Molecular Analysis of Seronegative Occult Hepatitis C in Dialysis
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Molecular Analysis and Ex Vivo Infectivity of Seronegative Occult Hepatitis C Virus: A Study in Single Haemodialysis Centre
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Siti Nurul Fazlin Abdul Rahman, Hairul Aini Hamzah, Mohammed Imad A. Mustafa Mahmud, Noraihan Mat Harun
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: Molecular Analysis and Ex Vivo Infectivity of Seronegative Occult Hepatitis C Virus: A Study in Single Haemodialysis Centre
Year: 2024 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2024.31.2.4
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Occult hepatitis C virus infection (OCI) is characterized by the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) ribonucleic acid (RNA) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), while serum or plasma tests remain negative for HCV. This phenomenon is particularly observed in patients with seronegative anti-HCV antibodies, leading to limited understanding of OCI. Research highlights that the immune dysfunction prevalent among hemodialysis (HD) patients may elevate their risk for HCV. The complexity of HCV genotypes complicates the clinical landscape, with a need to explore OCI among HD patients in Southeast Asia.
Replication and Infectivity of OCI
One significant finding of the study is that seronegative OCI represents an active replication of HCV, despite lower viral loads compared to chronic hepatitis C infection (CCI). Phylogenetic analysis indicated that genotype 3 was predominantly present in both OCI and CCI groups. The study established that the OCI isolates could replicate ex vivo, demonstrating the infectious nature of HCV recovered from seronegative cases. The observation that OCI can be cultivated in PBMCs, with evidence of genomic and anti-genomic strands post-inoculation, signifies the virus's enduring competency and suggests a mode of transmission similar to CCI. This replication in PBMCs reinforces the importance of identifying OCI, particularly given its potential implications for disease persistence and patient management.
Conclusion
The research underscores the significance of recognizing seronegative OCI as a viable form of HCV infection, which actively replicates within PBMCs. This discovery emphasizes the necessity for improved screening protocols that include viral assays on PBMCs to capture seronegative infections among HD patients. As the clinical implications of OCI warrant deeper investigation, there is a call for awareness within the medical community regarding the potential for silent infection in patients. Ultimately, refining diagnostic approaches may enhance the management of HCV, aiding in the broader scope of treatment strategies, especially in an era focused on the application of direct-acting antiviral agents.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is occult hepatitis C virus infection (OCI)?
Occult hepatitis C virus infection (OCI) is characterized by the presence of HCV RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) while being undetectable in serum or plasma, specifically in patients who test negative for anti-HCV antibodies.
How was OCI assessed in the study?
The study assessed OCI by identifying six HCV isolates from hemodialysis patients using molecular assays and phylogenetic analysis. PBMC samples were cultured to observe the virus's infectivity and replication capabilities.
What were the findings regarding HCV genotypes in OCI patients?
The findings indicated that HCV genotype 3 was the most prevalent in both OCI and chronic infection groups, with one occult isolate identified as a mixed genotype type, showcasing genetic diversity within the infections.
What clinical implications do the findings on OCI suggest?
The study suggests that seronegative OCI is an active infection form that replicates at low levels. It emphasizes the need for improved diagnostic methods and increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding OCI's persistence and infectious potential.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Molecular Analysis of Seronegative Occult Hepatitis C in Dialysis”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Viru:
The term 'Viru' relates to viruses, particularly the hepatitis C virus (HCV) discussed in the study. Understanding viruses is crucial for medical research, as they are responsible for various diseases. The study highlights the complexities of HCV infection, including its transmission methods and impacts on patients, particularly in those with occult infections.
2) Table:
In scientific research, 'Table' refers to a structured representation of data. It is integral for summarizing findings, enabling clear comparisons between different groups, such as patients with chronic and occult hepatitis C infection. Tables often include statistical data, enhancing the discussion of research outcomes and supporting conclusions effectively.
3) Study (Studying):
The keyword 'Study' encapsulates the research process focused on understanding occult hepatitis C virus infections. It encompasses methodology, data collection, and analysis to explore the prevalence and characteristics of HCV among hemodialysis patients. Studies are foundational for advancing medical knowledge and informing treatment approaches and public health policies.
