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Sawada K, Chung H, Softic S, Moreno-Fernandez ME, Divanovic S. The bidirectional immune crosstalk in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Cell Metab 2023; 35:1852-1871. [PMID: 37939656 PMCID: PMC10680147 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an unabated risk factor for end-stage liver diseases with no available therapies. Dysregulated immune responses are critical culprits of MASLD pathogenesis. Independent contributions from either the innate or adaptive arms of the immune system or their unidirectional interplay are commonly studied in MASLD. However, the bidirectional communication between innate and adaptive immune systems and its impact on MASLD remain insufficiently understood. Given that both innate and adaptive immune cells are indispensable for the development and progression of inflammation in MASLD, elucidating pathogenic contributions stemming from the bidirectional interplay between these two arms holds potential for development of novel therapeutics for MASLD. Here, we review the immune cell types and bidirectional pathways that influence the pathogenesis of MASLD and highlight potential pharmacologic approaches to combat MASLD based on current knowledge of this bidirectional crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Sawada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Hak Chung
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Samir Softic
- Department of Pediatrics and Gastroenterology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Maria E Moreno-Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
| | - Senad Divanovic
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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2
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Yang Y, He X, Rojas M, Leung PSC, Gao L. Mechanism-based target therapy in primary biliary cholangitis: opportunities before liver cirrhosis? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1184252. [PMID: 37325634 PMCID: PMC10266968 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1184252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an immune-mediated liver disease characterized by cholestasis, biliary injuries, liver fibrosis, and chronic non-suppurative cholangitis. The pathogenesis of PBC is multifactorial and involves immune dysregulation, abnormal bile metabolism, and progressive fibrosis, ultimately leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and obeticholic acid (OCA) are currently used as first- and second-line treatments, respectively. However, many patients do not respond adequately to UDCA, and the long-term effects of these drugs are limited. Recent research has advanced our understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis in PBC and greatly facilitated development of novel drugs to target mechanistic checkpoints. Animal studies and clinical trials of pipeline drugs have yielded promising results in slowing disease progression. Targeting immune mediated pathogenesis and anti-inflammatory therapies are focused on the early stage, while anti-cholestatic and anti-fibrotic therapies are emphasized in the late stage of disease, which is characterized by fibrosis and cirrhosis development. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that currently, there exists a dearth of therapeutic options that can effectively impede the progression of the disease to its terminal stages. Hence, there is an urgent need for further research aimed at investigating the underlying pathophysiology mechanisms with potential therapeutic effects. This review highlights our current knowledge of the underlying immunological and cellular mechanisms of pathogenesis in PBC. Further, we also address current mechanism-based target therapies for PBC and potential therapeutic strategies to improve the efficacy of existing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushu Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - XiaoSong He
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Manuel Rojas
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Patrick S. C. Leung
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Lixia Gao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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3
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Floreani A, Gabbia D, De Martin S. Update on the Pharmacological Treatment of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10082033. [PMID: 36009580 PMCID: PMC9405864 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10082033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the first-line therapy used for the treatment of PBC. In recent years, new pharmacological agents have been proposed for PBC therapy to cure UDCA-non-responders. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is registered in many countries for PBC, and fibrates also seem to be effective in ameliorating biochemistry alteration and symptoms typical of PBC. Moreover, a variety of new agents, acting with different mechanisms of action, are under clinical evaluation for PBC treatment, including PPAR agonists, anti-NOX agents, immunomodulators, and mesenchymal stem cell transplantation. Since an insufficient amount of data is currently available about the effect of these novel approaches on robust clinical endpoints, such as transplant-free survival, their clinical approval needs to be supported by the consistent improvement of these parameters. The intensive research in this field will hopefully lead to a novel treatment landscape for PBC in the near future, with innovative therapies based on the combination of multiple agents acting on different pathogenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- IRCCS Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Vitale G, Gitto S, Campani C, Turco L, Baldan A, Marra F, Morelli MC. Biological therapies in patients with liver disease: are they really lifesavers? Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 22:473-490. [PMID: 34860629 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2013799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The liver plays a key role in the setting of immune tolerance. Targeting antigens for presentation by antigen-presenting cells in the liver can induce immune tolerance to either autoantigens from the liver itself or organs outside of the liver. Despite its non-conventional capacity for tolerance induction, the liver remains a target organ for autoimmune diseases. Whereas chronic inflammation and intra-hepatic immuno-suppressive microenvironment occurring during liver fibrosis lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. Monoclonal antibodies have revolutionized the therapeutic strategies of many autoimmune diseases and some cancers. AREAS COVERED We review data from literature regarding the safety and efficacy of biologics in treating hepatobiliary autoimmune diseases and primary liver cancers. Furthermore, we describe their potential use in the setting of liver transplants and their main immune-related liver adverse events. EXPERT OPINION Biological therapies have changed the natural history of main autoimmune diseases and solid cancers. Compared to other organs and disease settings, the liver lags behind in biologics and their applications. The development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies based on the immunological and antigenic characteristics of the hepatobiliary system could reduce mortality and transplant rates linked to chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Vitale
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Gitto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudia Campani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Turco
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Baldan
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Marra
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Morelli
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Raabe O, Birchler T, Rehrauer H, Eppler E. CD40 Agonist Monoclonal Antibody-Mediated Hepatitis in TNF-Receptor 1 Gene Knockout Mice. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9080863. [PMID: 34440067 PMCID: PMC8389574 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) plays an important role in liver inflammation. CD40-CD40 ligand (CD40-CD40L) is a key receptor–ligand signaling pair involved in the adaptive immune response and pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. In mice, CD40 activation leads to sickness behavior syndrome (SBS) comprising weight loss, sleep disruption and depression, which can be blocked by administration of the TNF-inhibitor etanercept. In the present study, we assessed the extent of hepatic inflammation in mice devoid of the TNF-receptor 1 (TNFR1)-mediated signaling pathway. The TNFR1-depleted (TNFR1−/−) adult mice and their wild type littermates were given a single intra-peritoneal injection of CD40 agonist monoclonal antibody (mAb) or rat IgG2a isotope control. As described previously, TNFR1−/− mice were protected from SBS upon CD40 mAb treatment. Cd40, tnf and tnfr1 mRNA and Tnf-α peptide were increased in the liver of CD40 mAb-stimulated wild type mice. Serum alanine aminotransferase was elevated in both CD40-activated wild type and TNFR1−/− mice. TNFR1−/− mice showed much less intra-parenchymal infiltrates, hepatocellular necrosis, and perivascular clusters upon CD40 mAb activation than their wild type littermates. A gene expression microarray detected increased activity of metabolic and detoxification pathways and decreased activity of inflammatory pathways. We conclude that immune activation and development of liver inflammation in CD40L interactions depend on TNFR1-mediated signaling pathways and are counteracted by alterations in metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Raabe
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Thomas Birchler
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland;
| | - Hubert Rehrauer
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich (FGCZ), ETH Zürich, University of Zurich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland;
| | - Elisabeth Eppler
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-31-684-84-53
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Clinical Management of Primary Biliary Cholangitis-Strategies and Evolving Trends. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2021; 59:175-194. [PMID: 31713023 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-019-08772-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PBC is a chronic progressive autoimmune disorder involving the destruction of intrahepatic small bile ducts, cholestasis, fibrosis, and ultimately cirrhosis if left untreated. It is largely driven by the autoimmune response, but bile acids and the intestinal microbiota are implicated in disease progression as well. The only drugs licensed for PBC are UDCA and OCA. UDCA as a first-line and OCA as a second-line therapy are safe and effective, but the lack of response in a significant portion of patients and inadequate control of symptoms such as fatigue and pruritus remain as concerns. Liver transplantation is an end-stage therapy for many patients refractory to UDCA, which gives excellent survival rates but also moderate to high recurrence rates. The limited options for FDA-approved PBC therapies necessitate the development of alternative approaches. Currently, a wide variety of experimental drugs exist targeting immunological and physiological aspects of PBC to suppress inflammation. Immunological therapies include drugs targeting immune molecules in the B cell and T cell response, and specific cytokines and chemokines implicated in inflammation. Drugs targeting bile acids are also noteworthy as bile acids can perpetuate hepatic inflammation and lead to fibrosis over time. These include FXR agonists, ASBT inhibitors, and PPAR agonists such as bezafibrate and fenofibrate. Nonetheless, many of these drugs can only delay disease progression and fail to enhance patients' quality of life. Nanomedicine shows great potential for treatment of autoimmune diseases, as it provides a new approach that focuses on tolerance induction rather than immunosuppression. Tolerogenic nanoparticles carrying immune-modifying agents can be engineered to safely and effectively target the antigen-specific immune response in autoimmune diseases. These may work well with PBC especially, given the anatomical features and immunological specificity of the disease. Nanobiological therapy is thus an area of highly promising research for future treatment of PBC.
