Plasma mtDNA copy numbers are associated with GSTK1 expression and inflammation in type 2 diabetes

AIMS

Mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Glutathione S-transferase kappa 1 (GSTK1) is critical to maintain mitochondrial function and homeostasis. We aimed to investigate whether a potential link exists between mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy numbers and inflammation, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and GSTK1 expression in type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

We assessed mtDNA copy numbers in plasma and GSTK1 expression in white blood cells in 123 people with type 2 diabetes and in 121 healthy controls using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). An automatic chemistry or immunoassay analyser was used to determine serum glucose, lipids and inflammatory markers. Multiple linear regression and multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations and risks.

RESULTS

Compared with healthy controls, individuals with diabetes showed higher mtDNA copy numbers (t = -3.938, P < 0.001) and lower GSTK1 expression (Z = -2.985, P = 0.002). mtDNA copy number was associated with type 2 diabetes risk [odds ratio (OR) = 1.80, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.25-2.58, P = 0.001] after controlling for confounding factors. In individuals with diabetes, mtDNA copy number was negatively associated with GSTK1 expression (β = -0.235, P = 0.036) and positively associated with serum high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) (β = 0.839, P < 0.001), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) (β = 0.549, P < 0.001), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (β = 0.589, P = 0.006) and NEFA (β = 0.001, P = 0.020). In the diabetic group, individuals with an abnormal increase in NEFA, hsCRP, TNF-α and IL-6 showed significantly elevated mtDNA copy numbers (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

mtDNA copy numbers in plasma might have an important role in the progression of diabetic chronic inflammation via inhibition of GSTK1 and could be a potential biomarker for type 2 diabetes.

Enhancement of tendon-bone healing after rotator cuff injuries using combined therapy with mesenchymal stem cells and platelet rich plasma

OBJECTIVE

The injuries of rotator cuff will cause the shoulder dysfunctions. Due to limited self-regeneration abilities of the tendon-bone part, rotator cuff injuries remain a clinical challenge. Previous studies have proposed many strategies for treating this disease. In this work, we aimed to combine different strategies to achieve better beneficial effects on tendon-bone repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We isolated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and tested the effects of PRP on the gene expression, cell death resistance, and osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Then, we utilized multiple strategies to treat rotator cuff injuries. We evaluated the expression of genes that related to tissue repair, bone formation, and tendon regeneration. We also tested the biomechanical property of repair tissues.

RESULTS

We found that the in-vitro co-culture with PRP endowed MSCs with enhanced production of growth factors, better osteogenic differentiation ability, and stronger ability to resist cell death. Next, we applied MSCs, PRP, and MSCs-PRP combined therapies in rat rotator cuff injury model to compare their therapeutic effects in vivo. Through biomechanical testing, we found that the combined therapy was most efficient to promote tissue regeneration and enhance the biomechanical property of the newly generated bone.

CONCLUSIONS

The combined treatment induced strongest signals related to angiogenesis, bone formation, and tendon generation in-situ. We demonstrated that the combination of MSCs and PRP synergistically promotes tendon-bone healing and holds great promise for the treatment of rotator cuff injuries.

Changes in the hepatitis B surface antibody in childhood acute lymphocytic leukaemia survivors after treatment with the CCLG-ALL 2008 protocol

Antibody levels after hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination may be affected by suppression of the immune system due to cancer therapy. As such, childhood acute lymphocytic leukaemia (ALL) survivors are at risk of HBV infection due to immunosuppression secondary to chemotherapy. However, the hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb)-seropositive rate of childhood ALL survivors after chemotherapy is unknown, and the need to revaccinate HBsAb-seronegative ALL survivors is not appreciated in China. To assess the changes in HBsAb before and after chemotherapy, we retrospectively analyzed clinical data from 547 patients treated with the Chinese Children Leukaemia Group (CCLG)-ALL 2008 protocol from 1 April 2008 to 30 August 2019. The results revealed that 416 patients (76·1%) were HBsAb-seropositive at diagnosis, and at the time of the cessation of chemotherapy, 177 patients (32·4%) were HBsAb-seropositive and 370 patients (67·6%) were HBsAb-seronegative. Interestingly, 11 patients who were HBsAb-seronegative at diagnosis converted to seropositive at the time of the cessation of chemotherapy. HBsAb titres were decreased after chemotherapy (P < 0·0001). Further, patients with higher HBsAb titres at diagnosis were more likely to maintain protective antibody titres at the completion of chemotherapy (P < 0·0001). The loss of antibody was more remarkable in younger patients (≤ 10 years) both at diagnosis (P = 0·009) and at the completion of chemotherapy (P = 0·006). In summary, this study showed that 67·6% of patients were HBsAb-seronegative at the time of the cessation of chemotherapy, which indicates that ALL survivors are at high risk of HBV. As a result, HBV revaccination after chemotherapy should be highly valued in ALL survivors.

