Infiltration of CD1a-positive dendritic cells in advanced laryngeal cancer correlates with unfavorable outcomes post-laryngectomy

Background

The prognosis of advanced laryngeal cancer is unfavorable despite advances in multidisciplinary therapy. Dendritic cells (DCs) play a central role in antitumor immunity. Tumor-infiltrating CD1a⁺ DCs have been reported to be associated with clinical outcomes in carcinomas of various organs, but the clinical impact of CD1a⁺ DCs in laryngeal cancer remains to be unequivocally established.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the cases of 57 patients with Stage III or IV laryngeal cancer who underwent a total laryngectomy. Immunohistochemistry detection of CD1a, S100 and CD8 was performed on representative resected specimens. CD1a⁺ DCs, S100⁺ DCs and CD8⁺ cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs) were evaluated, and the cases divided into high and low groups according to the cut-off of the median values for each of these 3 parameters.

Results

Compared to the CD1a-low group, the CD1a-high group had more advanced cases and showed significantly worse disease-specific survival (DSS) (P = 0.008) and overall survival (OS) (P = 0.032). The analyses of S100 DCs and CD8⁺ CTLs revealed no significant impact on clinical outcomes. However, multivariate analysis revealed that infiltration of CD1a⁺ DCs was an independent unfavorable prognostic factor for both DSS (P = 0.009) and OS (P = 0.013).

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that the infiltration of CD1a⁺ DCs was associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes in patients with advanced laryngeal cancer who underwent a total laryngectomy as the initial treatment.

Can preclinical drug development help to predict adverse events in clinical trials?

The development of novel therapeutics is associated with high rates of attrition, with unexpected adverse events being a major cause of failure. Serious adverse events have led to organ failure, cancer development and deaths that were not expected outcomes in clinical trials. These life-threatening events were not identified during therapeutic development due to the lack of preclinical safety tests that faithfully represented human physiology. We highlight the successful application of several novel technologies, including high-throughput screening, organs-on-chips, microbiome-containing drug-testing platforms and humanised mouse models, for mechanistic studies and prediction of toxicity. We propose the incorporation of similar preclinical tests into future drug development to reduce the likelihood of hazardous therapeutics entering later-stage clinical trials.

Lactococcus lactis Delivery of Surface Layer Protein A Protects Mice from Colitis by Re-Setting Host Immune Repertoire

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by gastrointestinal inflammation comprised of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 1.3% of the population of the United States (approximately 3 million people) were affected by the disease in 2015, and the number keeps increasing over time. IBD has a multifactorial etiology, from genetic to environmental factors. Most of the IBD treatments revolve around disease management, by reducing the inflammatory signals. We previously identified the surface layer protein A (SlpA) of Lactobacillus acidophilus that possesses anti-inflammatory properties to mitigate murine colitis. Herein, we expressed SlpA in a clinically relevant, food-grade Lactococcus lactis to further investigate and characterize the protective mechanisms of the actions of SlpA. Oral administration of SlpA-expressing L. lactis (R110) mitigated the symptoms of murine colitis. Oral delivery of R110 resulted in a higher expression of IL-27 by myeloid cells, with a synchronous increase in IL-10 and cMAF in T cells. Consistent with murine studies, human dendritic cells exposed to R110 showed exquisite differential gene regulation, including IL-27 transcription, suggesting a shared mechanism between the two species, hence positioning R110 as potentially effective at treating colitis in humans.

Bavachin exerted anti-neuroinflammatory effects by regulation of A20 ubiquitin-editing complex

Neuroinflammation is a major pathophysiological contributor to the progression of the central nervous system disorders. Bavachin is a natural product belonging to the flavonoid class. The anti-neuroinflammatory effect and the molecular mechanisms are not well understood. In this study, we found bavachin can exert anti-neuroinflammatory effect via inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling. We found that bavachin can obviously upregulate the expression of A20 (TNFAIP3) in microglial cells. Further studies suggested siRNA-A20 knockdown treatment can attenuate the inhibitory effects of bavachin on neuroinflammation. We further found bavachin can increase the interaction of ubiquitin-editing enzyme A20 complex including A20, Tax1-binding protein 1 (TAX1BP1) and Itch, the subsequently downregulated the K63-ubiquitination of TNF receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and NF-κB signaling pathway. Altogether, our results indicated that bavachin exerted anti-neuroinflammatory effects through inhibition of NF-κB signaling mediated by regulation of ubiquitin-editing enzyme A20 complex. Our finding has important clinical significance for the potential application of bavachin in the treatment of neurological disorders.

