MedWorm: Hepatitis C

Characterization and Application of Monoclonal Antibody Against Hepatitis C Virus Nonstructual Protein Three

Hybridoma — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:36:54 +0100

Hybridoma Feb 2012, Vol. 31, No. 1: 54-59. (Source: Hybridoma)

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Review article: the extra‐skeletal effects of vitamin D in chronic hepatitis C infection

Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsLarger randomised clinical studies with adequate statistical power are needed to confirm these potentially very important nonskeletal effects of vitamin D in patients with chronic hepatitis C. (Source: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Peginterferon for Recurrent HCV After Liver TransplantationPeginterferon for Recurrent HCV After Liver Transplantation

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

This study explores the therapeutic options. Journal of Viral Hepatitis (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Determining Virological Response in Chronic HCV Patients Determining Virological Response in Chronic HCV Patients

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

At what point in a treatment regimen is it optimal to determine virological response in chronic hepatitis C? Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Amateur tattoos carry hepatitis C risk: CDC

Reuters: Health — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:27:06 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - If you're planning on getting a tattoo, make sure it's from a professional and not your friend, says a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Source: Reuters: Health)

Amateur Tattoos Carry Hepatitis C Risk: CDC

MedlinePlus Health News — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:27:04 +0100

If you're planning on getting a tattoo, make sure it's from a professional and not your friend, says a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Pages: Hepatitis C, Piercing and Tattoos (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

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Insomnia

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: InsomniaCategory: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 6/6/2005Last Editorial Review: 2/7/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

Transmission of Hepatitis C Virus Through Transplanted Organs and Tissue--Kentucky and Massachusetts, 2011 [From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]

JAMA — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

The Impact of IL28B Genotype on the Gene Expression Profile of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Treated with Pegylated Interferon Alpha and Ribavirin

Journal of Translational Medicine — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: IL28B CC genotype patients with CH-C show a sustained treatment-induced gene expression profile which is not seen in non-CC genotype patients. Silencing of SOCS1 is a negative and independent predictor of SVR. These data may provide some mechanistic explanation for higher rate of SVR in IL28B CC patients who are treated with PEG-IFN/RBV. (Source: Journal of Translational Medicine)

Magic mushrooms, international law and the failed 'war on drugs'

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:36:26 +0100

Recent research suggesting potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin focus attention on the need to reform drug lawsIt's been a busy fortnight. First the publication of two major peer-reviewed research papers about magic mushrooms that attracted worldwide publicity. Then off to Prague for an international drugs policy symposium. And just last week, news of a large grant for our next collaborative study with Imperial College. But I'm getting ahead of myself.I established the Beckley Foundation some 14 years ago as a think tank on drugs policy. It was apparent even then that the "war on drugs" had failed. A 1997 report by the United Nations Drugs Control Programme put the value of the global trade in illicit drugs at around $400bn. Recent UN figures show that global production of opium (u...

Functional reconstitution of defective myeloid dendritic cells in chronic hepatitis C infection on successful antiviral treatment

Liver International — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsOur results indicate that DCs in CHC patients exhibiting mature and functional phenotype prior to therapy achieve sustained virological response suggesting that functional modulation of defective DCs is directly associated with successful response to therapy. (Source: Liver International)

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Analysis of the interaction with the hepatitis C virus mRNA reveals an alternative mode of RNA recognition by the human La protein

Nucleic Acids Research — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Human La protein is an essential factor in the biology of both coding and non-coding RNAs. In the nucleus, La binds primarily to 3' oligoU containing RNAs, while in the cytoplasm La interacts with an array of different mRNAs lacking a 3' UUUOH trailer. An example of the latter is the binding of La to the IRES domain IV of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA, which is associated with viral translation stimulation. By systematic biophysical investigations, we have found that La binds to domain IV using an RNA recognition that is quite distinct from its mode of binding to RNAs with a 3' UUUOH trailer: although the La motif and first RNA recognition motif (RRM1) are sufficient for high-affinity binding to 3' oligoU, recognition of HCV domain IV requires the La motif and RRM1 to work in concert wit...

Thin-layer chromatography immunostaining in detecting anti-phospholipid antibodies in seronegative anti-phospholipid syndrome.

Clinical and Developmental Immunology — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 16:26:31 +0100

Authors: Conti F, Alessandri C, Sorice M, Capozzi A, Longo A, Garofalo T, Misasi R, Bompane D, Hughes GR, Khamashta MA, Valesini G Abstract In clinical practice it is possible to find patients with clinical signs suggestive of anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) who are persistently negative for the routinely used anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL). Therefore, the term proposed for these cases was seronegative APS (SN-APS). We investigated the clinical usefulness of thin-layer chromatography (TLC) immunostaining in detecting serum aPL in patients presenting clinical features of SN-APS. Sera from 36 patients with SN-APS, 19 patients with APS, 18 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 20 anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive subjects and 32 healthy controls were examined for ...

Donor disclosure – a donor's right and blood bank's responsibility

Transfusion Alternatives in Transfusion Medicine — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study describes our experiences in counseling donors who were enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay reactive for viral TTI, and challenges faced in implementing the donor disclosure program in a resource‐limited environment. (Source: Transfusion Alternatives in Transfusion Medicine)

Hepatitis Research May Benefit From Stem Cells

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:00:00 +0100

Hepatitis C is a viral disease that leads to inflammation and organ failure. However, researchers are puzzled as to why some individuals are very susceptible to the disease, while others are not. Researchers believe they could find out how genetic variations produce these different responses by investigating liver cells from different individuals in the lab. However, liver cells are hard to obtain and extremely challenging to grow in a lab dish as they often lose their normal function and structure when removed from the body... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Vertex Posts 4Q Profit on Growing Incivek Sales

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:08:43 +0100

From Associated Press (February 2, 2012) CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- Drugmaker Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. said Thursday it turned a profit in the fourth quarter on sales of its hepatitis C pill Incivek, which was approved in May. Vertex reported a profit... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

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Stem Cells Could Drive Hepatitis Research Forward

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Hepatitis C, an infectious disease that can cause inflammation and organ failure, has different effects on different people. But no one is sure why some people are very susceptible to the infection, while others are resistant. Scientists believe that if they could study liver cells from different people in the lab, they could determine how genetic differences produce these varying responses. However, liver cells are difficult to obtain and notoriously difficult to grow in a lab dish because they tend to lose their normal structure and function when removed from the body... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Malaria's Global Death Toll Much Higher Than Thought

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Malaria's Global Death Toll Much Higher Than ThoughtCategory: Health NewsCreated: 2/3/2012 10:05:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 2/3/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

One-Pot Synthesis of Dibenzo[b,e][1,4]diazepin-1-ones

Synthesis — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

SynthesisDOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1289691AbstractA simple and efficient method for the synthesis of wide range of 3,3-dimethyl-11-alkyl or aryl 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-dibenzo[b,e][1,4]diazepin-1-ones, recently reported as hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5B polymerase inhibitors, is presented. The proposed method consists of one-pot condensation between 1,2-phenylenediamine and 5,5-dimethylcyclohexane-1,3-dione (dimedone) followed by cyclization with various alkyl and aryl acyl chlorides catalyzed by Er(III) triflate. With respect to methods previously reported, the proposed one-pot procedure furnishes appreciably higher yield of product in shorter reaction time.[...]© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart ˙ New YorkArticle in Thieme eJournals:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: Syn...

UCLA researchers identify peptide that inhibits replication of hepatitis C virus

UCLA Newsroom: Health Sciences — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:00:00 +0100

Researchers from UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a cell-permeable peptide that inhibits a hepatitis C virus protein and blocks the viral replication that can lead to liver cancer and cirrhosis. The finding by Dr. Samuel French, a UCLA assistant professor of pathology and senior author of the research, builds on previous work by French's laboratory that identified two cellular proteins that are important factors in hepatitis C virus infection. In that earlier research, French and his team set out to identify the cellular factors involved in hepatitis C replication. Using mass spectrometry, they found that heat-shock proteins (HSPs) 40 and 70 were important for viral infection. HSP 70 was previously known to be involved, but the study linked HSP 40 fo...

Interleukin-1β enhances the production of soluble MICA in human hepatocellular carcinoma

Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:58:29 +0100

In this study, we investigated the immunoregulatory role of IL-1β in the production of soluble MICA of HCC cells. First, we investigated the correlation between the serum IL-1β levels and soluble MICA in CH patients. Serum IL-1β levels were associated with soluble MICA levels in CH patients. The serum IL-1β levels of CH patients with the HCC occurrence were significantly higher than those of CH patients without HCC. We next examined the MICA production of IL-1β-treated HCC cells. Addition of IL-1β resulted in significant increase in the production of soluble MICA in HepG2 and PLC/PRF/5 cells, human HCC cells. But soluble MICA was not detected in both non-treated and IL-1β-treated normal hepatocytes. Addition of IL-1β did not increase the expressions of membrane-bound MICA on ...

