Comorbidities and concomitant medications in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection receiving second-generation direct-acting antiviral regimens in Belgium: an observational study.

Objective: To describe comorbidities and concomitant medications in patients initiating treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens in Belgium. Methods: This was a noninterventional, observational, multicenter study of data from patient charts. Adult patients with HCV infection receiving second-generation DAA therapy were included. Comorbidities were assessed at the time of HCV treatment initiation. Concomitant medications were recorded at the time of diagnosis and at treatment initiation. Potential clinically relevant drug-drug interactions (DDIs) were assessed based on information available at www.hep-druginteractions.org. The primary objective was to describe concomitant medication use ; secondary objectives were to describe modifications in concomitant therapies and comorbidities. Results: 405 patients were included. A total of 956 comorbidities were reported by 362 patients (median, 2 ; range, 0-15). The most common comorbidities were hypertension (27.2%) ; HIV coinfection (22.5%), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (14.3%). Overall, 1455 concomitant medications were being taken by 365 patients (90.1% ; median, 3 ; range 0-16). The most common concomitant medications were psycholeptics (28.6%), antiviral agents (24.2%), and medications for acid-related disorders (21.0%) Overall, 74/365 (20.3%) patients receiving a concomitant medication required an adaptation to their concomitant medication. The medications that most frequently required change were drugs for acid-related disorders (n = 14) and antiviral drugs (n = 5) ; those that were most frequently stopped were lipid-modifying drugs (n = 25) and drugs for acid-related disorders (n = 13). Conclusion: Physicians are aware of the potential for DDIs with DAAs, but improved alignment between clinical practice and theoretical recommendations is required.

Haplotype 4 of the multiple sclerosis-associated interleukin-7 receptor alpha gene influences the frequency of recent thymic emigrants.

The receptor for the homeostatic T cell cytokine interleukin-7 (IL-7Ralpha) has recently shown genetic association to multiple sclerosis (MS). To investigate the functional contribution of IL-7Ralpha polymorphisms to the pathogenesis of MS, we correlated the IL-7Ralpha haplotypes with different T cell parameters in a group of MS patients and healthy controls. We show that carriers of one of the four IL-7Ralpha haplotypes (Hap4) show a higher expression of IL-7Ralpha (CD127) on their CD4(+) T cells, compared with noncarriers (P=0.04). Moreover, Hap4 carriers possess higher frequencies of recent thymic emigrants (RTEs, CD31(+)) in both the regulatory T cell (Treg; P=0.007) and conventional T cell (Tconv) population (P=0.0001). This effect is most pronounced within the MS population (Treg, P=0.0077; Tconv, P=0.0007), whereas in healthy controls significance was only reached for Tconv (P=0.043; Treg, P=0.11). Because previous studies showed a decreased RTE-Treg frequency in MS patients compared to healthy subjects, we here conclude that this decrease is localized within the MS population of non-Hap4 carriers. In conclusion, our findings suggest that IL-7Ralpha polymorphisms can influence T cell development and homeostasis, and thereby contribute to the altered immune regulation associated with disease development in patients with MS.

Involvement of T-cell receptor-beta alterations in the development of otosclerosis linked to OTSC2.

Otosclerosis is a common form of hearing loss, characterized by disordered bone remodeling in the otic capsule. Within the otosclerotic foci, several immunocompetent cells and immune-modulating factors can be found. Different etiological theories involving the immune system have been suggested. However, a genetic component is clearly present. In large otosclerosis families, seven autosomal-dominant loci have been found, but none of the disease-causing genes has been identified. This study focused on the exploration of the second otosclerosis locus on chromosome 7q34-36 (OTSC2), holding the T-cell receptor beta locus (TRB locus). A significantly lower T-cell receptor-beta (TCR-beta) mRNA expression and percentage of blood circulating TCR-alphabeta(+) T cells was detected in OTSC2 patients compared with controls and patients with the complex form of the disease. Further analysis illustrated more significant disturbances in specific T-cell subsets, including an increased CD28(null) cell population, suggesting a disturbed T-cell development and ageing in OTSC2 patients. These disturbances could be associated with otosclerotic bone remodeling, given the known effects of immunocompetent cells on bone physiology. These data implicate the TRB locus as the causative gene in the OTSC2 region and represent an important finding in the elucidation of the disease pathology.

Gonadal sex steroid status and bone health in middle-aged and elderly European men.

