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Chumbe A, Grobben M, Capella-Pujol J, Koekkoek SM, Zon I, Slamanig S, Merat SJ, Beaumont T, Sliepen K, Schinkel J, van Gils MJ. A panel of hepatitis C virus glycoproteins for the characterization of antibody responses using antibodies with diverse recognition and neutralization patterns. Virus Res 2024; 341:199308. [PMID: 38171391 PMCID: PMC10821612 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199308] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
A vaccine against Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is urgently needed to limit the spread of HCV. The large antigenic diversity of the HCV glycoprotein E1E2 makes it difficult to design a vaccine but also to fully understand the antibody response after infection or vaccination. Here we designed a panel of HCV pseudoparticles (HCVpps) that cover a wide range of genetically and antigenically diverse E1E2s. We validate our panel using neutralization and a binding antibody multiplex assay (BAMA). The panel of HCVpps includes E1E2 glycoproteins from acute and chronically infected cases in the Netherlands, as well as E1E2 glycoproteins from previously reported HCVs. Using eight monoclonal antibodies targeting multiple antigenic regions on E1E2, we could categorize four groups of neutralization sensitive viruses with viruses showing neutralization titers over a 100-fold range. One HCVpp (AMS0230) was extremely neutralization resistant and only neutralized by AR4-targeting antibodies. In addition, using binding antibody multiplex competition assay, we delineated mAb epitopes and their interactions. The binding and neutralization sensitivity of the HCVpps were confirmed using patient sera. At the end, eleven HCVpps with unique antibody binding and neutralization profiles were selected as the final panel for standardized HCV antibody assessments. In conclusion, this HCVpp panel can be used to evaluate antibody binding and neutralization breadth and potency as well as delineate the epitopes targeted in sera from patients or candidate vaccine trials. The HCVpp panel in combination with the established antibody competition assay present highly valuable tools for HCV vaccine development and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Chumbe
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marloes Grobben
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joan Capella-Pujol
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sylvie M Koekkoek
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ian Zon
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stefan Slamanig
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Tim Beaumont
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; AIMM Therapeutics, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kwinten Sliepen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Marit J van Gils
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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2
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de la Peña AT, Sliepen K, Eshun-Wilson L, Newby ML, Allen JD, Zon I, Koekkoek S, Chumbe A, Crispin M, Schinkel J, Lander GC, Sanders RW, Ward AB. Structure of the hepatitis C virus E1E2 glycoprotein complex. Science 2022; 378:263-269. [PMID: 36264808 PMCID: PMC10512783 DOI: 10.1126/science.abn9884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a leading cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma in humans and afflicts more than 58 million people worldwide. The HCV envelope E1 and E2 glycoproteins are essential for viral entry and comprise the primary antigenic target for neutralizing antibody responses. The molecular mechanisms of E1E2 assembly, as well as how the E1E2 heterodimer binds broadly neutralizing antibodies, remain elusive. Here, we present the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the membrane-extracted full-length E1E2 heterodimer in complex with three broadly neutralizing antibodies-AR4A, AT1209, and IGH505-at ~3.5-angstrom resolution. We resolve the interface between the E1 and E2 ectodomains and deliver a blueprint for the rational design of vaccine immunogens and antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Torrents de la Peña
- Department of Integrative Structural Biology and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Kwinten Sliepen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Laboratory of Experimental Virology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lisa Eshun-Wilson
- Department of Integrative Structural Biology and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Maddy L. Newby
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Joel D. Allen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Ian Zon
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Laboratory of Experimental Virology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sylvie Koekkoek
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Laboratory of Experimental Virology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ana Chumbe
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Laboratory of Experimental Virology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Max Crispin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Laboratory of Experimental Virology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gabriel C. Lander
- Department of Integrative Structural Biology and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Rogier W. Sanders
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Laboratory of Experimental Virology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Andrew B. Ward
- Department of Integrative Structural Biology and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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3