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Thin‐layer chromatography immunostaining in detecting anti‐phospholipid antibodies in seronegative anti‐phospholipid syndrome

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:18:29 +0100

SummaryIn clinical practice it is possible to find patients with clinical signs suggestive of anti‐phospholipid syndrome (APS) who are persistently negative for the routinely used anti‐phospholipid antibodies (aPL). Therefore, the term proposed for these cases was seronegative APS (SN‐APS). We investigated the clinical usefulness of thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) immunostaining in detecting serum aPL in patients presenting clinical features of SN‐APS. Sera from 36 patients with SN‐APS, 19 patients with APS, 18 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 20 anti‐hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐positive subjects and 32 healthy controls were examined for aPL using TLC immunostaining. Anti‐β2‐glycoprotein‐I, anti‐annexin II, anti‐annexin V and anti‐prothrombin antib...

sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, Bactrim, Septra

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, Bactrim, SeptraCategory: MedicationsCreated: 12/31/1997Last Editorial Review: 2/2/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

Recipient IL28B Polymorphism Is an Important Independent Predictor of Posttransplant Diabetes Mellitus in Liver Transplant Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C

American Journal of Transplantation — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

IL28B polymorphisms are strongly associated with response to treatment for HCV infection. IL28B acts on interferon‐stimulated genes via the JAK‐STAT pathway, which has been implicated in development of insulin resistance. We investigated whether IL28B polymorphisms are associated with posttransplant diabetes mellitus (DM). Consecutive HCV patients who underwent liver transplantation between 1–1995 and 1–2011 were studied. Genotyping of the polymorphism rs12979860 was performed on DNA collected from donors and recipients. Posttransplant DM was screened for by fasting blood glucoses every 1–3 months. Of 221 included patients, 69 developed posttransplant DM (31%). Twenty‐two patients with recipient IL28B genotype TT (48%), 25 with IL28B genotype CT (25%) and 22 with IL28B genotype...

Impact of Sirolimus Duration on Hepatitis C Related Fibrosis Progression in Liver Transplant Recipients

American Journal of Transplantation — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: American Journal of Transplantation)

Early viral load and recipient IL28B rs12979860 genotype are predictors for progression of hepatitis C after liver transplantation

Liver Transplantation — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractThere have been few studies of detailed viral kinetics following liver transplantation (LT) and conflicting data have been reported on viral load and severity of recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) disease. This long‐term study aimed to examine (1) the impact of HCV RNA levels at specific points in time within the first year and (2) the influence of IL28B genotype on patient outcome and severity of recurrent HCV disease. Viral load was measured at week 2, 4, 12, 24 and 48 following LT and recipient / donor IL28B genotypes of 164 patients were determined. Cox‐regression analysis showed that viral load at week 2 was an independent negative predictor of recipient outcome. A week 2 viral load of = 6.0 log10 IU/mL was significantly associated with reduced patient survival. After a mea...

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Clinical features of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hepatitis C infection.

Braz J Med Biol Res — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Greca LF, Pinto LC, Rados DR, Canani LH, Gross JL PMID: 22286533 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Braz J Med Biol Res)

What Is Killing People With Hepatitis C Virus Infection?What Is Killing People With Hepatitis C Virus Infection?

Medscape Today Headlines — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

What is it about hepatitis C that makes it such a potentially deadly disease? This new study takes a close look at the disease. Seminars in Liver Disease (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Pediatricians' Group Recommends HPV Vaccine for Boys

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Pediatricians' Group Recommends HPV Vaccine for BoysCategory: Health NewsCreated: 2/1/2012 10:06:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

MIT: Stem cells could drive hepatitis research forward

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Researchers produce liver-like cells from induced pluripotent stem cells. By creating liver-like cells, scientists can study why people respond differently to Hepatitis C. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

HCV core and NS3 proteins manipulate human blood-derived dendritic cell development and promote Th 17 differentiation

International Immunology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, we examined the effect of HCV proteins on the differentiation of human peripheral blood monocytes to dendritic cells (DCs). The HCV core (HCVc) and non-structural 3 (NS3) proteins inhibited the expression of CD1a, CD1b and DC-SIGN during monocyte differentiation to DCs, while increasing some markers characteristic of macrophages (CD14 and HLA-DR) and also PD-L1 expression. Meanwhile, HCVc and NS3 could induce differentiating monocytes to secrete IL-10. However, anti-IL-10 mAb could not reverse HCVc and NS3 inhibition of monocyte differentiation into DCs. The HCVc and NS3 proteins increased IL-6 secretion both in immature and in fully differentiated DCs and also promoted CD4+ T-cell IL-17 production. Since Th 17 cells are active in many examples of immunopathology, these effe...

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UK consensus guidelines for the use of the protease inhibitors boceprevir and telaprevir in genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C infected patients

Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsThese UK Consensus guidelines indicate the current best practice for the use of boceprevir and telaprevir in the management of genotype 1 chronic HCV infection. (Source: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Immigrant patients with chronic hepatitis C and advanced fibrosis have a higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma

Journal of Viral Hepatitis — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Summary. To explore the impact of the differences in baseline characteristics between immigrants with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and native‐born patients on the prognosis of advanced fibrosis. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 318 patients (including 128 immigrants) with CHC and advanced fibrosis attending a tertiary referral clinic. Patients’ medical records were reviewed to collect data describing immigrant status, baseline characteristics, and liver‐related clinical outcomes. Kaplan–Meier (KM) analyses and Cox proportional‐hazards regression analyses were performed to explore the differences between the two groups with respect to clinical outcomes. Relative to native‐born patients, immigrant patients were older, more likely to be female, and more likely to be A...

Non-invasive assessment of fibrosis using color Doppler ultrasound in patients with hepatitis C virus in the Amazon rainforest, Brazil.

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Leão J, Brock M, Castilho M, Scariot A, Scariot A, Braga W Abstract Abstract. The purpose of this study was to correlate morphologic and hemodynamic Doppler ultrasound findings as indicators of the degree of inflammation and fibrosis and to diagnose chronic vital hepatitis complications and progression. A prospective, descriptive study of a case series was conducted that analyzed Doppler ultrasound images of the liver and portal system and used the portal vein congestion index, hepatic and splenic artery impedance indices, and the liver vascular index. Of 50 patients positive for antibodies against hepatitis C virus, morphologic changes highlighted increased hepatic parenchyma echogenicity in 24%, and increased gall blander echogenicity and wall thickness in 4%. The most ...

HCV burden of infection in Egypt: results from a nationwide survey

Journal of Viral Hepatitis — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study confirmed on a nationwide representative sample the very high HCV antibody prevalence in Egypt. It stresses the urgent need for strengthening prevention efforts, and bringing down the costs of antiviral drugs for countries like Egypt, where the people in the most precarious situations are also those most likely to be infected by the virus. (Source: Journal of Viral Hepatitis)

Stem Cells May Further Hepatitis C Research

MedlinePlus Health News — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0100

Using liver-like cells, scientists hope to learn how some people resist infectionSource: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Hepatitis C, Stem Cells (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

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Electrochemical detection of hepatitis C viral NS3-4A protease

RSC - Analyst latest articles — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:08:27 +0100

Analyst, 2012, Advance ArticleDOI: 10.1039/C2AN15881G, PaperModupeola A. Sowole, Heinz-Bernhard KraatzA bioorganometallic approach to detect a viral protease making use of a ferrocene-peptide conjugate.To cite this article before page numbers are assigned, use the DOI form of citation above.The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry (Source: RSC - Analyst latest articles)

Long-term effects of treatment and response in patients with chronic hepatitis C on quality of life

BMC Gastroenterology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Main determinants of HRQL were severity of liver disease, age, gender, participating center and response to treatment. Our results do not exclude a more profound negative impact of individualized treatment compared to standard, possibly caused by higher doses and extended treatment duration in the individualized group. Antiviral therapy might have a more intense and more prolonged negative impact on females. (Source: BMC Gastroenterology)

Exiting from uncharted territory: Hepatitis C virus assembles in mouse cell lines

Hepatology — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:34:23 +0100

(Source: Hepatology)

High plasma level of nucleocapsid‐free envelope glycoprotein‐positive lipoproteins in hepatitis C patients

Hepatology — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: LVP are a mixed population of particles, comprising predominantly subviral particles that represent a distinct class of modified lipoproteins within the TRL family. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology)

CD4+ immune escape and subsequent T‐cell failure following chimpanzee immunization against hepatitis C virus

Hepatology — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Hepatology)

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Influence of HLA alleles in response to treatment with pegylated interferon‐alpha and ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C

International Journal of Immunogenetics — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The objective of this study was to analyse the possible role of HLA polymorphism of chronically infected hepatitis C virus patients in the response outcome to treatment with pegylated interferon‐alpha plus ribavirin. To that end, 144 Brazilian patients infected only with genotype 1 of the virus were treated with pegylated interferon‐alpha at 1.5 μg kg−1 in conjunction with ribavirin (1000 mg if patient weight was <75 kg and 1250 mg if >75 kg) for 48 weeks. The patients did not have concomitant HBV or HIV infections or liver disease, did not undergo previous antiviral treatment, and were followed up for 24 weeks after the end of treatment to assure they presented a sustained virological response. Patients were classified according to response to treatment in res...

