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Böhm M, Apel M, Sugawara K, Brehler R, Jurk K, Luger TA, Haas H, Paus R, Eiz-Vesper B, Walls AF, Ponimaskin E, Gehring M, Kapp A, Raap U. Modulation of basophil activity: a novel function of the neuropeptide α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2011; 129:1085-93. [PMID: 22178636 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2011.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2010] [Revised: 11/09/2011] [Accepted: 11/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the effect of neuropeptides on basophils, which are important effector cells in immune and allergic responses. OBJECTIVE This study aimed at revealing the role of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) on basophil function. METHODS Expression of melanocortin receptors and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) was analyzed by means of RT-PCR, Western immunoblotting, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and double-immunofluorescence analysis. Signal transduction studies included cyclic AMP and Ca(2+) mobilization assays. Basophil activity was assessed based on CD63 surface expression and cytokine release. RESULTS MC-1R expression was detectable in basophils isolated from human peripheral blood, as well as in basophils within nasal tissue. In isolated basophils from human blood, truncated POMC transcripts were present, but there was no POMC protein. Treatment of basophils with α-MSH increased intracellular Ca(2+) but not cyclic AMP levels. α-MSH at physiologic doses potently suppressed basophil activation induced by N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, or grass pollen allergen in whole blood of healthy or allergic subjects, respectively. The effect of α-MSH on basophil activation was MC-1R mediated (as shown by blockade with a peptide analogue of agouti-signaling protein) and imitated by adrenocorticotropic hormone but not elicited by the tripeptides KPV and KdPT, both of which lack the central pharmacophore of α-MSH. Moreover, α-MSH at physiologic doses significantly suppressed secretion of 3 proallergic cytokines, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-13, in basophils stimulated with anti-IgE, N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine, or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight a novel functional activity of α-MSH, which acts as a natural antiallergic basophil-response modifier. These findings might point to novel therapeutic strategies in treating allergic diseases.
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Ito Y, Satoh T, Takayama K, Miyagishi C, Walls AF, Yokozeki H. Basophil recruitment and activation in inflammatory skin diseases. Allergy 2011; 66:1107-13. [PMID: 21371044 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2011.02570.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Basophils are blood leukocytes constituting less than 1% of leukocytes. They share morphological and functional similarities with mast cells, but recent studies indicate that basophils play non-redundant roles via the release of several cytokines and lipid mediators, as well as functioning as antigen presenting cells. However, basophil infiltration into the tissues in human skin diseases remains to be addressed. METHODS The infiltration of basophils in 24 skin diseases (136 samples) was immunohistochemically analyzed using basophil-specific BB1 antibody. In addition, activation of blood basophils was examined by assessing CD203c expression with flow cytometry. RESULTS Basophils were detected in skin lesions of atopic dermatitis, prurigo, urticaria, bullous pemphigoid, drug eruptions, eosinophilic pustular folliculitis, insect bites, scabies, Henoch-Schönlein purpura and dermatomyositis. While cell densities in urticaria, bullous pemphigoid and eosinophilic pustular folliculitis were prominent, much lower numbers of basophils were seen in lesional skin of atopic dermatitis. Basophils were entirely absent in psoriasis vulgaris, mastocytosis, tumoral lesions, systemic sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Levels of CD203c expression on blood basophils from prurigo and urticaria patients were higher than those from healthy donors. CONCLUSIONS Basophils infiltrate into skin lesions more commonly than previously thought, and thus they may play important roles in a variety of inflammatory skin diseases.
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Korkmaz B, Jégot G, Lau LC, Thorpe M, Pitois E, Juliano L, Walls AF, Hellman L, Gauthier F. Discriminating between the activities of human cathepsin G and chymase using fluorogenic substrates. FEBS J 2011; 278:2635-46. [PMID: 21599834 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2011.08189.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cathepsin G (CG) (EC 3.4.21.20) and chymase (EC 3.4.21.39) are two closely-related chymotrypsin-like proteases that are released from cytoplasmic granules of activated mast cells and/or neutrophils. We investigated the potential for their substrate-binding subsites to discriminate between their substrate specificities, aiming to better understand their respective role during the progression of inflammatory diseases. In addition to their preference for large aromatic residues at P1, both preferentially accommodate small hydrophilic residues at the S1' subsite. Despite significant structural differences in the S2' subsite, both prefer an acidic residue at that position. The Ala226/Glu substitution at the bottom of the CG S1 pocket, which allows CG but not chymase to accommodate a Lys residue at P1, is the main structural difference, allowing discrimination between the activities of these two proteases. However, a Lys at P1 is accommodated much less efficiently than a Phe, and the corresponding substrate is cleaved by β2-tryptase (EC 3.4.21.59). We optimized a P1 Lys-containing substrate to enhance sensitivity towards CG and prevent cleavage by chymase and β2-tryptase. The resulting substrate (ABZ-GIEPKSDPMPEQ-EDDnp) [where ABZ is O-aminobenzoic acid and EDDnp is N-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-ethylenediamine] was cleaved by CG but not by chymase and tryptase, with a specificity constant of 190 mM(-1)·s(-1). This allows the quantification of active CG in cells or tissue extracts where it may be present together with chymase and tryptase, as we have shown using a HMC-1 cell homogenate and a sputum sample from a patient with severe asthma.
