AIM: To examine the association between interferon(IFN) therapy and loss of hepatitis B surface antigen(HBs Ag) in inactive HBs Ag carriers. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study in inactive HBs Ag carriers, ...AIM: To examine the association between interferon(IFN) therapy and loss of hepatitis B surface antigen(HBs Ag) in inactive HBs Ag carriers. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study in inactive HBs Ag carriers, who were treatment-naive, with a serum HBs Ag level < 100 IU/m L and an undetectable hepatitis B virus(HBV) DNA level(< 100 IU/m L). All the 20 treated patients received subcutaneous PEG-IFN alfa-2a 180 μg/wk for 72 wk and were then followed for 24 wk. There were 40 untreated controls matched with 96 wk of observation. Serum HBs Ag, HBV DNA, and alanine aminotransferases were monitored every 3 mo in the treatment group and every 3-6 mo in the control group. RESULTS: Thirteen(65.0%) of 20 treated patients achieved HBs Ag loss, 12 of whom achieved HBs Ag seroconversion. Mean HBs Ag level in treated patients decreased to 6.69 ± 13.04 IU/m L after 24 wk of treatment from a baseline level of 26.22 ± 33.00 IU/m L. Serum HBV DNA level remained undetectable(< 100 IU/m L) in all treated patients during the study. HBs Ag level of the control group decreased from 25.72 ± 25.58 IU/m L at baseline to 17.11 ± 21.62 IU/m L at week 96(P = 0.108). In the control group, no patient experienced HBs Ag loss/seroconversion, and two(5.0%) developed HBV reactivation.CONCLUSION: IFN treatment results in HBs Ag loss and seroconversion in a considerable proportion of inactive HBs Ag carriers with low HBs Ag concentrations.展开更多
BACKGROUND: The availability of novel direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) represents a new era of curative hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment, with over 95% of patients infected with HCV genotype 1 achieving sustained viro...BACKGROUND: The availability of novel direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) represents a new era of curative hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment, with over 95% of patients infected with HCV genotype 1 achieving sustained virological response (SVR). Nevertheless, the majority of patients globally are unable to access these treatments because of cost and infrastructure constraints and, thus, remain untreated and uncured. DATA SOURCE: Relevant articles of peginterferon (PegIFN)-based treatments in HCV and sofosbuvir-based treatments, simeprevir, daclatasvir/asunaprevir, ritonavir-boosted paritaprevir/ombitasvir/dasabuvir, and grazoprevir/elbasvir, were searched in PubMed database, including general population and special population. RESULTS: PegIFN in combination with ribavirin remains an important and relevant option for some patients, achieving SVR rates of up to 79% in genotype 1 and 89% in genotype 2 or 3 infections, which increases for patients with favorable IL28B genotypes. Triple therapy of DAA plus PegIFN/ribavirin is effective in treating difficult-to-cure patients infected with HCV genotype 3 or with resistance-associated variants. Owing to its long history in HCV management, the efficacy, tolerability and long-term outcomes associated with PegIFN alfa-2a are well established and have been validated in large-scale studies and in clinical practice for many populations. Furthermore, emerging data show that IFN-induced SVR is associated with lower incidences of hepatocellular carcinoma compared with DAAs. On the contrary, novel DAAs have yet to be studied in special populations, and long-term outcomes, particularly tumor development and recurrence in patients with cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma, and reactivation of HBV in dually infected patients, are still unclear. CONCLUSION: In this interferon-free era, PegIFN-based regimens remain a safe and effective option for selected HCV patients.展开更多
AIM To report on the efficacy, safety and tolerability of interferon alfa-2a combined with a "low dose" of ribavirin for relapsers and non responders to alpha interferon monotherapy.METHODS Thirty-four chron...AIM To report on the efficacy, safety and tolerability of interferon alfa-2a combined with a "low dose" of ribavirin for relapsers and non responders to alpha interferon monotherapy.METHODS Thirty-four chronic hepatitis C virus-infected non-responders to interferon alfa2a monotherapy (a course of at least 3 months treatment) and 13 relapsers to interferon alfa 2a monotherapy (a dose of 3 to 6 million units three times per week for at least 20 weeks but not more than 18 months) were treated with the same dose of interferon alfa-2a used before (3 to 6 million units three times per week) and ribavirin (10 mg/ kg daily) for 6 months. In complete responders, interferon alfa-2a was administered for further 6 months at the same dose used before as monotherapy.RESULTS Seven (20.6%) of 34 non-responders stopped the combined therapy due to adverse events, including two patients with histological and clinical Child A cirrhosis. In 17/27 (63%)non-responders, the combined therapy was stopped after three months because of non-response. Ten of the 27 non-responders completed the 1;2-month treatment course. At a mean follow up of 28 months (16- 37 months)after the treatment, 4/10 (15%) previous non-responders still remained complete responders,All 13 previous relapsers completed the 12-month treatment course. At a mean follow up of 22months (9 - 36 months) after treatment, 6/13(46%) the previous relapsers were stillsustained complete responders.CONCLUSION Our treatment schedule of the combined therapy for 6 months of interferon alfa2a with a low dose of ribavirin (10 mg/kg/day)followed by 6 months of interferon alfa-2amonotherapy is able to induce a sustainedcomplete response rate in 15% of non-responders and 46% of relapsers with chronic hepatitis C virus-related liver diseases comparable to those obtained with the standarddoses of ribavirin 1000 - 1200 mg/day.Randomized prospective controlled trials using lower total amounts of ribavirin in combination with interferon should be performed.展开更多
We report a case of pericarditis and chronic inflam- matory demyelinating polyneuropathy with biological signs of a lupus-like syndrome due to pegylated interferon alfa-2a therapy during treatment for chronic hepatiti...We report a case of pericarditis and chronic inflam- matory demyelinating polyneuropathy with biological signs of a lupus-like syndrome due to pegylated interferon alfa-2a therapy during treatment for chronic hepatitis C.The patient developed moderate weakness in the lower limbs and dyspnea.He was hospitalized for congestive heart failure.An electrocardiogram showed gradual ST-segment elevation in leads V1 through V6 without coronary artery disease.A transthoracic cardiac ultrasonographic study revealed moderate pericardial effusion with normal left ventricular function.Anti-DNA antibody and anti-ds DNA IgM were positive.Neu ro logical examination revealed a symmetrical predomina ntly sensory polyneuropathy with impairment of light touch and pin prick in globe and stoking-like distribution.Treatment with prednisolone improved the pericarditis and motor nerve disturbance and the treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin improved the sensory nerve disturbance.展开更多
