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Maponga TG, McNaughton AL, Campbell C, de Cesare M, Mokaya J, Lumley SF, Bonsall D, Ip CL, Chai H, Van Rensburg C, Glashoff RH, Waddilove E, Preiser W, Blackard JT, Ansari MA, Kramvis A, Andersson MI, Matthews PC. A putative hepatitis B virus sequence motif associated with hepatocellular carcinoma in South African adults. Ann Hepatol 2025; 30:101763. [PMID: 39986372 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2024.101763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 09/27/2024] [Accepted: 11/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2025]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In African populations, HCC frequently presents at an advanced stage with poor outcomes. We applied whole genome sequencing (WGS) to compare HBV genomes in individuals with and without HCC. MATERIALS AND METHODS We identified adults with HBV infection, with and without complicating HCC, in Cape Town, South Africa. We generated HBV WGS using pan-genotypic probe-based enrichment followed by Illumina sequencing. RESULTS Compared to the non-HCC group, HCC patients were more likely to be male (p < 0.0001), older (p = 0.01), HIV-negative (p = 0.006), and have higher HBV viral loads (p < 0.0001). Among 19 HCC and 12 non-HCC patients for whom WGS was obtained, genotype A dominated (74 %), of which 96 % were subgenotype A1. PreS2 deletions (Δ38-55) were enriched in HBV sequences from HCC patients (n = 7). The sequence motif most strongly associated with HCC comprised either a deletion or polymorphism at site T53 in PreS2 - collectively coined 'non-T53' - together with a basal core promoter (BCP) mutation G1764A (AUROC = 0.79). CONCLUSIONS In this setting, HBV sequence polymorphisms and deletions are associated with HCC, and 'non-T53 + G1764A' represents a putative signature motif for HCC. Additional investigations are needed to disaggregate the impact of other demographic, clinical, and environmental influences, to ascertain the extent to which viral polymorphisms contribute to oncogenesis, and to determine whether HBV sequence is a useful biomarker for HCC risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongai G Maponga
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa; National Health Laboratory Service, Tygerberg Business Unit, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Cori Campbell
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Jolynne Mokaya
- Parasites and Microbes, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
| | - Sheila F Lumley
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - David Bonsall
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; Big Data Institute, Old Road, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Camilla Lc Ip
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Haiting Chai
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christo Van Rensburg
- Division of Gastroenterology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Richard H Glashoff
- National Health Laboratory Service, Tygerberg Business Unit, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa; Immunology Unit, Division of Medical Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Wolfgang Preiser
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa; National Health Laboratory Service, Tygerberg Business Unit, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jason T Blackard
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - M Azim Ansari
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193 Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Monique I Andersson
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa; Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Philippa C Matthews
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospital, Euston Road, London NW1 2BU, UK.
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Maquessene O, Laurindo O, Chambal L, Ismael N, Mabunda N. Serological and Molecular Characterization of the Hepatitis B Virus in Blood Donors in Maputo City, Mozambique. Viruses 2025; 17:94. [PMID: 39861883 PMCID: PMC11768953 DOI: 10.3390/v17010094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2024] [Revised: 01/06/2025] [Accepted: 01/09/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major public health concern responsible for hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. In Mozambique, HBsAg prevalence is high and endemic, and despite the strategies to mitigate the spread of the disease, the HCC incidence is still high and one of the highest in the world. There is still limited data on the serological profile and molecular epidemiology of HBV in Mozambique given the burden of this disease. In this study, we aimed to describe the serological and molecular characterization of HBV among blood donors. We conducted a cross-sectional survey from November 2014 to October 2015 at the Blood Bank of the Hospital Central de Maputo. Serological testing and molecular testing were performed. The frequency of HBV infection was estimated at 4.4% and was higher among males (79.1%), individuals aged 25-39 years (55.2%), and replacement donors (89.6%). The median viral load of HBV-positive blood donors was 1288.5 IU/mL, and 43.8% had a viral load higher than 2000 IU/mL. Most of the sequenced samples (94.3%) belonged to subgenotype A1. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing surveillance to inform effective HBV control strategies and present evidence about the burden of HBV among blood donors, which definitely requires attention, and clinical blood banks in Mozambique and in similar settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Maquessene
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde of Mozambique, EN1, Bairro da Vila, Marracuene 3943, Mozambique; (O.M.); (O.L.); (N.I.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Avenida Salvador Allende 1113, Maputo City 1100, Mozambique;
| | - Osvaldo Laurindo
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde of Mozambique, EN1, Bairro da Vila, Marracuene 3943, Mozambique; (O.M.); (O.L.); (N.I.)
| | - Lúcia Chambal
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Avenida Salvador Allende 1113, Maputo City 1100, Mozambique;
- Hospital Central de Maputo, Avenida Agostinho Neto 164, Maputo City 1100, Mozambique
| | - Nalia Ismael
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde of Mozambique, EN1, Bairro da Vila, Marracuene 3943, Mozambique; (O.M.); (O.L.); (N.I.)
| | - Nédio Mabunda
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde of Mozambique, EN1, Bairro da Vila, Marracuene 3943, Mozambique; (O.M.); (O.L.); (N.I.)
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Zhang M, Mouzannar K, Zhang Z, Teraoka Y, Piotrowski J, Ishida Y, Tateno-Mukaidani C, Saito T, Abe-Chayama H, Chayama K, Liang TJ. Hepatitis B virus genotypes A1 and A2 have distinct replication phenotypes due to polymorphisms in the HBx gene. PLoS Pathog 2025; 21:e1012803. [PMID: 39787208 PMCID: PMC11717313 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 12/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2025] Open
Abstract
HBV genotype A has two major subtypes, A1 (commonly in Africa) and A2 (commonly in Europe) with only 4% nucleotide differences. Individuals infected with these two subtypes appear to have different clinical manifestations and virologic features. Whether such a difference results from the virus or host has not been established. Using HBV generated from molecule clones of subtypes A1 and A2 in cell culture (HBVcc), we demonstrate that HBVcc of subtypes A1 and A2 can be passaged in vitro and in vivo and respond equally well to human IFN-α treatment. HBVcc passaged in human liver chimeric mice (HBVmp) infected human hepatocytes more efficiently than that of the original HBVcc. Subtype A2 showed a much higher viral replication level than that of subtype A1. Mechanistic investigations using constructs with chimeric A1/A2 sequences and specific mutations indicated that subtype A2 has an inherently higher replication phenotype due to specific polymorphisms in the HBx gene resulting in amino acid variations. Studies of HBx expression demonstrated that A1 HBx is expressed at a much lower level than that of A2 HBx. Mutagenesis studies identified two HBx amino acid variations responsible for the observed phenotypic difference. Using AlphaFold2, we generated structural models of HBx proteins of A1 and A2. Superposition of the two models reveal that the overall structural motifs are similarly aligned, except for the C-terminal peptides diverging between the A1 and A2 models, possibly explaining their functional difference. In conclusion, using various in vitro and in vivo models, here we show that subtype A2 has an inherently higher replication phenotype due to polymorphisms in HBx that result in possible differences in structure and expression level of the two subtype HBx proteins. This genotypic difference potentially explains the reported clinical differences between the two subtypes as well as providing a previously unrecognized association between viral sequence variations and clinical manifestations of HBV infection in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Karim Mouzannar
- Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Zhensheng Zhang
- Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yuji Teraoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Jason Piotrowski
- Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yuji Ishida
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- PhoenixBio Co., Ltd., Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Chise Tateno-Mukaidani
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- PhoenixBio Co., Ltd., Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Saito
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Hiromi Abe-Chayama
- Center for Medical Specialist Graduate Education and Research, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Collaborative Research Laboratory of Medical Innovation, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - T. Jake Liang
- Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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Mthethwa L, Parboosing R, Msomi N. MicroRNA levels in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus and HIV coinfection in a high-prevalence setting; KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:833. [PMID: 39148016 PMCID: PMC11328411 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09715-0] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection are significant public health issues, despite the availability of an effective HBV vaccine for nearly three decades and the great progress that has been made in preventing and treating HIV. HBV and HIV both modulate micro-ribonucleic acids (microRNA) expression to support viral replication. The aim of this study was to describe the pattern of microRNA expression in patients coinfected with chronic HBV and HIV with varying disease severity, as indicated by Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) status, HBV viral load, alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, and HIV viral load. METHODS Plasma microRNAs, specific to HBV, were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in HBV and HIV-negative healthy controls (n = 23) and patients coinfected with chronic HBV-HIV (n = 50). MicroRNA expression levels were compared between patients with high vs low HBV viral load, HBeAg positive vs HBeAg negative, high vs low ALT levels, and high vs low HIV viral load. Additionally, HBV viral load, ALT levels, and HIV viral load were correlated with microRNA expression levels. RESULTS Significantly higher expression levels of selected microRNAs were observed in chronic HBV-HIV coinfected patients compared to healthy controls. Significantly higher expression levels of hsa-miR-122-5p, hsa-miR-192-5p, and hsa-miR-193b-3p were observed in patients with high HBV viral load compared with low HBV viral load patients, and the levels of these microRNAs were correlated with HBV viral load levels. Significantly higher levels of hsa-miR-15b-5p and hsa-miR-181b-5p were observed in HBeAg-negative patients. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the potential use of hsa-miR-15b-5p, hsa-miR-122-5p, hsa-miR-181b-5p, hsa-miR-192-5p and hsa-miR-193b-3p as additional diagnostic biomarkers in chronic HBV disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulama Mthethwa
- Discipline of Virology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal and National Health Laboratory Service, 800 Vusi Mzimela Road, Durban, 4058, South Africa.
