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Yuan Q, Fang Y, Guo J, Zhang Z, Liao J, Kuang J. Therapeutic potential and mechanisms of Rifaximin in ameliorating iron overload-induced ferroptosis and liver fibrosis in vivo and in vitro. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 484:116845. [PMID: 38331104 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.116845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis could progress to liver cirrhosis with several contributing factors, one being iron overload which triggers ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death. Rifaximin, a non-absorbable antibiotic, has shown promise in mitigating fibrosis, primarily by modulating gut microbiota. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of rifaximin on iron overload-related hepatic fibrosis and ferroptosis. In an iron overload-induced liver fibrosis model in mice and in ferric ammonium citrate (FAC)-stimulated primary hepatocytes, treatment with rifaximin showed significant therapeutic effects. Specifically, it ameliorated the processes of ferroptosis triggered by iron overload, reduced liver injury, and alleviated fibrosis. This was demonstrated by decreased iron accumulation in the liver, improved liver function, and reduced fibrotic area and collagen deposition. Rifaximin also modulated key proteins related to iron homeostasis and ferroptosis, including reduced expression of TFR1, a protein facilitating cellular iron uptake, and increased expression of Fpn and FTH, proteins involved in iron export and storage. In the context of oxidative stress, rifaximin treatment led to a decrease in lipid peroxidation, evidenced by reduced levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and an increase in the reduced glutathione (GSH) and decrease in oxidized glutathione (GSSG). Notably, rifaximin's potential functions were associated with the TGF-β pathway, evidenced by suppressed Tgfb1 protein levels and ratios of phosphorylated to total Smad2 and Smad3, whereas increased Smad7 phosphorylation. These findings indicate rifaximin's therapeutic potential in managing liver fibrosis by modulating the TGF-β pathway and reducing iron overload-induced damage. Further research is required to confirm these results and explore their clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Yuan
- Department of Hepatopathy, The Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of Hepatopathy, The Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, China.
| | - Jingyun Guo
- Department of Hepatopathy, The Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Department of Hepatopathy, The Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, China
| | - Jinmao Liao
- Department of Hepatopathy, The Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, China
| | - Jia Kuang
- Department of Hepatopathy, The Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, China
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Zaman T, Ahmed Attari MB, Ahmad A, Butt MA, Fayyaz K, Zubair SA. Comparison of Rifaximin Alone and With Quinolones in the Primary Prevention of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Patients With Decompensated Chronic Liver Disease. Cureus 2024; 16:e55251. [PMID: 38558603 PMCID: PMC10981471 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In cirrhotic patients with ascites, primary prevention of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a key strategy to lower morbidity and death. Rifaximin and fluoroquinolone used alternately as main prophylaxis are as effective as reported. This study aimed to compare the frequency of occurrence of SBP in patients with decompensated chronic liver disease treated with rifaximin alone and in combination with fluoroquinolone. Methodology A total of 76 patients with hepatitis C virus-related decompensated chronic liver disease and ascites were divided into two groups based on matching age, sex, and Child-Pugh class. Group A (38 patients) received rifaximin 1,100 mg/day in two divided doses with daily fluoroquinolone 400 mg/day, whereas group B (38 patients) received rifaximin 1,100 mg/day alone as a two dosage. The patients were monitored for up to three months. The study's endpoints were SBP, hepatocellular carcinoma, compliance failure, death, or liver transplantation. Results In this comparative study involving 76 patients, the demographic and clinical characteristics were assessed across two treatment groups: rifaximin alone (n = 38) and rifaximin with fluoroquinolone (n = 38). The combination therapy demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in SBP compared to rifaximin alone. Additionally, the overall survival rate was higher in the combination group. These findings suggest potential benefits of the combined approach in managing hepatic encephalopathy-related complications. Conclusions When compared to rifaximin alone for primary SBP prophylaxis, the combination of rifaximin with fluoroquinolone exhibited greater effectiveness with the same safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahir Zaman
- Department of Medicine, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore, PAK
| | | | - Adeel Ahmad
- Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Chelsea, GBR
| | | | - Khurram Fayyaz
- Department of Medicine, Azra Naheed Medical College, Lahore, PAK
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3
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Chi X, Sun X, Cheng D, Liu S, Q. Pan C, Xing H. Intestinal microbiome-targeted therapies improve liver function in alcohol-related liver disease by restoring bifidobacteria: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1274261. [PMID: 38259268 PMCID: PMC10800551 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1274261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: To systematically evaluate the efficacy of intestinal microbiome-targeted therapies (MTTs) in alcohol-related liver disease (ALD). Methods: With pre-specified keywords and strategies, we searched databases including Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and Weipu for RCTs on intestinal MTTs in ALD patients from January 2000 to May 2021. Two researchers independently conducted literature screening, data extraction, and quality evaluation according to the eligible criteria. Outcomes of interest included the effects of intestinal MTTs on ALT, AST, GGT, TBIL, TNF-α, IL-6, intestinal Escherichia coli, and Bifidobacteria when compared to the control group. Pooled data were compiled and analyzed with Revman 5.4 software. Results: Among 5 RCTs included with 456 ALD patients who received probiotics, the therapeutic pooled effects in the experimental group were the followings: ALT (MD = -7.16.95% CI: 10.71∼-3.60; p < 0.0001)、AST (MD = -25.11.95% CI: 30.57∼-19.47; p < 0.00001)、GGT (MD = -6.72.95% CI: 11.91∼-1.53; p = 0.01)、IL-6(SMD = -0.82.95% CI: 1.10∼-0.54; p < 0.00001), which were significantly better than those in the placebo or standard treatment group respectively, while the difference of TBIL (SMD = -0.06, 95%CI: 0.29-0.16; p = 0.59), TNF-α(SMD = -0.53.95% CI: 1.57-0.50; p = 0.31)in the two groups was not significant. After intestinal MTT treatment, the number of intestinal Bifidobacteria increased significantly (MD = 0.79.95% CI: 0.00-1.58; p = 0.05)in the experimental group. However, there were no significant changes in the number of E. coli in both groups (SMD = -0.29.95% CI: 0.92-0.34; p = 0.36). Conclusion: Intestinal MTTs can significantly improve liver function, associated with the increase of intestinal Bifidobacteria, which may be beneficial to ALD. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021246067, Identifier CRD42021246067.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chi
- Center of Liver Diseases Division, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Xiu Sun
- Center of Liver Diseases Division, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Danying Cheng
- Center of Liver Diseases Division, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
- Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shunai Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Calvin Q. Pan
- Center of Liver Diseases Division, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NYU Langone Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Huichun Xing
- Center of Liver Diseases Division, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
- Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
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4
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Parisse S, Lai Q, Martini F, Martini A, Ferri F, Mischitelli M, Melandro F, Mennini G, Rossi M, Alvaro D, Ginanni Corradini S. Rifaximin Reduces Risk of All-Cause Hospitalization in Cirrhotic Liver Transplant Candidates with Hepatic Encephalopathy. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6871. [PMID: 37959336 PMCID: PMC10647372 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In cirrhotic patients listed for liver transplantation (LT) with a history of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), rifaximin reduces the number of hospitalizations, but whether it influences the time to first hospitalization is unknown. AIMS to evaluate the time-dependent impact of rifaximin on the risk of all-cause hospitalization and dropout in patients on the LT waiting list. METHODS Consecutive patients listed for LT were retrospectively enrolled. After balancing populations with and without rifaximin treatment using the inverse probability therapy weighting analysis, Fine-Gray multivariable competing risk analyses were run to explore risk factors for the first episode of hospitalization and dropout. RESULTS When comparing 92 patients taking rifaximin to the untreated group of 152, rifaximin treatment was not associated with any of the study outcomes. In the subset of patients with a history of HE at waitlist entry (N = 81 rifaximin-treated and N = 39 untreated), rifaximin intake was independently associated with a lower risk of hospitalization for all causes (SHR 0.638; 95.0% CI 0.418-0.973; p = 0.037) and for HE (SHR 0.379; 95.0% CI 0.207-0.693; p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS cirrhotic LT candidates with a prior history of HE rifaximin treatment are associated with a lower risk of time-dependent all-cause hospitalization, likely due to its unique effect on gut microbiome composition/function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Parisse
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (F.M.); (A.M.); (F.F.); (M.M.); (D.A.)
| | - Quirino Lai
- General Surgery and Organ Transplantation Unit, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (Q.L.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Francesca Martini
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (F.M.); (A.M.); (F.F.); (M.M.); (D.A.)
| | - Alice Martini
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (F.M.); (A.M.); (F.F.); (M.M.); (D.A.)
| | - Flaminia Ferri
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (F.M.); (A.M.); (F.F.); (M.M.); (D.A.)
| | - Monica Mischitelli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (F.M.); (A.M.); (F.F.); (M.M.); (D.A.)
| | - Fabio Melandro
- General Surgery and Organ Transplantation Unit, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (Q.L.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Gianluca Mennini
- General Surgery and Organ Transplantation Unit, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (Q.L.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Massimo Rossi
- General Surgery and Organ Transplantation Unit, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (Q.L.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (F.M.); (A.M.); (F.F.); (M.M.); (D.A.)
| | - Stefano Ginanni Corradini
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (F.M.); (A.M.); (F.F.); (M.M.); (D.A.)