BACKGROUND Polycythemia vera(PV)is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by excessive blood cell production,which increases the risk of thrombosis.Ropeginterferon alfa-2b(RI)offers potential advantages over stan...BACKGROUND Polycythemia vera(PV)is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by excessive blood cell production,which increases the risk of thrombosis.Ropeginterferon alfa-2b(RI)offers potential advantages over standard therapy(ST;including phlebotomy,hydroxyurea,and aspirin)by achieving hematologic and molecular responses.However,its comparative efficacy and safety remain understudied.We hypothesized that RI would improve hematologic and molecular outcomes but may differ in safety profiles compared to ST.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of RI vs ST in patients with PV,focusing on hematologic response,molecular response,adverse events(AEs),and thrombotic risk.METHODS This Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-compliant meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials comparing RI to ST in adult PV patients.PubMed,EMBASE,ClinicalTrials.gov,and ScienceDirect were searched from inception to July 2025.Outcomes included complete hematological response(CHR),molecular response,AEs leading to discontinuation,JAK2V617F allele burden,thrombotic events,and phlebotomy frequency.Pooled odds ratios(ORs)and MD with 95%confidence intervals(95%CIs)were calculated using random-effects models.Risk of bias was assessed with Cochrane RoB 2;evidence certainty was evaluated via GRADE.RESULTS Five studies involving 477 RI and 456 ST patients were included.RI significantly improved CHR(OR=2.14,95%CI:1.18-3.88,P=0.002)and molecular response(OR=4.37,95%CI:0.99-19.38,P=0.05),with substantial heterogeneity(I²=76%and I²=93%,respectively).AEs leading to discontinuation were higher with RI(OR=3.89,95%CI:1.90-7.97,P=0.0002;I²=0%).No significant differences were observed in JAK2V617F allele burden(MD=-7.46,95%CI:-21.12 to 6.20,P=0.28;I²=90%)or thrombotic events(OR=0.93,95%CI:0.45-1.90,P=0.83;I²=0%).RI reduced phlebotomy frequency(MD=-1.52,95%CI:-2.37 to-0.67,P=0.0005;I²=0%).Most studies had low to moderate risk of bias;evidence certainty was moderate for CHR and AEs,low for molecular response and thrombotic events,and very low for allele burden.CONCLUSION RI offers superior hematologic and molecular responses compared to ST in PV but is associated with higher discontinuation rates due to AEs.Comparable thrombotic risk and reduced phlebotomy needs highlight its potential,though tolerability requires careful management.The high heterogeneity in certain outcomes and potential for publication bias warrant cautious interpretation of these findings.Further long-term studies are needed to optimize dosing and patient selection.展开更多
Background and Aims:The use of additional nucleos(t)ide analogues(NAs)without cross-resistance to previously used NAs as a rescue therapy is recommended by most international guidelines for chronic hepatitis B patient...Background and Aims:The use of additional nucleos(t)ide analogues(NAs)without cross-resistance to previously used NAs as a rescue therapy is recommended by most international guidelines for chronic hepatitis B patients with NAresistance.We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy of peg-interferon(PegIFN)alfa-2a and NA in these patients,comparing to those who switch to an alternative NA therapy without cross-resistance.Methods:In this prospective,comparative and cohort study,data were collected from the patients'hospital records.Eligible patients were those with hepatitis B e antigen(HBeAg)positivity and resistance to one or more NAs.All patients were treated with alternative NA alone or in combination with PegIFN alfa-2a for 52 weeks or 72 weeks,respectively.HBeAg seroconversion was measured at the end of follow-up(EOF;more than 104 weeks after the end of treatment).Results:Sixty-three patients were recruited to the cohort study(NAtherapy group=31 patients;combination therapy group of NA and PegIFN alfa-2a=32 patients).At the EOF,significantly more patients in the combination therapy group(13/27,48.2%)achieved primary outcome of HBeAg seroconversion than those in the NA therapy group(4/32,12.5%)(p=0.003).Four patients(14.8%)in the combination therapy group achieved hepatitis B surface antigen(HBsAg)loss and HBsAg seroconversion,but none in the NA therapy group did(p=0.039).In the combination therapy group,16 patients(51.6%)achieved HBeAg seroconversion at the end of treatment,of which,11 patients(68.8%)maintained the response until EOF.Conclusions:Adding on PegIFN alfa-2a in combination with NA therapy might be an appropriate rescue treatment option for patients who have prior NA resistance.In addition,combination therapy induced sustained off-treatment biochemical responses in these patients.展开更多
AIM: To study the differential protein profile in serum of hepatitis B patients.METHODS: Serum samples were obtained from patients with chronic hepatitis B who were receiving peginterferon alfa-2b.The serum samples we...AIM: To study the differential protein profile in serum of hepatitis B patients.METHODS: Serum samples were obtained from patients with chronic hepatitis B who were receiving peginterferon alfa-2b.The serum samples were subjected to albumin depletion and analyzed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis(2-DE).Differentially expressed protein spots were identified by electrospray ionizationquadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.Alpha2-HS-glycoprotein,complement component C3c and CD5 antigen were further analyzed by an enzymelinked immunosorbent assay and immunonephelometry.RESULTS: Nineteen patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B(CHB) were studied.These patients were followed for at least 1 year after treatment and were classified according to their treatment response: responders(n = 9) and non-responders(n = 10).2-DE and MS/MS analysis were performed to compare the serum proteins before initiating peginterferon alfa2b.From the quantitative analysis of the 2-D gel,7 proteins were detected between the two groups at different levels before treatment.Among these potential candidates,serum levels of alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein,complement component C3c and CD5 antigen-like precursor were further analyzed.In the validation phase,23 subjects,9 sustained responders and 14 nonresponders,were recruited.Interestingly,the levels of alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein and complement component C3c were elevated in the serum of the non-responders compared to the responders.CONCLUSION: Serum alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein and complement component C3c may be potential serum biomarkers in predicting the treatment response of peginterferon alfa-2b in patients with CHB prior to treatment.展开更多
AIM: To study the safety and efficacy of pegylated interferon alfa-2b, indigenously developed in India, plus ribavirin in treatment of hepatitis C virus(HCV). METHODS: One-hundred HCV patients were enrolled in an open...AIM: To study the safety and efficacy of pegylated interferon alfa-2b, indigenously developed in India, plus ribavirin in treatment of hepatitis C virus(HCV). METHODS: One-hundred HCV patients were enrolled in an open-label, multicenter trial. Patients were treated with pegylated interferon alfa-2b 1.5 μg/kg per week subcutaneously plus oral ribavirin 800 mg/d for patients with genotypes 2 and 3 for 24 wk. The same dose of peginterferon plus weight-based ribavirin(800 mg/d for ≤ 65 kg; 1000 mg/d for > 65-85 kg; 1200 mg/d for > 85-105 kg; 1400 mg/d for > 105 kg body weight) was administered for 48 wk for patients with genotypes 1 and 4. Serological and biochemical responses of patients were assessed.RESULTS: Eighty-two patients(35 in genotypes 1 and 4 and 47 in 2 and 3), completed the study. In genotype 1, 25.9% of patients achieved rapid virologic response(RVR): while the figures were 74.1% for early virologic response(EVR) and 44.4% for sustained virologic response(SVR). For genotypes 2 and 3, all patients bar one belonged to genotype 3, and of those, 71.4%, 87.5%, and 64.3% achieved RVR, EVR, and SVR, respectively. In genotype 4, 58.8%, 88.2%, and 52.9% of patients achieved RVR, EVR, and SVR, respectively. The majority of patients attained normal levels of alanine aminotransferase by 4-12 wk of therapy. Most patients showed a good tolerance for the treatment, although mild-to-moderate adverse events were exhibited; only two patients discontinued the study medication due to serious adverse events(SAEs). Eleven SAEs were observed in nine patients; however, only four SAEs were related to study medication.CONCLUSION: Peginterferon alfa-2b, which was developed in India, in combination with ribavirin, is a safe and effective drug in the treatment of HCV.展开更多