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Majtan J, Kumar P, Majtan T, Walls AF, Klaudiny J. Effect of honey and its major royal jelly protein 1 on cytokine and MMP-9 mRNA transcripts in human keratinocytes. Exp Dermatol 2011; 19:e73-9. [PMID: 19845754 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2009.00994.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Honey has been used since ancient times as a remedy in wound healing. However, even though the results from randomized clinical trials document that honey accelerates wound healing, no study dealing with its influence on human skin cells (epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblast) has been performed. We demonstrate that keratinocytes, which are known to be involved in wound healing, are responsible for elevated production of mediators including cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and TGF-beta) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) after incubation with honey. Real-time PCR was performed for the quantification of mRNA level of selected cytokines and MMP-9. Furthermore, we show that the increased level of MMP-9 in the epidermis following incubation with honey leads to degradation of type IV collagen in the basement membrane. These data indisputably demonstrate that honey activates keratinocytes and support the findings that honey may accelerate wound healing process.
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Teodosio C, García-Montero AC, Jara-Acevedo M, Sánchez-Muñoz L, Alvarez-Twose I, Núñez R, Schwartz LB, Walls AF, Escribano L, Orfao A. Mast cells from different molecular and prognostic subtypes of systemic mastocytosis display distinct immunophenotypes. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2010; 125:719-26, 726.e1-726.e4. [PMID: 20061010 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2009.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2009] [Revised: 10/19/2009] [Accepted: 10/20/2009] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a heterogeneous group of disorders with distinct clinical and biological behavior. Despite this, little is known about the immunophenotypic features of the distinct diagnostic categories of SM. OBJECTIVE To analyze the immunophenotypic characteristics of bone marrow (BM) mast cells (MCs) of different subtypes of SM. METHODS Bone marrow samples from 123 patients with different subtypes of SM and 92 controls were analyzed for a broad panel of immunophenotypic markers by flow cytometry. RESULTS Three clearly different maturation-associated immunophenotypic profiles were found for BMMCs in SM. These different profiles were associated with both genetic markers of the disease and its clinical behavior. BMMCs from poor-prognosis categories of SM (aggressive SM and MC leukemia) typically showed an immature phenotype with clonal involvement of all myeloid lineages by the D816V stem cell growth factor receptor gene (KIT) mutation. In turn, a mature activated versus resting BMMC immunophenotype was commonly found among patients with good-prognosis subtypes of SM depending on whether they carried (indolent SM and clonal MC activation disorders) or not (well differentiated SM) the D816V KIT mutation. CONCLUSION Bone marrow MCs from SM show 3 different maturation-related immunophenotypic profiles that are associated with both the genetic markers of the disease and its clinical behavior.
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Pallett DW, Soh E, Edwards ML, Bodey K, Lau LCK, Cooper JI, Howarth PH, Walls AF, Wang H. Proof of concept pilot study: prevalence of grass virus infection and the potential for effects on the allergenic potency of pollen. Environ Health 2009; 8 Suppl 1:S10. [PMID: 20102577 PMCID: PMC2796488 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-8-s1-s10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wild plants harbour a variety of viruses and these have the potential to alter the composition of pollen. The potential consequences of virus infection of grasses on pollen-induced allergic disease are not known. METHODS We have collected pollen from Dactylis glomerata (cocksfoot; a grass species implicated as a trigger of allergic rhino-conjunctivitis) from Wytham Wood, Oxfordshire UK. Extracts were prepared from pollen from uninfected grass, and from grass naturally infected by the Cocksfoot streak potyvirus (CSV). Preparations of pollen from virus-infected and non-infected grasses were employed in skin testing 15 grass pollen-allergic subjects with hayfever. Allergen profiles of extracts were investigated by Western blotting for IgE with sera from allergic subjects. RESULTS The prevalence of CSV infection in cocksfoot grasses sampled from the study site varied significantly over an eight-year period, but infection rates of up to 70% were detected. Virus infection was associated with small alterations in the quantities of pollen proteins detected by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and in the patterns of allergens identified by Western blotting with IgE from grass pollen allergic subjects. For individual subjects there were differences in potencies of standardised extracts of pollen from virus-free and virus-infected plants as assessed by skin testing, though a consistent pattern was not established for the group of 15 subjects. CONCLUSION Infection rates for CSV in cocksfoot grass can be high, though variable. Virus-induced alterations in components of grass pollen have the potential to alter the allergenic potency.