Meta-analysis of the effects of helmet-assisted non-invasive ventilation in the treatment of acute respiratory failure

OBJECTIVE

To study the efficacy of helmet-assisted non-invasive ventilation and conventional ventilation in the treatment of acute respiratory failure (ARF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase and CNKI databases were searched for randomized controlled trials and case-control trials of helmet-assisted noninvasive ventilation in the treatment of ARF. The outcome measures included respiratory rate, intubation rate, complication rate, mortality rate and arterial blood gas analysis of the commonly used indicators (PaCO2/ PaO2 / pH). The results of the included studies' odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidential interval (CI) were analyzed using Stata software.

RESULTS

The results of the analysis showed that the in-hospital mortality, intubation rate and complication rate were all significantly decreased with the p-value less than 0.05, which was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Helmet-assisted noninvasive ventilation can significantly reduce hospital mortality, intubation rate and complication rate, improving the survival rate and prognosis of patients with ARF.

[Protective effect of recombinant adult serine protease inhibitor from Trichinella spiralis on sepsis-associated acute kidney injury in mice]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effect of recombinant adult serine protease inhibitor from Trichinella spiralis (TsadSPI) on sepsis-associated acute kidney injury in mice.

METHODS

A total of 18 male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into the sham-operation group, the model group, and the TsadSPI treatment group, of 6 mice in each group. Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury was modeled in the model group and TsadSPI treatment group by cecal ligation puncture (CLP), while mice in the sham-operation group were only given exploratory laparotomy without ligation or perforation of the cecum. After 30 min of CLP, mice in the sham-operation group and the model group were intraperitoneally injected with PBS (100 μL), and mice in the TsadSPI treatment group were intraperitoneally injected with PBS (100 μL) containing TsadSPI (2 μg). At 12 h following modeling, the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine (Cr) and urea nitrogen (BUN) were measured to assess the liver and kidney functions, and the changes of the mouse kidney structure were observed using HE staining. In addition, the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) p65 expression was determined in kidney tissues using immunohistochemical staining.

RESULTS

At 12 h following CLP, there were significant differences in the serum levels of ALT (F = 41.031, P < 0.001), AST (F = 54.757, P < 0.001), Cr (F = 24.142, P < 0.001) and BUN (F = 214.849, P < 0.001) among the three groups, and higher levels of ALT, AST, Cr and BUN were measured in model group than in the sham-operation group (P < 0.001), while lower ALT, AST, Cr and BUN levels were found in the TsadSPI treatment group than in the model group (P < 0.001). HE staining showed severe mouse kidney injuries following CLP, and TsadSPI treatment resulted in remarkable alleviation of the injury. ELISA measured significant differences in the TNF-α (F = 47.502, P < 0.001) and IL-6 levels (F = 222.061, P < 0.001) among the three groups, and showed a remarkable reduction in the TNF-α and IL-6 levels in the TsadSPI treatment group as compared to those in the model group (P < 0.001). In addition, there were significant differences in serum IL-10 (F = 16.227, P < 0.001) and TGF-β levels (F = 52.092, P < 0.001) among the three groups, and higher IL-10 and TGF-β levels were seen in the TsadSPI treatment group than in the model group (P < 0.001). Immunohistochemical staining showed greater MyD88 expression and a higher nuclear positive rate of NF-κB p65 in kidney tissues in the model group than in the TsadSPI treatment group.

CONCLUSIONS

TsadSPI may reduce the MyD88 expression and nuclear positive rate of NF-κB p65 in mouse kidney tissues to up-regulate the expression of immunomodulatory factors and down-regulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby protecting sepsis-associated acute kidney injury.

First-Principles Collision Cross Section Measurements of Large Proteins and Protein Complexes

Rotationally averaged collision cross section (CCS) values for a series of proteins and protein complexes ranging in size from 8.6 to 810 kDa are reported. The CCSs were obtained using a native electrospray ionization drift tube ion mobility-Orbitrap mass spectrometer specifically designed to enhance sensitivity while having high-resolution ion mobility and mass capabilities. Periodic focusing (PF)-drift tube (DT)-ion mobility (IM) provides first-principles determination of the CCS of large biomolecules that can then be used as CCS calibrants. The experimental, first-principles CCS values are compared to previously reported experimentally determined and computationally calculated CCS using projected superposition approximation (PSA), the Ion Mobility Projection Approximation Calculation Tool (IMPACT), and Collidoscope. Experimental CCS values are generally in agreement with previously reported CCSs, with values falling within ∼5.5%. In addition, an ion mobility resolution (CCS centroid divided by CCS fwhm) of ∼60 is obtained for pyruvate kinase (MW ∼ 233 kDa); however, ion mobility resolution for bovine serum albumin (MW ∼ 68 kDa) is less than ∼20, which arises from sample impurities and underscores the importance of sample quality. The high resolution afforded by the ion mobility-Orbitrap mass analyzer provides new opportunities to understand the intricate details of protein complexes such as the impact of post-translational modifications (PTMs), stoichiometry, and conformational changes induced by ligand binding.