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5
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Testino G, Bottaro LC, Andorno E, Bandini F, Balbinot P, Beltramini S, Bottino S, Caltabellotta M, Caputo F, Caviglia E, Curone P, DI Biagio A, Gagliano C, Gandolfo N, Pestarino L, Rollero A, Romairone E, Sampietro L, Torre E, Zuccarelli S, Pellicano R. Hepatic encephalophaty: management and diagnostic therapeutic assistance path of Ligurian Local Health Company 3 (ASL3). Minerva Med 2023; 114:698-718. [PMID: 36952221 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.22.08408-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalophaty (HE) is a neuropsychiatric syndrome with a prevalence in the cirrhotic population ranging from 20 to 80%. HE is a cause of inappropriate hospitalization, caregiver burdening and increased social costs. There is need to create dedicated care pathways to better manage patients and support family caregivers. The data used for the preparation of this diagnostic therapeutic assistance path (DTAP) are based on a detailed analysis of the scientific literature published before June 30, 2022 (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar). Furthermore, in the process of developing this work, we consulted in particular the guidelines/ position papers of International Society for Hepatic Encephalopathy and Nitrogen Metabolism (ISHEN), Italian Association for the Study of the Liver (AISF), European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), Italian Society on Alcohol (Società Italiana di Alcologia [SIA]) and other relevant papers. DTAP was created based on the most recent recommendations of the international scientific literature. The present DTAP highlight the need for a multidisciplinary activity integrated with territorial medicine in close connection with caregivers. This guarantees improved therapeutic adherence, hospital readmission reduction, improved quality of life for patients and caregivers and a significant reduction in costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianni Testino
- Addiction and Hepatology Unit/Alcohological Regional Centre and Study Centre "Self Help, Community Program and Caregiver Training" ASL3, Genoa, Italy -
| | | | - Enzo Andorno
- Liver Transplantation Unit, San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Balbinot
- Addiction and Hepatology Unit/Alcohological Regional Centre and Study Centre "Self Help, Community Program and Caregiver Training" ASL3, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Fabio Caputo
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for the Study and Treatment of Chronic Inflammatory Intestinal Diseases (IBD) and Gastroenterological Manifestations of Rare Diseases, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for the Study and Treatment of Alcohol-Related Diseases, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Santissima Annunziata Hospital, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio DI Biagio
- Department of Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases Clinic, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Enrico Torre
- Unit of Endocrinology, Metabolic Diseases and Diabetology, ASL3 Liguria, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Rinaldo Pellicano
- Unit of Gastroenterology, Molinette Hospital, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
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Greinert R, Zipprich A, Casper M, Reichert MC, Lammert F, Ripoll C. Presence of NOD2 mutations is not associated with hepatic or systemic hemodynamic abnormalities of cirrhosis. Dig Liver Dis 2023; 55:1362-1367. [PMID: 37321912 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2023.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with cirrhosis who carry NOD2 mutations are susceptible to bacterial infections. The aim was to evaluate the association of NOD2 mutations with hepatic and systemic hemodynamics in cirrhosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS This is a secondary analysis of a prospectively collected database in the context of the screening for the INCA trial (EudraCT 2013-001626-26). This cross-sectional study compared hemodynamic findings according to NOD2 status in 215 patients. Patients were genotyped for NOD2 variants (p.N289S, p.R702W, p.G908R, c.3020insC, rs72796367). Hepatic hemodynamic study and right heart catheterization were performed. RESULTS Patients had a median age of 59 (IQR 53-66) years, and 144 (67%) were men. Most patients (64%) were Child-Pugh stage B. Sixty-six patients (31%) carried a NOD2 mutation, which was slightly more common among Child-Pugh stage C (p = 0.05), without differences in MELD [wild-type: 13 (10-16); NOD2 variants 13 (10-18)]. No differences in hepatic and systemic hemodynamics were observed according to NOD2 status. If excluding patients on prophylactic or therapeutic antibiotics, again no association between hepatic or systemic hemodynamics and NOD2 status could be observed. CONCLUSION NOD2 mutations are not associated with hepatic or systemic hemodynamic abnormalities in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, suggesting that other mechanisms leading to bacterial translocation predominate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Greinert
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | | | - Markus Casper
- Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | | | - Frank Lammert
- Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany; Health Sciences, Hannover Medical School MHH, Hannover, Germany
| | - Cristina Ripoll
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
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Maslennikov R, Alieva A, Poluektova E, Zharikov Y, Suslov A, Letyagina Y, Vasileva E, Levshina A, Kozlov E, Ivashkin V. Sarcopenia in cirrhosis: Prospects for therapy targeted to gut microbiota. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:4236-4251. [PMID: 37545638 PMCID: PMC10401661 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i27.4236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Decreased muscle mass and function, also known as sarcopenia, is common in patients with cirrhosis and is associated with a poor prognosis. Although the pathogenesis of this disorder has not been fully elucidated, a disordered gut-muscle axis probably plays an important role. Decreased barrier function of the gut and liver, gut dysbiosis, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) can lead to increased blood levels of ammonia, lipopolysaccharides, pro-inflammatory mediators, and myostatin. These factors have complex negative effects on muscle mass and function. Drug interventions that target the gut microbiota (long-term use of rifaximin, lactulose, lactitol, or probiotics) positively affect most links of the compromised gut-muscle axis in patients with cirrhosis by decreasing the levels of hyperammonemia, bacterial translocation, and systemic inflammation and correcting gut dysbiosis and SIBO. However, although these drugs are promising, they have not yet been investigated in randomized controlled trials specifically for the treatment and prevention of sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis. No data exist on the effects of fecal transplantation on most links of gut-muscle axis in cirrhosis; however, the results of animal experimental studies are promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Maslennikov
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- The Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Aliya Alieva
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Elena Poluektova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- The Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Yury Zharikov
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Andrey Suslov
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Yana Letyagina
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Vasileva
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Anna Levshina
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Sechenov University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Evgenii Kozlov
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Sechenov University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Vladimir Ivashkin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- The Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
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Bitto N, Ghigliazza G, Lavorato S, Caputo C, La Mura V. Improving Management of Portal Hypertension: The Potential Benefit of Non-Etiological Therapies in Cirrhosis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12030934. [PMID: 36769582 PMCID: PMC9917703 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12030934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension is the consequence of cirrhosis and results from increased sinusoidal vascular resistance and hepatic blood inflow. Etiological therapies represent the first intervention to prevent a significant increase in portal pressure due to chronic liver damage. However, other superimposed pathophysiological drivers may worsen liver disease, including inflammation, bacterial translocation, endothelial dysfunction, and hyperactivation of hemostasis. These mechanisms can be targeted by a specific class of drugs already used in clinical practice. Albumin, rifaximin, statins, aspirin, and anticoagulants have been tested in cirrhosis and were a topic of discussion in the last Baveno consensus as non-etiological therapies. Based on the pathogenesis of portal hypertension in cirrhosis, our review summarizes the main mechanisms targeted by these drugs as well as the clinical evidence that considers them a valid complementary option to manage patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Bitto
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriele Ghigliazza
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Division of Sub-Intensive Care Medicine, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Stanislao Lavorato
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Camilla Caputo
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzo La Mura
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence:
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9
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Wakil A, Niazi M, Meybodi MA, Pyrsopoulos NT. Emerging Pharmacotherapies in Alcohol-Associated Hepatitis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:116-126. [PMID: 36647403 PMCID: PMC9840076 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of alcoholic-associated hepatitis (AH) is increasing. The treatment options for severe AH (sAH) are scarce and limited to corticosteroid therapy which showed limited mortality benefit in short-term use only. Therefore, there is a dire need for developing safe and effective therapies for patients with sAH and to improve their high mortality rates.This review article focuses on the current novel therapeutics targeting various mechanisms in the pathogenesis of alcohol-related hepatitis. Anti-inflammatory agents such as IL-1 inhibitor, Pan-caspase inhibitor, Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1, and CCL2 inhibitors are under investigation. Other group of agents include gut-liver axis modulators, hepatic regeneration, antioxidants, and Epigenic modulators. We describe the ongoing clinical trials of some of the new agents for alcohol-related hepatitis. Conclusion A combination of therapies was investigated, possibly providing a synergistic effect of drugs with different mechanisms. Multiple clinical trials of novel therapies in AH remain ongoing. Their result could potentially make a difference in the clinical course of the disease. DUR-928 and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor had promising results and further trials are ongoing to evaluate their efficacy in the large patient sample.
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Key Words
- AH, alcohol-Associated hepatitis
- ALD, Alcohol-associated liver disease
- ASK-1, Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1
- AUD, alcohol use disorder
- CCL2, C–C chemokine ligand type 2
- CVC, Cenicriviroc
- ELAD, Extracorporeal liver assist device
- FMT, Fecal Microbiota Transplant
- G-CSF, Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor
- HA35, Hyaluronic Acid 35KD
- IL-1, interleukin 1
- IL-6, interleukin 6
- LCFA, saturated long-chain fatty acids
- LDL, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol
- LPS, Lipopolysaccharides
- MCP-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein −1
- MDF, Maddrey's discriminant function
- MELD, Model for end-stage disease
- NAC, N-acetylcysteine
- NLRs, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors
- PAMPs, Pathogen-associated molecular patterns
- RCT, Randomized controlled trial
- SAM, S-Adenosyl methionine
- SCFA, short-chain fatty acids. 5
- TLRs, Toll-like receptors
- TNF, tumor necrotic factor
- alcohol-associated hepatitis
- anti-inflammatory
- antioxidants
- liver-gut axis
- microbiome
- sAH, severe alcohol-associated hepatitis
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Wakil
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New York, New Jersey, USA
| | - Mumtaz Niazi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New York, New Jersey, USA
| | - Mohamad A. Meybodi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New York, New Jersey, USA
| | - Nikolaos T. Pyrsopoulos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New York, New Jersey, USA
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10
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Sakiani S, Heller T, Koh C. Current and investigational drugs in early clinical development for portal hypertension. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:974182. [PMID: 36300180 PMCID: PMC9589453 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.974182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The development of portal hypertension leads to a majority of complications associated with chronic liver disease. Therefore, adequate treatment of portal hypertension is crucial in the management of such patients. Current treatment options are limited and consist mainly of medications that decrease the hyperdynamic circulation, such as non-selective beta blockers, and treatment of hypervolemia with diuretics. Despite these options, mortality rates have not improved over the last two decades. Newer, more effective treatment options are necessary to help improve survival and quality of life in these patients. Areas covered Multiple preclinical models and clinical studies have demonstrated potential efficacy of a variety of new treatment modalities. We introduce treatment options including the use of vasodilation promotors, vasoconstriction inhibitors, anticoagulants, antiangiogenics, and anti-inflammatory drugs. We examine the most recent studies for treatment options within these drug classes and offer insights as to which show the most promise in this field. Methodology Published studies that identified novel medical treatment options of portal hypertension were searched using PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/). Clinical trials listed in Clinicaltrials.gov were also searched with a focus on more recent and ongoing studies, including those with completed recruitment. Searching with key terms including "portal hypertension" as well as individually searching specific treatment medications that were listed in other publications was carried out. Finally, current societal guidelines and recent review articles relevant to the management of portal hypertension were evaluated, and listed references of interest were included. Conclusion Many ongoing early phase studies demonstrate promising results and may shape the field of portal hypertension management in future. As concrete results become available, larger RCTs will be required before making definitive conclusions regarding safety and efficacy and whether or not they can be incorporated into routine clinical practice. Statins, anticoagulants, and PDE inhibitors have been among the most studied and appear to be most promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasan Sakiani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Theo Heller
- Liver Diseases Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Christopher Koh
- Liver Diseases Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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11
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Influence of Gut–Liver Axis on Portal Hypertension in Advanced Chronic Liver Disease: The Gut Microbiome as a New Protagonist in Therapeutic Management. MICROBIOLOGY RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/microbiolres13030038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinically significant portal hypertension is associated with most complications of advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD), including variceal bleeding, ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatorenal syndrome, and hepatic encephalopathy. Gut dysbiosis is a hallmark of ACLD with portal hypertension and consists of the overgrowth of potentially pathogenic bacteria and a decrease in autochthonous bacteria; additionally, congestion makes the intestinal barrier more permeable to bacteria and their products, which contributes to the development of complications through inflammatory mechanisms. This review summarizes current knowledge on the role of the gut–liver axis in the pathogenesis of portal hypertension, with a focus on therapies targeting portal hypertension and the gut microbiota. The modulation of the gut microbiota on several levels represents a major challenge in the upcoming years; in-depth characterization of the molecular and microbiological mechanisms linking the gut–liver axis to portal hypertension in a bidirectional relationship could pave the way to the identification of new therapeutic targets for innovative therapies in the management of ACLD.
