Immune Checkpoint Proteins and Liver Stiffness After HCV Treatment in HIV Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Martín-Escolano Rubén, Virseda-Berdices Ana, Berenguer Juan, González-García Juan, Brochado-Kith Oscar, Fernández-Rodríguez Amanda, Díez Cristina, Hontañon Victor, Resino Salvador, Jiménez-Sousa María Ángeles
Primary Institution: Centro Nacional de Microbiología (CNM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
Hypothesis
This study aimed to explore the association between plasma levels of immune checkpoint proteins measured one year after successful HCV treatment and persistently high liver stiffness five years after treatment in people with HIV.
Conclusion
Increased plasma concentrations of immune checkpoints one year after successful HCV therapy were linked to persistently high liver stiffness five years later.
Supporting Evidence
- Elevated plasma levels of soluble BTLA, PD-1, and TIM-3 were associated with persistently high liver stiffness five years after HCV treatment.
- 61.5% of patients had persistently high liver stiffness five years after treatment.
- Statistical analyses showed significant associations between immune checkpoint proteins and liver stiffness.
Takeaway
The study found that certain proteins in the blood can help predict if someone will have ongoing liver stiffness after treatment for hepatitis C.
Methodology
A retrospective study involving 39 patients with HIV/HCV-coinfection who had advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis and achieved sustained virologic response (SVR). Plasma samples were obtained one year after treatment, and levels of immune checkpoints were evaluated using a Luminex 200TM analyzer.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the retrospective nature of the study and the exclusion of patients with certain conditions.
Limitations
The limited sample size could have restricted the detection of other associations of smaller magnitude; different HCV therapies could have biased the results.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 51 years, 79.5% were male, and 61.5% were current smokers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.006 for BTLA, p=0.007 for PD-1, p=0.020 for TIM-3
Confidence Interval
95% CI not specified
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website