UCLA researchers indentify a cell-permeable peptide that inhibits hepatitis C

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences) Researchers from UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a cell-permeable peptide that inhibits a hepatitis C virus protein and blocks viral replication, which can lead to liver cancer. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Hepatitis C virus to hepatocellular carcinoma

Infectious Agents and Cancer — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Hepatitis C virus causes acute and chronic hepatitis and can lead to permanent liver damage and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a significant number of patients via oxidative stress, insulin resistance (IR), fibrosis, liver cirrhosis and HCV induced steatosis. HCV induced steatosis and oxidative stress causes steato-hepatitis and these pathways lead to liver injury or HCC in chronic HCV infection. Steatosis and oxidative stress crosstalk play an important role in liver damage in HCV infection. This Review illustrates viral and host factors which induce Oxidative stress, steatosis and leads toward HCC. It also expresses Molecular cascade which leads oxidative stress and steatosis to HCC. (Source: Infectious Agents and Cancer)

Transmission of HCV Through Transplanted Organs and TissueTransmission of HCV Through Transplanted Organs and Tissue

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 04:00:00 +0100

How common is transmission of hepatitis C through organ donation, and what types of preventive practices can be put into place to prevent this from happening? Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

The impact of hepatitis C virus donor and recipient status on long‐term kidney transplant outcomes: University of Wisconsin experience

Clinical Transplantation — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Singh N, Neidlinger N, Djamali A, Leverson G, Voss B, Sollinger HW, Pirsch JD. The impact of hepatitis C virus donor and recipient status on long‐term kidney transplant outcomes: University of Wisconsin experience.  Clin Transplant 2012 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01583.x.  © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.Abstract: The survival benefit of transplanting hepatitis C (HCV)‐positive donor kidneys into HCV‐positive recipients remains uncertain. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of HCV‐status of the donor (D) kidney on the long‐term outcomes in kidney transplant recipients (R). We evaluated 2169 consecutive recipients of deceased‐donor kidney transplants performed between 1991 and 2007. The following HCV cohorts were identified: D−/R− (n = 1897),...

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Genetic polymorphism in cyclooxygenase‐2 promoter affects hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C

Journal of Viral Hepatitis — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, the ‐1195GG genotype in COX‐2 is a genetic marker for liver disease progression, while the PNPLA3 genotypes are not associated with disease progression in Japanese patients with chronic hepatitis C. (Source: Journal of Viral Hepatitis)

[Seminar] The cryoglobulinaemias

LANCET — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Cryoglobulins are immunoglobulins that precipitate in vitro at temperatures less than 37°C and produce organ damage through two main pathways: vascular sludging (hyperviscosity syndrome, mainly in type I cryoglobulinaemia) and immune-mediated mechanisms (principally vasculitis, in mixed cryoglobulinaemia). Cryoglobulinaemia is associated with many illnesses, which can be broadly grouped into infections, autoimmune disorders, and malignancies; the most common cause is infection with hepatitis C virus. (Source: LANCET)

Osteopontin, an oxidant stress sensitive cytokine, up‐regulates collagen‐I via integrin αVβ3 engagement and PI3K/pAkt/NFκB signaling

Hepatology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:20:36 +0100

Conclusion: OPN emerges as a key cytokine within the ECM protein network driving the increase in Collagen‐I protein contributing to scarring and liver fibrosis. (HEPATOLOGY 2012) (Source: Hepatology)

Myeloid suppressor cells induced by hepatitis C virus suppress T‐cell responses through the production of reactive oxygen species

Hepatology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:20:06 +0100

Conclusion: These results suggest that HCV promotes the accumulation of CD33+ MDSC, resulting in ROS‐mediated suppression of T‐cell responsiveness. Thus, the accumulation of MDSCs during HCV infection may facilitate and maintain HCV persistent infection. (HEPATOLOGY 2012) (Source: Hepatology)

[Newsdesk] Research brief

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:05:13 +0100

Vaccines based on human adenovirus 5 (Ad5) induce protective immune responses against several pathogens in animal models, but the neutralising antibodies to Ad5 that most people make are likely to impair the immunological potency of such vaccines. To circumvent this potential problem, researchers have isolated more than 1000 chimpanzee adenovirus strains. Vaccine vectors derived from some of these viruses induce potent cellular immunity in mice. Moreover, in a phase 1 clinical trial, a chimpanzee adenovirus-based vector expressing non-structural hepatitis C virus (HCV) proteins induced broad, sustained T-cell responses to HCV. (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

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Liver kidney microsomal type 1 antibodies reduce the CYP2D6 activity in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection

Journal of Viral Hepatitis — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:59:28 +0100

Summary. Liver kidney microsomal type 1 (LKM‐1) antibodies have been shown to decrease the CYP2D6 activity in vitro and are present in a minority of patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. We investigated whether LKM‐1 antibodies might reduce the CYP2D6 activity in vivo. All patients enrolled in the Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study and tested for LKM‐1 antibodies were assessed (n = 1723): 10 eligible patients were matched with patients without LKM‐1 antibodies. Patients were genotyped for CYP2D6 variants to exclude individuals with a poor metabolizer genotype. CYP2D6 activity was measured by a specific substrate using the dextromethorphan/dextrorphan metabolic ratio to classify patients into four activity phenotypes. All patients had a CYP2D6 extensive metabolizer genotyp...

Bristol-Myers Squibb Delivers Solid Fourth Quarter Capping a Year Highlighted by New Product Approvals, Continued Execution of Strategic Transactions and Good Operating Performance

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:23:23 +0100

Net Sales Rise 7% to $5.5 Billion in Fourth Quarter GAAP EPS Increases 79% to $0.50 in the Fourth Quarter; Non-GAAP EPS Increases 13% to $0.53 Demonstrates Commitment to Hepatitis C with Planned Acquisition of Inhibitex Provides 2012 GAAP and... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

Identification Of Entry Point For Hepatitis C Infection

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

A molecule embedded in the membrane of human liver cells that aids in cholesterol absorption also allows the entry of hepatitis C virus, the first step in hepatitis C infection, according to research at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. The cholesterol receptor offers a promising new target for anti-viral therapy, for which an approved drug may already exist, say the researchers, whose findings were reported online in advance of publication in Nature Medicine. An estimated 4... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Polymorphism of the TLR4 Gene Reduces the Risk of Hepatitis C Virus-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Oncology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The TLR4 rs2148356 T allele is associated with a reduced risk of HCC and could slow down its clinical progression in HCV-induced chronic liver disease. PMID: 22286521 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Oncology)

Health Highlights: Jan. 24, 2012

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Health Highlights: Jan. 24, 2012Category: Health NewsCreated: 1/24/2012 2:05:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/25/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

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Inhibition of hepcidin transcription by growth factors

Hepatology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:HGF and EGF suppress hepatic hepcidin synthesis, in part through PI3 kinase MEK/ERK kinase pathways which may be modulating the nuclear localization of BMP pathway transcriptional regulators including activated Smads1/5/8 and the co‐repressor TGIF. EGF, HGF and possibly other growth factors that activate similar pathways may contribute to hepcidin suppression in chronic liver diseases, promote iron accumulation in the liver and exacerbate the destructive disease processes. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology)

Liver progenitor cell markers correlate with liver damage and predict short‐term mortality in patients with alcoholic hepatitis

Hepatology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:LPC markers correlate positively with severity of liver disease and short‐term mortality in AH patients. This study suggests that LPC proliferation may be an important feature of AH pathophysiology. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology)

Early transcriptional programming links progression to hepatitis C virus‐induced severe liver disease in transplant patients

Hepatology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractLiver failure due to chronic hepatitis C virus infection is a major cause for liver transplantation worldwide. Recurrent infection of the graft is universal in HCV patients following transplant and results in rapid progression to severe fibrosis and end‐stage liver disease in one‐third of all patients. No single clinical variable, or combination thereof, has so far proven accurate in identifying patients at risk of hepatic decompensation in the transplant setting. A combination of longitudinal, dimensionality reduction, and categorical analysis of the transcriptome from 111 liver biopsy specimens taken from 57 HCV‐infected patients over time identified a molecular signature of gene expression of patients at risk of developing severe fibrosis. Significantly, alterations in gen...

