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Kamal S, Shahzad A, Rehman K, Tariq K, Akash MSH, Imran M, Assiri MA. Therapeutic Intervention of Serine Protease Inhibitors against Hepatitis C Virus. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:2052-2072. [PMID: 37855348 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673234823230921090431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a globally prevalent and hazardous disorder that is responsible for inducing several persistent and potentially fatal liver diseases. Current treatment strategies offer limited efficacy, often accompanied by severe and debilitating adverse effects. Consequently, there is an urgent and compelling need to develop novel therapeutic interventions that can provide maximum efficacy in combating HCV while minimizing the burden of adverse effects on patients. One promising target against HCV is the NS3-4A serine protease, a complex composed of two HCV-encoded proteins. This non-covalent heterodimer is crucial in the viral life cycle and has become a primary focus for therapeutic interventions. Although peginterferon, combined with ribavirin, is commonly employed for HCV treatment, its efficacy is hampered by significant adverse effects that can profoundly impact patients' quality of life. In recent years, the development of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) has emerged as a breakthrough in HCV therapy. These agents exhibit remarkable potency against the virus and have demonstrated fewer adverse effects when combined with other DAAs. However, it is important to note that there is a potential for developing resistance to DAAs due to alterations in the amino acid position of the NS3-4A protease. This emphasizes the need for ongoing research to identify strategies that can minimize the emergence of resistance and ensure long-term effectiveness. While the combination of DAAs holds promise for HCV treatment, it is crucial to consider the possibility of drug-drug interactions. These interactions may occur when different DAAs are used concurrently, potentially compromising their therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, carefully evaluating and monitoring potential drug interactions are vital to optimize treatment outcomes. In the pursuit of novel therapeutic interventions for HCV, the field of computational biology and bioinformatics has emerged as a valuable tool. These advanced technologies and methodologies enable the development and design of new drugs and therapeutic agents that exhibit maximum efficacy, reduced risk of resistance, and minimal adverse effects. By leveraging computational approaches, researchers can efficiently screen and optimize potential candidates, accelerating the discovery and development of highly effective treatments for HCV, treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shagufta Kamal
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Asif Shahzad
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Kanwal Rehman
- Department of Pharmacy, The Women University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Komal Tariq
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Imran
- Research center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Ali Assiri
- Research center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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Sachithanandham J, Balagopal A, Leep-Lazar J, Quinn J, Bowden K, Ward K, Ribeiro RM, Sulkowski MS. Second-Phase Hepatitis C Plasma Viral Kinetics Directly Reflects Reduced Intrahepatic Burden of Hepatitis C Virus. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:311-320. [PMID: 36722133 PMCID: PMC10420397 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mathematical models explain how antivirals control viral infections. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment results in at least 2 phases of decline in viremia. The first phase reflects clearance of rapidly produced virions. The second phase is hypothesized to derive from loss of infected cells but has been challenging to prove. METHODS Using single-cell methods, we quantified the number of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected hepatocytes in liver biopsies taken before and within 7 days of initiating direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in a double-blinded randomized controlled trial testing 2 (sofosbuvir-velpatasvir) versus 3 (sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir) DAAs. RESULTS We employed thousands of intrahepatic measurements in 10 persons with chronic genotype 1a HCV infection: median proportion of infected hepatocytes declined from 11.3% (range, 1.3%-59%) to 0.6% (range, <0.3%-5.8%), a loss of 75%-95% infected hepatocytes. Plasma viremia correlated with numbers of HCV-infected hepatocytes (r = 0.77; P < .0001). Second-phase plasma dynamics and changes in infected hepatocytes were indistinct (P = .16), demonstrating that second-phase viral dynamics derive from loss of infected cells. DAAs led to a decline in intracellular HCV RNA and interferon-stimulated gene expression (P < .05 for both). CONCLUSIONS We proved that second-phase viral dynamics reflect decay of intrahepatic burden of HCV, partly due to clearance of HCV RNA from hepatocytes. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT02938013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaiprasath Sachithanandham
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ashwin Balagopal
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Julia Leep-Lazar
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University,Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jeffrey Quinn
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kenneth Bowden
- Applied Physics Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University, Laurel, Maryland, USA
| | - Kathleen Ward
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ruy M Ribeiro
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico, USA
| | - Mark S Sulkowski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Martinez A, Cheng WH, Marx SE, Manthena S, Dylla DE, Wilson L, Thomas E. Shorter Duration Hepatitis C Virus Treatment is Associated with Better Persistence to Prescription Refills in People Who Inject Drugs: A Real-World Study. Adv Ther 2023; 40:3465-3477. [PMID: 37285080 PMCID: PMC10329950 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-023-02539-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy is highly effective in curing hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in people who inject drugs (PWID). Previous studies showed declining persistence to DAA therapy over the course of treatment. This study compares real-world medication persistence to prescription refills for 8- versus 12-week DAA in treatment-naïve PWID with chronic HCV with compensated cirrhosis or without cirrhosis. METHODS Symphony Health's claims database was used to collect data from patients with chronic HCV aged ≥ 12 years who were prescribed 8- or 12-week DAA therapy between August 2017 and November 2020 and had a diagnosis of addicted drug use within 6 months prior to index date. Eligible patients had medical/pharmacy claims in the 6 months before and 3 months after the first index medication fill date (i.e., index date). Patients completing all refills (8-week = 1 refill, 12-week = 2 refills) were deemed persistent. The percentage of persistent patients in each group, and at each refill step, was determined; outcomes were also assessed in a subgroup of Medicaid-insured patients. RESULTS This study assessed 7203 PWID with chronic HCV (8-week, 4002; 12-week, 3201). Patients prescribed 8-week DAA treatment were younger (42.9 ± 12.4 vs 47.5 ± 13.2, P < 0.001) and had fewer comorbidities (P < 0.001). Patients receiving 8- versus 12-week DAA had greater refill persistence (87.9% vs 64.4%, P < 0.001). Similar percentages of patients missed their first refill (8-week, 12.1% vs 12-week, 10.8%); nearly 25% of patients receiving 12-week DAA missed their second refill. After baseline characteristics were controlled, patients prescribed 8- versus 12-week DAA were more likely to be persistent (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] 4.3 [3.8, 5.0]). Findings in the Medicaid-insured subgroup were consistent. CONCLUSION Patients prescribed 8- vs 12-week DAA therapy had significantly greater prescription refill persistence. Most nonpersistence was due to missed second refills, highlighting the potential benefit of shorter treatment durations in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Martinez
- Department of Medicine, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 462 Grider Street, Buffalo, NY, 14215, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Emmanuel Thomas
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Four Weeks Treatment with Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir + Ribavirin-A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Viruses 2022; 14:v14030614. [PMID: 35337021 PMCID: PMC8948928 DOI: 10.3390/v14030614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancing treatment uptake for hepatitis C to achieve the elimination goals set by the World Health Organization could be achieved by reducing the treatment duration. The aim of this study was to compare the sustained virological response at week 12 (SVR12) after four weeks of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) + ribavirin compared to eight weeks of GLE/PIB and to estimate predictors for SVR12 with four weeks of treatment through a multicenter open label randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomized 2:1 (4 weeks:8 weeks) and stratified by genotype 3 and were treatment naïve of all genotypes and without significant liver fibrosis. A total of 27 patients were analyzed for predictors for SVR12, including 15 from the first pilot phase of the study. In the ‘modified intention to treat’ group, 100% (7/7) achieved cure after eight weeks and for patients treated for four weeks the SVR12 was 58.3% (7/12). However, patients with a baseline viral load <2 mill IU/mL had 93% SVR12. The study closed prematurely due to the low number of included patients due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our results suggest that viral load should be taken into account when considering trials of short course treatment.
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Du Y, Khera T, Strunz B, Deterding K, Todt D, Woller N, Engelskircher SA, Hardtke S, Port K, Ponzetta A, Steinmann E, Cornberg M, Hengst J, Björkström NK, Wedemeyer H. Imprint of unconventional T-cell response in acute hepatitis C persists despite successful early antiviral treatment. Eur J Immunol 2021; 52:472-483. [PMID: 34843107 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Unconventional T cells (UTCs) are a heterogeneous group of T cells that typically exhibit rapid responses toward specific antigens from pathogens. Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection causes dysfunction of several subsets of UTCs. This altered phenotype and function of UTCs can persist over time even after direct-acting antiviral (DAA)-mediated clearance of chronic HCV. However, it is less clear if and how UTCs respond in acute, symptomatic HCV infection, a rare clinical condition, and if rapid DAA treatment of such patients reverses the caused perturbations within UTCs. Here, we comprehensively analyzed the phenotype and reinvigoration capacity of three major UTC populations, mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, γδ T cells, and CD4 and CD8 double-negative αβ T cells (DNT cells) before, during, and after DAA-mediated clearance of acute symptomatic HCV infection. Furthermore, MAIT cell functionality was systematically studied. We observed a reduced frequency of MAIT cells. However, remaining cells presented with a near-to-normal phenotype in acute infection, which contrasted with a significant dysfunction upon stimulation that was not restored after viral clearance. Notably, DNT and γδ T cells displayed a strong activation ex-vivo in acute HCV infection, which subsequently normalized during the treatment. In addition, DNT cell activation was specifically associated with liver inflammation and inflammatory cytokines. Altogether, these data provide evidence that UTCs respond in a cell type-specific manner during symptomatic HCV infection. However, even if early treatment is initiated, long-lasting imprints within UTCs remain over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqin Du
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Tanvi Khera
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Benedikt Strunz
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katja Deterding
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniel Todt
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,European Virus Bioinformatics Center (EVBC), Jena, Germany
| | - Norman Woller
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Sophie Anna Engelskircher
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Svenja Hardtke
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), HepNet Study-House, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kerstin Port
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andrea Ponzetta
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eike Steinmann
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), HepNet Study-House, Hannover, Germany.,Center for Individualized Infection Medicine (CIIM), Hannover, Germany.,Twincore, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence Resolving Infection Susceptibility (RESIST: EXC), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Julia Hengst
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Niklas K Björkström
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), HepNet Study-House, Hannover, Germany
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- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Madsen LW, Christensen PB, Fahnøe U, Pedersen MS, Bukh J, Øvrehus A. Inferior cure rate in pilot study of 4-week glecaprevir/pibrentasvir treatment with or without ribavirin of chronic hepatitis C. Liver Int 2021; 41:2601-2610. [PMID: 34154034 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Shortening the treatment duration for chronic hepatitis C may increase feasibility and reduce the cost of cure. The aims of this study were to compare 4 weeks of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) treatment with and without ribavirin for patients with chronic hepatitis C and favourable baseline characteristics and to monitor the development of resistance-associated substitutions (RAS) and re-treatment outcomes if treatment failed. METHODS We performed an open-label single-centre randomized controlled trial, in which patients with chronic hepatitis C were randomized 1:1 to GLE/PIB ± ribavirin, stratified by genotype 3. The main inclusion criteria were treatment-naive patients, aged 18-49 with all genotypes accepted, and absence of liver fibrosis, determined by liver stiffness measurement less than 8 kPa. Viral genome sequences were determined by deep sequencing at baseline and at the time of relapse. RESULTS A total of 32 patients started treatment. Sustained virological response at week 12 (SVR12) was 59% (10/17) for GLE/PIB without ribavirin and 73% (11/15) for GLE/PIB with ribavirin. Drug target-specific NS5A RAS were detected at baseline for 45% (5/11) of patients with treatment failure and for 14% (3/21) of patients who achieved SVR12. Ten failure patients were retreated 12 weeks with sofosbuvir-based regimens; all have been cured. CONCLUSIONS In this pilot study of 4-week treatment with GLE/PIB with and without ribavirin, we found that baseline RAS were more frequent in patients with virological failure. Development of RAS did occur after short treatment but did not result in retreatment failure with a different regimen. EudraCT no: 2017-005179-21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lone W Madsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,OPEN, Odense Patient data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Peer B Christensen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,OPEN, Odense Patient data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Ulrik Fahnøe
