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An L, Chang G, Zhang L, Wang P, Gao W, Li X. Pectin: Health-promoting properties as a natural galectin-3 inhibitor. Glycoconj J 2024; 41:93-118. [PMID: 38630380 DOI: 10.1007/s10719-024-10152-z] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Galectin-3 has a variety of important pathophysiological significance in the human body. Much evidence shows that the abnormal expression of galectin-3 is related to the formation and development of many diseases. Pectin is mostly obtained from processed citrus fruits and apples and is a known natural inhibitor of galactin-3. A large number of peels produced each year are discarded, and it is necessary to recycle some of the economically valuable active compounds in these by-products to reduce resource waste and environmental pollution. By binding with galectin-3, pectin can directly reduce the expression level of galectin-3 on the one hand, and regulate the expression level of cytokines by regulating certain signaling pathways on the other hand, to achieve the effect of treating diseases. This paper begins by presenting an overview of the basic structure of pectin, subsequently followed by a description of the structure of galectin-3 and its detrimental impact on human health when expressed abnormally. The health effects of pectin as a galectin-3 inhibitor were then summarized from the perspectives of anticancer, anti-inflammatory, ameliorating fibrotic diseases, and anti-diabetes. Finally, the challenges and prospects of future research on pectin are presented, which provide important references for expanding the application of pectin in the pharmaceutical industry or developing functional dietary supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhuo An
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Guanglu Chang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Resources Research Enterprises, Tianjin, 300402, China
| | - Luyao Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Pengwang Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Wenyuan Gao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China.
| | - Xia Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China.
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Chen L, Guo W, Mao C, Shen J, Wan M. Liver fibrosis: pathological features, clinical treatment and application of therapeutic nanoagents. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:1446-1466. [PMID: 38265305 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02790b] [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: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a reversible damage-repair response, the pathological features of which mainly include damage to hepatocytes, sinusoid capillarization, hepatic stellate cells activation, excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix and inflammatory response. Although some treatments (including drugs and stem cell therapy) for these pathological features have been shown to be effective, more clinical trials are needed to confirm their effectiveness. In recent years, nanomaterials-based therapies have emerged as an innovative and promising alternative to traditional drugs, being explored for the treatment of liver fibrosis diseases. Natural nanomaterials (including extracellular vesicles) and synthetic nanomaterials (including inorganic nanomaterials and organic nanomaterials) are developed to facilitate drug targeting delivery and combination therapy. In this review, the pathological features of liver fibrosis and the current anti-fibrosis drugs in clinical trials are briefly introduced, followed by a detailed introduction of the therapeutic nanoagents for the precise delivery of anti-fibrosis drugs. Finally, the future development trend in this field is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Chen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Wenyan Guo
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Chun Mao
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Jian Shen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Mimi Wan
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Chouari T, Merali N, La Costa F, Santol J, Chapman S, Horton A, Aroori S, Connell J, Rockall TA, Mole D, Starlinger P, Welsh F, Rees M, Frampton AE. The Role of the Multiparametric MRI LiverMultiScan TM in the Quantitative Assessment of the Liver and Its Predicted Clinical Applications in Patients Undergoing Major Hepatic Resection for Colorectal Liver Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4863. [PMID: 37835557 PMCID: PMC10571783 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for the histological assessment of the liver. With clear disadvantages and the rise in the incidences of liver disease, the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) and an explosion of surgical management options available, non-invasive serological and imaging markers of liver histopathology have never been more pertinent in order to assess liver health and stratify patients considered for surgical intervention. Liver MRI is a leading modality in the assessment of hepatic malignancy. Recent technological advancements in multiparametric MRI software such as the LiverMultiScanTM offers an attractive non-invasive assay of anatomy and histopathology in the pre-operative setting, especially in the context of CRLM. This narrative review examines the evidence for the LiverMultiScanTM in the assessment of hepatic fibrosis, steatosis/steatohepatitis, and potential applications for chemotherapy-associated hepatic changes. We postulate its future role and the hurdles it must surpass in order to be implemented in the pre-operative management of patients undergoing hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastasis. Such a role likely extends to other hepatic malignancies planned for resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarak Chouari
- MATTU, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (T.C.)
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
- Oncology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
| | - Nabeel Merali
- MATTU, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (T.C.)
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
- Oncology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
| | - Francesca La Costa
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
| | - Jonas Santol
- Department of Surgery, HPB Center, Vienna Health Network, Clinic Favoriten and Sigmund Freud Private University, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Vascular Biology and Thrombosis Research, Center of Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Shelley Chapman
- Department of Radiology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
| | - Alex Horton
- Department of Radiology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
| | - Somaiah Aroori
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Transplant Surgery, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth PL6 8DH, UK
| | | | - Timothy A. Rockall
- MATTU, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (T.C.)
- Oncology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
| | - Damian Mole
- Clinical Surgery, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH10 5HF, UK
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH105HF, UK
| | - Patrick Starlinger
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
- Center of Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, General Hospital, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Fenella Welsh
- Hepato-Biliary Unit, Hampshire Hospitals Foundation Trust, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 9NA, UK
| | - Myrddin Rees
- Hepato-Biliary Unit, Hampshire Hospitals Foundation Trust, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 9NA, UK
| | - Adam E. Frampton
- MATTU, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK; (T.C.)
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
- Oncology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
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Mackinnon AC, Tonev D, Jacoby B, Pinzani M, Slack RJ. Galectin-3: therapeutic targeting in liver disease. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:779-791. [PMID: 37705214 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2258280] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The rising incidence of liver diseases is a worldwide healthcare concern. However, the therapeutic options to manage chronic inflammation and fibrosis, the processes at the basis of morbidity and mortality of liver diseases, are very limited. Galectin 3 (Gal-3) is a protein implicated in fibrosis in multiple organs. Several Gal-3 inhibitors are currently in clinical development. AREAS COVERED This review describes our current understanding of the role of Gal-3 in chronic liver diseases, with special emphasis on fibrosis. Also, we review therapeutic advances based on Gal-3 inhibition, describing drug properties and their current status in clinical research. EXPERT OPINION Currently, the known effects of Gal-3 point to a direct activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome leading to its activation in liver macrophages and activated macrophages play a key role in tissue fibrogenesis. However, more research is needed to elucidate the role of Gal-3 in the different activation pathways, dissecting the intracellular and extracellular mechanisms of Gal-3, and its role in pathogenesis. Gal-3 could be a target for early therapy of numerous hepatic diseases and, given the lack of therapeutic options for liver fibrosis, there is a strong pharmacologic potential for Gal-3-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dimitar Tonev
- Galecto Biotech AB, Cobis Science Park, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brian Jacoby
- Galecto Biotech AB, Cobis Science Park, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robert J Slack
- Galecto Biotech AB, Cobis Science Park, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Ahmed R, Anam K, Ahmed H. Development of Galectin-3 Targeting Drugs for Therapeutic Applications in Various Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098116. [PMID: 37175823 PMCID: PMC10179732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Galectin-3 (Gal3) is one of the most studied members of the galectin family that mediate various biological processes such as growth regulation, immune function, cancer metastasis, and apoptosis. Since Gal3 is pro-inflammatory, it is involved in many diseases that are associated with chronic inflammation such as cancer, organ fibrosis, and type 2 diabetes. As a multifunctional protein involved in multiple pathways of many diseases, Gal3 has generated significant interest in pharmaceutical industries. As a result, several Gal3-targeting therapeutic drugs are being developed to address unmet medical needs. Based on the PubMed search of Gal3 to date (1987-2023), here, we briefly describe its structure, carbohydrate-binding properties, endogenous ligands, and roles in various diseases. We also discuss its potential antagonists that are currently being investigated clinically or pre-clinically by the public and private companies. The updated knowledge on Gal3 function in various diseases could initiate new clinical or pre-clinical investigations to test therapeutic strategies, and some of these strategies could be successful and recognized as novel therapeutics for unmet medical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakin Ahmed
- GlycoMantra Inc., Biotechnology Center, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA
| | - Khairul Anam
- GlycoMantra Inc., Biotechnology Center, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA
| | - Hafiz Ahmed
- GlycoMantra Inc., Biotechnology Center, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA
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Yu X, Qian J, Ding L, Yin S, Zhou L, Zheng S. Galectin-1: A Traditionally Immunosuppressive Protein Displays Context-Dependent Capacities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076501. [PMID: 37047471 PMCID: PMC10095249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Galectin–Carbohydrate interactions are indispensable to pathogen recognition and immune response. Galectin-1, a ubiquitously expressed 14-kDa protein with an evolutionarily conserved β-galactoside binding site, translates glycoconjugate recognition into function. That galectin-1 is demonstrated to induce T cell apoptosis has led to substantial attention to the immunosuppressive properties of this protein, such as inducing naive immune cells to suppressive phenotypes, promoting recruitment of immunosuppressing cells as well as impairing functions of cytotoxic leukocytes. However, only in recent years have studies shown that galectin-1 appears to perform a pro-inflammatory role in certain diseases. In this review, we describe the anti-inflammatory function of galectin-1 and its possible mechanisms and summarize the existing therapies and preclinical efficacy relating to these agents. In the meantime, we also discuss the potential causal factors by which galectin-1 promotes the progression of inflammation.