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Wan Z, Sun P, Dzakah EE, Huang L, Shuai P, Liu Y. Reinfection rate of hepatitis C in HIV-1 positive men who have sex with men: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:855989. [PMID: 35968434 PMCID: PMC9372531 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.855989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose A reduction of 80% in new Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is expected by 2030. However, high HCV reinfection rates have been reported among the high-risk population. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the HCV reinfection rate after successful treatment of HIV-1 coinfected MSM populations. Methods Bibliographic databases were searched and a random-effect model was utilized to calculate the pooled HCV reinfection rate. Sub-group and meta-regression were used to explore heterogeneity among selected studies. A funnel plot and Egger's regression test were performed to estimate the publication bias. Results Sixteen studies with 9,017.2 person-years (PY) follow-up were included. The overall HCV reinfection rate following successful treatment among HIV-1-infected MSM was 5.27/100 PY (95% CI, 3.98, 6.96). Lower reinfection rates were observed in developed parts of Europe (5.28/100 PY; 95% CI, 3.73, 6.84) and North America (3.92/100 PY; 95% CI, 1.67, 6.17). Reinfection rates among people with HCV test intervals of fewer than 6 months (7.59/100 PY; 95% CI: 5.15, 10.03) were significantly higher than those with more than 6 months test interval (2.88/100 PY; 95% CI: 2.26, 3.50), with an adjusted RR of 1.86 (95% CI, 1.06, 3.13). The adjusted study factors explained 91.03% the of studies' heterogeneity. Conclusion HCV reinfection rate was high in successfully treated MSM who were coinfected with HIV-1. A shorter HCV test interval may help to explore more HCV reinfections. HCV reinfection rate studies from HIV-1 coinfected MSM in underdeveloped countries are urgently needed. Meta registration PROSPERO: CRD42021285206, URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwei Wan
- Department of Health Management Center and Institute of Health Management, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Ping Sun
- Department of Health Management Center and Institute of Health Management, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Emmanuel Enoch Dzakah
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biological Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Liping Huang
- Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Shuai
- Department of Health Management Center and Institute of Health Management, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Ping Shuai
| | - Yuping Liu
- Department of Health Management Center and Institute of Health Management, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Yuping Liu
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4
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Cheng CY, Ku SY, Lin YC, Chen CP, Cheng SH, Lin IF. Incidence and Risk Factors of Reinfection with HCV after Treatment in People Living with HIV. Viruses 2022; 14:v14020439. [PMID: 35216032 PMCID: PMC8874599 DOI: 10.3390/v14020439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) does not induce protective immunity, and re-exposure to HCV can reinfect the population engaging in high-risk behavior. An increasing incidence of acute hepatitis C infection in people living with HIV (PLWH) has been described in recent years. This retrospective cohort study was conducted in PLWH who completed HCV therapy between June 2009 and June 2020 at an HIV care hospital, to analyze their basic characteristics and risky behavior. Of 2419 patients, 639 were diagnosed with HCV infection and 516 completed the HCV therapy with a sustained virologic response. In total, 59 patients (11.4%) were reinfected with acute hepatitis C, and the median time to reinfection was 85.3 weeks (IQR: 57–150). The incidence of reinfection was 6.7 cases/100 person-years. The factors associated with reinfection were being male (AHR, 8.02; 95% CI 1.08–59.49), DAA (direct-acting antiviral) treatment (AHR, 2.23; 95% CI 1.04–4.79), liver cirrhosis (AHR, 3.94; 95% CI 1.09–14.22), heroin dependency (AHR: 7.41; 95% CI 3.37–14.3), and HIV viral loads <50 copies/mL at the follow-up (AHR: 0.47, 95% CI 0.24–0.93) in the subgroup of people who inject drugs (PWID). Amphetamine abuse (AHR: 20.17; 95% CI 2.36–172.52) was the dominant factor in the subgroup of men who have sex with men (MSM). Our study suggests that education and behavioral interventions are needed in this population to prevent reinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Yu Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan City 330, Taiwan; (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.L.); (C.-P.C.); (S.-H.C.)
- Institute of Public Health, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City 112, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Yen Ku
- Department of Nursing, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan City 330, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Chun Lin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan City 330, Taiwan; (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.L.); (C.-P.C.); (S.-H.C.)
| | - Cheng-Pin Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan City 330, Taiwan; (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.L.); (C.-P.C.); (S.-H.C.)
- School of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City 112, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hsing Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan City 330, Taiwan; (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-C.L.); (C.-P.C.); (S.-H.C.)