High-Level Expression and Biochemical Properties of A Thermo-Alkaline Pectate Lyase From Bacillus sp. RN1 in Pichia pastoris With Potential in Ramie Degumming

Pectate lyases play an essential role in textiles, animal feed, and oil extraction industries. Pichia pastoris can be an ideal platform for pectate lyases production, and BspPel (a thermo-alkaline pectate lyase from Bacillus sp. RN1) was overexpressed by combined strategies, reaching 1859 U/mL in a 50 L fermentator. It displayed the highest activity at 80°C, and maintained more than 60% of the activity between 30 and 70°C for 1 h. It showed an optimal pH of 10.0, and exhibited remarkable stability over a wider pH range (3.0-11.0), retaining more than 80.0% of enzyme activity for 4 h. The K_m and k_cat of BspPel on PGA (polygalacturonic acid) was 2.19 g L^–1 and 116.1 s^–1, respectively. The activity was significantly enhanced by Ca²⁺, Mn²⁺, and Cu²⁺, and a slight increase was observed with the addition of Ba²⁺ and Mg²⁺. Scanning electron microscope was used to show the degumming efficiency of BspPel on ramie fibers. The loss weight was 9.2% when treated with crude enzyme supernatant and 20.8% when treated with the enzyme-chemical method, which was higher than the 14.2% weight loss in the positive control treated with 0.5% (w/v) NaOH alone. In conclusion, BspPel could be a good candidate for the ramie degumming industry.

[A multicenter randomized prospective study of concurrent chemoradiation with 60 Gy versus 50 Gy for inoperable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma]

Objective: To determine whether 60 Gy is superior to standard 50 Gy for definitive concurrent chemoradiation(CCRT) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) using modern radiation technology in a phase Ⅲ prospective randomized trial. Methods: From April 2013 to May 2017, 331 patients from 22 hospitals who were pathologically confirmed with stage ⅢA-ⅣA ESCC were randomized to 60 Gy or 50 Gy with random number table. Total of 305 patients were analyzed, including 152 in 60 Gy group and 153 in 50 Gy group. The median age was 63 years, 242(79.3%) males and 63(20.7%) females. The median length of primary tumor was 5.6 cm. The clinical characteristics between two groups were comparable. All patients were delivered 2 Gy per fraction, 5 fractions per week. Concurrent weekly chemotherapy with docetaxel (25 mg/m(2)) and cisplatin (25 mg/m(2)) and 2 cycles consolidation chemotherapy with docetaxel (70 mg/m(2)) and cisplatin (25 mg/m(2), d1-3) were administrated. The primary endpoint was local/regional progression-free survival (LRPFS). The data were compared with Pearson chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. Results: At a median follow-up of 27.3 months, the disease progression rate was 37.5% (57/152), 43.8% (67/153) in the high and standard-dose group, respectively (χ(2)=1.251, P=0.263). The 1, 2, 3-year LRPFS rate was 75.4%, 56.8%, 52.1% and 74.2%, 58.4%, 50.1%, respectively (HR: 0.95, 95%CI: 0.69-1.31, P=0.761). The 1, 2, 3-year overall survival rate was 84.1%, 64.8%, 54.1% and 85.4%, 62.9%, 54.0%, respectively (HR: 0.98, 95%CI: 0.71-1.38, P=0.927). The 1, 2, 3-year progression-free survival rate was 70.8%, 54.2%, 48.5% and 65.5%, 51.9%, 45.1%, respectively (HR: 0.93, 95%CI: 0.68-1.26, P=0.621). The incidence rates in toxicities between the two groups were similar except for higher rate of severe pneumonitis in high dose group (χ(2)=11.596, P=0.021). Conclusions: The efficacy in disease control is similar between 60 Gy and 50 Gy using modern radiation technology concurrent with chemotherapy for ESCC. The 50 Gy should be recommended as the regular radiation dose with CCRT for ESCC.

SAT0017 METABOLIC CHANGES INDUCED BY ANTI-MALONDIALDEHYDE/MALINDIALDEHYDE-ACETALDEHYDE ANTIBODIES PROMOTE OSTEOCLAST DEVELOPMENT

Background:

Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a highly reactive compound produced by lipid-peroxidation in situations associated with oxidative stress. MDA can irreversibly modify proteins residues such as lysine, arginine and histidine. In addition, MDA adducts can further react with acetaldehyde to generate malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde (MAA) modifications. Such modifications can give rise to immunogenic neo-epitopes that are recognized by autoantibodies. In fact, anti-MDA/MAA IgG antibodies are significantly increased in the serum of patients with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (1) and systemic lupus erythematosus (2). Recently, we have shown that anti-MDA/MAA IgG antibodies are able to promote osteoclast (OC) differentiationin vitro(1).

Objectives:

To investigate the molecular mechanisms triggered by anti-MDA/MAA autoantibodies during osteoclastogenesis.