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Harper NJN, Dixon T, Dugué P, Edgar DM, Fay A, Gooi HC, Herriot R, Hopkins P, Hunter JM, Mirakian R, Pumphrey RSH, Seneviratne SL, Walls AF, Williams P, Wildsmith JA, Wood P, Nasser AS, Powell RK, Mirakhur R, Soar J. Suspected anaphylactic reactions associated with anaesthesia. Anaesthesia 2009; 64:199-211. [PMID: 19143700 PMCID: PMC3082210 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2044.2008.05733.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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Matsuda A, Okayama Y, Ebihara N, Yokoi N, Hamuro J, Walls AF, Ra C, Hopkin JM, Kinoshita S. Hyperexpression of the high-affinity IgE receptor-beta chain in chronic allergic keratoconjunctivitis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2009; 50:2871-7. [PMID: 19136704 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.08-3022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Although the existence of Fc(epsilon)RI-alphabetagamma(2) and Fc(epsilon)RI-alphagamma(2) receptor subtypes was reported, there has been no direct evidence of these two subtypes of Fc(epsilon)RI in vivo. To investigate the existence of these two subtypes of Fc(epsilon)RI in vivo, the authors evaluated the expression of Fc(epsilon)RI-beta in the giant papillae of chronic allergic conjunctivitis and compared the expression level of Fc(epsilon)RI-beta with control conjunctivae using the anti-human Fc(epsilon)RI-beta antibody. METHODS Fc(epsilon)RI-beta expression in giant papillae obtained from patients with atopic keratoconjunctivitis and vernal keratoconjunctivitis in control conjunctivae was evaluated by immunohistochemistry using anti-Fc(epsilon)RI-beta, -alpha, -gamma, and anti-human mast cell tryptase, anti-chymase, anti-basophil, and anti-CD1a antibodies. RESULTS Statistical analyses revealed that the densities of Fc(epsilon)RI-beta(+) cells, Fc(epsilon)RI-alpha(+) cells, tryptase(+) cells, and Fc(epsilon)RI-beta(+)/tryptase(+) cells were significantly increased in giant papillae compared with controls. There were two types of Fc(epsilon)RI (alphabetagamma(2) and alphagamma(2)) on the mast cells of the giant papillae. The ratio of the Fc(epsilon)RI-beta(+) cell number/Fc(epsilon)RI-alpha(+) cell number in the giant papillae (0.69 +/- 0.08 [mean +/- SD]) was significantly higher than that of the controls (0.07 +/- 0.16). Fc(epsilon)RI-beta/tryptase double immunostaining revealed that 81% +/- 13% of tryptase(+) cells expressed Fc(epsilon)RI-beta. Fc(epsilon)RI-beta(+) cells were preferentially localized within and around epithelial tissue. The authors also found that Fc(epsilon)RI-beta was expressed by basophils but not by Fc(epsilon)RI-alphagamma(2)-positive Langerhans cells in the giant papillae samples. CONCLUSIONS Preferential Fc(epsilon)RI-beta expression observed in the mast cells and basophils of giant papillae suggests important roles of Fc(epsilon)RI-beta in the pathophysiology of atopic keratoconjunctivitis and vernal keratoconjunctivitis.
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Simons FER, Frew AJ, Ansotegui IJ, Bochner BS, Golden DBK, Finkelman FD, Leung DYM, Lotvall J, Marone G, Metcalfe DD, Müller U, Rosenwasser LJ, Sampson HA, Schwartz LB, van Hage M, Walls AF. Practical allergy (PRACTALL) report: risk assessment in anaphylaxis. Allergy 2008; 63:35-7. [PMID: 18053014 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01605.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Effector mechanisms in anaphylaxis were reviewed. Current approaches to confirmation of the clinical diagnosis were discussed. Improved methods for distinguishing between allergen sensitization (which is common in the general population) and clinical risk of anaphylaxis (which is uncommon) were deliberated. Innovative techniques that will improve risk assessment in anaphylaxis in the future were described.
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Simons FER, Frew AJ, Ansotegui IJ, Bochner BS, Golden DBK, Finkelman FD, Leung DYM, Lotvall J, Marone G, Metcalfe DD, Müller U, Rosenwasser LJ, Sampson HA, Schwartz LB, van Hage M, Walls AF. Risk assessment in anaphylaxis: current and future approaches. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2007; 120:S2-24. [PMID: 17602945 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2007.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2007] [Revised: 05/01/2007] [Accepted: 05/04/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Risk assessment of individuals with anaphylaxis is currently hampered by lack of (1) an optimal and readily available laboratory test to confirm the clinical diagnosis of an anaphylaxis episode and (2) an optimal method of distinguishing allergen-sensitized individuals who are clinically tolerant from those at risk for anaphylaxis episodes after exposure to the relevant allergen. Our objectives were to review the effector mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of anaphylaxis; to explore the possibility of developing an optimal laboratory test to confirm the diagnosis of an anaphylaxis episode, and the possibility of improving methods to distinguish allergen sensitization from clinical reactivity; and to develop a research agenda for risk assessment in anaphylaxis. Researchers from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and the European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology held a PRACTALL (Practical Allergy) meeting to discuss these objectives. New approaches being investigated to support the clinical diagnosis of anaphylaxis include serial measurements of total tryptase in serum during an anaphylaxis episode, and measurement of baseline total tryptase levels after the episode. Greater availability of the test for mature beta-tryptase, a more specific mast cell activation marker for anaphylaxis than total tryptase, is needed. Measurement of chymase, mast cell carboxypeptidase A3, platelet-activating factor, and other mast cell products may prove to be useful. Consideration should be given to measuring a panel of mediators from mast cells and basophils. New approaches being investigated to help distinguish sensitized individuals at minimum or no risk from those at increased risk of developing anaphylaxis include measurement of the ratio of allergen-specific IgE to total IgE, determination of IgE directed at specific allergenic epitopes, measurement of basophil activation markers by using flow cytometry, and assessment of allergen-specific cytokine responses. Algorithms have been developed for risk assessment of individuals with anaphylaxis, along with a research agenda for studies that could lead to an improved ability to confirm the clinical diagnosis of anaphylaxis and to identify allergen-sensitized individuals who are at increased risk of anaphylaxis.