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The Management of Cholestatic Liver Diseases: Current Therapies and Emerging New Possibilities. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081763. [PMID: 33919600 PMCID: PMC8073106 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081763] [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: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are two chronic cholestatic liver diseases affecting bile ducts that may progress to biliary cirrhosis. In the past few years, the increasing knowledge in the pathogenesis of both diseases led to a growing number of clinical trials and possible new targets for therapy. In this review, we provide an update on the treatments in clinical use and summarize the new drugs in trials for PBC and PSC patients. Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) agonists and Pan-Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) agonists are the most promising agents and have shown promising results in both PBC and PSC. Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19) analogues also showed good results, especially in PBC, while, although PBC and PSC are autoimmune diseases, immunosuppressive drugs had disappointing effects. Since the gut microbiome could have a potential role in the pathogenesis of PSC, recent research focused on molecules that could change the microbiome, with good results. The near future of the medical management of these diseases may include new treatments or a combination of multiple drugs targeting different signaling pathways at different stages of the diseases.
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Zou M, Wang A, Wei J, Cai H, Yu Z, Zhang L, Wang X. An insight into the mechanism and molecular basis of dysfunctional immune response involved in cholestasis. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 92:107328. [PMID: 33412394 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cholestasis is one of the most common clinical symptom of liver diseases. If patients do not receive effective treatment, cholestasis can evolve into liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and ultimately liver failure requiring liver transplantation. Currently, only ursodeoxycholic acid, obeticholic acid and bezafibrate are FDA-approved drugs, thereby requiring a breakthrough in new mechanisms and therapeutic development. Inflammation is one of the common complications of cholestasis. Hepatic accumulation of toxic hydrophobic bile acids is a highly immunogenic process involving both resident and immigrating immune cells. And the resulting inflammation may further aggravate hepatocyte injury. Though, great investigations have been made in the immune responses during cholestasis, the relationship between immune responses and cholestasis remains unclear. Moreover, scarce reviews summarize the immune responses during cholestasis and the efficacy of therapies on immune response. The main purpose of this paper is to review the existing literature on dysfunctional immune response during cholestasis and the effect of treatment on immune response which may provide an insight for researchers and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengzhi Zou
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Aizhen Wang
- The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University and The Second People's Hospital of Huai'an, Huaian 223002, PR China
| | - Jiajie Wei
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Heng Cai
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Zixun Yu
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Luyong Zhang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China; Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
| | - Xinzhi Wang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China.
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Yokoda RT, Rodriguez EA. Review: Pathogenesis of cholestatic liver diseases. World J Hepatol 2020; 12:423-435. [PMID: 32952871 PMCID: PMC7475774 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v12.i8.423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholestatic liver diseases (CLD) begin to develop after an impairment of bile flow start to affect the biliary tree. Cholangiocytes actively participate in the liver response to injury and repair and the intensity of this reaction is a determinant factor for the development of CLD. Progressive cholangiopathies may ultimately lead to end-stage liver disease requiring at the end orthotopic liver transplantation. This narrative review will discuss cholangiocyte biology and pathogenesis mechanisms involved in four intrahepatic CLD: Primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, cystic fibrosis involving the liver, and polycystic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel T Yokoda
- Department of Anatomic and Clinical Pathology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10467, United States
| | - Eduardo A Rodriguez
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
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Ueno K, Aiba Y, Hitomi Y, Shimoda S, Nakamura H, Gervais O, Kawai Y, Kawashima M, Nishida N, Kohn SS, Kojima K, Katsushima S, Naganuma A, Sugi K, Komatsu T, Mannami T, Matsushita K, Yoshizawa K, Makita F, Nikami T, Nishimura H, Kouno H, Kouno H, Ohta H, Komura T, Tsuruta S, Yamauchi K, Kobata T, Kitasato A, Kuroki T, Abiru S, Nagaoka S, Komori A, Yatsuhashi H, Migita K, Ohira H, Tanaka A, Takikawa H, Nagasaki M, Tokunaga K, Nakamura M. Integrated GWAS and mRNA Microarray Analysis Identified IFNG and CD40L as the Central Upstream Regulators in Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Hepatol Commun 2020; 4:724-738. [PMID: 32363322 PMCID: PMC7193132 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) in European and East Asian populations have identified more than 40 disease‐susceptibility genes in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). The aim of this study is to computationally identify disease pathways, upstream regulators, and therapeutic targets in PBC through integrated GWAS and messenger RNA (mRNA) microarray analysis. Disease pathways and upstream regulators were analyzed with ingenuity pathway analysis in data set 1 for GWASs (1,920 patients with PBC and 1,770 controls), which included 261 annotated genes derived from 6,760 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (P < 0.00001), and data set 2 for mRNA microarray analysis of liver biopsy specimens (36 patients with PBC and 5 normal controls), which included 1,574 genes with fold change >2 versus controls (P < 0.05). Hierarchical cluster analysis and categorization of cell type–specific genes were performed for data set 2. There were 27 genes, 10 pathways, and 149 upstream regulators that overlapped between data sets 1 and 2. All 10 pathways were immune‐related. The most significant common upstream regulators associated with PBC disease susceptibility identified were interferon‐gamma (IFNG) and CD40 ligand (CD40L). Hierarchical cluster analysis of data set 2 revealed two distinct groups of patients with PBC by disease activity. The most significant upstream regulators associated with disease activity were IFNG and CD40L. Several molecules expressed in B cells, T cells, Kupffer cells, and natural killer–like cells were identified as potential therapeutic targets in PBC with reference to a recently reported list of cell type–specific gene expression in the liver. Conclusion: Our integrated analysis using GWAS and mRNA microarray data sets predicted that IFNG and CD40L are the central upstream regulators in both disease susceptibility and activity of PBC and identified potential downstream therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuko Ueno
- Genome Medical Science Project National Center for Global Health and Medicine Tokyo Japan.,Department of Human Genetics Graduate School of Medicine University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Aiba
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan
| | - Yuki Hitomi
- Department of Human Genetics Graduate School of Medicine University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan.,Department of Microbiology Hoshi University School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tokyo Japan
| | - Shinji Shimoda
- Department of Medicine and Biosystemic Science Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences Fukuoka Japan
| | - Hitomi Nakamura
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan
| | - Olivier Gervais
- Human Biosciences Unit for the Top Global Course Center for the Promotion of Interdisciplinary Education and Research Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Yosuke Kawai
- Genome Medical Science Project National Center for Global Health and Medicine Tokyo Japan.,Department of Human Genetics Graduate School of Medicine University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | | | - Nao Nishida