Methods:

OCs were generated from monocyte-derived macrophages in the presence of the cytokines RANK-L and M-CSF. The development of OCs was monitored by light microscopy following tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and erosion area on synthetic calcium phosphate-coated plates. Three different recombinant human monoclonal anti-MDA/MAA antibodies, cloned from single synovial B cells of RA patients, control antibodies and Fab fragments of the antibodies were added to OC cultures. Glycolysis was inhibited by 2-deoxyglucose, and Fc-gamma receptor I or II by anti-CD64 or anti-CD16 neutralizing antibodies. IL-8 levels were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Cellular metabolism was monitored using Seahorse XF Analyzer (extracellular acidification rate and oxygen consumption) and a colorimetric L-Lactate assay.

Results:

Lactic acid production correlated with the osteoclastogenetic effect of some but not all anti-MDA/MAA antibodies on OCs (R=0.4758, p=0.0252) suggesting an antibody-mediated regulation of glycolysis. Further, extracellular acidification (ECAR) and oxygen consumption (OCR) rate of the developing OCs were increased by the osteoclastogenic anti-MDA/MAA clones (maximum increase of 54% for the ECAR and 78% for the OCR by clone 146+:01G07, and maximum increase of 28% for the ECAR and 39% for the OCR by clone 1103:01H05), but not by the non-osteoclastogenetic anti-MDA/MAA clones or control antibodies. The glycolysis inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose completely abolished the osteoclastogenetic effect of the anti-MDA/MAA clones at drug concentrations that did not influenced baseline OC development. Fab2 fragments of the osteocalstogenetic anti-MDA/MAA clones had no effect on OC development and metabolism. In accordance with this, Fc-gamma receptor I neutralizing antibodies completely abolished the osteocalstogenetic effect of the anti-MDA/MAA clones. The osteoclastogenetic effect of the anti-MDA/MAA antibodies was independent of IL-8 production. In contrast to anti MDA/MAA antibodies, ACPA-mediated osteoclastogenesis was independent of glycolysis and Fc-gamma receptors but dependent on IL-8.

Conclusion:

Our results describe a novel glycolysis-dependent mechanism by which anti-MDA/MAA antibodies promote osteoclast development that is different from the one previously described for ACPA.

References:

[1] C. Grönwall et al. Journal of Autoimmunity 84 (2017) 29-45.

[2] C. Wang et al. Arthritis and Rheumatism 62 (2010) 2064-2072

Disclosure of Interests:

Koji Sakuraba: None declared, Akilan Krishnamurthy: None declared, Alexandra Circiumaru: None declared, Meng Sun: None declared, Vijay Joshua: None declared, Marianne Engström: None declared, Xiaowei Zheng: None declared, Cheng Xu: None declared, Khaled Amara: None declared, Vivianne Malmström Grant/research support from: VM has had research grants from Janssen Pharmaceutica, Sergiu-Bogdan Catrina: None declared, Caroline Grönwall: None declared, Bence Réthi: None declared, Anca Catrina: None declared

THU0228 PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF LEFLUNOMIDE ON THE SALIVARY SECRETION OF SUBMANDIBULAR GLAND IN THE NOD MOUSE

Background:

A study of 15 PSS patients showed that leflunomide had no significant effect on the decrease of salivary flow rate and the formation of lymphocytic infiltrates in salivary glands[1]. However, due to the small number of samples included in this study and the small size of human salivary gland biopsies, the therapeutic effect of leflunomide may be underestimated. At present, there is no further study on this issue, the effect of leflunomide on Sjogren’s syndrome is still not clear.

Objectives:

To investigate the therapeutic effect of leflunomide on salivary gland secretion dysfunction in the NOD mice with Sjogren’s syndrome.

Methods:

The NOD mice were randomly divided into four groups: preventive drug group, preventive control group, therapeutic drug group, and therapeutic control group. Salivary flow rate was measured after pilocarpine stimulation; After hematoxylin and eosin staining, the average number and area of infiltrating lesions were compared; The percentage of CD3+T, CD4+T, CD8+T, CD44+CD62L-CD4+T, CD19+B, and CD138+B cells in submandibular gland and spleen were detected by flow cytometry; The levels of serum inflammatory factors TNF-a, IL-17A and IL-6 were detected by CBA method.

Results:

The salivary flow rate (t = -5.81, P<0.001; z =-3.61,P<0.05), the number of infiltrating foci(t=3.95,P<0.01; t=4.94,P<0.001)and the average area of infiltrating foci(t=3.18.61,P<0.05; z=2.35,P<0.05)in the treatment groups were significantly ameliorated. CD4+T cells(t=2.39 P<0.05; t´=3.82 P<0.01)and CD44+CD62L-CD4+T cells(t´=3.53,P<0.05; t´=3.36,P<0.05)in the submandibular gland were significantly decreased. CD3+T(t=6.08, P<0.001; t=2.76,P<0.05),CD4+T(t´=3.73,P<0.05; t=2.39, P<0.05), CD19+B(t=5.88,P<0.001; t´=4.23, P<0.01) and CD138+B (t=4.30, P<0.001; t=4.46, P<0.01) cells in the spleen were also significantly decreased. In addition, the serum IL-17A of the treatment group reduced to lower level(t=4.15,p<0.01;t=3.36,p<0.01),and the TNF-a level of the preventive drug group decreased(t=4.56; p<0.001).