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Dennis A. Quantitative imaging tests for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: which, when and why. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 8:1. [PMID: 36704644 PMCID: PMC9813660 DOI: 10.21037/tgh-22-85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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Fu Y, Zhou Y, Shen L, Li X, Zhang H, Cui Y, Zhang K, Li W, Chen WD, Zhao S, Li Y, Ye W. Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:973366. [PMID: 36408234 PMCID: PMC9666875 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.973366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The global incidence rate of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is approximately 25%. With the global increase in obesity and its associated metabolic syndromes, NAFLD has become an important cause of chronic liver disease in many countries. Despite recent advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutics, there are still challenges in its treatment. In this review, we briefly describe diagnostic methods, therapeutic targets, and drugs related to NAFLD. In particular, we focus on evaluating carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, lipotoxicity, cell death, inflammation, and fibrosis as potential therapeutic targets for NAFLD. We also summarized the clinical research progress in terms of drug development and combination therapy, thereby providing references for NAFLD drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yanzhi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Linhu Shen
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xuewen Li
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Haorui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yeqi Cui
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Weiguo Li
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Wei-dong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Science, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Shizhen Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shizhen Zhao, ; Yunfu Li, ; Wenling Ye,
| | - Yunfu Li
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shizhen Zhao, ; Yunfu Li, ; Wenling Ye,
| | - Wenling Ye
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation, Hebi Key Laboratory of Liver Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The People’s Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shizhen Zhao, ; Yunfu Li, ; Wenling Ye,
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Andersson A, Kelly M, Imajo K, Nakajima A, Fallowfield JA, Hirschfield G, Pavlides M, Sanyal AJ, Noureddin M, Banerjee R, Dennis A, Harrison S. Clinical Utility of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Biomarkers for Identifying Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Patients at High Risk of Progression: A Multicenter Pooled Data and Meta-Analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:2451-2461.e3. [PMID: 34626833 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing in prevalence worldwide. NAFLD is associated with excess risk of all-cause mortality, and its progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis accounts for a growing proportion of cirrhosis and hepatocellular cancer and thus is a leading cause of liver transplant worldwide. Noninvasive precise methods to identify patients with NASH and NASH with significant disease activity and fibrosis are crucial when the disease is still modifiable. The aim of this study was to examine the clinical utility of corrected T1 (cT1) vs magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) liver fat for identification of NASH participants with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease activity score ≥4 and fibrosis stage (F) ≥2 (high-risk NASH). METHODS Data from five clinical studies (n = 543) with participants suspected of NAFLD were pooled or used for individual participant data meta-analysis. The diagnostic accuracy of the MRI biomarkers to stratify NASH patients was determined using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). RESULTS A stepwise increase in cT1 and MRI liver fat with increased NAFLD severity was shown, and cT1 was significantly higher in participants with high-risk NASH. The diagnostic accuracy (AUROC) of cT1 to identify patients with NASH was 0.78 (95% CI, 0.74-0.82), for liver fat was 0.78 (95% CI, 0.73-0.82), and when combined with MRI liver fat was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.78-0.85). The diagnostic accuracy of cT1 to identify patients with high-risk NASH was good (AUROC = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.74-0.82), was superior to MRI liver fat (AUROC = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.64-0.74), and was not substantially improved by combining it with MRI liver fat (AUROC = 0.79; 95% CI, 0.75-0.83). The meta-analysis showed similar performance to the pooled analysis for these biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that quantitative MRI-derived biomarkers cT1 and liver fat are suitable for identifying patients with NASH, and cT1 is a better noninvasive technology than liver fat to identify NASH patients at greatest risk of disease progression. Therefore, MRI cT1 and liver fat have important clinical utility to help guide the appropriate use of interventions in NAFLD and NASH clinical care pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matt Kelly
- Perspectum Ltd, Gemini One, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kento Imajo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nakajima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Gideon Hirschfield
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Pavlides
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom; Translational Gastroenterology Unit, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Arun J Sanyal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virgina
| | - Mazen Noureddin
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | | | | | - Stephen Harrison
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Bradley CR, Cox EF, Palaniyappan N, Aithal GP, Francis ST, Guha IN. Variability of noninvasive MRI and biological markers in compensated cirrhosis: insights for assessing disease progression. Eur Radiol Exp 2022; 6:52. [PMID: 36274113 PMCID: PMC9588852 DOI: 10.1186/s41747-022-00303-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We annually monitored stable compensated cirrhosis (CC) patients to evaluate serial variation in blood serum, liver stiffness, and multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) measures to provide reference change values (RCV) and sample size measures for future studies. Methods Patients were recruited from a prospectively followed CC cohort, with assessments at baseline and annually over three years. We report on blood markers, transient elastography liver stiffness measures (LSM) and noninvasive mpMRI (volume, T1 mapping, blood flow, perfusion) of the liver, spleen, kidneys, and heart in a stable CC group and a healthy volunteer (HV) group. Coefficient of variation over time (CoVT) and RCV are reported, along with hazard ratio to assess disease progression. Sample size estimates to power future trials of cirrhosis regression on mpMRI are presented. Results Of 60 CC patients enrolled, 28 with stable CC were followed longitudinally and compared to 10 HVs. CoVT in mpMRI measures was comparable between CC and HV groups. CoVT of Enhanced Liver Fibrosis score was low (< 5%) compared to Fibrosis-4 index (17.9%) and Aspartate Aminotransferase-to-Platelet-Ratio Index (19.4%). A large CoVT (20.7%) and RCV (48.3%) were observed for LSM. CoVT and RCV were low for liver, spleen, and renal T1 values (CoVT < 5%, RCV < 8%) and volume (CoVT < 10%, RCV < 16%); haemodynamic measures were high (CoVT 12–25%, RCV 16–47%). Conclusions Evidence of low CoVT and RCV in multiorgan T1 values. RCV and sample size estimates are provided for future longitudinal multiorgan monitoring in CC patients. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02037867, Registered: 05/01/2013.
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Nangia-Makker P, Hogan V, Balan V, Raz A. Chimeric galectin-3 and collagens: Biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in fibroproliferative diseases. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102622. [PMID: 36272642 PMCID: PMC9706532 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis, stiffening and scarring of an organ/tissue due to genetic abnormalities, environmental factors, infection, and/or injury, is responsible for > 40% of all deaths in the industrialized world, and to date, there is no cure for it despite extensive research and numerous clinical trials. Several biomarkers have been identified, but no effective therapeutic targets are available. Human galectin-3 is a chimeric gene product formed by the fusion of the internal domain of the collagen alpha gene [N-terminal domain (ND)] at the 5'-end of galectin-1 [C-terminal domain (CRD)] that appeared during evolution together with vertebrates. Due to the overlapping structural similarities between collagen and galectin-3 and their shared susceptibility to cleavage by matrix metalloproteases to generate circulating collagen-like peptides, this review will discuss present knowledge on the role of collagen and galectin-3 as biomarkers of fibrosis. We will also highlight the need for transformative approaches targeting both the ND and CRD domains of galectin-3, since glycoconjugate binding by the CRD is triggered by ND-mediated oligomerization and the therapies targeted only at the CRD have so far achieved limited success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Nangia-Makker
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, Redwood City, California, USA,For correspondence: Pratima Nangia-Makker; Avraham Raz
| | - Victor Hogan
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, Redwood City, California, USA
| | - Vitaly Balan
- Guardant Health, Bioinformatics, Redwood City, California, USA
| | - Avraham Raz
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, Redwood City, California, USA,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA,For correspondence: Pratima Nangia-Makker; Avraham Raz
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Bajre M, Moawad M, Shumbayawonda E, Carolan JE, Hart J, Culver E, Heneghan M. LiverMultiScan as an alternative to liver biopsy to monitor autoimmune hepatitis in the National Health Service in England: an economic evaluation. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058999. [PMID: 36691214 PMCID: PMC9462097 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare chronic progressive liver disease, managed with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants and monitored using a combination of liver biochemistry and histology. Liver biopsy (gold standard) is invasive, costly and has risk of complications. Non-invasive imaging using multiparametric magnetic resonance (mpMR) can detect the presence and extent of hepatic fibroinflammation in a risk-free manner. OBJECTIVE To conduct early economic modelling to assess the affordability of using mpMR as an alternative to liver biopsy. METHODS Medical test costs associated with following 100 patients over a 5-year time horizon were assessed from a National Health Service payor perspective using tariff costs and average biopsy-related adverse events costs. Sensitivity analyses modelling the cost consequences of increasing the frequency of mpMR monitoring within the fixed cost of liver biopsy were performed. RESULTS Per 100 moderate/severe AIH patients receiving an annual mpMR scan (in place of biopsy), early economic modelling showed minimum cost savings of £232 333. Per 100 mild/moderate AIH patients receiving three mpMR scans over 5 years estimated minimum cost savings were £139 400. One-way sensitivity analyses showed increasing the frequency of mpMR scans from 5 to 10 over 5 years in moderate/severe AIH patients results in a cost saving of £121 926.20. In patients with mild/moderate AIH, an increase from 3 to 6 mpMR scans over 5 years could save £73 155.72. In a minimalistic approach, the use of 5 mpMR scans was still cost saving (£5770.48) if they were to replace two biopsies over the 5-year period for all patients with moderate/severe or mild/moderate AIH. CONCLUSIONS Integration of mpMR scans in AIH patient pathways leads to significant cost savings when liver biopsy frequency is either reduced or eliminated, in addition to improved patient experience and clinician acceptability as well as providing detailed phenotyping to improve patient outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03979053.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamta Bajre
- Oxford Academic Health Science Network, Oxford, UK
| | - Mina Moawad
- Oxford Academic Health Science Network, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Julie Hart
- Oxford Academic Health Science Network, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma Culver
- John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Yan M, Man S, Ma L, Gao W. Comprehensive molecular mechanisms and clinical therapy in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: An overview and current perspectives. Metabolism 2022; 134:155264. [PMID: 35810782 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2022.155264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) pathophysiology continues to advance rapidly. Given the complexity of the pathogenesis of NASH, the field has moved from describing the single pathogenesis of NASH to deeply phenotyping with a description of the multi-mechanism and multi-target pathogenesis that includes glucose, lipid and cholesterol metabolism, fibrotic progression, inflammation, immune reaction and apoptosis. To make the picture more complex, the pathogenesis of NASH involves pathological connections between the liver and several organs such as the adipose, pancreas, kidney and gut. Numerous pharmacologic candidates have been tested in clinical trials and have generated some positive results. Importantly, PPAR as triglyceride synthesis inhibitor and FXR as bile acids synthesis inhibitor have displayed beneficial effects on candidates for lipid and cholesterol metabolism. Although the efficacy of these drugs has been affirmed, serious side effects hinder their further development. It is a particularly important task to carry out the in-depth long-term research. Additionally, drug combination increases response rate and reduces side effects of a single drug. Mastering the advantages and limitations of clinical candidate drugs and continuous improvement and innovation are necessary to formulate a new strategy for the future treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Shuli Man
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China.
| | - Long Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China.
| | - Wenyuan Gao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China.