- Genome Medical Science Project National Center for Global Health and Medicine Tokyo Japan.,Department of Human Genetics Graduate School of Medicine University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Seik-Soon Kohn
- Genome Medical Science Project National Center for Global Health and Medicine Tokyo Japan.,Department of Human Genetics Graduate School of Medicine University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Kaname Kojima
- Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization Tohoku University Sendai Japan
| | - Shinji Katsushima
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Atsushi Naganuma
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Sugi
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Tatsuji Komatsu
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Tomohiko Mannami
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Kouki Matsushita
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Kaname Yoshizawa
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Fujio Makita
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Toshiki Nikami
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Hideo Nishimura
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kouno
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Hirotaka Kouno
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Hajime Ohta
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Takuya Komura
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Satoru Tsuruta
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Yamauchi
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Tatsuro Kobata
- Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan
| | - Amane Kitasato
- Department of Surgery National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan
| | - Tamotsu Kuroki
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan.,Department of Surgery National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan.,Department of Hepatology Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Nagasaki University Omura Japan
| | - Seigo Abiru
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan
| | - Shinya Nagaoka
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan
| | - Atsumasa Komori
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan.,Department of Hepatology Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Nagasaki University Omura Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yatsuhashi
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan.,Department of Hepatology Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Nagasaki University Omura Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Migita
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology and Rheumatic Diseases Fukushima Medical University of Medicine Fukushima Japan
| | - Hiromasa Ohira
- Department of Gastroenterology and Rheumatic Diseases Fukushima Medical University of Medicine Fukushima Japan
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine Teikyo University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Hajime Takikawa
- Department of Medicine Teikyo University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Masao Nagasaki
- Human Biosciences Unit for the Top Global Course Center for the Promotion of Interdisciplinary Education and Research Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Katsushi Tokunaga
- Genome Medical Science Project National Center for Global Health and Medicine Tokyo Japan.,Department of Human Genetics Graduate School of Medicine University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Minoru Nakamura
- Clinical Research Center National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Omura Japan.,Headquarters of PBC Research National Hospital Organization Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan Omura Japan.,Department of Hepatology Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Nagasaki University Omura Japan.,Headquarters of PBC-GWAS Consortium in Japan National Hospital Organization of Nagasaki Medical Center Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Nagasaki University Omura Japan
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Shah RA, Kowdley KV. Current and potential treatments for primary biliary cholangitis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 5:306-315. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(19)30343-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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12
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Abstract
Though ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) remains the baseline treatment for most cholestatic liver diseases, UDCA treatment leaves approximately one-third of patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and all patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) at risk for disease progression. New anticholestatic agents, including nuclear receptor agonists, choleretics, and bile acid synthesis suppressors, will likely increase response rates to therapy in PBC and PSC. Strategies that target early immune-mediated injury have so far been disappointing, hampered by the lack of biomarkers to detect early disease states, which then could profit from immunomodulatory therapy. Future concepts need to personalize treatments according to disease stage, progression, and phase, and to combine multiple drugs to target different pathogenic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Wagner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Peter Fickert
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
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13
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Immune checkpoint molecules. Possible future therapeutic implications in autoimmune diseases. J Autoimmun 2019; 104:102333. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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14
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D, Vierling JM, Adams D, Alpini G, Banales JM, Beuers U, Björnsson E, Bowlus C, Carbone M, Chazouillères O, Dalekos G, De Gottardi A, Harada K, Hirschfield G, Invernizzi P, Jones D, Krawitt E, Lanzavecchia A, Lian ZX, Ma X, Manns M, Mavilio D, Quigley EM, Sallusto F, Shimoda S, Strazzabosco M, Swain M, Tanaka A, Trauner M, Tsuneyama K, Zigmond E, Gershwin ME. The challenges of primary biliary cholangitis: What is new and what needs to be done. J Autoimmun 2019; 105:102328. [PMID: 31548157 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is an uncommon, chronic, cholangiopathy of autoimmune origin and unknown etiology characterized by positive anti-mitochondrial autoantibodies (AMA), female preponderance and progression to cirrhosis if left untreated. The diagnosis is based on AMA- or PBC-specific anti-nuclear antibody (ANA)-positivity in the presence of a cholestatic biochemical profile, histologic confirmation being mandatory only in seronegative cases. First-line treatment is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which is effective in preventing disease progression in about two thirds of the patients. The only approved second-line treatment is obeticholic acid. This article summarizes the most relevant conclusions of a meeting held in Lugano, Switzerland, from September 23rd-25th 2018, gathering basic and clinical scientists with various background from around the world to discuss the latest advances in PBC research. The meeting was dedicated to Ian Mackay, pioneer in the field of autoimmune liver diseases. The role of liver histology needs to be reconsidered: liver pathology consistent with PBC in AMA-positive individuals without biochemical cholestasis is increasingly reported, raising the question as to whether biochemical cholestasis is a reliable disease marker for both clinical practice and trials. The urgent need for new biomarkers, including more accurate markers of cholestasis, was also widely discussed during the meeting. Moreover, new insights in interactions of bile acids with biliary epithelia in PBC provide solid evidence of a role for impaired epithelial protection against potentially toxic hydrophobic bile acids, raising the fundamental question as to whether this bile acid-induced epithelial damage is the cause or the consequence of the autoimmune attack to the biliary epithelium. Strategies are needed to identify difficult-to-treat patients at an early disease stage, when new therapeutic approaches targeting immunologic pathways, in addition to bile acid-based therapies, may be effective. In conclusion, using interdisciplinary approaches, groundbreaking advances can be expected before long in respect to our understanding of the etiopathogenesis of PBC, with the ultimate aim of improving its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli
- Epatocentro Ticino, Lugano, Switzerland; Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK; European Reference Network ERN RARE-LIVER.