Schlafens: Emerging Proteins in Cancer Cell Biology

Schlafens (SLFN) are a family of genes widely expressed in mammals, including humans and rodents. These intriguing proteins play different roles in regulating cell proliferation, cell differentiation, immune cell growth and maturation, and inhibiting viral replication. The emerging evidence is implicating Schlafens in cancer biology and chemosensitivity. Although Schlafens share common domains and a high degree of homology, different Schlafens act differently. In particular, they show specific and occasionally opposing effects in some cancer types. This review will briefly summarize the history, structure, and non-malignant biological functions of Schlafens. The roles of human and mouse Schlafens in different cancer types will then be outlined. Finally, we will discuss the implication of Schlafens in the anti-tumor effect of interferons and the use of Schlafens as predictors of chemosensitivity.

Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Evaluation of Novel Indolyl DiHydropyrazole Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents

Indoles derived from both natural sources or artificial synthetic methods have been known to interact with aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhR), and exhibit anticancer activity. In light of these attractive properties, a series of hybrid molecules with structural features of indoles, i.e., those bearing a pyrazoline nucleus, were evaluated for their enhanced anticancer activity. The designed molecules were subjected to molecular docking in order to screen for potential AhR interacting compounds, and the identified indolyl dihydropyrazole derivatives were synthesized. The synthesized compounds were characterized, and their cytotoxicity was evaluated against four human cancer cell lines using the MTT assay. Based on the Glide g-score, H-bonding interactions and bonding energy of 20 candidate molecules were selected for further analysis from the 64 initially designed molecules. These candidate molecules have shown promising anti-proliferative activity against the cell lines tested. Among these candidate molecules, the compounds with hydroxy phenyl substitution on the pyrazoline ring have shown potent activity across all the tested cell lines. The designed scaffold was proven effective for screening potential candidate molecules with anticancer properties, and may be further optimized structurally for yielding the ideal anti-tumorigenic compound for the treatment of various cancers.

Hypertensive Patients Exhibit Enhanced Thrombospondin-1 Levels at High-Altitude

Thrombospondin-1 (THBS1) levels elevate under hypoxia and have relevance in several cardiovascular disorders. The association of THBS1 with endothelial dysfunction implies its important role in hypertension. To establish the hypothesis, we screened patients with hypertension and their respective controls from the two different environmental regions. Cohort 1 was composed of Ladakhis, residing at 3500 m above sea level (ASL), whereas Cohort 2 was composed of north-Indians residing at ~200 m ASL. Clinical parameters and circulating THBS1 levels were correlated in the case–control groups of the two populations. THBS1 levels were significantly elevated in hypertension patients of both cohorts; however, the levels were distinctly enhanced in the hypertensive patients of HA as compared to normoxia (p < 0.002). The observation was supported by the receiver operating curve analysis with an area under curve of 0.7007 (0.627–0.774) demonstrating the discriminatory effect of hypobaric hypoxia on the levels as compared to normoxia (p < 0.011). Significant correlation of THBS1 and mean arterial pressure was observed with upraised positive correlations in the hypertensive highlanders as compared to the hypertensive patients from sea-level. The prevalence of differential distribution of THBS1 and CD47 genes variants, their interactions, and association with the THBS1 levels were also determined. Genotype-interactions between THBS1 rs2228263 and CD47 rs9879947 were relevant and the regression analysis highlighted the association of risk genotype-interactions with increased THBS1 levels in hypertension. Genetic studies of additional thrombospondin pathway-related genes suggest the complex role of THBS1 in the presence of its family members and the related receptor molecules at HA.

Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting Alarmins: A New Perspective for Biological Therapies of Severe Asthma

Alarmins are innate cytokines, including thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), interleukin-33 (IL-33), and interleukin-25 (IL-25), which are mainly produced by airway epithelium and exert a prominent role in asthma pathobiology. In particular, several environmental factors such as allergens, cigarette smoking, airborne pollutants, and infectious agents trigger the release of alarmins, which in turn act as upstream activators of pro-inflammatory pathways underlying type 2 (T2-high) asthma. Indeed, alarmins directly activate group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2), eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells and also stimulate dendritic cells to drive the commitment of naïve T helper (Th) cells towards the Th2 immunophenotype. Therefore, TSLP, IL-33, and IL-25 represent suitable targets for add-on therapies of severe asthma. Within this context, the fully human anti-TSLP monoclonal antibody tezepelumab has been evaluated in very promising randomized clinical trials. Tezepelumab and other anti-alarmins are thus likely to become, in the near future, valuable therapeutic options for the biological treatment of uncontrolled severe asthma.