| | - Raveen Parboosing
- Discipline of Virology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal and National Health Laboratory Service, 800 Vusi Mzimela Road, Durban, 4058, South Africa
- Department of Virology, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, and National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nokukhanya Msomi
- Discipline of Virology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal and National Health Laboratory Service, 800 Vusi Mzimela Road, Durban, 4058, South Africa
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Padarath K, Deroubaix A, Naicker P, Stoychev S, Kramvis A. Comparison of the Proteome of Huh7 Cells Transfected with Hepatitis B Virus Subgenotype A1, with or without G1862T. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:7032-7047. [PMID: 39057060 PMCID: PMC11275860 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46070419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
HBeAg is a non-structural, secreted protein of hepatitis B virus (HBV). Its p25 precursor is post-translationally modified in the endoplasmic reticulum. The G1862T precore mutation leads to the accumulation of P25 in the endoplasmic reticulum and activation of unfolded protein response. Using mass spectrometry, comparative proteome profiling of Huh-7 cells transfected with wildtype (WT) or G1862T revealed significantly differentially expressed proteins resulting in 12 dysregulated pathways unique to WT-transfected cells and 7 shared between cells transfected with either WT or G1862T. Except for the p38 MAPK signalling pathway, WT showed a higher number of DEPs than G1862T-transfected cells in all remaining six shared pathways. Two signalling pathways: oxidative stress and cell cycle signalling were differentially expressed only in cells transfected with G1862T. Fifteen pathways were dysregulated in G1862T-transfected cells compared to WT. The 15 dysregulated pathways were involved in the following processes: MAPK signalling, DNA synthesis and methylation, and extracellular matrix organization. Moreover, proteins involved in DNA synthesis signalling (replication protein A (RPA) and DNA primase (PRIM2)) were significantly upregulated in G1862T compared to WT. This upregulation was confirmed by mRNA quantification of both genes and immunofluorescent confocal microscopy for RPA only. The dysregulation of the pathways involved in these processes may lead to immune evasion, persistence, and uncontrolled proliferation, which are hallmarks of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyasha Padarath
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Aurélie Deroubaix
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
- Life Sciences Imaging Facility, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Previn Naicker
- Future Production Chemicals, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Stoyan Stoychev
- ReSyn Biosciences, Johannesburg 2194, South Africa;
- Evosep Biosystems, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
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Phinius BB, Anderson M, Gobe I, Mokomane M, Choga WT, Phakedi B, Ratsoma T, Mpebe G, Makhema J, Shapiro R, Lockman S, Musonda R, Moyo S, Gaseitsiwe S. High Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Drug Resistance Mutations to Lamivudine among People with HIV/HBV Coinfection in Rural and Peri-Urban Communities in Botswana. Viruses 2024; 16:592. [PMID: 38675933 PMCID: PMC11054684 DOI: 10.3390/v16040592] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: We aimed to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) resistance-associated mutations (RAMs) in people with HBV and human immunodeficiency virus (HBV/HIV) in Botswana. (2) Methods: We sequenced HBV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from participants with HBV/HIV from the Botswana Combination Prevention Project study (2013-2018) using the Oxford Nanopore GridION platform. Consensus sequences were analyzed for genotypic and mutational profiles. (3) Results: Overall, 98 HBV sequences had evaluable reverse transcriptase region coverage. The median participant age was 43 years (IQR: 37, 49) and 66/98 (67.4%) were female. Most participants, i.e., 86/98 (87.8%) had suppressed HIV viral load (VL). HBV RAMs were identified in 61/98 (62.2%) participants. Most RAMs were in positions 204 (60.3%), 180 (50.5%), and 173 (33.3%), mostly associated with lamivudine resistance. The triple mutations rtM204V/L180M/V173L were the most predominant (17/61 [27.9%]). Most participants (96.7%) with RAMs were on antiretroviral therapy for a median duration of 7.5 years (IQR: 4.8, 10.5). Approximately 27.9% (17/61) of participants with RAMs had undetectable HBV VL, 50.8% (31/61) had VL < 2000 IU/mL, and 13/61 (21.3%) had VL ≥ 2000 IU/mL. (4) Conclusions: The high prevalence of lamivudine RAMs discourages the use of ART regimens with 3TC as the only HBV-active drug in people with HIV/HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonolo B. Phinius
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
- School of Allied Health Professions, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Private Bag UB 0022, Gaborone, Botswana; (I.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Motswedi Anderson
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Irene Gobe
- School of Allied Health Professions, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Private Bag UB 0022, Gaborone, Botswana; (I.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Margaret Mokomane
- School of Allied Health Professions, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Private Bag UB 0022, Gaborone, Botswana; (I.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Wonderful T. Choga
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
- School of Allied Health Professions, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Private Bag UB 0022, Gaborone, Botswana; (I.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Basetsana Phakedi
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Tsholofelo Ratsoma
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Gorata Mpebe
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Joseph Makhema
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Roger Shapiro
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shahin Lockman
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rosemary Musonda
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Sikhulile Moyo
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
- School of Allied Health Professions, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Private Bag UB 0022, Gaborone, Botswana; (I.G.); (M.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Simani Gaseitsiwe
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Gaborone, Botswana; (B.B.P.); (M.A.); (G.M.); (J.M.); (R.S.); (S.L.); (R.M.); (S.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Hepatitis B virus preCore/Core region variability in pregnant women in the Republic of Guinea. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, EPIDEMIOLOGY AND IMMUNOBIOLOGY 2024; 101:61-71. [DOI: 10.36233/0372-9311-447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2025]
Abstract
Introduction. The vertical route of hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission is a significant problem in African countries, which is characterized by late diagnosis of the disease and high mortality. The high prevalence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Africa may be due to variability in the HBV preCore/Core region, mutations in which contribute to disease progression. Molecular genetic characterization of strains circulating among pregnant women may reflect the overall mutational profile of the pathogen in the population.
The objective of this study was to analyze the variability of the HBV preCore/Core region circulating among pregnant women in the Republic of Guinea.
Materials and methods. The study material included 480 plasma samples obtained from HBV-positive pregnant women from the Republic of Guinea. For all samples, the nucleotide sequences of the preCore/Core region of the HBV genome were sequenced and analyzed.
Results. Amino acid variability in the preCore region was determined in 211 (43.96%), and in the Core region in 473 (98.54%) patients. 12 polymorphic sites of the preCore region were identified in which amino acid substitutions occurred, including 8, 2 and 5 positions identified for genotypes E, A and D, respectively. In the Core region, 67 substitution positions were identified, including 46 in samples of genotype E, 23 in HBV genotype A and 26 in genotype D. It was shown that the distribution of substitutions in the preCore and Core regions in HBV genotypes E, A and D differs significantly with a predominance in mutations among HBV genotype E — p 0.0001. Individual characteristic mutations have been identified for each genotype. The most common clinically significant mutations in the preCore/Core region in the study group were identified, including pc-H5D (27,08%), pc-W28* (35,21%), c-E64D (33,54%), c-L116I/V/G (91,46 %), c-T146N (73,13%). The double mutation A1762T/G1764A in the basal core promoter was shown in 74 samples of HBV genotype E, which accounted for 15.42% of the total group and 16.59% of patients with HBV genotype E.
Conclusion. The frequency of clinically significant preCore/Core mutations among pregnant women in the Republic of Guinea was determined. The data obtained reflect their prevalence in the general population and can be used to predict the progression of chronic HBV among the region's population.
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Chen J, Li L, Yin Q, Shen T. A review of epidemiology and clinical relevance of Hepatitis B virus genotypes and subgenotypes. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2023; 47:102180. [PMID: 37479136 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2023.102180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health burden, affecting nearly 300 million people around the world. Due to HBV population is considered to be represented as a viral quasispecies with genetic diversity, some reports showed that different genotypes of HBV have different viral effects, though the emergence of antiviral drugs that effectively inhibit viral replication, however, HBV infection has still not been eradicated and further research is needed. SUMMARY HBV has been classified into at least ten genotypes (A-J) and more than 40 subgenotypes based on an intergroup or intragroup nucleotide difference across the whole genome, respectively. Inter genotypic recombinants were also observed during the HBV evolution. HBV genotypes and subgenotypes have distinct ethno-geographical distributions, as well as evident differences in their biological characteristics. HBV genotypes and subgenotypes also have close association with disease severity, long-term clinical outcomes, and response to antiviral therapy. KEYMESSAGES In this review, we up-dated the epidemiological characteristics, clinical features and prognosis of HBV infection with dissimilar genotype/subgenotypes, to better understanding and developing individualized prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Medical school, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, PR China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory for Clinical Virology, Institute of Basic and Clinical Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650032, PR China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory for Clinical Virology, Institute of Basic and Clinical Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650032, PR China
| | - Qi Yin
- Medical school, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, PR China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory for Clinical Virology, Institute of Basic and Clinical Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650032, PR China
| | - Tao Shen
- Medical school, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, PR China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory for Clinical Virology, Institute of Basic and Clinical Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650032, PR China; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatic Disease, Yunnan Province Innovation Team of Intestinal Microecology Related Disease Research and Technological Transformation, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming 650032, PR China.
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9
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Anabire NG, Quaye O, Helegbe GK. Circulation of multiple hepatitis B virus genotypes in individual pregnant women seeking antenatal care in northern Ghana. Virol J 2023; 20:149. [PMID: 37443015 PMCID: PMC10347747 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-02110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identification and monitoring of HBV genotype variations is important, since that can help forecast the likelihood of developing serious liver disease and how well patients respond to antiviral medication. Given that HBV genotyping tests are not widely available in our healthcare system, this study characterized HBV genotypes in pregnant women seeking prenatal treatment in northern Ghana. METHOD By a cross-sectional approach, 2071 pregnant women seeking antenatal care in health facilities in northern Ghana were screened for HBV infection using hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) rapid diagnostic test kit. The women were aged between 17 and 41 years, were of varying gravidae (primigravidae and multigravidae) and gestational age (first, second and third trimesters). A confirmatory PCR assay was used to detect HBsAg, and the distribution of HBV genotypes was determined using a nested PCR assay. RESULTS Three HBV genotypes (A, D and E) were detected among the pregnant women, of which 175 (91.6%) had genotype E, 9 (4.7%) had mixed genotypes A and E, 5 (2.6%) had mixed genotypes D and E, and 2 (1.1) had mixed genotypes A, D and E. The proportions of women with the different HBV genotypes were independent of age (p = 0.925), gravidity (p = 0.193, χ2 = 4.729) and gestational age (p = 0.227, χ2 = 8.152). CONCLUSION This study for the first-time characterized circulating HBV genotypes in pregnant women in northern Ghana, which reveals genotypes A and D are found in mixed infections with genotype E. The findings have clinical implications on the management of chronic HBV infection among pregnant women in northern Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nsoh Godwin Anabire
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry, Cell & Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG 54, Legon- Accra, Ghana
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University for Development studies, P. O. Box TL 1883, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Osbourne Quaye
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry, Cell & Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG 54, Legon- Accra, Ghana
| | - Gideon Kofi Helegbe
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University for Development studies, P. O. Box TL 1883, Tamale, Ghana
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Kafeero HM, Ndagire D, Ocama P, Kato CD, Wampande E, Walusansa A, Kajumbula H, Kateete D, Ssenku JE, Sendagire H. Mapping hepatitis B virus genotypes on the African continent from 1997 to 2021: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5723. [PMID: 37029173 PMCID: PMC10082212 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32865-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) has ten genotypes (A-J) and over 40 sub-genotypes based on the divergence of ≥ 8% and 4 to < 8% in the complete genome respectively. These genotypes and sub-genotypes influence the disease prognosis, response to therapy and route of viral transmission. Besides, infection with mixed genotypes and recombinant genotypes has also been reported. This study aimed at mapping the de novo genotypes and correlate them with the immigration trends in order to inform future research on the underlying reasons for the relative distribution of HBV genotypes from a large sample size pooled from many primary studies. Data was extracted from 59 full research articles obtained from Scopus, PubMed, EMBASE, Willy library, African Journal Online (AJOL) and Google Scholar. Studies that investigated the genotypes, sub-genotypes, mixed genotypes and recombinant were included. The Z-test and regression were used for the analysis. The study protocol is registered with PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42022300220. Overall, genotype E had the highest pooled prevalence significantly higher than all the other genotypes (P < 0.001). By region, genotype A posted the highest pooled prevalence in eastern and southern Africa, E in west Africa and D in north Africa (P < 0.0001). Regarding the emerging genotypes B and C on the African continent, genotype B was significantly higher in south Africa than C (P < 0.001). In contrast, genotype C was significantly higher in east Africa than west Africa (P < 0.0001). The A1 and D/E were the most diverse sub-genotypes and genotype mixtures respectively. Finally, we observed a general progressive decrease in the prevalence of predominant genotypes but a progressive increase in the less dominant by region. Historical and recent continental and intercontinental migrations can provide a plausible explanation for the HBV genotype distribution pattern on the African continent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Mukasa Kafeero
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Habib Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University in Uganda, P. O Box 7689, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Dorothy Ndagire
- Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ponsiano Ocama
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Drago Kato
- Department of Biomolecular Resources and Biolab Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Eddie Wampande
- Department of Biomolecular Resources and Biolab Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abdul Walusansa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Habib Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University in Uganda, P. O Box 7689, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Henry Kajumbula
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Kateete
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jamilu E Ssenku
- Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hakim Sendagire
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P. O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Habib Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University in Uganda, P. O Box 7689, Kampala, Uganda
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11
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A novel subgenotype I3 of hepatitis B virus in Guangxi, China: a 15-year follow-up study. Virus Genes 2023; 59:359-369. [PMID: 36841897 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-023-01980-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Genotype I of hepatitis B virus (HBV) was proposed recently following sequencing of complete HBV genomes from Vietnam and Laos. However, its long-term molecular evolution is unknown. The objectives of this study were to study the molecular evolution of this genotype from an asymptomatic HBsAg carrier from the Long An cohort over a 15-year period was studied using both NGS and clone-based sequencing. The number of complete genome sequences obtained in 2004, 2007, 2013, and 2019 are 17, 20, 19, and 10, respectively. All strains belong to subgenotype I1, except for six (five from 2007 and one from 2019) and 8 further strains from 2007 which form a cluster branching out from other subgenotype I sequences, supported by a 100% bootstrap value. Based on complete genome sequences, all of the estimated intragroup nucleotide divergence values between these strains and HBV subgenotypes I1-I2 exceed 4%. These strains are recombinants between genotype I1 and subgenotype C but the breakpoints vary. The median intrahost viral evolutionary rate in this carrier was 3.88E-4 substitutions per site per year. The Shannon entropy (Sn) ranged from 0.55 to 0.88 and the genetic diversity, D, ranged from 0.0022 to 0.0041. In conclusion, our data provide evidence of novel subgenotypes. Considering that the 8 strains disappeared after 2007, while one of the 6 strains appears again in 2019, we propose these 6 strains as a new subgenotype, provisionally designated HBV subgenotype I3 and the 8 strains as aberrant genotype.