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin S Pedersen
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Bukh
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Øvrehus
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Matthews GV, Bhagani S, Van der Valk M, Rockstroh J, Feld JJ, Rauch A, Thurnheer C, Bruneau J, Kim A, Hellard M, Shaw D, Gane E, Nelson M, Ingiliz P, Applegate TL, Grebely J, Marks P, Martinello M, Petoumenos K, Dore GJ. Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir for 12 vs. 6 weeks for the treatment of recently acquired hepatitis C infection. J Hepatol 2021; 75:829-839. [PMID: 34023350 PMCID: PMC9831671 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.04.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Shortened duration therapy for acute and recent HCV infection has been shown to be highly effective in several small non-randomised studies with direct-acting antiviral regimens; however, large randomised studies are lacking. METHODS REACT was an NIH-funded multicentre international, open-label, randomised, phase IV non-inferiority trial examining the efficacy of short course (6-week) vs. standard course (12-week) therapy with sofosbuvir-velpatasvir for recent HCV infection (estimated duration of infection ≤12 months). Randomisation occurred at week 6. The primary endpoint was sustained virological response 12 weeks after treatment end (SVR12) in the intention-to treat (ITT) population. A total of 250 participants were due to be enrolled, but on advice of the data safety and monitoring board the study was halted early. RESULTS The primary analysis population consisted of 188 randomised participants at termination of study enrolment; short arm (n = 93), standard arm (n = 95). Ninety-seven percent were male and 69% HIV positive. ITT SVR12 was 76/93, 81.7% (95% CI 72.4-89.0) in the short arm and 86/95, 90.5% (95% CI 82.7-95.6) in the standard arm. The difference between the arms was -8.8 (95% CI -18.6 to 1.0). In modified ITT analysis, wherein non-virological reasons for failure were excluded (death, reinfection, loss to follow-up), SVR12 was 76/85, 89.4% (95% CI 80.8-95.0) in the short arm and 86/88, 97.7% in the standard arm (95% CI 92.0-99.7; difference -8.3%, p = 0.025). CONCLUSIONS In this randomised study in recent HCV infection, a 6-week course of sofosbuvir-velpatasvir did not meet the criteria for non-inferiority to standard 12-week therapy. LAY SUMMARY In this randomised trial, 188 people with recently acquired hepatitis C infection were randomly assigned to treatment using either a short 6-week course (93 people) or standard 12-week course (95 people) of the hepatitis C treatment sofosbuvir/velpatasvir. There were 9 cases of relapse after treatment with the short course and 2 following the standard course. A shortened course of 6-week therapy for hepatitis C infection appeared to be less effective than a standard 12-week course in people with recently acquired hepatitis C infection. CLINICALTRIALS. GOV IDENTIFIER NCT02625909.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail V Matthews
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
| | | | - Marc Van der Valk
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andri Rauch
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Julie Bruneau
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Arthur Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Margaret Hellard
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Shaw
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ed Gane
- Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mark Nelson
- Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick Ingiliz
- Zentrum für Infektiologie Berlin-Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gregory J Dore
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Thieneman C, Frederick E, Palmer E, Spencer C, Vories S, Maier C. Evaluation of cure rate in patients with hepatitis C virus completing shortened courses of treatment. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 62:232-236. [PMID: 34454865 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guidelines recommend treatment with direct-acting antivirals for a minimum duration of 8 weeks in all patients with hepatitis C virus. Minimizing treatment duration is desirable because of decreased cost and increased adherence. Studies with treatment durations of less than 8 weeks have conflicting data. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of hepatitis C treatment in patients who did not complete the guideline-recommended duration of therapy. METHODS This was a retrospective, observational case series of patients with hepatitis C virus treated with 7 weeks or less of direct-acting antivirals between November 1, 2017 and July 31, 2019 at a large, academic medical center. The primary end point was cure, defined as sustained virologic response at 12 weeks after the end of treatment. Secondary end points included average duration of therapy, direct-acting antiviral used, and reason for early discontinuation. RESULTS Of the 472 patients treated, 13 met criteria for inclusion. Sustained virologic response was achieved in 61.5% of the patients. Two patients (15.3%) were not cured, and 3 patients (23.1%) were lost to follow-up. Median duration of therapy was 4 weeks. All patients who received at least 4 weeks of therapy and remained in care were cured. CONCLUSION In situations in which patients inadvertently stop hepatitis C treatment early, there is still the possibility of cure. Further studies are needed to determine which patient population may benefit from a shorter duration of therapy.
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Gindin Y, Gaggar A, Lok AS, Janssen HLA, Ferrari C, Subramanian GM, Jiang Z, Masur H, Emmanuel B, Poonia B, Kottilil S. DNA Methylation and Immune Cell Markers Demonstrate Evidence of Accelerated Aging in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus or Hepatitis C Virus, with or without Human Immunodeficienct Virus Co-infection. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e184-e190. [PMID: 32915202 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several chronic diseases accelerate biological aging. We investigated age acceleration and the association between peripheral blood DNA methylation (DNAm) and immune cell markers in patients chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) or the hepatitis C virus (HCV) with and without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection. METHODS Age acceleration was measured as the difference between epigenetic age (Horvath clock) and chronological age. The immune marker model of age acceleration was developed using Elastic Net regression to select both the immune markers and their associated weights in the final linear model. RESULTS Patients with chronic HBV (n = 51) had a significantly higher median epigenetic age compared to chronological age (age accelerated) (P < .001). In patients with chronic HCV infection (n = 63), age acceleration was associated with liver fibrosis as assessed by histology (P < .05), or presence of HIV co-infection (P < .05), but not HCV mono-infection. Age acceleration defined by immune markers was concordant with age acceleration by DNA methylation (correlation coefficient = .59 in HBV; P = .0025). One-year treatment of HBV patients with nucleoside therapy was associated with a modest reduction in age acceleration, as measured using the immune marker model (-.65 years, P = .018). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that patients with chronic viral hepatitis have accelerated epigenetic aging, that immune markers define biological age, and have the potential to assess the effects of therapeutic intervention on age acceleration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anuj Gaggar
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, California, USA
| | - Anna S Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Harry L A Janssen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network Sandra Rotman Centre for Global Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carlo Ferrari
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Henry Masur
- Critical Care Medicine Department, NIH Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health , Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Benjamin Emmanuel
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bhawna Poonia
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Fu Z, Dong C, Ge Z, Wang C, Zhang Y, Shen C, Li J, Zhu C, Wang Y, Huang P, Yue M. High SVR12 With 8-Week Course of Direct-Acting Antivirals in Adolescents and Children With Chronic Hepatitis C: A Comprehensive Analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:608760. [PMID: 34169081 PMCID: PMC8217461 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.608760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment for 8 weeks has a sustained virological response rate in adults with chronic hepatitis C. We have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of the 8-week vs. 12/24-week DAA treatment in adolescents and children with CHC. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were searched for the relevant articles from January 1, 2017 to August 28, 2020 and further screened for literature reviews on April 1, 2021. Pool proportions with 95% CIs for SVR12 were summarized with fixed/random effects models using Freeman–Tukey double arcsine transformation. Subgroup analysis was used to explore the source of heterogeneity. Thirty-six relevant publications were identified. For adolescents aged 12–17 years old, the pooled SVR12 and AE rate were 99.4% (95% CI: 98.7–99.9) and 34.7% (95% CI: 31.9–37.6). No one discontinued treatment due to drug intolerance. In addition, the SVR12 adolescents treated for 12 and 8/24 weeks were 99.3% (95% CI: 98.4–99.9) and 100%, respectively. The pooled SVR12 rate, AEs, and SAEs for children younger than 12 years were 98.9% (95% CI: 97.3–99.8), 51.6% (95% CI: 47.0–56.2), and 1.1% (95% CI: 0.4–2.5), respectively. The most common AE was fatigue (28.4%). The SVR12 was 98.8% (95% CI: 97.1–99.8) and 100% for the pediatric patients treated for 12 weeks and 8/24 weeks, respectively. Taken together, DAAs are generally effective against CHC and well-tolerated by the adolescents and children. A treatment duration of 8 weeks is equally effective and safe as 12/24 weeks in this demographic group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuqiang Fu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Eastern Theater Command Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Dong
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhijun Ge
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Chunhui Wang
- Eastern Theater Command Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Eastern Theater Command Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Nanjing, China
| | - Chao Shen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Eastern Theater Command Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuanlong Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Eastern Theater Command Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Nanjing, China
| | - Ming Yue
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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11
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Wurcel AG, Reyes J, Zubiago J, Koutoujian PJ, Burke D, Knox TA, Concannon T, Lemon SC, Wong JB, Freund KM, Beckwith CG, LeClair AM. "I'm not gonna be able to do anything about it, then what's the point?": A broad group of stakeholders identify barriers and facilitators to HCV testing in a Massachusetts jail. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250901. [PMID: 34038430 PMCID: PMC8153419 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite national guidelines promoting hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing in prisons, there is substantial heterogeneity on the implementation of HCV testing in jails. We sought to better understand barriers and opportunities for HCV testing by interviewing a broad group of stakeholders involved in HCV testing and treatment policies and procedures in Massachusetts jails. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with people incarcerated in Middlesex County Jail (North Billerica, MA), clinicians working in jail and community settings, corrections administrators, and representatives from public health, government, and industry between November 2018-April 2019. RESULTS 51/120 (42%) of people agreed to be interviewed including 21 incarcerated men (mean age 32 [IQR 25, 39], 60% non-White). Themes that emerged from these interviews included gaps in knowledge about HCV testing and treatment opportunities in jail, the impact of captivity and transience, and interest in improving linkage to HCV care after release. Many stakeholders discussed stigma around HCV infection as a factor in reluctance to provide HCV testing or treatment in the jail setting. Some stakeholders expressed that stigma often led decisionmakers to estimate a lower "worth" of incarcerated individuals living with HCV and therefore to decide against paying for HCV testing.". CONCLUSION All stakeholders agreed that HCV in the jail setting is a public health issue that needs to be addressed. Exploring stakeholders' many ideas about how HCV testing and treatment can be approached is the first step in developing feasible and acceptable strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysse G. Wurcel
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Jessica Reyes
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Julia Zubiago
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | | | - Deirdre Burke
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Tamsin A. Knox
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Thomas Concannon
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Stephenie C. Lemon
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America
| | - John B. Wong
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Karen M. Freund
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Curt G. Beckwith
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Amy M. LeClair
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
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12
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Orr C, Masur H, Kottilil S, Meissner EG. Hepatitis C Virus Relapse After Ultrashort Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy Associates With Expression of Genes Involved With Natural Killer-Cell and CD8 + T-Cell Function. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab118. [PMID: 33959672 PMCID: PMC8082583 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
To identify immunologic correlates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) relapse after direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy, we quantified select immune transcripts in whole blood from noncirrhotic HCV subjects treated with 4–6 weeks of DAAs. We identified specific markers of natural killer-cell and CD8+ T-cell function (GZMB, PRF1, NKp46) with higher expression in subjects who relapsed. These findings suggest a role for host immunity in HCV eradication with ultrashort DAA therapy. We quantified whole blood immune transcripts in noncirrhotic HCV subjects treated with shortcourse antiviral therapy. Markers of natural killer-cell and CD8+ T-cell function had higher expression in virologic relapsers, suggesting a role for host immunity in HCV eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody Orr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Henry Masur