Single stage and multistage classification models for the prediction of liver fibrosis degree in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection

Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:50:49 +0100

Abstract: Predicting significant fibrosis or cirrhosis in patients with hepatitis C virus has persistently preoccupied the research agenda of many specialized research centers. Many studies have been conducted to evaluate the use of readily available laboratory tests to predict significant fibrosis or cirrhosis with the purpose to substantially reduce the number of biopsies performed. Although many of them reported significant predictive values of several serum markers for the diagnosis of cirrhosis, none of these diagnostic techniques was successful in accurately predicting early stages of liver fibrosis. Therefore, in this study a single stage classification model and a multistage stepwise classification model based on Neural Network, Decision Tree, Logistic Regression, and Nearest Neigh...

HCV Management for Individuals on Methadone MaintenanceHCV Management for Individuals on Methadone Maintenance

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:00:00 +0100

This article takes an in-depth look at hepatitis C treatment options in a specialized community of people on methadone maintenance. Journal of Viral Hepatitis (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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In this issue.

European Journal of Immunology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:43:14 +0100

Authors: Abstract COVER IMAGE: The cover is based on a spinal cord histology section taken from a TNFR2(-/-) mouse adoptively transferred with TNFR2(-/-) Treg cells prior to immunization with MOG(35-55) to induce EAE. The section is stained with Luxol Fast blue to detect demyelination; Luxol Fast Red, which detects inflammatory infiltration, is the counterstain. The image is taken from the article by Tsakiri et al. (pp. 403-412) in which it is shown that TNFR2 on non-haematopoietic cells is necessary for Treg-cell suppressive activity and repression of EAE development. The colour of the image has been digitally altered for the cover. CMV: FINE TUNING THE NK-CELL RESPONSE DURING CHRONIC HEPATITIS INFECTION: Two recent studies reported on the expansion of NKG2C(+) NK cells during ch...

Serum IL-33 Levels Are Associated with Liver Damage in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C

International Journal of Photoenergy — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:18:57 +0100

This study examined the potential role of IL-33 in the pathogenic process of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) in Chinese patients. The levels of serum IL-33 and sST2 in 154 patients with CHC, 24 with spontaneously resolved HCV (SR-HCV) infection and 20 healthy controls (HC), were analyzed by ELISA. The concentrations of serum IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10, HCV loads, ALT, AST, and HCV-Ab were measured. We found that the levels of serum IL-33 in CHC patients were significantly higher than those of SR-HCV and HC but decreased after treatment with interferon for 12 weeks. More importantly, the levels of serum IL-33 were correlated with the concentrations of ALT and AST in CHC patients. The levels of serum sST2, as a decoy receptor of IL-33, were significantly higher in CHC ...

BioLineRx Signs Exclusive License Agreement For BL-8020, An Oral Treatment For Hepatitis C

Pharmaceutical Online News — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

BioLineRx, a biopharmaceutical development company, announced recently it has signed a worldwide, exclusive license agreement with Genoscience, a French company focused on viral disease therapeutics, to develop and commercialize BL-8020, an orally available treatment for Hepatitis C. BL-8020 has been developed for anti-viral therapy by Professor Philippe Halfon, Co-Founder and President of Genoscience. (Source: Pharmaceutical Online News)

Analysis of the PKR-eIF2alpha phosphorylation homology domain (PePHD) of hepatitis C virus genotype 1 in HIV-coinfected patients by ultra-deep pyrosequencing and its relationship to responses to pegylated interferon-ribavirin treatment

Archives of Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:53:26 +0100

Abstract Chronic coinfection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is among the greatest challenges facing public health worldwide. In this population, the response to hepatitis C therapy by treatment with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PEG-IFN+RBV) is lower than in HCV-monoinfected patients, particularly in those infected by HCV genotype 1. A PKR/eIF-2α phosphorylation homology domain (PePHD) within the E2 protein has been found to interact with PKR and inhibit PKR in vitro, suggesting a possible mechanism for HCV to evade the antiviral effects of IFN. The aim of this work was to analyze the amino acid conservation in the HCV-E2-PePHD and quasispecies diversity among HCV-HIV-coinfected patients exhibiting sustained virological response,...

Entry point for hepatitis C infection identified

EurekAlert! - Biology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Illinois at Chicago) A molecule embedded in the membrane of human liver cells that aids in cholesterol absorption also allows the entry of hepatitis C virus, the first step in hepatitis C infection, according to research at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)

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Permissiveness of human hepatoma cell lines for HCV infection

Virology Journal — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: We conclude that the restrictions observed later during HCV infection in these cell lines could in part be attributed to HCV-induced innate signaling. Nevertheless, the identification of two new cell lines capable of supporting authentic HCVcc infection, even at reduced levels, expands the current repertoire of cell lines amendable for the study of HCV in vitro and should aid in further elucidating HCV biology and the cellular determinants that modulate HCV infection. (Source: Virology Journal)

Natural killer cell activation enhances immune pathology and promotes chronic infection by limiting CD8+ T-cell immunity [Immunology]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Infections with HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus can turn into chronic infections, which currently affect more than 500 million patients worldwide. It is generally thought that virus-mediated T-cell exhaustion limits T-cell function, thus promoting chronic disease. Here we demonstrate that natural killer (NK) cells have a negative impact on the development of T-cell immunity by using the murine lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus. NK cell-deficient (Nfil3−/−, E4BP4−/−) mice exhibited a higher virus-specific T-cell response. In addition, NK cell depletion caused enhanced T-cell immunity in WT mice, which led to rapid virus control and prevented chronic infection in lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus clone 13- and reduced viral load in DOCILE-infected animals. Further exp...

Matrigel-embedded 3D culture of Huh-7 cells as a hepatocyte-like polarized system to study hepatitis C virus cycle.

Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, our findings describe a novel use of Matrigel to study the entire HCV cycle in a more relevant context. PMID: 22280897 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Virology)

Nucleoside, Nucleotide, and Non-Nucleoside Inhibitors of Hepatitis C Virus NS5B RNA-Dependent RNA-Polymerase

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:20:12 +0100

Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/jm201384j (Source: Journal of Medicinal Chemistry)

In this issue

European Journal of Immunology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:21:09 +0100

AbstractCover imageThe cover is based on a spinal cord histology section taken from a TNFR2−/− mouse adoptively transferred with TNFR2−/− Treg cells prior to immunization with MOG35–55 to induce EAE. The section is stained with Luxol Fast blue to detect demyelination; Luxol Fast Red, which detects inflammatory infiltration, is the counterstain. The image is taken from the article by Tsakiri et al. (pp. 403–412) in which it is shown that TNFR2 on non‐haematopoietic cells is necessary for Treg‐cell suppressive activity and repression of EAE development. The colour of the image has been digitally altered for the cover.CMV: Fine tuning the NK‐cell response during chronic hepatitis infectionTwo recent studies reported on the expansion of NKG2C+ NK cells during chronic hepatiti...

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A morphometric and immunohistochemical study to assess the benefit of an svr in hcv cirrhotic patients

Hepatology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:Cirrhosis regression and fibrosis amount decrease are frequently observed among HCV cirrhotic patients with an SVR. Despite ductular proliferation vanishing and lobular zonation restoration, portal inflammation and sinusoidal capillarization may not regress after viral eradication. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology)

Transient elastography identifies liver recipients with “non‐viral” graft disease after transplantation: A guidance for liver biopsy

Liver Transplantation — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, the dual TE cut‐off allows to accurately discriminate between absence and presence of non‐viral liver graft damage, improving the clinical management of OLT recipients in terms of selection of patients most in need of liver biopsy. © 2012 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (Source: Liver Transplantation)

Seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses among medical waste handlers at Gondar Town Health Institutions, Northwest Ethiopia

BMC Research Notes — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B and/or C viruses and associated risk factors among medical waste handlers. Results: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April, 2011 to June, 2011 in government health institutions at Gondar town. Socio-demographic and possible risk factors data from medical waste handlers were collected using pre-tested and well structured questionnaires. Venous bloods were collected and the serums were tested for hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-hepatitis C antibody using rapid Immunochromatography assay. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS software package (version16). Chi-square and Fisher exact tests were used to assess risk of association. A p-value of (Source: BMC Research Notes)

Hepatitis C virus induced insulin resistance impairs response to anti viral therapy.