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City 110, Taiwan
| | - I-Feng Lin
- Institute of Public Health, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City 112, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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5
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Newsum AM, Matser A, Schinkel J, van der Valk M, Brinkman K, van Eeden A, Lauw FN, Rijnders BJA, van de Laar TJW, van de Kerkhof M, Smit C, Boyd A, Arends JE, Prins M. Incidence of HCV Reinfection Among HIV-Positive MSM and Its Association With Sexual Risk Behavior: A Longitudinal Analysis. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:460-467. [PMID: 32459339 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfection following clearance of HCV, but risk factors specifically for reinfection have never been comprehensively assessed. METHODS Using data from a prospective observational cohort study among HIV-positive MSM with an acute HCV infection (MOSAIC), the incidence of HCV reinfection following spontaneous clearance or successful treatment was assessed. A univariable Bayesian exponential survival model was used to identify risk factors associated with HCV reinfection. RESULTS In total, 122 HIV-positive MSM who had a spontaneously cleared or successfully treated HCV infection between 2003 and 2017 were included. During a median follow-up of 1.4 years (interquartile range [IQR] 0.5-3.8), 34 HCV reinfections were observed in 28 patients. The incidence of HCV reinfection was 11.5/100 person-years and among those with reinfection, median time to reinfection was 1.3 years (IQR 0.6-2.7). HCV reinfection was associated with receptive condomless anal intercourse, sharing of sex toys, group sex, anal rinsing before sex, ≥10 casual sex partners in the last 6 months, nadir CD4 cell count <200 cells/mm3, and recent CD4 cell count <500 cells/mm3. CONCLUSIONS Incidence of HCV reinfection was high and strongly associated with sexual risk behavior, highlighting the need for interventions to reduce risk behavior and prevent HCV reinfections among HIV-positive MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid M Newsum
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Amy Matser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kees Brinkman
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, OLVG, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arne van Eeden
- HIV Focus Center, DC Kliniek Lairesse, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fanny N Lauw
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Center Jan van Goyen, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bart J A Rijnders
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thijs J W van de Laar
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Laboratory of Blood-Borne Infections, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, OLVG, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marita van de Kerkhof
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Colette Smit
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joop E Arends
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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6
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Optimized Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) E2 Glycoproteins and their Immunogenicity in Combination with MVA-HCV. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030440. [PMID: 32764419 PMCID: PMC7563715 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) represents a major global health challenge and an efficient vaccine is urgently needed. Many HCV vaccination strategies employ recombinant versions of the viral E2 glycoprotein. However, recombinant E2 readily forms disulfide-bonded aggregates that might not be optimally suited for vaccines. Therefore, we have designed an E2 protein in which we strategically changed eight cysteines to alanines (E2.C8A). E2.C8A formed predominantly monomers and virtually no aggregates. Furthermore, E2.C8A also interacted more efficiently with broadly neutralizing antibodies than conventional E2. We used mice to evaluate different prime/boost immunization strategies involving a modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) expressing the nearly full-length genome of HCV (MVA-HCV) in combination with either the E2 aggregates or the E2.C8A monomers. The combined MVA-HCV/E2 aggregates prime/boost strategy markedly enhanced HCV-specific effector memory CD4+ T cell responses and antibody levels compared to MVA-HCV/MVA-HCV. Moreover, the aggregated form of E2 induced higher levels of anti-E2 antibodies in vaccinated mice than E2.C8A monomers. These antibodies were cross-reactive and mainly of the IgG1 isotype. Our findings revealed how two E2 viral proteins that differ in their capacity to form aggregates are able to enhance to different extent the HCV-specific cellular and humoral immune responses, either alone or in combination with MVA-HCV. These combined protocols of MVA-HCV/E2 could serve as a basis for the development of a more effective HCV vaccine.