- Critical Care Medicine Department, NIH Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Eric G Meissner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Correspondence: Eric G. Meissner, MD, PhD, 135 Rutledge Ave., MSC752, Charleston, SC 29425, USA ()
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13
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Orr C, Xu W, Masur H, Kottilil S, Meissner EG. Peripheral blood correlates of virologic relapse after Sofosbuvir and Ribavirin treatment of Genotype-1 HCV infection. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:929. [PMID: 33276734 PMCID: PMC7718661 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05657-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection with direct acting antiviral therapy results in viral elimination in over 90% of cases. The duration of treatment required to achieve cure differs between individuals and relapse can occur. We asked whether cellular and transcriptional profiling of peripheral blood collected during treatment could identify biomarkers predictive of treatment outcome. Methods We analyzed peripheral blood collected during treatment of genotype 1 HCV with 24 weeks of sofosbuvir and weight-based or low dose ribavirin in a trial in which 29% of patients relapsed. Changes in host immunity during treatment were assessed by flow cytometry and whole blood gene expression profiling. Differences in expression of immune-relevant transcripts based on treatment outcome were analyzed using the Nanostring Human Immunology V2 panel. Results Multiple cellular populations changed during treatment, but pre-treatment neutrophil counts were lower and natural post-treatment killer cell counts were higher in patients who relapsed. Pre-treatment expression of genes associated with interferon-signaling, T-cell dysfunction, and T-cell co-stimulation differed by treatment outcome. We identified a pre- and post-treatment gene expression signature with high predictive capacity for distinguishing treatment outcome, but neither signature was sufficiently robust to suggest viability for clinical use. Conclusions Patients who relapse after hepatitis C virus therapy differ immunologically from non-relapsers based on expression of transcripts related to interferon signaling and T-cell dysfunction, as well as by peripheral neutrophil and NK-cell concentrations. These data provide insight into the host immunologic basis of relapse after DAA therapy for HCV and suggests mechanisms which may be relevant for understanding outcomes with currently approved regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody Orr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Rutledge Ave, MSC752, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Wenjie Xu
- Nanostring Technologies, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Henry Masur
- Critical Care Medicine Department, NIH Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eric G Meissner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Rutledge Ave, MSC752, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA. .,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Rutledge Ave, MSC752, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
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14
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Etzion O, Dahari H, Yardeni D, Issachar A, Nevo-Shor A, Cohen-Naftaly M, Ashur Y, Uprichard SL, Arbib OS, Munteanu D, Braun M, Cotler SJ, Abufreha N, Keren-Naus A, Shemer-Avni Y, Mor O, Murad J, Novack V, Shlomai A. Response guided therapy for reducing duration of direct acting antivirals in chronic hepatitis C infected patients: a Pilot study. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17820. [PMID: 33082372 PMCID: PMC7575564 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74568-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has transformed the landscape of hepatitis C virus (HCV) management. We aimed to prospectively (real-time) evaluate the feasibility of using a response-guided therapy approach, based on mathematical modeling of early viral kinetics, to reduce the duration of DAAs therapy. Patients were treated with DAAs according to the physicians' preference. HCV was measured at baseline and at day 2 and weeks 1, 2 and 4 after treatment initiation. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with sustained-virological response (SVR) at 12 and/or 24 weeks post-treatment. Twenty-nine patients (mean age 54 ± 16, 44% females, 73% with HCV genotype 1), were enrolled and all completed therapy. Treatment duration was shortened in 11 of the 29 patients (38%). SVR was achieved in 28 of the 29 patients (97%). Relapse occurred post treatment in a single case of a non-cirrhotic male with genotype 3, who was treated with sofosbuvir/velpatasvir for 6 weeks. Virus sequencing did not identify baseline or treatment emergent resistance associated substitutions. Real-time mathematical modeling of early HCV kinetics can be utilized for shortening DAAs duration in approximately 40% of patients without compromising treatment efficacy.Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03603327.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ohad Etzion
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Soroka University Medical Center, 151 Rager Yitzhak Blvd, 84171 Beer-Sheva, Israel ,grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Harel Dahari
- grid.164971.c0000 0001 1089 6558The Program for Experimental and Theoretical Modeling, Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, 2160 S. First Ave, Maywood, IL 60153 USA
| | - David Yardeni
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Soroka University Medical Center, 151 Rager Yitzhak Blvd, 84171 Beer-Sheva, Israel ,grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Assaf Issachar
- grid.413156.40000 0004 0575 344XDepartment of Medicine D and The Liver Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah-Tikva, Israel ,grid.12136.370000 0004 1937 0546Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Anat Nevo-Shor
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Soroka University Medical Center, 151 Rager Yitzhak Blvd, 84171 Beer-Sheva, Israel ,grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Michal Cohen-Naftaly
- grid.413156.40000 0004 0575 344XDepartment of Medicine D and The Liver Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah-Tikva, Israel ,grid.12136.370000 0004 1937 0546Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yaffa Ashur
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Medical Management Unit, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Susan L. Uprichard
- grid.164971.c0000 0001 1089 6558The Program for Experimental and Theoretical Modeling, Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, 2160 S. First Ave, Maywood, IL 60153 USA
| | - Orly Sneh Arbib
- grid.413156.40000 0004 0575 344XDepartment of Medicine D and The Liver Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah-Tikva, Israel ,grid.12136.370000 0004 1937 0546Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Daniela Munteanu
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Soroka University Medical Center, 151 Rager Yitzhak Blvd, 84171 Beer-Sheva, Israel ,grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Marius Braun
- grid.413156.40000 0004 0575 344XDepartment of Medicine D and The Liver Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah-Tikva, Israel ,grid.12136.370000 0004 1937 0546Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Scott J. Cotler
- grid.164971.c0000 0001 1089 6558The Program for Experimental and Theoretical Modeling, Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, 2160 S. First Ave, Maywood, IL 60153 USA
| | - Naim Abufreha
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Soroka University Medical Center, 151 Rager Yitzhak Blvd, 84171 Beer-Sheva, Israel ,grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ayelet Keren-Naus
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Yonat Shemer-Avni
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Orna Mor
- grid.413795.d0000 0001 2107 2845Central Virology Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Jayanah Murad
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Victor Novack
- grid.412686.f0000 0004 0470 8989Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Amir Shlomai
- grid.413156.40000 0004 0575 344XDepartment of Medicine D and The Liver Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah-Tikva, Israel ,grid.12136.370000 0004 1937 0546Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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15
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Emmanuel B, El-Kamary SS, Magder LS, Stafford KA, Charurat ME, Chairez C, McLaughlin M, Hadigan C, Prokunina-Olsson L, O'Brien TR, Masur H, Kottilil S. Metabolic Changes in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Who Carry IFNL4-ΔG and Achieve Sustained Virologic Response With Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy. J Infect Dis 2020; 221:102-109. [PMID: 31504644 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clearance of hepatitis C virus (HCV) results in rapid changes in metabolic parameters early in direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. Long-term changes after sustained virologic response (SVR) remain unknown. METHODS We investigated longitudinal changes in metabolic and inflammatory outcomes in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) using a general linear model for repeated measurements at 5 clinical time points and by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection and IFNL4 genotype. RESULTS The mean LDL increased markedly during DAA therapy (pre-DAA, 86.6 to DAA, 107.4 mg/dL; P < .0001), but then it decreased to 97.7 mg/dL by post-SVR year 1 (P < .001 compared with DAA; P = .0013 compared with SVR). In patients who carry the IFNL4-ΔG allele, mean LDL increased during treatment, then decreased at post-SVR year 1; however, in patients with TT/TT, genotype did not change during and after DAA treatment. The mean ALT and AST normalized rapidly between pre-DAA and DAA, whereas only mean ALT continued to decrease until post-SVR. Metabolic and inflammatory outcomes were similar by HIV-coinfection status. CONCLUSIONS Changes in LDL among CHC patients who achieved SVR differed by IFNL4 genotype, which implicates the interferon-λ4 protein in metabolic changes observed in HCV-infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Emmanuel
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | - Kristen A Stafford
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Man E Charurat
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Cheryl Chairez
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Mary McLaughlin
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Colleen Hadigan
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Thomas R O'Brien
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Henry Masur
- Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, Baltimore, Maryland
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16
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Havens JP, Regan NN, Bares SH. Sustained Virologic Suppression After 4 Weeks of Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Co-Infection. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2020; 21:e923326. [PMID: 32493896 PMCID: PMC7295314 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.923326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Patient: Male, 28-year-old Final Diagnosis: HCV infection Symptoms: Not applicable Medication: — Clinical Procedure: — Specialty: Infectious Diseases
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Havens
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.,Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Nichole N Regan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Sara H Bares
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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17
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Kronfli N, Buxton JA, Jennings L, Kouyoumdjian F, Wong A. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) care in Canadian correctional facilities: Where are we and where do we need to be? CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2019; 2:171-183. [PMID: 35992759 PMCID: PMC9202815 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj.2019-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 25% of people in Canadian correctional facilities have been previously exposed to hepatitis C virus (HCV). Despite being a high-prevalence setting, most Canadian prisons have thus far failed to engage the majority of those with chronic HCV infection in care. Several factors, including the lack of systematic screening programs, lack of on-site and trained health care personnel to improve access to care and treatment during incarceration, and the absence of standardized procedures needed to facilitate linkage to care following release likely contribute to poor engagement along the HCV care cascade for people in prison. HCV screening and engagement in care for people in prison can be improved through the implementation of universal opt-out screening upon admission and consideration of multidisciplinary care models for the provision of care. As well, the dissemination of prison-based needle and syringe programs to avert new HCV infections and re-infections should be considered. To meet the World Health Organization (WHO) 2030 HCV elimination goals, engaging researchers, clinicians and other health care providers, policy makers, correctional officials, and members of community in dialogue will be an essential first step going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Kronfli
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- BC Centre of Disease Control and School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lindsay Jennings
- Prisoners with HIV/AIDS Support Action Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fiona Kouyoumdjian
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexander Wong
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
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18
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Joshi P, Atherton A. Sustained virologic response with 6 weeks or less of direct-acting antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C: Experience at a veterans affairs healthcare system. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 34:2173-2178. [PMID: 31062412 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.14703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Duration of treatment for chronic hepatitis C infection has been shortened since the introduction of highly effective direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Presented is our experience in successful treatment of veterans with chronic hepatitis C infection, with a shorter than currently recommended duration of therapy. METHODS Retrospective chart review of veterans with chronic hepatitis C infection who received more than 1 week and up to 6 weeks (8-42 days) of DAA therapy with the initiation day between January 1, 2015, and October 15, 2018, at Bay Pines Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. Successful treatment was defined by a sustained virologic response at 12 weeks (SVR-12) since the end of treatment. RESULTS Of the 1841 veterans treated, 27 met the criteria for this review. Overall, SVR-12 was achieved in 92.6% of veterans treated for a duration of more than 1 week and up to 6 weeks. Amongst those who completed only 4 weeks of therapy, 93.3% achieved SVR-12. All four veterans (100%) treated for a duration of more than 4 weeks and up to 6 weeks achieved SVR-12. CONCLUSIONS Amongst the chronically infected hepatitis C population, a subpopulation who could achieve SVR with a shorter course of treatment than currently recommended does exist. A prospective study of a larger scale will likely provide helpful data in this regard. Our findings could be an impetus for further work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prajwol Joshi
- Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, Bay Pines, Florida, USA
| | - Amanda Atherton
- Department of Pharmacy, Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, Bay Pines, Florida, USA
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19
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An J, Lee JS, Sharpsten L, Wilson AK, Cao F, Tran JN. Impact of pill burden on adherence to hepatitis C medication. Curr Med Res Opin 2019; 35:1937-1944. [PMID: 31298592 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2019.1643160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To describe pill burden before and after hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment initiation among patients newly treated for HCV infection, and to evaluate the association between HCV pill burden and gaps in HCV therapy. Methods: This was a retrospective administrative claims study of patients treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for HCV from 1 November 2013 to 31 July 2016. HCV pill burden was defined as the pill count per day for the index HCV regimen. Mean overall pill burden (HCV medications plus non-HCV medications) was calculated in the 90 days before and after DAA initiation. Gaps in the index HCV regimen were assessed in the 6 months after DAA initiation. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare the odds of a gap in HCV therapy across HCV pill burden categories (1 pill/day, 2 pills/day, and ≥3 pills/day). Results: Among 9815 patients who met the study criteria, mean overall pill burdens before and after DAA treatment initiation were 5.4 and 7.7, respectively (p < .001). The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of a ≥15-day gap in HCV therapy was 1.75 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.38-2.22) for patients with 2 HCV pills/day and 2.11 (95% CI = 1.78-2.51) for patients with ≥3 pills/day, compared with patients with 1 HCV pill/day. Conclusions: Patients with HCV have a substantial pill burden even before initiating HCV treatment. As higher HCV pill burden was associated with lower medication adherence, pill burden should be an important consideration in HCV treatment selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaejin An
- Western University of Health Sciences , Pomona , CA , USA
| | - Janet S Lee
- Gilead Sciences Inc. , Foster City , CA , USA
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Jones CR, Flower BF, Barber E, Simmons B, Cooke GS. Treatment optimisation for hepatitis C in the era of combination direct-acting antiviral therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Wellcome Open Res 2019; 4:132. [PMID: 31754636 PMCID: PMC6854875 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15411.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Prior to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy, personalised medicine played an important role in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Whilst simplified treatment strategies are central to treatment scale-up, some patients will benefit from treatment optimisation. This systematic review and meta-analysis explores treatment optimisation strategies in the DAA era. Methods: We systematically searched Medline, Embase, and Web of Science for studies that adopted a stratified or personalised strategy using a licensed combination DAA regimen, alone or with additional agents. We performed a thematic analysis to classify optimisation strategies and a meta-analysis of sustained virologic response rates (SVR), exploring heterogeneity with subgroup analyses and meta-regression. Results: We included 64 studies (9450 participants). Thematic analysis found evidence of three approaches: duration, combination, and/or dose optimisation. We separated strategies into those aiming to maintain SVR in the absence of predictors of failure, and those aiming to improve SVR in the presence of predictors of failure. Shortened duration regimens achieve pooled SVR rates of 94.2% (92.3-95.9%) for 8 weeks, 81.1% (75.1-86.6%) for 6 weeks, and 63.1% (39.9-83.7%) for ≤4 weeks. Personalised strategies (100% vs 87.6%; p<0.001) and therapy shortened according to ≥3 host/viral factors (92.9% vs 81.4% or 87.2% for 1 or 2 host/viral factors, respectively; p=0.008) offer higher SVR rates when shortening therapy. Hard-to-treat HCV genotype 3 patients suffer lower SVR rates despite treatment optimisation (92.6% vs 98.2%; p=0.001). Conclusions: Treatment optimisation for individuals with multiple predictors of treatment failure can offer high SVR rates. More evidence is needed to identify with confidence those individuals in whom SVR can be achieved with shortened duration treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barnaby F. Flower
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, W2 1NY, UK
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ella Barber
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, W2 1NY, UK
| | - Bryony Simmons
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, W2 1NY, UK
| | - Graham S. Cooke
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, W2 1NY, UK
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21
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Hayes CN, Imamura M, Chayama K. Management of HCV patients in cases of direct-acting antiviral failure. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 13:839-848. [PMID: 31392907 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2019.1651642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Over 70 million people are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), increasing the risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Areas covered: Since the approval of the first interferon-free direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy in 2011, a number of DAAs have been approved, and HCV is now considered curable. Until recently, however, there were no clear guidelines on how to re-treat patients who fail DAA therapy. Current protease inhibitors (PIs) are generally unaffected by earlier resistance-associated variants (RAVs), but many NS5A inhibitors continue to have overlapping resistance profiles, and NS5A RAVs can persist even in the absence of DAAs. Expert opinion: Fortunately, RAVs affecting NS5B polymerase inhibitors are rare, making sofosbuvir a safe choice as the backbone of re-treatment therapies. Recent re-treatment guidelines that take into account genotype, fibrosis, treatment history, and RAV suggest that >90% of patients with prior treatment failures can be successfully re-treated with sofosbuvir/velpatasvir, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir or glecaprevir/pibrentasvir.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Nelson Hayes
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Applied Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University , Hiroshima , Japan.,Liver Research Project Center, Hiroshima University , Hiroshima , Japan
| | - Michio Imamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Applied Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University , Hiroshima , Japan.,Liver Research Project Center, Hiroshima University , Hiroshima , Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Applied Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University , Hiroshima , Japan.,Liver Research Project Center, Hiroshima University , Hiroshima , Japan
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22
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Ghosh A, Mondal RK, Romani S, Bagchi S, Cairo C, Pauza CD, Kottilil S, Poonia B. Persistent gamma delta T-cell dysfunction in chronic HCV infection despite direct-acting antiviral therapy induced cure. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:1105-1116. [PMID: 31074195 PMCID: PMC7152509 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immune dysfunction is a hallmark of chronic HCV infection and viral clearance with direct antivirals recover some of these immune defects. TCRVγ9Vδ2 T-cell dysfunction in treated HCV patients however is not well studied and was the subject of this investigation. Peripheral blood cells from patients who had achieved sustained virologic response (SVR) or those who had relapsed after interferon-free therapy were phenotyped using flow cytometry. Functional potential of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells was tested by measuring proliferation in response to aminobisphosphonate zoledronic acid, and cytotoxicity against HepG2 hepatoma cell line. TCR sequencing was performed to analyse impact of HCV infection on Vδ2 T-cell repertoire. Vγ9Vδ2 cells from patients were activated and therapy resulted in reduction of CD38 expression on these cells in SVR group. Relapsed patients had Vδ2 cells with persistently activated and terminally differentiated cytotoxic phenotype (CD38+ CD45RA+ CD27- CD107a+ ). Irrespective of outcome with therapy, majority of patients had persistently poor Vδ2 T-cell proliferative response to zoledronate along with lower expression of CD56, which identifies anti-tumour cytotoxic subset, relative to healthy controls. There was no association between the number of antigen reactive Vγ2-Jγ1.2 TCR rearrangements at baseline and levels of proliferation indicating nonresponse to zoledronate is not due to depletion of phosphoantigen responding chains. Thus, HCV infection results in circulating Vγ9Vδ2 T cells with a phenotype equipped for immediate effector function but poor cytokine response and expansion in response to antigen, a functional defect that may have implications for susceptibility for carcinogenesis despite HCV cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alip Ghosh
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine
| | - Rajiv K Mondal
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine
| | - Sara Romani
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine
| | - Shashwatee Bagchi
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine
| | - Cristiana Cairo
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine
| | - C David Pauza
- American Gene Technologies, Rockville, Maryland 20850
| | | | - Bhawna Poonia
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine
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23
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Romani S, Stafford K, Nelson A, Bagchi S, Kottilil S, Poonia B. Peripheral PD-1 + T Cells Co-expressing Inhibitory Receptors Predict SVR With Ultra Short Duration DAA Therapy in HCV Infection. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1470. [PMID: 31316516 PMCID: PMC6610534 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct acting antiviral (DAA) regimens of 12 weeks result in HCV clearance in vast majority of patients across genotypes. We previously demonstrated an ultra-short regimen of 4 weeks DAA cleared HCV in a subset of patients. Here, we hypothesized that individual level of antiviral immunity differentially influenced viral clearance and investigated biomarkers of a successful response. Cohorts of HCV patients treated for 4 weeks with DAA therapy who either achieved sustained virologic response (SVR) or relapsed were compared at baseline and at end of therapy (EOT) for immune cell phenotypes and HCV specific immunity. Higher levels of PD-1+ CD8+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes co-expressing inhibitory receptors (IR) were present at baseline and at EOT in HCV patients who eventually achieved SVR compared with those who relpased. HCV specific CD8+ T cells were predominantly contained within these IR expressing PD-1+ subsets. Patients in the SVR group had significantly higher CD8+ T cell degranulation in response to HCV peptides at baseline and higher levels of cytokine producing T cells at EOT time-point, relative to those who relapsed. In ex vivo cultures, PD-1+CD160+ CD8+ T cells had higher HCV specific degranulation and PD-1+2B4+ CD8+ T cells had higher cytokine expression (IFNγ+TNFα+ or IFNγ+CD107a+) compared with single or no IR expressing subsets, indicating higher virus specific functional capacity of these subsets. Receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC) for baseline circulating frequencies of PD-1+CD160+, PD-1+Tim-3+ CD8+ T cells and PD-1+CD160+, PD-1+Blimp-1+, PD-1-CTLA4+ CD4+ T cells respectively, had associated C-statistics of 0.8214 and 0.9451 for discriminatin of patients who successfully cleared HCV with 4 weeks treatment. Thus, PD-1+ virus-specific CD8+ T cell subsets with cytotoxic capacity are present in a subset of chronic HCV infected individuals that associate with ability to achieve SVR, indicating role of immunity in DAA mediated viral clearance with short duration therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Romani
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kristen Stafford
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Amy Nelson
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shashwatee Bagchi
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Bhawna Poonia
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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24
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Fawsitt CG, Vickerman P, Cooke G, Welton NJ. A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Shortened Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment in Genotype 1 Noncirrhotic Treatment-Naive Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Virus. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2019; 22:693-703. [PMID: 31198187 PMCID: PMC6588649 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2018.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Direct-acting antivirals are successful in curing hepatitis C virus infection in more than 95% of patients treated for 12 weeks, but they are expensive. Shortened treatment durations, which may have lower cure rates, have been proposed to reduce costs. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the lifetime cost-effectiveness of different shortened treatment durations for genotype 1 noncirrhotic treatment-naive patients. METHODS Assuming a UK National Health Service perspective, we used a probabilistic decision tree and Markov model to compare 3 unstratified shortened treatment durations (8, 6, and 4 weeks) against a standard 12-week treatment duration. Patients failing shortened first-line treatment were re-treated with a 12-week treatment regimen. Parameter inputs were taken from published studies. RESULTS The 8-week treatment duration had an expected incremental net monetary benefit of £7737 (95% confidence interval £3242-£11 819) versus the standard 12-week treatment, per 1000 patients. The 6-week treatment had a positive incremental net monetary benefit, although some uncertainty was observed. The probability that the 8- and 6-week treatments were the most cost-effective was 56% and 25%, respectively, whereas that for the 4-week treatment was 17%. Results were generally robust to sensitivity analyses, including a threshold analysis that showed that the 8-week treatment was the most cost-effective at all drug prices lower than £40 000 per 12-week course. CONCLUSIONS Shortening treatments licensed for 12 weeks to 8 weeks is cost-effective in genotype 1 noncirrhotic treatment-naive patients. There was considerable uncertainty in the estimates for 6- and 4-week treatments, with some indication that the 6-week treatment may be cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher G Fawsitt
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, England, UK.