World Journal of Gastroenterology : WJG — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: El-Zayadi AR, Anis M Abstract Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is an important risk factor for insulin resistance (IR). The latter is the pathogenic foundation underlying metabolic syndrome, steatosis and cirrhosis, and possibly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The interplay between genetic and environmental risk factors ultimately leads to the development of IR. Obesity is considered a major risk factor, with dysregulation of levels of secreted adipokines from distended adipose tissue playing a major role in IR. HCV-induced IR may be due to the HCV core protein inducing proteasomal degradation of insulin receptor substrates 1 and 2, blocking intracellular insulin signaling. The latter is mediated by increased levels of both tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and suppresso...

Laparoscopic splenectomy with interferon therapy in 100 hepatitis‐C‐virus‐cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism and thrombocytopenia

Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:47:11 +0100

Conclusions: Lap‐Sp permits most patients with HCV cirrhosis and hypersplenism to receive sufficient IFN therapy. Therefore, Lap‐Sp can become a strong supportive surgery for cirrhotic patients who require antiviral therapy. (Source: Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

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Predicting response to therapy in chronic hepatitis C: An approach combining interleukin‐28B gene polymorphisms and clinical data

Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:47:09 +0100

Conclusions: The rs12979860 SNP strongly predicts therapeutic response in CHC‐1 patients, and if associated with easy‐to‐obtain baseline criteria, provides a useful tool for the selection of candidates for antiviral therapy. IL28B haplotypes might improve the clinical usefulness of individual SNP. (Source: Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Liver disease in Viet Nam: Screening, surveillance, management and education: A 5‐year plan and call to action

Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:46:58 +0100

We report here the initial steps taken as part of a comprehensive approach to liver disease that will ultimately include nationwide education for health‐care providers, health educators, and the public; expansion of nationwide screening for hepatitis B and C followed by hepatitis B virus vaccination or treatment of chronic hepatitis B and/or hepatitis C; education about alcoholic liver disease; long‐term surveillance for liver cancer; reduction of infection transmission related to medical, commercial, and personal re‐use of contaminated needles, syringes, sharp instruments, razors, and inadequately sterilized medical equipment; and ongoing collection and analysis of data about the prevalence of all forms of liver disease and the results of the expanded screening, vaccination, and tre...

Finding a role for Th17 cells in hepatitis C pathogenesis

Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:46:44 +0100

See article in J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2012; 27: 273–278. (Source: Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Hepatitis C virus co-infection and sexual risk behaviour are associated with a high homocysteine serum level in HIV-infected patients.

Swiss Medical Weekly — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:24:09 +0100

CONCLUSION: In the HIV population, increased homocysteine serum level is associated with sexual risk behaviour and hepatitis C virus coinfection. PMID: 22252925 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Swiss Medical Weekly)

Common Type Of Hepatitis C Suppressed By Combination Of Oral Drugs

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0100

A new combination of investigational drugs successfully suppressed hepatitis C genotype 1 infection in a high percent of patients who had not responded to previous treatment in a study led by a University of Michigan hepatologist. The study, which was published Jan. 19 in the New England Journal of Medicine, focused on hepatitis C genotype 1, which is predominant in the United States and the most difficult to treat. Hepatitis C is a virus that infects the liver and can cause liver cancer and liver cirrhosis. It is transmitted through direct contact with infected blood and blood products... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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A Death in the Family - 10/20/99

About.com Eating Disorders — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Laura left behind a simple message, if you drink and have Hepatitis C you will die. (Source: About.com Eating Disorders)

Hepatitis C virus RNA quantitation in a nationwide French cohort of patients co-infected with HIV and HCV: Should the same test be applied to all samples?

Journal of Virological Methods — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study shows that using the same assay in multicenter trials and cohorts is still relevant due to inter-assay differences observed in HCV plasma load measurements. PMID: 22285372 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Journal of Virological Methods)

Potential Infectious Etiology of Behçet's Disease.

Herpes — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 03:30:02 +0100

Authors: Galeone M, Colucci R, D'Erme AM, Moretti S, Lotti T Abstract Behçet's disease is a multisystem inflammatory disorder characterized by recurrent oral aphthous ulcers, genital ulcers, uveitis, and skin lesions. The cause of Behçet's disease remains unknown, but epidemiologic findings suggest that an autoimmune process is triggered by an environmental agent in a genetically predisposed individual. An infectious agent could operate through molecular mimicry, and subsequently the disease could be perpetuated by an abnormal immune response to an autoantigen in the absence of ongoing infection. Potentia bacterial are Saccharomyces cerevisiae, mycobacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi, Helicobacter pylori, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Mycoplasma fermentans, but the most...

Bristol-Myers reports Phase II data of DAA therapy against HCV

Drug Development Technology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Bristol-Myers Squibb has reported the Phase II clinical trial results of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 who had not responded to prior therapy with PEG-interferon alfa and ribavirin. (Source: Drug Development Technology)

Four-Drug Therapy Wiped Out Hepatitis C Virus in Most CasesFour-Drug Therapy Wiped Out Hepatitis C Virus in Most Cases

Medscape Gastroenterology Headlines — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:13:06 +0100

Combining the experimental oral drugs asunaprevir and daclatasvir with the established treatment of peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin eliminated all traces of HCV in the blood of every volunteer, even after ribavirin-peginterferon alfa-2a treatment had already failed. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Gastroenterology Headlines)

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New drug combo for hepatitis C shows promise

USATODAY.com Health — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:18:23 +0100

A new cocktail of two investigational drugs appears to have cleared the hep C virus in people who don't respond to standard treatment. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

Hepatitis C infection identified as leading risk factor for HCC

HemOncToday.com — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:02:00 +0100

Yang JD. Mayo Clin Proc. 2012;87:9-16. (Source: HemOncToday.com)

New Drug Combo for Hepatitis C Shows Promise

MedicineNet Cancer General — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: New Drug Combo for Hepatitis C Shows PromiseCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/18/2012 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/19/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Cancer General)

A case of monoclonal immunoglobulin G1-lambda deposition associated with membranous feature in a patient with hepatitis C viral infection

Clinical and Experimental Nephrology — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:58:11 +0100

Abstract A 63-year-old man with hepatitis C virus infection was admitted to our hospital for nephrotic syndrome. Light microscopic analysis of a percutaneous renal biopsy showed thickening of the glomerular capillary walls and spike formation. Immunofluorescence revealed granular deposition of monoclonal immunoglobulin G1-lambda and C3 complement along the glomerular basement membrane. Urinary protein excretion decreased slightly after combined treatment with steroid and an immunosuppressive agent. Monoclonal immunoglobulin deposition disease with membranous feature is rare. Additional reports of such cases are needed to elucidate the mechanisms and optimal therapy for this rare entity. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s10157-011-057...

Lack of short-term increase in serum mediators of fibrogenesis and in non-invasive markers of liver fibrosis in HIV/hepatitis C virus-coinfected patients starting maraviroc-based antiretroviral therapy

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:50:56 +0100

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze serum changes in mediators of fibrogenesis and in non-invasive markers of liver fibrosis among HIV/HCV-coinfected patients starting maraviroc (MVC)-based antiretroviral therapy. Patients included in this prospective pilot study met the following criteria: (1) HIV-infection, (2) detectable serum HCV-RNA, and ((3) started MVC. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-beta1), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) were measured in serum samples at baseline and 6 months after starting MVC. AST-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) was assessed at the same time points. Twenty-four patients were analyzed. Median (IQR) serum levels at baseline and after 6 months on MVC of TGF-beta1...

Insight into the Structural Requirements of Narlaprevir-type Inhibitors of NS3/NS4A Protease Based on HQSAR and Molecular Field Analyses.

Combinatorial Chemistry and High Throughput Screening — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) analyses for 190 narlaprevir derivatives were conducted using comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA), comparative molecular indices analysis (CoMSIA) and hologram quantitative structure-activity relationship (HQSAR) techniques. Both of the best CoMFA and HQSAR models showed statistical significance for the training set and good predictive accuracy for the test set, which strongly manifested the robustness of the CoMFA and HQSAR models. The CoMFA contour maps and the HQSAR contribution maps were both presented. Furthermore, based on the essential factors for ligand binding derived from the QSAR models, sixteen new derivatives were designed and some of them showed higher inhibitory activities confirmed by our models and...