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Li J, Yin M. Liver Fibrosis: Counterpoint-MR Elastography Is the Noninvasive Imaging Modality of Choice for Detecting and Staging Liver Fibrosis. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2022; 219:384-385. [PMID: 35319909 PMCID: PMC9558097 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.22.27676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Li
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Meng Yin
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
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Shan L, Wang F, Zhai D, Meng X, Liu J, Lv X. New Drugs for Hepatic Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:874408. [PMID: 35770089 PMCID: PMC9234287 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.874408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The morbidity and mortality of hepatic fibrosis caused by various etiologies are high worldwide, and the trend is increasing annually. At present, there is no effective method to cure hepatic fibrosis except liver transplantation, and its serious complications threaten the health of patients and cause serious medical burdens. Additionally, there is no specific drug for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis, and many drugs with anti-hepatic fibrosis effects are in the research and development stage. Recently, remarkable progress has been made in the research and development of anti-hepatic fibrosis drugs targeting different targets. We searched websites such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Home-ClinicalTrials.gov and found approximately 120 drugs with anti-fibrosis properties, some of which are in phase Ⅱ or Ⅲ clinical trials. Additionally, although these drugs are effective against hepatic fibrosis in animal models, most clinical trials have shown poor results, mainly because animal models do not capture the complexity of human hepatic fibrosis. Besides, the effect of natural products on hepatic fibrosis has not been widely recognized at home and abroad. Furthermore, drugs targeting a single anti-hepatic fibrosis target are prone to adverse reactions. Therefore, currently, the treatment of hepatic fibrosis requires a combination of drugs that target multiple targets. Ten new drugs with potential for development against hepatic fibrosis were selected and highlighted in this mini-review, which provides a reference for clinical drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Shan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Hefei, China
| | - Fengling Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Dandan Zhai
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiangyun Meng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Jianjun Liu, ; Xiongwen Lv,
| | - Xiongwen Lv
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Jianjun Liu, ; Xiongwen Lv,
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Yu HX, Feng Z, Lin W, Yang K, Liu RQ, Li JQ, Liu XY, Pei M, Yang HT. Ongoing Clinical Trials in Aging-Related Tissue Fibrosis and New Findings Related to AhR Pathways. Aging Dis 2022; 13:732-752. [PMID: 35656117 PMCID: PMC9116921 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.1105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a pathological manifestation of wound healing that replaces dead/damaged tissue with collagen-rich scar tissue to maintain homeostasis, and complications from fibrosis contribute to nearly half of all deaths in the industrialized world. Ageing is closely associated with a progressive decline in organ function, and the prevalence of tissue fibrosis dramatically increases with age. Despite the heavy clinical and economic burden of organ fibrosis as the population ages, to date, there is a paucity of therapeutic strategies that are specifically designed to slow fibrosis. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is an environment-sensing transcription factor that exacerbates aging phenotypes in different tissues that has been brought back into the spotlight again with economic development since AhR could interact with persistent organic pollutants derived from incomplete waste combustion. In addition, gut microbiota dysbiosis plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, and microbiota-associated tryptophan metabolites are dedicated contributors to fibrogenesis by acting as AhR ligands. Therefore, a better understanding of the effects of tryptophan metabolites on fibrosis modulation through AhR may facilitate the exploitation of new therapeutic avenues for patients with organ fibrosis. In this review, we primarily focus on how tryptophan-derived metabolites are involved in renal fibrosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, hepatic fibrosis and cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, a series of ongoing clinical trials are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang-Xing Yu
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhe Feng
- 3Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Lin
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Kang Yang
- 4Kidney Disease Treatment Center, The first affiliated hospital of Henan university of CM, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Rui-Qi Liu
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Jia-Qi Li
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin-Yue Liu
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Ming Pei
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong-Tao Yang
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
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Dolan RS, Stillman AE, Davarpanah AH. Feasibility of Hepatic T1-Mapping and Extracellular Volume Quantification on Routine Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients with Infiltrative and Systemic Disorders. Acad Radiol 2022; 29 Suppl 4:S100-S109. [PMID: 34702675 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2021.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) is commonly obtained to evaluate for myocardial infiltrative disorders and fibrosis. Pre- and post-Gadolinium contrast T1-mapping sequences are employed to estimate interstitial expansion using extracellular volume fraction (ECV). Given the proximity of the liver to the heart, T1 and ECV quantification of the liver is feasible on CMR. The purpose of this study was to evaluate for hepatic measures of fibrosis and interstitial expansion in patients with amyloidosis or systemic disease on CMR. MATERIALS AND METHODS Myocardial and hepatic native T1 values were measured retrospectively using a cardiac short axis modified Look-Locker inversion recovery sequence. Myocardial and hepatic ECV were calculated using pre- and post-contrast T1 and blood pool values according to the following formula: ECV = (Δ(1/T1) myocardium or liver and/or Δ(1/T1) blood)x(1 - hematocrit). Patients were divided into three cohorts by final diagnosis: amyloidosis, systemic disease (e.g. sarcoid, scleroderma), and controls (EF > 50, no ischemia). RESULTS Of the 135 patients who underwent CMR, 22 had cardiac amyloidosis (age 59.9 ± 12.6 yrs, 41% female), 20 had systemic disease (age 50.9 ± 13.4 yrs, 35% female), and 93 were controls (age 49.5 ± 17.3 yrs, 50% female). Myocardial T1 and ECV values were highest for patients with amyloid, second highest for systemic disease, and least for controls (T1: 1169 ± 92 vs 1101 ± 53 vs 1027 ± 73 ms, p < 0.0001; ECV: 0.47 ± 0.11 vs 0.31 ± 0.05 vs 0.27 ± 0.04, p < 0.0001). Hepatic T1 and ECV were similarly higher in patients with amyloid and systemic disease compared to controls (T1: 646 ± 101 vs 660 ± 93 vs 595 ± 58 ms, p < 0.0001; ECV: 0.38 ± 0.08 vs 0.37 ± 0.05 vs 0.31 ± 0.03, p < 0.0001). There was a positive correlation between hepatic T1 and ECV (R2 = 0.282, p < 0.0001). No patients had abnormal liver function tests or clinical liver disease. CONCLUSION Hepatic ECV quantification on CMR in patients with amyloidosis and systemic disorders is feasible. Further longitudinal investigation regarding detection of early or subclinical liver disease is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S Dolan
- Department of Radiology (R.S.D., A.E.S., A.H.D.), Emory University, 1364 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322.
| | - Arthur E Stillman
- Department of Radiology (R.S.D., A.E.S., A.H.D.), Emory University, 1364 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Amir H Davarpanah
- Department of Radiology (R.S.D., A.E.S., A.H.D.), Emory University, 1364 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322
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18
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Heneghan MA, Shumbayawonda E, Dennis A, Ahmed RZ, Rahim MN, Ney M, Smith L, Kelly M, Banerjee R, Culver EL. Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging to aid clinical decision making in autoimmune hepatitis. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 46:101325. [PMID: 35340625 PMCID: PMC8943410 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), clinical practice and treatment guidelines frequently diverge as a reflection of disease heterogeneity and challenges in achieving standardised care. We sought to explore the utility of multiparametric (mp) MR in patients with AIH, and the impact of this technology on physicians' decision making and intended patient management. METHODS 82 AIH patients, recruited from two sites between June and November 2019 as part of an observational cohort study, underwent non-contrast MRI alongside their standard clinical investigations. Correlations between iron-corrected T1 (cT1) and other markers of disease were investigated alongside the utility of imaging markers to risk stratify patients in biochemical remission. The impact of mpMR on clinical decision making was evaluated using pairwise t-tests. The discriminatory ability of the imaging markers was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs). FINDINGS cT1 had a significant impact on clinician intended patient management (p<0.0001). cT1 correlated with ALT (p = 0.0005), AST (p<0.001), IgG (p = 0.0005), and liver stiffness (p<0.0001). Patients in deep biochemical remission (N = 11; AST/ALT <50% upper limit of normal [ULN] and IgG <12 g/L) had low cT1, while 7/34 in normal biochemical remission (AST/ALT between 50 and 100% of ULN) had high cT1 and were at risk of disease flare. cT1 measures of disease heterogeneity, ALP and bilirubin made the best predictor of those not in biochemical remission (AUC:0.85). INTERPRETATION This study investigates the impact of mpMR results on intended clinical management in a real world setting. Findings showed that mpMR demonstrated a significant impact on clinical management of AIH and has the potential to inform patient risk stratification. FUNDING This paper presents independent research supported by the Innovate UK grant (104,915).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Heneghan
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author.