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12
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Rodrigues SG, Mendoza YP, Bosch J. Investigational drugs in early clinical development for portal hypertension. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2022; 31:825-842. [PMID: 35758843 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2095259] [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: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advanced chronic liver disease is considered a reversible condition after removal of the primary aetiological factor. This has led to a paradigm shift in which portal hypertension (PH) is a reversible complication of cirrhosis. The pharmacologic management of PH is centered on finding targets to modify the natural history of cirrhosis and PH. AREAS COVERED This paper offers an overview of the use of pharmacological strategies in early clinical development that modify PH. Papers included were selected from searching clinical trials sites and PubMed from the last 10 years. EXPERT OPINION A paradigm shift has generated a new concept of PH in cirrhosis as a reversible complication of a potentially curable disease. Decreasing portal pressure to prevent decompensation and further complications of cirrhosis that may lead liver transplantation or death is a goal. Therapeutic strategies also aspire achieve total or partial regression of fibrosis thus eliminating the need for treatment or screening of PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana G Rodrigues
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yuly P Mendoza
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland.,Graduate School for Health Sciences (GHS), University of Bern
| | - Jaime Bosch
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
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13
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Garbuzenko DV. Principles of diagnosis and treatment of alcohol-induced liver fibrosis. MEDITSINSKIY SOVET = MEDICAL COUNCIL 2022. [DOI: 10.21518/2079-701x-2022-16-7-104-114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol-related liver diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide, primarily due to complications of liver cirrhosis (LC). Early detection of alcohol-induced liver fibrosis (LF) is a difficult task, since often alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is clinically manifested only at late stages. Given that not all alcoholic suffer from ALD, the widespread use of liver biopsy to verify the diagnosis is not advisable. Despite the variety of proposed non-invasive methods for assessing the severity of LF in patients with ALD, none of them has sufficient validation and therefore cannot be recommended for widespread use in clinical practice. The most well-studied transient elastography, due to its suboptimal specificity, can be effectively used only to exclude clinically significant LF or LC. The only proven approach to treat ALD is persistent and total alcohol abstinence. While the therapeutic options for patients with severe forms of acute hepatitis remain unchanged since the 70s of the last century and are based mainly on the use of corticosteroids, currently, there are no approaches to antifibrotic therapy of ALD approved by the guidelines. At the same time, modern achievements in understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of this disease have served as an impetus for the development of ways to solve the problem. In particular, providing intestinal eubiosis may be an important goal for the prevention and treatment of alcohol-induced LF. Randomized controlled multicenter trials involving a large number of patients are needed to confirm this and other hypotheses related to antifibrotic therapy of ALD and to accept them as a standard of medical care.
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14
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Jiménez C, Ventura-Cots M, Sala M, Calafat M, Garcia-Retortillo M, Cirera I, Cañete N, Soriano G, Poca M, Simón-Talero M, Altamirano J, Lucey M, Garcia-Tsao G, Brown RS, Schwabe RF, Verna EC, Schnabl B, Bosques-Padilla F, Mathurin P, Caballería J, Louvet A, Shawcross DL, Abraldes JG, Genescà J, Bataller R, Vargas V. Effect of rifaximin on infections, acute-on-chronic liver failure and mortality in alcoholic hepatitis: A pilot study (RIFA-AH). Liver Int 2022; 42:1109-1120. [PMID: 35220659 PMCID: PMC9311407 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is associated with a high incidence of infection and mortality. Rifaximin reduces bacterial overgrowth and translocation. We aimed to study whether the administration of rifaximin as an adjuvant treatment to corticosteroids decreases the number of bacterial infections at 90 days in patients with severe AH compared to a control cohort. METHODS This was a multicentre, open, comparative pilot study of the addition of rifaximin (1200 mg/day/90 days) to the standard treatment for severe AH. The results were compared with a carefully matched historical cohort of patients treated with standard therapy and matching by age and model of end-stage liver disease (MELD). We evaluated bacterial infections, liver-related complications, mortality and liver function tests after 90 days. RESULTS Twenty-one and 42 patients were included in the rifaximin and control groups respectively. No significant baseline differences were found between groups. The mean number of infections per patient was 0.29 and 0.62 in the rifaximin and control groups, respectively (p = .049), with a lower incidence of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) linked to infections within the treatment group. Liver-related complications were lower within the rifaximin group (0.43 vs. 1.26 complications/patient respectively) (p = .01). Mortality was lower in the treated versus the control groups (14.2% vs. 30.9, p = .15) without significant differences. No serious adverse events were associated with rifaximin treatment. CONCLUSIONS Rifaximin is safe in severe AH with a significant reduction in clinical complications. A lower number of infections and a trend towards a lower ACLF and mortality favours its use in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- César Jiménez
- Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Liver Unit; Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca, Liver Unit, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Ventura-Cots
- Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Liver Unit; Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca, Liver Unit, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain.,Center for Liver Diseases, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Margarita Sala
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain.,Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Margalida Calafat
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain.,Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Garcia-Retortillo
- Liver Section, Gastroenterology Department, Hospital del Mar, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Cirera
- Liver Section, Gastroenterology Department, Hospital del Mar, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuria Cañete
- Liver Section, Gastroenterology Department, Hospital del Mar, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Germán Soriano
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Gastroenterology Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau Barcelona Spain, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau IIB Sant Pau, Gastroenterology, Barcelona, Catalunya, ES, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Medicine, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
| | - María Poca
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Gastroenterology Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau Barcelona Spain, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau IIB Sant Pau, Gastroenterology, Barcelona, Catalunya, ES, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Medicine, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
| | - Macarena Simón-Talero
- Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Liver Unit; Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca, Liver Unit, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - José Altamirano
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Quironsalud, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michael Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Robert S Brown
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Robert F Schwabe
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Verna
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | | | - Philippe Mathurin
- Service des Maladies de L'appareil Digestif et Unité INSERM U995, Lille, France
| | - Juan Caballería
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain.,Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alexandre Louvet
- Service des Maladies de L'appareil Digestif et Unité INSERM U995, Lille, France
| | - Debbie L Shawcross
- Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Institute of Liver Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Juan G Abraldes
- Division of Gastroenterology, Liver Unit, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Joan Genescà
- Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Liver Unit; Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca, Liver Unit, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ramon Bataller
- Center for Liver Diseases, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Víctor Vargas
- Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Liver Unit; Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca, Liver Unit, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
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15
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Kimer N, Meldgaard M, Hamberg O, Kronborg TM, Lund AM, Møller HJ, Bendtsen F, Ytting H. The impact of rifaximin on inflammation and metabolism in alcoholic hepatitis: A randomized clinical trial. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264278. [PMID: 35286322 PMCID: PMC8920190 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is characterized by acute liver failure, neurocognitive impairment and renal failure. Severe inflammatory reactions are also known to occur in AH. Inflammation and bacterial translocation in the gut are thought to have major impact on disease development and progression. The mortality rate for AH is close to 50%. We aimed to assess the efficacy of rifaximin in treating AH and its impact on inflammation and metabolism. METHODS The trial was approved by relevant authorities (EudraCT no: 2014-02264-33, Scientific Ethics Committee, jr. no: H-1-2014-056). Primary outcomes were changes in metabolic and inflammatory markers. Secondary outcomes were portal hypertension, kidney and neurocognitive function. RESULTS Thirty-two patients were randomized to standard medical therapy (SMT) or SMT plus rifaximin, allocation was concealed. Four patients in the SMT group and five patients in the SMT + rifaximin group died due to AH and liver failure. No adverse events related to the study medication were observed. We found no significant differences in amino acids or inflammation markers (IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, interferon-γ) between the groups after 28 and 90 days. CONCLUSION Rifaximin does not alter inflammation or metabolism in patients with AH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Kimer
- Gastro Unit, Medical Division, Amager-Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Mads Meldgaard
- Department of Internal Medicine, Zealand University Hospital, Koege, Denmark
| | - Ole Hamberg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Zealand University Hospital, Koege, Denmark
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thit Mynster Kronborg
- Gastro Unit, Medical Division, Amager-Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Allan M. Lund
- Center for Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Departments of Clinical Genetics and Pediatrics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Holger Jon Møller
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Flemming Bendtsen
- Gastro Unit, Medical Division, Amager-Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Henriette Ytting
- Gastro Unit, Medical Division, Amager-Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- * E-mail:
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16
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Zaccherini G, Tufoni M, Bernardi M, Caraceni P. Prevention of Cirrhosis Complications: Looking for Potential Disease Modifying Agents. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4590. [PMID: 34640608 PMCID: PMC8509683 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The current therapeutic strategies for the management of patients with cirrhosis rely on the prevention or treatment of specific complications. The removal of the causative agents (i.e., viruses or alcohol) prevents decompensation in the vast majority of patients with compensated cirrhosis. In contrast, even when etiological treatment has been effective, a significant proportion of patients with decompensated cirrhosis remains at risk of further disease progression. Therefore, therapies targeting specific key points in the complex pathophysiological cascade of decompensated cirrhosis could represent a new approach for the management of these severely ill patients. Some of the interventions currently employed for treating or preventing specific complications of cirrhosis or used in other diseases (i.e., poorly absorbable oral antibiotics, statins, albumin) have been proposed as potential disease-modifying agents in cirrhosis (DMAC) since clinical studies have shown their capacity of improving survival. Additional multicenter, large randomized clinical trials are awaited to confirm these promising results. Finally, new drugs able to antagonize key pathophysiological mechanisms are under pre-clinical development or at the initial stages of clinical assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (M.B.)
| | - Manuel Tufoni
- IRCCS AOU di Bologna—Policlinico di S. Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (M.B.)