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New Drug Combo for Hepatitis C Shows Promise

Pharmacy News - Doctors Lounge — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Called 'watershed' research, study reports success with oral meds (Source: Pharmacy News - Doctors Lounge)

Preliminary Study of Two Antiviral Agents for Hepatitis C Genotype 1

New England Journal of Medicine — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:00:10 +0100

New England Journal of Medicine, Volume 366, Issue 3, Page 216-224, January 2012. (Source: New England Journal of Medicine)

A Watershed Moment in the Treatment of Hepatitis C

New England Journal of Medicine — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:00:09 +0100

New England Journal of Medicine, Volume 366, Issue 3, Page 273-275, January 2012. (Source: New England Journal of Medicine)

New Drug Combo for Hepatitis C Shows Promise

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:00:00 +0100

Called 'watershed' research, study reports success with oral meds Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Hepatitis C, Medicines (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

New Combo KOs HCV Without Interferon, Ribavirin (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Gastroenterology — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- A combination of direct-acting antiviral agents aimed at hepatitis C -- and given without standard therapy -- can lead to sustained virologic response in patients with a difficult-to-treat strain of the virus. (Source: MedPage Today Gastroenterology)

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Vaccine Against Bacterial Meningitis Shows Promise

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Vaccine Against Bacterial Meningitis Shows PromiseCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/18/2012 10:06:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/18/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

Development of a drug assay system with hepatitis C virus genome derived from a patient with acute hepatitis C

Virus Genes — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:59:20 +0100

Abstract We developed a new cell culture drug assay system (AH1R), in which genome-length hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA (AH1 strain of genotype 1b derived from a patient with acute hepatitis C) efficiently replicates. By comparing the AH1R system with the OR6 assay system that we developed previously (O strain of genotype 1b derived from an HCV-positive blood donor), we demonstrated that the anti-HCV profiles of reagents including interferon-γ and cyclosporine A significantly differed between these assay systems. Furthermore, we found unexpectedly that rolipram, an anti-inflammatory drug, showed anti-HCV activity in the AH1R assay but not in the OR6 assay, suggesting that the anti-HCV activity of rolipram differs depending on the HCV strain. Taken together, these results su...

Cardiff drug development at heart of billion-plus deal

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Cardiff University) American pharmaceutical giant Bristol-Myers Squibb has agreed the purchase of US biotech company Inhibitex, in a $2.5Bn deal which includes the promising new anti-hepatitis C drug INX-189, first designed and prepared in Cardiff University.The buy-out means Bristol-Myers will continue the development of INX-189, created by Professor Chris McGuigan at the Welsh School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Combination of oral drugs suppresses common type of hepatitis C

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Michigan Health System) A new combination of investigational drugs successfully suppressed hepatitis C genotype 1 infection in a high percent of patients who had not responded to previous treatment in a study led by a University of Michigan hepatologist. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Factors linked to severe thrombocytopenia during antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis c and pretreatment low platelet counts

BMC Gastroenterology — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Background: Baseline low platelet count ( (Source: BMC Gastroenterology)

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HIV, HEV and cirrhosis: evidence of a possible link from eastern Spain

HIV Medicine — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsOur findings show a high prevalence of anti‐HEV in HIV‐infected patients, strongly associated with liver cirrhosis. Chronic HEV infection was detected in a significant number of HEV‐seropositive patients. Further research is needed to ascertain whether cirrhosis is a predisposing factor for HEV infection and to assess the role of chronic HEV infection in the pathogeneses of cirrhosis in this population. (Source: HIV Medicine)

Effect of interferon therapy on first and second recurrence after resection of hepatitis C virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatology Research — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These results suggest that on first HCC recurrence, a curative treatment should be considered in order to prevent a second recurrence if possible. In addition, IFN therapy contributes to improved prognosis after curative treatment, even in patients with recurrent HCC. (Source: Hepatology Research)

Structural and functional topography of the human ribosome.

Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Graifer D, Karpova G Abstract This review covers data on the structural organization of functional sites in the human ribosome, namely, the messenger RNA binding center, the binding site of the hepatitis C virus RNA internal ribosome entry site, and the peptidyl transferase center. The data summarized here have been obtained primarily by means of a site-directed cross-linking approach with application of the analogs of the respective ribosomal ligands bearing cross-linkers at the designed positions. These data are discussed taking into consideration available structural data on ribosomes from various kingdoms obtained with the use of cryo-electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, and other approaches. PMID: 22257731 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta B...

[Retrospective study of risk factors of vertical transmission of hepatitis C virus.]

Anales de Pediatria — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: The effect of viremia on the risk of transmission is not clearly established, despite the importance usually attributed. Lack of viremia does not discount the risk of transmission, due to viral RNA detection can be intermittent, so it should be interpreted cautiously. Immunosuppression secondary to HIV co-infection implies a higher risk of transmission, but this effect decreases by improving immune competence by antiretroviral treatment. With regard to the birth characteristics, time after the rupture of membranes has not shown being a risk factor; being the caesarean not advisable as a good alternative to finish the pregnancy. Breastfeeding does not increase the risk, even it can be protective. This results would be justified by the low viral content of milk, its inactivation...

Immunosuppression, Liver Injury and Post-transplant HCVImmunosuppression, Liver Injury and Post-transplant HCV

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 04:00:00 +0100

Even after a liver transplant, patients can often experience a recurrence of hepatitis C. How should it be treated in this setting? Journal of Viral Hepatitis (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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End‐stage renal disease and African American race are independent predictors of mild liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection

Journal of Viral Hepatitis — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 23:28:46 +0100

Summary. Recipients of haemodialysis for end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) have a higher prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection relative to the general US population. However, the natural course of HCV infection in patients with renal failure, including African Americans (AAs) and Caucasian Americans (CAs), is not well known. We compared the degree of liver inflammation and fibrosis in AA and CA patients with HCV infection, with and without ESRD. This was a cross‐sectional study of 156 HCV patients with ESRD (130 AAs and 26 CAs) with a liver biopsy between 1992 and 2005. The control group consisted of 138 patients (50 AAs; 88 CAs) with HCV infections and a serum creatinine <1.5 mg/dL with a liver biopsy between 1995 and 1998. Specimens were graded for inflammation and fib...

How to investigate mildly elevated liver transaminase levels

Clinical Cases and Images — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:39:00 +0100

Mild elevations in the liver enzymes alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) are commonly found in asymptomatic patients. The most common cause is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (sometimes called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH), which can affect up to 30% of the U.S. population. Other common liver causes include: - alcoholic liver disease - medication-associated liver injury - viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and C) - hemochromatosis Pale stool and dark urine (click to enlarge the images). This is an example of "obstructive" jaundice with the classic constellation of tea-colored urine and clay-colored stool. Less common liver causes include: - alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (AAT) - autoimmune hepatitis - Wilson disease Extrahepatic conditions can also caus...

Potential New Therapy Approach For Hepatitis C Could Benefit 170 Million People Affected Worldwide

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0100

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have found a new way to block infection from the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the liver that could lead to new therapies for those affected by this and other infectious diseases. More than 170 million people worldwide suffer from hepatitis C, the disease caused by chronic HCV infection. The disease affects the liver and is one of the leading causes of liver cancer and liver transplant around the world. HCV is spread by blood-to-blood contact and there is no vaccine to prevent it... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Preparation and application of tea to a tritium performance testing programme

Radiation Protection Dosimetry — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

A simple, but novel technique, for adjusting steeps of black tea to produce fluids, which are visually and spectroscopically similar to urine, has been developed at the National Calibration Reference Centre for Bioassay and In Vivo Monitoring in Canada. The method uses scans of absorbance versus wavelength, in the UV–VIS range (200–800 nm) to select diluted tea steeps that simulate urine. Tea solutions (1 and 10 %) were spiked with tritium and distributed to laboratories for performance testing (PT). The PT exercise was done as in a regular bioassay programme. The results showed that all samples satisfied the pass/fail conditions of the S-106 standard of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, suggesting that adjusted tea successfully simulated urine for the tritium PT programm...

Tiling genomes of pathogenic viruses identifies potent antiviral shRNAs and reveals a role for secondary structure in shRNA efficacy [Genetics]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

shRNAs can trigger effective silencing of gene expression in mammalian cells, thereby providing powerful tools for genetic studies, as well as potential therapeutic strategies. Specific shRNAs can interfere with the replication of pathogenic viruses and are currently being tested as antiviral therapies in clinical trials. However, this effort is hindered by our inability to systematically and accurately identify potent shRNAs for viral genomes. Here we apply a recently developed highly parallel sensor assay to identify potent shRNAs for HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and influenza. We observe known and previously unknown sequence features that dictate shRNAs efficiency. Validation using HIV and HCV cell culture models demonstrates very high potency of the top-scoring shRNAs. Comparing our d...

