIFN) is the only recommended therapy. There is limited data on the contribution of HDV infection to HBV-related liver disease or liver cancer. Evidence from retrospective and cohort studies suggests that HBV/HDV coinfection accelerates progression to cirrhosis and is associated with an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development compared to HBV monoinfection. Although the life cycle of HDV is relatively well known, there is only ancillary information on the molecular mechanisms that can drive specific HDV-related oncogenesis. No thorough reports on the specific landscape of mutations or molecular classes of HDV-related HCC have been published. This information could be critical to better understand the uniqueness, if any, of HDV-related HCC and help identify novel targetable mutations. Herein, we review the evidence supporting an oncogenic role of HDV, the main reported mechanisms of HDV involvement and their impact on HCC development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Puigvehí
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Hepatology Section, Gastroenterology Department, Hospital del Mar, IMIM, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Carlos Moctezuma-Velázquez
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Augusto Villanueva
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA.,Denotes co-senior authorship
| | - Josep M Llovet
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Translational Research in Hepatic Oncology, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Denotes co-senior authorship
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Goodrum G, Pelchat M. Insight into the Contribution and Disruption of Host Processes during HDV Replication. Viruses 2018; 11:v11010021. [PMID: 30602655 PMCID: PMC6356607 DOI: 10.3390/v11010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is unique among animal viruses. HDV is a satellite virus of the hepatitis B virus (HBV), however it shares no sequence similarity with its helper virus and replicates independently in infected cells. HDV is the smallest human pathogenic RNA virus and shares numerous characteristics with viroids. Like viroids, HDV has a circular RNA genome which adopts a rod-like secondary structure, possesses ribozyme domains, replicates in the nucleus of infected cells by redirecting host DNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RNAP), and relies heavily on host proteins for its replication due to its small size and limited protein coding capacity. These similarities suggest an evolutionary relationship between HDV and viroids, and information on HDV could allow a better understanding of viroids and might globally help understanding the pathogenesis and molecular biology of these subviral RNAs. In this review, we discuss the host involvement in HDV replication and its implication for HDV pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Goodrum
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
| | - Martin Pelchat
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus that depends on the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) for the creation of new virions and propagation of the infection to hepatocytes. Chronic infection with HDV is usually associated with a worsening of HBV infection, leading more frequently to cirrhosis, increased risk of liver decompensation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence. In spite of a progressive declining prevalence of both acute and chronic HDV infection observed over several years, mainly due to increased global health policies and mass vaccination against HBV, several European countries have more recently observed stable HDV prevalence mainly due to migrants from non-European countries. Persistent HDV replication has been widely demonstrated as associated with cirrhosis development and, as a consequence, development of liver decompensation and occurrence of HCC. Several treatment options have been attempted with poor results in terms of HDV eradication and improvement of long-term prognosis. A global effort is deemed urgent to enhance the models already existing as well as to learn more about HDV infection and correlated tumourigenesis mechanisms.
Collapse
|
16
|
Sureau C, Negro F. The hepatitis delta virus: Replication and pathogenesis. J Hepatol 2016; 64:S102-S116. [PMID: 27084031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective virus and a satellite of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Its RNA genome is unique among animal viruses, but it shares common features with some plant viroids, including a replication mechanism that uses a host RNA polymerase. In infected cells, HDV genome replication and formation of a nucleocapsid-like ribonucleoprotein (RNP) are independent of HBV. But the RNP cannot exit, and therefore propagate, in the absence of HBV, as the latter supplies the propagation mechanism, from coating the HDV RNP with the HBV envelope proteins for cell egress to delivery of the HDV virions to the human hepatocyte target. HDV is therefore an obligate satellite of HBV; it infects humans either concomitantly with HBV or after HBV infection. HDV affects an estimated 15 to 20 million individuals worldwide, and the clinical significance of HDV infection is more severe forms of viral hepatitis--acute or chronic--, and a higher risk of developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in comparison to HBV monoinfection. This review covers molecular aspects of HDV replication cycle, including its interaction with the helper HBV and the pathogenesis of infection in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Sureau
- Molecular Virology laboratory, Institut National de la Transfusion Sanguine (INTS), CNRS INSERM U1134, Paris, France.