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (M.B.)
- IRCCS AOU di Bologna—Policlinico di S. Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Center for Biomedical Applied Research, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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17
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Nathwani R, Mullish B, Kockerling D, Cole A, Selvapatt N, Dhar A. Review of Rifaximin: A Summary of the Current Evidence and Benefits Beyond Licensed Use. EUROPEAN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.33590/emj/21-00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance in patients with cirrhosis continues to draw significant attention. With a propensity to frequent hospitalisations, patients with cirrhosis are subject to frequent antibiotic prescription. This increases their risk of developing resistance to one or more antimicrobial agents, making management of their condition particularly challenging. Despite advancements being made in the management of liver disease, mortality rates continue to rise: almost 5-fold in those <65 years of age while remaining the leading cause of death in those 35–49 years of age. Alternative therapeutic options to prevent disease progression and cirrhosis-associated complications are urgently required; rifaximin is one such example. The medication use in patients with cirrhosis demonstrates additional benefits beyond current licensed use in the UK, that being for the prevention of hepatic encephalopathy and traveller’s diarrhoea; rifaximin has especially been explored beyond current licensed use in the context of enteric-driven pathologies. Through the therapy’s key central action as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial, rifaximin has the ability to modulate the gut–liver axis via removal of gut microbial products associated with the progression of cirrhosis and its sequalae.
The benefits of rifaximin use continues to gather momentum, given its non-absorbable nature and well-tolerated side-effect profile, and these require consideration. With broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, its use may assist in overcoming the conundrum posed of antibiotic resistance amongst patients with cirrhosis. This literature review discusses the chemical and antimicrobial properties of rifaximin, its licenced indication for use, and its reported benefits beyond this, as well as concerns regarding rifaximin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rooshi Nathwani
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Benjamin Mullish
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - David Kockerling
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Alexander Cole
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Nowlan Selvapatt
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Ameet Dhar
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
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18
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Abstract
Antifibrotic therapies for the treatment of liver fibrosis represent an unconquered area of drug development. The significant involvement of the gut microbiota as a driving force in a multitude of liver disease, be it pathogenesis or fibrotic progression, suggest that targeting the gut–liver axis, relevant signaling pathways, and/or manipulation of the gut’s commensal microbial composition and its metabolites may offer opportunities for biomarker discovery, novel therapies and personalized medicine development. Here, we review potential links between bacterial translocation and deficits of host-microbiome compartmentalization and liver fibrosis that occur in settings of advanced chronic liver disease. We discuss established and emerging therapeutic strategies, translated from our current knowledge of the gut–liver axis, targeted at restoring intestinal eubiosis, ameliorating hepatic fibrosis and rising portal hypertension that characterize and define the course of decompensated cirrhosis.
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19
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Caraceni P, Vargas V, Solà E, Alessandria C, de Wit K, Trebicka J, Angeli P, Mookerjee RP, Durand F, Pose E, Krag A, Bajaj JS, Beuers U, Ginès P, Napoleone L, Carol M, Avitabile E, Thu AM, Cervera M, Pérez M, Belén Rubio‐Garcia A, Ardiaca A, Vives A, Pich J, Fabrellas N, Zaccherini G, Chiappa MT, Jiménez C, Palacio E, Campion D, Lanzillotti T, Piano S, Nicolao G, Uschner F, Graf_Dirmeier S, Francoz C, Roux O, Esnault V, Helder J, Aban M, Kazankov K, Korenjak M, Kamath P, Abraldes JG, Watson H. The Use of Rifaximin in Patients With Cirrhosis. Hepatology 2021; 74:1660-1673. [PMID: 33421158 PMCID: PMC8518409 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rifaximin is an oral nonsystemic antibiotic with minimal gastrointestinal absorption and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity covering both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. Rifaximin is currently used worldwide in patients with cirrhosis for preventing recurrent HE because its efficacy and safety have been proven by large randomized clinical trials. In the last decade, experimental and clinical evidence suggest that rifaximin could have other beneficial effects on the course of cirrhosis by modulating the gut microbiome and affecting the gut-liver axis, which in turn can interfere with major events of the pathophysiological cascade underlying decompensated cirrhosis, such as systemic inflammatory syndrome, portal hypertension, and bacterial infections. However, the use of rifaximin for prevention or treatment of other complications, including spontaneous bacterial peritonitis or other bacterial infections, is not accepted because evidence by clinical trials is still very weak. The present review deals in the first part with the potential impact of rifaximin on pathogenic mechanisms in liver diseases, whereas in the second part, its clinical effects are critically discussed. It clearly emerges that, because of its potential activity on multiple pathogenic events, the efficacy of rifaximin in the prevention or management of complications other than HE deserves to be investigated extensively. The results of double-blinded, adequately powered randomized clinical trials assessing the effect of rifaximin, alone or in combination with other drugs, on hard clinical endpoints, such as decompensation of cirrhosis, acute-on-chronic liver failure, and mortality, are therefore eagerly awaited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Caraceni
- University of BolognaUniversity Hospital S. Orsola‐Malpighi di BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Victor Vargas
- Hospital Vall d’HebronUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaCIEREHDBarcelonaCataloniaSpain
| | - Elsa Solà
- Hospital Clinic of BarcelonaUniversity of BarcelonaIDIBAPSCIBEReHDBarcelonaCataloniaSpain
| | - Carlo Alessandria
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyCittà della Salute e della Scienza HospitalUniversity of TorinoTurinItaly
| | - Koos de Wit
- Amsterdam University Medical CentersAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Jonel Trebicka
- Goethe‐University ‐ Frankfurt am MainFrankfurt am MainGermany,EF‐CLIFBarcelonaCataloniaSpain
| | | | | | | | - Elisa Pose
- Hospital Clinic of BarcelonaUniversity of BarcelonaIDIBAPSCIBEReHDBarcelonaCataloniaSpain
| | - Aleksander Krag
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark,Institute of Clinical ResearchUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
| | | | - Ulrich Beuers
- Amsterdam University Medical CentersAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Pere Ginès
- Hospital Clinic of BarcelonaUniversity of BarcelonaIDIBAPSCIBEReHDBarcelonaCataloniaSpain
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20
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Abstract
The incidence of alcoholic hepatitis is increasing while the mortality rate remains high. The single current available therapy for severe alcoholic hepatitis is administration of corticosteroids for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis, which has demonstrated limited benefits, providing a short-term mortality benefit with a marginal response rate. There is a need for developing safe and effective therapies. This article reviews novel therapies targeting various mechanisms in the pathogenesis of alcoholic hepatitis, such as the gut-liver axis, inflammatory cascade, oxidative stress, and hepatic regeneration. Current ongoing clinical trials for alcoholic hepatitis also are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma Ai Thanda Han
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, H-526, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Nikolaos Pyrsopoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, H-536, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
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Sauerbruch T, Hennenberg M, Trebicka J, Beuers U. Bile Acids, Liver Cirrhosis, and Extrahepatic Vascular Dysfunction. Front Physiol 2021; 12:718783. [PMID: 34393832 PMCID: PMC8358446 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.718783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The bile acid pool with its individual bile acids (BA) is modulated in the enterohepatic circulation by the liver as the primary site of synthesis, the motility of the gallbladder and of the intestinal tract, as well as by bacterial enzymes in the intestine. The nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Gpbar1 (TGR5) are important set screws in this process. Bile acids have a vasodilatory effect, at least according to in vitro studies. The present review examines the question of the extent to which the increase in bile acids in plasma could be responsible for the hyperdynamic circulatory disturbance of liver cirrhosis and whether modulation of the bile acid pool, for example, via administration of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) or via modulation of the dysbiosis present in liver cirrhosis could influence the hemodynamic disorder of liver cirrhosis. According to our analysis, the evidence for this is limited. Long-term studies on this question are lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilman Sauerbruch
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Martin Hennenberg
- Department of Urology I, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jonel Trebicka
- Translational Hepatology, Medical Department, University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Selicean S, Wang C, Guixé-Muntet S, Stefanescu H, Kawada N, Gracia-Sancho J. Regression of portal hypertension: underlying mechanisms and therapeutic strategies. Hepatol Int 2021; 15:36-50. [PMID: 33544313 PMCID: PMC7886770 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-021-10135-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Portal hypertension is the main non-neoplastic complication of chronic liver disease, being the cause of important life-threatening events including the development of ascites or variceal bleeding. The primary factor in the development of portal hypertension is a pathological increase in the intrahepatic vascular resistance, due to liver microcirculatory dysfunction, which is subsequently aggravated by extra-hepatic vascular disturbances including elevation of portal blood inflow. Evidence from pre-clinical models of cirrhosis has demonstrated that portal hypertension and chronic liver disease can be reversible if the injurious etiological agent is removed and can be further promoted using pharmacological therapy. These important observations have been partially demonstrated in clinical studies. This paper aims at providing an updated review of the currently available data regarding spontaneous and drug-promoted regression of portal hypertension, paying special attention to the clinical evidence. It also considers pathophysiological caveats that highlight the need for caution in establishing a new dogma that human chronic liver disease and portal hypertension is reversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Selicean
- Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Inselspital, Murtenstrasse 35, Maurice E. Müller-Haus, F821a, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cong Wang
- Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Inselspital, Murtenstrasse 35, Maurice E. Müller-Haus, F821a, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sergi Guixé-Muntet
- Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Inselspital, Murtenstrasse 35, Maurice E. Müller-Haus, F821a, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Horia Stefanescu
- Department of Hepatology, Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Liver Research Club, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Norifumi Kawada
- Department of Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Inselspital, Murtenstrasse 35, Maurice E. Müller-Haus, F821a, 3008, Bern, Switzerland.
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain.