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7
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Boender TS, Op de Coul E, Arends J, Prins M, van der Valk M, van der Meer JT, van Benthem B, Reiss P, Smit C. Acute hepatitis C infection among adults with HIV in the Netherlands between 2003 and 2016: a capture-recapture analysis for the 2013 to 2016 period. Euro Surveill 2020; 25:1900450. [PMID: 32098641 PMCID: PMC7043050 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2020.25.7.1900450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWith regards to the global strategy towards eliminating viral hepatitis, reliable surveillance systems are essential to assess the national response for eliminating hepatitis C virus (HCV).AimWe aimed to assess the completeness of the two national registries with data on acute HCV infection in people with HIV, and estimated the number of acute HCV infections among adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with HIV in the Netherlands.MethodsIn this observational study, cases of HCV infection and reinfection among adults with a positive or unknown HIV-serostatus were identified from 2003 to 2016 in two national registries: the ATHENA cohort and the National Registry for Notifiable Diseases. For 2013-2016, cases were linked, and two-way capture-recapture analysis was carried out.ResultsDuring 2013-2016, there were an estimated 282 (95% confidence interval (CI): 264-301) acute HCV infections among adults with HIV. The addition of cases with an unknown HIV-serostatus increased the matches (from n = 107 to n = 129), and subsequently increased the estimated total: 330 (95%CI: 309-351). Under-reporting was estimated at 14-20%.ConclusionUnder-reporting of acute HCV infection among people with HIV could partially be explained by an unknown HIV-serostatus, or by differences in HCV stage (acute or chronic) at first diagnosis. Surveillance data should ideally include both acute and chronic HCV infections, and enable to distinguish these as well as initial- and re-infections. National surveillance of acute HCV can be improved by increased notification of infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eline Op de Coul
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM); Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Epidemiology and Surveillance, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Joop Arends
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, UMCU University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan T.M. van der Meer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Birgit van Benthem
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM); Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Epidemiology and Surveillance, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Reiss
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Global Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, and Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Colette Smit
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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8
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Nijmeijer BM, Koopsen J, Schinkel J, Prins M, Geijtenbeek TBH. Sexually transmitted hepatitis C virus infections: current trends, and recent advances in understanding the spread in men who have sex with men. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 6:e25348. [PMID: 31468692 PMCID: PMC6715947 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major public health threat. Although the recent availability of highly effective directly acting antivirals created optimism towards HCV elimination, there is ongoing transmission of HCV in men who have sex with men (MSM). We here report current epidemiological trends and synthesise evidence on behavioural, network, cellular and molecular host factors associated with sexual transmission of HCV, in particular the role of HIV-1 co-infection. We discuss prevention opportunities focusing on the potential of HCV treatment. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, fact sheets from health professional bodies and conference abstracts using appropriate keywords to identify and select relevant reports. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Recent studies strongly suggest that HCV is transmitted via sexual contact in HIV-positive MSM and more recently in HIV-negative MSM eligible for or on pre-exposure prophylaxis. The reinfection risk following clearance is about 10 times the risk of primary infection. International connectedness of MSM transmission networks might contribute to ongoing reinfection. Some of these networks might overlap with networks of people who inject drugs. Although, the precise mechanisms facilitating sexual transmission remain unclear, damage to the mucosal barrier in the rectum could increase susceptibility. Mucosal dendritic cell subsets could increase HCV susceptibility by retaining HCV and transmitting the virus to other cells, allowing egress into blood and liver. Early identification of new HCV infections is important to prevent onward transmission, but early diagnosis of acute HCV infection and prompt treatment is hampered by the slow rate of HCV antibody seroconversion, which in rare cases may take more than a year. Novel tests such as testing for HCV core antigen might facilitate early diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS High-risk sexual behaviour, network characteristics, co-infection with sexually transmitted infections like HIV-1 and other concomitant bacterial and viral sexually transmitted infections are important factors that lead to HCV spread. Targeted and combined prevention efforts including effective behavioural interventions and scale-up of HCV testing and treatment are required to halt HCV transmission in MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadien M Nijmeijer