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - John M Vierling
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation and Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David Adams
- Birmingham NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental SciencesMedical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- Indiana Center for Liver Research, Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center and Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jesus M Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), CIBERehd, Ikerbasque, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- European Reference Network ERN RARE-LIVER; Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Einar Björnsson
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Landspitali the National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Christopher Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milan-Bicocca School of Medicine, Monza, Italy
| | - Olivier Chazouillères
- European Reference Network ERN RARE-LIVER; Service d'Hépatologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| | - George Dalekos
- Institute of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Medicine and Research, Laboratory of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Andrea De Gottardi
- European Reference Network ERN RARE-LIVER; Epatocentro Ticino & Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale and Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Kenichi Harada
- Department of Human Pathology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Gideon Hirschfield
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- European Reference Network ERN RARE-LIVER; Division Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milan-Bicocca School of Medicine, Monza, Italy
| | - David Jones
- Institute of Cellular Medicine and NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Edward Krawitt
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | | | - Zhe-Xiong Lian
- Institutes for Life Sciences, South China University of Technology, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiong Ma
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Michael Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Italy
| | - Eamon Mm Quigley
- Lynda K. and David M. Underwood Center for Digestive Disorders, Houston Methodist Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical College, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Federica Sallusto
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Shinji Shimoda
- Medicine and Biosystemic Science, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver Center, Department of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mark Swain
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Koichi Tsuneyama
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Ehud Zigmond
- Research Center for Digestive Tract and Liver Diseases, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California, USA.
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15
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Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis is an archetypal autoimmune disease that causes cholestasis, fibrosis, and liver failure. Ursodeoxycholic acid and obeticholic acid are approved for its treatment. Not all patients respond, some are intolerant, many have ongoing symptoms, and new therapies are required. Herein we describe drugs in development and potential future biological targets. We consider compounds acting on the farnesoid X receptor/fibroblast growth factor 19 pathway, fibrates and other agonists of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor family, transmembrane-G-protein-receptor-5 agonists, and several immunological agents. We also consider the roles of bile acid reuptake inhibitors, nalfurafine, and fibrates in pruritus management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwilym J Webb
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Gideon M Hirschfield
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
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16
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Djaballah-Ider F, Djeraba Z, Chemli M, Dammene-Debbihe N, Lounis D, Belguendouz H, Medour Y, Chaib S, Touil-Boukoffa C. Influence of corticosteroid therapy on IL-18 and nitric oxide production during Behçet's disease. Inflammopharmacology 2018; 26:725-735. [PMID: 29600486 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-018-0472-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic multisystemic inflammatory disease with complex etiopathogenesis. Th1-proinflammatory cytokines seem to be involved in its pathogenesis. Our current study aims to evaluate interleukin-18 (IL-18) and nitric oxide (NO) involvement in the development of different clinical manifestations of BD as well as to investigate the corticosteroid therapy effect on this production in Algerian patients. METHODS For this purpose, we evaluated in vivo and ex vivo IL-18, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) levels using ELISA and NO production by the Griess' method in naïve-active and corticosteroid-treated BD patients with different clinical manifestations. Additionally, we assessed CD40/CD40L expression by flow cytometrics assay in these groups of patients. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Our results indicate that IL-18 and nitrite levels were higher in naïve-active BD patients. Interestingly, this high production differed according to the clinical manifestations and was associated with an increased risk of mucocutaneous and vascular involvement. Concerning corticosteroid treated-active BD patients, no difference was observed in this production between each clinical subgroup. However, IFN-γ levels increased in all categories of active patients. Interestingly, corticosteroid therapy reduced significantly these inflammatory mediators regardless of the clinical manifestations studied. In addition, the CD40/CD40L expression differed according to the clinical presentations. CONCLUSION Collectively, our results suggest that concomitant high production of IL-18 and NO in naïve-active BD patients is related to an increased risk of mucocutaneous lesions and vascular involvement. Moreover, the relationship between these two inflammatory markers could constitute a predictable tool of BD clinical presentations and an early factor of therapy efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zineb Djeraba
- Universite des Sciences et de la Technologie Houari Boumediene, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Mourad Chemli
- Service de Medecine Interne, Hopital Dr Md Seghir NEKKACHE, Algiers, Algeria
| | | | - Doulkifly Lounis
- Service de Medecine Interne, Hopital Dr Md Seghir NEKKACHE, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Houda Belguendouz
- Universite des Sciences et de la Technologie Houari Boumediene, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Yanis Medour
- Service d'Immunologie, Hopital Dr Md Seghir NEKKACHE, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Samia Chaib
- Service d'Immunologie, Hopital Dr Md Seghir NEKKACHE, Algiers, Algeria
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17
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Abstract
In most cholestatic liver diseases the primary cholestasis-causing lesions are located in the biliary tree and may be of (auto)immune origin. Bile salts are responsible for the secondary toxic consequences. Bile salt and nuclear hormone directed therapies primarily aim at improving this secondary toxic injury. In primary biliary cholangitis, trials show statistically significant responses on biochemical endpoints. Preclinical studies suggest that FXR- and PPAR-agonists, inhibitors of the apical sodium-dependent bile salt transporter (ASBT-inhibitors) and the C23 UDCA derivative nor-UDCA are promising agents for the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Area covered: Pharmaceuticals that interfere with bile salt signaling in humans for the treatment of chronic cholestatic liver disease are reviewed. Expert commentary: Nuclear hormone receptors, bile salt transport proteins and receptors provide targets for novel therapies of cholestatic liver disease. These drugs show positive results on biochemical endpoints. For histological endpoints, survival and transplant-free survival, long-term trials are needed. For relief of symptoms, such as fatigue and pruritus, these drugs have yet to prove their value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter L M Jansen
- a Maastricht Center for Systems Biology (MaCSBio) , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands.,b Academic Medical Center , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
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18
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Silveira MG, Lindor KD. Investigational drugs in phase II clinical trials for primary biliary cholangitis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2017; 26:1115-1121. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2017.1371135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marina G. Silveira
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Keith D. Lindor
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Office of the University Provost, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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19
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Jansen PLM, Ghallab A, Vartak N, Reif R, Schaap FG, Hampe J, Hengstler JG. The ascending pathophysiology of cholestatic liver disease. Hepatology 2017; 65:722-738. [PMID: 27981592 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In this review we develop the argument that cholestatic liver diseases, particularly primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), evolve over time with anatomically an ascending course of the disease process. The first and early lesions are in "downstream" bile ducts. This eventually leads to cholestasis, and this causes bile salt (BS)-mediated toxic injury of the "upstream" liver parenchyma. BS are toxic in high concentration. These concentrations are present in the canalicular network, bile ducts, and gallbladder. Leakage of bile from this network and ducts could be an important driver of toxicity. The liver has a great capacity to adapt to cholestasis, and this may contribute to a variable symptom-poor interval that is often observed. Current trials with drugs that target BS toxicity are effective in only about 50%-60% of primary biliary cholangitis patients, with no effective therapy in PSC. This motivated us to develop and propose a new view on the pathophysiology of primary biliary cholangitis and PSC in the hope that these new drugs can be used more effectively. These views may lead to better stratification of these diseases and to recommendations on a more "tailored" use of the new therapeutic agents that are currently tested in clinical trials. Apical sodium-dependent BS transporter inhibitors that reduce intestinal BS absorption lower the BS load and are best used in cholestatic patients. The effectiveness of BS synthesis-suppressing drugs, such as farnesoid X receptor agonists, is greatest when optimal adaptation is not yet established. By the time cytochrome P450 7A1 expression is reduced these drugs may be less effective. Anti-inflammatory agents are probably most effective in early disease, while drugs that antagonize BS toxicity, such as ursodeoxycholic acid and nor-ursodeoxycholic acid, may be effective at all disease stages. Endoscopic stenting in PSC should be reserved for situations of intercurrent cholestasis and cholangitis, not for cholestasis in end-stage disease. These are arguments to consider a step-wise pathophysiology for these diseases, with therapy adjusted to disease stage. An obstacle in such an approach is that disease stage-defining biomarkers are still lacking. This review is meant to serve as a call to prioritize the development of biomarkers that help to obtain a better stratification of these diseases. (Hepatology 2017;65:722-738).