| | | | | | - Refah Z. Ahmed
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mussarat N. Rahim
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Ney
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Loren Smith
- John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Emma L. Culver
- John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Wang N, Cao T, Han F, Xie Y, Zhong X, Ma S, Kwan A, Fan Z, Han H, Bi X, Noureddin M, Deshpande V, Christodoulou AG, Li D. Free-breathing multitasking multi-echo MRI for whole-liver water-specific T 1 , proton density fat fraction, and R2∗ quantification. Magn Reson Med 2022; 87:120-137. [PMID: 34418152 PMCID: PMC8616772 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.28970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a 3D multitasking multi-echo (MT-ME) technique for the comprehensive characterization of liver tissues with 5-min free-breathing acquisition; whole-liver coverage; a spatial resolution of 1.5 × 1.5 × 6 mm3 ; and simultaneous quantification of T1 , water-specific T1 (T1w ), proton density fat fraction (PDFF), and R2∗ . METHODS Six-echo bipolar spoiled gradient echo readouts following inversion recovery preparation was performed to generate T1 , water/fat, and R2∗ contrast. MR multitasking was used to reconstruct the MT-ME images with 3 spatial dimensions: 1 T1 recovery dimension, 1 multi-echo dimension, and 1 respiratory dimension. A basis function-based approach was developed for T1w quantification, followed by the estimation of R2∗ and T1 -corrected PDFF. The intrasession repeatability and agreement against references of MT-ME measurements were tested on a phantom and 15 clinically healthy subjects. In addition, 4 patients with confirmed liver diseases were recruited, and the agreement between MT-ME measurements and references was assessed. RESULTS MT-ME produced high-quality, coregistered T1 , T1w , PDFF, and R2∗ maps with good intrasession repeatability and substantial agreement with references on phantom and human studies. The intra-class coefficients of T1 , T1w , PDFF, and R2∗ from the repeat MT-ME measurements on clinically healthy subjects were 0.989, 0.990, 0.999, and 0.988, respectively. The intra-class coefficients of T1 , PDFF, and R2∗ between the MT-ME and reference measurements were 0.924, 0.987, and 0.975 in healthy subjects and 0.980, 0.999, and 0.998 in patients. The T1w was independent to PDFF (R = -0.029, P = .904). CONCLUSION The proposed MT-ME technique quantifies T1 , T1w , PDFF, and R2∗ simultaneously and is clinically promising for the comprehensive characterization of liver tissue properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tianle Cao
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Fei Han
- MR Research and Development, Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yibin Xie
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xiaodong Zhong
- MR Research and Development, Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sen Ma
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alan Kwan
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Departments of Imaging and Cardiology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Zhaoyang Fan
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Department of Radiology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hui Han
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoming Bi
- MR Research and Development, Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mazen Noureddin
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vibhas Deshpande
- MR Research and Development, Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc., Austin, TX, USA
| | - Anthony G. Christodoulou
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Debiao Li
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Corresponding Author Contact Information: Debiao Li, Ph.D., Director, Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Blvd, PACT 400, Los Angeles, California, USA 90048, Phone: 310-423-7743,
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A phase 2, proof of concept, randomised controlled trial of berberine ursodeoxycholate in patients with presumed non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and type 2 diabetes. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5503. [PMID: 34535644 PMCID: PMC8448729 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25701-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis is frequently associated with diabetes and may cause progressive liver disease. Current treatment options are limited. Here we report on a prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of two doses of HTD1801 (berberine ursodeoxycholate, an ionic salt of berberine and ursodeoxycholic acid), versus placebo that was conducted in 100 subjects with fatty liver disease and diabetes (NCT03656744). Treatment was for 18 weeks with a primary endpoint of reduction in liver fat content measured by magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction. Key secondary endpoints included improvement in glycemic control, liver-associated enzymes and safety. The pre-specified primary endpoint was met. Thus, subjects receiving 1000 mg twice a day of berberine ursodeoxycholate had significantly greater reduction in liver fat content than in placebo recipients (mean absolute decrease −4.8% vs. −2.0% (p = 0.011). Compared to placebo, subjects receiving this dose also experienced significant improvement in glycemic control as well as reductions in liver-associated enzymes and significant weight loss. Diarrhea and abdominal discomfort were the most frequently reported adverse events. We conclude that berberine ursodeoxycholate has a broad spectrum of metabolic activity in patients with presumed NASH and diabetes. It is relatively well tolerated and merits further development as a treatment for NASH with diabetes. Berberine ursodeoxycholate has been studied for its serum lipid and lipoprotein lowering effects. Here the authors report an 18-week phase 2, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial that tested the effect of berberine ursodeoxycholate in patients with fatty liver disease and diabetes, and showed that the group taking the higher dose of the drug had reduced liver fat content.
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Galectins in Cancer and the Microenvironment: Functional Roles, Therapeutic Developments, and Perspectives. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091159. [PMID: 34572346 PMCID: PMC8465754 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in cell growth and metabolism are affected by the surrounding environmental factors to adapt to the cell’s most appropriate growth model. However, abnormal cell metabolism is correlated with the occurrence of many diseases and is accompanied by changes in galectin (Gal) performance. Gals were found to be some of the master regulators of cell–cell interactions that reconstruct the microenvironment, and disordered expression of Gals is associated with multiple human metabolic-related diseases including cancer development. Cancer cells can interact with surrounding cells through Gals to create more suitable conditions that promote cancer cell aggressiveness. In this review, we organize the current understanding of Gals in a systematic way to dissect Gals’ effect on human disease, including how Gals’ dysregulated expression affects the tumor microenvironment’s metabolism and elucidating the mechanisms involved in Gal-mediated diseases. This information may shed light on a more precise understanding of how Gals regulate cell biology and facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment by targeting the Gal family.
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Current and Emerging Approaches for Hepatic Fibrosis Treatment. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2021; 2021:6612892. [PMID: 34326871 PMCID: PMC8310447 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6612892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis resulting from chronic liver injury is a key factor to develop liver cirrhosis and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) which are major health burden worldwide. Therefore, it is necessary for antifibrotic therapies to prevent chronic liver disease progression and HCC development. There has been tremendous progress in understanding the mechanisms of liver fibrosis in the last decade, which has created new opportunities for the treatment of this condition. In this review, we aim to make an overview on information of different potential therapies (drug treatment, cell therapy, and liver transplantation) for the liver fibrosis and hope to provide the therapeutic options available for the treatment of liver fibrosis and discuss novel approaches.
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Arndtz K, Shumbayawonda E, Hodson J, Eddowes PJ, Dennis A, Thomaides-Brears H, Mouchti S, Kelly MD, Banerjee R, Neubauer S, Hirschfield GM. Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Autoimmune Hepatitis, and Prediction of Disease Activity. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:1009-1020. [PMID: 34141986 PMCID: PMC8183180 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Noninvasive monitoring of disease activity in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) has potential advantages for patients for whom liver biopsy is invasive and with risk. We sought to understand the association of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) with clinical course of patients with AIH. We prospectively recruited 62 patients (median age, 55 years; 82% women) with clinically confirmed AIH. At recruitment, patients underwent mpMRI with LiverMultiScan alongside clinical investigations, which were repeated after 12-18 months. Associations between iron-corrected T1 (cT1) and other markers of disease were investigated at baseline and at follow-up. Discriminative performance of cT1, liver stiffness, and enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) to identify those who failed to maintain remission over follow-up was investigated using the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs). Baseline cT1 correlated with alanine aminotransferase (Spearman's correlation coefficient [r S] = 0.28, P = 0.028), aspartate aminotransferase (r S = 0.26, P = 0.038), international normalized ratio (r S = 0.35 P = 0.005), Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (r S = 0.32, P = 0.020), ELF (r S = 0.29, P = 0.022), and liver stiffness r S = 0.51, P < 0.001). After excluding those not in remission at baseline (n = 12), 32% of the remainder failed to maintain remission during follow-up. Failure to maintain remission was associated with significant increases in cT1 over follow-up (AUC, 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.52-0.90; P = 0.035) but not with changes in liver stiffness (AUC, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.49-0.87; P = 0.067) or ELF (AUC, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.37-0.78; P = 0.502). cT1 measured at baseline was a significant predictor of future loss of biochemical remission (AUC, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.53-0.83; P = 0.042); neither liver stiffness (AUC, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.34-0.71; P = 0.749) nor ELF (AUC, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.33-0.70; P = 0.843) were significant predictors of loss of biochemical remission. Conclusion: Noninvasive mpMRI has potential to contribute to risk stratification in patients with AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Arndtz
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal ResearchNational Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research CentreBirminghamUnited Kingdom.,University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service (NHS) Foundation TrustBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | | | - James Hodson
- University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service (NHS) Foundation TrustBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Peter J Eddowes
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal ResearchNational Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research CentreBirminghamUnited Kingdom.,NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research CentreNottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of NottinghamNottinghamUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gideon M Hirschfield
- Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal ResearchNational Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research CentreBirminghamUnited Kingdom.,Toronto Centre for Liver DiseaseUniversity Health NetworkTorontoONCanada
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24
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Jayaswal ANA, Levick C, Collier J, Tunnicliffe EM, Kelly MD, Neubauer S, Barnes E, Pavlides M. Liver cT 1 decreases following direct-acting antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2021; 46:1947-1957. [PMID: 33247768 PMCID: PMC8131342 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-020-02860-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Direct-acting antiviral therapies (DAAs) for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) have excellent rates of viral eradication, but their effect on regression of liver fibrosis is unclear. The primary aim was to use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) to evaluate changes in liver fibrosis, liver fat and liver iron content (LIC) in patients with chronic HCV following treatment with DAAs. METHODS In this prospective study, 15 patients with chronic HCV due to start treatment with DAAs and with transient elastography (TE) > 8 kPa were recruited consecutively. Patients underwent MRI and MRS at baseline (before treatment), and at 24 weeks and 48 weeks after the end of treatment (EoT) for the measurement of liver cT1 (fibroinflammation), liver fat and T2* (LIC). RESULTS All patients achieved a sustained virological response. Liver cT1 showed significant decreases from baseline to 24 weeks post EoT (876 vs 806 ms, p = 0.002, n = 15), baseline to 48 weeks post EoT (876 vs 788 ms, p = 0.0002, n = 13) and 24 weeks post EoT to 48 weeks post EoT (806 vs 788 ms, p = 0.016, n = 13). Between baseline and 48 weeks EoT significant reduction in liver fat (5.17% vs 2.65%, p = 0.027) and an increase in reported LIC (0.913 vs 0.950 mg/g, p = 0.021) was observed. CONCLUSION Liver cT1 decreases in patients with chronic HCV undergoing successful DAA treatment. The relatively fast reduction in cT1 suggests a reduction in inflammation rather than regression of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun N A Jayaswal
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christina Levick
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jane Collier
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Elizabeth M Tunnicliffe
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Stefan Neubauer
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Eleanor Barnes
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Michael Pavlides
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK.
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25
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Fallowfield JA, Jimenez-Ramos M, Robertson A. Emerging synthetic drugs for the treatment of liver cirrhosis. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2021; 26:149-163. [PMID: 33856246 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2021.1918099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The number of deaths and prevalent cases of cirrhosis are increasing worldwide, but there are no licensed antifibrotic or pro-regenerative medicines and liver transplantation is a limited resource. Cirrhosis is characterized by extreme liver fibrosis, organ dysfunction, and complications related to portal hypertension. Advances in our understanding of liver fibrosis progression and regression following successful etiological therapy betray vulnerabilities in common and disease-specific mechanisms that could be targeted pharmacologically.Area covered: This review summarizes the cellular and molecular pathogenesis of cirrhosis as a preface to discussion of the current drug development landscape. The dominant indication for global pharma R&D pipelines is cirrhosis related to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We searched Clinicaltrials.gov, GlobalData, Pharmaprojects and PubMed for pertinent information on emerging synthetic drugs for cirrhosis, with a focus on compounds listed in phase 2 and phase 3 trials.Expert opinion: Although cirrhosis can regress following successful etiological treatment, there are no specific antifibrotic or pro-regenerative drugs approved for this condition. Obstacles to drug development in cirrhosis include intrinsic biological factors, a heterogeneous patient population, and lack of acceptable surrogate endpoints. Nevertheless, several synthetic drugs are being evaluated in clinical trials and the NASH field is rapidly embracing a drug combination approach.