- Department of Experimental ImmunologyAmsterdam Infection and Immunity InstituteAmsterdam University Medical CentersUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Jelle Koopsen
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyLaboratory of Clinical VirologyAmsterdam Infection and Immunity InstituteAmsterdam University Medical CentersUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyLaboratory of Clinical VirologyAmsterdam Infection and Immunity InstituteAmsterdam University Medical CentersUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Teunis BH Geijtenbeek
- Department of Experimental ImmunologyAmsterdam Infection and Immunity InstituteAmsterdam University Medical CentersUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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9
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Boerekamps A, De Weggheleire A, van den Berk GE, Lauw FN, Claassen MAA, Posthouwer D, Bierman WF, Hullegie SJ, Popping S, van de Vijver DACM, Dofferhoff ASM, Kootstra GJ, Leyten EM, den Hollander J, van Kasteren ME, Soetekouw R, Ammerlaan HSM, Schinkel J, Florence E, Arends JE, Rijnders BJA. Treatment of acute hepatitis C genotypes 1 and 4 with 8 weeks of grazoprevir plus elbasvir (DAHHS2): an open-label, multicentre, single-arm, phase 3b trial. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 4:269-277. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(18)30414-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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10
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Boerekamps A, Vanwolleghem T, van der Valk M, van den Berk GE, van Kasteren M, Posthouwer D, Dofferhoff ASM, van Hoek B, Ramsoekh D, Koopsen J, Schinkel J, Florence E, Arends JE, Rijnders BJ. 8 weeks of sofosbuvir/ledipasvir is effective in DAA-naive non-cirrhotic HCV genotype 4 infected patients (HEPNED-001 study). J Hepatol 2019; 70:554-557. [PMID: 30527953 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Boerekamps
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas Vanwolleghem
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Guido E van den Berk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, OLVG, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marjo van Kasteren
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Ziekenhuis, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Dirk Posthouwer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Microbiology, Maastricht Universitair Medisch Centrum+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Anthonius S M Dofferhoff
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Bart van Hoek
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dewkoemar Ramsoekh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jelle Koopsen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eric Florence
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Joop E Arends
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Bart J Rijnders
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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11
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Lambers F, van der Veldt W, Prins M, Davidovich U. Changing the odds: motives for and barriers to reducing HCV-related sexual risk behaviour among HIV-infected MSM previously infected with HCV. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:678. [PMID: 30563503 PMCID: PMC6299620 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3571-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Among HIV-infected MSM who have been treated for HCV infection, the HCV reinfection rate is high. It is therefore essential to understand their perceptions of HCV risk behaviour and risk-reducing strategies. Methods This qualitative study among 20 HCV-infected MSM, the majority treated in the era before direct acting antivirals, provides insight into their ideas, motives, and barriers concerning HCV risk reduction, and aims to strengthen prevention strategies for both primary HCV infection and HCV reinfection. Results The strongest motive to implement risk reduction strategies was the reward of avoiding HCV retreatment and its side effects, but this may change with the current implementation of less burdensome HCV treatment. Also, the sexual risk norms in the MSM scene, including social pressure towards risk-taking, HCV stigma, and non-disclosure of HCV status, all form barriers to safe sex. Drug use, strongly present in the context of clubs and group sex, directly impedes the self-efficacy of men to take risk reduction measures. Conclusions Tailored prevention messages, empowerment of self-efficacy for risk reduction, and more insight into risk behaviour over time are ingredients for effective HCV prevention among these men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Lambers
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Wendy van der Veldt
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Infectious Diseases (Centre for Infection and Immunology Amsterdam (CINIMA), Academic Medical Centre (University of Amsterdam), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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12