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Mäyränpää MI, Heikkilä HM, Lindstedt KA, Walls AF, Kovanen PT. Desquamation of human coronary artery endothelium by human mast cell proteases: implications for plaque erosion. Coron Artery Dis 2007; 17:611-21. [PMID: 17047445 DOI: 10.1097/01.mca.0000224420.67304.4d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endothelial erosion has emerged as an important contributor to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and its complications, but the molecular mechanisms have remained unclear. As activated mast cells capable of secreting neutral proteases are present in the intima of eroded coronary plaques, we investigated their potential roles in endothelial erosion. METHODS AND RESULTS Studies involving double immunostaining of mast cells (tryptase(pos) cells) and platelets (CD42b) in human coronary artery specimens indicated that the number of subendothelial mast cells correlated with the number of parietal microthrombi (P=0.001, rs 0.27). The number of parietal microthrombi was significantly higher (P<0.001) in areas of plaques than in areas of healthy intima. Of the microthrombi 86% were in the lesional coronary segments, of all subendothelial mast cells 15% were located under parietal microthrombi, and of all parietal microthrombi 49% were located over subendothelial mast cells. Double immunostaining revealed the mast cell to neutrophil ratio in the human coronary artery intima to be 5 : 1, and that mast cells are a major local source of cathepsin G. Scanning electron and light microscopy indicated that treatment of fresh human coronary arteries intraluminally with recombinant human (rh)-tryptase and rh-chymase induced endothelial damage characterized by retraction of endothelial cells, disruption of endothelial cell to cell adhesions and desquamation of endothelial cells. VE-cadherin and fibronectin, which are necessary for cell-cell interactions and endothelial cell adhesion, were degraded by tryptase and chymase and also by cathepsin G. CONCLUSIONS Activated subendothelial mast cells may contribute to endothelial erosion by releasing proteases capable of degrading VE-cadherin and fibronectin.
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de Paulis A, Prevete N, Fiorentino I, Rossi FW, Staibano S, Montuori N, Ragno P, Longobardi A, Liccardo B, Genovese A, Ribatti D, Walls AF, Marone G. Expression and functions of the vascular endothelial growth factors and their receptors in human basophils. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2007; 177:7322-31. [PMID: 17082651 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.177.10.7322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a multistep complex phenomenon critical for several inflammatory and neoplastic disorders. Basophils, normally confined to peripheral blood, can infiltrate the sites of chronic inflammation. In an attempt to obtain insights into the mechanism(s) underlying human basophil chemotaxis and its role in inflammation, we have characterized the expression and function of vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptors in these cells. Basophils express mRNA for three isoforms of VEGF-A (121, 165, and 189) and two isoforms of VEGF-B (167 and 186). Peripheral blood and basophils in nasal polyps contain VEGF-A localized in secretory granules. The concentration of VEGF-A in basophils was 144.4 +/- 10.8 pg/10(6) cells. Immunologic activation of basophils induced the release of VEGF-A. VEGF-A (10-500 ng/ml) induced basophil chemotaxis. Supernatants of activated basophils induced an angiogenic response in the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane that was inhibited by an anti-VEGF-A Ab. The tyrosine kinase VEGFR-2 (VEGFR-2/KDR) mRNA was expressed in basophils. These cells also expressed mRNA for the soluble form of VEGFR-1 and neuropilin (NRP)1 and NRP2. Flow cytometric analysis indicated that basophils express epitopes recognized by mAbs against the extracellular domains of VEGFR-2, NRP1, and NRP2. Our data suggest that basophils could play a role in angiogenesis and inflammation through the expression of several forms of VEGF and their receptors.