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26
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Hokkanen A, Hämäläinen H, Laitinen TM, Laitinen TP. Test-Retest Reliability of the Assessment of Fatty Liver Disease Using Low-Dose Computed Tomography in Cardiac Patients. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:656658. [PMID: 33937292 PMCID: PMC8081885 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.656658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common disorder that is associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, its prevalence is high in patients with coronary artery disease. In myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans are used for attenuation correction in separate stress and rest studies. Here, the test–retest reliability of CT-based quantification of NAFLD was evaluated using these two CT scans. The study population consisted of 261 patients (156 men and 105 women, age 66 ± 10 years). Quantification of liver fat content was based on the radiodensity of the liver in Hounsfield units as well as in relation to corresponding values of the spleen. NAFLD was observed in 47 subjects (18%). CT quantification has good test–retest reliability in assessing NAFLD, with concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) ranging from 0.512 to 0.923, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ranging from 0.513 to 0.923, and coefficient of variation ranging from 3.1 to 7.0%. Regarding the liver to spleen ratio, CCC for non-NAFLD patients and NAFLD patients was 0.552 and 0.911, respectively. For non-NAFLD patients ICC was 0.553 and NAFLD patients it was 0.913. The coefficient of variation for non-NAFLD and NAFLD patients was 4.9% and 3.1%, respectively. Our results suggest that low-dose CT is a feasible and well repeatable method but amount of liver fat contributes to repeatability. In NAFLD patients CCC and ICC were high reflecting excellent reliability, whereas in non-NAFLD patients test-retest reliability was moderate. Assessment of liver fat content can be used as additional information in studies where a CT scan has been done for other medical reasons, such as for low-dose attenuation correction CT along with MPI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti Hokkanen
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Hanna Hämäläinen
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tiina M Laitinen
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tomi P Laitinen
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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27
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Rupcic Rubin V, Bojanic K, Smolic M, Rubin J, Tabll A, Smolic R. An Update on Efficacy and Safety of Emerging Hepatic Antifibrotic Agents. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2021. [PMID: 33604256 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2020.00040.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis represents a response to chronic liver injury. Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis are the most common chronic liver diseases, both with increasing incidence. Therefore, there is a great impetus for development of agents targeting these conditions. Accumulating data on possible treatment options for liver fibrosis are emerging in the literature. However, despite extensive research and much effort in the field, approved agents for liver fibrosis are still lacking. In this critical review, we have summarized the main data about specific treatment options for liver fibrosis gained from ongoing clinical trials, with an emphasis on efficacy and safety of these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinka Rupcic Rubin
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Osijek University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Kristina Bojanic
- Department of Biophysics and Radiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia.,Department of Biophysics and Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia.,Department of Radiology, Health Center Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Martina Smolic
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Jurica Rubin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, University Hospital Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ashraf Tabll
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, Egypt.,Department of immunology, Egypt Center for Research and Regenerative
| | - Robert Smolic
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, University Hospital Osijek, Osijek, Croatia.,Department of Pathophysiology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia.,Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
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28
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Rupcic Rubin V, Bojanic K, Smolic M, Rubin J, Tabll A, Smolic R. An Update on Efficacy and Safety of Emerging Hepatic Antifibrotic Agents. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2021; 9:60-70. [PMID: 33604256 PMCID: PMC7868700 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2020.00040] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis represents a response to chronic liver injury. Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis are the most common chronic liver diseases, both with increasing incidence. Therefore, there is a great impetus for development of agents targeting these conditions. Accumulating data on possible treatment options for liver fibrosis are emerging in the literature. However, despite extensive research and much effort in the field, approved agents for liver fibrosis are still lacking. In this critical review, we have summarized the main data about specific treatment options for liver fibrosis gained from ongoing clinical trials, with an emphasis on efficacy and safety of these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinka Rupcic Rubin
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Osijek University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Kristina Bojanic
- Department of Biophysics and Radiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Biophysics and Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Radiology, Health Center Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Martina Smolic
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Jurica Rubin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, University Hospital Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ashraf Tabll
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, Egypt
- Department of immunology, Egypt Center for Research and Regenerative
| | - Robert Smolic
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, University Hospital Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine Osijek, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- Correspondence to: Robert Smolic, J. J. Strossmayer University of Osijek Faculty of Medicine Osijek, Department of Pathophysiology J. Huttlera 4, Osijek 31000, Croatia. Tel: +385-31-512-800, Fax: +385-31-512-833, E-mail:
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29
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Imajo K, Tetlow L, Dennis A, Shumbayawonda E, Mouchti S, Kendall TJ, Fryer E, Yamanaka S, Honda Y, Kessoku T, Ogawa Y, Yoneda M, Saito S, Kelly C, Kelly MD, Banerjee R, Nakajima A. Quantitative multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging can aid non-alcoholic steatohepatitis diagnosis in a Japanese cohort. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:609-623. [PMID: 33642832 PMCID: PMC7901049 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i7.609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-invasive assessment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is increasing in desirability due to the invasive nature and costs associated with the current form of assessment; liver biopsy. Quantitative multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) to measure liver fat (proton density fat fraction) and fibroinflammatory disease [iron-corrected T1 (cT1)], as well as elastography techniques [vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) liver stiffness measure], magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) and 2D Shear-Wave elastography (SWE) to measure stiffness and fat (controlled attenuated parameter, CAP) are emerging alternatives which could be utilised as safe surrogates to liver biopsy.
AIM To evaluate the agreement of non-invasive imaging modalities with liver biopsy, and their subsequent diagnostic accuracy for identifying NASH patients.
METHODS From January 2019 to February 2020, Japanese patients suspected of NASH were recruited onto a prospective, observational study and were screened using non-invasive imaging techniques; mpMRI with LiverMultiScan®, VCTE, MRE and 2D-SWE. Patients were subsequently biopsied, and samples were scored by three independent pathologists. The diagnostic performances of the non-invasive imaging modalities were assessed using area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) with the median of the histology scores as the gold standard diagnoses. Concordance between all three independent pathologists was further explored using Krippendorff’s alpha (a) from weighted kappa statistics.
RESULTS N = 145 patients with mean age of 60 (SD: 13 years.), 39% females, and 40% with body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2 were included in the analysis. For identifying patients with NASH, MR liver fat and cT1 were the strongest performing individual measures (AUC: 0.80 and 0.75 respectively), and the mpMRI metrics combined (cT1 and MR liver fat) were the overall best non-invasive test (AUC: 0.83). For identifying fibrosis ≥ 1, MRE performed best (AUC: 0.97), compared to VCTE-liver stiffness measure (AUC: 0.94) and 2D-SWE (AUC: 0.94). For assessment of steatosis ≥ 1, MR liver fat was the best performing non-invasive test (AUC: 0.92), compared to controlled attenuated parameter (AUC: 0.75). Assessment of the agreement between pathologists showed that concordance was best for steatosis (a = 0.58), moderate for ballooning (a = 0.40) and fibrosis (a = 0.40), and worst for lobular inflammation (a = 0.11).
CONCLUSION Quantitative mpMRI is an effective alternative to liver biopsy for diagnosing NASH and non-alcoholic fatty liver, and thus may offer clinical utility in patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kento Imajo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Louise Tetlow
- Innovation, Perspectum, Oxford OX4 2LL, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Dennis
- Innovation, Perspectum, Oxford OX4 2LL, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sofia Mouchti
- Innovation, Perspectum, Oxford OX4 2LL, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy J Kendall
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Eve Fryer
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Shogi Yamanaka
- Anatomic and Clinical Pathology Department, Yokohoma City University Hospital, Yokohoma 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yasushi Honda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Takaomi Kessoku
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yuji Ogawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Masato Yoneda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Satoru Saito
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | | | - Matt D Kelly
- Innovation, Perspectum, Oxford OX4 2LL, United Kingdom
| | | | - Atsushi Nakajima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
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30
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Sepulveda-Crespo D, Resino S, Martinez I. Strategies Targeting the Innate Immune Response for the Treatment of Hepatitis C Virus-Associated Liver Fibrosis. Drugs 2021; 81:419-443. [PMID: 33400242 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-020-01458-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Direct-acting antivirals eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) in more than 95% of treated individuals and may abolish liver injury, arrest fibrogenesis, and reverse fibrosis and cirrhosis. However, liver regeneration is usually a slow process that is less effective in the late stages of fibrosis. What is more, fibrogenesis may prevail in patients with advanced cirrhosis, where it can progress to liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, the development of antifibrotic drugs that halt and reverse fibrosis progression is urgently needed. Fibrosis occurs due to the repair process of damaged hepatic tissue, which eventually leads to scarring. The innate immune response against HCV is essential in the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis. HCV-infected hepatocytes and liver macrophages secrete proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines that promote the activation and differentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to myofibroblasts that produce extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Prolonged ECM production by myofibroblasts due to chronic inflammation is essential to the development of fibrosis. While no antifibrotic therapy is approved to date, several drugs are being tested in phase 2 and phase 3 trials with promising results. This review discusses current state-of-the-art knowledge on treatments targeting the innate immune system to revert chronic hepatitis C-associated liver fibrosis. Agents that cause liver damage may vary (alcohol, virus infection, etc.), but fibrosis progression shows common patterns among them, including chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation, hepatocyte injury, HSC activation, and excessive ECM deposition. Therefore, mechanisms underlying these processes are promising targets for general antifibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sepulveda-Crespo
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (Campus Majadahonda), Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km 2.2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Salvador Resino
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (Campus Majadahonda), Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km 2.2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Isidoro Martinez
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (Campus Majadahonda), Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km 2.2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
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31
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Heyens LJM, Busschots D, Koek GH, Robaeys G, Francque S. Liver Fibrosis in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: From Liver Biopsy to Non-invasive Biomarkers in Diagnosis and Treatment. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:615978. [PMID: 33937277 PMCID: PMC8079659 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.615978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing percentage of people have or are at risk to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) worldwide. NAFLD comprises different stadia going from isolated steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH is a chronic state of liver inflammation that leads to the transformation of hepatic stellate cells to myofibroblasts. These cells produce extra-cellular matrix that results in liver fibrosis. In a normal situation, fibrogenesis is a wound healing process that preserves tissue integrity. However, sustained and progressive fibrosis can become pathogenic. This process takes many years and is often asymptomatic. Therefore, patients usually present themselves with end-stage liver disease e.g., liver cirrhosis, decompensated liver disease or even hepatocellular carcinoma. Fibrosis has also been identified as the most important predictor of prognosis in patients with NAFLD. Currently, only a minority of patients with liver fibrosis are identified to be at risk and hence referred for treatment. This is not only because the disease is largely asymptomatic, but also due to the fact that currently liver biopsy is still the golden standard for accurate detection of liver fibrosis. However, performing a liver biopsy harbors some risks and requires resources and expertise, hence is not applicable in every clinical setting and is unsuitable for screening. Consequently, different non-invasive diagnostic tools, mainly based on analysis of blood or other specimens or based on imaging have been developed or are in development. In this review, we will first give an overview of the pathogenic mechanisms of the evolution from isolated steatosis to fibrosis. This serves as the basis for the subsequent discussion of the current and future diagnostic biomarkers and anti-fibrotic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leen J. M. Heyens
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, NUTRIM, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Gastro-Enterology and Hepatology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
| | - Dana Busschots
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, NUTRIM, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Ger H. Koek
- School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, NUTRIM, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Geert Robaeys
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department of Gastro-Enterology and Hepatology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sven Francque
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Sven Francque
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32
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Multiparametric MRI as a Noninvasive Monitoring Tool for Children With Autoimmune Hepatitis. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2021; 72:108-114. [PMID: 32925554 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000002930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a progressive liver disease managed with corticosteroids and immunosuppression and monitored using a combination of liver biochemistry and histology. However, liver biopsy is invasive with risk of pain and bleeding. The aim of the present study was to investigate the utility of noninvasive imaging with multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (mpMRI) to provide clinically useful information on the presence and extent of hepatic inflammation, potentially guiding immunosuppression. METHODS Eighty-one participants (aged 6-18), 21 healthy and 60 AIH patients, underwent multiparametric MRI to measure fibro-inflammation with iron-corrected T1 (cT1) at the Children's Memorial Health Institute in Warsaw alongside other clinical blood tests and liver biopsy at recruitment and after an average of 16-month follow-up (range 9-22 months). Correlation analyses were used to investigate the associations between cT1 with blood serum markers and histological scores. RESULTS At recruitment, patients with AIH had a higher cT1 value than healthy controls (P < 0.01). cT1 correlated significantly with key histopathological features of disease. Treatment naïve AIH patients showed evidence of inflammation and heterogeneity across the liver compared to healthy controls.At follow-up, cT1 showed utility in monitoring disease regression as most patients showed significantly reduced fibro-inflammation with treatment (P < 0.0001) over the observational period. Six patients had histological fibrosis and clear fibro-inflammation on MR despite biochemical remission (normalized aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and immunoglobulin G [IgG]). CONCLUSIONS Multiparametric MRI can measure disease burden in pediatric AIH and can show changes over time in response to therapy. Active disease can be seen even in biochemical remission in children.