AIMS To clarify whether the lower interferon gamma (IFNγ) production by lymphocytes in patients with liver diseases is due to defects of lymphocytes themselves or of other cofactors such as interleukin-2(IL-2). METHO...AIMS To clarify whether the lower interferon gamma (IFNγ) production by lymphocytes in patients with liver diseases is due to defects of lymphocytes themselves or of other cofactors such as interleukin-2(IL-2). METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with various liver diseases were cultured with or without PHA and IL-2. The cells were harvested and counted and the su- pernatants were tested for IFNγ by a sensitive and quantitative ABC-ELISA. RESULTS IFNγ was not round in serum samples from patients as well as normal individuals. However,in supernatants of non-in- duced and induced PBMCs,IFN7 was detected by ABC-ELISA. In non-induced PBMCs (group 1),the content of IFNγ in super- natants from control,CAH,CPH and HCC was 8.72 μg/L, 5.03 μg/L,6.02 μg/L and 4.91 μg/L respectively. The pro- duction of IFNγ in liver disease was significantly decreased,com- pared to control. In group 2 in which PBMCs were stimulated with PHA,the content of IFNγ was 22.71,17.12,14.54 and 17.63 μg/L respectively. In group 3 in which PBMCs were in- duced by IL-2,the amount of IFN7 in supernatant from control (60.67 μg/L) was much larger than those from CAH (21.70 μg/ L),CPH (24.00 μg/L) and HCC (19.15 μg/L) (P<0.01). Comparing the amount of IFNγ in group 3 (IL-2-induced) with that in group 1 (non-induced),we found that IFNγ production was en- hanced by nearly 4 folds in liver diseases and by over 7 folds in control,Whereas the number of PBMCs,whether from liver dis- eases or from control,was increased by only approximately 3 folds. CONCLUSIONS The decreased production of IFNγ in liver dis- eases including HCC is mainly due to endogenous defects of lym- phocytes though the defects of stimulating cofactors such as IL-2 may also be involved.展开更多
[Objective] The research aimed to carry out the cloning, identification and sequence analysis of full-length cDNA of carp interferon γ-2β （IFNγ-2β）. [Method] The cDNA library of peripheral blood leucocytes which...[Objective] The research aimed to carry out the cloning, identification and sequence analysis of full-length cDNA of carp interferon γ-2β （IFNγ-2β）. [Method] The cDNA library of peripheral blood leucocytes which were separated from carp and stimulated with mitogen was screened by a probe labeled with DIG. The IFNγ- 2β EST sequence was picked out from the constructed cDNA library of peripheral blood leucocyte, and the full length of carp interferon γ-2β was cloned. In addition, the sequence analysis was carried out. [Result] Three positive clones were obtained. Sequence analysis indicated that the sequence had a 119 bp 5’-UTR and a 218 bp 3’-UTR, and the open reading frame （ORF）of this gene was 537 bp which putatively coded 178 amino acids and there were several instable motifs for mRNA （ATTTA） in the 3’-untranslated region. Its homology with IFN from GenBank was up to 97% . Analysis on protein sequence and structure showed that the predicted protein sequence was identified as an IFN family signature. [Conclusion] The research laid the foundation for further studying the expression manner, function characteristic and regulation mechanism of IFNγ-2β in vivo and the action mechanism in the inflammatory reaction, emergency reaction and immune response.展开更多
Infections by coronaviruses such as severe acute respiratory syndrome （SARS） coronavirus （SCoV） and mouse hepatitis virus A59 （MHV-A59） result in very little type I interferon （IFN） production by host cells, w...Infections by coronaviruses such as severe acute respiratory syndrome （SARS） coronavirus （SCoV） and mouse hepatitis virus A59 （MHV-A59） result in very little type I interferon （IFN） production by host cells, which is potentially responsible for the rapid viral growth and severe immunopathology associated with SARS. However, the molecular mechanisms for the low IFN production in cells infected with coronaviruses remain unclear. Here, we provide evidence that Papain-like protease domain 2 （PLP2）, a catalytic domain of the nonstructural protein 3 （nsp3） of MHV-A59, can bind to IRF3, cause its deubiquitination and prevent its nuclear translocation. As a consequence, co-expression of PLP2 strongly inhibits CARDIF-, TBK1- and IRF3-mediated IFNp reporter activities. In addition, we show that wild-type PLP2 but not the mutant PLP2 lacking the deubiquitinase （DUB） activity can reduce IFN induction and promote viral growth in cells infected with VSV. Thus, our study uncovered a viral DUB which coronaviruses may use to escape from the host innate antiviral responses.展开更多
AIM： To determine the efficacy of an interferon alpha and ribavirin combination treatment for Japanese patients infected with hepatitis C virus （HCV） of genotype 2, a multi-center study was retrospectively analyzed...AIM： To determine the efficacy of an interferon alpha and ribavirin combination treatment for Japanese patients infected with hepatitis C virus （HCV） of genotype 2, a multi-center study was retrospectively analyzed. METHODS： In total, 173 patients with HCV genotype 2 started to receive interferon-alpha subcutaneously thrice a week and 600-800 mg of ribavirin daily for 24 wk. RESULTS： The overall sustained virological response （SVR）, defined as undetectable HCV RNA in serum, 24 wk after the end of treatment, was remarkably high by 84.4%, （146/173） by an intention-to-treat analysis. A significant difference in SVR was found between patients with and without the discontinuation of ribavirin （46.9% vs 92.9 %）, but no difference was found between those with and without a dose reduction of ribavirin. A significant difference in SVR was also found between patients with less than 16 wk and patients with 16 or more weeks of ribavirin treatment （34.8 % vs 92.0 %）. CONCLUSION： The 24-wk interferon and ribavirin treatment is highly effective for Japanese patients with HCV genotype 2. The significant predictor of SVR is continuation of the ribavirin treatment for up to 16展开更多
Objective To explore the predictive value of baseline HBs Ag level and early response for HBs Ag loss in patients with HBe Ag-positive chronic hepatitis B during pegylated interferon alpha-2a treatment. Methods A tota...Objective To explore the predictive value of baseline HBs Ag level and early response for HBs Ag loss in patients with HBe Ag-positive chronic hepatitis B during pegylated interferon alpha-2a treatment. Methods A total of 121 patients with HBe Ag-positive chronic hepatitis B who achieved HBs Ag loss were enrolled; all patients were treated with PEG-IFNα-2a 180 μg/week. Serum HBV DNA and serological indicators （HBs Ag, anti-HBs, HBe Ag, and anti-HBe） were determined before and every 3 months during treatment. Results The median treatment time for HBs Ag loss was 84 weeks （7-273 weeks）, and 74.38% （90 cases） of the patients needed extended treatment （〉 48 weeks）. The correlation between baseline HBs Ag levels and the treatment time of HBs Ag loss was significant （B = 14.465, t = 2.342, P = 0.021）. Baseline HBs Ag levels together with the decline range of HBs Ag at 24 weeks significantly correlated with the treatment time of HBs Ag loss （B = 29.862, t = 4.890, P = 0.000 and B = 27.993, t = 27.993, P = 0.005）. Conclusion Baseline HBs Ag levels and extended therapy are critical steps toward HBs Ag loss. Baseline HBs Ag levels together with early response determined the treatment time of HBs Ag loss in patients with HBe Ag-positive chronic hepatitis B during pegylated interferon alpha-2a treatment.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the effect of pegylated interferon(IFN)α-2b on specific CD8+T lymphocytes in patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB).METHODS:Twenty-one patients with CHB were treated with pegylated IFNα-2b.Periphe...AIM:To investigate the effect of pegylated interferon(IFN)α-2b on specific CD8+T lymphocytes in patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB).METHODS:Twenty-one patients with CHB were treated with pegylated IFNα-2b.Periphery blood mononuclear cells were isolated from fresh heparinized blood by Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient centrifugation(density:1.077 g/L,Pharmingen)at weeks 0,4,8,12,and 24,respectively.Frequency of circulating hepatitis B virus(HBV)epitope-specific CD8 T cells was detected by flow cytometry.Cytokines were detected by cytometric bead assay.RESULTS:The frequency of circulating HBV core or env-specific CD8 T cells was higher(P<0.05),the number of HBV core specific CD8 T cells was greater at week 24(P<0.05),the level of Th1-type cytokines[interleukin(IL)-12,tumor necrosis factor-α,and IFN-γ]was higher,while that of Th2-type cytokines(IL-4,IL-6,and IL-10)was lower in responders than in nonresponders(P<0.05)after pegylated IFNα-2b treatment.The IL-6 level was correlated with HBV DNA(r=0.597,P=0.04),while the inducible protein-10(IP-10)level was correlated with serum alanine aminotransferase(ALT)(r=0.545,P=0.005).The IP-10 level at week 8 after pegylated IFNα-2b treatment could predict the normalization of ALT in CHB patients(positive predict value=56%,negative predict value=92%).CONCLUSION:Pegylated IFNα-2b can enhance the immune response of CHB patients by increasing the frequency of HBV specific CD8+T cells and regulating the Th1/Th2 cytokines.展开更多