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12
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Dagnew M, Moges F, Tiruneh M, Million Y, Gelaw A, Adefris M, Belyhun Y, Liebert UG, Maier M. Molecular diversity of hepatitis B virus among pregnant women in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276687. [PMID: 36378635 PMCID: PMC9665361 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the availability of effective vaccines and treatments for hepatitis B virus (HBV), it continues to be a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. Routine screening for HBV in pregnant women is widely recommended, but there is lack of screening for HBV during pregnancy in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess viral load, and genetic diversity among pregnant women in the Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia. Materials and methods Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) testing was performed on 1846 pregnant women, 85 of who tested positive were included in this study. HBV DNA was isolated from 85 positive sera, and the partial surface/polymerase gene was amplified and sequenced. HBV genotypes, sub-genotypes, serotypes and mutations in surface genes and polymerase were studied. Results Out of 85 pregnant women`s HBsAg positive sera, 59(69.4%) had detectable viral DNA. The median viral load was 3.4 log IU/ml ranging from 2.6 to7.6 and 46 samples were successfully sequenced and genotyped. Genotypes A and D were identified in 39 (84.8%) and 7 (15.2%); respectively. All genotype A isolates were further classified into sub-genotype A1 and serotype adw2 (84.8%) whereas genotype D isolates were further classified into three sub genotypes; 2 (4.3%) D2, 1(2.2%) D4, and 4 (8.7%) D10 with serotypes ayw2 (10.9%), and ayw3 (4.3%). There were 19 (41.3%) surface gene mutations in the major hydrophilic region (MHR). Six (13.1%) of them were discovered in MHR`s `a’-determinant region. Six polymerase gene mutations (13%) were identified. Conclusion Genotype A was the predominant genotype in the Amhara National Regional State. The surface and polymerase gene mutations identified in this study may lead to immune therapy failure, diagnostics escape and drug resistance. Thus, the data generated in this study will contribute to the planning of HBV diagnosis, vaccination and treatment, and most importantly to the prevention of vertical transmission of HBV in Ethiopia. Therefore, further molecular studies on HBV are warranted and continuous surveillance is important for patient management and for the prevention and control of HBV infection in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulat Dagnew
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- Department of Virology, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Feleke Moges
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Moges Tiruneh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yihenew Million
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Aschalew Gelaw
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mulat Adefris
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yeshambel Belyhun
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- Department of Virology, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Uwe G. Liebert
- Department of Virology, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Melanie Maier
- Department of Virology, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
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Spearman CW, Dusheiko G, Jonas E, Abdo A, Afihene M, Cunha L, Desalegn H, Kassianides C, Katsidzira L, Kramvis A, Lam P, Lesi OA, Micah EA, Musabeyezu E, Ndow G, Nnabuchi CV, Ocama P, Okeke E, Rwegasha J, Shewaye AB, Some FF, Tzeuton C, Sonderup MW. Hepatocellular carcinoma: measures to improve the outlook in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:1036-1048. [PMID: 35810766 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(22)00041-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a leading public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, and it is most prevalent in young adults (median 45 years [IQR 35-57]). Overall, outcomes are poor, with a median survival of 2·5 months after presentation. Major risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma are hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus, aflatoxin B1 exposure, and alcohol consumption, with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease slowly emerging as a risk factor over the past few years. Crucially, these risk factors are preventable and manageable with effective implementation of the HBV birth-dose vaccination, treatment of chronic viral hepatitis, provision of harm reduction services, and by decreasing aflatoxin B1 exposure and harmful alcohol consumption. Primary prevention is central to the management of hepatocellular carcinoma, especially in poorly resourced environments. Effective screening and surveillance programmes with recall policies need to be implemented, because detection and curative management of hepatocellular carcinoma is possible if it is detected at an early stage, even in countries with minimal resources, with appropriate upskilling of medical personnel. The establishment of centres of excellence with advanced diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities within countries should improve hepatocellular carcinoma outcomes and assist in driving the implementation of much needed systematic data systems focused on hepatocellular carcinoma to establish the accurate burden in sub-Saharan Africa. Such data would support the public health importance of hepatocellular carcinoma and provide a strong basis for advocacy, programme development, resource allocation, and monitoring of progress in reducing mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Wendy Spearman
- Division of Hepatology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Geoffrey Dusheiko
- University College London Medical School, London, UK; Kings College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Eduard Jonas
- Surgical Gastroenterology Unit, Division of General Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Abdelmounem Abdo
- National Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease, Ibn Sina Hospital, Alamarat, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Mary Afihene
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lina Cunha
- Gastroenterology Unit, Maputo Private Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Hailemichael Desalegn
- Department of Internal Medicine, St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Chris Kassianides
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Leolin Katsidzira
- Internal Medicine Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Olufunmilayo A Lesi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Eileen A Micah
- Department of Medicine, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Gibril Ndow
- Disease Control and Elimination Theme, MRC Unit The Gambia at the London School of Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Chidi V Nnabuchi
- Asokoro District Hospital, Nile University Teaching Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Ponsiano Ocama
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edith Okeke
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - John Rwegasha
- Gastroenterology Training Centre, Department of Internal Medicine, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Abate B Shewaye
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Fatuma F Some
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Christian Tzeuton
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Douala, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Mark W Sonderup
- Division of Hepatology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Maepa MB, Ely A, Kramvis A, Bloom K, Naidoo K, Simani OE, Maponga TG, Arbuthnot P. Hepatitis B Virus Research in South Africa. Viruses 2022; 14:v14091939. [PMID: 36146747 PMCID: PMC9503375 DOI: 10.3390/v14091939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite being vaccine-preventable, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains the seventh leading cause of mortality in the world. In South Africa (SA), over 1.9 million people are chronically infected with HBV, and 70% of all Black chronic carriers are infected with HBV subgenotype A1. The virus remains a significant burden on public health in SA despite the introduction of an infant immunization program implemented in 1995 and the availability of effective treatment for chronic HBV infection. In addition, the high prevalence of HIV infection amplifies HBV replication, predisposes patients to chronicity, and complicates management of the infection. HBV research has made significant progress leading to better understanding of HBV epidemiology and management challenges in the SA context. This has led to recent revision of the national HBV infection management guidelines. Research on developing new vaccines and therapies is underway and progress has been made with designing potentially curative gene therapies against HBV. This review summarizes research carried out in SA on HBV molecular biology, epidemiology, treatment, and vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohube B. Maepa
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases and Oncology Research Institute (IDORI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
- Correspondence:
| | - Abdullah Ely
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases and Oncology Research Institute (IDORI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
| | - Kristie Bloom
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases and Oncology Research Institute (IDORI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
| | - Kubendran Naidoo
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases and Oncology Research Institute (IDORI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
| | - Omphile E. Simani
- HIV and Hepatitis Research Unit, Department of Virology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0204, South Africa
| | - Tongai G. Maponga
- Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7602, South Africa
| | - Patrick Arbuthnot
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases and Oncology Research Institute (IDORI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
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Roberts LR. Untreated Chronic Hepatitis B Is Associated With a Higher Risk of Extrahepatic Malignancies. J Clin Oncol 2022; 40:3357-3360. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.22.01051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Disproportionate Distribution of HBV Genotypes A and D and the Recombinant Genotype D/E in the High and Low HBV Endemic Regions of Uganda: A Wake-Up Call for Regional Specific HBV Management. Int J Hepatol 2022; 2022:3688547. [PMID: 35070455 PMCID: PMC8767397 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3688547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the leading cause of liver-related diseases. In Uganda, there is a regional disparity in the HBV burden. Our study was aimed at establishing the circulating genotypes in a low and a high endemic region to give plausible explanations for the differences in regional burden and guide the future management of the disease. METHODS A total of 200 HBsAg-seropositive subjects were recruited into the study by convenience sampling. The HBsAg Rapid Test Strip (Healgen Scientific Limited Liability Company, Houston, TX77047- USA) was used to screen for HBsAg while the Roche machine (Roche, Basel Switzerland/Abbot Technologies (USA)) was used to determine the viral load. The Chemistry Analyzer B120 (Mindray, China) was used for chemistry analysis. For HBV genotyping, total DNA was extracted from whole blood using the QIAamp® DNA extraction kit. Nested PCR amplification was performed using Platinum Taq DNA Polymerase (Invitrogen Corporation, USA) to amplify the 400 bp HBV polymerase gene. Purification of nested PCR products was performed using Purelink PCR product purification kit (Life Technologies, USA). Automated DNA sequencing was performed using BigDye Terminator v3.1 Cycle Sequencing Kit on 3130 Genetic Analyzer (Applied Biosystems, USA). The NCBI HBV genotyping tool (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/projects/genotyping/formpage.cgi) was used for determination of genotype for each HBV sequence. Pearson's chi-square, multinomial logistic regression, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for the analysis. All the analyses were done using SPSS version 26.0 and MedCalc software version 19.1.3 at 95% CI. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Majority of our study subjects were female (64.5%), youth (51.0%), and married (62.0%). Overall, genotype A was the most prevalent (46%). Genotype D and the recombinant genotype D/E were proportionately more distributed in the high endemic (38.2%) and low endemic (36.5%) regions, respectively. Genotype D was significantly more prevalent in the high endemic region and among the elderly (p < 0.05). Genotype D was significantly associated with elevated viral load and direct bilirubin (p < 0.05). The recombinant genotype D/E was significantly associated with elevated viral load (p < 0.05). Similarly, genotype A was significantly associated with elevated AST and GGT, lowered viral load, and normal direct bilirubin levels (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION There is disproportionate distribution of genotypes A and D and the recombinant genotype D/E in the low and high endemic regions of Uganda. This probably could explain the differences in endemicity of HBV in our country signifying the need for regional specific HBV management and control strategies.