| | - Francesco Negro
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Division of Clinical Pathology, University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Hepatitis is damage and inflammation of the liver. It is triggered by both environmental and endogenous insults and is a platform for developing liver cirrhosis and cancer. Both innate and adaptive immune activation contribute to hepatic inflammation and disease. Viral hepatitis is the most common form of hepatitis and is typically associated with chronic viral infection. Alcohol-induced and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis are two rising hepatic problems. The innate immune inflammasome signaling cascade mediates the production of essential proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18. These cytokines regulate hepatic cell interaction and crosstalk of the various inflammatory pathways and influence disease outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amina A Negash
- Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, Department of Immunology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Alfaiate D, Dény P, Durantel D. Hepatitis delta virus: From biological and medical aspects to current and investigational therapeutic options. Antiviral Res 2015; 122:112-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2015.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
19
|
Abbas Z, Abbas M, Abbas S, Shazi L. Hepatitis D and hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:777-786. [PMID: 25914778 PMCID: PMC4404383 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i5.777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 10/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a defective circular shape single stranded HDV RNA virus with two types of viral proteins, small and large hepatitis D antigens, surrounded by hepatitis B surface antigen. Superinfection with HDV in chronic hepatitis B is associated with a more threatening form of liver disease leading to rapid progression to cirrhosis. In spite of some controversy in the epidemiological studies, HDV infection does increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared to hepatitis B virus (HBV) monoinfection. Hepatic decompensation, rather than development of HCC, is the first usual clinical endpoint during the course of HDV infection. Oxidative stress as a result of severe necroinflammation may progress to HCC. The large hepatitis D antigen is a regulator of various cellular functions and an activator of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 and the nuclear factor kappa B pathway. Another proposed epigenetic mechanism by which HCC may form is the aberrant silencing of tumor suppressor genes by DNA Methyltransferases. HDV antigens have also been associated with increased histone H3 acetylation of the clusterin promoter. This enhances the expression of clusterin in infected cells, increasing cell survival potential. Any contribution of HBV DNA integration with chromosomes of infected hepatocytes is not clear at this stage. The targeted inhibition of STAT3 and cyclophilin, and augmentation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ have a potential therapeutic role in HCC.
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
HDV is a defective RNA pathogen requiring the simultaneous presence of HBV to complete its life cycle. Two major specific patterns of infection have been described: the coinfection with HDV and HBV of a susceptible, anti-HBs-negative individual, or the HDV superinfection of a chronic HBV carrier. Coinfection mostly leads to the eradication of both agents, whereas the majority of patients with HDV superinfection evolve to chronic HDV infection and hepatitis. Chronic HDV infection worsens the preexisting HBV-related liver damage. HDV-associated chronic liver disease (chronic hepatitis D) is characterized by necroinflammation and the relentless deposition of collagen culminating, within a few decades, into the development of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
|
21
|
Huang CR, Lo SJ. Hepatitis D virus infection, replication and cross-talk with the hepatitis B virus. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:14589-14597. [PMID: 25356023 PMCID: PMC4209526 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i40.14589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral hepatitis remains a worldwide public health problem. The hepatitis D virus (HDV) must either coinfect or superinfect with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HDV contains a small RNA genome (approximately 1.7 kb) with a single open reading frame (ORF) and requires HBV supplying surface antigens (HBsAgs) to assemble a new HDV virion. During HDV replication, two isoforms of a delta antigen, a small delta antigen (SDAg) and a large delta antigen (LDAg), are produced from the same ORF of the HDV genome. The SDAg is required for HDV replication, whereas the interaction of LDAg with HBsAgs is crucial for packaging of HDV RNA. Various clinical outcomes of HBV/HDV dual infection have been reported, but the molecular interaction between HBV and HDV is poorly understood, especially regarding how HBV and HDV compete with HBsAgs for assembling virions. In this paper, we review the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by HBsAgs and the molecular pathway involved in their promotion of LDAg nuclear export. Because the nuclear sublocalization and export of LDAg is regulated by posttranslational modifications (PTMs), including acetylation, phosphorylation, and isoprenylation, we also summarize the relationship among HBsAg-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling, LDAg PTMs, and nuclear export mechanisms in this review.