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter L M Jansen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Surgery, NUTRIM School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Research Network of Liver Systems Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ahmed Ghallab
- Research Network of Liver Systems Medicine, Freiburg, Germany.,Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany.,Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Nachiket Vartak
- Research Network of Liver Systems Medicine, Freiburg, Germany.,Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Raymond Reif
- Research Network of Liver Systems Medicine, Freiburg, Germany.,Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Frank G Schaap
- Department of Surgery, NUTRIM School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jochen Hampe
- Research Network of Liver Systems Medicine, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Medicine 1, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jan G Hengstler
- Research Network of Liver Systems Medicine, Freiburg, Germany.,Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
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20
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Trivedi HD, Lizaola B, Tapper EB, Bonder A. Primary biliary cholangitis: new treatments for an old disease. Frontline Gastroenterol 2017; 8:29-36. [PMID: 28839882 PMCID: PMC5369441 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2016-100741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an immunological condition that causes a significant health disturbance and dramatically reduces the quality of life for those affected with the disease. It is a potentially fatal disease that can lead to multiple hepatic and extrahepatic complications. Having adequate therapeutic interventions that can improve the course of the disease is imperative in reducing the associated morbidity and mortality. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the gold standard therapy. However, it has been associated with suboptimal response rates in a significant proportion of patients. Despite UDCA, approximately 35%-40% of individuals with PBC still experience a progression of the disease, leading to liver failure and requiring liver transplantation. Recent studies of new pharmacological approaches have shown beneficial outcomes. Some of these agents can now be applied to a clinical scenario. In this review article, we will outline the new and emerging treatments for PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirsh D Trivedi
- Liver Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Blanca Lizaola
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Brighton, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elliot B Tapper
- Department of Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Alan Bonder
- Liver Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Ali AH, Tabibian JH, Carey EJ, Lindor KD. Emerging drugs for the treatment of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2016; 21:39-56. [PMID: 26901615 DOI: 10.1517/14728214.2016.1150999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune chronic disease of the liver that can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. It affects approximately 1 in 4,000 with a 10:1 female to male ratio. The diagnosis of PBC can be made based on serum antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) in a patient with abnormally high serum alkaline phosphatase after ruling out other causes of cholestasis and biliary obstruction. Genome-wide association studies have revealed several human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and non-HLA risk loci in PBC, and complex environmental-host immunogenetic interactions are believed to underlie the etiopathogenesis of the disease. Fatigue and pruritus are the most common and often problematic symptoms; although often mild, these can be severe and life-alternating in a subset of patients. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the only drug approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of PBC. Clinical trials have shown that UDCA significantly improves transplant-free survival. However, nearly 40% of PBC patients do not respond adequately to PBC and are at higher risk for serious complications when compared to PBC patients with complete response to UDCA. AREAS COVERED Here we provide a detailed discussion regarding novel therapeutic agents and potential areas for further investigation in PBC-related research. EXPERT OPINION Results of ongoing clinical trials and emerging treatment paradigms for PBC will likely further improve medical management of this disorder in the near future.
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22
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Adaptive immunity in the liver. Cell Mol Immunol 2016; 13:354-68. [PMID: 26996069 PMCID: PMC4856810 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2016.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The anatomical architecture of the human liver and the diversity of its immune components endow the liver with its physiological function of immune competence. Adaptive immunity is a major arm of the immune system that is organized in a highly specialized and systematic manner, thus providing long-lasting protection with immunological memory. Adaptive immunity consists of humoral immunity and cellular immunity. Cellular immunity is known to have a crucial role in controlling infection, cancer and autoimmune disorders in the liver. In this article, we will focus on hepatic virus infections, hepatocellular carcinoma and autoimmune disorders as examples to illustrate the current understanding of the contribution of T cells to cellular immunity in these maladies. Cellular immune suppression is primarily responsible for chronic viral infections and cancer. However, an uncontrolled auto-reactive immune response accounts for autoimmunity. Consequently, these immune abnormalities are ascribed to the quantitative and functional changes in adaptive immune cells and their subsets, innate immunocytes, chemokines, cytokines and various surface receptors on immune cells. A greater understanding of the complex orchestration of the hepatic adaptive immune regulators during homeostasis and immune competence are much needed to identify relevant targets for clinical intervention to treat immunological disorders in the liver.