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Ingasia LAO, Wose Kinge C, Kramvis A. Genotype E: The neglected genotype of hepatitis B virus. World J Hepatol 2021; 13:1875-1891. [PMID: 35069995 PMCID: PMC8727212 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v13.i12.1875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) (sub)genotypes A1, D3 and E circulate in sub-Saharan Africa, the region with one of the highest incidences of HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma globally. Although genotype E was identified more than 20 years ago, and is the most widespread genotype in Africa, it has not been extensively studied. The current knowledge status and gaps in its origin and evolution, natural history of infection, disease progression, response to antiviral therapy and vaccination are discussed. Genotype E is an African genotype, with unique molecular characteristics that is found mainly in Western and Central Africa and rarely outside Africa except in individuals of African descent. The low prevalence of this genotype in the African descendant populations in the New World, phylogeographic analyses, the low genetic diversity and evidence of remnants of genotype E in ancient HBV samples suggests the relatively recent re-introduction into the population. There is scarcity of information on the clinical and virological characteristics of genotype E-infected patients, disease progression and outcomes and efficacy of anti-HBV drugs. Individuals infected with genotype E have been characterised with high hepatitis B e antigen-positivity and high viral load with a lower end of treatment response to interferon-alpha. A minority of genotype E-infected participants have been included in studies in which treatment response was monitored. Of concern is that current guidelines do not consider patients infected with genotype E. Thus, there is an urgent need for further large-scale investigations into genotype E, the neglected genotype of HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luicer Anne Olubayo Ingasia
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Constance Wose Kinge
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, Gauteng, South Africa
- Department of Implementation Science, Right to Care, Johannesburg 0046, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, Gauteng, South Africa
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In Vivo Modelling of Hepatitis B Virus Subgenotype A1 Replication Using Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors. Viruses 2021; 13:v13112247. [PMID: 34835053 PMCID: PMC8618177 DOI: 10.3390/v13112247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The paucity of animal models that simulate the replication of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an impediment to advancing new anti-viral treatments. The work reported here employed recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) to model HBV subgenotype A1 and subgenotype D3 replication in vitro and in vivo. Infection with subgenotype A1 is endemic to parts of sub-Saharan Africa, and it is associated with a high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Recombinant AAV serotype 2 (AAV2) and 8 (AAV8) vectors bearing greater-than-genome-length sequences of HBV DNA from subgenotype A1 and D3, were produced. Transduced liver-derived cultured cells produced HBV surface antigen and core antigen. Administration of AAV8 carrying HBV subgenotype A1 genome (AAV8-A1) to mice resulted in the sustained production of HBV replication markers over a six-month period, without elevated inflammatory cytokines, expression of interferon response genes or alanine transaminase activity. Markers of replication were generally higher in animals treated with subgenotype D3 genome-bearing AAVs than in those receiving the subgenotype A1-genome-bearing vectors. To validate the use of the AAV8-A1 murine model for anti-HBV drug development, the efficacy of anti-HBV artificial primary-microRNAs was assessed. Significant silencing of HBV markers was observed over a 6-month period after administering AAVs. These data indicate that AAVs conveniently and safely recapitulate the replication of different HBV subgenotypes, and the vectors may be used to assess antivirals’ potency.
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Abstract
Hepatitis B was discovered by researchers who were investigating jaundice associated with blood transfusions as well as parenterally administered medications. Through trial and error, the HBV was identified. There are specific tests that detect HBV infection, whether it is a previous exposure or active infection. The various HBV serologies are reviewed in this work as well. Hepatitis B surface antigen has emerged as a tool in defining treatment endpoint and its significance is reviewed. HBV genotypes are distributed uniquely throughout the world, in particular, genotype C is associated with higher rates of hepatocellular carcinoma. Various HBV genotypes and their impact on the clinical course are discussed. The relationship of HBV serologies and HBV DNA to disease progression is outlined. There are specific recommendations on monitoring those infected with HBV and this is reviewed here. HBV mutations have an impact on the disease course and those of significance are also discussed.
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Hayashi S, Nagaoka K, Tanaka Y. Blood-Based Biomarkers in Hepatitis B Virus-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Including the Viral Genome and Glycosylated Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11051. [PMID: 34681709 PMCID: PMC8540379 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development and is a global public health issue. High performance biomarkers can aid the early detection of HCC development in HBV-infected individuals. In addition, advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of HBV infection and in clinical laboratory techniques have enabled the establishment of disease-specific tests, prediction of the progression of liver diseases, including HCC, and auxiliary diagnosis of HCC, using blood-based methods instead of biopsies of liver or HCC tissues. Viral factors such as the HBV genotype, HBV genetic mutations, HBV DNA, and HBV-related antigens, as well as host factors, such as tumor-associated proteins and post-translational modifications, especially glycosylated proteins, can be blood-based, disease-specific biomarkers for HCC development in HBV-infected patients. In this review, we describe the clinical applications of viral biomarkers, including the HBV genome and glycosylated proteins, for patients at a risk of HBV-related HCC, based on their molecular mechanisms. In addition, we introduce promising biomarker candidates for practical use, including colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R), extracellular vesicles, and cell-free, circulating tumor DNA. The clinical use of such surrogate markers may lead to a better understanding of the risk of disease progression and early detection of HCC in HBV-infected patients, thereby improving their prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yasuhito Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; (S.H.); (K.N.)
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21
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Challenges for hepatitis B virus cure in resource-limited settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2021; 15:185-192. [PMID: 32141888 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this article is to highlight the unique challenges for hepatitis B virus (HBV) cure faced in resource-limited settings (RLS) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where access to disease prevention measures, medical testing, and treatment are limited. RECENT FINDINGS SSA RLS face challenges, which need to be anticipated as HBV cure research advances. There is a paucity of data because of lack of HBV surveillance and limited access to laboratories. Interruption of transfusion-transmitted infections, perinatal mother-to-child-transmissions, and transmission in people-who-infect-drug networks has not been achieved fully. Although RLS in SSA are within the epicenter of the HIV pandemic, unlike for HIV, there is no population-based testing for HBV. Public health response to HBV is inadequate with concomitant political inertia in combatting HBV infection. SUMMARY A functional HBV cure will improve the diagnosis/treatment cascade, decrease costs and accelerate HBV elimination. There is a concerted effort to find a HBV cure, which will be finite, not require life-long treatment, adherence, and continued monitoring. Increased research, improved financial, infrastructural and human resources will positively impact on implementation of HBV cure, when available. We can emulate major strides made in tackling HIV and the strength of advocacy groups in soliciting policymakers to take action.
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In vitro expression of precore proteins of hepatitis B virus subgenotype A1 is affected by HBcAg, and can affect HBsAg secretion. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8167. [PMID: 33854155 PMCID: PMC8046783 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87529-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
HBeAg, a non-particulate protein of hepatitis B virus (HBV), is translated from the precore/core region as a precursor, which is post-translationally modified. Subgenotype A1 of HBV, which is a risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has unique molecular characteristics in the basic core promoter/precore regions. Carriers of A1 exhibit early HBeAg loss. We sought to further characterize the precore proteins of A1 in vitro. HuH-7 cells were transfected with subgenomic constructs expressing individual precore proteins. Western blot analysis using DAKO anti-core antibody showed the expected sizes and a 1 kDa larger band for P22, P20 and P17. Using confocal microscopy, a cytoplasmic accumulation of HBeAg and precursors was observed with P25-expressing plasmid, whereas P22 localized both in the cytoplasm and nucleus. P20 and P17, which lack the carboxy end of P22 showed strong nuclear accumulation, implicating a nuclear localization signal in the N-terminal 10 amino acids. G1862T, unique to subgenotype A1, is frequently found in HBV from HCC patients. P25 with G1862T showed delayed and reduced HBeAg expression/secretion. Knock-out of core in the replication competent clones led to precore protein accumulation in the cytoplasm/perinuclear region, and decreased HBeAg secretion. Knock-out of precore proteins increased HBsAg secretion but intracellular HBsAg expression was unaffected. Over-expression of precore proteins in trans led to decreased HBsAg expression and secretion. Intracellular trafficking of HBV A1 precore proteins was followed. This was unaffected by the CMV promoter and different cell types. In the viral context, precore protein expression was affected by absence of core, and affected HBsAg expression, suggesting an interrelationship between precore proteins, HBcAg and HBsAg. This modulatory role of HBeAg and its precursors may be important in viral persistence and ultimate development of HCC.
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Araujo NM, Teles SA, Spitz N. Comprehensive Analysis of Clinically Significant Hepatitis B Virus Mutations in Relation to Genotype, Subgenotype and Geographic Region. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:616023. [PMID: 33381105 PMCID: PMC7767914 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.616023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a highly variable DNA virus due to its unique life cycle, which involves an error-prone reverse transcriptase. The high substitution rate drives the evolution of HBV by generating genetic variants upon which selection operates. HBV mutants with clinical implications have been documented worldwide, indicating the potential for spreading and developing their own epidemiology. However, the prevalence of such mutants among the different HBV genotypes and subgenotypes has not been systematically analyzed. In the current study, we performed large-scale analysis of 6,479 full-length HBV genome sequences from genotypes A-H, with the aim of gaining comprehensive insights into the relationships of relevant mutations associated with immune escape, antiviral resistance and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development with HBV (sub)genotypes and geographic regions. Immune escape mutations were detected in 10.7% of the sequences, the most common being I/T126S (1.8%), G145R (1.2%), M133T (1.2%), and Q129R (1.0%). HBV genotype B showed the highest rate of escape mutations (14.7%) while genotype H had no mutations (P < 0.001). HCC-associated mutations were detected in 33.7% of the sequences, with significantly higher frequency of C1653T, T1753V and A1762T/G1764A in genotype G than C (P < 0.001). The overall frequencies of lamivudine-, telbivudine-, adefovir-, and entecavir-resistant mutants were 7.3, 7.2, 0.5, and 0.2%, respectively, while only 0.05% showed reduced susceptibility to tenofovir. In particular, the highest frequency of lamivudine-resistant mutations was observed in genotype G and the lowest frequency in genotype E (32.5 and 0.3%; P < 0.001). The prevalence of HBV mutants was also biased by geographic location, with North America identified as one of the regions with the highest rates of immune escape, antiviral resistance, and HCC-associated mutants. The collective findings were discussed in light of natural selection and the known characteristics of HBV (sub)genotypes. Our data provide relevant information on the prevalence of clinically relevant HBV mutations, which may contribute to further improvement of diagnostic procedures, immunization programs, therapeutic protocols, and disease prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia M Araujo
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sheila A Teles
- Faculty of Nursing, Federal University of Goias, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Natália Spitz
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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24
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Kabamba AT, Kalunga BT, Mwamba CM, Nyembo CM, Dufrasne F, Dessilly G, Kabamba BM, Longanga AO. Epidemiological aspects and molecular characterization of the hepatitis B virus among blood donors in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo. Transfus Clin Biol 2020; 28:30-37. [PMID: 33232802 DOI: 10.1016/j.tracli.2020.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The strains of HBV circulating among blood donors in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), are not yet characterized. The purpose of this study was to determine seroprevalence, changes in biochemical parameters during HBV infection and molecular characterization of HBV in blood donors in Lubumbashi. METHODS The detection of HBsAg was carried out by rapid diagnostic test then confirmed by the Liaison XL® Quant HBsAg technique. PCR targeting the P gene was carried out on LightCycler® 96 and genotyping by the sequencing technique on ABI 3500. RESULTS The seroprevalence was 7.9%. The genotypes E (53.1%), A (41.8%), A3/E (3.8%), A1/E (1.3%) and some drug resistance mutations were identified. Disturbances of HDL-cholesterol, direct bilirubin, transaminases (ASAT and ALAT), PAL, GGT and albumin have been observed in HBsAg positive blood donors. CONCLUSION The results of our study indicated that Lubumbashi is in a region with high endemicity for HBV and report for the first time HBV of genotypes A, E, A1/E and A3/E. They highlight the need to implement strategies to improve transfusion safety in blood transfusion centers and hospital blood banks in Lubumbashi in order to reduce HBV infection in recipients. They could also contribute to the implementation of treatment strategies and the development of mapping of circulating HBV genotypes in the DRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- A T Kabamba
- Laboratoire de biologie clinique, faculté des sciences pharmaceutiques, université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo; Pôle de microbiologie, institut de recherche expérimentale et clinique, université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - B T Kalunga
- Laboratoire de biologie clinique, faculté des sciences pharmaceutiques, université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - C M Mwamba
- Faculté de médecine, université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - C M Nyembo
- Faculté de médecine, université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - F Dufrasne
- Pôle de microbiologie, institut de recherche expérimentale et clinique, université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - G Dessilly
- Pôle de microbiologie, institut de recherche expérimentale et clinique, université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - B M Kabamba
- Pôle de microbiologie, institut de recherche expérimentale et clinique, université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - A O Longanga
- Laboratoire de biologie clinique, faculté des sciences pharmaceutiques, université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
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Cohen D, Ghosh S, Shimakawa Y, Ramou N, Garcia PS, Dubois A, Guillot C, Kakwata-Nkor Deluce N, Tilloy V, Durand G, Voegele C, Ndow G, d'Alessandro U, Brochier-Armanet C, Alain S, Le Calvez-Kelm F, Hall J, Zoulim F, Mendy M, Thursz M, Lemoine M, Chemin I. Hepatitis B virus preS2Δ38-55 variants: A newly identified risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma. JHEP Rep 2020; 2:100144. [PMID: 32904132 PMCID: PMC7452365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Although HBV is a major cause of death in Africa, its genetic variability has been poorly documented. This study aimed to address whether HBV genotype and surface gene variants are associated with HBV-related liver disease in The Gambia. METHODS We conducted a case-control study nested in the Prevention of Liver Fibrosis and Cancer in Africa programme. Consecutive treatment-naive patients with chronic HBV infection and detectable viral load were recruited: 211 controls with no significant liver disease and 91 cases (56 cirrhosis and 35 HCC cases). HBV genotypes and surface gene variants were determined by Sanger sequencing or next-generation sequencing (NGS) in serum DNA. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-specific codon 249 TP53 mutation was determined by NGS in circulating cell-free plasma DNA. RESULTS In phylogenetic analysis, 85% of individuals carried HBV genotype E, 14% genotype A, and 1% A/E recombinant viruses. Surface gene variants were more frequently observed in cases (43% and 57% in cirrhosis and HCC cases, respectively) than controls (25%; p <0.001), with preS2 deletions between nucleotides 38-55 (preS2Δ38-55) being the main genetic variant detected. In multivariable analysis, HBeAg seropositivity, low HBsAg levels, and HDV seropositivity were significantly associated with cirrhosis and HCC, whilst older age, higher viral load, genotype A, preS2Δ38-55, and AFB1 exposure were only associated with HCC. There was a multiplicative joint effect of preS2Δ38-55 variants with HBeAg seropositivity (odds ratio [OR] 43.1 [10.4-177.7]), high viral load >2,000 IU/ml (OR 22.7 [8.0-64.9]), HBsAg levels <10,000 IU/ml (OR 19.0 [5.5-65.3]), and AFB1 exposure (OR 29.3 [3.7-230.4]) on HCC risk. CONCLUSIONS This study identified a hotspot for HBV preS2 deletions as a strong independent factor for HCC in The Gambia, with HBV genotypes and AFB1 exposure contributing to the high liver cancer risk. LAY SUMMARY Although HBV-related liver disease is highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, the associated virological characteristics are poorly studied. Using clinical data from African patients chronically infected with HBV, an assessment of the virological variability (genotypes and mutations) and exposure to AFB1, a toxin often contaminating food, was carried out. Our results show that HBV genotypes, the presence of a highly prevalent mutant form of HBV, and AFB1 exposure contribute to the high liver cancer risk in this population.