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Novel therapeutics for portal hypertension and fibrosis in chronic liver disease. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 215:107626. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Garbuzenko DV, Arefyev NO. Primary prevention of bleeding from esophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis: An update and review of the literature. J Evid Based Med 2020; 13:313-324. [PMID: 33037792 DOI: 10.1111/jebm.12407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
All patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension should be stratified by risk groups to individualize different therapeutic strategies to increase the effectiveness of treatment. In this regard, the development of primary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding and its management according to the severity of portal hypertension may be promising. This paper is to describe the modern principles of primary prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis. The PubMed and EMbase databases, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were used to search for relevant publications from 1999 to 2019. The results suggested that depending on the severity of portal hypertension, patients with cirrhosis should be divided into those who need preprimary prophylaxis, which aims to prevent the formation of esophageal varices, and those who require measures that aim to prevent esophageal variceal bleeding. In subclinical portal hypertension, therapy should be etiological and pathogenetic. Cirrhosis with clinically significant portal hypertension should receive nonselective β-blockers if they have small esophageal varices and risk factors for variceal bleeding. Nonselective β-blockers are the first-line drugs for the primary prevention of bleeding from medium to large-sized esophageal varices. Endoscopic band ligation is indicated for the patients who are intolerant to nonselective β-blockers or in the case of contraindications to pharmacological therapy. In summary, the stratification of cirrhotic patients by the severity of portal hypertension and an individual approach to the choice of treatment may increase the effectiveness of therapy as well as improve survival rate of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nikolay Olegovich Arefyev
- Department of Pathological Anatomy and Forensic Medicine, South Ural State Medical University, Chelyabinsk, Russia
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Henkel S, Vetterly C, Squires R, McKiernan P, Squires J. Pharmacological management of portal hypertension and its complications in children: lessons from adults and opportunities for the future. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2020; 22:291-304. [PMID: 33074032 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2020.1825685] [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: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Portal hypertension (PHT) and its complications in children are thought to be distinct from adult PHT in several areas, including the underlying bio-physiology of a child in which PHT develops, but also because of the pediatric-specific etiologies that drive disease progression. And yet pharmacologic approaches to PHT in children are mainly based on adult data, modified for pediatric practice. This reality has been driven by a lack of data specific to children. AREAS COVERED The authors discuss current therapeutic approaches to PHT in children, including management of acute gastrointestinal variceal bleed, pharmacotherapy in prophylaxis, and established and emerging therapies to combat systemic co-morbidities that result from PHT. The few areas where pediatric-specific data exist are highlighted and the many gaps in knowledge that remain unresolved are underscored. EXPERT OPINION Despite decades of experience, optimal management of pediatric PHT remains undefined. In large part, this can be directly linked to a lack of basic understanding related to the unique pathophysiology and natural history that defines PHT in children. As a result, meaningful research into the utility and effectiveness of pharmacotherapy in children with PHT remains in its infancy. Large, multi-center, prospective studies will be needed to begin to establish an infrastructure on which a pediatric-specific research agenda can be built.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Henkel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Carol Vetterly
- Department of Pharmacy, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy , Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Robert Squires
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Patrick McKiernan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA
| | - James Squires
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA
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Mendoza YP, Rodrigues SG, Bosch J, Berzigotti A. Effect of poorly absorbable antibiotics on hepatic venous pressure gradient in cirrhosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Dig Liver Dis 2020; 52:958-965. [PMID: 32736898 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2020.06.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of poorly/non-absorbable antibiotics on hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) are debated. AIM To analyze the effects of rifaximin or norfloxacin on HVPG and on markers of bacterial translocation and proinflammatory cytokines. METHODS We performed a systematic search of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) involving patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension, assessing the effect of rifaximin or norfloxacin vs control on HVPG. Pooled analyses were based on random-effects models, heterogeneity was assessed by Cochran's Q, I2 statistic and subgroup analyses. RESULTS Five studies (215 patients) were included. Risk of bias was high in three. We found no significant differences using antibiotics versus control. The summary mean difference in HVPG was of -0.55 mmHg (95%CI:-1.52, 0.42; P = 0.27), with moderate heterogeneity (P = 0.15; I2 = 40%). RCTs with longer therapy (60-90 days) used non-selective-beta-blockers (NSBB) in both antibiotics and control arms. Subgroup analysis showed a significantly greater reduction in HVPG in the combination arm over controls (mean difference -1.46 mmHg [95%CI: -2.63, -0.28; P = 0.01]) with no heterogeneity (P = 0.46; I2 = 0%). Serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) significantly decreased with antibiotics, but with high heterogeneity (P < 0.001; I2 = 92%). CONCLUSIONS Rifaximin or norfloxacin did not significantly reduce HVPG in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Studies using antibiotic for longer periods on top of NSBB showed a significant decrease in HVPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuly P Mendoza
- UVCM, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Susana G Rodrigues
- UVCM, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jaime Bosch
- UVCM, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- UVCM, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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Sinkala E, Vinikoor M, Zyambo K, Besa E, Nsokolo B, Kelly P. Propranolol Reduces Portal Vein Diameter in Schistosomal Liver Disease with Portal Hypertension: A Prospective Cohort Study. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 102:832-837. [PMID: 32067625 PMCID: PMC7124927 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatosplenic schistosomiasis (HSS) complicates portal hypertension, leading to life-threatening variceal bleeding. Variceal bleeding is associated with increased portal vein diameter (PVD). Beta-blockers prevent variceal bleeding. It is unclear whether beta-blockers such as propranolol can reduce PVD in HSS. We aimed to explore the effect of propranolol on PVD in HSS. A longitudinal study was conducted at the University Teaching Hospital, Zambia, as an extension of a clinical trial of rifaximin undertaken to test the hypothesis that rifaximin could reduce bacterial translocation in HSS. We randomized 85 adults to either rifaximin and standard care, or propranolol-based standard care only for 42 days. We then followed up all the patients on propranolol up to day 180. We used ultrasound to measure PVD at baseline and day 180. The primary outcome was reduction in PVD. Beta-blockade and splenic size reduction were secondary outcomes. Portal vein diameter reduced after 180 days of propranolol therapy from median 12 mm (interquartile range (IQR): 11–14) to median 10 mm (IQR: 9–13) (P < 0.001). The pulse rate reduced from baseline median 70 beats/minute (IQR: 66–80) to 65 beats/minute (IQR: 60–70) by day 180 (P = 0.006). Hemoglobin levels improved from baseline median 8 g/dL (IQR: 6–11) to 12 g/dL (10–14) (P < 0.001). Splenic size remained unchanged. Propranolol led to the reduction in PVD over 180 days. This suggests that ultrasound could be useful in monitoring response and compliance to beta-blockers, especially in resource-constraint areas where portal hypertension measurement facilities are unavailable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edford Sinkala
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michael Vinikoor
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Kanekwa Zyambo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ellen Besa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Bright Nsokolo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Paul Kelly
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
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Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) encompasses a broad spectrum of disorders including steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Despite intensive research in the last two decades, there is currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved therapy for treating ALD. Several studies have demonstrated the importance of the gut-liver axis and gut microbiome on the pathogenesis of ALD. Alcohol may induce intestinal dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability, which in turn result in increased levels of pathogen-associated molecular patterns such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and translocation of microbial products from the gut to the liver (bacterial translocation). LPS is an inflammatory signal that activates toll-like receptor 4 on Kupffer cells, contributing to the inflammation observed in ALD. Recently, probiotics have been shown to be effective in reducing or preventing the progression of ALD. A potential mechanism is that the probiotics transforms the composition of intestinal microbiota, which leads to reductions in alcohol-induced dysbiosis, intestinal permeability, bacterial translocation, endotoxemia, and consequently, the development of ALD. While transformation of intestinal microbiota by probiotics appears to be a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of intestinal barrier dysfunction, there is a scarcity of research that studies probiotics in the context of ALD. In this review, we discuss the potential therapeutic applications of probiotics in the treatment of ALD.
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Chautant F, Guillaume M, Robic MA, Cadranel JF, Peron JM, Lison H, Cool C, Bureau C, Duhalde V. Lessons from “real life experience” of rifaximin use in the management of recurrent hepatic encephalopathy. World J Hepatol 2020; 12:10-20. [PMID: 31984117 PMCID: PMC6946626 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v12.i1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a major complication of cirrhosis with independent prognostic significance. The current management of HE is mainly based on lactulose. Rifaximin has been shown to decrease the risk of HE recurrence in patients with episodic forms. HE can also be persistent. However, there is no drug support recommendation for rifaximin use in this setting.
AIM To assess the effectiveness of rifaximin in the management of recurrent episodes of HE and recurrent acute exacerbations on persistent HE, in “real life conditions”.
METHODS In this retrospective study, using a within-subjects design, we collected data of patients treated with rifaximin for HE in two liver diseases centers, during the six-month period before and during the six-month period after the initiation of rifaximin. The primary effectiveness endpoint was the total number of HE events involving hospitalization.
RESULTS Rifaximin was introduced for prevention of recurrent HE episodes in 29 out of 62 patients with normal mental status between episodes and for prevention of recurrent acute exacerbations on persistent HE in 33 out of 62 patients. In the “prevention of recurrent HE episodes” group, fewer HE events (0.79 vs 1.78; P = 0.013) were reported during the period of time when rifaximin was used. In the “prevention of recurrent acute exacerbations on persistent HE” group, there was no significant difference in the number of HE-events (1.48 vs 1.77; P = 0.582).
CONCLUSION In this real-life experience, the effectiveness of rifaximin was confirmed in the prevention of HE episodes recurrence but was not proved in the prevention of acute exacerbations recurrence on persistent HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Chautant
- Service Pharmacie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, Toulouse 31059, France
| | - Maeva Guillaume
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Toulouse 31059, France
| | - Marie-Angèle Robic
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Toulouse 31059, France
| | | | - Jean-Marie Peron
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Toulouse 31059, France
| | - Hortensia Lison
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Laennec Hospital, Creil 60109, France
| | - Charlène Cool
- Department of Pharmacy and UMR INSERM 1027, University Hospital, Toulouse 31059, France
| | - Christophe Bureau
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Toulouse 31059, France
| | - Véronique Duhalde
- Department of Pharmacy, University Hospital Toulouse, Toulouse 31059, France
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Lv XY, Ding HG, Zheng JF, Fan CL, Li L. Rifaximin improves survival in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites: A real-world study. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:199-218. [PMID: 31988585 PMCID: PMC6962437 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i2.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rifaximin has been shown to reduce the incidence of hepatic encephalopathy and other complications in patients with cirrhosis. However, few studies have investigated the effect of rifaximin in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites.
AIM To evaluate the effects of rifaximin in the treatment of refractory ascites and to preliminarily explore its possible mechanism.