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Abe K, Aslam A, Walls AF, Sato T, Inoue H. Up-regulation of protease-activated receptor-2 by bFGF in cultured human synovial fibroblasts. Life Sci 2006; 79:898-904. [PMID: 16687155 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2006.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2005] [Revised: 11/25/2005] [Accepted: 03/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Protease-activated receptors (PARs) have been implicated in the development of acute and chronic inflammatory responses. We have examined the expression of mRNA for PARs and their regulation by growth factors and cytokines in synovial fibroblasts derived from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Messenger RNA for PAR-1, -2 and -3 was detected in these cells, but not that for PAR-4. Expression of mRNA for PAR-2 was up-regulated by bFGF in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas expression of mRNA for PAR-1 and PAR-3 was not affected. Levels of mRNA encoding PAR-1, PAR-2 and PAR-3 did not increase in response to IL-1beta and TNF-alpha. Expression of mRNA for PAR-2 was maximal 12 h after addition of bFGF, and maximal levels of immunoreactive PAR-2 were reached after 24 h. Furthermore, PAR-2 agonist peptide (SLIGKV-NH(2)), but not the inactive reverse peptide (VKGILS-NH(2)), induced transitory cytosolic Ca(2+) mobilization in cells, and its response was increased by pretreatment with bFGF. An important role could be played by bFGF in the regulation of functional PAR-2 expression in cultured RA synovial fibroblasts.
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de Nadaï P, Chenivesse C, Gilet J, Porte H, Vorng H, Chang Y, Walls AF, Wallaert B, Tonnel AB, Tsicopoulos A, Zerwes HG. CCR5 usage by CCL5 induces a selective leukocyte recruitment in human skin xenografts in vivo. J Invest Dermatol 2006; 126:2057-64. [PMID: 16778803 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jid.5700369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
CCR5 is one of the major inflammatory chemokine receptors with potential therapeutical applications in humans. However, the redundancy of chemokines and their receptors, and the species specificity of chemokine receptor antagonists pose challenges to understanding of the role they play in pharmacological situations. To address this question, we used a humanized severe combined immunodeficient mouse model grafted with human skin and autologous leukocytes, and evaluated the effect of a blocking antibody against human CCR5, on CCL5-induced cutaneous leukocyte recruitment in vivo. At baseline, CCL5 induced a significant recruitment of T cells mainly of the memory phenotype, of monocytes/macrophages, eosinophils, and IFN-gamma(+) but not IL-4(+) and IL-5(+) cells. In vivo, anti-CCR5 antibody was able to almost completely inhibit the recruitment of monocytes/macrophages and T-helper (Th)1-type cells to inhibit partially the attraction of memory T cells, but had no effect on eosinophil infiltration, although all these cell types express other CCL5 binding chemokine receptors than CCR5. These results indicate that the in vivo environment regulates target cell specificity of CCL5 leading to differential cell recruitment, suggesting that antagonizing CCR5 receptor may be of therapeutic value in diseases such as acquired immuno deficiency syndrome, where CCL5/CCR5, monocytes, and Th1-type cells play a predominant role.
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Bradding P, Walls AF, Holgate ST. The role of the mast cell in the pathophysiology of asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2006; 117:1277-84. [PMID: 16750987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2006.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 391] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2006] [Revised: 02/16/2006] [Accepted: 02/28/2006] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
There is compelling evidence that human mast cells contribute to the pathophysiology of asthma. Mast cells, but not T cells or eosinophils, localize within the bronchial smooth muscle bundles in patients with asthma but not in normal subjects or those with eosinophilic bronchitis, a factor likely to be important in determining the asthmatic phenotype. The mechanism of mast cell recruitment by asthmatic airway smooth muscle involves the CXCL10/CXCR3 axis, and several mast cell mediators have profound effects on airway smooth muscle function. The autacoids are established as potent bronchoconstrictors, whereas the proteases tryptase and chymase are being demonstrated to have a range of actions consistent with key roles in inflammation, tissue remodeling, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. IL-4 and IL-13, known mast cell products, also induce bronchial hyperresponsiveness in the mouse independent of the inflammatory response and enhance the magnitude of agonist-induced intracellular Ca2+ responses in cultured human airway smooth muscle. There are therefore many pathways by which the close approximation of mast cells with airway smooth muscle cells might lead to disordered airway smooth muscle function. Mast cells also infiltrate the airway mucous glands in subjects with asthma, showing features of degranulation, and a positive correlation with the degree of mucus obstructing the airway lumen, suggesting that mast cells play an important role in regulating mucous gland secretion. The development of potent and specific inhibitors of mast cell secretion, which remain active when administered long-term to asthmatic airways, should offer a novel approach to the treatment of asthma.