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Key Words
- AFB1, aflatoxin B1
- AFP, alpha-fetoprotein
- Aflatoxin B1
- Africa
- Carcinogenesis
- Cirrhosis
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- Genotype
- Hepatitis B virus
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- LSM, liver stiffness measurement
- NBS1, Nijmegen breakage syndrome 1
- NGS, next-generation sequencing
- OR, odds ratio
- PROLIFICA, Prevention of Liver Fibrosis and Cancer in Africa
- PreS deletion
- ROC, receiver operating characteristic
- SSA, sub-Saharan Africa
- WT, wild type
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Cohen
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Sumantra Ghosh
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Yusuke Shimakawa
- Unité d'Épidémiologie des Maladies Émergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Njie Ramou
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Pierre Simon Garcia
- Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, Villeurbanne, France
- Molecular Microbiology and Structural Biochemistry, Institut de Biologie et de Chimie des Protéines 7 passage du Vercors, Lyon Cedex, France
| | - Anaëlle Dubois
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Clément Guillot
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Nora Kakwata-Nkor Deluce
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Valentin Tilloy
- Microbiology Department, CHU Limoges, Genomic Platform GenoLim, UMR Inserm 1092/FR CNRS 145 GEIST, Faculté de Médecine-Université de Limoges, CHU Dupuytren, CBRS, Limoges, France
| | | | | | - Gibril Ndow
- Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Umberto d'Alessandro
- Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Céline Brochier-Armanet
- Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Sophie Alain
- Microbiology Department, CHU Limoges, Genomic Platform GenoLim, UMR Inserm 1092/FR CNRS 145 GEIST, Faculté de Médecine-Université de Limoges, CHU Dupuytren, CBRS, Limoges, France
| | | | - Janet Hall
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Department of Hepatology, Groupement Hospitalier Nord, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Maimuna Mendy
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Mark Thursz
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Liver Unit, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Maud Lemoine
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Liver Unit, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Isabelle Chemin
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
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26
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Maponga TG, Glashoff RH, Vermeulen H, Robertson B, Burmeister S, Bernon M, Omoshoro-Jones J, Ruff P, Neugut AI, Jacobson JS, Preiser W, Andersson MI. Hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma in South Africa in the era of HIV. BMC Gastroenterol 2020; 20:226. [PMID: 32660431 PMCID: PMC7359588 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-020-01372-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients co-infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are at risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In sub-Saharan Africa, the overlap between high HIV and HBV prevalence may increase the incidence of HCC. This study investigated the impact of HBV/HIV co-infection on age at presentation and survival of HCC. METHODS Ethical approval was obtained to recruit, following informed written consent, patients diagnosed with HCC at oncology units at four South African hospitals. Between December 2012 and August 2015, patients newly diagnosed with HCC were recruited and provided demographic and clinical data and blood specimens. Patients were tested for HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV. Survival data was available for a subset of patients. RESULTS Of 107 HCC cases, 83 (78%) were male. Median age was 46 years (range 18 to 90 years), 68/106 (64%) were HBsAg-positive, and 22/100 (22%) were HIV infected. Among HBV surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive HCC cases, 18/66 (27%) were HIV-infected compared to 3/34 (9%) among those that were HBsAg-negative (p = 0.04). A greater proportion of HBV/HIV co-infected cases were female than HBV mono-infected (6/18, 33% vs 6/47, 13%; p = 0.005). In addition, HBV/HIV co-infected females presented at a younger mean age (36.8 years) than HBV mono-infected women (50.5 years) (p = 0.09). Median survival was 82 days among the HIV-infected HCC patients compared to 181 days among those without HIV (p = 0.15). CONCLUSIONS HCC is an important complication in the HIV/HBV infected patient. HIV-positive patients presented with HCC at a younger age than HIV-negative patients, this effect appears to be greater in women. These data provide more evidence supporting the call to address. HCC as a cause of morbidity and mortality in the HBV/HIV co-infected patient population. (281 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongai Gibson Maponga
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Richard H Glashoff
- Division of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa.,Tygerberg Business Unit, National Health Laboratory Service, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hannali Vermeulen
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Barbara Robertson
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sean Burmeister
- Department of Surgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marc Bernon
- Department of Surgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Paul Ruff
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Alfred I Neugut
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, USA.,Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, USA.,Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Judith S Jacobson
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, USA.,Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Wolfgang Preiser
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa.,Tygerberg Business Unit, National Health Laboratory Service, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Monique I Andersson
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Mak D, Kramvis A. Molecular characterization of hepatitis B virus isolated from Black South African cancer patients, with and without hepatocellular carcinoma. Arch Virol 2020; 165:1815-1825. [PMID: 32504396 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-020-04686-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In South Africa (SA), hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is strongly associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). As HBV genotypes/subgenotypes and mutations can influence disease manifestation and progression, our aim was to molecularly characterize HBV in Black cancer patients, with and without HCC. The basal core promoter/precore (BCP/PC) and complete surface (S) regions of HBV isolates were amplified and sequenced from 55 HCC cases and 22 non-HCC cancer controls. Phylogenetic analysis of 43 polymerase/complete S region amplicons showed that the majority (88.4%) clustered with subgenotype A1, 4.7% with A2, and 7% with A3. The following mutations were significantly more frequent in HCC cases than in controls (p < 0.05): in the BCP/PC 1753C/G (22.5% vs. 0%), 1764A (69.4% vs. 38.1%), and T64C (51.5% vs. 20%) in the preS2, which results in a F22L substitution. PreS1 and preS2 start codon mutants were detected only in HCC cases, occurring in two and 16 isolates, respectively. PreS deletion mutants were isolated from 11 HCC cases, which had a HBV viral load > 10,000 IU/mL and were significantly younger than non-HCC controls (34 ± 7.1 vs. 41.2 ± 9.5 years, p = 0.05). The 1762T/1764A double mutation was detected in the majority (90.9%) of the isolates from HCC cases with preS deletions. Black HBV carriers were mainly infected with subgenotype A1, with HCC cases carrying BCP/PC and preS mutant strains that are associated with hepatocarcinogenesis. This is the first study to compare the molecular characteristics of HBV from HCC and non-HCC cancer patients in SA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mak
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit (HVDRU), Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit (HVDRU), Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
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28
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Sonderup MW, Dusheiko G, Desalegn H, Lemoine M, Tzeuton C, Taylor-Robinson SD, Spearman CW. Hepatitis B in sub-Saharan Africa-How many patients need therapy? J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:560-567. [PMID: 31800145 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa with ~60 million people chronically infected. While prevention, through vaccination, is central to elimination strategies, only 11 countries have birth dose vaccination and full vaccine coverage remains at suboptimal levels. Furthermore, to fully realize elimination, those chronically infected need to be identified, assessed for therapy and then linked to care. Given current treatment criteria, the precise quantum of people warranting therapy, according to criteria, is essentially unknown. The issue is further complicated by data to suggest differences in the numbers of people requiring treatment when applying WHO as compared to European Association for the Study of the Liver, EASL, criteria. Optimal determination of treatment eligibility is further hindered by the lack of available tools to adequately assess individual patients. It is conceivable that accurately determining the number of those requiring treatment, given the heterogeneity of hepatitis B in Africa, is difficult. Better studies and data are required. More signifcantly, improved access and availability to the diagnostic tools needed to assess patients in additon to access to drugs are as, if not more important, to achieve elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Sonderup
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of health Sciences, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Geoffrey Dusheiko
- Liver Unit, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
- Division of Medicine, University College London Medical School, London, UK
| | - Hailemichael Desalegn
- Medical Department, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Maud Lemoine
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital NHS, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Christian Tzeuton
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Simon D Taylor-Robinson
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital NHS, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - C Wendy Spearman
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of health Sciences, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Vinikoor MJ, Sinkala E, Kanunga A, Muchimba M, Zanolini A, Saag M, Pry J, Nsokolo B, Chisenga T, Kelly P. Eligibility for hepatitis B antiviral therapy among adults in the general population in Zambia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227041. [PMID: 31929556 PMCID: PMC6957183 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We evaluated antiviral therapy (AVT) eligibility in a population-based sample of adults with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Zambia. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using a household survey, adults (18+ years) were tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Sociodemographic correlates of HBsAg-positivity were identified with multivariable regression. HBsAg-positive individuals were referred to a central hospital for physical examination, elastography, and phlebotomy for HBV DNA, hepatitis B e antigen, serum transaminases, platelet count, and HIV-1/2 antibody. We determined the proportion of HBV monoinfected adults eligible for antiviral therapy (AVT) based on European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) 2017 guidelines. We also evaluated the performance of two alternative criteria developed for use in sub-Saharan Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Treat-B guidelines. RESULTS Across 12 urban and 4 rural communities, 4,961 adults (62.9% female) were tested and 182 (3.7%) were HBsAg-positive, 80% of whom attended hospital follow-up. HBsAg-positivity was higher among men (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.99-1.87) and with decreasing income (AOR, 0.89 per household asset; 95% CI, 0.81-0.98). Trends toward higher HBsAg-positivity were also seen at ages 30-39 years (AOR, 2.11; 95% CI, 0.96-4.63) and among pregnant women (AOR, 1.74; 95% CI, 0.93-3.25). Among HBV monoinfected individuals (i.e., HIV-negative) evaluated for AVT, median age was 31 years, 24.6% were HBeAg-positive, and 27.9% had HBV DNA >2,000 IU/ml. AVT-eligibility was 17.0% by EASL, 10.2% by WHO, and 31.1% by Treat-B. Men had increased odds of eligibility. WHO (area under the receiver operating curve [AUROC], 0.68) and Treat-B criteria (AUROC, 0.76) had modest accuracy. Fourteen percent of HBsAg-positive individuals were HIV coinfection, and most coinfected individuals were taking tenofovir-containing antiretroviral therapy (ART). CONCLUSION Approximately 1 in 6 HBV monoinfected adults in the general population in Zambia may be AVT-eligible. Men should be a major focus of hepatitis B diagnosis and treatment. Further development and evaluation of HBV treatment criteria for resource-limited settings is needed. In settings with overlapping HIV and HBV epidemics, scale-up of ART has contributed towards hepatitis B elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Vinikoor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutrition Group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Edford Sinkala
- Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutrition Group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Annie Kanunga
- Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutrition Group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mutinta Muchimba
- Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutrition Group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Arianna Zanolini
- Department for International Development, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Michael Saag
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Jake Pry
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- University of California at Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Bright Nsokolo
- Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutrition Group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Paul Kelly
- Tropical Gastroenterology and Nutrition Group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Bannister E, Sozzi V, Mason H, Locarnini S, Hardikar W, Revill PA. Analysis of the in vitro replication phenotype of African hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes and subgenotypes present in Australia identifies marked differences in DNA and protein expression. Virology 2019; 540:97-103. [PMID: 31765921 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus infection in Africa is characterised by distinct genotypes with observed differences in natural history and clinical outcomes. Replication-competent cDNA clones of African genotypes were generated from patient-derived sequences identified in African children with chronic hepatitis B infection living in Australia: A1 (wild-type and basal core promotor (BCP) mutant), D2, D6, and E, comparing the replication phenotype to an established D3 cDNA clone in a transient transfection cell culture model. All clones replicated efficiently although less than the European D3 reference clone, and demonstrated marked differences in replication capacity, highest for subgenotypes A1 and D2. The BCP mutation increased the replication levels of the A1 subgenotype compared to wild-type. Intracellular and secreted surface antigen and HBeAg protein expression also varied across genotypes. We observed differences in functional activity in the upstream regulatory region across the genotypes that may contribute to the replication and protein differences observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bannister
- Department of Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - V Sozzi
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - H Mason