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, England, UK
| | - Graham Cooke
- Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, England, UK
| | - Nicky J Welton
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, England, UK
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25
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A proof-of-concept study in HCV-infected Huh7.5 cells for shortening the duration of DAA-based triple treatment regimens. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 116:108976. [PMID: 31103827 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.108976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
With the development of more effective direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), dual- or triple-therapy regimens represent the major strategy used to cure chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Thus, shorter treatment duration regimens with low burden, few adverse effects and good patient adherence are urgently needed. This study theoretically demonstrates a proof-of-concept approach for shortening therapy duration by examining HCV-infected Huh7.5 cells after treatment with a high or low fixed dose of three DAAs (simeprevir + daclatasvir + sofosbuvir) for 6-15 days. The results demonstrated that HCV-infected Huh7.5 cells achieved an ultrarapid virologic response with undetectable HCV RNA and protein and were cured after treatment with the triple-therapy regimen for 15 days. When the treatment duration was shortened, virologic relapse might occur after treatment with a low fixed dose of the three DAAs for 9 days and did occur after treatment with a low fixed dose for 6 days, although HCV was below detectable levels at the end of treatment. However, virologic relapse could be avoided with treatment of a high fixed dose of the three DAAs for 9 or 6 days. Although a virologic breakthrough occurred after an intermittent treatment regimen at the low fixed dose, the high fixed dose cured HCV-positive Huh7.5 cells with intermittent treatment. In conclusion, HCV is persistently present below detectable levels in HCV-infected Huh7.5 cells for a long time after treatment, and a shortened therapy duration is associated with an increased risk of virologic relapse, but virologic relapse or breakthrough might be avoided by treatment with a combination of more highly effective DAAs.
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26
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Emmanuel B, El-Kamary SS, Magder LS, Stafford KA, Charurat ME, Poonia B, Chairez C, McLaughlin M, Hadigan C, Masur H, Kottilil S. Immunological recovery in T-cell activation after sustained virologic response among HIV positive and HIV negative chronic Hepatitis C patients. Hepatol Int 2019; 13:270-276. [PMID: 30835046 PMCID: PMC10900133 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-019-09941-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rapid decreases in activated CD4+ and CD8+ (HLA-DR + and CD38+ co-expressed) T-lymphocytes have been described within 1-2 weeks of initiating direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy among chronic Hepatitis C (CHC) patients. However, it is not known whether these changes are maintained past sustained virologic response (SVR), particularly in those who are HIV/HCV-coinfected. METHODS We investigated the changes in immune parameters of T-lymphocytes from pre-DAA therapy to post-SVR among HIV negative and HIV positive patients with CHC. Repeated measurements of activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were analyzed by flow cytometry at pre-DAA therapy, DAA therapy, end of treatment, SVR, and post-SVR. A general linear model for repeated measurements was used to estimate the mean outcome at each timepoint and change between timepoints. RESULTS HCV-monoinfected (n = 161) and HIV/HCV-coinfected (n = 59) patients who achieved SVR with DAA therapy were predominately middle aged, male, black, and non-cirrhotic. At pre-DAA therapy, HCV-monoinfected patients had significantly higher CD4+ T cells and CD4+:CD8+ T-cell ratio, while significantly lower CD8+ and activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells compared to HIV/HCV-coinfected patients (p < 0.0001). HCV-monoinfected and HIV/HCV-coinfected patients had a significant mean decrease from pre-DAA therapy to post-SVR year 1 for activated CD4+ (HCV-monoinfected: 4.8-3.9%, p < 0.0001; HIV/HCV-coinfected: 6.6-4.5%, p < 0.0001) and activated CD8+ T cells (HCV-monoinfected V: 13.8-11.8%, p = 0.0002; HIV/HCV-coinfected: 18.0-12.4%, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION This longitudinal study showed CHC patients treated with DAA therapy had continued decrease of T-lymphocytes from start of DAA therapy to after achievement of SVR suggesting improvement as HCV clearance normalizes activated T-cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Emmanuel
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 725 W. Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Samer S El-Kamary
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Laurence S Magder
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Kristen A Stafford
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 725 W. Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Man E Charurat
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Bhawna Poonia
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 725 W. Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Cheryl Chairez
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Mary McLaughlin
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Colleen Hadigan
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Henry Masur
- Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 725 W. Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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27
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Baumert TF, Berg T, Lim JK, Nelson DR. Status of Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy for Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Remaining Challenges. Gastroenterology 2019; 156:431-445. [PMID: 30342035 PMCID: PMC6446912 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chronic infection with hepatitis C virus is a major cause of liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. After the discovery of hepatitis C virus 3 decades ago, the identification of the structure of the viral proteins, combined with high-throughput replicon models, enabled the discovery and development of direct-acting antivirals. These agents have revolutionized patient care, with cure rates of more than 90%. We review the status of direct-acting antiviral therapies for hepatitis C virus infection and discuss remaining challenges. We highlight licensed compounds, discuss the potential to shorten therapy even further, and review different options for treatment failure and resistance. We also provide an overview of clinical experience with generic agents and evidence for their efficacy. Finally, we discuss the need for new drugs and outline promising targets for future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas F Baumert
- INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France; Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; Pôle Hépato-digestif, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Thomas Berg
- Section of Hepatology, Clinic for Gastroenterology and Rheumatology, University Clinic Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Joseph K Lim
- Section of Digestive Diseases and Yale Liver Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - David R Nelson
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
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28
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Gane EJ, Stedman CA, Schwabe C, Vijgen L, Chanda S, Kakuda TN, Fry J, Blatt LM, McClure MW. Short-Duration AL-335, Odalasvir, With or Without Simeprevir, in Patients With HCV GT1 or 3 Infection Without Cirrhosis. Hepatology 2018; 68:2145-2157. [PMID: 30070722 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This open-label, phase IIa study assessed the safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of direct-acting antiviral agent (DAA) regimens in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Multiple 6-12-week oral regimens of 400-800 mg once daily (QD) AL-335 + 50 mg QD/every other day odalasvir ± 75-150 mg QD simeprevir were evaluated in treatment-naïve, HCV genotype (GT)1/3-infected patients without cirrhosis. Safety/pharmacokinetic parameters, HCV-RNA, and sequencing data were assessed. Treatment regimens for later study cohorts were adjusted based on emerging data. In total, 112 patients were enrolled. Three serious treatment-emergent adverse events occurred, one of which (a Mobitz type 1 second-degree atrioventricular block [Wenckebach]) was possibly related to high odalasvir exposure and resulted in premature discontinuation of study drugs. No other clinically significant safety findings were identified. GT1-infected patients receiving 3-DAA for 6-8 weeks achieved 100% sustained virologic response 12 weeks and 24 weeks after the end of treatment (sustained virologic response [SVR12/24]). GT1-infected patients receiving 2-DAA or GT3-infected patients receiving 3-DAA had SVR12/24 less than 90%, whether treated for 8 weeks or 12 weeks. Virologic failure was associated with the emergence of generally persistent NS5A and/or transient NS5B resistance-associated substitutions in most patients. Pharmacokinetic characteristics of the three drugs were also elucidated. Conclusions: In treatment-naïve subjects without cirrhosis, AL-335 + odalasvir + simeprevir for 6-8 weeks was generally safe and highly efficacious against HCV GT1. However, inadequate efficacy was observed for the 2-DAA regimen in GT1-infected subjects and the 3-DAA regimen in GT3-infected subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Leen Vijgen
- Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Sushmita Chanda
- Alios BioPharma Inc. part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, South San Francisco, California
| | - Thomas N Kakuda
- Alios BioPharma Inc. part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, South San Francisco, California
| | - John Fry
- Alios BioPharma Inc. part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, South San Francisco, California
| | - Lawrence M Blatt
- Alios BioPharma Inc. part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, South San Francisco, California
| | - Matthew W McClure
- Alios BioPharma Inc. part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, South San Francisco, California
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29
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Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir expands reach while reducing cost and duration of hepatitis C virus therapy. Hepatol Int 2018; 12:214-222. [PMID: 29845496 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-018-9873-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatments have dramatically progressed from poorly tolerated, moderately successful interferon-based therapies to highly effective all-oral interferon-free regimens. While sustained virologic responses have significantly improved with fixed-dose combinations (FDC) of these direct-acting antivirals (DAA), cost remains high and certain populations of patients remain difficult to treat. Glecaprevir (GLE, an NS3/4A protease inhibitor) and pibrentasvir (PIB, NS5A inhibitor) were recently approved as a FDC therapy for HCV, and have expanded reach, reduced cost, and in certain populations, reduced HCV treatment duration. GLE/PIB is effective across all genotypes, and has been shown to be effective in HIV-infected patients, patients with chronic kidney disease, and Child-Pugh A-compensated cirrhosis. GLE/PIB is also effective for a shortened duration of 8 weeks in treatment-naive non-cirrhotic patients.