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Sacks-Davis R, Pedrana AE, Scott N, Doyle JS, Hellard ME. Eliminating HIV/HCV co-infection in gay and bisexual men: is it achievable through scaling up treatment? Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2018; 16:411-422. [PMID: 29722275 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2018.1471355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Broad availability of direct-acting antiviral therapy for hepatitis C virus (HCV) raises the possibility that HCV prevalence and incidence can be reduced through scaling-up treatment, leading to the elimination of HCV. High rates of linkage to HIV care among HIV-infected gay and bisexual men may facilitate high uptake of HCV treatment, possibly making HCV elimination more achievable in this group. Areas covered: This review covers HCV elimination in HIV-infected gay and bisexual men, including epidemiology, spontaneous clearance and long term sequelae in the absence of direct-acting antiviral therapy; direct-acting antiviral therapy uptake and effectiveness in this group; HCV reinfection following successful treatment; and areas for further research. Expert commentary: Early data from the direct-acting antiviral era suggest that treatment uptake is increasing among HIV infected GBM, and SVR rates are very promising. However, in order to sustain current treatment rates, additional interventions at the behavioral, physician, and structural levels may be required to increase HCV diagnosis, including prompt detection of HCV reinfection. Timely consideration of these issues is required to maximize the population-level impact of HCV direct-acting antiviral therapy. Potential HCV transmissions from HIV-uninfected GBM, across international borders, and from those who are not GBM also warrant consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Sacks-Davis
- a Disease Elimination Program , Burnet Institute , Melbourne , Australia.,b Department of Medicine , University of Melbourne , Parkville , Australia
| | - Alisa E Pedrana
- a Disease Elimination Program , Burnet Institute , Melbourne , Australia.,c Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine , Monash University , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Nick Scott
- a Disease Elimination Program , Burnet Institute , Melbourne , Australia.,c Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine , Monash University , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Joseph S Doyle
- a Disease Elimination Program , Burnet Institute , Melbourne , Australia.,d Central Clinical School , Monash University , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- a Disease Elimination Program , Burnet Institute , Melbourne , Australia.,c Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine , Monash University , Melbourne , Australia
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13
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Limited overlap between phylogenetic HIV and hepatitis C virus clusters illustrates the dynamic sexual network structure of Dutch HIV-infected MSM. AIDS 2017; 31:2147-2158. [PMID: 28692530 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MSM are at increased risk for infection with HIV-1 and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Is HIV/HCV coinfection confined to specific HIV transmission networks? DESIGN AND METHODS A HIV phylogenetic tree was constructed for 5038 HIV-1 subtype B polymerase (pol) sequences obtained from MSM in the AIDS therapy evaluation in the Netherlands cohort. We investigated the existence of HIV clusters with increased HCV prevalence, the HIV phylogenetic density (i.e. the number of potential HIV transmission partners) of HIV/HCV-coinfected MSM compared with HIV-infected MSM without HCV, and the overlap in HIV and HCV phylogenies using HCV nonstructural protein 5B sequences from 183 HIV-infected MSM with acute HCV infection. RESULTS Five hundred and sixty-three of 5038 (11.2%) HIV-infected MSM tested HCV positive. Phylogenetic analysis revealed 93 large HIV clusters (≥10 MSM), 370 small HIV clusters (2-9 MSM), and 867 singletons with a median HCV prevalence of 11.5, 11.6, and 9.3%, respectively. We identified six large HIV clusters with elevated HCV prevalence (range 23.5-46.2%). Median HIV phylogenetic densities for MSM with HCV (3, interquartile range 1-7) and without HCV (3, interquartile range 1-8) were similar. HCV phylogeny showed 12 MSM-specific HCV clusters (clustersize: 2-39 HCV sequences); 12.7% of HCV infections were part of the same HIV and HCV cluster. CONCLUSION We observed few HIV clusters with elevated HCV prevalence, no increase in the HIV phylogenetic density of HIV/HCV-coinfected MSM compared to HIV-infected MSM without HCV, and limited overlap between HIV and HCV phylogenies among HIV/HCV-coinfected MSM. Our data do not support the existence of MSM-specific sexual networks that fuel both the HIV and HCV epidemic.
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14
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES AND DESIGN Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been recognized as an emerging sexually transmitted infection (STI) among HIV-positive MSM. However, HIV-negative MSM at high risk for HIV might also be at increased risk for HCV. We studied the HCV prevalence in HIV-negative MSM who start preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Amsterdam. Phylogenetic analysis was used to compare HCV strains obtained from HIV-negative and HIV-positive MSM. METHODS At enrolment in the Amsterdam PrEP demonstration project, HIV-negative MSM were tested for the presence of HCV antibodies and HCV RNA. If positive for HCV RNA, an HCV NS5B gene fragment (709 bp) was sequenced and compared with HCV isolates from HIV-positive MSM (n = 223) and risk groups other than MSM (n = 153), using phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS Of 375 HIV-negative MSM enrolled in Amsterdam PrEP, 18 (4.8%, 95% confidence interval 2.9-7.5%) of participants were anti-HCV and/or HCV RNA positive at enrolment; 15 of 18 (83%) had detectable HCV RNA. HCV genotyping showed genotype 1a (73%), 4d (20%), and 2b (7%). All HCV-positive MSM starting PrEP were part of MSM-specific HCV clusters containing MSM with and without HIV. CONCLUSION HCV prevalence among HIV-negative MSM who started PrEP was higher than previously reported. All HIV-negative HCV-positive MSM were infected with HCV strains already circulating among HIV-positive MSM. The increasing overlap between sexual networks of HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM might result in an expanding HCV-epidemic irrespective of HIV-status. Hence, routine HCV testing should be offered to MSM at high risk for HIV, especially for those enrolling in PrEP programs.