4) Blood:
'Blood' is essential in the context of hepatitis C as the study emphasizes its role in transmission, especially through infected blood transfusions. The presence of HCV RNA in blood components, particularly in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), underscores the importance of blood screening and monitoring for preventing infections in vulnerable populations.
5) Post:
'Post' often indicates the timeframe of a study, as in 'post-inoculation,' referring to observations made after inoculating naïve PBMCs. It signals results that emerge after specific interventions, highlighting the study's capacity to investigate virus replication and infection outcomes, which are critical for understanding the disease's progression and management.
6) Transmission:
'Transmission' is vital in studying HCV as it pertains to how the virus spreads between individuals. The research explores potential pathways of infection, especially in hemodialysis settings, noting factors like blood transfusions. Understanding transmission dynamics informs prevention strategies and public health measures to control hepatitis C outbreaks.
7) Disease:
'Disease' refers to the pathological conditions examined in the study, primarily hepatitis C. The research investigates its impact, including liver dysfunction, on health outcomes. Identifying disease characteristics enables healthcare professionals to develop effective treatment strategies and advance understanding of the disease's epidemiology in high-risk populations like dialysis patients.
8) Science (Scientific):
'Scientific' denotes the structured methodology underpinning the study, ensuring rigor in research aimed at understanding hepatitis C. The scientific approach is crucial to ensure drug efficacy, establish epidemiological connections, and refine diagnostic methods, reflecting the discipline's commitment to improvement in healthcare outcomes through evidence-based strategies.
9) Medium:
'Medium' in this context likely relates to the growth medium used in laboratory experiments, crucial for culturing PBMCs and studying HCV replication. Selecting the appropriate culture medium is essential as it supports cellular viability and influences experimental outcomes, thereby providing insights into the virus's characteristics and reproductive capabilities.
10) Rules:
'Rules' may refer to the established protocols or guidelines that govern scientific research, ensuring that studies are conducted ethically and systematically. In the context of this study, adherence to rules is paramount for validity, replicability, and reliability of findings, especially when investigating health outcomes in vulnerable patient populations.
11) Cina:
'China' signifies a geographical region relevant to the prevalence of occult hepatitis C infection, as studies suggest varying rates of HCV in blood donors. This context emphasizes the importance of global awareness and monitoring of hepatitis C transmission, particularly in countries with significant healthcare challenges related to viral diseases.
12) Tree:
'Tree' in a scientific context often refers to phylogenetic trees used to illustrate evolutionary relationships between viruses or genotypes. In this study, such trees help depict the genetic relatedness of HCV isolates, revealing insights into transmission dynamics and informing treatment decisions based on viral characteristics and mutations.
13) Developing:
'Developing' relates to the ongoing process of advancing scientific understanding and medical practices. It highlights the context of improving detection methods and treatments for hepatitis C. In this study, developing new diagnostic strategies is crucial for effectively managing infections, especially those that are occult and often undetected in clinical settings.
14) Mutation:
'Mutation' encompasses the genetic changes in the virus that can lead to variations in its behavior or resistance to treatment. The study's examination of mutations in HCV aids in understanding how these changes affect its replication and transmission. This knowledge is essential for anticipating challenges in managing HCV infections.
15) Punjab:
'Punjab' refers to a region in India where specific HCV strains were identified, indicating localized prevalence patterns. Mentioning Punjab underscores the geographical variation in HCV genotypes and emphasizes the need for region-specific studies to address public health challenges and inform local healthcare strategies regarding hepatitis C management.
16) India:
'India' appears as a reference point for geographical viral studies, emphasizing the global nature of hepatitis C challenges. The relevance of HCV in India highlights the necessity of tailored public health interventions to reduce the burden of viral infections, particularly among populations at risk, like those undergoing hemodialysis.
17) Kumar:
'Kumar' may refer to a researcher or character associated with studies on hepatitis C. The inclusion of specific names in scientific literature often clarifies individual contributions to research. Individuals like Kumar play key roles in advancing understanding of HCV, therefore shaping future studies and public health recommendations.
18) Water:
'Water' may hold significance in discussing health environments or transmission pathways related to hepatitis C. Contaminated water sources can be indirect vectors for many diseases. Acknowledging water's role emphasizes broader infection control strategies necessary for reducing viral transmission within communities vulnerable to hepatitis C infection.