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30
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Øvrehus ALH, Krarup H, Birkemose I, Holm DK, Mössner B, Ernst A, Christensen PB. Four weeks of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir and ribavirin with or without pegylated interferon for chronic hepatitis C in non-cirrhotic people who inject drugs. A randomized trial. J Hepatol 2018; 68:840-842. [PMID: 29223370 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2017.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne L H Øvrehus
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University Hospital, Denmark.
| | - Henrik Krarup
- Section of Molecular Diagnostics and Clinical Biochemistry, Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Inge Birkemose
- Odense Drug Treatment Center, Odense Municipality, Denmark
| | - Dorte K Holm
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Belinda Mössner
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Anja Ernst
- Section of Molecular Diagnostics and Clinical Biochemistry, Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir is a fixed-dose combination regimen of a new generation NS3/4A inhibitor and an NS5A inhibitor with potent antiviral activity against all hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes. This regimen offers a shorter course of therapy (8 weeks) for selected patients regardless of genotype and has demonstrated high virological efficacy for retreatment of individuals who previously failed an NS5A containing regimen. Glecaprevir and pibrentasvir are minimally excreted by the kidneys; thus this regimen can safely be used in individuals with severe chronic kidney disease (CKD), including those undergoing hemodialysis. Areas covered: This review covers the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, clinical applications, efficacy, and safety profile of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir. It also covers key phase 2 and 3 clinical trials that led to licensure of this regimen. Expert opinion: Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir is the latest antiviral regimen licensed in the United States for treatment of HCV infection. Although several other direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) are currently available, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir has some unique characteristics that expand treatment options for HCV infection, including patients with comorbidities such as advanced stage CKD or prior treatment failure to antiviral regimens containing other DAAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres F Carrion
- a Director of Hepatology, Assistant Professor of Medicine , Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso , El Paso , TX , USA
| | - Paul Martin
- b Chief, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Professor of Medicine , University of Miami Miller School of Medicine , Miami , FL , USA
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Borgia G, Maraolo AE, Nappa S, Gentile I, Buonomo AR. NS5B polymerase inhibitors in phase II clinical trials for HCV infection. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2017; 27:243-250. [PMID: 29271672 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2018.1420780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection might be the first chronic viral disease to be eradicated without the introduction of a prophylactic vaccine. This is essentially due to therapeutic revolution encapsulated by the advent of direct-acting antivirals (DAA) agents, whose efficacy, safety and tolerability (all oral regimens) have made the previous standard of care (interferon plus ribavirin) a vestige of the past. The new regimens achieve very high response rates and have an excellent tolerability profile. Notwithstanding, the first wave of DAAs has brought over problems regarding costs and failures which warrant research and development of further antiviral molecules. AREAS COVERED This review outlines the main clinical data concerning novel NS5B polymerase inhibitors currently in pipeline, focusing on the ones that have completed a phase 2 trial. EXPERT OPINION NS5B is one the main viral target for anti-HCV therapy. The large majority of the approved regimens so far include a NS5B inhibitor. Although not frequently, failure related to mutations can occur. The potential place in therapy in the mid-term of new NS5B inhibitors may be, in the first instance, the role of backbone in salvage combinations with DAAs of other classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmo Borgia
- a Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery , University of Naples "Federico II" , Naples , Italy
| | - Alberto Enrico Maraolo
- a Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery , University of Naples "Federico II" , Naples , Italy
| | - Salvatore Nappa
- a Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery , University of Naples "Federico II" , Naples , Italy
| | - Ivan Gentile
- a Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery , University of Naples "Federico II" , Naples , Italy
| | - Antonio Riccardo Buonomo
- a Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery , University of Naples "Federico II" , Naples , Italy
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Emmanuel B, Wilson EM, O'Brien TR, Kottilil S, Lau G. Shortening the duration of therapy for chronic hepatitis C infection. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 2:832-836. [PMID: 28802815 PMCID: PMC5737004 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(17)30053-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Combination direct-acting antiviral therapy of 8-24 weeks is highly effective for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection. However, shortening the treatment duration to less than 8 weeks could potentially reduce overall treatment costs and improve adherence. Here we explore the arguments for and against the development of short-duration regimens and existing data on treatment for 6 weeks or less among patients with chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 1 infection. Additionally, we identify potential predictors of response to short-course combination therapies with direct-acting antiviral drugs that might be explored in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Emmanuel
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eleanor M Wilson
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Thomas R O'Brien
- Infections and Immunoepidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - George Lau
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Humanity and Health Medical Centre, Hong Kong, China
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Abutaleb A, Kottilil S. Vedroprevir in the management of hepatitis C virus infection. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2017; 26:1399-1402. [PMID: 29053394 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2017.1395412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a chronic infection of the liver and the leading cause of liver failure and liver transplantation worldwide. While prior HCV therapies were prolonged and had variable success rates, the advent of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has dramatically improved HCV therapy with minimal side effects, shorter treatment durations, and higher cure rates. Areas covered: In this paper, we review the literature discussing the use of Vedroprevir (GS-9451) in treatment of HCV in a variety of patient populations. Articles accessible on MEDLINE/PubMed were reviewed to provide context on chemistry, pharmacology, and efficacy of Vedroprevir in HCV treatment. Expert opinion: Vedroprevir is highly effective in reducing treatment duration in combination with other DAAs without compromising treatment success rates. GS-9451 is insufficient as HCV monotherapy due to low threshold for development of high level of resistance and must be combined with other DAAs to achieve sustained virologic response (SVR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameer Abutaleb
- a Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology , University of Maryland School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Shyamasundaran Kottilil
- a Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology , University of Maryland School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
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Leventer-Roberts M, Hammerman A, Brufman I, Hoshen M, Braun M, Ashur Y, Lieberman N, Balicer R. Effectiveness of dasabuvir/ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir for hepatitis C virus in clinical practice: A population-based observational study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176858. [PMID: 28686590 PMCID: PMC5501432 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Direct acting antivirals for hepatitis C virus have shown dramatic results in clinical trials. However, their effectiveness has yet to be demonstrated within observational cohorts which lack exclusion criteria found in randomized control trials. Aim To determine the effectiveness of dasabuvir/ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir in achieving sustained virological response. Methods Retrospective observational cohort study of all Clalit Health Services members with hepatitis C virus genotype 1 who were dispensed dasabuvir/ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir from January 1, 2015 to-November 31, 2015. Results There were 564 participants during the study period. The average age was 61.9 years, 52.0% were male, and 61.5% were born Eastern/Central Europe or Central Asia. The prevalence of diabetes was 31.7% and 70.3% were overweight/obese. Cirrhosis was present in 41.0% of participants, of whom 52.8% had stage 4 fibrosis. Of the cohort, 416 (74.8%) had follow-up viral load testing at 10 or more weeks after the end of treatment. We report a sustained virological response of 98.8% among those tested. Conclusions Treatment with dasabuvir/ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir demonstrated a near universal effectiveness in achieving a sustained virological response among HCV patients in a large cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Leventer-Roberts
- Clalit Research Institute, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ariel Hammerman
- Chief Physician's Office, Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | - Marius Braun
- Chief Physician's Office, Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Liver Unit, Beilinson Hospital, Petach Tikva, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yaffa Ashur
- Hepatology, Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Nicky Lieberman
- Community Medicine Division, Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ran Balicer
- Clalit Research Institute, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Chief Physician's Office, Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University, Be'er Sheva, Israel
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A fixed-dose combination of ledipasvir and sofosbuvir ± ribavirin for treatment of hepatitis C infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-017-0401-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Sulkowski MS, Flamm S, Kayali Z, Lawitz EJ, Kwo P, McPhee F, Torbeyns A, Hughes EA, Swenson ES, Yin PD, Linaberry M. Short-duration treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus with daclatasvir, asunaprevir, beclabuvir and sofosbuvir (FOURward study). Liver Int 2017; 37:836-842. [PMID: 27943563 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The phase 2, FOURward study (NCT02175966) investigated short-duration therapy (4/6 weeks) with four direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) with distinct mechanisms of action in patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype-1. METHODS Non-cirrhotic patients were randomized 1:1 to DCV-TRIO (fixed-dose daclatasvir 30 mg, asunaprevir 200 mg and beclabuvir 75 mg) twice-daily + sofosbuvir 400 mg once-daily for 4 or 6 weeks. The primary endpoint was sustained virological response at post-treatment Week 12 (SVR12). Patients without SVR12 were offered retreatment based on the DAA resistance profile at failure; patients with resistance to ≤1 DCV-TRIO component received DCV-TRIO + RBV for 12 weeks. RESULTS Twenty-eight patients with HCV genotype-1 were enrolled; 79% had genotype-1a infection and median baseline HCV-RNA levels were high (9 × 106 IU/mL). Most patients had undetectable HCV-RNA at end of treatment (96% [n=27/28]); however, relapse occurred in 77% (n=10/13) and 43% (n=6/14) treated for 4 and 6 weeks, leading to SVR12 rates of 29% (n=4/14) and 57% (n=8/14) respectively. SVR12 was higher in patients with lower baseline HCV-RNA (<2 million IU/mL, 71% [n=5/7]; ≥2 million IU/mL, 33% [n=7/21]). None of the 16 non-SVR12 patients had NS3 or NS5B resistance-associated substitutions (RAS) detected at failure. All 15 patients retreated with DCV-TRIO + RBV for 12 weeks achieved SVR12. All regimens were well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS Short-duration treatment with four DAAs with distinct mechanisms of action was insufficient for most patients with genotype-1 infection and high baseline viraemia. Non-SVR12 was not associated with emergence of NS3 or NS5B RAS and retreatment with DCV-TRIO + RBV for 12 weeks led to SVR in all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Sulkowski
- Viral Hepatitis Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Steve Flamm
- Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Zeid Kayali
- Inland Empire Liver Foundation, Rialto, CA, USA
| | - Eric J Lawitz
- The Texas Liver Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Paul Kwo
- Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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Shahid I, AlMalki WH, Hassan S, Hafeez MH. Real-world challenges for hepatitis C virus medications: a critical overview. Crit Rev Microbiol 2017; 44:143-160. [PMID: 28539069 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2017.1329277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