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Jayaswal ANA, Levick C, Selvaraj EA, Dennis A, Booth JC, Collier J, Cobbold J, Tunnicliffe EM, Kelly M, Barnes E, Neubauer S, Banerjee R, Pavlides M. Prognostic value of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging, transient elastography and blood-based fibrosis markers in patients with chronic liver disease. Liver Int 2020; 40:3071-3082. [PMID: 32730664 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Liver cT1 , liver T1 , transient elastography (TE) and blood-based biomarkers have independently been shown to predict clinical outcomes but have not been directly compared in a single cohort of patients. Our aim was to compare these tests' prognostic value in a cohort of patients with compensated chronic liver disease. METHODS Patients with unselected compensated liver disease aetiologies had baseline assessments and were followed up for development of clinical outcomes, blinded to the imaging results. The prognostic value of non-invasive liver tests at prespecified thresholds was assessed for a combined clinical endpoint comprising ascites, variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver transplantation and mortality. RESULTS One hundred and ninety-seven patients (61% male) with median age of 54 years were followed up for 693 patient-years (median (IQR) 43 (26-58) months). The main diagnoses were NAFLD (41%), viral hepatitis (VH, 25%) and alcohol-related liver disease (ArLD; 14%). During follow-up 14 new clinical events, and 11 deaths occurred. Clinical outcomes were predicted by liver cT1 > 825ms with HR 9.9 (95% CI: 1.29-76.4, P = .007), TE > 8kPa with HR 7.8 (95% CI: 0.97-62.3, P = .02) and FIB-4 > 1.45 with HR 4.09 (95% CI: 0.90-18.4, P = .05). In analysis taking into account technical failure and unreliability, liver cT1 > 825 ms could predict clinical outcomes (P = .03), but TE > 8kPa could not (P = .4). CONCLUSIONS We provide further evidence that liver cT1 , TE and serum-based biomarkers can predict clinical outcomes, but when taking into account technical failure/unreliability, TE cut-offs perform worse than those of cT1 and blood biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun N A Jayaswal
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christina Levick
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Emmanuel A Selvaraj
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Jane Collier
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jeremy Cobbold
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Elizabeth M Tunnicliffe
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Eleanor Barnes
- Peter Medawar Building, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stefan Neubauer
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Michael Pavlides
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
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Li Y, Jin C, Shen M, Wang Z, Tan S, Chen A, Wang S, Shao J, Zhang F, Zhang Z, Zheng S. Iron regulatory protein 2 is required for artemether -mediated anti-hepatic fibrosis through ferroptosis pathway. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 160:845-859. [PMID: 32947011 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, the existing treatments have not cured the liver fibrosis thoroughly. Ferroptosis is a newly discovered way of cell death, which is closely related to many diseases. Previous studies have shown that ferroptosis plays an important role in the occurrence and development of liver fibrosis, but the further mechanism remains to be discovered. METHODS LX-2 cells were used as the research object, fibrosis activation index was detected by Western blot, PCR and Immunofluorescence, ferroptosis was detected by kits, the binding and interaction between IRP2 (iron regulatory protein 2) and STUB1 (STIP1 homology and U-box containing protein 1) were detected by Immunoprecipitation and ubiquitin test, and IRP2 knockdown mice were constructed by interfering plasmid to verify the results of in vitro experiment. RESULT Our research showed that ART (artemether) had a good anti-fibrosis effect in vivo and in vitro, and ferroptosis played an important role in this process. Further studies have found that ART could lead to the accumulation of IRP 2 a in hepatic stellate cell by inhibiting the ubiquitination of it, thus inducing the increase of iron in HSC (hepatic stellate cell), which could product a large number of ROS (reactive oxide species), resulting the occurrence of ferroptosis in cells. Our findings provided an experimental basis for ART to become a drug for the treatment of liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION Our results show that IRP2-Iron-ROS axis is necessary for ART to induce ferroptosis in HSC and play an anti-fibrotic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun Jin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenyi Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shanzhong Tan
- Department of Integrated TCM and Western Medicine, Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Anping Chen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St Louis, USA
| | - Shijun Wang
- Shandong Co-innovation Center of TCM Formula, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jiangjuan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zili Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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The therapeutic potential of galectin-3 inhibition in fibrotic disease. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2020; 130:105881. [PMID: 33181315 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2020.105881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Galectin-3 is a beta-galactoside-binding mammalian lectin and part of the 15 member galectin family that are evolutionarily highly conserved. It is the only chimeric protein with a C-terminal carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) linked to a proline, glycine, and tyrosine rich additional N-terminal domain. Galectin-3 binds several cell surface glycoproteins via its CRD domain as well as undergoing oligomerization, via binding at the N-terminal or the CRD, resulting in the formation of a galectin-3 lattice on the cell surface. The galectin-3 lattice has been regarded as being a crucial mechanism whereby extracellular galectin-3 modulates cellular signalling by prolonging retention time or retarding lateral movement of cell surface receptors in the plasma membrane. As such galectin-3 can regulate various cellular functions such as diffusion, compartmentalization and endocytosis of plasma membrane glycoproteins and glycolipids and the functionality of membrane receptors. In multiple models of organ fibrosis, it has been demonstrated that galectin-3 is potently pro-fibrotic and modulates the activity of fibroblasts and macrophages in chronically inflamed organs. Increased galectin-3 expression also activates myofibroblasts resulting in scar formation and may therefore impact common fibrotic pathways leading to fibrosis in multiple organs. Over the last decade there has been a marked increase in the scientific literature investigating galectin-3 in a range of fibrotic diseases as well as the clinical development of new galectin-3 inhibitors. In this review we will examine the role of galectin-3 in fibrosis, the therapeutic strategies for inhibiting galectin-3 in fibrotic disease and the clinical landscape to date.
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MR elastography of liver: current status and future perspectives. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2020; 45:3444-3462. [PMID: 32705312 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-020-02656-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Non-invasive evaluation of liver fibrosis has evolved over the last couple of decades. Currently, elastography techniques are the most widely used non-invasive methods for clinical evaluation of chronic liver disease (CLD). MR elastography (MRE) of the liver has been used in the clinical practice for nearly a decade and continues to be widely accepted for detection and staging of liver fibrosis. With MRE, one can directly visualize propagating shear waves through the liver and an inversion algorithm in the scanner automatically converts the shear wave properties into an elastogram (stiffness map) on which liver stiffness can be calculated. The commonly used MRE method, two-dimensional gradient recalled echo (2D-GRE) sequence has produced excellent results in the evaluation of liver fibrosis in CLD from various etiologies and newer clinical indications continue to emerge. Advances in MRE technique, including 3D MRE, automated liver elasticity calculation, improvements in shear wave delivery and patient experience, are promising to provide a faster and more reliable MRE of liver. Innovations, including evaluation of mechanical parameters, such as loss modulus, displacement, and volumetric strain, are promising for comprehensive evaluation of CLD as well as understanding pathophysiology, and in differentiating various etiologies of CLD. In this review, the current status of the MRE of liver in CLD are outlined and followed by a brief description of advanced techniques and innovations in MRE of liver.