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Stabilization of hepatitis C virus RNA by an Ago2-miR-122 complex [Microbiology]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate eukaryotic gene expression by binding to regions of imperfect complementarity in mRNAs, typically in the 3′ UTR, recruiting an Argonaute (Ago) protein complex that usually results in translational repression or destabilization of the target RNA. The translation and decay of mRNAs are closely linked, competing processes, and whether the miRNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) acts primarily to reduce translation or stability of the mRNA remains controversial. miR-122 is an abundant, liver-specific miRNA that is an unusual host factor for hepatitis C virus (HCV), an important cause of liver disease in humans. Prior studies show that it binds the 5′ UTR of the messenger-sense HCV RNA genome, stimulating translation and promoting gen...

Ketoamide Resistance and Hepatitis C Virus Fitness in Val55 Variants of the NS3 Serine Protease.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Welsch C, Schweizer S, Shimakami T, Domingues FS, Kim S, Lemon SM, Antes I Abstract Drug resistant viral variants are a major issue in the use of direct-acting antiviral agents in chronic hepatitis C. Ketoamides are potent inhibitors of the NS3 protease with V55A identified as mutation associated with resistance to boceprevir. Underlying molecular mechanisms are only partially understood. We applied a comprehensive sequence analysis to characterize the natural variability at Val55 within dominant worldwide patient strains. A residue-interaction network and molecular dynamics simulation were applied to identify mechanisms for ketoamide resistance and viral fitness in Val55 variants. An infectious H77S.3 cell culture system was used for variant phenotype characterization. We...

Chronic HCV: Comparison of Non-invasive Markers of Fibrosis Chronic HCV: Comparison of Non-invasive Markers of Fibrosis

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 04:00:00 +0100

Is there one preferred biopsy method to detect liver fibrosis in hepatitis C patients? This new study investigates. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Prevalence of hepatitis C virus genotype 1a in Japan and correlation of mutations in the NS5A region and single‐nucleotide polymorphism of interleukin‐28B with the response to combination therapy with pegylated‐interferon‐alpha 2b and ribavirin

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:31 +0100

In conclusion, HCV genotype 1a is rare in Japan. The presence of IL28B genotype TT, and more than two mutations, in the ISDR are associated with a good response to IFN therapy in patients with HCV genotype 1a. J. Med. Virol. 84:438–444, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

Quantitation of hepatitis C virus RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in HCV‐monoinfection and HIV/HCV‐coinfection

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:29 +0100

In this study, a commercial viral load assay for measuring cell‐associated PBMC HCV RNA was evaluated. HCV RNA was extracted from PBMCs, sorted CD14+, and CD19+ cells and corresponding plasma samples using the Abbott m2000 and Real‐Time HCV assay. Test performance and influence of HIV seropositivity on plasma and PBMC HCV RNA were studied. Among 51 patients, 67 and 62 unique patient samples had detectable plasma and PBMC HCV viral load, respectively. The median PBMC viral load was 535 IU/1 M cells (range 29–5,190). CD19+ cells had significantly higher viral load than CD14+ cells (median log10 HCV viral load 2.63 vs. 1.50 IU/ml; P< 0.001). Stability of PBMC viral load over time was demonstrated in untreated patients; all patients with an undetectable plasma HCV viral load aft...

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UBC researchers identify potential new therapy approach for hepatitis C

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of British Columbia) Researchers at the University of British Columbia have found a new way to block infection from the hepatitis C virus in the liver that could lead to new therapies for those affected by this and other infectious diseases. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Broadly directed virus-specific CD4+ T cell responses are primed during acute hepatitis C infection, but rapidly disappear from human blood with viral persistence

The Journal of Experimental Medicine — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Vigorous proliferative CD4+ T cell responses are the hallmark of spontaneous clearance of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, whereas comparable responses are absent in chronically evolving infection. Here, we comprehensively characterized the breadth, specificity, and quality of the HCV-specific CD4+ T cell response in 31 patients with acute HCV infection and varying clinical outcomes. We analyzed in vitro T cell expansion in the presence of interleukin-2, and ex vivo staining with HCV peptide-loaded MHC class II tetramers. Surprisingly, broadly directed HCV-specific CD4+ T cell responses were universally detectable at early stages of infection, regardless of the clinical outcome. However, persistent viremia was associated with early proliferative defects of the HCV-specific CD4+ T c...

BMS spends $2.5 billion on antiviral firm

Chemistry World | Latest News — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 07:03:05 +0100

Inhibitex acquisition is one of several recent moves in the hepatitis C market (Source: Chemistry World | Latest News)

[Thyroid and hepatitis C.]

Presse Medicale — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: El Ouahabi H, Ajdi F Abstract Autoimmune thyroid diseases are complex diseases that develop as a result of interactions between genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. IFNa therapy of chronic HCV infection is associated with subclinical or clinical thyroiditis, while the relationship between thyroiditis and virus C infection is still debated. PMID: 22251484 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Presse Medicale)

Dual behavior HCV Core gene in regulation of apoptosis is important in progression of HCC.

Infection, Genetics and Evolution — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Jahan S, Ashfaq UA, Khaliq S Abstract Hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes acute and chronic hepatitis which can lead to HCC (Hepatocelluar carcinoma) via oxidative stress, steatosis, insulin resistance, fibrosis and liver cirrhosis. Apoptosis is essential for the control and eradication of viral infections. In acute HCV infection, enhanced hepatocyte apoptosis is significant for elimination of viral pathogen. In case of chronic HCV, down regulation of apoptosis and enhanced cell proliferation not only causes HCV infection persistency in the majority of patients. However, the impact of apoptosis in chronic HCV infection is not well understood. It may be harmful by triggering liver fibrosis, or essential in interferon (IFN) induced HCV elimination. Regulation of apoptosis in hepa...

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Correlates of hazardous drinking among Veterans with and without hepatitis C. - Oser M, Cucciare M, McKellar J, Weingardt K.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 23:37:57 +0100

Hazardous drinking is a major barrier to antiviral treatment eligibility among hepatitis C (HCV) patients. We evaluated differences in substance-related coping, drinking-related consequences, and importance and confidence in ability to change alcohol use a... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

Trends in Immunologic Risk Among Kidney Transplant Recipients in the United States

Journal of Surgical Research — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 22:29:08 +0100

Introduction: Despite advances in immunosuppressive therapy, immune factors remain important predictors of graft failure following renal transplantation. However, development of a composite measure of immunologic risk is necessary to better inform clinician decision making and organ allocation policy reform. Methods: We retrospectively examined 208,560 recipients of kidney transplants from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database preformed between 1995 and 2010. Graft survival according to a composite (re-transplantation, panel reactive antibody >40%, human leukocyte antigen mismatch, recipient hepatitis C virus seropositive, and African American race) Immunologic Risk Index (IRI) was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier and log-rank methodology. Cox proportional hazards regression was ...

Response rates of standard interferon therapy in chronic HCV patients of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK)

Virology Journal — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: It is concluded that the response of antiviral therapy against HCV infection in chronic HCV patients of KPK province is 74.71%. The high response rate may be due to the prevalence of IFN-responsive HCV genotypes (2 and 3) in KPK. (Source: Virology Journal)

Central nervous system vasculitis and polyneuropathy as first manifestations of hepatitis C.

World Journal of Gastroenterology : WJG — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

We describe a case of peripheral neuropathy combined with an ischemic CNS event as primary manifestations of chronic HCV infection without cryoglobulinemia. Significant improvement was observed after antiviral therapy. We discuss the spectrum of neurological manifestations of HCV infection and review the literature. PMID: 22253526 [PubMed - in process] (Source: World Journal of Gastroenterology : WJG)

Current treatment options and response rates in children with chronic hepatitis C.

World Journal of Gastroenterology : WJG — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Wirth S Abstract Vertical transmission has become the most common mode of transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in children. The rate of perinatal transmission from an HCV-infected mother to her child ranges from 2% to 5% and the prevalence of HCV in children in developed countries ranges between 0.1% and 0.4%. Spontaneous viral clearance seems to be dependent on the genotype and has been reported between 2.4%-25%. For chronically infected patients, treatment with recombinant polyethylene glycol (PEG)-interferon α-2b and daily ribavirin has now been approved as standard treatment for children 2-17 years of age. In five large prospective studies, a total of 318 children and adolescents aged 3-17 years were treated either with subcutaneous PEG-interferon α-2b at a dose o...