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - S Locarnini
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - W Hardikar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - P A Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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Revill PA, Penicaud C, Brechot C, Zoulim F. Meeting the Challenge of Eliminating Chronic Hepatitis B Infection. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10040260. [PMID: 30939846 PMCID: PMC6523454 DOI: 10.3390/genes10040260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Over 257 million people live with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and there is no known cure. The effective preventative vaccine has no impact on existing infection. Despite the existence of drugs which efficiently suppress viral replication, treatment is usually life-long and finite therapies that cure HBV infection are urgently required. However, even if such therapies were available today, it is unlikely they would reach all of those who need it most, due to chronic hepatitis B (CHB) being largely undiagnosed across the globe and to the dire need for health systems promoting access to therapy. Considerable challenges to developing and implementing an effective HBV cure remain. Nonetheless, important advances towards a cure are being made, both in the development of a multitude of new therapeutic agents currently undergoing clinical trials, and through the establishment of a new global initiative dedicated to an HBV cure, ICE-HBV, that is working together with existing organisations to fast-track an HBV cure available to all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
| | - Capucine Penicaud
- Directorate, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
| | - Christian Brechot
- University of South Florida, Tampa, 33612, USA.
- Romark Laboratory, Tampa, 33607, USA.
- Global Virus Network, Baltimore; MD 21201-1009, USA.
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM Unit 1052-Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69000 Lyon, France.
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Coffin CS, Fung SK, Alvarez F, Cooper CL, Doucette KE, Fournier C, Kelly E, Ko HH, Ma MM, Martin SR, Osiowy C, Ramji A, Tam E, Villeneuve JP. Management of Hepatitis B Virus Infection: 2018 Guidelines from the Canadian Association for the Study of Liver Disease and Association of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease Canada. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2018; 1:156-217. [PMID: 35992619 PMCID: PMC9202759 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj.2018-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is an important public health problem in Canada. In keeping with evolving evidence and understanding of HBV pathogenesis, the Canadian Association for the Study of Liver Disease periodically publishes HBV management guidelines. The goals of the 2018 guidelines are to (1) highlight the public health impact of HBV infection in Canada and the need to improve diagnosis and linkage to care, (2) recommend current best-practice guidelines for treatment of HBV, (3) summarize the key HBV laboratory diagnostic tests, and (4) review evidence on HBV management in special patient populations and include more detail on management of HBV in pediatric populations. An overview of novel HBV tests and therapies for HBV in development is provided to highlight the recent advances in HBV clinical research. The aim and scope of these guidelines are to serve as an up-to-date, comprehensive resource for Canadian health care providers in the management of HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla S. Coffin
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta
| | - Scott K. Fung
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | - Fernando Alvarez
- Centre hospitalier de l’université de Montréal (CHUM)—CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Québec
| | - Curtis L. Cooper
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario
| | - Karen E. Doucette
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Claire Fournier
- Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec
| | - Erin Kelly
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario
| | - Hin Hin Ko
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia
| | - Mang M Ma
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | | | - Carla Osiowy
- Viral Hepatitis and Bloodborne Pathogens, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Alnoor Ramji
- St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia
| | - Edward Tam
- LAIR Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia
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Cuenca-Gómez JÁ, Lozano-Serrano AB, Cabezas-Fernández MT, Soriano-Pérez MJ, Vázquez-Villegas J, Estévez-Escobar M, Cabeza-Barrera I, Salas-Coronas J. Chronic hepatitis B genotype E in African migrants: response to nucleos(t)ide treatment in real clinical practice. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:568. [PMID: 30428845 PMCID: PMC6236963 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3469-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype E is a poorly studied genotype that almost exclusively occurs in African people. It seems to harbour intrinsic potential oncogenic activity and virological characteristics of immune scape but a paucity of information is available on clinical and virological characteristic of HBV genotype E-infected patients as well as on the efficacy of anti-HBV drugs for such patients. The increasing flow of migrants from high endemic HBV sub-Saharan Africa, where genotype E is the predominant one, to Western countries makes improving such knowledge critical in order to deliver proper medical care. Methods Prospective observational study of naïve patients of sub-Saharan origin treated for chronic HBV genotype E infection at a Tropical Medicine clinic sited in Spain from February 2004 to January 2018. The aim of the study was to describe the response of chronic HBV genotype E infection to nucleos(t)ide analogues (NA), entecavir or tenofovir, in real clinical practice. Results During the study period, 2209 sub-Saharan patients were assisted at our Tropical Medicine Unit and 609 (27.6%) had chronic HBV (CHB) infection. Genotype information was available for 55 naïve patients initiating treatment with NA (entecavir or tenofovir), 43 (84.3%) of them being genotype E, although 15 were excluded because they did not meet study inclusion criteria. Thus, a total of 28 CHB genotype E patients were included and followed for 24 months at least. Twenty-one patients were in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis phase and 7 patients in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis phase. After one year of treatment, among those with good adherence, 89.4% (17/19) of the HBeAg-negative patients and 80% of the HBeAg-positive ones had undetectable viral loads. Response rates reached 100% in both groups after 15–18 months of follow-up. Out of the 7 HBeAg-positive patients, 6 (85.7%) presented HBeAg loss in a median time of 31.8 months. Neither serious adverse effects nor hepatocarcinoma cases happened during the study period. Conclusions HBV genotype may influence disease progression and antiviral response. Our study provides precious information on the efficacy and safety of NA treatment for CHB genotype E infection, a fairly unknown genotype with and increasing epidemiological impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Ángel Cuenca-Gómez
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Hospital de Poniente, Carretera de Almerimar s/n, PD: 07400, Almería, El Ejido, Spain.
| | - Ana Belén Lozano-Serrano
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Hospital de Poniente, Carretera de Almerimar s/n, PD: 07400, Almería, El Ejido, Spain
| | | | - Manuel Jesús Soriano-Pérez
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Hospital de Poniente, Carretera de Almerimar s/n, PD: 07400, Almería, El Ejido, Spain
| | | | | | - Isabel Cabeza-Barrera
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Hospital de Poniente, Carretera de Almerimar s/n, PD: 07400, Almería, El Ejido, Spain
| | - Joaquín Salas-Coronas
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Hospital de Poniente, Carretera de Almerimar s/n, PD: 07400, Almería, El Ejido, Spain
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Kostaki EG, Karamitros T, Stefanou G, Mamais I, Angelis K, Hatzakis A, Kramvis A, Paraskevis D. Unravelling the history of hepatitis B virus genotypes A and D infection using a full-genome phylogenetic and phylogeographic approach. eLife 2018; 7:36709. [PMID: 30082021 PMCID: PMC6118819 DOI: 10.7554/elife.36709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection constitutes a global public health problem. In order to establish how HBV was disseminated across different geographic regions, we estimated the levels of regional clustering for genotypes D and A. We used 916 HBV-D and 493 HBV-A full-length sequences to reconstruct their global phylogeny. Phylogeographic analysis was conducted by the reconstruction of ancestral states using the criterion of parsimony. The putative origin of genotype D was in North Africa/Middle East. HBV-D sequences form low levels of regional clustering for the Middle East and Southern Europe. In contrast, HBV-A sequences form two major clusters, the first including sequences mostly from sub-Saharan Africa, and the second including sequences mostly from Western and Central Europe. Conclusion: We observed considerable differences in the global dissemination patterns of HBV-D and HBV-A and different levels of monophyletic clustering in relation to the regions of prevalence of each genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia-Georgia Kostaki
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Timokratis Karamitros
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Garyfallia Stefanou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Ioannis Mamais
- Department of Health Sciences, School of SciencesEuropean University of CyprusNicosiaCyprus
| | - Konstantinos Angelis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Angelos Hatzakis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health ScienceUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Dimitrios Paraskevis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
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Bannister EG, Yuen L, Littlejohn M, Edwards R, Sozzi V, Colledge D, Li X, Locarnini S, Hardikar W, Revill PA. Molecular characterization of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in African children living in Australia identifies genotypes and variants associated with poor clinical outcome. J Gen Virol 2018; 99:1103-1114. [PMID: 29932395 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Migration from sub-Saharan Africa is contributing to the rising incidence of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection and its complications in Australia. African CHB is associated with unique genotypes, such as E and A1, which are associated with reduced vaccine efficacy and early-onset hepatocellular carcinoma, respectively, although the prevalence of these genotypes outside Africa is poorly described. Treatment-naïve children of African origin with CHB were recruited at the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Population-based sequencing of the complete HBV genome, or the clinically relevant basal core promoter (BCP)/precore (PC) region, was performed, and the HBV genotype/subgenotype assigned by phylogenetic analysis. HBV was characterized in serum from 67 children, median age 12.5 years. HBV genotype E was most frequent (70 %), with genotype D [25 %; subgenotypes D6 (formerly D7)/D3/D2)] and subgenotype A1 (5 %) also being identified. Despite their young age, over 50 % of the children were HBeAg-negative and had seroconverted to anti-HBe, with this being associated with canonical BCP/PC mutations in the majority of cases. The profile of HBV in African children living in Australia was characterized by early HBeAg seroconversion and infection with HBV variants associated with poor clinical outcome, as well as genotypes previously associated with reduced vaccine efficacy or rapid progression to liver cancer. These findings have important ramifications for patient monitoring and treatment guidelines in the Australian paediatric setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Bannister
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia.,2Department of Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,3Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lilly Yuen
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret Littlejohn
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia
| | - Rosalind Edwards
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia
| | - Vitina Sozzi
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia
| | - Danni Colledge
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia
| | - Xin Li
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Locarnini
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia
| | - Winita Hardikar
- 2Department of Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,3Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter A Revill
- 1Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, 3000 Victoria, Australia.,4Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Khatun M, Mondal RK, Pal S, Baidya A, Bishnu D, Banerjee P, Santra AK, Dhali GK, Banerjee S, Chowdhury A, Datta S. Distinctiveness in virological features and pathogenic potentials of subgenotypes D1, D2, D3 and D5 of Hepatitis B virus. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8055. [PMID: 29795338 PMCID: PMC5966457 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26414-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Distinct clinical features of HBV infection have been associated with different viral genotype/subgenotype. HBV Genotype-D comprised of 10 subgenotypes, D1–D10, whose clinical implications still remain elusive. We investigated for the first-time, the virologic characteristics and cytopathic effects of four non-recombinant D-subgenotypes, D1/D2/D3/D5. Expressions of viral/host genes were evaluated in Huh7 cells transfected with full-length, linear-monomers of HBV/D-subgenotypes or pGL3-Basic vector carrying subgenotype-specific HBx. Intracellular HBV-DNA and pregenomic-RNA levels were high in D1/D2 than D3/D5. Expressions of PreC-mRNA and HBx were highest for D2 and D1 respectively, whereas PreS2/S-transcript was significantly reduced in D5. Increased apoptotic cell death and marked upregulation in caspase-3/Bax/TNF-R1/FasR/TRAIL-R1/ROS/MCP-1/IP-10/MIP-1β expression were noticed specifically in D2- and also in D3-transfected cells, while D5 resulted in over-expression of ER-stress-markers. D-subgenotype-transfected Huh7 cells were co-cultured with PBMC of healthy-donors or LX-2 cells and significant increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines in PBMC and fibrogenic-markers in LX-2 were noticed in presence of D2/D3. Further, Huh7 cells transfected with D1, in particular and also D5, displayed remarkable induction of EMT-markers and high proliferative/migratory abilities. Collectively, our results demonstrated that D2/D3 were more associated with hepatic apoptosis/inflammation/fibrosis and D1/D5 with increased risk of hepatocarcinogenesis and emphasize the need for determining HBV-subgenotype in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mousumi Khatun
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Rajiv Kumar Mondal
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Sourina Pal
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Ayana Baidya
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Debasree Bishnu
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Priyanka Banerjee
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Amal Kumar Santra
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Gopal Krishna Dhali
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Soma Banerjee
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Abhijit Chowdhury
- Department of Hepatology, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India
| | - Simanti Datta
- Centre for Liver Research, School of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (I.P.G.M.E. & R.), Kolkata, India.