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15
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Hullegie SJ, Arends JEA, Groothuismink ZMA, Pas SD, Rijnders BJA, Boonstra A, Claassen MAA. Decreased pro-inflammatory immune responses during recurrent acute HCV infections in HIV co-infected patients. J Gen Virol 2017; 98:1294-1298. [PMID: 28597817 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients in high-risk groups continue to transmit the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and frequently experience reinfections. Since little is known regarding the immune response to HCV during reinfection, we compared primary and consecutive acute HCV infections in patients with an HIV infection, and focused on the cytokine bridging innate to adaptive immunity. We observed that the serum levels of IL-12p40, MIP-1β, MIG and IP-10 increased during primary acute HCV infection, but not during subsequent secondary acute reinfections. The weaker pro-inflammatory cytokine responses observed during HCV reinfections suggest more limited secondary acute immune responses, which may prevent damage to the infected liver.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joop E A Arends
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Suzan D Pas
- Department of Virology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bart J A Rijnders
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andre Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mark A A Claassen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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16
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Characterization of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Envelope Diversification from Acute to Chronic Infection within a Sexually Transmitted HCV Cluster by Using Single-Molecule, Real-Time Sequencing. J Virol 2017; 91:JVI.02262-16. [PMID: 28077634 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02262-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In contrast to other available next-generation sequencing platforms, PacBio single-molecule, real-time (SMRT) sequencing has the advantage of generating long reads albeit with a relatively higher error rate in unprocessed data. Using this platform, we longitudinally sampled and sequenced the hepatitis C virus (HCV) envelope genome region (1,680 nucleotides [nt]) from individuals belonging to a cluster of sexually transmitted cases. All five subjects were coinfected with HIV-1 and a closely related strain of HCV genotype 4d. In total, 50 samples were analyzed by using SMRT sequencing. By using 7 passes of circular consensus sequencing, the error rate was reduced to 0.37%, and the median number of sequences was 612 per sample. A further reduction of insertions was achieved by alignment against a sample-specific reference sequence. However, in vitro recombination during PCR amplification could not be excluded. Phylogenetic analysis supported close relationships among HCV sequences from the four male subjects and subsequent transmission from one subject to his female partner. Transmission was characterized by a strong genetic bottleneck. Viral genetic diversity was low during acute infection and increased upon progression to chronicity but subsequently fluctuated during chronic infection, caused by the alternate detection of distinct coexisting lineages. SMRT sequencing combines long reads with sufficient depth for many phylogenetic analyses and can therefore provide insights into within-host HCV evolutionary dynamics without the need for haplotype reconstruction using statistical algorithms.IMPORTANCE Next-generation sequencing has revolutionized the study of genetically variable RNA virus populations, but for phylogenetic and evolutionary analyses, longer sequences than those generated by most available platforms, while minimizing the intrinsic error rate, are desired. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that PacBio SMRT sequencing technology can be used to generate full-length HCV envelope sequences at the single-molecule level, providing a data set with large sequencing depth for the characterization of intrahost viral dynamics. The selection of consensus reads derived from at least 7 full circular consensus sequencing rounds significantly reduced the intrinsic high error rate of this method. We used this method to genetically characterize a unique transmission cluster of sexually transmitted HCV infections, providing insight into the distinct evolutionary pathways in each patient over time and identifying the transmission-associated genetic bottleneck as well as fluctuations in viral genetic diversity over time, accompanied by dynamic shifts in viral subpopulations.