METHODS A total of 75 cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites were enrolled in the study (50 in a rifaximin and 25 in a control group). Patients in the rifaximin group were divided into two subgroups according to the presence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and treatment with or without other antibiotics (19 patients treated with rifaximin and 31 patients treated with rifaximin plus intravenous antibiotics). All patients received conventional treatment for refractory ascites, while patients in the rifaximin group received oral rifaximin-α 200 mg four times daily for at least 2 wk. The ascites grade, fasting weight, liver and kidney function, and inflammatory factors in the plasma were evaluated before and after treatment. In addition, the gut microbiota was determined by metagenomics sequencing to analyse the changes in the characteristics of the gut microbiota before and after rifaximin treatment. The patients were followed for 6 mo.
RESULTS Compared with the control group, the fasting weight of patients significantly decreased and the ascites significantly subsided after treatment with rifaximin (P = 0.011 and 0.009, respectively). The 6-mo survival rate of patients in the rifaximin group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P = 0.048). The concentration of interferon-inducible protein 10 decreased significantly in the rifaximin group compared with that in the control group (P = 0.024). The abundance of Roseburia, Haemophilus, and Prevotella was significantly reduced after rifaximin treatment, while the abundance of Lachnospiraceae_noname, Subdoligranulum, and Dorea decreased and the abundance of Coprobacillus increased after treatment with rifaximin plus intravenous antibiotics. The gene expression of virulence factors was significantly reduced after treatment in both subgroups treated with rifaximin or rifaximin plus intravenous antibiotics.
CONCLUSION Rifaximin mitigates ascites and improves survival of cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites. A possible mechanism is that rifaximin regulates the structure and function of intestinal bacteria, thus improving the systemic inflammatory state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Lv
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing You An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Hui-Guo Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing You An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jun-Fu Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing You An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Chun-Lei Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing You An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing You An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
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The role of splanchnic congestion and the intestinal microenvironment in the pathogenesis of advanced heart failure. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care 2019; 13:24-30. [PMID: 30640740 DOI: 10.1097/spc.0000000000000414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Right-sided heart failure, which is often present in the setting of advanced heart failure, is associated with cardiac cachexia, the cardiorenal syndrome, and adverse outcomes. Improved understanding of venous congestion of the splanchnic circulation, which may play a key role in the pathogenesis of right-sided heart failure, could lead to novel therapeutics to ameliorate heart failure. Here we provide an overview of right-sided heart failure, splanchnic hemodynamics, fluid homeostasis, and the intestinal microenvironment. We review recent literature to describe pathophysiologic mechanisms and possible therapeutics. RECENT FINDINGS Several possible mechanisms centered around upregulation of sodium-hydrogen exchanger-3 (NHE3) may form a causal link between right ventricular dysfunction, splanchnic congestion, and worsening heart failure. These include an anaerobic environment in enterocytes, resulting in reduced intracellular pH; increased sodium absorption by the gut via NHE3; decreased pH at the intestinal brush border thus altering the gut microbiome profile; increased bacterial synthesis of trimethylamine N-oxide; and decreased bacterial synthesis of short-chain fatty acids causing abnormal intestinal barrier function. SUMMARY Splanchnic congestion in the setting of right-sided heart failure may serve an important role in the pathogenesis of advanced heart failure, and further exploration of these mechanisms may lead to new therapeutic advances.
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Abstract
Terlipressin, somatostatin, or octreotide are recommended as pharmacologic treatment of acute variceal hemorrhage. Nonselective β-blockers decrease the risk of variceal hemorrhage and hepatic decompensation, particularly in those 30% to 40% of patients with good hemodynamic response. Carvedilol, statins, and anticoagulants are promising agents in the management of portal hypertension. Recent advances in the pharmacologic treatment of portal hypertension have mainly focused on modifying an increased intrahepatic resistance through nitric oxide and/or modulation of vasoactive substances. Several novel pharmacologic agents for portal hypertension are being evaluated in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chalermrat Bunchorntavakul
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Rajavithi Hospital, College of Medicine, Rangsit University, Rajavithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 2 Dulles, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - K Rajender Reddy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 2 Dulles, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Williams BB, Green SJ, Bosch RJ, Chan ES, Jacobson JM, Margolis DM, Engen P, Landay AL, Wilson CC. Four Weeks of Treatment With Rifaximin Fails to Significantly Alter Microbial Diversity in Rectal Samples of HIV-Infected Immune Non-Responders (ACTG A5286) Which May be Attributed to Rectal Swab Use. Pathog Immun 2019; 4:235-250. [PMID: 31583331 PMCID: PMC6768152 DOI: 10.20411/pai.v4i2.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV-infected individuals have evidence of intestinal microbial translocation which is associated with immune activation and unfavorable clinical outcomes. Rifaximin, a non-absorbable antibiotic which reduces microbial translocation in other disease states, was shown to have a marginal beneficial effect on microbial translocation, T-cell activation, and inflammation in a multisite randomized trial (ACTG A5286; NCT01466595) of HIV-infected persons with poor immunologic recovery receiving ART. Here, we report analysis of the rectal microbiome changes associated with that trial. METHODS HIV-1-infected individuals receiving ART with CD4-T cell count < 350cells/mm3 and viral suppression were randomized 2:1 to rifaximin or no therapy for 4 weeks. Rectal swabs were collected at baseline (pre-treatment) and at week 4 of rifaximin therapy. Genomic DNA extracted from rectal swab samples was analyzed using high throughput sequencing and quantitative PCR of bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. RESULTS Forty-eight HIV-infected participants (31 received rifaximin, 17 no treatment) were included. There was broad variability in the recovery of bacterial rRNA from the specimens at baseline. No major significant (FDR P < 0.05) effects of rifaximin treatment on alpha- or beta-diversity or individual taxa were observed between or within the treatment arms, with analyses conducted at taxonomic levels from phylum to genus. CONCLUSIONS Rifaximin did not meaningfully alter the diversity or composition of the rectal microbiome of HIV-infected individuals after 4 weeks of therapy, although rectal swab specimens varied widely in their microbial load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett B. Williams
- Division of Infectious Disease; Rush University Medical Center; Chicago, Illinois
| | - Stefan J. Green
- Sequencing Core; University of Illinois at Chicago; Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ronald J. Bosch
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research; Harvard School of Public Health; Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ellen S. Chan
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research; Harvard School of Public Health; Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeffrey M. Jacobson
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV; Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - David M. Margolis
- Department of Medicine; University of North Carolina; Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Phillip Engen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition; Department of Medicine; Rush University Medical Center; Chicago, Illinois
| | - Alan L. Landay
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology; Rush University Medical Center; Chicago, Illinois
| | - Cara C. Wilson
- Department of Medicine; University of Colorado at Denver; Aurora, Colorado
| | - A5286 protocol team
- Division of Infectious Disease; Rush University Medical Center; Chicago, Illinois
- Sequencing Core; University of Illinois at Chicago; Chicago, Illinois
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research; Harvard School of Public Health; Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV; Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Medicine; University of North Carolina; Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition; Department of Medicine; Rush University Medical Center; Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology; Rush University Medical Center; Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medicine; University of Colorado at Denver; Aurora, Colorado
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Finlin BS, Zhu B, Boyechko T, Westgate PM, Chia CW, Egan JM, Kern PA. Effect of Rifaximin Treatment on Endotoxemia and Insulin Sensitivity in Humans. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1641-1651. [PMID: 31428718 PMCID: PMC6691337 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The gut microbiome is a source of inflammatory factors such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS; endotoxin) that influence metabolic homeostasis. Rifaximin is a well-tolerated antibiotic that may reduce LPS. OBJECTIVE We sought to develop a method to accurately assess postprandial endotoxemia and to determine whether rifaximin treatment improves metabolic homeostasis in obese humans with metabolic syndrome. DESIGN AND SETTING Plasma LPS, adipose inflammation, glucose and lipid metabolism, and insulin sensitivity were evaluated in a clinical research setting. PARTICIPANTS Twelve obese human research participants with prediabetes or three features of metabolic syndrome participated. INTERVENTION The research participants were randomized to placebo control or rifaximin soluble solid dispersion (80 mg/d) treatment groups and treated for 12 weeks. OUTCOME MEASURES We evaluated changes in insulin sensitivity with a euglycemic clamp; changes in lipid and glucose metabolism with oral lipid and glucose tolerance tests; changes in plasma LPS during the lipid tolerance test; and changes in adipose tissue and systemic inflammation by measuring inflammatory cytokines. RESULTS Rifaximin treatment slightly worsened insulin sensitivity (P = 0.03), did not improve glucose or lipid homeostasis, and did not significantly improve adipose tissue inflammation. Our efforts to accurately assess plasma LPS using limulus amebocyte lysate assays revealed that the majority of LPS is masked from detection by limulus amebocyte lysate assays, but can be unmasked using a pretreatment step with protease. Unmasked LPS increases during the lipid tolerance test, but rifaximin treatment did not reduce this. CONCLUSIONS Rifaximin treatment did not lower plasma LPS or improve metabolic homeostasis in obese humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian S Finlin
- The Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, and the Barnstable Brown Diabetes and Obesity Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Beibei Zhu
- The Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, and the Barnstable Brown Diabetes and Obesity Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Tania Boyechko
- The Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, and the Barnstable Brown Diabetes and Obesity Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Philip M Westgate
- College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Chee W Chia
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Josephine M Egan
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Philip A Kern
- The Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, and the Barnstable Brown Diabetes and Obesity Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Ghafar AA, Rozaik S, Akef A. Rifaximin plus norfloxacin versus norfloxacin alone in primary prophylaxis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in patients with variceal bleeding. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.4103/ejim.ejim_6_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Shamseya MM, Madkour MA. Rifaximin: A reasonable alternative for norfloxacin in the prevention of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in patients with HCV-related liver cirrhosis. ALEXANDRIA JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajme.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed M. Shamseya
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, EgyptDepartment of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Marwa A. Madkour
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, EgyptDepartment of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine, Medical Research Institute, University of Alexandria, Egypt
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Microbial translocation revisited: targeting the endotoxic potential of gut microbes in HIV-infected individuals. AIDS 2019; 33:645-653. [PMID: 30531315 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Translocation of microbial products such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from the gut may contribute to chronic inflammation in HIV-infected individuals. Recent studies indicate that differences in degree of acylation of gut-bacterial-derived LPS may explain variable immune effects, with hexa-acylated rather than penta-acylated LPS having proinflammatory capacity. We investigated whether the degree of acylation of gut-derived LPS associates with systemic inflammation, and the potential effect of probiotic intervention. METHODS Gut microbiota profiles from a probiotics intervention were investigated and validated in a cohort of HIV-infected individuals commencing antiretroviral therapy. The PiCRUSt software was used to predict overall functional capacity of the microbiota and in-house bioinformatics to distinguish between bacteria producing hexa-acylated and penta-acylated LPS. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION HIV-infected individuals with the highest ratio of proinflammatory hexa-acylated LPS to noninflammatory penta-acylated LPS-producing bacteria exhibited increased levels of systemic inflammation (neopterin, P < 0.001) and tryptophan catabolism (kynurenine/tryptophan ratio, P = 0.01), indicating a link between proinflammatory LPS, tryptophan catabolism and inflammation. After probiotics for 8 weeks, there was a decrease in Gram-negative bacteria (P = 0.01), related primarily to a reduction in bacteria producing penta-acylated LPS (P = 0.01), but not hexa-acylated LPS. The reduction in Gram-negative bacteria correlated positively with decreased plasma LPS (r = 0.72), mainly related to a reduction in bacteria producing noninflammatory penta-acylated LPS (r = 0.58). Notably, gut bacteria producing hexa-acylated LPS were outnumbered by penta-acylated LPS with a factor of 25 in HIV-infected individuals. Further studies are warranted to determine whether microbes producing hexa-acylated LPS might be a more relevant trigger of systemic inflammation compared with plasma LPS captured by the existing limulus assay.