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Agis H, Krauth MT, Böhm A, Mosberger I, Müllauer L, Simonitsch-Klupp I, Walls AF, Horny HP, Valent P. Identification of basogranulin (BB1) as a novel immunohistochemical marker of basophils in normal bone marrow and patients with myeloproliferative disorders. Am J Clin Pathol 2006; 125:273-81. [PMID: 16393678 DOI: 10.1309/m9fq-mqgf-6616-7n2x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs), basophils typically increase in number in the bone marrow (BM) and blood. In chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), basophilia is a diagnostic and prognostic variable. However, no reliable approach for routine detection and enumeration of basophils in BM sections is available. We applied the antibasogranulin antibody BB1 on paraffin-embedded BM sections in 21 control samples (normal BM), 45 patients with CML, 9 with chronic idiopathic myelofibrosis, 11 with polycythemia vera, 19 with essential thrombocythemia, and 7 with indolent systemic mastocytosis. As assessed by immunostaining of serial BM sections, BB1+ cells coexpressed myeloperoxidase, histidine decarboxylase, and leukosialin but did not express B- or T-cell-restricted antigens. BB1+ BM cells were found to be highly elevated in patients with CML compared with normal BM or other MPDs, with maximum counts found in accelerated phase CML (median, 160 cells/mm(2)). In summary, BB1 (basogranulin) is a new immunohistochemical basophil marker that should allow quantification of basophils in CML at diagnosis and during therapy.
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Agis H, Krauth MT, Böhm A, Mosberger I, Müllauer L, Simonitsch-Klupp I, Walls AF, Horny HP, Valent P. Identification of Basogranulin (BB1) as a Novel Immunohistochemical Marker of Basophils in Normal Bone Marrow and Patients With Myeloproliferative Disorders. Am J Clin Pathol 2006. [DOI: 10.1309/m9fqmqgf66167n2x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Iwanaga T, McEuen A, Walls AF, Clough JB, Keith TP, Rorke S, Barton SJ, Holgate ST, Holloway JW. Polymorphism of the mast cell chymase gene (CMA1) promoter region: lack of association with asthma but association with serum total immunoglobulin E levels in adult atopic dermatitis. Clin Exp Allergy 2004; 34:1037-42. [PMID: 15248847 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2004.02000.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mast cell chymase has the potential to be an important mediator of inflammation and remodelling in the asthmatic lung. Previous studies have examined association between promoter polymorphism of the chymase gene (CMA1) and allergic phenotypes but the significance of this polymorphism is unclear. We have examined association of a CMA1 variant in relation to asthma in a large UK Caucasian family cohort. METHODS A polymorphism of the CMA1 gene promoter (-1903G/A) was genotyped in 341 asthmatic families and in 184 non-asthmatic adults recruited from the UK PCR-RFLP based genotyping. Association with asthma diagnosis, atopy, specific and total IgE, and atopy and asthma severity was examined. RESULTS Case-control studies did not reveal a significant difference in allele frequency between asthmatics and controls. A significant association was found between CMA1 genotypes and total IgE levels in subjects with self-reported eczema that remained significant after correction for multiple testing (median total serum IgE GG 297 kU/L, GA 144 kU/L, AA 48.4 kU/L, Pc=0.0032). CONCLUSION These data suggest that CMA1 promoter polymorphism does not contribute to asthma susceptibility or severity but may be involved in regulating IgE levels in patients with eczema.
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de Paulis A, Prevete N, Fiorentino I, Walls AF, Curto M, Petraroli A, Castaldo V, Ceppa P, Fiocca R, Marone G. Basophils Infiltrate Human Gastric Mucosa at Sites of Helicobacter pylori Infection, and Exhibit Chemotaxis in Response to H. pylori-derived Peptide Hp(2–20). THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2004; 172:7734-43. [PMID: 15187157 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.172.12.7734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Basophils, which are normally confined to the circulation, can migrate to sites of allergic inflammation. Using the specific mAb, BB1, we detected basophil infiltration of the gastric mucosa of Helicobacter pylori-infected patients affected by moderate and severe gastritis. Basophils were not found in H. pylori-free individuals or in subjects with mild gastritis. The H. pylori-derived peptide, Hp(2-20), was a potent basophil chemoattractant in vitro, whereas the control peptide, Hp1, was ineffective. Basophils from peripheral blood of healthy volunteers expressed mRNA for the formyl peptide receptors, N-formyl-peptide receptor (FPR), FPR-like (FPRL)1, and FPRL2. Preincubation of basophils with FMLP or Hp(2-20) caused complete desensitization to a subsequent challenge with homologous stimulus. Incubation of basophils with a low concentration of FMLP, which binds with high affinity to FPR, but not to FPRL1 or FPRL2, did not affect the chemotactic response to Hp(2-20). In contrast, a high concentration of FMLP, which binds to FPRL1 and FPRL2, reduced the chemotactic response to Hp(2-20). The FPR antagonist, cyclosporin H, prevented chemotaxis induced by FMLP, but not by Hp(2-20). Hp(2-20) could be responsible, at least in part, for basophil infiltration of the gastric mucosa of H. pylori-infected patients presumably through the interaction with FPRL1 and FPRL2.