SUMMARY: The influence of sex steroids on calcaneal quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameters was assessed in a population sample of middle-aged and elderly European men. Higher free and total E(2) though not testosterone, were independently associated with higher QUS parameters. INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between QUS parameters and sex steroids in middle-aged and elderly European men. METHODS: Three thousand one hundred forty-one men aged between 40 and 79 years were recruited from eight European centres for participation in a study of male ageing: the European Male Ageing Study. Subjects were invited by letter to attend for an interviewer-administered questionnaire, blood sample and QUS of the calcaneus (Hologic-SAHARA). Blood was assessed for sex steroids including oestradiol (E(2)), testosterone (T), free and bio-available E(2) and T and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). RESULTS: Serum total T was not associated with any of the QUS parameters. Free T and both free and total E(2) were positively related to all QUS readings, while SHBG concentrations were negatively associated. These relationships were observed in both older and younger (<60 years) men. In a multivariate model, after adjustment for age, centre, height, weight, physical activity levels and smoking, free E(2) and SHBG, though not free T, remained independently associated with the QUS parameters. After further adjustment for IGF-1, however, the association with SHBG became non-significant. CONCLUSION: Higher free and total E(2) are associated with bone health not only among the elderly but also middle-aged European men.

The role of miR-155 in cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary inflammation and COPD.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a highly prevalent respiratory disease characterized by airflow limitation and chronic inflammation. MiR-155 is described as an ancient regulator of the immune system. Our objective was to establish a role for miR-155 in cigarette smoke (CS)-induced inflammation and COPD. We demonstrate increased miR-155 expression by RT-qPCR in lung tissue of smokers without airflow limitation and patients with COPD compared to never smokers and in lung tissue and alveolar macrophages of CS-exposed mice compared to air-exposed mice. In addition, we exposed wild type and miR-155 deficient mice to CS and show an attenuated inflammatory profile in the latter. Alveolar macrophages were sorted by FACS from the different experimental groups and their gene expression profile was analyzed by RNA sequencing. This analysis revealed increased expression of miR-155 targets and an attenuation of the CS-induced increase in inflammation-related genes in miR-155 deficient mice. Moreover, intranasal instillation of a specific miR-155 inhibitor attenuated the CS-induced pulmonary inflammation in mice. Finally, elastase-induced emphysema and lung functional changes were significantly attenuated in miR-155 deficient mice. In conclusion, we highlight a role for miR-155 in CS-induced inflammation and the pathogenesis of COPD, implicating miR-155 as a new therapeutic target in COPD.

Sex steroids during bone growth: a comparative study between mouse models for hypogonadal and senile osteoporosis.

SUMMARY: In this study, the role of disturbed bone mineral acquisition during puberty in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis was studied. To this end, a mouse model for senile and hypogonadal osteoporosis was used. Longitudinal follow-up showed that bone fragility in both models results from deficient bone build-up during early puberty. INTRODUCTION: Male osteoporosis may result from impaired bone growth. This study characterizes the mechanisms of deficient peak bone mass acquisition in models for senile (SAMP6) and hypogonadal (orchidectomized SAMR1) osteoporosis. METHODS: Bone mineral acquisition was investigated longitudinally in SAMP6 and orchidectomized SAMR1 mice (eight to ten animals per group) using peripheral quantitative computed tomography and histomorphometry. Additionally, the effects of long-term 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and 17beta-estradiol (E2) replacement were studied. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Student's t test. RESULTS: SAMP6 mice showed an early (4 weeks) medullary expansion of the cortex due to impaired endocortical bone formation (-43%). Despite compensatory periosteal bone formation (+47%), cortical thickness was severely reduced in 20-week-old SAMP6 versus SAMR1. Orchidectomy reduced periosteal apposition between 4 and 8 weeks of age and resulted in high bone turnover and less trabecular bone gain in SAMP6 and SAMR1. DHT and E2 stimulated periosteal expansion and trabecular bone in orchidectomized SAMP6 and SAMR1. E2 stimulated endocortical apposition in SAMP6. Moreover, sex steroid action occurred between 4 and 8 weeks of age. CONCLUSION: Bone fragility in both models resulted from deficient bone build-up during early puberty. DHT and E2 improved bone mass acquisition in orchidectomized animals, suggesting a role for AR and ER in male skeletal development.

Recent developments in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis with bisphosphonates: enhanced efficacy by enhanced compliance.

Bisphosphonates are the current mainstay of treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Although daily oral dosing is effective, it is associated with poor compliance, partly because of the pre and postdose fasting and posture requirements. This negatively impacts treatment outcomes, leading to a reduced clinical benefit. Improved, yet still suboptimal adherence has been noticed with less frequent bisphosphonate dosing e.g. once-weekly and once-monthly oral regimens. The recently approved quarterly intravenous (i.v.) injection regimen of ibandronate and yearly i.v. infusion of zoledronic acid are attractive options in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis. These regimens may assure quarterly and year long compliance.