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Insulin resistance and chronic hepatitis C in non-diabetic patients

Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia e Metabologia — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 00:35:00 +0100

We describe a SEA case in a 23-year old white woman with diabetes for 14 years, who was successfully treated only with antibiotics, and achieved full recovery at the fourth month of follow-up.O abscesso epidural espinhal (AEE) é uma doença incomum e o diabetes melito é o seu fator predisponente mais importante. O tratamento de escolha é a imediata drenagem cirúrgica, seguida de antibioticoterapia, entretanto, casos já foram relatados em que o AEE foi tratado clinicamente com sucesso. Descrevemos um caso de AEE em um paciente diabético tratado satisfatoriamente com uso isolado de antibióticos e que evoluiu com recuperação total no quarto mês de seguimento. (Source: Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia e Metabologia)

Reply to: insulin resistance and chronic hepatitis C in non-diabetic patients

Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia e Metabologia — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 00:35:00 +0100

IL28B rs12979860 polymorphism dose not influence outcomes of hepatitis B virus infection

Tissue Antigens — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:12:28 +0100

rs12979860 in interleukin 28B (IL28B) gene is associated with response to interferon‐α therapy and natural viral clearance in hepatitis C. The role of this polymorphism is less known in hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We evaluated whether rs12979860 was associated with outcomes of HBV infection. There were 651 individuals with persistent infection (387 with liver cirrhosis, 264 without cirrhosis) and 226 healthy individuals who recovered from HBV infection. The genotypic distributions were compared between different phenotypes pertaining to disease progression and HBV markers. The polymorphism had no association with clearance of hepatitis B surface antigen and hepatitis B e antigen, HBV‐DNA level, apparent hepatitis onset and liver cirrhosis (P > 0.05). These results suggest th...

Rituximab helpful against HCV cryoglobulinemic vasculitis

Modern Medicine — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Research funded by the National Institutes of Health shows that rituximab is an effective treatment for refractory mixed cryoglobulinemic vasculitis in patients with hepatitis C. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Treatment and follow up of children with chronic hepatitis C in Albania

Virology Journal — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The combination therapy of interferon with Ribavirin in treatment of children with chronic hepatitis C provides a higher SVR when treatment is initiated at the earliest stages of hepatic changes. Side effects of therapy are insignificant in comparison with results obtained. (Source: Virology Journal)

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Hepatitis C Knowledge and Alcohol Consumption among Patients Receiving Methadone Maintenance Treatment in Shanghai, China.

The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Considering the limited HCV knowledge and low level of HCV treatment received, effective HCV education and intervention strategies should be developed to target patients in China's MMT clinics. Moreover, alcohol screening should also be part of the routine assessments within MMT programs. Scientific Significance: This study reveals the importance of HCV testing and education among drug users in MMT clinics. PMID: 22242740 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse)

Developing a Modified Directly Observed Therapy Intervention for Hepatitis C Treatment in a Methadone Maintenance Program: Implications for Program Replication.

The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Hepatitis C treatment can be successfully integrated into a methadone maintenance clinic, and mDOT can be implemented with a methadone clinic's existing nursing and medical staff. Patients struggling with concurrent substance use and mental illness comorbidity may be successfully addressed in such settings and facilitate access to and completion of treatment through the utilization of on-site clinical services for HCV treatment and adherence support with mDOT. The exact importance of site of services and adherence support remains a significant area for future investigation. PMID: 22242700 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse)

Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis and Mixed Cryoglobulinemia after Hepatitis C Virus Infection Secondary to Glomerular NS3 Viral Antigen Deposits.

American Journal of Nephrology — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In patients with hepatitis C-negative viral load, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis could be induced by the persistence of HCV antigen in the kidney but not in hematopoietic cells. Nonlymphomatous B cell proliferation may also be induced by chronic viral stimulation. PMID: 22248563 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Nephrology)

IL28B rs12979860 polymorphism does not influence outcomes of hepatitis B virus infection

Tissue Antigens — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis and Mixed Cryoglobulinemia after Hepatitis C Virus Infection Secondary to Glomerular NS3 Viral Antigen Deposits

American Journal of Nephrology — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Am J Nephrol 2012;35:134–140 (DOI:10.1159/000335375) (Source: American Journal of Nephrology)

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The Role of Iron in Hepatitis C Infection

Current Hepatitis Reports — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:47:24 +0100

Abstract Iron overload of varying degrees is common among patients with chronic hepatitis C. The clinical significance of this iron overload is uncertain. Studies that have evaluated the effect of hepatic iron stores on the response to anti-viral treatment or on the natural history of chronic hepatitis C have found variable results depending on the technique used to measure hepatic iron stores and the degree of iron overload present among the study population. We have tried to comprehensively analyze the literature regarding the clinical interaction between iron overload and the natural history of chronic hepatitis C. The one clear relationship that emerges is that pre treatment serum ferritin inversely correlates with the odds of achieving sustained virological(SVR) respo...

Boceprevir versus Telaprevir: A New Era of Directly Acting Antiviral Therapy

Current Hepatitis Reports — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:47:23 +0100

Abstract Boceprevir (BOC or B) and telaprevir (TVR or T), two newly approved NS3/4A protease inhibitors, have revolutionized hepatitis C therapy for genotype 1 since their availability in 2011. The new regimens are highly effective in treatment naive and treatment experienced patients. They are administered three times daily, and have an extensive list of drug-drug interactions that require vigilance with drug co-administration. The phase 3 clinical trials that led to the drugs’ approval are reviewed in detail with regard to the clinical trial design, efficacy and safety data. Both drugs utilize response guided therapy (RGT) based upon rapid virological response (RVR) and extended rapid virological response, (eRVR) and depend upon defined stopping rules to minimize the r...

Prevalence and Temporal Trends of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV/AIDS Co-infection During Pregnancy Across the Decade, 1998–2007

Journal of Women — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:28:22 +0100

Journal of Women's Health Jan 2012, Vol. 21, No. 1: 66-72. (Source: Journal of Women)

Older Americans With Cirrhosis Suffer High Rates Of Disability

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Older patients with cirrhosis have significant functional disability, require twice the amount of informal caregiving, and contribute added strain on the health care system, according to U-M research published in Hepatology. Given the increase in obesity and aging of those with hepatitis C (HCV), researchers expect the prevalence of cirrhosis to climb among older Americans.. Cirrhosis is a chronic condition that causes the liver to slowly deteriorate, with scar tissue replacing healthy tissue and impairing liver function... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

New Fibrosis Classification Improves Accuracy Of Diagnosis In Hepatitis C

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0100

A new classification for diagnosing fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) has shown to be as accurate as currently used algorithms, but required no further liver biopsy. The study appearing in the January issue of Hepatology, a journal published by Wiley-Blackwell on behalf of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, details a method that synchronously combines two fibrosis tests, providing a non-invasive and more precise fibrosis diagnosis... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Distinct roles in folding, CD81 receptor binding and viral entry for conserved histidines of HCV glycoprotein E1 and E2.

BJ Cell — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

We examined the functional roles of conserved histidines located within E1 and E2. The E1 mutations, H222A/R, H298R, and H352A, disrupted E1-E2 heterodimerization and reduced virus entry. Five of 6 histidines located within the E2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) were important for the E2 fold, their substitution with Arg or Ala causing aberrant heterodimerization and/or CD81 binding. Distinct roles in E1/E2 heterodimerization and in virus entry were identified for His-691 and His-693, respectively, within the membrane-proximal stem region. Viral entry and cell-cell fusion at neutral and low pH were enhanced with H445R, indicating that the protonation state of His-445 is a key regulator of HCV fusion. However, H445R did not overcome the block to virus entry induced by bafilomycin A1 indicatin...

Risk factors for mother‐to‐child transmission of hepatitis C virus: Maternal high viral load and fetal exposure in the birth canal

Hepatology Research — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our data suggest that contamination of the fetus in the birth canal with infected maternal blood is a major risk factor for HCV MTCT, in addition to maternal HVL. To rationalize intervention by elective cesarean section, the natural history of infected children should be carefully evaluated. (Source: Hepatology Research)

Follow‐up of the 987 Blood Donors Found with Hepatitis C Virus Infection during 9–18 Years

Hepatology Research — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Individuals with undiagnosed HCV infection need to be identified and receive medical care. They have to be motivated to merit from this healthcare program. (Source: Hepatology Research)

Sarcoid Granulomas in Facial Cosmetic Filler Material: Induction by Interferon-α and Ribavirin in a Patient with Hepatitis C.

Actas Dermo-Sifiliograficas — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: López-Pestaña A, Tuneu A, Lobo C, Zubizarreta J PMID: 22244702 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Actas Dermo-Sifiliograficas)