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23
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Wu Y, Chen W, Chen H, Zhang L, Chang Y, Yan S, Dai X, Ma Y, Huang Q, Wei W. The Elevated Secreted Immunoglobulin D Enhanced the Activation of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Rheumatoid Arthritis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147788. [PMID: 26814717 PMCID: PMC4729477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin D (IgD) is a surface immunoglobulin that is expressed as either membrane IgD (mIgD) or secreted IgD (sIgD). Researchers have shown that sIgD is often elevated in patients with autoimmune diseases. The possible roles of sIgD on the function of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are still unclear. In this study, we compared the expression of sIgD, mIgD and IgD receptor (IgDR) in RA patients and healthy controls, and investigated the effect of sIgD on the function of PBMCs. We found that the levels of sIgD, mIgD and IgDR were significantly higher in RA patients compared with healthy controls. The concentrations of sIgD were positively correlated with soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (sRANKL), rheumatoid factor (RF) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in RA patients. Strikingly, IgD could enhance the proliferation of PBMCs and induce IL-1α, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10 production from PBMCs. Moreover, the percentage of activated T cell subsets (CD4+CD69+, CD4+CD154+) and activated B cell subsets (CD19+CD23+, CD19+CD21+, CD19+IgD+ and CD19-CD138+) were increased by IgD. The percentage of unactivated T cell subset (CD4+CD62L+) and immature B cell subset (CD19+IgM+IgD-) were decreased by IgD in PBMCs. Furthermore, the expressions of IgDR on T and B cells were significantly increased by treatment with IgD. Our results demonstrate that IgD enhanced the activation of PBMCs, which may contribute to RA pathogenesis. Therefore, IgD could be a potential novel immunotherapeutic target for the management of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Wu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Wensheng Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Hengshi Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Lingling Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yan Chang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Shangxue Yan
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Xing Dai
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yang Ma
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Qiong Huang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
- * E-mail: (WW); (QH)
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, 230032, China
- * E-mail: (WW); (QH)
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24
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Zhang AP, Yang JH. Advances in understanding pathogenesis of primary biliary cholangitis. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2016; 24:169-175. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v24.i2.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease characterized by chronic and progressive cholestasis. In recent years, the incidence and prevalence of PBC are increasing year by year. However, the etiology and pathogenesis are not fully understood. It is believed that genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, and immunologic tolerance are related with the pathogenesis of PBC. This article reviews the progress in the understanding of the pathogenesis of PBC.
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Wang J, Yang G, Dubrovsky AM, Choi J, Leung PSC. Xenobiotics and loss of tolerance in primary biliary cholangitis. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:338-348. [PMID: 26755880 PMCID: PMC4698496 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i1.338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 08/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Data from genome wide association studies and geoepidemiological studies established that a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental stimulation is required for the loss of tolerance in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). The serologic hallmark of PBC are the presence of high titer anti-mitochondrial autoantibodies (AMA) that recognize the lipoyl domain of the mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase E2 (PDC-E2) subunit. Extensive efforts have been directed to investigate the molecular basis of AMA. Recently, experimental data has pointed to the thesis that the breaking of tolerance to PDC-E2 is a pivotal event in the initial etiology of PBC, including environmental xenobiotics including those commonly found in cosmetics and food additives, suggesting that chemical modification of the PDC-E2 epitope may render its vulnerable to become a neo-antigen and trigger an immune response in genetically susceptible hosts. Here, we will discuss the natural history, genetics and immunobiology of PBC and structural constraints of PDC-E2 in AMA recognition which makes it vulnerable to chemical modification.
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Beuers U, Gershwin ME. Unmet challenges in immune-mediated hepatobiliary diseases. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2016; 48:127-31. [PMID: 25820618 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-015-8484-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
It is ironic that the liver, which serves a critical function in immune tolerance, itself becomes the victim of an autoimmune attack. Indeed, liver autoimmunity and the autoimmune diseases associated with both innate and adaptive responses to hepatocytes and/or cholangiocytes are models of human autoimmunity. For example, in primary biliary cirrhosis, there exists a well-defined and characteristic autoantibody and considerable homogeneity between patients. In autoimmune hepatitis, there are clinical characteristics that allow a rigorous subset definition and well-defined inflammatory infiltrates. In both cases, there are defects in a variety of immune pathways and including regulatory cells. In primary sclerosing cholangitis, with its characteristic overlap with inflammatory bowel disease, there are unique defects in innate immunity and particular important contribution of lymphoid homing to disease pathogenesis. In these diseases, as with other human autoimmune processes, there is the critical understanding that pathogenesis requires a genetic background, but is determined by environmental features, and indeed the concordance of these diseases in identical twins highlights the stochastic nature of immunopathology. Unfortunately, despite major advances in basic immunology and in immunopathology in these diseases, there remains a major void in therapy. The newer biologics that are so widely used in rheumatology, neurology, and gastroenterology have not yet seen success in autoimmune liver disease. Future efforts will depend on more rigorous molecular biology and systems analysis in order for successful application to be made to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22600, 1100 DD, Amsterdam, The Netherlands,
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Floreani A, Franceschet I, Cazzagon N, Spinazzè A, Buja A, Furlan P, Baldo V, Gershwin ME. Extrahepatic autoimmune conditions associated with primary biliary cirrhosis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2016; 48:192-7. [PMID: 24809534 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-014-8427-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
There is a paucity of information on extrahepatic autoimmune (EHA) conditions associated with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and on the impact of EHA conditions on PBC patients' survival. Our goal was to assess the association between PBC and other autoimmune diseases and the impact of EHA conditions on the natural history of PBC. We took advantage of 361 consecutive PBC patients enrolled between 1975 and 2012 (22 males, 339 females; mean follow-up 8 ± 6.9 years). Any associated EHA conditions, PBC histological stage at diagnosis, biochemical data, physiological history, and extrahepatic malignancies developing during the follow-up were recorded. Survival was analyzed by means of Kaplan-Meier curves. Importantly, 221 patients (61.2 %) had at least one EHA conditions: 45 patients (20.4 %) had Hashimoto thyroiditis; 7 (3.2 %) had Graves' thyroiditis; 65 (29.4 %) had Raynaud's phenomenon; 124 (56.1 %) had Sjogren's syndrome; 8 (3.6 %) had systemic lupus erythematosus; 22 (9.9 %) had scleroderma; 22 (9.9 %) had rheumatoid arthritis; 18 (8.1 %) had cutaneous autoimmune diseases; 8 (3.6 %) had vasculitis; 5 (1.4 %) had celiac disease; and 25 (13.1 %) had other EHA conditions. The proportion of patients with associated EHA conditions enrolled during representative periods (1975-1980, 1981-1990, 1991-2000, 2001-2010, 2011-2012) remained stable. No differences emerged between patients with versus without EHA conditions in terms of mean age at PBC diagnosis, antimitochondrial antibody (AMA), or antinuclear antibody (ANA) positivity, histological stage at diagnosis, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, or BMI >25. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that only female gender was significantly associated with positivity for EHA conditions (OR 4.8; 95 % CI 1.6-13.7, p = 0.004). The mean survival after the diagnosis of PBC was much the same in patients with and without EHA conditions. In conclusion, EHA conditions are often associated with PBC, especially in female patients, but they do not reduce patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology-DiSCOG, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy,