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17
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The hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 3 Q80K polymorphism is frequently detected and transmitted among HIV-infected MSM in the Netherlands. AIDS 2017; 31:105-112. [PMID: 27898592 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Q80K polymorphism is a naturally occurring resistance-associated variant in the hepatitis C virus (HCV) nonstructural protein 3 (NS3) region and is likely transmissible between hosts. This study describes the Q80K origin and prevalence among HCV risk groups in the Netherlands and examines whether Q80K is linked to specific transmission networks. DESIGN AND METHODS Stored blood samples from HCV genotype 1a-infected patients were used for PCR and sequencing to reconstruct the NS3 maximum likelihood phylogeny. The most recent common ancestor was estimated with a coalescent-based model within a Bayesian statistical framework. RESULTS Study participants (n = 150) were either MSM (39%), people who inject drugs (17%), or patients with other (15%) or unknown/unreported (29%) risk behavior. Overall 45% was coinfected with HIV. Q80K was present in 36% (95% confidence interval 28-44%) of patients throughout the sample collection period (2000-2015) and was most prevalent in MSM (52%, 95% confidence interval 38-65%). Five MSM-specific transmission clusters were identified, of which three exclusively contained sequences with Q80K. The HCV-1a most recent common ancestor in the Netherlands was estimated in 1914 (95% higher posterior density 1879-1944) and Q80K originated in 1957 (95% higher posterior density 1942-1970) within HCV-1a clade I. All Q80K lineages could be traced back to this single origin. CONCLUSION Q80K is a highly stable and transmissible resistance-associated variant and was present in a large part of Dutch HIV-coinfected MSM. The introduction and expansion of Q80K variants in this key population suggest a founder effect, potentially jeopardizing future treatment with simeprevir.
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van de Laar TJ, Richel O. Emerging viral STIs among HIV-positive men who have sex with men: the era of hepatitis C virus and human papillomavirus. Sex Transm Infect 2016; 93:368-373. [PMID: 27789574 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2016-052677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of infectious disease outbreaks and the number of unique pathogens responsible have significantly increased since the 1980s. HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) are a vulnerable population with regards to the introduction, spread and clinical consequences of (newly introduced) STIs. After the introduction of combination antiretroviral treatment (cART), the incidence of sexually acquired hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced anal cancers have significantly increased among HIV-positive MSM. The introduction and expansion of HCV is the result of increased sexual risk behaviour and sexually acquired mucosal trauma within large interconnected networks of HIV-positive MSM in particular. With the availability of cART, postexposure and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PEP and PrEP) and direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for HCV, less concern for HIV and HCV might require a new approach to develop effective behavioural intervention strategies among MSM. The marked rise in HPV-induced anal cancers can be ascribed to the long-term immunologic defects in an ageing population affected by HIV. More evidence with regards to effective treatment options for anal dysplastic lesions and the usefulness of anal malignancy screening programmes is urgently needed. Most anal cancers in the future generation of HIV-positive MSM could be prevented with the inclusion of boys in addition to girls in current HPV vaccination programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs Jw van de Laar
- Department of Blood-Borne Infections, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olivier Richel
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Amsterdam/Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Incident Hepatitis C Virus Genotype Distribution and Multiple Infection in Australian Prisons. J Clin Microbiol 2016; 54:1855-1861. [PMID: 27170021 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00287-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a highly diverse pathogen that is classified into seven distinct genotypes. Simultaneous or sequential reinfection with multiple HCV genotypes is recognized in high-risk populations, such as injecting drug users (IDUs). Multiple infection is of clinical concern as different genotypes have various sensitivities to current antiviral therapies. Therefore, a better understanding of the frequency of multiple infection and of the genotypes currently being transmitted is clinically relevant. An Australian cohort of IDUs (n = 123), identified with primary incident infection, was followed for multiple infection by regular HCV RNA testing between 2005 and 2013. A total of 354 samples were tested. Sequencing of primary incident infections revealed that genotype 3a was the most common circulating genotype, followed by genotype 1a. Examination of longitudinally collected samples identified complex patterns of multiple infection, including reinfection and superinfection. In those with multiple infection, there was no apparent evidence of homotypic immunity conferring protection against reinfection of the same subtype. This study revealed frequent multiple infection in a high-risk prisoner cohort, illustrating the complex nature of HCV infection and reinfection and highlighting the need for pan-genotypic antiviral therapies.
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