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Thomaides-Brears HB, Lepe R, Banerjee R, Duncker C. Multiparametric MR mapping in clinical decision-making for diffuse liver disease. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2020; 45:3507-3522. [PMID: 32761254 PMCID: PMC7593302 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-020-02684-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Accurate diagnosis, monitoring and treatment decisions in patients with chronic liver disease currently rely on biopsy as the diagnostic gold standard, and this has constrained early detection and management of diseases that are both varied and can be concurrent. Recent developments in multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) suggest real potential to bridge the diagnostic gap between non-specific blood-based biomarkers and invasive and variable histological diagnosis. This has implications for the clinical care and treatment pathway in a number of chronic liver diseases, such as haemochromatosis, steatohepatitis and autoimmune or viral hepatitis. Here we review the relevant MRI techniques in clinical use and their limitations and describe recent potential applications in various liver diseases. We exemplify case studies that highlight how these techniques can improve clinical practice. These techniques could allow clinicians to increase their arsenals available to utilise on patients and direct appropriate treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rita Lepe
- Texas Liver Institute, 607 Camden St, Suite 101, San Antonio, TX, 78215, USA
| | | | - Carlos Duncker
- Perspectum, 600 N. Pearl St. Suite 1960, Plaza of The Americas, Dallas, TX, 75201, USA
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Imajo K, Honda Y, Yoneda M, Saito S, Nakajima A. Magnetic resonance imaging for the assessment of pathological hepatic findings in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. J Med Ultrason (2001) 2020; 47:535-548. [PMID: 33108553 DOI: 10.1007/s10396-020-01059-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is expected to increase because of the current epidemics of obesity and diabetes, and NAFLD has become a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Liver fibrosis is associated with poor long-term outcomes in patients with NAFLD. Additionally, increased mortality and liver-related complications are primarily seen in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH); however, nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is believed to be benign and non-progressive. Therefore, distinguishing between NASH and NAFL is clinically important. Liver biopsy is the gold standard method for the staging of liver fibrosis and distinguishing between NASH and NAFL. Unfortunately, liver biopsy is an invasive and expensive procedure. Therefore, noninvasive methods, to replace biopsy, are urgently needed for the staging of liver fibrosis and diagnosing NASH. In this review, we discuss the recent studies on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including magnetic resonance elastography, proton density fat fraction measurement, and multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) that can be used in the assessment of NASH components such as liver fibrosis, steatosis, and liver injury including inflammation and ballooning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kento Imajo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yasushi Honda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Masato Yoneda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Satoru Saito
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nakajima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan.
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Tonev D, Shumbayawonda E, Tetlow LA, Herdman L, French M, Rymell S, Thomaides-Brears H, Caseiro-Alves F, Castelo-Branco M, Ferreira C, Coenraad M, Lamb H, Beer M, Kelly M, Banerjee R, Dollinger M. The Effect of Multi-Parametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Standard of Care for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Protocol for a Randomized Control Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e19189. [PMID: 33104014 PMCID: PMC7652684 DOI: 10.2196/19189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rising prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the more aggressive subtype, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is a global public health concern. Left untreated, NAFLD/NASH can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and death. The current standard for diagnosing and staging liver disease is a liver biopsy, which is costly, invasive, and carries risk for the patient. Therefore, there is a growing need for a reliable, feasible, and cost-effective, noninvasive diagnostic tool for these conditions. LiverMultiScan is one such promising tool that uses multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) to characterize liver tissue and to aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver diseases of various etiologies. OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this trial (RADIcAL1) is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the introduction of LiverMultiScan as a standardized diagnostic test for liver disease in comparison to standard care for NAFLD, in different EU territories. METHODS RADIcAL1 is a multi-center randomized control trial with 2 arms conducted in 4 European territories (13 sites, from across Germany, Netherlands, Portugal, and the United Kingdom). In total, 1072 adult patients with suspected fatty liver disease will be randomized to be treated according to the result of the mpMRI in the intervention arm, so that further diagnostic evaluation is recommended only when values for metrics of liver fat or fibro-inflammation are elevated. Patients in the control arm will be treated as per center guidelines for standard of care. The primary outcome for this trial is to compare the difference in the proportion of patients with suspected NAFLD incurring liver-related hospital consultations or liver biopsies between the study arms, from the date of randomization to the end of the study follow-up. Secondary outcomes include patient feedback from a patient satisfaction questionnaire, at baseline and all follow-up visits to the end of the study, and time, from randomization to diagnosis by the physician, as recorded at the final follow-up visit. RESULTS This trial is currently open for recruitment. The anticipated completion date for the study is December 2020. CONCLUSIONS This randomized controlled trial will provide the evidence to accelerate decision making regarding the inclusion of mpMRI-based tools in existing NAFLD/NASH clinical care. RADIcAL1 is among the first and largest European health economic studies of imaging technologies for fatty liver disease. Strengths of the trial include a high-quality research design and an in-depth assessment of the implementation of the cost-effectiveness of the mpMRI diagnostic. If effective, the trial may highlight the health economic burden on tertiary-referral hepatology clinics imposed by unnecessary consultations and invasive diagnostic investigations, and demonstrate that including LiverMultiScan as a NAFLD diagnostic test may be cost-effective compared to liver-related hospital consultations or liver biopsies. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03289897 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03289897. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/19189.
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Affiliation(s)
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- See Authors' Contributions,
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Caussy C, Johansson L. Magnetic resonance-based biomarkers in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab 2020; 3:e00134. [PMID: 33102797 PMCID: PMC7576227 DOI: 10.1002/edm2.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is a growing epidemic affecting 30% of the adult population in the Western world. Its progressive form, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is associated with an increased risk of advanced fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver-related mortality. Therefore, the detection of NAFLD and risk stratification according to the severity of the disease is crucial for the management of patients with NAFLD. Liver biopsy for such risk stratification strategies is limited by its cost and risks; therefore, noninvasive alternatives have been developed. Among noninvasive biomarkers developed in NAFLD, magnetic resonance (MR)-based biomarkers have emerged as key noninvasive biomarkers in NAFLD with the ability to accurately detect hepatic steatosis and liver fibrosis. The potential utility of MRI for the detection of NASH and functional liver assessment has also recently emerged. In the current review, we will discuss the data supporting the utility of MR-based biomarker for the detection of features of NAFLD and its potential use in clinical practice and clinical research in NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyrielle Caussy
- Univ LyonCarMen LaboratoryINSERMINRAINSA LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1Pierre‐BéniteFrance
- Hospices Civils de LyonDépartement EndocrinologieDiabète et NutritionHôpital Lyon SudPierre‐BéniteFrance
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Polyzos SA, Kang ES, Boutari C, Rhee EJ, Mantzoros CS. Current and emerging pharmacological options for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Metabolism 2020; 111S:154203. [PMID: 32151660 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2020.154203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a highly prevalent disease and important unmet medical need. Current guidelines recommend, under specific restrictions, pioglitazone or vitamin E in patients with NASH and significant fibrosis, but the use of both remains off-label. We summarize evidence on medications for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), since NASH has been mainly associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Some of these medications are currently in phase 3 clinical trials, including obeticholic acid (a farnesoid X receptor agonist), elafibranor (a peroxisome proliferator activated receptor [PPAR]-α/δ dual agonist), cenicriviroc (a CC chemokine receptor antagonist), MSDC-0602 K (a PPAR sparing modulator), selonsertib (an apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1 inhibitor) and resmetirom (a thyroid hormone receptor agonist). A significant research effort is also targeting PPARs and selective PPAR modulators, including INT131 and pemafibrate, with the expectation that novel drugs may have beneficial effects similar to those of pioglitazone, but without the associated adverse effects. Whether these and other medications could offer tangible therapeutic benefits, alone or in combination, apparently on a background of lifestyle modification, i.e. exercise and a healthy dietary pattern (e.g. Mediterranean diet) remain to be proven. In conclusion, major advances are expected for the treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stergios A Polyzos
- First Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece
| | - Eun Seok Kang
- Severance Hospital Diabetes Center, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Chrysoula Boutari
- Second Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Aristotle University, Ippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece
| | - Eun-Jung Rhee
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Section of Endocrinology, Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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A composite biomarker using multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging and blood analytes accurately identifies patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and significant fibrosis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15308. [PMID: 32943694 PMCID: PMC7499258 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71995-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is major health burden lacking effective pharmacological therapies. Clinical trials enrol patients with histologically-defined NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) activity score (NAS) ≥ 4 and Kleiner-Brunt fibrosis stage (F) ≥ 2; however, screen failure rates are often high following biopsy. This study evaluated a non-invasive MRI biomarker, iron-corrected T1 mapping (cT1), as a diagnostic pre-screening biomarker for NASH. In a retrospective analysis of 86 biopsy confirmed NAFLD patients we explored the potential of blood and imaging biomarkers, both in isolation and in combination, to discriminate those who have NAS ≥ 4 and F ≥ 2 from those without. Stepwise logistic regression was performed to select the optimal combination of biomarkers, diagnostic accuracy was determined using area under the receiver operator curve and model validated confirmed with and fivefold cross-validation. Results showed that levels of cT1, AST, GGT and fasting glucose were all good predictors of NAS ≥ 4 and F ≥ 2, and the model identified the combination of cT1-AST-fasting glucose (cTAG) as far superior to any individual biomarker (AUC 0.90 [0.84–0.97]). This highlights the potential utility of the composite cTAG score for screening patients prior to biopsy to identify those suitable for NASH clinical trial enrolment.