Figure 1.

Leflunomide reduced lymphocyte infiltration and improved salivary gland function in NOD mice. A-D: Histology of the submandibular glands of NOD mice in control and treated groups. E-H: The comparison of the submandibular gland index, salivary flow rate, number of infiltrating foci and average area of the submandibular gland, between the control and treated groups. (mean±SD; n=7 per group; * P<0.05, ** P<0.01, *** P<0.001).

Figure 2.

Changes of lymphocyte subsets in submandibular gland and spleen A-L: Frequencies of CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, CD44+ CD62L-CD4+T cells, CD19+ T cells and CD138+ B cells in the SMG tissues and the spleen collected from treated group and control group. (mean±SD; n=7 per group; * P<0.05, ** P<0.01, *** P<0.001).

Figure 3.

The proinflammatory cytokine levels of TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-6 in the serum samples from the treated and control group. (mean±SD; n=7 per group; * P<0.05, ** P<0.01, *** P<0.001).

Conclusion:

Leflunomide may prevent and improve salivary gland hypofunction and inhibit immune activation in NOD mice, providing a theoretical basis for evaluating leflunomide in the treatment of Sjogren’s syndrome.

References:

[1]Van Woerkom JM, Kruize A A, Geenen R, et al. Safety and efficacy of leflunomide in primary Sjögren’s syndrome: a phase II pilot study [J]. Ann. Rheum. Dis, 2007, 66(8): 1026-32.

DOI:10.1136/ard.2006.060905.

Acknowledgments :

The authors thank the Center for Scientific Research of Anhui Medical University for valuable help in our experiment.

Disclosure of Interests: :

None declared

THU0242 REGULATORY ROLE OF TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR BLIMP-1 IN SJÖGREN’S SYNDROME

Background:

The pathogenesis of primary sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is multifactorial. Self-antigen-driven responses perform a vital function in the development of autoimmune diseases [1]. B cells, only 20-25% of total infiltrating cells in labial glands, are the cellular basis for spontaneous antibody production [2].Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified Blimp-1 as a susceptibility gene for autoimmune diseases and played an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases [3].

Objectives:

To investigate the expression and effect of B lymphocyte induced maturation protein 1 (Blimp-1) in pSS and the correlation of Blimp-1 with B cell subsets and clinical features.

Methods:

The PRDM1 mRNA expression in B lymphocyte and labial gland were examined by RT-PCR. The levels of B cell subsets were examined by flow cytometry. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to examine the invasion degree of lymph cell and Blimp-1 distribution, respectively. The correlation of PRDM1 mRNA with B cell subsets and clinical indicators were also analyzed.

Results:

The levels of PRDM1 mRNA expression of B cells were significantly higher in SS than in healthy controls (HC) and which were also significantly higher in the high immunoglobulin (Ig) group than that in normal Ig group (P<0.02, Fig. 1a-b). The number of CD19+B cells and CD138+ plasma cells(PC) have increased while the CD27+ cells decreased in SS(P<0.05). The percentage of PC and PC/B is positively correlated with PRDM1 mRNA(r=0.380,P=0.002;r=0.317,P=0.009, Fig. 1c-d). Blimp-1 expression level showed a positive correlation with invasion degree of lymph cell in histology (Fig. 2a-c), Ig levels and ESSDAI score and an inverse correlation with the glucocorticoids usage (Fig. 3c).

Fig. 1

(a-b) RT-PCR showed that PRDM1 mRNA expression in SS patients and HC. (c-d) Correlation between PRDM1 mRNA expression and PC and PC/B.

Fig. 2

(a) Expression of Blimp-1 in labial glands of sjögren’s syndrome. (b) PRDM1 mRNA levels in different invasion degree of lymph cell group. (c) Correlation between PRDM1 mRNA expression and invasion degree of lymph cell. *p<0.05, ***p<0.001.

Fig. 3

(a-b) RT-PCR showed that PRDM1 mRNA expression in different usage of glucocorticoids. (c) Correlation between PRDM1 mRNA expression and different glucocorticoid usage. **p<0.01, ***p<0.001.

Conclusion:

Blimp-1 displayed high expression in SS, which could affect pSS disease activity. SS activity is suppressed by glucocorticoid which might be through inhibition of Blimp-1.