From 2010, the landscape of hepatitis C therapeutics has been changed rapidly, and today we are standing at a cusp of a pharmacological revolution where highly effective and interferon (IFN)-free direct acting antivirals (DAAs) are already on the market. Such treatment paradigms attain 90-95% sustained virologic response (SVR; undetectable viral load at week 12 or 24 at the end of therapy) rates in treated individuals compared to 50-70% with treatment completion of dual-therapy-pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin (RBV). As the major goal now for the hepatologists, clinicians, physicians, and health care workers is likely to eradicate hepatitis C infection in parallel to treatment, the demand is for a one-size-fits-all pill that could be prescribed beyond the limitations of hepatitis C genotype, viral load, previous treatment history, advanced hepatic manifestations (fibrosis, cirrhosis) and antiviral drug resistance. Although the new treatment strategies have shown high cure rates in clinical trials, such treatment paradigms are posing dilemmas too in real-world clinical practice. Therapy cost, treatment access to low and middle-income countries, treatment-emergent adverse events, lack of effective viral screening and disease progression simulation models are potential challenges in this prospect. This review article deeply overviews the challenges encountered while surmounting the burden of hepatitis C around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Shahid
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy , Umm Al Qura University , Al-Abidiyah , Makkah , Saudi Arabia.,c Applied and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology , University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Waleed Hassan AlMalki
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy , Umm Al Qura University , Al-Abidiyah , Makkah , Saudi Arabia
| | - Sajida Hassan
- b Viral Hepatitis Program, Laboratory of Medicine , University of Washington , Seattle , WA , USA.,c Applied and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology , University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hassan Hafeez
- d Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fatima Memorial College of Medicine and Dentistry , Shadman , Lahore , Pakistan
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Lamoury FMJ, Soker A, Martinez D, Hajarizadeh B, Cunningham EB, Cunningham P, Bruggmann P, Foster GR, Dalgard O, Backmund M, Conway B, Robaeys G, Swan T, Cloherty G, Marks P, Grebely J, Dore GJ, Applegate TL. Hepatitis C virus core antigen: A simplified treatment monitoring tool, including for post-treatment relapse. J Clin Virol 2017; 92:32-38. [PMID: 28521211 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2017.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Simple, affordable diagnostic tools are essential to facilitate global hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination efforts. OBJECTIVES This study evaluated the clinical performance of core antigen (HCVcAg) assay from plasma samples to monitor HCV treatment efficacy and HCV viral recurrence. STUDY DESIGN Plasma samples from a study of response-guided pegylated-interferon/ribavirin therapy for people who inject drugs with chronic HCV genotype 2/3 infection were assessed for HCV RNA (AmpliPrep/COBAS Taqman assay, Roche) and HCVcAg (ARCHITECT HCV Ag, Abbott Diagnostics) during and after therapy. The sensitivity and specificity of the HCVcAg assay was compared to the HCV RNA assay (gold standard). RESULTS A total of 335 samples from 92 enrolled participants were assessed (mean 4 time-points per participant). At baseline, end of treatment response (ETR) and sustained virological response (SVR) visits, the sensitivity of the HCVcAg assay with quantifiable HCV RNA threshold was 94% (95% CI: 88%, 98%), 56% (21%, 86%) and 100%, respectively. The specificity was between 98 to 100% for all time-points assessed. HCVcAg accurately detected all six participants with viral recurrence, demonstrating 100% sensitivity and specificity. One participant with detectable (non-quantifiable) HCV RNA and non-reactive HCVcAg at SVR12 subsequently cleared HCV RNA at SVR24. CONCLUSIONS HCVcAg demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for detection of pre-treatment and post-treatment viraemia. This study indicates that confirmation of active HCV infection, including recurrent viraemia, by HCVcAg is possible. Reduced on-treatment sensitivity of HCVcAg may be a clinical advantage given the moves toward simplification of monitoring schedules.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Philip Cunningham
- St. Vincent's Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Graham R Foster
- Queen Mary University of London, Institute of Cell and Molecular Science, London, UK
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Markus Backmund
- Department of Addiction Medicine, Munich-Schwabing Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Brian Conway
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Geert Robaeys
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Schiepse, Belgium; Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Limburg Clinical Research Program, Belgium; Department of Hepatology UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tracy Swan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Schiepse, Belgium
| | | | - Pip Marks
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Current therapy for chronic hepatitis C: The role of direct-acting antivirals. Antiviral Res 2017; 142:83-122. [PMID: 28238877 PMCID: PMC7172984 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2017.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
One of the most exciting developments in antiviral research has been the discovery of the direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) that effectively cure chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. Based on more than 100 clinical trials and real-world studies, we provide a comprehensive overview of FDA-approved therapies and newly discovered anti-HCV agents with a special focus on drug efficacy, mechanisms of action, and safety. We show that HCV drug development has advanced in multiple aspects: (i) interferon-based regimens were replaced by interferon-free regimens; (ii) genotype-specific drugs evolved to drugs for all HCV genotypes; (iii) therapies based upon multiple pills per day were simplified to a single pill per day; (iv) drug potency increased from moderate (∼60%) to high (>90%) levels of sustained virologic responses; (v) treatment durations were shortened from 48 to 12 or 8 weeks; and (vi) therapies could be administered orally regardless of prior treatment history and cirrhotic status. However, despite these remarkable achievements made in HCV drug discovery, challenges remain in the management of difficult-to-treat patients. HCV genotype-specific drugs evolve to pan-genotypic drugs. Drug potency increases from moderate (∼60%) to high (>90%) levels of sustained virologic response. Treatment durations are shortened from a 48-week to 12-week or 8-week period. HCV therapies based upon multiple pills per day are simplified to a single pill per day. HCV therapies are administered orally regardless of prior treatment history and cirrhotic status.
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van der Ree MH, de Vree JM, Stelma F, Willemse S, van der Valk M, Rietdijk S, Molenkamp R, Schinkel J, van Nuenen AC, Beuers U, Hadi S, Harbers M, van der Veer E, Liu K, Grundy J, Patick AK, Pavlicek A, Blem J, Huang M, Grint P, Neben S, Gibson NW, Kootstra NA, Reesink HW. Safety, tolerability, and antiviral effect of RG-101 in patients with chronic hepatitis C: a phase 1B, double-blind, randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2017; 389:709-717. [PMID: 28087069 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(16)31715-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND miR-122 is an important host factor for hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and antiviral effect of a single dose of RG-101, a hepatocyte targeted N-acetylgalactosamine conjugated oligonucleotide that antagonises miR-122, in patients with chronic HCV infection with various genotypes. METHODS In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre, phase 1B study, patients were randomly assigned to RG-101 or placebo (7:1). We enrolled men and postmenopausal or hysterectomised women (aged 18-65 years) with chronic HCV genotype 1, 3, or 4 infection diagnosed at least 24 weeks before screening who were either treatment naive to or relapsed after interferon-α based therapy. Patients with co-infection (hepatitis B virus or HIV infection), evidence of decompensated liver disease, or a history of hepatocellular carcinoma were excluded. Randomisation was done by an independent, unblinded, statistician using the SAS procedure Proc Plan. The first cohort received one subcutaneous injection of 2 mg/kg RG-101 or placebo; the second cohort received one subcutaneous injection of 4 mg/kg or placebo. Patients were followed up for 8 weeks (all patients) and up to 76 weeks (patients with no viral rebound and excluding those who were randomised to the placebo group) after randomisation. The primary objective was safety and tolerability of RG-101. This trial was registered with EudraCT, number 2013-002978-49. FINDINGS Between June 4, 2014, and Oct 27, 2014, we enrolled 32 patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 (n=16), 3 (n=10), or 4 (n=6) infections. In the first cohort, 14 patients were randomly assigned to receive 2 mg/kg RG-101 and two patients were randomly assigned to receive placebo, and in the second cohort, 14 patients were randomly assigned to receive 4 mg/kg RG-101 and two patients were randomly assigned to receive placebo. Overall, 26 of the 28 patients dosed with RG-101 reported at least one treatment-related adverse event. At week 4, the median viral load reduction from baseline was 4·42 (IQR 3·23-5·00) and 5·07 (4·19-5·35) log10 IU/mL in patients dosed with 2 mg/kg RG-101 or 4 mg/kg RG-101. Three patients had undetectable HCV RNA levels 76 weeks after a single dose of RG-101. Viral rebound at or before week 12 was associated with the appearance of resistance associated substitutions in miR-122 binding regions in the 5' UTR of the HCV genome. INTERPRETATION This study showed that one administration of 2 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg RG-101, a hepatocyte targeted N-acetylgalactosamine conjugated anti-miR-122 oligonucleotide, was well tolerated and resulted in substantial viral load reduction in all treated patients within 4 weeks, and sustained virological response in three patients for 76 weeks. FUNDING Regulus Therapeutics, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike H van der Ree
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J Marleen de Vree
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Femke Stelma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sophie Willemse
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Center for Infection and Immunity Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Svend Rietdijk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Oosterpark, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Richard Molenkamp
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Clinical Virology Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Clinical Virology Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ad C van Nuenen
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Salah Hadi
- PRA Health Sciences, Zuidlaren, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Kai Liu
- Regulus Therapeutics, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul Grint
- Regulus Therapeutics, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Neeltje A Kootstra
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Hendrik W Reesink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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Lawitz E, Poordad F, Gutierrez JA, Wells JT, Landaverde CE, Evans B, Howe A, Huang HC, Li JJ, Hwang P, Dutko FJ, Robertson M, Wahl J, Barr E, Haber B. Short-duration treatment with elbasvir/grazoprevir and sofosbuvir for hepatitis C: A randomized trial. Hepatology 2017; 65:439-450. [PMID: 27770561 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) represent the standard of care for patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Combining DAAs with different mechanisms may allow for shorter treatment durations that are effective across multiple genotypes. The aim of the C-SWIFT study was to identify the minimum effective treatment duration across multiple genotypes. C-SWIFT was an open-label, single-center trial in treatment-naïve patients with chronic HCV genotype (GT)1 or 3 infection. All patients received elbasvir (EBR) 50 mg/grazoprevir (GZR) 100 mg with sofosbuvir (SOF) 400 mg for 4-12 weeks. Patients with GT1 infection who failed therapy were eligible for retreatment with EBR/GZR+SOF and ribavirin for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was sustained virological response [SVR]12 (SVR of HCV RNA <15 IU/mL 12 weeks after the end of therapy). Rates of SVR12 were 32% (10 of 31) and 87% (26 of 30) in patients without cirrhosis with GT1 infection treated for 4 and 6 weeks and 80% (16 of 20) and 81% (17 of 21) in GT1-infected patients with cirrhosis treated for 6 and 8 weeks. Among GT3-infected patients without cirrhosis, SVR12 was 93% (14 of 15) and 100% (14 of 14) after 8 and 12 weeks. SVR12 in GT3-infected patients with cirrhosis was 83% (10 of 12) after 12 weeks of treatment. Twenty-three GT1-infected patients who relapsed following initial treatment completed retreatment; all achieved SVR12. In the initial treatment phase, there was one serious adverse event of pneumonia, which led to treatment discontinuation, and during retreatment, 1 patient discontinued ribavirin because of pruritus. CONCLUSION Data from this study support the use of 8-week treatment regimens that maintain high efficacy, even for patients with HCV GT3 infection. Retreatment of patients who failed short-duration therapy was achieved through extended treatment duration and addition of ribavirin. (Hepatology 2017;65:439-450).