Sex hormones, their receptors and bone health.

Sex steroids regulate skeletal maturation and preservation in both men and women, as already recognized in the 1940s by Albright and Reifenstein. The impact of gonadal insufficiency on skeletal integrity has been widely recognized in adult men and women ever since. In the context of their skeletal actions, androgens and estrogens are no longer considered as just male and female hormones, respectively. Androgens can be converted into estrogens within the gonads and peripheral tissues and both are present in men and women, albeit in different concentrations. In the late 1980s, sex steroid receptors were discovered in bone cells. However, the understanding of sex steroid receptor activation and translation into biological skeletal actions is still incomplete. Due to the complex metabolism, sex steroids may have not only endocrine but also paracrine and/or autocrine actions. Also, circulating sex steroid concentrations do not necessarily reflect their biological activity due to strong binding to sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Finally, sex steroid signaling may include genomic and non-genomic effects in bone and non-bone cells. This review will focus on our current understanding of gonadal steroid metabolism, receptor activation, and their most relevant cellular and biological actions on bone.

Survival and functional outcome according to hip fracture type: a one-year prospective cohort study in elderly women with an intertrochanteric or femoral neck fracture.

We conducted a prospective study among elderly women with a first hip fracture to document survival and functional outcome and to determine whether outcomes differ by fracture type. The design was a one-year prospective cohort study in the context of standard day-to-day clinical practice. The main outcome measures were survival and functional outcome, both at hospital discharge and 1 year later. Functional outcome was assessed using the Rapid Disability Rating Scale version-2. Of the 170 women originally enrolled, 86 (51%) had an intertrochanteric and 84 (49%) a femoral neck fracture. There were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to median age (80 and 78 years, respectively), type and number of comorbidities and prefracture residence at the time of injury. At hospital discharge, intertrochanteric hip fracture patients had a higher mortality (p=0.006) and were functionally more impaired (p=0.005). One year later, mortality was still significantly higher after intertrochanteric fracture (relative risk 2.5; 95% confidence interval: 1.3 to 5.1; p=0.008), but functional outcome among surviving patients was similar in both groups. We conclude that intertrochanteric fractures are associated with increased mortality compared to femoral neck fractures. Functional outcome differs according to fracture type at hospital discharge, but these differences do not persist over time. These differences cannot be explained by differences in age or comorbidity. To address the mechanism(s) by which intertrochanteric fractures carry excess mortality compared to femoral neck fractures, future studies in hip fracture patients should include a comprehensive assessment of the degree of frailty, vitamin D status, and fall dynamics.

Leptin receptor antagonism of iNKT cell function: a novel strategy to combat multiple myeloma.

A hallmark of bone marrow changes with aging is the increase in adipocyte composition, but how this impacts development of multiple myeloma (MM) is unknown. Here, we report the role of the adipokine leptin as master regulator of anti-myeloma tumor immunity by modulating the invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell function. A marked increase in serum leptin levels and leptin receptor (LR) expression on iNKT cells in MM patients and the 5T33 murine MM model was observed. MM cells and leptin synergistically counteracted anti-tumor functionality of both murine and human iNKT cells. In vivo blockade of LR signaling combined with iNKT stimulation resulted in superior anti-tumor protection. This was linked to persistent IFN-γ secretion upon repeated iNKT cell stimulation and a restoration of the dynamic antigen-induced motility arrest as observed by intravital microscopy, thereby showing alleviation of iNKT cell anergy. Overall our data reveal the LR axis as novel therapeutic target for checkpoint inhibition to treat MM.

Liver-derived IGF-I is permissive for ovariectomy-induced trabecular bone loss.

INTRODUCTION: Estrogen deficiency results in trabecular bone loss, associated with T-cell proliferation in the bone marrow. Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) is involved in the regulation of both bone metabolism and lymphopoiesis. A major part of serum IGF-I is derived from the liver. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of liver-derived IGF-I for ovariectomy (ovx)-induced trabecular bone loss. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mice with adult liver-specific IGF-I inactivation (LI-IGF-I-/-) and wild type mice (WT) were either ovx or sham operated. After 5 weeks, the skeletal phenotype was analyzed by pQCT and microCT. The bone marrow cellularity was analyzed using FACS technique, and mRNA levels were quantified using real-time PCR. RESULTS: Ovx resulted in a pronounced reduction in trabecular bone mineral density (-52%, P < 0.001), number (-45%, P < 0.01) and thickness (-13%, P < 0.01) in WT mice while these bone parameters were unaffected by ovx in LI-IGF-I-/- mice. Furthermore, ovx increased the number of T-cells in the bone marrow of the femur in WT but not in LI-IGF-I-/- mice. Interleukin 7 (IL-7) has been reported to stimulate the formation and function of osteoclasts by inducing the expression of receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL) on T-cells. IL-7 mRNA levels and the RANKL/osteoprotegerin ratio in bone were increased by ovx in WT but not in LI-IGF-I-/- mice. CONCLUSIONS: Liver-derived IGF-I is permissive for ovx-induced trabecular bone loss. Our studies indicate that IGF-I might exert this permissive action by modulation of the number of T-cells and the expression of IL-7, which in turn is of importance for the RANKL/OPG ratio and consequently osteoclastogenesis in the bone marrow.