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Cruz M, Ferreira AA, Papanikolaou N, Banerjee R, Alves FC. New boundaries of liver imaging: from morphology to function. Eur J Intern Med 2020; 79:12-22. [PMID: 32571581 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2020.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
From an invisible organ to one of the most explored non-invasively, the liver is, today, one of the cornerstones for current cross-sectional imaging techniques and minimally invasive procedures. After the achievements of US, CT and, most recently, MRI in providing highly accurate morphological and structural information about the organ, a significant scientific development has gained momentum for the last decades, coupling morphology to liver function and contributing far most to what we know today as precision medicine. In fact, dedicated tailor-made investigations are now possible in order to detect and, most of all, quantify physiopathological processes with unprecedented certitude. It is the intention of this review to provide a better insight to the reader of several functional imaging techniques applied to liver imaging. Contrast enhanced imaging, diffusion weighted imaging, elastography, spectral computed tomography and fat and iron assessment techniques are commonly performed clinically. Diffusion kurtosis imaging, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, T1 relaxometry and radiomics remain largely limited to advanced clinical research. Each of them has its own value and place on the diagnostic armamentarium and provide unique qualitative and quantitative information regarding the pathophysiology of diseases, contributing at a large scale to model therapeutic decisions and patient follow-up. Therefore, state-of-the-art liver imaging acts today as a non-invasive surrogate biomarker of many focal and diffuse liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Cruz
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Coimbra and CIBIT/ICNAS research center, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Ana Aguiar Ferreira
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Coimbra and CIBIT/ICNAS research center, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nikolaos Papanikolaou
- Computational Clinical Imaging Group, Centre for the Unknown, Champalimaud Foundation, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rajarshi Banerjee
- Department of Acute Medicine, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Filipe Caseiro Alves
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Coimbra and CIBIT/ICNAS research center, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Parisinos CA, Wilman HR, Thomas EL, Kelly M, Nicholls RC, McGonigle J, Neubauer S, Hingorani AD, Patel RS, Hemingway H, Bell JD, Banerjee R, Yaghootkar H. Genome-wide and Mendelian randomisation studies of liver MRI yield insights into the pathogenesis of steatohepatitis. J Hepatol 2020; 73:241-251. [PMID: 32247823 PMCID: PMC7372222 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS MRI-based corrected T1 (cT1) is a non-invasive method to grade the severity of steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis. We aimed to identify genetic variants influencing liver cT1 and use genetics to understand mechanisms underlying liver fibroinflammatory disease and its link with other metabolic traits and diseases. METHODS First, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 14,440 Europeans, with liver cT1 measures, from the UK Biobank. Second, we explored the effects of the cT1 variants on liver blood tests, and a range of metabolic traits and diseases. Third, we used Mendelian randomisation to test the causal effects of 24 predominantly metabolic traits on liver cT1 measures. RESULTS We identified 6 independent genetic variants associated with liver cT1 that reached the GWAS significance threshold (p <5×10-8). Four of the variants (rs759359281 in SLC30A10, rs13107325 in SLC39A8, rs58542926 in TM6SF2, rs738409 in PNPLA3) were also associated with elevated aminotransferases and had variable effects on liver fat and other metabolic traits. Insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver and body mass index were causally associated with elevated cT1, whilst favourable adiposity (instrumented by variants associated with higher adiposity but lower risk of cardiometabolic disease and lower liver fat) was found to be protective. CONCLUSION The association between 2 metal ion transporters and cT1 indicates an important new mechanism in steatohepatitis. Future studies are needed to determine whether interventions targeting the identified transporters might prevent liver disease in at-risk individuals. LAY SUMMARY We estimated levels of liver inflammation and scarring based on magnetic resonance imaging of 14,440 UK Biobank participants. We performed a genetic study and identified variations in 6 genes associated with levels of liver inflammation and scarring. Participants with variations in 4 of these genes also had higher levels of markers of liver cell injury in blood samples, further validating their role in liver health. Two identified genes are involved in the transport of metal ions in our body. Further investigation of these variations may lead to better detection, assessment, and/or treatment of liver inflammation and scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantinos A Parisinos
- Institute of Health Informatics, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Henry R Wilman
- Research Centre for Optimal Health, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK; Perspectum Diagnostics Ltd., Oxford, UK
| | - E Louise Thomas
- Research Centre for Optimal Health, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Neubauer
- Perspectum Diagnostics Ltd., Oxford, UK; Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Aroon D Hingorani
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Riyaz S Patel
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Harry Hemingway
- Health Data Research UK London, Institute of Health Informatics, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jimmy D Bell
- Research Centre for Optimal Health, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | | | - Hanieh Yaghootkar
- Research Centre for Optimal Health, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK; Genetics of Complex Traits, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK; Division of Medical Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden.
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Great Expectations: Can Magnetic Resonance Elastography Accelerate Progress in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Research? Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 18:1436-1438. [PMID: 31863860 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2019.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Trivella JP, Martin P, Carrion AF. Novel targeted therapies for the management of liver fibrosis. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2020; 25:59-70. [PMID: 32098512 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2020.1735350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juan P. Trivella
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Paul Martin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Andres F. Carrion
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Hoffman DH, Ayoola A, Nickel D, Han F, Chandarana H, Shanbhogue KP. T1 mapping, T2 mapping and MR elastography of the liver for detection and staging of liver fibrosis. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2020; 45:692-700. [PMID: 31875241 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-019-02382-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare liver stiffness measurements obtained from MR elastography with liver T1 relaxation times obtained from T1 mapping and T2 relaxation times obtained from T2 mapping for detection and staging of liver fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS 223 patients with known or suspected liver disease underwent MRI of the liver with T1 mapping (Look-Locker sequence) and 2D SE-EPI MR elastography (MRE) sequences. 139 of these patients also underwent T2 mapping with radial T2 TSE sequence. Two readers (R1 & R2) measured liver stiffness, T1 relaxation times and T2 relaxation times. T1 and T2 times were correlated with stiffness measurements. ROC analysis was used to compare the performance of both techniques in discriminating fibrosis stage in 23 patients who underwent liver biopsy. RESULTS For each reader there was significant moderate positive correlation between liver MRE and liver T1 mapping (r = 0.49 and 0.36). There was significant moderate positive correlation between liver T2 mapping and each of MRE and T1 mapping for one of the readers (r = 0.40 and 0.27). AUC for differentiating early (F0-F2) from advanced (F3-F4) fibrosis in biopsied patients was 0.975 (R1) and 0.925 (R2) for MRE, 0.671 (R1) and 0.642 (R2) for T1 mapping and 0.671 (R1) and 0.743 (R2) for T2 mapping. Inter-reader agreement was good for MRE (ICC = 0.84) substantial for T1 mapping (0.94) and T2 mapping (0.96). CONCLUSIONS Liver T1 and T2 mapping showed moderate positive correlation with MR elastography. Accuracy of MRE is however superior to T1 and T2 mapping in the subset of patients who underwent liver biopsy. Accuracy of combination of MRE and T1 mapping/T2 mapping was not superior to MRE alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Hoffman
- Department of Radiology, NYU Langone Health, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Abimbola Ayoola
- Department of Radiology, NYU Langone Health, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | | | - Fei Han
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hersh Chandarana
- Department of Radiology, NYU Langone Health, 660 First Ave, New York, NY, 10016, USA
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Elhence A, Shalimar. Treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease - Current perspectives. Indian J Gastroenterol 2020; 39:22-31. [PMID: 32152902 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-020-01021-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutics aimed at treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) target the pathogenic process from deranged metabolism leading to steatosis to cell stress and death, leading to a cascade of inflammation and fibrosis, ultimately culminating into cirrhosis. The development of drugs for management of NAFLD has bloomed over the past decade, although at present there is no approved pharmacological agent for its management. Not all patients with the disease progress to cirrhosis and decompensation; hence, treatment specifically is provided for those with a high risk of progression such as those with biopsy-proven steatohepatitis or fibrosis. Along with disease-specific management, all patients must receive therapies directed at risk factors such as dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. Comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, sleep apnoea and chronic kidney disease need management. A current perspective on the therapeutic options is detailed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshuman Elhence
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room No 127, 1st Floor, Human Nutrition Unit, New Delhi, 110 029, India
| | - Shalimar
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room No 127, 1st Floor, Human Nutrition Unit, New Delhi, 110 029, India.
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Dennis A, Kelly MD, Fernandes C, Mouchti S, Fallowfield JA, Hirschfield G, Pavlides M, Harrison S, Chakravarthy MV, Banerjee R, Sanyal A. Correlations Between MRI Biomarkers PDFF and cT1 With Histopathological Features of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:575843. [PMID: 33584535 PMCID: PMC7877451 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.575843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Late stage clinical trials in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are currently required by the FDA to use liver biopsy as a primary endpoint. The well-reported limitations with biopsy, such as associated risks and sampling error, coupled with patient preference, are driving investigation into non-invasive alternatives. MRI-derived biomarkers proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and iron-corrected T1 mapping (cT1) are gaining traction as emerging alternatives to biopsy for NASH. Our aim was to explore the correlations between cT1 and PDFF (from LiverMultiScan®), with the histological components on the NAFLD-NASH spectrum in a large cohort of cross-sectional data, in order to calibrate the measurement to histology, and to infer what might constitute a clinically meaningful change when related to the FDA's criteria. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a retrospective analysis of data combined from three previously published observational NASH studies, in which adult participants who underwent liver biopsy on suspicion of NAFLD or NASH and had an MRI scan measuring cT1 and PDFF (LiverMultiScan®, Perspectum Ltd, UK), associations between imaging biomarkers and histology were tested using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (rs), and further exploration of the relationships between the imaging variables and histology were performed using linear regression. RESULTS N = 264 patients with mean age of 54 (SD:9.9), 39% female, and 69% with BMI ≥ 30kg.m-2 were included in the analysis. cT1 and PDFF both correlated with all features of the NAFLD activity score (NAS). cT1 was also positively correlated with Kleiner-Brunt fibrosis. Partial correlations, adjusting for steatosis, revealed cT1 correlated with inflammation and fibrosis, whereas PDFF did not, and both were still associated with the NAS, but correlation was weaker with PDFF than cT1. An estimated difference of 88 ms in cT1, or 21% relative difference in PDFF was related to a two-point difference in overall NAS. CONCLUSION The correlations between cT1 and PDFF with the histopathological hallmarks of NASH demonstrate the potential utility of both cT1 and PDFF as non-invasive biomarkers to detect a pharmacodynamic change in NASH, with cT1 showing superiority for detecting changes in inflammation and fibrosis, rather than liver fat alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Dennis
- Perspectum, Oxford, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Andrea Dennis,
| | | | | | | | | | - Gideon Hirschfield
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Pavlides
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Harrison
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Pinnacle Clinical Research, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | | | | | - Arun Sanyal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
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Lemoinne S, Friedman SL. New and emerging anti-fibrotic therapeutics entering or already in clinical trials in chronic liver diseases. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2019; 49:60-70. [PMID: 31590120 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2019.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases with different etiologies represent a major public health issue worldwide. Liver fibrosis is the common feature of almost all chronic liver diseases and remains a key determinant of clinical prognosis. Over the last two decades, basic science studies have uncovered molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of chronic liver diseases, leading to the recent development of new anti-fibrotic drugs. These new drugs target different steps in the pathophysiology of chronic liver injury: metabolism of glucose, lipids and bile acids, apoptosis, inflammation and fibrosis. Many targets are shared between non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cholestatic diseases, explaining why some drugs have been assessed concurrently in both conditions. This review reports the most recent clinical trials designed to treat liver fibrosis, with a special focus on NASH and cholestatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Lemoinne
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn Medical School at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn Medical School at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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