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Sun Y, Haapanen K, Li B, Zhang W, Van de Water J, Gershwin ME. Women and primary biliary cirrhosis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2016; 48:285-300. [PMID: 25241227 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-014-8449-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis occurs more frequently in women, and previous studies indicated that the average age of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) onset makes pregnancy in PBC patients uncommon. However, more recently, improved diagnostic testing has enabled detection of PBC in younger women, including those of childbearing age. This has led investigators to become increasingly interested in the relationship between the ontogeny of PBC and pregnancy. Published cases indicate that the typical age for pregnant women to be diagnosed with PBC is in the early 30s, and that during gestation, pruritus and jaundice are the most common symptoms. During gestation, susceptible women may experience onset of PBC resulting from the drastic changes in female hormones; this would include not only the mitochondrial damage due to accumulation of bile acids but also changes in the immune response during the different stages of pregnancy that might play an important role in the breakdown of self-tolerance. The mechanisms underlying the potential relationship between PBC and pregnancy warrant further investigation. For women first diagnosed with PBC during gestation, or those for whom first appearance of a flare up occurs during and postpartum, investigation of the immune response throughout gestation could provide new avenues for immunologic therapeutic intervention and the discovery of new treatment strategies for PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Sun
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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Trivedi PJ, Hirschfield GM, Gershwin ME. Obeticholic acid for the treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2015; 9:13-26. [PMID: 26549695 DOI: 10.1586/17512433.2015.1092381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is characterized by progressive nonsuppurative destruction of small bile ducts, resulting in intrahepatic cholestasis, fibrosis and ultimately end-stage liver disease. Timely intervention with ursodeoxycholic acid is associated with excellent survival, although approximately one-third of all patients fail to achieve biochemical response, signifying a critical need for additional therapeutic strategies. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a potent ligand of the nuclear hormone receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Activation of FXR inhibits bile acid synthesis and protects against toxic accumulation in models of cholestasis and facilitates hepatic regeneration in preclinical studies. Data from recent Phase II and III controlled trials suggest a therapeutic impact of OCA in PBC biochemical nonresponders, as evidenced by change in proven laboratory surrogates of long-term outcome. Dose-dependent pruritus is a common adverse effect, but may be overcome through dose-titration. Longer term studies are needed with focus on safety and long-term clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palak J Trivedi
- a National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit (BRU), Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, 5th Floor IBR Building , Wolfson Drive, University of Birmingham , UK
| | - Gideon M Hirschfield
- a National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit (BRU), Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, 5th Floor IBR Building , Wolfson Drive, University of Birmingham , UK
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- b Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis , California , Birmingham , USA
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30
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Tanaka H, Yang GX, Tomiyama T, Tsuneyama K, Zhang W, Leung PSC, Coppel RL, Joh T, Nadler SG, Ansari AA, Bowlus C, Gershwin ME. Immunological potential of cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 immunoglobulin in murine autoimmune cholangitis. Clin Exp Immunol 2015; 180:371-82. [PMID: 25581259 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) immunoglobulin (Ig) is an important regulator of T cell activation and a fusion protein directed at CD80 and CD86; it blocks co-stimulatory signalling and T cell activation. We have taken advantage of a murine model of human primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), mice expressing a transforming growth factor (TGF)-β receptor II dominant negative (dnTGF-βRII) transgene to address the potential therapeutic efficacy of CTLA-4 Ig. To mimic patients with PBC at different stages or duration of disease, we treated mice with either CTLA-4 Ig or control IgG three times weekly from 3 to 12 or 24 weeks of age, or from 12 to 24 weeks of age. CTLA-4 Ig treatment from 3 weeks of age significantly reduced liver inflammation to 12 weeks of age. Treatment initiated at 12 weeks of age also ameliorated the autoimmune cholangitis at 24 weeks of age. However, in mice treated at 3 weeks of age, suppression of liver inflammation was not sustained and colitis was aggravated when treatment was extended to 24 weeks of age. Our data indicate that, in dnTGF-βRII mice, CTLA-4 Ig treatment has short-term beneficial effects on autoimmune cholangitis, but the effect varies according to duration of treatment and the time in which therapy was initiated. Further dissection of the events that lead to the reduction in therapeutic effectiveness of CTLA-4 Ig will be critical to determining whether such efforts can be applied to human PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Tanaka
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - G-X Yang
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - T Tomiyama
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,Third Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - K Tsuneyama
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Science for Research, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - W Zhang
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - P S C Leung
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - R L Coppel
- Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - T Joh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - S G Nadler
- Department of Immunology, Bristol Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - A A Ansari
- Department of Pathology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - C Bowlus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - M E Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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Islam AD, Selmi C, Datta-Mitra A, Sonu R, Chen M, Gershwin ME, Raychaudhuri SP. The changing faces of IgG4-related disease: Clinical manifestations and pathogenesis. Autoimmun Rev 2015; 14:914-22. [PMID: 26112170 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2015.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Since the earliest reports in 2001, immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related disease has been defined as an autoimmune systemic disease characterized by the lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of affected tissues leading to fibrosis and obliterative phlebitis along with elevated serum IgG4 levels. Prior to this unifying hypothesis, a plethora of clinical manifestations were considered as separate entities despite the similar laboratory profile. The pathology can be observed in virtually all organs and may thus be a challenging diagnosis, especially when the adequate clinical suspicion is not present or when obtaining a tissue biopsy is not feasible. Nonetheless, the most frequently involved organs are the pancreas and exocrine glands but these may be spared. Immunosuppressants lead to a prompt clinical response in virtually all cases and prevent histological sequelae and, as a consequence, an early differential diagnosis from other conditions, particularly infections and cancer, as well as an early treatment should be pursued. We describe herein two cases in which atypical disease manifestations were observed, i.e., one with recurrent neck lymph node enlargement and proptosis, and one with jaundice. Our understanding of the pathogenesis of IgG4-related disease is largely incomplete but data support a significant role for Th2 cytokines with the contribution of innate immunity factors such as Toll-like receptors, macrophages and basophils. Further, macrophages activated by IL4 overexpress B cell activating factors and contribute to chronic inflammation and the development of fibrosis. We cannot rule out the possibility that the largely variable disease phenotypes reflect different pathogenetic mechanisms and the tissue microenvironment may then contribute to the organ involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshia Duza Islam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA; VA Medical Center Sacramento, Mather, CA, USA
| | - Carlo Selmi
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy; BIOMETRA Department, University of Milan, Italy
| | | | - Rebecca Sonu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Mingyi Chen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Siba P Raychaudhuri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA; VA Medical Center Sacramento, Mather, CA, USA.