Collapse
|
22
|
Williams V, Brichler S, Khan E, Chami M, Dény P, Kremsdorf D, Gordien E. Large hepatitis delta antigen activates STAT-3 and NF-κB via oxidative stress. J Viral Hepat 2012; 19:744-53. [PMID: 22967106 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2012.01597.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) coinfection or superinfection in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected patients results in a more aggressive liver disease, with more often fulminant forms and more rapid progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The mechanism(s) for this pejorative evolution remains unclear. To explore a specific HDV pathogenesis, we used a model of transient transfection of plasmids expressing the small (sHDAg or p24) or the large (LHDAg or p27) delta antigen in hepatocyte cell lines. We found that the production of reactive oxygen species was significantly higher in cells expressing p27. Consequently, p27 activated the signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3) and the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) via the oxidative stress pathway. Moreover in the presence of antioxidants (PDTC, NAC) or calcium inhibitors (TMB-8, BAPTA-AM, Ruthenium Red), p27-induced activation of STAT-3 and NF-κB was dramatically reduced. Similarly, using a mutated form of p27, where the cysteine 211-isoprenylation residue was replaced by a serine, a significant reduction of STAT-3 and NF-κB activation was seen, suggesting the involvement of isoprenylation in this process. Additionally, we show that p27 is able to induce oxidative stress through activation of NADPH oxidase-4. These results provide insight into the mechanisms by which p27 can alter intracellular events relevant to HDV-related liver pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Williams
- Service de bactériologie, virologie - hygiène, hôpital Avicenne, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Laboratoire associé au Centre National de Référence des Hépatites B, C et Delta, Université Paris Nord, Paris
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lutz HH, Trautwein C. Reviving pegylated interferon as a therapeutic agent for hepatitis D: no more room for nucleos(t)ides? Hepatology 2011; 53:2131-3. [PMID: 21618261 DOI: 10.1002/hep.24311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus and hepatitis delta virus (HDV) results in the most severe form of viral hepatitis. There is no currently approved treatment. We investigated the safety and efficacy of 48 weeks of treatment with peginterferon alfa-2a plus adefovir dipivoxil, peginterferon alfa-2a alone,and adefovir dipivoxil alone. METHODS We conducted a randomized trial in which 31 patients with HDV infection received treatment with 180 lg of peginterferon alfa-2a weekly plus 10 mgof adefovir daily, 29 received 180 lg of peginterferon alfa-2a weekly plus placebo, and 30 received 10 mg of adefovir alone weekly for 48 weeks. Follow-up was conducted for an additional 24 weeks. Efficacy end points included clearance of HDV RNA,normalization of alanine aminotransferase levels, and a decline in levels of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). RESULTS The primary endpoint—normalization of alanine aminotransferase levels and clearance of HDV RNA at week 48--was achieved in two patients in the group receiving peginterferon alfa-2a plus adefovir and two patients in the group receiving peginterferon alfa-2a plus placebo but in none of the patients in the group receiving adefovir alone. At week 48, the test for HDV RNA was negative in 23% of patients in the first group, 24% of patients in the second, and none of those in the third (P¼ 0.006 for the comparison of the first and third groups; P¼ 0.004 for the comparison of the second and third). The efficacy of peginterferon alfa-2a was sustained for 24 weeks after treatment, with 28% of the patients receiving peginterferon alfa-2a plus adefovir or peginterferon alfa-2a alone having negative results on HDV-RNA tests; none of the patients receiving adefovir alone had negative results. A decline in HBsAg levels of more than 1 log10 IU per milliliter from baseline to week 48 was observed in 10 patients in the first group, 2 in the second, and none in the third (P<0.001 for the comparison of the first and third groups and P¼0.01 for the comparison of the first and second). CONCLUSIONS Treatment with peginterferon alfa-2a for 48 weeks, with or without adefovir, resulted in sustained HDV RNA clearance in about one quarter of patients with HDV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holger H Lutz