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Lawitz
- Texas Liver Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX
| | - Fred Poordad
- Texas Liver Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX
| | - Julio A Gutierrez
- Texas Liver Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX
| | - Jennifer T Wells
- Texas Liver Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX
| | - Carmen E Landaverde
- Texas Liver Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX
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Wilson EM, Rosenthal ES, Kattakuzhy S, Tang L, Kottilil S. Clinical Laboratory Testing in the Era of Directly Acting Antiviral Therapies for Hepatitis C. Clin Microbiol Rev 2017; 30:23-42. [PMID: 27795306 PMCID: PMC5217793 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00037-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Directly acting antiviral (DAA) combination therapies for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are highly effective, but treatment decisions remain complex. Laboratory testing is important to evaluate a range of viral, host, and pharmacological factors when considering HCV treatment, and patients must be monitored during and after therapy for safety and to assess the viral response. In this review, we discuss the laboratory tests relevant for the treatment of HCV infection in the era of DAA therapy, grouped according to viral and host factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor M Wilson
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Critical Care Medicine Department of the NIH Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Elana S Rosenthal
- Critical Care Medicine Department of the NIH Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sarah Kattakuzhy
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Critical Care Medicine Department of the NIH Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Lydia Tang
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Naggie S, Holland DP, Sulkowski MS, Thomas DL. Hepatitis C Virus Postexposure Prophylaxis in the Healthcare Worker: Why Direct-Acting Antivirals Don't Change a Thing. Clin Infect Dis 2017; 64:92-99. [PMID: 27682067 PMCID: PMC5159603 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciw656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, 380 000-400 000 occupational exposures to blood-borne pathogens occur annually in the United States. The management for occupational HIV or hepatitis B virus exposures includes postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) when necessary; however, PEP is not recommended for hepatitis C virus (HCV) exposures. Recent approval of HCV direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has renewed discussions as to whether these therapies could be used to prevent infection after exposure. There are no published studies addressing this question, but the prescribing of DAAs for PEP has been reported. We will discuss the differences in transmission of the 3 most common blood-borne pathogens, the natural history of early HCV infection, and the scientific rationale for PEP. In particular, we will discuss how the low feasibility of conducting an adequately powered clinical trial of DAA use for PEP and the low cost-effectiveness of such an intervention is not supportive of targeting limited resources for such use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Naggie
- Duke Clinical Research Institute
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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Lee R, Kottilil S, Wilson E. Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir: a pangenotypic drug to simplify HCV therapy. Hepatol Int 2016; 11:161-170. [PMID: 27928718 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-016-9776-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) has evolved rapidly from an interferon based regimen of modest efficacy with significant adverse events to a well-tolerated, highly effective all-oral directly acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. Although significant improvement in sustained virologic responses (SVR) has been reported with new DAAs for genotypes 1 and 4, effective treatments for genotype 3 have been lacking, and a single pill that can yield high SVR rates against HCV genotypes 1-6 has not been available until now. Sofosbuvir (a pangenotypic NS5B inhibitor) and velpatasvir (a pangenotypic NS5A inhibitor) were recently approved in a fixed-dose combination pill. The availability of this pangenotypic pill holds promise for providing highly effective treatment with minimal laboratory testing for chronic HCV worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lee
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Eleanor Wilson
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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Gane EJ, Kowdley KV, Pound D, Stedman CAM, Davis M, Etzkorn K, Gordon SC, Bernstein D, Everson G, Rodriguez-Torres M, Tsai N, Khalid O, Yang JC, Lu S, Dvory-Sobol H, Stamm LM, Brainard DM, McHutchison JG, Tong M, Chung RT, Beavers K, Poulos JE, Kwo PY, Nguyen MH. Efficacy of Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir, and GS-9857 in Patients With Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 2, 3, 4, or 6 Infections in an Open-Label, Phase 2 Trial. Gastroenterology 2016; 151:902-909. [PMID: 27486033 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Studies are needed to determine the optimal regimen for patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 2, 3, 4, or 6 infections whose prior course of antiviral therapy has failed, and the feasibility of shortening treatment duration. We performed a phase 2 study to determine the efficacy and safety of the combination of the nucleotide polymerase inhibitor sofosbuvir, the NS5A inhibitor velpatasvir, and the NS3/4A protease inhibitor GS-9857 in these patients. METHODS We performed a multicenter, open-label trial at 32 sites in the United States and 2 sites in New Zealand from March 3, 2015 to April 27, 2015. Our study included 128 treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced patients (1 with HCV genotype 1b; 33 with HCV genotype 2; 74 with HCV genotype 3; 17 with genotype HCV 4; and 3 with HCV genotype 6), with or without compensated cirrhosis. All patients received sofosbuvir-velpatasvir (400 mg/100 mg fixed-dose combination tablet) and GS-9857 (100 mg) once daily for 6-12 weeks. The primary end point was sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12). RESULTS After 6 weeks of treatment, SVR12s were achieved by 88% of treatment-naïve patients without cirrhosis (29 of 33; 95% confidence interval, 72%-97%). After 8 weeks of treatment, SVR12s were achieved by 93% of treatment-naïve patients with cirrhosis (28 of 30; 95% CI, 78%-99%). After 12 weeks of treatment, SVR12s were achieved by all treatment-experienced patients without cirrhosis (36 of 36; 95% CI, 90%-100%) and 97% of treatment-experienced patients with cirrhosis (28 of 29; 95% CI, 82%-100%). The most common adverse events were headache, diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea. Three patients (1%) discontinued treatment due to adverse events. CONCLUSIONS In a phase 2 open-label trial, we found sofosbuvir-velpatasvir plus GS-9857 (8 weeks in treatment-naïve patients or 12 weeks in treatment-experienced patients) to be safe and effective for patients with HCV genotype 2, 3, 4, or 6 infections, with or without compensated cirrhosis. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02378961.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Pound
- Indianapolis Gastroenterology Research Foundation, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | - Mitchell Davis
- Digestive CARE-South Florida Center of Gastroenterology, Wellington, Florida
| | - Kyle Etzkorn
- Borland-Groover Clinic, Jacksonville, Mississippi
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Omer Khalid
- Digestive Health Specialists, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | | | - Sophia Lu
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, California
| | | | | | | | | | - Myron Tong
- Huntington Medical Research Institutes Liver Center, Pasadena, California
| | | | - Kimberly Beavers
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - John E Poulos
- Cumberland Research Associates, LLC, Fayetteville, Georgia
| | - Paul Y Kwo
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana
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Gane EJ, Schwabe C, Hyland RH, Yang Y, Svarovskaia E, Stamm LM, Brainard DM, McHutchison JG, Stedman CA. Efficacy of the Combination of Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir, and the NS3/4A Protease Inhibitor GS-9857 in Treatment-Naïve or Previously Treated Patients With Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1 or 3 Infections. Gastroenterology 2016; 151:448-456.e1. [PMID: 27240903 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS We performed a phase 2 trial of the efficacy and safety of 4, 6, and 8 weeks of sofosbuvir, given in combination with the NS5A inhibitor velpatasvir and the NS3/4A protease inhibitor GS-9857, in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. METHODS We enrolled 161 treatment-naïve or previously treated patients infected with HCV genotypes 1 or 3 with or without compensated cirrhosis at 2 centers in New Zealand, from September 2014 through March 2015. All patients received sofosbuvir (400 mg) and velpatasvir (100 mg) plus GS-9857 (100 mg) once daily. The primary efficacy end point was sustained virologic response at 12 weeks after therapy (SVR12). The duration of therapy was determined by baseline patient characteristics: 4 or 6 weeks for treatment-naïve patients without cirrhosis, 6 weeks for treatment-naïve patients with cirrhosis, and 6 or 8 weeks for treatment-experienced patients with or without cirrhosis. RESULTS Four weeks of sofosbuvir, velpatasvir, and GS-9857 produced an SVR12 in 4 of 15 (27%) treatment-naïve patients with HCV genotype 1 without cirrhosis. Six weeks of this combination produced a SVR12 in 14 of 15 (93%) treatment-naïve patients with HCV genotype 1 without cirrhosis, in 13 of 15 (87%) treatment-naïve genotype 1 patients with cirrhosis, in 15 of 18 (83%) treatment-naïve patients with HCV genotype 3 with cirrhosis, and in 20 of 30 (67%) patients with HCV genotype 1 who had failed an all-oral regimen of 2 or more direct-acting antiviral agents. Eight weeks of the drug combination produced an SVR12 in 17 of 17 (100%) patients with HCV genotype 1, in 19 of 19 (100%) patients with HCV genotype 3 and cirrhosis who had failed pegylated interferon plus ribavirin, in 25 of 28 (89%) patients with HCV genotype 1 who had failed protease inhibitor-based triple therapy, and in 4 of 4 (100%) patients with HCV genotype 3 who had failed an all-oral regimen of ≥2 direct-acting antiviral agents. The most common reported adverse events were headache, nausea, and fatigue. CONCLUSIONS Eight weeks of treatment with the combination of sofosbuvir, velpatasvir, and GS-9857 produced an SVR12 in most treatment-naïve or previously treated patients with HCV genotype 1 or 3 infections, including those with compensated cirrhosis. ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT02202980.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Gane
- New Zealand Liver Transplant Unit, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | | | | | - Yin Yang
- Gilead Sciences, Inc, Foster City, California
| | | | | | | | | | - Catherine A Stedman
- Gastroenterology Department, Christchurch Hospital, and University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Yakoot M, Abdo AM, Yousry A, Helmy S. Very rapid virologic response and early HCV response kinetics, as quick measures to compare efficacy and guide a personalized response-guided therapy. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2016; 10:2659-67. [PMID: 27601883 PMCID: PMC5003574 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s111496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background This is the second and final report for our study designed to compare two generic sofosbuvir products for the degree and speed of virologic response to a dual anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment protocol. We aimed to test the applicability of the early virus response kinetics and the very rapid virologic response (vRVR) rate as quick outcome measures for accelerated comparative efficacy studies and as a foundation for a personalized response-guided therapy. Methods Fifty eligible chronic HCV patients were randomized to either one of two generic sofosbuvir products (Gratisovir or Grateziano) at a daily dose of one 400 mg tablet plus a weight-based ribavirin dose. Data were compared between the groups for early virus response kinetics and vRVR rates in relation to the rates of final sustained virologic response at week 12 posttreatment (SVR12). Results The Log10 transformed virus load (Log polymerase chain reaction) curves showed fairly similar rapid decline during the first 2 weeks, with no significant difference between the groups at four analysis points throughout the study by repeated-measures factorial analysis of variance test (P=0.48). The SVR12 rates were 96% (95% confidence interval, 79.6%–99.9%) in Gratisovir group (24/25) and 95.7% (95% confidence interval, 78%–99.9%) in Grateziano group (22/23). There was no statistically significant difference found by exact test (P>0.999). There was a significant association between the vRVR and the SVR12, with 100% positive predictive value (38/38 of those who had vRVR, achieved a final SVR12) and 82.6% sensitivity (among the total 46 with SVR12, 38 were having vRVR). Conclusion We can conclude from our study that the early HCV response kinetics and the vRVR rates could be used as sensitive quick markers for efficacy (with a very high positive predictive value for SVR12), based on our accelerated comparative efficacy research model. This might open the way for new models of accelerated equivalence efficacy studies along with the bioequivalence kinetics studies to test a generic drug against a reference. Also, the early response kinetics and the vRVR might be used as qualifiers for a personalized course of treatment. This could shorten unnecessarily long treatment courses in rapid responders and might help to avoid relapses in slow responders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alaa M Abdo
- Tropical Medicine and Hepatology Department, Alexandria Faculty of Medicine
| | - Ahmed Yousry
- Microbiology Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University; Mabarat Asafra Labs
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