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Ponziani FR, Zocco MA, Cerrito L, Gasbarrini A, Pompili M. Bacterial translocation in patients with liver cirrhosis: physiology, clinical consequences, and practical implications. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 12:641-656. [PMID: 29806487 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2018.1481747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The gut liver axis is an operative unit that works to protect the human body against potentially harmful substances and microorganisms, maintaining the homeostasis of the immune system. Liver cirrhosis profoundly alters this complex system. The intestine becomes more permeable allowing the translocation of bacteria, bacterial products and fragments into the portal circulation, triggering an abnormal local and systemic inflammatory response and a condition of perpetual immunologic alarm. This immune-inflammatory disorder related to dysbiosis is involved in the development of liver damage and liver cirrhosis complications and increases intestinal permeability in a vicious circle. Areas covered: The most relevant studies on bacterial translocation, the mechanism of intestinal barrier dysfunction and its consequences in patients with liver cirrhosis have been revised through a PubMed search. Data have been discussed with particular regard to their significance in clinical practice. Expert commentary: The assessment of bacterial translocation and intestinal permeability is not currently used in clinical practice but may be useful to stratify patients' prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Romana Ponziani
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
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Lim YL, Kim MY, Jang YO, Baik SK, Kwon SO. Rifaximin and Propranolol Combination Therapy Is More Effective than Propranolol Monotherapy for the Reduction of Portal Pressure: An Open Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. Gut Liver 2018. [PMID: 28651304 PMCID: PMC5593333 DOI: 10.5009/gnl16478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Non-selective beta blockers (NSBBs) are currently the only accepted regimen for preventing portal hypertension (PHT)-related complications. However, the effect of NSBBs is insufficient in many cases. Bacterial translocation (BT) is one of the aggravating factors of PHT in cirrhosis; therefore, selective intestinal decontamination by rifaximin is a possible therapeutic option for improving PHT. We investigated whether the addition of rifaximin to propranolol therapy can improve hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) response. Methods Sixty-four cirrhosis patients were randomly assigned to propranolol monotherapy (n=48) versus rifaximin and propranolol combination therapy (n=16). Baseline and post-treatment HVPG values, BT-related markers (lipopolysaccharide [LPS], LPS-binding protein [LBP], interleukin-6 [IL-6], and tumor necrosis factor α [TNF-α]), serological data, and adverse event data were collected. HVPG response rate was the primary endpoint. Results Combination therapy was associated with better HVPG response rates than monotherapy (56.2% vs 87.5%, p=0.034). In combination therapy, posttreatment BT-related markers were significantly decreased (LPS, p=0.005; LBP, p=0.005; IL-6, p=0.005; TNF-α, p=0.047). Conclusions Rifaximin combination therapy showed an additive effect in improving PHT compared to propranolol monotherapy. These pilot data suggest that the addition of rifaximin to NSBBs could be a good therapeutic option for overcoming the limited effectiveness of NSBBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoo Li Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Moon Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Yoon Ok Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea.,Department of Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Soon Koo Baik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea.,Department of Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Sang Ok Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
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Abstract
Portal hypertension is one cause and a part of a dynamic process triggered by chronic liver disease, mostly induced by alcohol or incorrect nutrition and less often by viral infections and autoimmune or genetic disease. Adequate staging - continuously modified by current knowledge - should guide the prevention and treatment of portal hypertension with defined endpoints. The main goals are interruption of etiology and prevention of complications followed, if necessary, by treatment of these. For the past few decades, shunts, mostly as intrahepatic stent bypass between portal and hepatic vein branches, have played an important role in the prevention of recurrent bleeding and ascites formation, although their impact on survival remains ambiguous. Systemic drugs, such as non-selective beta-blockers, statins, or antibiotics, reduce portal hypertension by decreasing intrahepatic resistance or portal tributary blood flow or by blunting inflammatory stimuli inside and outside the liver. Here, the interactions among the gut, liver, and brain are increasingly examined for new therapeutic options. There is no general panacea. The interruption of initiating factors is key. If not possible or if not possible in a timely manner, combined approaches should receive more attention before considering liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jonel Trebicka
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,European Foundation for Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
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41
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Shen TCD, Pyrsopoulos N, Rustgi VK. Microbiota and the liver. Liver Transpl 2018; 24:539-550. [PMID: 29316191 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The gut microbiome outnumbers the human genome by 150-fold and plays important roles in metabolism, immune system education, tolerance development, and prevention of pathogen colonization. Dysbiosis has been associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) as well as cirrhosis and complications. This article provides an overview of this relationship. Liver Transplantation 24 539-550 2018 AASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Chin David Shen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Nikolaos Pyrsopoulos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
| | - Vinod K Rustgi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine, Rutgers Health, New Brunswick, NJ
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Lee HH, Park JM, Han S, Park SM, Kim HY, Oh JH, Kim CW, Yoon SK, Choi MG. A simplified prognostic model to predict mortality in patients with acute variceal bleeding. Dig Liver Dis 2018; 50:247-253. [PMID: 29208551 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2017.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute variceal bleeding (AVB) is a major cause of death in patients with liver cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to investigate mortality predictors and develop a new simple prognostic model using easily verified factors at admission in AVB patients. METHODS Between January 2009 and May 2015, 333 consecutive patients with AVB were included. A simplified prognostic model was developed using multiple logistic regression after identifying significant predictors of 6-week mortality. Mortality prediction accuracy was assessed with area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve. We compared the new model to existing models of model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and Child-Pugh scores. RESULTS The 6-week overall mortality rate was 12.9%. Multivariate analysis showed that C-reactive protein (CRP), total bilirubin, and the international normalized ratio were independent predictors of mortality. A new logistic model using these variables was developed. This model's AUROC was 0.834, which was significantly higher than that of MELD (0.764) or Child-Pugh scores (0.699). Two external validation studies showed that the AUROC of our model was consistently higher than 0.8. CONCLUSIONS Our new simplified model accurately and consistently predicted 6-week mortality in patients with AVB using objective variables measured at admission. Our system can be used to identify high risk AVB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Hee Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Myung Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seunghoon Han
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Min Park
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Yeon Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hwan Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Wook Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Kew Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Gyu Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
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Svistunov AA, Osadchuk MA, Kireeva NV, Osadchuk MM. Optimizing therapy of liver diseases not associated with viral infection. TERAPEVT ARKH 2018; 90:105-111. [DOI: 10.26442/terarkh2018902105-111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The review demonstrated results and prospects of non-pharmacological and drug therapy patients with liver disease, not associated with a viral infection. The presented data emphasize the relevance of studying the problem of effective therapy of diseases of the liver and its role in improving the course and outcomes of liver disease.
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44
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Sinkala E, Zyambo K, Besa E, Kaonga P, Nsokolo B, Kayamba V, Vinikoor M, Zulu R, Bwalya M, Foster GR, Kelly P. Rifaximin Reduces Markers of Inflammation and Bacterial 16S rRNA in Zambian Adults with Hepatosplenic Schistosomiasis: A Randomized Control Trial. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2018; 98:1152-1158. [PMID: 29436337 PMCID: PMC5928821 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.17-0637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is the dominant cause of portal hypertension globally but may be overshadowed by hepatosplenic schistosomiasis (HSS) in the tropics. In Zambia, schistosomiasis seroprevalence can reach 88% in endemic areas. Bacterial translocation (BT) drives portal hypertension in cirrhosis contributing to mortality but remains unexplored in HSS. Rifaximin, a non-absorbable antibiotic may reduce BT. We aimed to explore the influence of rifaximin on BT, inflammation, and fibrosis in HSS. In this phase II open-label trial (ISRCTN67590499), 186 patients with HSS in Zambia were evaluated and 85 were randomized to standard care with or without rifaximin for 42 days. Changes in markers of inflammation, BT, and fibrosis were the primary outcomes. BT was measured using plasma 16S rRNA, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, and lipopolysaccharide, whereas hyaluronan was used to measure fibrosis. Tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) and soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14) assessed inflammation. 16S rRNA reduced from baseline (median 146 copies/µL, interquartile range [IQR] 9, 537) to day 42 in the rifaximin group (median 63 copies/µL, IQR 12, 196), P < 0.01. The rise in sCD14 was lower (P < 0.01) in the rifaximin group (median rise 122 ng/mL, IQR-184, 783) than in the non-rifaximin group (median rise 832 ng/mL, IQR 530, 967). TNFR1 decreased (P < 0.01) in the rifaximin group (median -39 ng/mL IQR-306, 563) but increased in the non-rifaximin group (median 166 ng/mL, IQR 3, 337). Other markers remained unaffected. Rifaximin led to a reduction of inflammatory markers and bacterial 16S rRNA which may implicate BT in the inflammation in HSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edford Sinkala
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kanekwa Zyambo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ellen Besa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Patrick Kaonga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Bright Nsokolo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Violet Kayamba
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michael Vinikoor
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Rabison Zulu
- Paediatric Centre of Excellence Laboratory, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Martin Bwalya
- Paediatric Centre of Excellence Laboratory, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Graham R Foster
- Blizard Institute, Barts & The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Kelly
- Paediatric Centre of Excellence Laboratory, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutritional Group, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
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Visceral Congestion in Heart Failure: Right Ventricular Dysfunction, Splanchnic Hemodynamics, and the Intestinal Microenvironment. Curr Heart Fail Rep 2018; 14:519-528. [PMID: 29075956 DOI: 10.1007/s11897-017-0370-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Visceral venous congestion of the gut may play a key role in the pathogenesis of right-sided heart failure (HF) and cardiorenal syndromes. Here, we review the role of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, visceral congestion, splanchnic hemodynamics, and the intestinal microenvironment in the setting of right-sided HF. We review recent literature on this topic, outline possible mechanisms of disease pathogenesis, and discuss potential therapeutics. RECENT FINDINGS There are several mechanisms linking RV-gut interactions via visceral venous congestion which could result in (1) hypoxia and acidosis in enterocytes, which may lead to enhanced sodium-hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) expression with increased sodium and fluid retention; (2) decreased luminal pH in the intestines, which could lead to alteration of the gut microbiome which could increase gut permeability and inflammation; (3) alteration of renal hemodynamics with triggering of the cardiorenal syndrome; and (4) altered phosphate metabolism resulting in increased pulmonary artery stiffening, thereby increasing RV afterload. A wide variety of therapeutic interventions that act on the RV, pulmonary vasculature, intestinal microenvironment, and the kidney could alter these pathways and should be tested in patients with right-sided HF. The RV-gut axis is an important aspect of HF pathogenesis that deserves more attention. Modulation of the pathways interconnecting the right heart, visceral congestion, and the intestinal microenvironment could be a novel avenue of intervention for right-sided HF.