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Tsicopoulos A, Shimbara A, de Nadai P, Aldewachi O, Lamblin C, Lassalle P, Walls AF, Sénéchal S, Levitt RC, Darras J, Hamid Q, Wallaert B. Involvement of IL-9 in the bronchial phenotype of patients with nasal polyposis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2004; 113:462-9. [PMID: 15007348 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2003.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nasal polyposis (NP) is frequently associated with asthma. In this disease, asymptomatic bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) is thought to precede the development of asthma. IL-9 and its receptor have been reported as candidate genes for asthma and to be associated with BHR. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to assess the contribution of 11-9 to the pathogenesis of BHR in NP by comparing the expression of IL-9 and its receptor in bronchial biopsy specimens from three groups of patients with NP: NP without BHR, NP with asymptomatic BHR, and NP with BHR and asthma. METHODS Bronchial biopsy specimens were examined in terms of cellular infiltration and in terms of expression of IL-9 protein and mRNA as well as of its receptor by using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. RESULTS Patients with NP with asthma as compared with the two other groups exhibited an increased bronchial infiltration of basophils, eosinophils, and T cells that correlated with the asthma score. The two groups of patients with NP with BHR showed an increased expression in IL-9 protein and mRNA as well as an increase in the expression of IL-9R mRNA at the epithelial level. These modifications were inversely correlated with the airway responsiveness to methacholine, producing a 20% fall in FEV1. There was a close association between IL-9+ cells, IL-5 mRNA expression, and eosinophil infiltration that correlated with each other. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest an important role for IL-9 in the pathogenesis of BHR and a causal relation between IL-9 and the development of bronchial eosinophilia in asthma.
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Beil WJ, McEuen AR, Schulz M, Wefelmeyer U, Kraml G, Walls AF, Jensen-Jarolim E, Pabst R, Pammer J. Selective alterations in mast cell subsets and eosinophil infiltration in two complementary types of intestinal inflammation: ascariasis and Crohn's disease. Pathobiology 2004; 70:303-13. [PMID: 12865626 DOI: 10.1159/000071270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2002] [Accepted: 12/08/2002] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Numbers of mast cells (MCs) of different subpopulations and the extent of eosinophil infiltration were compared in Crohn's disease and ascariasis. These two types of intestinal inflammation are complementary with regard to T cell response (TH1 versus TH2), prevalence and environmental factors. METHODS Histochemical, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural tools were applied to biopsies of morphologically uninvolved colon, ileum and duodenum from Crohn's and ascariasis patients, as well as resection margins and tissues from an experimental porcine ascariasis model. MC subsets were defined by their dye-binding properties, and their chymase content was analysed using biochemical tools. RESULTS The TH2 (IgE-mediated) response in ascariasis was characterised by a dramatic increase in mucosal- type MCs (MMCs) and eosinophils in both the mucosa and the deeper layers of the intestinal wall and a simultaneous decrease of connective tissue-type MCs (CTMCs). Uninvolved intestine of Crohn's patients showed moderate proliferation of CTMCs in the deeper layers of the intestinal wall, but a significant decrease of the MMCs, associated with moderate eosinophilia in all layers of the gut. Similar changes were present in the uninvolved duodenum of Crohn's patients. Comparable amounts of chymase could be extracted from mucosal and submucosal duodenum, with similar proportions of its two principal isoforms in each. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that T cell responses (TH1 or TH2) are associated with different MC subsets in intestinal inflammation. Changes remote from the focus of inflammation point to the systemic nature of the different MC responses.
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Powe DG, Huskisson RS, Carney AS, Jenkins D, McEuen AR, Walls AF, Jones NS. Mucosal T-cell phenotypes in persistent atopic and nonatopic rhinitis show an association with mast cells. Allergy 2004; 59:204-12. [PMID: 14763935 DOI: 10.1046/j.1398-9995.2003.00315.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic rhinitis is characterized by selective expansion of T cell subsets with a CD4+ phenotype. Recently, we identified a subpopulation of nonallergic rhinitis subjects with increased epithelial mast cell and eosinophil populations, suggestive of local mucosal allergy. Previously, T cell subsets have not been characterized in this subselection of nonallergic subjects and furthermore, their relationship to mast cell and basophil effector cells remain unidentified. OBJECTIVE To determine if a subpopulation of nonallergic subjects with idiopathic rhinitis (IR) have localized allergy confined to their nasal mucosa by comparing the T cell subsets and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) II expressing cells to persistent allergic rhinitis (PAR). Furthermore, the relationship between T cell subsets and mast cells/basophils was investigated. METHODS None of the symptomatic patients in this study were clinically allergen-challenged. Nasal turbinate mucosa was removed from patients with PAR, IR and normal controls. Morphometry was performed on immunostained sections for T cell subset populations including CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD25+, CD45RA+, CD45RO+, human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DRalpha (MHC class II), mast cell tryptase and for basophils. RESULTS Subjects with persistent allergic rhinitis differed to normal controls in showing significantly increased numbers of total (CD3+), activated (CD25+) and allergen-naïve (CD45RA+) T lymphocytes in their nasal mucosa (P < 0.025). The naïve CD45RA+ memory T cells correlated to mucosal mast cells in PAR (P = 0.03). IR patients differ to allergic subjects in showing significantly reduced numbers of epithelial HLA-DRalpha+ cells (P = 0.007), but increased numbers of CD8+ lymphocytes (P = 0.02). The CD8+ T cells correlated with mucosal mast cell numbers (P = 0.02). In both rhinitis groups, basophils were present in very low numbers obviating the need for statistical analysis. CONCLUSION PAR is characterized by increased numbers of CD3+, CD25+ and CD45RA+ T lymphocytes compared with normal mucosa. Allergic and nonallergic rhinitis groups can be separated by significant differences in the number of epithelial antigen presenting cells (APCs) (HLA-DRalpha+) and sub-epithelial activated (CD25+) T cells. Moreover, IR patients do not significantly differ to their allergic counterparts with respect to total (CD3+) and naïve (CD45RA+) T cell numbers, or numbers of epithelial activated (CD25+) lymphocytes. IR subjects show significantly increased numbers of CD8+ lymphocytes compared with control mucosa and although our findings suggest that the initiating inflammatory events may differ, both rhinitis groups show a similarity in pathology involving mucosal mast cells with an association to infiltrating T cells.