19) Arrow:
'Arrow' could symbolize directionality in research findings or pathways of viral transmission. In medical studies, arrows often indicate progression, whether in treatment efficacy or understanding disease mechanics. This visual representation aids in clearly communicating research outcomes, emphasizing aspects such as the necessity for effective intervention strategies against hepatitis C.
20) Kaya:
'Kaya' likely refers to a researcher or co-author's contribution to the discourse surrounding hepatitis C. Such mention denotes the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry, where multiple researchers combine expertise to unravel complex issues associated with viral infections, ultimately enhancing the collective knowledge base and advancing public health strategies.
21) Rice (Rce):
'Rice' could signify the importance of dietary considerations in health outcomes, including those affecting patients with hepatitis C. Proper nutrition is vital for managing chronic liver diseases. Moreover, research may explore how different diets influence disease progression, thus informing comprehensive care strategies for patients suffering from HCV infections.
22) Male:
'Male' is referenced in demographic data within the study, underscoring the gender aspects of hepatitis C prevalence among patients. Identifying gender differences in infection rates helps shape targeted public health approaches and interventions, fostering a better understanding of how social and biological factors intersect in disease epidemiology.
23) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
'Accumulated' indicates the gathering of data or knowledge over time, highlighting the continuity of research into HCV and its implications. Accumulation of findings helps refine treatment protocols and contribute to the overall understanding of how occult hepatitis C operates within various populations, thus enhancing evidence-based medical practices.
24) Discussion:
'Discussion' is a vital section in research papers, reviewing findings and contextualizing them within broader scientific or clinical frameworks. It is where implications, limitations, and future research directions are explored, emphasizing the importance of sharing insights that could impact healthcare practices and contribute to ongoing studies in hepatitis C infection.
25) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotic' relates to the broader context of infectious disease management but is specifically relevant in discussions contrasting viral infections like HCV, as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. This distinction is essential in guiding treatment decisions and promoting awareness of the appropriate therapeutic interventions needed in viral versus bacterial infections.
26) Similarity:
'Similarity' underscores comparative analyses within the study, particularly when examining nucleotide sequences of HCV isolates. Understanding similarities aids in identifying strains and tracking transmission patterns, which is crucial for both diagnostics and implementing effective treatment protocols in managing hepatitis C among different patient groups.
27) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' in this context reflects the cumulative understanding gained from research on hepatitis C. It includes insights into transmission, replication mechanisms, and clinical impacts, emphasizing the importance of disseminating this information to healthcare providers and the public to improve screening, prevention, and treatment of HCV infections.
28) Medicine:
'Medicine' encompasses the field in which this research operates, highlighting its relevance to clinical practices and public health. Advances in understanding hepatitis C directly inform therapeutic strategies and preventive measures, ultimately aiming to improve patient care and disease outcomes, showcasing the vital interconnectedness of research and medical application.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Molecular Analysis of Seronegative Occult Hepatitis C in Dialysis’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Blood transfusion, Active form, Statistical analysis, Research purpose, Data analysis, Clinical significance, Technical Assistance, Inclusion criteria, Sample size, Health practitioners, Viral load, Chronic liver disease, Demographic Data, Polymerase chain reaction, Cross-sectional study, Viral Infection, Cell culture, Study participants, Seronegative patients, Study protocol, Positive control, Written informed consent, Peripheral blood mononuclear cells, Negative control, Cellular immunity, Diagnostic test, Viral genome, PCR amplification, Alanine Transaminase, Dialysis patients, Molecular characteristics, Phylogenetic tree, Phylogenetic analysis, Foetal Bovine Serum, Hepatitis C virus, HCV INFECTION, Molecular structure, PCR, Liver enzyme, Sequence analysis, Dialysis, Anti-HCV antibodies, RNA genome, DNA sequencing, Immune function, PCR product, Blood sample, Nucleotide sequence, Chronic HCV infection, Sequence alignment, Reverse transcription, Viral genotype, Nested PCR, Viral RNA, Blood donor, DNA polymerase, HCV RNA, Viral strain, Ex-vivo, Clinical characteristic, Ex vivo system, Two-dimensional structure, HCV replication, PBMC, Single stranded RNA genome, Molecular assay, Mixed genotype, Blood products.