References:

[1]Kapsogeorgou EK, Abu-Helu RF, Moutsopoulos HM, Manoussakis MN (2005) Salivary gland epithelial cell exosomes: A source of autoantigenic ribonucleoproteins. Arthritis Rheum 52(5):1517-21.https://doi.org/10.1002/art.21005

[2]Arneth BM (2019) Impact of B cells to the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis. J Neuroinflammation 16(1):128.https://doi.org/10.1186/s12974-019-1517-1

[3]Bönelt P, Wöhner M, Minnich M et al (2019) Precocious expression of Blimp-1 in B cells causes autoimmune disease with increased self-reactive plasma cells. EMBO J 38(2). pii:e100010.https://doi.org/10.15252/embj.2018100010

Table 1.

Clinical characteristics of pSS and HC.

HC(n=17)pSS(n=50)Sex (Male/Female)0/170/50Age(x±s)45.24±18.5546.8±11.05Xerostomia(positive/negative)0/1743/7Keratoconjunctivitis sicca0/1735/15Arthralgia0/1732/18Fatigue0/1718/32ESSDAI(x±s)-2.78±1.61 (0~7)ESSPRI(x±s)-3.3±1.39 (1~6)ANA(positive/negative)-49/1SSA-49/1SSB-18/32

pSS: primary sjögren ‘s syndrome; HC: Healthy controls; ESSDAI: The European League Against Rheumatism Sjögren’s Syndrome Disease Activity Index; ESSPRI: EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Patient Reported Index.** P<0.01,*** P<0.001.

Acknowledgments :

This study was supported by the grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81871271).

Disclosure of Interests: :

None declared

AB0043 THE IMBALANCE OF T FOLLICULAR REGULATORY CELL AND T FOLLICULAR HELPER CELL IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease which can lead to severe joint damage and disability.The relationship between antibodies and rheumatoid arthritis has long been well established. Recently, many studies have found that T follicular regulatory cells(Tfr) and T follicular helper cells (Tfh) are closely related to antibody generation on lymphoid follicular germinal centers (GCs)[1-2]. Tfr cells can inhibite the GC reaction and suppress production of high-affinity antibodies. The dysregulation of Tfh cells can lead to the production of autoantibodies by B cells.

Objectives:

To examine the expression of circulating T follicular regulatory cell (Tfr) and T follicular helper cell and its subsets(Tfh1 Tfh2 Tfh17) in RA patients and healthy control group.

Methods:

Level of Tfr and Tfh1,Tfh2 and Tfh17 cells in the peripheral blood of 17 new RA patients, 30 treated RA patients and 18 healthy controls were deceted by flow cytomery. All patients were hospitalised at the Department of Rheumatology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University.

Results:

We found that the level of Tfr (CD3+CD4+CD25+CXCR5+FOP3+) percent(P=0.020), in the peripheral blood in RA patients were significantly decreased compared with healthy controls. The percent of Tfh (CD3+CD4+CXCR5+CD45RA-) (P=0.039)and Tfh17 (CD3+CD4+CXCR5+CD45RA-CXCR3-CCR6+) (P=0.000)were increased, but there are no statistical difference about Tfh1(CD3+CD4+CXCR5+CD45RA-CXCR3+CCR6-)(P=0.558) and Tfh2 (CD3+CD4+CXCR5+CD45RA-CXCR3-CCR6-) percent(P=0.079). We compared the above indicators between new and treated RA patients, and the results indicated that the Tfr(P=0.013),Tfh (P=0.002) and Tfh1(P=0.034) were significantly increased in the new RA patients compared to the treated RA patients, there were no differences between the two groups in Tfh2(P=0.419) and Tfh17 percent(P=0.124).

Conclusion:

Our results indicated that disorder of Tfr and Tfh subsets were involved in RA, restoring the Tfr/Tfh balance may be the potential therapeutic targets.

Fig. 1.

Comparison of Tfr, Tfh and its subsets(Tfh1 Tfh2 Tfh17) percent among the RA patients (n = 47) and healthy control group (n = 18) (*P < 0.05).

Fig. 2.

Comparison of Tfr,Tfh and its subsets(Tfh1 Tfh2 Tfh17) percent among the new RA patients (n = 17) and treated RA patients(n = 30) (*P < 0.05).

References:

[1]Deng J, Wei Y, Fonseca VR, Graca L, Yu D.T follicular helper cells and T follicular regulatory cells in rheumatic diseases[J].Nat Rev Rheumatol. 2019, 15(8):475-490.

[2]Chen Liu, Dongwei Wang, Songsong Lu, et al.Increased Circulating Follicular Treg Cells Are Associated With Lower Levels of Autoantibodies in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in Stable Remission.Arthritis Rheumatol. 2018, 70(5):711-721

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

AB0630 IMBALANCE BETWEEN Th17 AND REGULATORY T CELLS IN PATIENTS WITH PM/DM COMBINED WITH EBV/CMV VIRAEMIA

Background:

Dermatomyositis and polymyositis (DM/PM) are associated with muscle weakness and inflammatory infiltration within the skeletal muscle. The numerical and functional defects of immune cells, due to long-term uses of glucocorticoids and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) together with immune disturbances associated with disease itself, lead to high risks in opportunistic infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV).1-2We want to observe changes of peripheral lymphcytessubsets in PM/DM patients with EBV and/or CMV infection,especially whether there is imblance between Th17 and Treg cells.