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Kilonzo SB, Gunda DW, Mpondo BCT, Bakshi FA, Jaka H. Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Tanzania: Current Status and Challenges. J Trop Med 2018; 2018:4239646. [PMID: 29666656 PMCID: PMC5831599 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4239646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B is one of the most common infectious diseases in the world with high prevalence in most of sub-Saharan Africa countries. The complexity in its diagnosis and treatment poses a significant management challenge in the resource-limited settings including Tanzania, where most of the tests and drugs are either unavailable or unaffordable. This mini review aims at demonstrating the current status of the disease in the country and discussing the concomitant challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semvua B. Kilonzo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of Allied and Health Sciences, P. O. Box 1440, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bugando Medical Centre, P.O. Box 1370, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Daniel W. Gunda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of Allied and Health Sciences, P. O. Box 1440, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bugando Medical Centre, P.O. Box 1370, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Bonaventura C. T. Mpondo
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Dodoma, P. O. Box 395, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Fatma A. Bakshi
- Renal Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan Hospital, P.O. Box 2289, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Hyasinta Jaka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of Allied and Health Sciences, P. O. Box 1440, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bugando Medical Centre, P.O. Box 1370, Mwanza, Tanzania
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Virological and Clinical Characteristics of Hepatitis B Virus Genotype A. J Gastroenterol 2018; 53:18-26. [PMID: 28687901 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-017-1367-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is one of the most prevalent chronic viral infections in humans. The overall prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is reported to be 3.6%; however, it varies depending upon the geographic area. HBV is classified into ten genotypes (A through J) on the basis of an intergroup genomic divergence of > 8%. Specifically, HBV genotype A exhibits several unique virological and clinical characteristics and can be further classified into seven subtypes. Among them, subtype A2 or Ae (A2/[e]) is occasionally responsible for nosocomial infection and among homosexual males. Regarding virological factors, the G1896A precore mutation is rarely observed in genotype A as it would disrupt an essential stem-loop structure in the ε signal essential for pregenomic RNA packaging. HBV genotype A also harbors a 6-nucleotide C-terminal insertion in the hepatitis B-e antigen (HBeAg) precursor, resulting in a variable-length HBeAg protein product observed in serum of positive patients. These molecular traits likely contribute to the specific clinical presentation of genotype A-infected patients, such as mild acute hepatitis B (AHB), longer persistence of HBsAg positivity in AHB, and increased chronicity after AHB in adults. However, genotype A shows a better response to interferon than other genotypes in chronic hepatitis B patients. Here, we review the virological and clinical characteristics of HBV genotype A that will be useful in elucidating the association among persistent viral infection, host genetic factors, and treatment in future studies.
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Deressa T, Damtie D, Fonseca K, Gao S, Abate E, Alemu S, Aleka Y, Swain MG, van Marle G, Coffin CS. The burden of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, genotypes and drug resistance mutations in human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients in Northwest Ethiopia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0190149. [PMID: 29281718 PMCID: PMC5744989 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In sub-Saharan Africa, the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are endemic. Although there has been great progress in HIV care, universal HBV vaccination and care is lacking. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV, HBV genotypes, and drug resistance mutations in dual infected cases in a cohort of HIV patients in Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A total of 308 HIV-1 positive patients were enrolled into the study and tested for HBsAg in plasma. In HBsAg positive samples, HBV DNA was analyzed for HBV genotype using in-house nested PCR with HBV-specific pre-core / core or surface primers, and for HBV drug resistance mutations (DRMs) in polymerase region. Odds ratio at 95% confidence interval was calculated. Results Of the 308 HIV-positive subjects, 62.7% were female, median age 38 years (range 18–68, IQR: 27–49), and the median CD4 count 405 cells/μl (IQR: 75–734). Overall, 94.2% were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) frequently with combinations of Zidovudine (AZT)- Lamivudine (3TC)—Nevirapine (NVP). HBsAg was detected in 5.5% (95%CI 2.95–8.08%) of the study participants, of which the majority were infected with HBV genotype A (7A, 2E, 2D, 1C, 1 G). All HIV/HBV positive cases were on ART with anti-HBV activity (i.e., 3TC) and 3TC associated HBV DRMs (i.e., rtV173L, rtL180M, and rtM204V) were detected in 7/13 (53.8%) subjects. Conclusion In this cross-sectional study of HIV-infected individuals, we found 5.5% HBV/HIV co-infected cases. Most were receiving the first generation anti-HBV therapy with a low genetic barrier to resistance, and several carried mutations associated with anti-HBV (3TC) drug resistance. These data underscore the importance of integrating HBV screening to the HIV treatment guidelines for better management and prevention of HBV-related liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tekalign Deressa
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | - Debasu Damtie
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Kevin Fonseca
- Provincial Laboratory for Public Health, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Shan Gao
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ebba Abate
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- Ethiopian Public health institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Shitaye Alemu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yetemwork Aleka
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mark G. Swain
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Guido van Marle
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carla S. Coffin
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Jaquet A, Nouaman M, Tine J, Tanon A, Anoma C, Inwoley A, Attia A, Ekouevi DK, Seydi M, Dabis F, Wandeler G. Hepatitis B treatment eligibility in West Africa: Uncertainties and need for prospective cohort studies. Liver Int 2017; 37:1116-1121. [PMID: 28561454 PMCID: PMC5524454 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS While universal screening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is recommended in high burden countries, little is known about the proportion of HBV-infected persons in need of antiviral therapy in these settings. METHODS Prisoners in Senegal and Togo as well as female sex workers and men who have sex with men in Cote d'Ivoire were screened for HBV infection. All HBsAg-positive participants underwent transient elastography, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and HBV viral load (VL) quantification. Individuals with cirrhosis or those aged >30 years with an HBV replication ≥20 000 IU/mL and elevated ALT were considered eligible for antiviral therapy. RESULTS Of 1256 participants, 110 (8.8%) were HBsAg positive; their median age was 30 years [interquartile range: 25-33] and 96 (86.5%) were men. Three individuals (2.7%) had cirrhosis, while 28 (29.5%) of 94 participants with available measurements had an HBV VL ≥20 000 IU/mL. Overall, 11 (10.0%) subjects were considered eligible for immediate antiviral treatment (2.1% of participants in Dakar, 7.7% in Abidjan and 21.6% in Lome, P=.001) and 59 (53.4%) for close monitoring due to the presence of significant liver fibrosis, elevated ALT or significant HBV replication. CONCLUSIONS Among vulnerable populations in West Africa, a minority of HBV-infected individuals were eligible for immediate antiviral therapy. Prospective cohort studies are necessary to evaluate anti-HBV treatment eligibility facing the significant proportion of individuals with active chronic HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Jaquet
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France,Inserm, ISPED, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Judicaël Tine
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, CRCF, CHU de Fann, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Aristophane Tanon
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, CHU de Treichville, Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire
| | - Camille Anoma
- ONG Clinique de Confiance d’Abidjan, Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire
| | | | - Alain Attia
- Service de hépato-gastroentérologie, CHU de Yopougon, Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire
| | - Didier K. Ekouevi
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France,Inserm, ISPED, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France,Programme PACCI, CHU de Treichville, Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire,Département de Santé Publique, Faculté des Sciences de la santé, Université de Lome, Lome, Togo
| | - Moussa Seydi
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, CRCF, CHU de Fann, Dakar, Senegal
| | - François Dabis
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France,Inserm, ISPED, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | - Gilles Wandeler
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, CRCF, CHU de Fann, Dakar, Senegal,Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland,Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
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Hassan MA, Kim WR, Li R, Smith CI, Fried MW, Sterling RK, Ghany MG, Wahed AS, Ganova-Raeva LM, Roberts LR, Lok ASF. Characteristics of US-Born Versus Foreign-Born Americans of African Descent With Chronic Hepatitis B. Am J Epidemiol 2017; 186:356-366. [PMID: 28525625 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwx064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is more common in African Americans than in white Americans. We compared the epidemiologic, clinical, and virological characteristics of US-born African Americans (USAAs) to those of foreign-born African Americans (FBAAs) with chronic hepatitis B. The adult cohort study of the Hepatitis B Research Network enrolls patients with HBV infection from 21 clinical sites in the United States and Canada. A total of 237 (15%) of the adult participants with chronic HBV infection that were enrolled from January 20, 2011, to October 2, 2013, were of African descent, including 57 USAAs and 180 FBAAs (76%). Compared with FBAAs, USAAs were older and more likely to have acquired HBV through sexual exposure, to be HBeAg-positive, to have higher HBV DNA levels, and to be infected with HBV genotype A2. FBAAs from West Africa were more likely to have elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (72% vs. 50%; P < 0.01) and higher HBV DNA levels (median, 3.2 log10 IU/mL vs. 2.8 log10 IU/mL; P = 0.03) compared with East African FBAAs. The predominant HBV genotype among West African FBAAs was E (67%), whereas genotypes A (78%) and D (16%) were common in East African FBAAs. Significant differences were found between USAAs and FBAAs, highlighting the need for tailored strategies for prevention and management of chronic HBV infection for African Americans.