Ischemic brain injury triggers an inflammatory response. tissue but can also exacerbate brain injury. Microglia are This response is necessary to clear damaged brain the innate immune cells of the brain that execute t...Ischemic brain injury triggers an inflammatory response. tissue but can also exacerbate brain injury. Microglia are This response is necessary to clear damaged brain the innate immune cells of the brain that execute this critical function. In healthy brain, microglia perform a housekeeping function, pruning unused syn- apses between neurons. However, microglia become activated to an inflammatory phenotype upon brain injury. Interferon regulatory factors modulate microglial activation and their production of inflammatory cytokines. This review briefly discusses recent findings pertaining to these regulatory mechanisms in the context of stroke recovery.展开更多
AIM： To study the amino acid substitutions in the carboxy （C）-terminal part of E2 protein and in the interferon （IFN） sensitivity determining region （ISDR） and their correlation with response to IFN and viral l...AIM： To study the amino acid substitutions in the carboxy （C）-terminal part of E2 protein and in the interferon （IFN） sensitivity determining region （ISDR） and their correlation with response to IFN and viral load in 85 hepatitis C virus （HCV）-lb-infected patients treated with IFN. METHODS： The C-terminal part of E2 （codons 617-711） including PKR/eIF2α phosphorylation homology domain （PePHD） and ISDR was sequenced in 85 HCV-1b-infected patients treated by IFN monotherapy. RESULTS： The amino acid substitutions in PePHD detected only in 4 of 85 patients were not correlated either with response to iFN or with viral load. The presence of substitutions in a N-terminal variable region （codons 617-641） in the C-terminal part of E2 was significantly correlated with both small viral load （33.9% vs 13.8%, P = 0.0394） and sustained response to iFN （25.0% vs 6.9 %, P = 0.0429）. Four or more substitutions in ISDR were significantly correlated with both small viral load （78.6% vs 16.2%, P 〈 0.0001） and sustained response to iFN （85.7% vs 2.9%, P 〈 0.0001）. In multivariate analysis, ISDR in nonstructural （NS） 5A （OR = 0.39, P 〈 0.0001） and N-terminal variable region （OR = 0.51, P = 0.039） was selected as the independentpredictors for small viral load, and ISDR （OR = 39.0, P 〈 0.0001） was selected as the only independent predictor for sustained response. CONCLUSION： The N-terminal variable region in the C-terminal part of E2 correlates with both response to IFN monotherapy and viral load and is one of the factors independently associated with a small viral load.展开更多
AIM:Interferon α2b (IFNα2b) and thymosin α1 (Tα1) exhibit synergic effects in the treatment of hepatitis B and hepatitis C when used together. For developing a fusion protein drug, fusion proteins of IFNα2b and T...AIM:Interferon α2b (IFNα2b) and thymosin α1 (Tα1) exhibit synergic effects in the treatment of hepatitis B and hepatitis C when used together. For developing a fusion protein drug, fusion proteins of IFNα2b and Ta1 linked by different lengths of (G4S)n(n = 1-3) were constructed and expressed in Pichia pastoris. METHODS: Using PCR and molecular clone techniques, the fusion genes of IFNα2b-(G4S)n-Tα1 (n = 1-3) were constructed and subcloned into the eukaryotic expression vector pPIC9. After transformation of these plasmids into P. pastoris, the expressed fusion proteins IFNα2b-(G4S) n-Tα1 (n = 1-3) were obtained. These proteins were purified through diethylaminoethyl (DEAE) affinity chromatography and Superdex?75 gel filtration and analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot. Antiviral and E-rosette assays were used to investigate the bioactivities of these fusion proteins. RESULTS: DNA sequencing confirmed that the fusion genes of IFNa2b-(G4S)n-Tα1 (n= 1-3) were correctly cloned to the pPIC9 vector. The recombinant IFNα2b-(G4S)n-Tα1 (n = 1-3) fusion proteins expressed in P. pastoris were purified with DEAE and Superdex?75 gel filtration chromatography. The fusion proteins could be observed on sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with molecular weight (MW) of 23.2, 22.9, and 22.6 ku, respectively, and reacted to the IFNa2b monoclonal antibody and Tal polyclonal antibody. The purified fusion proteins exhibit antiviral activity and can enhance the percentage of E-rosette-forming-cell in E-rosette assay. CONCLUSION: The recombinant IFNa2b-(G4S)n-Tα1 (n = 1-3) fusion proteins were successfully expressed in P. pastoris. Purified fusion proteins exhibit both antiviral activity of IFNa2b and immunomodulatory activity of Tal in vitro. These results will be the basis for further evaluation of the fusion proteins' function in vivo.展开更多
Currently available monotherapies of oral nucleoside/nucleotide analogs or interferon are unable to achieve a sustained and effective response in most of patients with chronic hepatitis B（CHB）. The objective of the ...Currently available monotherapies of oral nucleoside/nucleotide analogs or interferon are unable to achieve a sustained and effective response in most of patients with chronic hepatitis B（CHB）. The objective of the present study was to compare the efficacy and safety of pegylated interferon（Peg-IFN） alpha-2b plus adefovir dipivoxil combination therapy versus Peg-IFN alpha-2b alone. Sixty-one HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients were randomized to receive Peg-IFN alpha-2b alone（1.5 μg/kg once weekly） or Peg-IFN alpha-2b plus adefovir（10 mg daily） for up to 52 weeks. Efficacy and safety analyses were performed on all participants who received at least one dose of study medication. The rate of HBeAg seroconversion and undetectable HBV-DNA were evaluated after 52 weeks of therapy. At the end of treatment, 11 of 30（36.7%） patients receiving combination therapy achieved HBeAg seroconversion versus 8 of 31（25.8%） in the monotherapy group（P=0.36）. In contrast, the percentage of patients with undetectable serum HBV DNA was significantly higher in the combination group than in the monotherapy group（76.7% vs. 29.0%, P〈0.001）. Thyroid dysfunction was more frequent in the combination group than in the monotherapy group（P〈0.05）. In HBeAg-positive CHB, combination of Peg-IFN alpha-2b and adefovir for 52 weeks resulted, at the end of treatment, in a higher virological response but without significant impact on the rate of HBeAg seroconversion and possibly an adverse effect on thyroid function.展开更多
文摘AIM: To examine the association between interferon(IFN) therapy and loss of hepatitis B surface antigen(HBs Ag) in inactive HBs Ag carriers. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study in inactive HBs Ag carriers, who were treatment-naive, with a serum HBs Ag level < 100 IU/m L and an undetectable hepatitis B virus(HBV) DNA level(< 100 IU/m L). All the 20 treated patients received subcutaneous PEG-IFN alfa-2a 180 μg/wk for 72 wk and were then followed for 24 wk. There were 40 untreated controls matched with 96 wk of observation. Serum HBs Ag, HBV DNA, and alanine aminotransferases were monitored every 3 mo in the treatment group and every 3-6 mo in the control group. RESULTS: Thirteen(65.0%) of 20 treated patients achieved HBs Ag loss, 12 of whom achieved HBs Ag seroconversion. Mean HBs Ag level in treated patients decreased to 6.69 ± 13.04 IU/m L after 24 wk of treatment from a baseline level of 26.22 ± 33.00 IU/m L. Serum HBV DNA level remained undetectable(< 100 IU/m L) in all treated patients during the study. HBs Ag level of the control group decreased from 25.72 ± 25.58 IU/m L at baseline to 17.11 ± 21.62 IU/m L at week 96(P = 0.108). In the control group, no patient experienced HBs Ag loss/seroconversion, and two(5.0%) developed HBV reactivation.CONCLUSION: IFN treatment results in HBs Ag loss and seroconversion in a considerable proportion of inactive HBs Ag carriers with low HBs Ag concentrations.