Objectives:

To investigate the characteristics of peripheral lymphocyte subsets in PM/DM with EBV and/or CMV infection, especially the Th17 and Treg cells.

Methods:

From February 2016 to November 2019, PM/DM patients with EBV and/or CMV viremia (infection group, n=34) and without infection (non-infection group, n=31) as well as healthy adult controls (n=20) were enrolled in our study. Absolute numbers of total T, total B, NK, CD4 + T, CD8 + T cells, and CD4 + T subsets (Th1, Th2, Th17 and Treg cells) in peripheral blood by flow cytometry combined with standard absolute counting beads.

Results:

(1) Compared with PM/DM patients without infection, 34 PM/DM patients with EBV and/or CMV infection, including 12 patients with EBV, 20 patients with CMV, 2 patients combined EBV and CMV, the absolute number of total T lymph cells (P=0.019), total B lymph cells (P=0.037), NK cells (P=0.033), CD4 + T cells (P=0.000), Th1 cells (P=0.014), Th2 cells (P=0.003), Th17 cells (P=0.003), Treg cells (P=0.004) lower than its of (P=0.003) patients without infection, the absolute number of CD8 + T cells (P=0.427) has no obvious difference between them.

(2) And its the absolute number of total T lymph cells (P=0.000), total B lymph cells (P=0.003), NK cells (P=0.000), CD4 + T cells (P=0.000), CD8 + T cells (P=0.006), Th1 cells (P=0.000), Th2 cells (P=0.001), Th17 cells (P=0.000) and Treg cells (P=0.000) significantly lower than healthy control.

(3) Compared with the healthy control,the absolute number of total T lymph cells (P=0.000), NK cells (P=0.000), CD4 + T cells (P=0.031), CD8 + T cells (P=0.000), Th1 cells (P=0.002), Th2 cells (P=0.031), and Treg cells (P=0.000) in PM/DM without infection evidently lower, but there is no siginificant difference in absolute number of total B lymph cells (P=0.19) and Th17 cells (P=0.171).

Conclusion:

We show that the absolute number of peripheral blood lymphocytes and CD4+T subsets in patients with PM/DM with EBV and/or CMV viremia is further reduced. In addition to Treg cells, a decrease in Th17 cells may also be an important feature of EBV and/or CMV infection in DM/PM. These cell reductions may be the cause and risk indicator of viral infections.

References:

[1]Yang X, Hao Y, Zhang X, et al. Mortality of Chinese patients with polymyositis and dermatomyositis. Clin Rheumatol. 2020 Jan 4. doi: 10.1007/s10067-019-04910-w. [Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 31902027

[2]Matsushita T,Kobayashi T, Kano M, et al. Elevated serum B-cell activating factor levels in patients with dermatomyositis: Association with interstitial lung disease. J Dermatol.2019:46:1190-6. doi:10.1111/1346-8138.15117

Figure.

Absolute numbers of peripheral lymphocyte subsets between healthy controls and patients were assessed by fow cytometry using oneplatform method. PM/DM infection group (n=34), PM/DM non- infection group(n=31)and healthy control group (n = 20).(*p<0.05, **p<0.01, ***p<0.001)

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

Effects of laying breeder hens dietary β-carotene, curcumin, allicin, and sodium butyrate supplementation on the jejunal microbiota and immune response of their offspring chicks

Our long-term goal is to improve chick health and reduce the use of antibiotics in the poultry industry via maternal effects. To link jejunal microbes with chicks' different immune levels and growth performance in our previous research, this study investigated jejunal microbes, jejunal inflammation, and immune responses based on a comparison between different groups. Newly hatched Hy-Line chicks were allotted into 3 groups: a chick control group (cCON), a ciprofloxacin lactate treatment group (Cipro)—the chicks of the cCON and Cipro groups were hatched from laying breeder hens given a basal diet—and a 5-wk β-carotene, curcumin, allicin, and sodium butyrate supplementation group (cCCAB), wherein chicks hatched from laying breeder hens. All groups were fed the same diet for 4 wk; the Cipro group was given ciprofloxacin lactate in drinking water continuously. At the end of the experiment, the results demonstrated that the jejunal microbes of the Cipro group showed significant changes in alpha and beta diversity, and in taxonomy at phylum and genus levels. Statistically, a total of 67 significantly enriched (P < 0.05) taxa were identified between groups by linear discriminant analysis effect size; Firmicutes was significantly enriched (P < 0.05) in the cCCAB group, 65 taxa were significantly enriched (P < 0.05) in the Cipro group, and 32 of the 65 enriched (P < 0.05) taxa were in the Proteobacteria phylum of the Cipro group. Levels of lipopolysaccharide in jejunal content, and nuclear factor kappa-B, and tumor necrosis factor-α in jejunums of the Cipro and cCCAB groups were increased (all P < 0.05) compared to those in the cCON group. There was obvious neutrophil infiltration and upregulated (all P < 0.05) IL-6 mRNA in the Cipro group jejunums compared to the cCON and cCCAB groups. The expression of PSME3 and PSME4 genes was upregulated (all P < 0.05) in the cCCAB group compared to the cCON and Cipro groups. In conclusion, ciprofloxacin lactate administration led to potential hazards in health and growth in chicks via microbial disturbances-induced jejunal inflammation, and laying breeder hens dietary supplementation with β-carotene, curcumin, allicin, and sodium butyrate could enhance jejunal immunity of their offspring via the interaction between host innate immunity selected microbial colonization and microbiota educated adaptive immunity.