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Grant J, Agbaji O, Kramvis A, Yousif M, Auwal M, Penugonda S, Ugoagwu P, Murphy R, Hawkins C. Hepatitis B virus sequencing and liver fibrosis evaluation in HIV/HBV co-infected Nigerians. Trop Med Int Health 2017; 22:744-754. [PMID: 28376292 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Molecular characteristics of hepatitis B virus (HBV), such as genotype and genomic mutations, may contribute to liver-related morbidity and mortality. The association of these characteristics with liver fibrosis severity in sub-Saharan Africa is uncertain. We aimed to characterise molecular HBV features in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/HBV co-infected Nigerians and evaluate associations between these characteristics and liver fibrosis severity before and after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. METHODS HIV/HBV co-infected Nigerians underwent liver fibrosis estimation by transient elastography (TE) prior to and 36 months after ART initiation. Basal core promoter/precore (BCP/PC) and preS1/preS2/S regions of HBV were sequenced from baseline plasma samples. We evaluated associations between HBV mutations and liver fibrosis severity by univariate and multivariable regression. RESULTS At baseline, 94 patients underwent TE with median liver stiffness of 6.4 (IQR 4.7-8.7) kPa. Patients were predominantly infected with HBV genotype E (45/46) and HBe-antigen negative (75/94, 79.8%). We identified BCP A1762T/G1764A in 15/35 (43%), PC G1896A in 20/35 (57%), 'a' determinant mutations in 12/45 (26.7%) and preS2 deletions in 6/16 (37.5%). PreS2 mutations were associated with advanced fibrosis in multivariable analysis. At follow-up, median liver stiffness was 5.2 (IQR 4.1-6.6) kPa. No HBV molecular characteristics were associated with lack of fibrosis regression, although HIV virologic control, body mass index (BMI) and baseline CD4+ T-cell count were associated with a decline in fibrosis stage. CONCLUSION Frequent BCP/PC and preS1/preS2/S mutations were found in ART-naïve HIV/HBV co-infected Nigerians. Median liver stiffness declined after initiation of ART, regardless of pre-ART HBV mutational pattern or virologic characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Grant
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Oche Agbaji
- Department of Medicine, University of Jos and Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Anna Kramvis
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mukhlid Yousif
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mu'azu Auwal
- HIV Care and Treatment Center, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Sudhir Penugonda
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Placid Ugoagwu
- HIV Care and Treatment Center, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Robert Murphy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Claudia Hawkins
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Lawson-Ananissoh LM, Attia KA, Diallo D, Doffou S, Kissi YH, Bangoura D, Kouamé D, Mahassadi KA, Yao-Bathaix F, Yoman TN. Distribution et implications cliniques des génotypes du virus de l’hépatite B chez 33 porteurs chroniques du virus de l’hépatite B en Côte-d’Ivoire. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s12157-017-0726-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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45
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Lemoine M, Thursz MR. Battlefield against hepatitis B infection and HCC in Africa. J Hepatol 2017; 66:645-654. [PMID: 27771453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Revised: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite effective and safe hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine and antiviral therapies, HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major cause of deaths in young adults in Africa. There are multiple barriers to control the burden of HBV infection and HCC. In comparison to other major infectious diseases, HBV infection and liver diseases have received remarkably little attention from the global health community. There is an urgent need to improve birth dose vaccine coverage and implementing screening and treatment interventions. This requires a dramatic simplification of the management of chronic hepatitis B in Africa, with access to reliable, robust and inexpensive diagnostic tools and strong support from the local governments and the international health community. This review analyses 1) the characteristics of HBV hepatitis and HCC epidemics in Africa and 2) the barriers and potential solutions to control it.
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Baudi I, Iijima S, Chin'ombe N, Mtapuri-Zinyowera S, Murakami S, Isogawa M, Hachiya A, Iwatani Y, Tanaka Y. Molecular epidemiology of co-infection with hepatitis B virus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among adult patients in Harare, Zimbabwe. J Med Virol 2017; 89:257-266. [PMID: 27458715 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of co-infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the genetic characteristics of both viruses among pre-HIV-treatment patients in Harare, Zimbabwe. This cross-sectional survey involved 176 remnant plasma samples collected from consenting HIV patients (median age 35 [18-74]) between June and September 2014. HBV seromarkers were determined by high-sensitivity chemiluminescence assays. Molecular evolutionary analyses were conducted on the basal core promoter/precore (BCP/PC) and S regions of HBV, as well as part of the HIV pol region. Of the 176 participants (65.7% female), 19 (10.8%) were positive for HBsAg (median 0.033 IU/ml (IQR 0.01-415). The HBsAg incidence was higher in men than women (P = 0.009). HBsAg-positive subjects had lower median CD4 counts (P = 0.016). HBV DNA was detectable in 12 HBsAg-positive samples (median 3.36 log cp/ml (2.86-4.51), seven being amplified and sequenced. All isolates were subgenotype A1 without HBV drug resistance mutations but each had at least one BCP/PC mutation. PreS deletion mutants and small S antigen variants M133I/T and D144G were identified. Of the 164 HIV isolates successfully genotyped, 163 (99.4%) were HIV-1 subtype C and only one was HIV-1 subtype F1. Sixteen (9.8%) had at least one drug resistance mutation, predominantly non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-related mutations, observed mostly among female participants. This study shows that co-infection with HBV is present among HIV patients enrolling into HIV care in Zimbabwe, suggesting that HBV screening and monitoring programmes be strengthened in this context. J. Med. Virol. 89:257-266, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Baudi
- Department of Virology and Liver Unit, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Sayuki Iijima
- Department of Virology and Liver Unit, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Nyasha Chin'ombe
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Shuko Murakami
- Department of Virology and Liver Unit, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masanori Isogawa
- Department of Virology and Liver Unit, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Atsuko Hachiya
- National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Iwatani
- National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Tanaka
- Department of Virology and Liver Unit, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
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Thurnheer MC, Edwards R, Schulz TR, Yuen L, Littlejohn M, Revill P, Bannister E, Chu M, Tanyeri F, Wade A, Biggs BA, Sasadeusz J. Genotypic profiles of hepatitis B in African immigrants and their clinical relevance. J Med Virol 2016; 89:1000-1007. [PMID: 27862013 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) from 40 adult African immigrants in Australia was characterized to determine the prevalence of different HBV genotypes and subgenotypes. A mutational analysis was then performed to determine the presence of clinically significant mutations and correlate them to clinical outcomes. Initial sequencing analysis revealed 13 with genotype A (32.5%), 13 with genotype D (32.5%), and 14 with genotype E (35%). Serology showed that 37 were HBeAg negative. Phylogenetic analysis identified a high prevalence (25%) of HBV subgenotype A1 in our cohort, a subgenotype which has been associated with more aggressive clinical disease. BCP/PC sequencing was obtained for 38 patients. BCP and/or PC mutations were identified in 36/38 (95%). The median viral load of all patients was 2995 IU/mL and most of the pathology results were within the normal range. Only one patient had an increased APRI score of 1.1 suggestive of cirrhosis. We present novel information on the HBV genotypes amongst the African population in Australia along with clinical correlates. The high prevalence of A1 subgenotype in this population supports the current Australian recommendation to commence hepatocellular carcinoma screening in Africans with chronic HBV from 20 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Christine Thurnheer
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Rosalind Edwards
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Thomas Ray Schulz
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia.,Department of Medicine/ RMH, University of Melbourne, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Lilly Yuen
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Margaret Littlejohn
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Peter Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Bannister
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Melissa Chu
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3050, Australia
| | - Firuz Tanyeri
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3050, Australia
| | - Amanda Wade
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia
| | - Beverley-Ann Biggs
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia.,Department of Medicine/ RMH, University of Melbourne, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Joseph Sasadeusz
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
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Allain JP, Opare-Sem O. Screening and diagnosis of HBV in low-income and middle-income countries. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 13:643-653. [PMID: 27625189 DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2016.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
HBV testing and diagnosis of HBV-related liver disease in low-income and middle-income countries differs substantially from that in developed countries in terms of access to resources and expensive technologies requiring highly specialized staff. For identification and classification of HBV infection, genomic amplification methods to detect and quantify HBV DNA are often nonexistent or available only in central laboratories of major cities. When samples from peripheral locations do arrive, delays in receiving results generate loss to follow-up. Testing is often limited to measurement of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), alanine aminotransferase levels, aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) to determine indications for antiviral therapy (AVT). Utilization of AVT is limited by cost and availability, particularly when patients are not covered by health insurance. The natural history of HBV infection is influenced by genotypes B and C in East Asia, where decades of immune tolerance have led to mostly vertical transmission; in sub-Saharan Africa, where genotypes A1 and E predominate, infection is transmitted horizontally between young children, followed by a nonreplicative phase. In both regions, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are common and would be considerably ameliorated by AVT. Implementation of the HBV vaccine since the 1990s in Asia and 2000s in Africa has decreased the incidence of HBV, but vaccine failure and insufficiently effective prevention remain concerning issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Allain
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Science Village, Chesterford Research Park, Little Chesterford CB10 1XL, UK
| | - Ohene Opare-Sem
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University Post Office, Kumasi, Ghana
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Godoy BA, Gomes-Gouvêa MS, Zagonel-Oliveira M, Alvarado-Mora MV, Salzano FM, Pinho JRR, Fagundes NJR. High prevalence of HBV/A1 subgenotype in native south Americans may be explained by recent economic developments in the Amazon. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2016; 43:354-63. [PMID: 27267305 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Revised: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Native American populations present the highest prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection in the Americas, which may be associated to severe disease outcomes. Ten HBV genotypes (A–J) have been described, displaying a remarkable geographic structure, which most likely reflects historic patterns of human migrations. In this study, we characterize the HBV strains circulating in a historical sample of Native South Americans to characterize the historical viral dynamics in this population. The sample consisted of 1070 individuals belonging to 38 populations collected between 1965 and 1997. Presence of HBV DNA was checked by quantitative real-time PCR, and determination of HBV genotypes and subgenotypes was performed through sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of a fragment including part of HBsAg and Pol coding regions (S/Pol). A Bayesian Skyline Plot analysis was performed to compare the viral population dynamics of HBV/A1 strains found in Native Americans and in the general Brazilian population. A total of 109 individuals were positive for HBV DNA (~ 10%), and 70 samples were successfully sequenced and genotyped. Subgenotype A1 (HBV/A1), related to African populations and the African slave trade, was the most prevalent (66–94%). The Skyline Plot analysis showed a marked population expansion of HBV/A1 in Native Americans occurring more recently (1945–1965) than in the general Brazilian population. Our results suggest that historic processes that contributed to formation of HBV/A1 circulating in Native American are related with more recent migratory waves towards the Amazon basin, which generated a different viral dynamics in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibiane A Godoy
- Genetics Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Michele S Gomes-Gouvêa
- Laboratory of Tropical Gastroenterology and Hepatology "João Alves de Queiroz and Castorina Bittencourt Alves", Institute of Tropical Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Zagonel-Oliveira
- Genetics Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; VIZLab - Advanced Visualization Laboratory, UNISINOS, São Leopoldo, RS, Brazil
| | - Mónica V Alvarado-Mora
- Laboratory of Tropical Gastroenterology and Hepatology "João Alves de Queiroz and Castorina Bittencourt Alves", Institute of Tropical Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Francisco M Salzano
- Genetics Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - João R R Pinho
- Laboratory of Tropical Gastroenterology and Hepatology "João Alves de Queiroz and Castorina Bittencourt Alves", Institute of Tropical Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Nelson J R Fagundes
- Genetics Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype is closely related to response to antiviral therapy and the development of liver diseases. In this paper, we will review HBV genotypes, geographic distributions, their modes of transmission, and the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV genotypes have extensive connections with clinical pathology of HCC. Genotype B HBV is closely related to large-sized HCC, multiple tumors and vascular invasion. Patients with genotypes A or B HBV infection have better responses to interferon therapy, but genotypes seem not to influence the response to nucleotide analogue treatment. Therefore, HBV genotypes can be used as a genetic marker to predict the occurrence of HCC, and help practicing physicians choose optimal anti-viral therapy to prevent the occurrence of HCC.
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