文摘BACKGROUND: The availability of novel direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) represents a new era of curative hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment, with over 95% of patients infected with HCV genotype 1 achieving sustained virological response (SVR). Nevertheless, the majority of patients globally are unable to access these treatments because of cost and infrastructure constraints and, thus, remain untreated and uncured. DATA SOURCE: Relevant articles of peginterferon (PegIFN)-based treatments in HCV and sofosbuvir-based treatments, simeprevir, daclatasvir/asunaprevir, ritonavir-boosted paritaprevir/ombitasvir/dasabuvir, and grazoprevir/elbasvir, were searched in PubMed database, including general population and special population. RESULTS: PegIFN in combination with ribavirin remains an important and relevant option for some patients, achieving SVR rates of up to 79% in genotype 1 and 89% in genotype 2 or 3 infections, which increases for patients with favorable IL28B genotypes. Triple therapy of DAA plus PegIFN/ribavirin is effective in treating difficult-to-cure patients infected with HCV genotype 3 or with resistance-associated variants. Owing to its long history in HCV management, the efficacy, tolerability and long-term outcomes associated with PegIFN alfa-2a are well established and have been validated in large-scale studies and in clinical practice for many populations. Furthermore, emerging data show that IFN-induced SVR is associated with lower incidences of hepatocellular carcinoma compared with DAAs. On the contrary, novel DAAs have yet to be studied in special populations, and long-term outcomes, particularly tumor development and recurrence in patients with cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma, and reactivation of HBV in dually infected patients, are still unclear. CONCLUSION: In this interferon-free era, PegIFN-based regimens remain a safe and effective option for selected HCV patients.
文摘AIM To report on the efficacy, safety and tolerability of interferon alfa-2a combined with a "low dose" of ribavirin for relapsers and non responders to alpha interferon monotherapy.METHODS Thirty-four chronic hepatitis C virus-infected non-responders to interferon alfa2a monotherapy (a course of at least 3 months treatment) and 13 relapsers to interferon alfa 2a monotherapy (a dose of 3 to 6 million units three times per week for at least 20 weeks but not more than 18 months) were treated with the same dose of interferon alfa-2a used before (3 to 6 million units three times per week) and ribavirin (10 mg/ kg daily) for 6 months. In complete responders, interferon alfa-2a was administered for further 6 months at the same dose used before as monotherapy.RESULTS Seven (20.6%) of 34 non-responders stopped the combined therapy due to adverse events, including two patients with histological and clinical Child A cirrhosis. In 17/27 (63%)non-responders, the combined therapy was stopped after three months because of non-response. Ten of the 27 non-responders completed the 1;2-month treatment course. At a mean follow up of 28 months (16- 37 months)after the treatment, 4/10 (15%) previous non-responders still remained complete responders,All 13 previous relapsers completed the 12-month treatment course. At a mean follow up of 22months (9 - 36 months) after treatment, 6/13(46%) the previous relapsers were stillsustained complete responders.CONCLUSION Our treatment schedule of the combined therapy for 6 months of interferon alfa2a with a low dose of ribavirin (10 mg/kg/day)followed by 6 months of interferon alfa-2amonotherapy is able to induce a sustainedcomplete response rate in 15% of non-responders and 46% of relapsers with chronic hepatitis C virus-related liver diseases comparable to those obtained with the standarddoses of ribavirin 1000 - 1200 mg/day.Randomized prospective controlled trials using lower total amounts of ribavirin in combination with interferon should be performed.
文摘We report a case of pericarditis and chronic inflam- matory demyelinating polyneuropathy with biological signs of a lupus-like syndrome due to pegylated interferon alfa-2a therapy during treatment for chronic hepatitis C.The patient developed moderate weakness in the lower limbs and dyspnea.He was hospitalized for congestive heart failure.An electrocardiogram showed gradual ST-segment elevation in leads V1 through V6 without coronary artery disease.A transthoracic cardiac ultrasonographic study revealed moderate pericardial effusion with normal left ventricular function.Anti-DNA antibody and anti-ds DNA IgM were positive.Neu ro logical examination revealed a symmetrical predomina ntly sensory polyneuropathy with impairment of light touch and pin prick in globe and stoking-like distribution.Treatment with prednisolone improved the pericarditis and motor nerve disturbance and the treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin improved the sensory nerve disturbance.