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen Aachen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wu S, Kanda T, Imazeki F, Arai M, Yonemitsu Y, Nakamoto S, Fujiwara K, Fukai K, Nomura F, Yokosuka O. Hepatitis B virus e antigen downregulates cytokine production in human hepatoma cell lines. Viral Immunol 2011; 23:467-76. [PMID: 20883161 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2010.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease activities of hepatitis B are affected by the status of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg). The function of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) precore or HBeAg is unknown. We assumed that HBeAg blocks aberrant immune responses, although HBeAg is not required for viral assembly, infection, or replication. We examined the interaction of HBeAg and the immune system, including cytokine production. The inflammatory cytokine TNF, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12A, IFN-α1, and IFN-ß mRNA were downregulated in HBeAg-positive HepG2, which stably expresses HBeAg, compared to HBeAg-negative HepG2 cells. The results of real-time RT-PCR-based cytokine-related gene arrays showed the downregulation of cytokine and IFN production. We also observed inhibition of the activation of NF-κB- and IFN-ß-promoter in HBeAg-positive HepG2, as well as inhibition of IFN and IL-6 production in HBeAg-positive HepG2 cell culture fluids. HBeAg might modify disease progression by inhibiting inflammatory cytokine and IFN gene expression, while simultaneously suppressing NF-κB-signaling- and IFNß-promoter activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Wu
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Oncology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection involves a distinct subgroup of individuals simultaneously infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and characterized by an often severe chronic liver disease. HDV is a defective RNA agent needing the presence of HBV for its life cycle. HDV is present worldwide, but the distribution pattern is not uniform. Different strains are classified into eight genotypes represented in specific regions and associated with peculiar disease outcome. Two major specific patterns of infection can occur, i.e. co-infection with HDV and HBV or HDV superinfection of a chronic HBV carrier. Co-infection often leads to eradication of both agents, whereas superinfection mostly evolves to HDV chronicity. HDV-associated chronic liver disease (chronic hepatitis D) is characterized by necro-inflammation and relentless deposition of fibrosis, which may, over decades, result in the development of cirrhosis. HDV has a single-stranded, circular RNA genome. The virion is composed of an envelope, provided by the helper HBV and surrounding the RNA genome and the HDV antigen (HDAg). Replication occurs in the hepatocyte nucleus using cellular polymerases and via a rolling circle process, during which the RNA genome is copied into a full-length, complementary RNA. HDV infection can be diagnosed by the presence of antibodies directed against HDAg (anti-HD) and HDV RNA in serum. Treatment involves the administration of pegylated interferon-α and is effective in only about 20% of patients. Liver transplantation is indicated in case of liver failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Pascarella
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Interaction of host cellular proteins with components of the hepatitis delta virus. Viruses 2010; 2:189-212. [PMID: 21994607 PMCID: PMC3185554 DOI: 10.3390/v2010189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2009] [Revised: 01/13/2010] [Accepted: 01/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is the smallest known RNA pathogen capable of propagation in the human host and causes substantial global morbidity and mortality. Due to its small size and limited protein coding capacity, HDV is exquisitely reliant upon host cellular proteins to facilitate its transcription and replication. Remarkably, HDV does not encode an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase which is traditionally required to catalyze RNA-templated RNA synthesis. Furthermore, HDV lacks enzymes responsible for post-transcriptional and -translational modification, processes which are integral to the HDV life cycle. This review summarizes the known HDV-interacting proteins and discusses their significance in HDV biology.
Collapse
|