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Shin SK, Kwon OS, Lee JJ, Park YH, Choi CS, Jeong SH, Choi DJ, Kim YS, Kim JH. Effect of Rifaximin on Hepatic Fibrosis in Bile Duct-ligated Rat Model. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2017; 70:239-246. [PMID: 29161793 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2017.70.5.239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background/Aims The translocation of bacteria and their lipopolysaccharides from the gut can promote fibrosis in cirrhotic patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of rifaximin on hepatic fibrosis in a bile duct-ligated rat model. Methods The bile duct ligation (BDL) was carried out for eight days (acute injury model: sham-operated rats [G1], BDL rats [G2], and BDL rats treated with rifaximin [G3]) or 22 days (chronic injury model: sham-operated rats [G4], BDL rats [G5], and BDL rats treated with rifaximin [G6]). Rifaximin (50 mg/kg/day) was administered daily via gavage after BDL. Liver function, serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and hepatic hydroxyproline levels were measured. Moreover, a histological analysis of fibrosis contents was performed using sirius red stain. Results In the acute injury model, the liver function and TNF-α level were not improved after the rifaximin treatment. The hydroxyproline levels (µg/g liver tissue) in G1, G2, and G3 were 236.4±103.1, 444.8±114.4, and 312.5±131.6, respectively; and fibrosis contents (%) were 0.22±0.04, 1.64±0.53, and 1.66±0.44, respectively. The rifaximin treatment did not ameliorate acute BDL-induced fibrosis. In the chronic injury model, the hydroxyproline levels in G4, G5, and G6 were 311.5±72.9, 1,110.3±357.9, and 944.3±209.3, respectively; and fibrosis contents (%) were 0.19±0.03, 5.04±0.18, and 4.42±0.68, respectively (G5 vs. G6, p=0.059). The rifaximin treatment marginally ameliorated chronic BDL-induced fibrosis. Conclusions Rifaximin did not reduce inflammation and fibrosis in bile duct-ligated rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Kak Shin
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Oh Sang Kwon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jong Joon Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Yeon Ho Park
- Department of Surgery, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Cheol Soo Choi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Sung Hwan Jeong
- Division Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Duck Joo Choi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Yun Soo Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Ju Hyun Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
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Kang SH, Lee YB, Lee JH, Nam JY, Chang Y, Cho H, Yoo JJ, Cho YY, Cho EJ, Yu SJ, Kim MY, Kim YJ, Baik SK, Yoon JH. Rifaximin treatment is associated with reduced risk of cirrhotic complications and prolonged overall survival in patients experiencing hepatic encephalopathy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 46:845-855. [PMID: 28836723 DOI: 10.1111/apt.14275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 03/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rifaximin might decrease the risk of portal hypertension-related complications by controlling small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. AIM To evaluate whether rifaximin was associated with the risk of death and cirrhotic complications. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study that included 1042 patients experiencing hepatic encephalopathy (HE): 421 patients without hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; the non-HCC cohort) and 621 patients with HCC (the HCC cohort). The primary endpoint was overall survival and secondary endpoints were recurrence of HE and the development of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) and variceal bleeding. RESULTS In the non-HCC cohort, 145 patients received rifaximin plus lactulose (the rifaximin group) and 276 patients received lactulose alone (the control group). The multivariate analysis revealed that rifaximin was significantly associated with lower risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.697; P = .024) and reduced the risk of recurrent HE (aHR, 0.452; P < .001), SBP (aHR, 0.210; P < .001) and variceal bleeding (aHR, 0.425; P = .011) but not HRS (aHR, 0.598; P = .08). In the HCC cohort, 173 patients received rifaximin plus lactulose and 448 patients received lactulose. Rifaximin was not associated with the risk of death (aHR, 1.177; P = .121). Rifaximin was associated with lower risk of SBP (aHR, 0.323; P < .001) but not with variceal bleeding (aHR, 0.660; P = .104) or recurrent HE (aHR, 0.689; P = .057). The risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea was not different between the groups (aHR, 0.028; P = .338). CONCLUSIONS In patients without HCC, rifaximin treatment was significantly associated with prolonged overall survival and reduced risks of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, variceal bleeding and recurrent hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S H Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Y B Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - J-H Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - J Y Nam
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Y Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - H Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - J-J Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Y Y Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - E J Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - S J Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - M Y Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Y J Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - S K Baik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - J-H Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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48
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Singh S, Osna NA, Kharbanda KK. Treatment options for alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A review. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:6549-6570. [PMID: 29085205 PMCID: PMC5643281 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i36.6549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are serious health problems worldwide. These two diseases have similar pathological spectra, ranging from simple steatosis to hepatitis to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although most people with excessive alcohol or calorie intake display abnormal fat accumulation in the liver (simple steatosis), a small percentage develops progressive liver disease. Despite extensive research on understanding the pathophysiology of both these diseases there are still no targeted therapies available. The treatment for ALD remains as it was 50 years ago: abstinence, nutritional support and corticosteroids (or pentoxifylline as an alternative if steroids are contraindicated). As for NAFLD, the treatment modality is mainly directed toward weight loss and co-morbidity management. Therefore, new pathophysiology directed therapies are urgently needed. However, the involvement of several inter-related pathways in the pathogenesis of these diseases suggests that a single therapeutic agent is unlikely to be an effective treatment strategy. Hence, a combination therapy towards multiple targets would eventually be required. In this review, we delineate the treatment options in ALD and NAFLD, including various new targeted therapies that are currently under investigation. We hope that soon we will be having an effective multi-therapeutic regimen for each disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukhpreet Singh
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, United States
| | - Natalia A Osna
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
| | - Kusum K Kharbanda
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
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49
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Fukui H. Gut Microbiome-based Therapeutics in Liver Cirrhosis: Basic Consideration for the Next Step. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2017; 5:249-260. [PMID: 28936406 PMCID: PMC5606971 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2017.00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections account for significant morbidity and mortality in liver cirrhosis and most are related to the gut microbiome. Fecal dysbiosis, characterized by an overgrowth of potentially pathogenic bacteria and a decrease in autochthonous non-pathogenic bacteria, becomes prominent with the progression of liver cirrhosis. In cirrhotic patients, disruption of the intestinal barrier causes intestinal hyperpermeability (i.e. leaky gut), which is closely related to gut dysmotility, dysbiosis and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and may induce pathological bacterial translocation. Although the involved microbial taxa are somewhat different between the cirrhotic patients from the East and the West, the common manifestation of a shortage of bacteria that contribute to the production of short-chain fatty acids and secondary bile acids may facilitate intestinal inflammation, leaky gut and gut dysbiosis. Translocated endotoxin and bacterial DNA are capable of provoking potent inflammation and affecting the metabolic and hemodynamic systems, which may ultimately enhance the progression of liver cirrhosis and its various complications, such as hepatic encephalopathy (HE), variceal bleeding, infection and renal disturbances. Among studies on the microbiome-based therapeutics, findings of probiotic effects on HE have been contradictory in spite of several supportive results. However, the effects of synbiotics and prebiotics are substantially documented. The background of their effectiveness should be evaluated again in relation to the cirrhosis-related changes in gut microbiome and their metabolic effects. Strict indications for the antibiotic rifaximin remain unestablished, although its effect is promising, improving HE and other complications with little influence on microbial populations. The final goal of microbiome-based therapeutics is to adjust the gut-liver axis to the maximal benefit of cirrhotic patients, with the aid of evolving metagenomic and metabolomic analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Fukui
- *Correspondence to: Hiroshi Fukui, Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho Kashihara, 634-8522 Nara, Japan. Tel: +81-744223051, E-mail:
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50
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of worldwide cancer mortality. HCC almost exclusively develops in patients with chronic liver disease, driven by a vicious cycle of liver injury, inflammation and regeneration that typically spans decades. Increasing evidence points towards a key role of the bacterial microbiome in promoting the progression of liver disease and the development of HCC. Here, we will review mechanisms by which the gut microbiota promotes hepatocarcinogenesis, focusing on the leaky gut, bacterial dysbiosis, microbe-associated molecular patterns and bacterial metabolites as key pathways that drive cancer-promoting liver inflammation, fibrosis and genotoxicity. On the basis of accumulating evidence from preclinical studies, we propose the intestinal-microbiota-liver axis as a promising target for the simultaneous prevention of chronic liver disease progression and HCC development in patients with advanced liver disease. We will review in detail therapeutic modalities and discuss clinical settings in which targeting the gut-microbiota-liver axis for the prevention of disease progression and HCC development seems promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le-Xing Yu
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, 1130 St. Nicholas Avenue, Room 926, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Robert F Schwabe
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, 1130 St. Nicholas Avenue, Room 926, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Institute of Human Nutrition, 1130 St. Nicholas Avenue, Room 926, New York, New York 10032, USA
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