文摘BACKGROUND Polycythemia vera(PV)is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by excessive blood cell production,which increases the risk of thrombosis.Ropeginterferon alfa-2b(RI)offers potential advantages over standard therapy(ST;including phlebotomy,hydroxyurea,and aspirin)by achieving hematologic and molecular responses.However,its comparative efficacy and safety remain understudied.We hypothesized that RI would improve hematologic and molecular outcomes but may differ in safety profiles compared to ST.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of RI vs ST in patients with PV,focusing on hematologic response,molecular response,adverse events(AEs),and thrombotic risk.METHODS This Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-compliant meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials comparing RI to ST in adult PV patients.PubMed,EMBASE,ClinicalTrials.gov,and ScienceDirect were searched from inception to July 2025.Outcomes included complete hematological response(CHR),molecular response,AEs leading to discontinuation,JAK2V617F allele burden,thrombotic events,and phlebotomy frequency.Pooled odds ratios(ORs)and MD with 95%confidence intervals(95%CIs)were calculated using random-effects models.Risk of bias was assessed with Cochrane RoB 2;evidence certainty was evaluated via GRADE.RESULTS Five studies involving 477 RI and 456 ST patients were included.RI significantly improved CHR(OR=2.14,95%CI:1.18-3.88,P=0.002)and molecular response(OR=4.37,95%CI:0.99-19.38,P=0.05),with substantial heterogeneity(I²=76%and I²=93%,respectively).AEs leading to discontinuation were higher with RI(OR=3.89,95%CI:1.90-7.97,P=0.0002;I²=0%).No significant differences were observed in JAK2V617F allele burden(MD=-7.46,95%CI:-21.12 to 6.20,P=0.28;I²=90%)or thrombotic events(OR=0.93,95%CI:0.45-1.90,P=0.83;I²=0%).RI reduced phlebotomy frequency(MD=-1.52,95%CI:-2.37 to-0.67,P=0.0005;I²=0%).Most studies had low to moderate risk of bias;evidence certainty was moderate for CHR and AEs,low for molecular response and thrombotic events,and very low for allele burden.CONCLUSION RI offers superior hematologic and molecular responses compared to ST in PV but is associated with higher discontinuation rates due to AEs.Comparable thrombotic risk and reduced phlebotomy needs highlight its potential,though tolerability requires careful management.The high heterogeneity in certain outcomes and potential for publication bias warrant cautious interpretation of these findings.Further long-term studies are needed to optimize dosing and patient selection.
基金The study was supported by the Third People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, China
文摘Background and Aims:The use of additional nucleos(t)ide analogues(NAs)without cross-resistance to previously used NAs as a rescue therapy is recommended by most international guidelines for chronic hepatitis B patients with NAresistance.We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy of peg-interferon(PegIFN)alfa-2a and NA in these patients,comparing to those who switch to an alternative NA therapy without cross-resistance.Methods:In this prospective,comparative and cohort study,data were collected from the patients'hospital records.Eligible patients were those with hepatitis B e antigen(HBeAg)positivity and resistance to one or more NAs.All patients were treated with alternative NA alone or in combination with PegIFN alfa-2a for 52 weeks or 72 weeks,respectively.HBeAg seroconversion was measured at the end of follow-up(EOF;more than 104 weeks after the end of treatment).Results:Sixty-three patients were recruited to the cohort study(NAtherapy group=31 patients;combination therapy group of NA and PegIFN alfa-2a=32 patients).At the EOF,significantly more patients in the combination therapy group(13/27,48.2%)achieved primary outcome of HBeAg seroconversion than those in the NA therapy group(4/32,12.5%)(p=0.003).Four patients(14.8%)in the combination therapy group achieved hepatitis B surface antigen(HBsAg)loss and HBsAg seroconversion,but none in the NA therapy group did(p=0.039).In the combination therapy group,16 patients(51.6%)achieved HBeAg seroconversion at the end of treatment,of which,11 patients(68.8%)maintained the response until EOF.Conclusions:Adding on PegIFN alfa-2a in combination with NA therapy might be an appropriate rescue treatment option for patients who have prior NA resistance.In addition,combination therapy induced sustained off-treatment biochemical responses in these patients.
基金Supported by The 90th Anniversary of Chulalongkorn University Fund(Ratchadaphiseksomphot Endowment Fund)The Thailand Research Fund,No.RMU5180051+2 种基金The Thailand Research Fund Senior Research Scholarship,No.RTA5380005The Higher Education Research Promotion and National Research University Project of Thailand,Office of the Higher Education Commission,No.HR1163AIntegrated Innovation Academic Center,Chulalongkorn University Centenary Academic Development Project,No.CU56-HR05,The Liver Research Unit,Chulalongkorn University
文摘AIM: To study the differential protein profile in serum of hepatitis B patients.METHODS: Serum samples were obtained from patients with chronic hepatitis B who were receiving peginterferon alfa-2b.The serum samples were subjected to albumin depletion and analyzed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis(2-DE).Differentially expressed protein spots were identified by electrospray ionizationquadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.Alpha2-HS-glycoprotein,complement component C3c and CD5 antigen were further analyzed by an enzymelinked immunosorbent assay and immunonephelometry.RESULTS: Nineteen patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B(CHB) were studied.These patients were followed for at least 1 year after treatment and were classified according to their treatment response: responders(n = 9) and non-responders(n = 10).2-DE and MS/MS analysis were performed to compare the serum proteins before initiating peginterferon alfa2b.From the quantitative analysis of the 2-D gel,7 proteins were detected between the two groups at different levels before treatment.Among these potential candidates,serum levels of alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein,complement component C3c and CD5 antigen-like precursor were further analyzed.In the validation phase,23 subjects,9 sustained responders and 14 nonresponders,were recruited.Interestingly,the levels of alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein and complement component C3c were elevated in the serum of the non-responders compared to the responders.CONCLUSION: Serum alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein and complement component C3c may be potential serum biomarkers in predicting the treatment response of peginterferon alfa-2b in patients with CHB prior to treatment.
基金Supported by Virchow Biotech Private Limited,Hyderabad,India
文摘AIM: To study the safety and efficacy of pegylated interferon alfa-2b, indigenously developed in India, plus ribavirin in treatment of hepatitis C virus(HCV). METHODS: One-hundred HCV patients were enrolled in an open-label, multicenter trial. Patients were treated with pegylated interferon alfa-2b 1.5 μg/kg per week subcutaneously plus oral ribavirin 800 mg/d for patients with genotypes 2 and 3 for 24 wk. The same dose of peginterferon plus weight-based ribavirin(800 mg/d for ≤ 65 kg; 1000 mg/d for > 65-85 kg; 1200 mg/d for > 85-105 kg; 1400 mg/d for > 105 kg body weight) was administered for 48 wk for patients with genotypes 1 and 4. Serological and biochemical responses of patients were assessed.RESULTS: Eighty-two patients(35 in genotypes 1 and 4 and 47 in 2 and 3), completed the study. In genotype 1, 25.9% of patients achieved rapid virologic response(RVR): while the figures were 74.1% for early virologic response(EVR) and 44.4% for sustained virologic response(SVR). For genotypes 2 and 3, all patients bar one belonged to genotype 3, and of those, 71.4%, 87.5%, and 64.3% achieved RVR, EVR, and SVR, respectively. In genotype 4, 58.8%, 88.2%, and 52.9% of patients achieved RVR, EVR, and SVR, respectively. The majority of patients attained normal levels of alanine aminotransferase by 4-12 wk of therapy. Most patients showed a good tolerance for the treatment, although mild-to-moderate adverse events were exhibited; only two patients discontinued the study medication due to serious adverse events(SAEs). Eleven SAEs were observed in nine patients; however, only four SAEs were related to study medication.CONCLUSION: Peginterferon alfa-2b, which was developed in India, in combination with ribavirin, is a safe and effective drug in the treatment of HCV.
基金Supported by National Science Fundation of China.No.89138970378.