Collision-Induced Unfolding Studies of Proteins and Protein Complexes using Drift Tube Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometer

Elucidating the structures and stabilities of proteins and their complexes is paramount to understanding their biological functions in cellular processes. Native mass spectrometry (MS) coupled with ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) is emerging as an important biophysical technique owing to its high sensitivity, rapid analysis time, and ability to interrogate sample complexity or heterogeneity and the ability to probe protein structure dynamics. Here, a commercial IMS-MS platform has been modified for static native ESI emitters and an extended mass-to-charge range (20 kDa m/z) and its performance capabilities and limits were explored for a range of protein and protein complexes. The results show new potential for this instrument platform for studies of large protein and protein complexes and provides a roadmap for extending the performance metrics for studies of even larger, more complex systems, namely, membrane protein complexes and their interactions with ligands.

[Status on the use of anti-hypertensive drugs in the southwest areas of China]

Objective: To understand the current status of anti-hypertensive drug use in patients with hypertension in the Southwest areas of China. Methods: Based on the Program of Screening and Intervention Subjects with High Risk Cardiovascular Diseases, this study presented information on adults aged 35-75 in Southwest China by convenient sampling method, from January 2016 to November 2018. Basic information and cardiovascular related data were collected. Data on hypertensive patients were recorded, including names, doses and frequency of anti-hypertensive drugs they used. Information on the use of anti-hypertensive drugs among different hypertension subgroups, potential related characteristics, types and combination patterns of drugs, etc., were analyzed. Results: A total of 394 957 subjects were included in the study, with 159 014 identified as being hypertensive [mean age (58.8±9.5) years, 40.2% male]. 29.8% of them ever received antihypertensive drugs. A total of 30 445 of the patients reported detailed information of the drugs they ever used and 22.5% of them received therapy of combined drugs. Rates of using combination therapy were consistent among subgroups with different age, gender, blood pressure level and history of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Results from the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that patients with previous cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, obesity or diabetes were more likely to have received combined therapy, while patients with less education or lower income were in the opposite. Calcium antagonists (58.6%) were the main drugs being used in single drug therapy, while traditional fixed-dose combination drugs (31.4%) were the most common ones in the drug-combination therapy, followed by angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker combined with calcium antagonists (22.4%). Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker combined with beta blocker was the main drug used in patients with coronary heart disease. Conclusions: Treatment programs using the antihypertensive drugs for hypertensive patients in Southwest China needs to be improved, since the irrational use of antihypertensive drugs still exists. However, we would encourage the use of combination therapy for hypertensive patients.

Porphyromonas gingivalis Induces Insulin Resistance by Increasing BCAA Levels in Mice

Insulin resistance is one of the critical pathogeneses of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Elevated levels of plasma branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are associated with insulin resistance. Recent studies have demonstrated the role of Porphyromonas gingivalis in the development of insulin resistance. However, the mechanisms by which P. gingivalis induces insulin resistance are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether P. gingivalis induces insulin resistance through BCAA biosynthesis. We established a murine model of periodontitis by infecting mice with P. gingivalis. Alveolar bone loss, insulin sensitivity, and the plasma level of BCAAs were measured. A P. gingivalis BCAA aminotransferase-deficient strain (∆bcat) was constructed, and its kinetic growth, biofilm formation, and in vivo colonization were compared with its wild-type strain. Alveolar bone loss, insulin sensitivity, and the plasma level of BCAAs of the mice infected with either wild-type strain or ∆bcat strain were further measured. We found that periodontal infection with P. gingivalis significantly upregulated the plasma level of BCAAs and aggravated the high-fat diet (HFD)-induced insulin resistance. Bcat deletion did not alter the growth, biofilm formation, and in vivo colonization of P. gingivalis. More important, the ∆bcat strain was unable to upregulate the plasma level of BCAAs and induce insulin resistance in HFD-fed mice. These findings suggest that the BCAA biosynthesis of P. gingivalis plays a critical role in the development of insulin resistance in the HFD-fed mice. The BCAA biosynthesis pathways may provide a potential target for the disruption of linkage between periodontitis and T2DM.