Caspr1/Paranodin/Neurexin IV is most likely not a common disease-causing gene for inherited peripheral neuropathies.

Contactin associated protein 1 (Caspr1/Paranodin/Neurexin IV) is an axonal transmembrane molecule mainly localised at the paranodal junction. Since molecular alterations in septate-like junctions at the paranodes might have important consequences for the function of the nerve fiber, we considered that Caspr1 could be involved in the pathogenesis of inherited peripheral neuropathies. In this study, we physically mapped the Caspr1 gene on chromosome 17q21.1 and determined its genomic structure. We performed a mutation analysis of the Caspr1 gene in a cohort of 64 unrelated patients afflicted with distinct inherited peripheral neuropathies. Since no disease causing mutations were found, we suggest that Caspr1 is probably not a common cause of inherited peripheral neuropathies.

Exclusion of 5 functional candidate genes for distal hereditary motor neuropathy type II (distal HMN II) linked to 12q24.3.

Distal hereditary motor neuropathies (distal HMNs) are characterised by degeneration of anterior horn cells of the spinal cord resulting in muscle weakness and atrophy. Distal HMN type II is genetically linked to chromosome 12q24.3 and located within a 13 cM region flanked by markers D12S86 and D12S340. We previously excluded the human phospholipase A2 group 1B gene (PLA2G1B) as the disease causing gene. Here, we report the mutation analysis of five other candidate genes localised within the distal HMN II region: the cytoskeletal proteins paxillin (PXN) and restin (RSN); the acidic ribosomal phosphoprotein, large P0 subunit (RPLP0); a nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NME2B); and the beta 3 subunit of the voltage-gated calcium channel (CACNB3). DNA sequencing of the coding regions was performed but no disease causing mutations could be identified, hence excluding these five genes for distal HMN type II.

Dynamics and regulation of intracellular thyroid hormone concentrations in embryonic chicken liver, kidney, brain, and blood.

The intracellular thyroid hormone (TH) availability is influenced by different metabolic pathways. We investigated the relationship between tissue and plasma TH levels as well as the correlation with changes of deiodination and sulfation during chicken embryonic development. From day 14 until day 19, T3 remains unchanged in liver and kidney in spite of increasing plasma T4 and T3 levels and a slightly increased T4 availability in these tissues. During this period, the T3 breakdown capacity by type III deiodinase (D3) is high in liver but low in kidney. The TH inactivation capacity of type I deiodinase (D1), with production of inactive rT3 instead of T3, in kidney seems to be potentiated by the sulfation pathway. A sharp rise in T3 and T4 is detected in all tissues examined when the embryo switches to lung respiration. The same day, T4 content in liver is sharply enhanced and sulfation activity is decreased. So, T4 availability in liver is increased while a declined D3 activity allows for the accumulation of hepatic T3. The increase in renal T3 and T4 are more closely related to plasma TH profiles and a lack of correlation with the changes in renal D1 and D3 activity suggests that T4 and T3 content in this organ is strongly dependent on direct uptake from the blood. Despite much lower T4 levels, T3 levels in brain are in the same range as in liver and kidney and intracellular T3 even exceeds the T4 levels towards the end of development. The rise in TH content coincides with a drop in D3 activity, low sulfation activity and an increased T3 production capacity via type II deiodinase (D2). In conclusion, the current study describes the dynamics of intracellular TH concentrations in liver, kidney, and brain during chicken development and investigates their relationship with circulating TH levels and changes of deiodinases and sulfotransferases. The clear differences in intracellular TH profiles among the different tissues demonstrate that circulating levels are not necessarily representative for the local TH changes. Some of the changes in intracellular TH availability can be linked to changes in local deiodination and sulfation capacities, but the importance of these enzyme systems in relation to other factors, such as hormone uptake, differs between liver, kidney, and brain.