文摘AIMS To clarify whether the lower interferon gamma (IFNγ) production by lymphocytes in patients with liver diseases is due to defects of lymphocytes themselves or of other cofactors such as interleukin-2(IL-2). METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with various liver diseases were cultured with or without PHA and IL-2. The cells were harvested and counted and the su- pernatants were tested for IFNγ by a sensitive and quantitative ABC-ELISA. RESULTS IFNγ was not round in serum samples from patients as well as normal individuals. However,in supernatants of non-in- duced and induced PBMCs,IFN7 was detected by ABC-ELISA. In non-induced PBMCs (group 1),the content of IFNγ in super- natants from control,CAH,CPH and HCC was 8.72 μg/L, 5.03 μg/L,6.02 μg/L and 4.91 μg/L respectively. The pro- duction of IFNγ in liver disease was significantly decreased,com- pared to control. In group 2 in which PBMCs were stimulated with PHA,the content of IFNγ was 22.71,17.12,14.54 and 17.63 μg/L respectively. In group 3 in which PBMCs were in- duced by IL-2,the amount of IFN7 in supernatant from control (60.67 μg/L) was much larger than those from CAH (21.70 μg/ L),CPH (24.00 μg/L) and HCC (19.15 μg/L) (P<0.01). Comparing the amount of IFNγ in group 3 (IL-2-induced) with that in group 1 (non-induced),we found that IFNγ production was en- hanced by nearly 4 folds in liver diseases and by over 7 folds in control,Whereas the number of PBMCs,whether from liver dis- eases or from control,was increased by only approximately 3 folds. CONCLUSIONS The decreased production of IFNγ in liver dis- eases including HCC is mainly due to endogenous defects of lym- phocytes though the defects of stimulating cofactors such as IL-2 may also be involved.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (30972277)the Fundamental Research Fund of Jilin University (200903250)~~
文摘[Objective] The research aimed to carry out the cloning, identification and sequence analysis of full-length cDNA of carp interferon γ-2β （IFNγ-2β）. [Method] The cDNA library of peripheral blood leucocytes which were separated from carp and stimulated with mitogen was screened by a probe labeled with DIG. The IFNγ- 2β EST sequence was picked out from the constructed cDNA library of peripheral blood leucocyte, and the full length of carp interferon γ-2β was cloned. In addition, the sequence analysis was carried out. [Result] Three positive clones were obtained. Sequence analysis indicated that the sequence had a 119 bp 5’-UTR and a 218 bp 3’-UTR, and the open reading frame （ORF）of this gene was 537 bp which putatively coded 178 amino acids and there were several instable motifs for mRNA （ATTTA） in the 3’-untranslated region. Its homology with IFN from GenBank was up to 97% . Analysis on protein sequence and structure showed that the predicted protein sequence was identified as an IFN family signature. [Conclusion] The research laid the foundation for further studying the expression manner, function characteristic and regulation mechanism of IFNγ-2β in vivo and the action mechanism in the inflammatory reaction, emergency reaction and immune response.
基金These authors contributed equally to this work. We thank Drs S Vaidya and E Chow （University of California Los Angeles, USA） for their help in setting up critical experimental systems. We greatly thank Dr K Holmes （University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, USA） for sharing with us 17C1-1 cell line and helping to optimize the protocol to produce high titered MHV-A59 virus stock. We also thank Drs R Baric and L Su （University of North Carolina, USA） for the gift of MHV-A59 and guidance of virus infection. We thank Dr K Lim （National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore） for the gift of Ubi plasmids. We thank Dr M Wathelet （University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA） for sharing the nsp3 construct. Also we thank Dr G Gao （Institute of Biophysics, CAS） for providing us with VSV. This research was partly supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China （30728006） to Genhong Cheng and the National Basic Research Program of MOST （2004BA519A61, 2006CB504300, 2007DFC30190） to Hong Tang.
文摘Infections by coronaviruses such as severe acute respiratory syndrome （SARS） coronavirus （SCoV） and mouse hepatitis virus A59 （MHV-A59） result in very little type I interferon （IFN） production by host cells, which is potentially responsible for the rapid viral growth and severe immunopathology associated with SARS. However, the molecular mechanisms for the low IFN production in cells infected with coronaviruses remain unclear. Here, we provide evidence that Papain-like protease domain 2 （PLP2）, a catalytic domain of the nonstructural protein 3 （nsp3） of MHV-A59, can bind to IRF3, cause its deubiquitination and prevent its nuclear translocation. As a consequence, co-expression of PLP2 strongly inhibits CARDIF-, TBK1- and IRF3-mediated IFNp reporter activities. In addition, we show that wild-type PLP2 but not the mutant PLP2 lacking the deubiquitinase （DUB） activity can reduce IFN induction and promote viral growth in cells infected with VSV. Thus, our study uncovered a viral DUB which coronaviruses may use to escape from the host innate antiviral responses.
文摘AIM： To determine the efficacy of an interferon alpha and ribavirin combination treatment for Japanese patients infected with hepatitis C virus （HCV） of genotype 2, a multi-center study was retrospectively analyzed. METHODS： In total, 173 patients with HCV genotype 2 started to receive interferon-alpha subcutaneously thrice a week and 600-800 mg of ribavirin daily for 24 wk. RESULTS： The overall sustained virological response （SVR）, defined as undetectable HCV RNA in serum, 24 wk after the end of treatment, was remarkably high by 84.4%, （146/173） by an intention-to-treat analysis. A significant difference in SVR was found between patients with and without the discontinuation of ribavirin （46.9% vs 92.9 %）, but no difference was found between those with and without a dose reduction of ribavirin. A significant difference in SVR was also found between patients with less than 16 wk and patients with 16 or more weeks of ribavirin treatment （34.8 % vs 92.0 %）. CONCLUSION： The 24-wk interferon and ribavirin treatment is highly effective for Japanese patients with HCV genotype 2. The significant predictor of SVR is continuation of the ribavirin treatment for up to 16
基金supported by Beijing Science and Technology Commission(No.D121100003912001)Beijing Municipal Administration of Hospitals Clinical Medicine Development of Special Funding,Support(No.ZY201402)
文摘Objective To explore the predictive value of baseline HBs Ag level and early response for HBs Ag loss in patients with HBe Ag-positive chronic hepatitis B during pegylated interferon alpha-2a treatment. Methods A total of 121 patients with HBe Ag-positive chronic hepatitis B who achieved HBs Ag loss were enrolled; all patients were treated with PEG-IFNα-2a 180 μg/week. Serum HBV DNA and serological indicators （HBs Ag, anti-HBs, HBe Ag, and anti-HBe） were determined before and every 3 months during treatment. Results The median treatment time for HBs Ag loss was 84 weeks （7-273 weeks）, and 74.38% （90 cases） of the patients needed extended treatment （〉 48 weeks）. The correlation between baseline HBs Ag levels and the treatment time of HBs Ag loss was significant （B = 14.465, t = 2.342, P = 0.021）. Baseline HBs Ag levels together with the decline range of HBs Ag at 24 weeks significantly correlated with the treatment time of HBs Ag loss （B = 29.862, t = 4.890, P = 0.000 and B = 27.993, t = 27.993, P = 0.005）. Conclusion Baseline HBs Ag levels and extended therapy are critical steps toward HBs Ag loss. Baseline HBs Ag levels together with early response determined the treatment time of HBs Ag loss in patients with HBe Ag-positive chronic hepatitis B during pegylated interferon alpha-2a treatment.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30771905National Basic Research Program of China(973 Program),No.2007CB512800+1 种基金Mega-projects of Science Research,No.008ZX10002-008Beijing Municipal Science&Technology Commission,No.D08050700650803
文摘AIM:To investigate the effect of pegylated interferon(IFN)α-2b on specific CD8+T lymphocytes in patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB).METHODS:Twenty-one patients with CHB were treated with pegylated IFNα-2b.Periphery blood mononuclear cells were isolated from fresh heparinized blood by Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient centrifugation(density:1.077 g/L,Pharmingen)at weeks 0,4,8,12,and 24,respectively.Frequency of circulating hepatitis B virus(HBV)epitope-specific CD8 T cells was detected by flow cytometry.Cytokines were detected by cytometric bead assay.RESULTS:The frequency of circulating HBV core or env-specific CD8 T cells was higher(P<0.05),the number of HBV core specific CD8 T cells was greater at week 24(P<0.05),the level of Th1-type cytokines[interleukin(IL)-12,tumor necrosis factor-α,and IFN-γ]was higher,while that of Th2-type cytokines(IL-4,IL-6,and IL-10)was lower in responders than in nonresponders(P<0.05)after pegylated IFNα-2b treatment.The IL-6 level was correlated with HBV DNA(r=0.597,P=0.04),while the inducible protein-10(IP-10)level was correlated with serum alanine aminotransferase(ALT)(r=0.545,P=0.005).The IP-10 level at week 8 after pegylated IFNα-2b treatment could predict the normalization of ALT in CHB patients(positive predict value=56%,negative predict value=92%).CONCLUSION:Pegylated IFNα-2b can enhance the immune response of CHB patients by increasing the frequency of HBV specific CD8+T cells and regulating the Th1/Th2 cytokines.