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He S, Aslam A, Gaça MDA, He Y, Buckley MG, Hollenberg MD, Walls AF. Inhibitors of Tryptase as Mast Cell-Stabilizing Agents in the Human Airways: Effects of Tryptase and Other Agonists of Proteinase-Activated Receptor 2 on Histamine Release. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2004; 309:119-26. [PMID: 14722328 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.103.061291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tryptase, the major secretory product of human mast cells, is emerging as a new target for therapeutic intervention in allergic airways disease. We have investigated the ability of tryptase and inhibitors of tryptase to modulate histamine release from human lung mast cells and have examined the potential contribution of proteinase-activated receptor 2 (PAR2). The tryptase inhibitor APC366 [N-(1-hydroxy-2-naphthoyl)-L-arginyl-L-prolinamide hydrochloride] was highly effective at inhibiting histamine release stimulated by anti-IgE antibody or calcium ionophore from enzymatically dispersed human lung cells. A concentration of APC366 as low as 10 microM was able to inhibit anti-IgE-dependent histamine release by some 50%. Addition of leupeptin or the tryptic substrate N-benzoyl-D,L-arginine-p-nitroanilide also inhibited IgE-dependent histamine release. Purified tryptase in the presence of heparin stimulated a small but significant release of histamine from lung cells, suggesting that tryptase may provide an amplification signal from activated cells that may be susceptible to proteinase inhibitors. Trypsin was also able to induce histamine release apparently by a catalytic mechanism. Moreover, pretreatment of cells with metabolic inhibitors or with pertussis toxin reduced responses, indicating a noncytoxic pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein-mediated signaling process. Addition to cells of the PAR2 agonists SLIGKV-NH(2) or tc-LIGRLO-NH(2) or appropriate control peptides were without effect on histamine release, and PAR2 was not detected by immunohistochemistry in tissue mast cells. The potent actions of tryptase inhibitors as mast cell-stabilizing agents could be of value in the treatment of allergic inflammation of the respiratory tract, possibly by targeting the non-PAR2-mediated actions of tryptase.
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Sheth PD, Pedersen J, Walls AF, McEuen AR. Inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase I in the human mast cell line HMC-1: blocked activation of tryptase, but not of the predominant chymotryptic activity. Biochem Pharmacol 2004; 66:2251-62. [PMID: 14609749 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2003.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The mast cell proteases tryptase and chymase are synthesised as inactive precursors, but are stored and secreted as active enzymes. The cysteinyl protease dipeptidyl peptidase I (DPPI, cathepsin C) can activate the corresponding proenzymes in cell-free systems, but it is unknown whether it fulfils this role within the intact cell. We, therefore, tested the effect the DPPI-selective inhibitor Gly-Phe diazomethyl ketone (Gly-Phe-CHN(2)) on the tryptic and chymotryptic activity of the human mast cell-like cell line, HMC-1, and monitored any changes in the amount of immunodetectable enzymes by flow cytometry. Culture in Gly-Phe-CHN(2) produced a significant decrease in tryptase activity in cell lysates within 24hr and further decreases during continued culturing to 216 hr with periodic replenishment of Gly-Phe-CHN(2)-containing media. Flow cytometry showed no significant change in the levels of immunoreactive tryptase. In contrast, chymotryptic activity in treated cells did not differ significantly from untreated cells at any time point. Treatment of 216 hr cell lysates with DPPI revealed significant amounts of activatable protryptase in Gly-Phe-CHN(2)-treated cells, but not in controls, whereas activatable prochymotryptic activity was found in both treated and control cells. Chymase was detected immunologically, though small differences in substrate specificity and molecular mass were observed. These results strongly suggest that DPPI plays a role in the activation of tryptase, but not of the predominant chymotryptic activity of HMC-1 cells. As inhibitors of tryptase have proven efficacious in models of allergic disease, these results also indicate that inhibitors of DPPI might provide an additional point of therapeutic control.
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