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32
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The autoimmune basis of alopecia areata: A comprehensive review. Autoimmun Rev 2015; 14:81-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2014.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Webb GJ, Hirschfield GM. Follicles, germinal centers, and immune mechanisms in primary biliary cirrhosis. Hepatology 2015; 61:424-7. [PMID: 25294750 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gwilym J Webb
- Center for Liver Research and NIHR Biomedical Research Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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34
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Hauff P, Gottwald U, Ocker M. Early to Phase II drugs currently under investigation for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 24:309-27. [PMID: 25547844 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2015.997874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic liver diseases represent a high unmet medical need and are characterized by persistent inflammation, parenchymal damage and fibrotic remodeling, leading eventually to cirrhosis and hepatic failure. Besides the persisting high prevalence of chronic viral hepatitis B and C, the dramatic increase in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is now considered to be a major pathophysiologic driver for fibrosis development and subsequently cirrhosis. Increasing evidence suggests that also liver cirrhosis can regress when treated adequately. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors review the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms leading to fibrotic remodeling in the liver. They also highlight the options for novel treatment strategies by using molecular targeted agents. EXPERT OPINION New in vitro and preclinical animal models, and the careful selection of patients with high disease dynamics for clinical studies, provide a sound basis for the clinical development of antifibrotic agents in humans. Surrogate parameters of liver function, inflammation, tissue remodeling and damage, as well as noninvasive imaging techniques, can be applied in clinical trials to provide fast readouts and novel and reliable endpoints for trial design, and provide an attractive regulatory environment for this emerging disease area.
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Mousa HS, Lleo A, Invernizzi P, Bowlus CL, Gershwin ME. Advances in pharmacotherapy for primary biliary cirrhosis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2014; 16:633-43. [PMID: 25543678 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2015.998650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease mostly seen in middle-aged women characterized by progressive nonsuppurative destruction of small bile ducts resulting in intrahepatic cholestasis, parenchymal injury and ultimately end-stage liver disease. Despite major breakthroughs in our understanding of PBC, there remains only one FDA-approved agent for treatment: ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) to which one-third of patients are unresponsive. AREAS COVERED Biochemical response to treatment with UDCA is associated with excellent survival rates in PBC patients. However, there is a need for alternative treatments for nonresponders. Results from human epidemiological and genetic studies as well as preclinical studies in PBC animal models have provided a strong impetus for the development of new therapeutic agents. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in translational research in PBC focusing on promising therapeutic approaches, namely immune-based targeted therapies and agents targeting the synthesis and circulation of bile acids. EXPERT OPINION We are in a new era for the development of novel therapies for PBC. Data on fibrates, budesonide and obeticholic acid offer encouragement for nonresponders to UDCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani S Mousa
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Liver Unit and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases , Rozzano (MI) , Italy
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36
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Tanaka H, Zhang W, Yang GX, Ando Y, Tomiyama T, Tsuneyama K, Leung P, Coppel RL, Ansari AA, Lian ZX, Ridgway WM, Joh T, Gershwin ME. Successful immunotherapy of autoimmune cholangitis by adoptive transfer of forkhead box protein 3(+) regulatory T cells. Clin Exp Immunol 2014; 178:253-61. [PMID: 25041369 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) has lagged behind that of other autoimmune diseases. In this study we have addressed the potential utility of immunotherapy using regulatory T cells (Treg ) to treat murine autoimmune cholangitis. In particular, we have taken advantage of our ability to produce portal inflammation and bile duct cell loss by transfer of CD8(+) T cells from the dominant negative form of transforming growth factor beta receptor type II (dnTGF-βRII) mice to recombination-activating gene (Rag)1(-/-) recipients. We then used this robust established adoptive transfer system and co-transferred CD8(+) T cells from dnTGF-βRII mice with either C57BL/6 or dnTGF-βRII forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3(+) ) T cells. Recipient mice were monitored for histology, including portal inflammation and intralobular biliary cell damage, and also included a study of the phenotypical changes in recipient lymphoid populations and local and systemic cytokine production. Importantly, we report herein that adoptive transfer of Treg from C57BL/6 but not dnTGF-βRII mice significantly reduced the pathology of autoimmune cholangitis, including decreased portal inflammation and bile duct damage as well as down-regulation of the secondary inflammatory response. Further, to define the mechanism of action that explains the differential ability of C57BL/6 Treg versus dnTGF-βRII Treg on the ability to down-regulate autoimmune cholangitis, we noted significant differential expression of glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP), CD73, CD101 and CD103 and a functionally significant increase in interleukin (IL)-10 in Treg from C57BL/6 compared to dnTGF-βRII mice. Our data reflect the therapeutic potential of wild-type CD4(+) FoxP3(+) Treg in reducing the excessive T cell responses of autoimmune cholangitis, which has significance for the potential immunotherapy of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Tanaka
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
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37
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Chang CH, Chen YC, Yu YH, Tao MH, Leung PSC, Ansari AA, Gershwin ME, Chuang YH. Innate immunity drives xenobiotic-induced murine autoimmune cholangitis. Clin Exp Immunol 2014; 177:373-80. [PMID: 24547942 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is considered a model autoimmune disease, it has not responded therapeutically to traditional immunosuppressive agents. In addition, PBC may recur following liver transplantation, despite the absence of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) matching, in sharp contrast to the well-known paradigm of MHC restriction. We have suggested previously that invariant natural killer T (iNK T) cells are critical to the initiation of PBC. In this study we have taken advantage of our ability to induce autoimmune cholangitis with 2-octynoic acid, a common component of cosmetics, conjugated to bovine serum albumin (2-OA-BSA), and studied the natural history of pathology in mice genetically deleted for CD4 or CD8 following immunization with 2-OA-BSA in the presence or absence of α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). In particular, we address whether autoimmune cholangitis can be induced in the absence of traditional CD4 and CD8 responses. We report herein that CD4 and CD8 knock-out mice immunized with 2-OA-BSA/PBS or 2-OA-BSA/α-GalCer develop anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMAs), portal infiltrates and fibrosis. Indeed, our data suggest that the innate immunity is critical for immunopathology and that the pathology is exacerbated in the presence of α-GalCer. In conclusion, these data provide not only an explanation for the recurrence of PBC following liver transplantation in the absence of MHC compatibility, but also suggest that effective therapies for PBC must include blocking of both innate and adaptive pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-H Chang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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38
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Shu SA, Wang J, Tao MH, Leung PSC. Gene Therapy for Autoimmune Disease. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2014; 49:163-76. [DOI: 10.1007/s12016-014-8451-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Mechanisms of tissue injury in autoimmune liver diseases. Semin Immunopathol 2014; 36:553-68. [PMID: 25082647 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-014-0439-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases affecting the liver are mainly represented by autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). The characteristic morphologic patterns of injury are a chronic hepatitis pattern of damage in AIH, destruction of small intrahepatic bile ducts in PBC and periductal fibrosis and inflammation involving larger bile ducts in PSC. The factors responsible for initiation and perpetuation of the injury in all the three autoimmune liver diseases are not understood completely but are likely to be environmental triggers on the background of genetic variation in immune regulation. In this review, we summarise the current understanding of the mechanisms underlying the breakdown of self-tolerance in autoimmune liver diseases.
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