基金supported by a grant from the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada(HHC,AFRS)a grant from the Natural Science&Engineering Research Council of Canada(HHC,AFRS)a Mid-Career Investigator Award from the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario,Canada(HHC)
文摘Ischemic brain injury triggers an inflammatory response. tissue but can also exacerbate brain injury. Microglia are This response is necessary to clear damaged brain the innate immune cells of the brain that execute this critical function. In healthy brain, microglia perform a housekeeping function, pruning unused syn- apses between neurons. However, microglia become activated to an inflammatory phenotype upon brain injury. Interferon regulatory factors modulate microglial activation and their production of inflammatory cytokines. This review briefly discusses recent findings pertaining to these regulatory mechanisms in the context of stroke recovery.
文摘AIM： To study the amino acid substitutions in the carboxy （C）-terminal part of E2 protein and in the interferon （IFN） sensitivity determining region （ISDR） and their correlation with response to IFN and viral load in 85 hepatitis C virus （HCV）-lb-infected patients treated with IFN. METHODS： The C-terminal part of E2 （codons 617-711） including PKR/eIF2α phosphorylation homology domain （PePHD） and ISDR was sequenced in 85 HCV-1b-infected patients treated by IFN monotherapy. RESULTS： The amino acid substitutions in PePHD detected only in 4 of 85 patients were not correlated either with response to iFN or with viral load. The presence of substitutions in a N-terminal variable region （codons 617-641） in the C-terminal part of E2 was significantly correlated with both small viral load （33.9% vs 13.8%, P = 0.0394） and sustained response to iFN （25.0% vs 6.9 %, P = 0.0429）. Four or more substitutions in ISDR were significantly correlated with both small viral load （78.6% vs 16.2%, P 〈 0.0001） and sustained response to iFN （85.7% vs 2.9%, P 〈 0.0001）. In multivariate analysis, ISDR in nonstructural （NS） 5A （OR = 0.39, P 〈 0.0001） and N-terminal variable region （OR = 0.51, P = 0.039） was selected as the independentpredictors for small viral load, and ISDR （OR = 39.0, P 〈 0.0001） was selected as the only independent predictor for sustained response. CONCLUSION： The N-terminal variable region in the C-terminal part of E2 correlates with both response to IFN monotherapy and viral load and is one of the factors independently associated with a small viral load.
文摘AIM:Interferon α2b (IFNα2b) and thymosin α1 (Tα1) exhibit synergic effects in the treatment of hepatitis B and hepatitis C when used together. For developing a fusion protein drug, fusion proteins of IFNα2b and Ta1 linked by different lengths of (G4S)n(n = 1-3) were constructed and expressed in Pichia pastoris. METHODS: Using PCR and molecular clone techniques, the fusion genes of IFNα2b-(G4S)n-Tα1 (n = 1-3) were constructed and subcloned into the eukaryotic expression vector pPIC9. After transformation of these plasmids into P. pastoris, the expressed fusion proteins IFNα2b-(G4S) n-Tα1 (n = 1-3) were obtained. These proteins were purified through diethylaminoethyl (DEAE) affinity chromatography and Superdex?75 gel filtration and analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot. Antiviral and E-rosette assays were used to investigate the bioactivities of these fusion proteins. RESULTS: DNA sequencing confirmed that the fusion genes of IFNa2b-(G4S)n-Tα1 (n= 1-3) were correctly cloned to the pPIC9 vector. The recombinant IFNα2b-(G4S)n-Tα1 (n = 1-3) fusion proteins expressed in P. pastoris were purified with DEAE and Superdex?75 gel filtration chromatography. The fusion proteins could be observed on sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with molecular weight (MW) of 23.2, 22.9, and 22.6 ku, respectively, and reacted to the IFNa2b monoclonal antibody and Tal polyclonal antibody. The purified fusion proteins exhibit antiviral activity and can enhance the percentage of E-rosette-forming-cell in E-rosette assay. CONCLUSION: The recombinant IFNa2b-(G4S)n-Tα1 (n = 1-3) fusion proteins were successfully expressed in P. pastoris. Purified fusion proteins exhibit both antiviral activity of IFNa2b and immunomodulatory activity of Tal in vitro. These results will be the basis for further evaluation of the fusion proteins' function in vivo.
文摘Currently available monotherapies of oral nucleoside/nucleotide analogs or interferon are unable to achieve a sustained and effective response in most of patients with chronic hepatitis B（CHB）. The objective of the present study was to compare the efficacy and safety of pegylated interferon（Peg-IFN） alpha-2b plus adefovir dipivoxil combination therapy versus Peg-IFN alpha-2b alone. Sixty-one HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients were randomized to receive Peg-IFN alpha-2b alone（1.5 μg/kg once weekly） or Peg-IFN alpha-2b plus adefovir（10 mg daily） for up to 52 weeks. Efficacy and safety analyses were performed on all participants who received at least one dose of study medication. The rate of HBeAg seroconversion and undetectable HBV-DNA were evaluated after 52 weeks of therapy. At the end of treatment, 11 of 30（36.7%） patients receiving combination therapy achieved HBeAg seroconversion versus 8 of 31（25.8%） in the monotherapy group（P=0.36）. In contrast, the percentage of patients with undetectable serum HBV DNA was significantly higher in the combination group than in the monotherapy group（76.7% vs. 29.0%, P〈0.001）. Thyroid dysfunction was more frequent in the combination group than in the monotherapy group（P〈0.05）. In HBeAg-positive CHB, combination of Peg-IFN alpha-2b and adefovir for 52 weeks resulted, at the end of treatment, in a higher virological response but without significant impact on the rate of HBeAg seroconversion and possibly an adverse effect on thyroid function.