ZFP36L2 Role in Thyroid Functionality

Thyroid hormone levels are usually genetically determined. Thyrocytes produce a unique set of enzymes that are dedicated to thyroid hormone synthesis. While thyroid transcriptional regulation is well-characterized, post-transcriptional mechanisms have been less investigated. Here, we describe the involvement of ZFP36L2, a protein that stimulates degradation of target mRNAs, in thyroid development and function, by in vivo and in vitro gene targeting in thyrocytes. Thyroid-specific Zfp36l2-/- females were hypothyroid, with reduced levels of circulating free Thyroxine (cfT4) and Triiodothyronine (cfT3). Their hypothyroidism was due to dyshormonogenesis, already evident one week after weaning, while thyroid development appeared normal. We observed decreases in several thyroid-specific transcripts and proteins, such as Nis and its transcriptional regulators (Pax8 and Nkx2.1), and increased apoptosis in Zfp36l2-/- thyroids. Nis, Pax8, and Nkx2.1 mRNAs were also reduced in Zfp36l2 knock-out thyrocytes in vitro (L2KO), in which we confirmed the increased apoptosis. Finally, in L2KO cells, we showed an altered response to TSH stimulation regarding both thyroid-specific gene expression and cell proliferation and survival. This result was supported by increases in P21/WAF1 and p-P38MAPK levels. Mechanistically, we confirmed Notch1 as a target of ZFP36L2 in the thyroid since its levels were increased in both in vitro and in vivo models. In both models, the levels of Id4 mRNA, a potential inhibitor of Pax8 activity, were increased. Overall, the data indicate that the regulation of mRNA stability by ZFP36L2 is a mechanism that controls the function and survival of thyrocytes.

Mutational escape from cellular immunity in viral hepatitis: variations on a theme

Approx. 320 million individuals worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis viruses, contributing to viral hepatitis being one of the 10 leading causes of death. Cellular adaptive immunity, namely CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, plays an important role in viral clearance and control. Two main mechanisms, however, may lead to failure of the virus-specific T-cell response: T-cell exhaustion and mutational viral escape. Viral escape has been studied in detail in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, where it is thought to affect approx. 50% of virus-specific CD8+ T-cell responses in persistent infection, to influence natural infection outcome and to contribute to failure of preventive vaccination strategies. In hepatitis B virus (HBV) as well as HBV/hepatitis D virus (HDV) co-infection, the impact of viral escape has been studied in detail only recently.

Interfering with SARS-CoV-2: are interferons friends or foes in COVID-19?

Type I and type III interferons are among the most potent anti-viral cytokines produced by the immune system. The recent outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, underscores the vital role of these cytokines in controlling the virus and dictating disease severity. Here we delineate the pathways that lead to interferon production in response to SARS-CoV-2 encounter, and elucidate how this virus hinders the production and action of these cytokines; we also highlight that these interferon families serve protective as well as detrimental roles in patients with COVID-19, and conclude that a better understanding of the time, dose, localization, and activity of specific members of the interferon families is imperative for designing more efficient therapeutic interventions against this disease.

The Defect in Regulatory T Cells in Psoriasis and Therapeutic Approaches

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by accelerated tumor necrosis factor-α/interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 axis. Patients with psoriasis manifest functional defects in CD4⁺CD25⁺ forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3)⁺ regulatory T cells (Tregs), which suppress the excess immune response and mediate homeostasis. Defects in Tregs contribute to the pathogenesis of psoriasis and may attribute to enhanced inhibition and/or impaired stimulation of Tregs. IL-23 induces the conversion of Tregs into type 17 helper T (Th17) cells. IL-17A reduces transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 production, Foxp3 expression, and suppresses Treg activity. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), butyrate, propionate, and acetate are microbiota-derived fermentation products that promote Treg development and function by inducing Foxp3 expression or inducing dendritic cells or intestinal epithelial cells to produce retinoic acids or TGF-β1, respectively. The gut microbiome of patients with psoriasis revealed reduced SCFA-producing bacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Faecallibacterium, which may contribute to the defect in Tregs. Therapeutic agents currently used, viz., anti-IL-23p19 or anti-IL-17A antibodies, retinoids, vitamin D3, dimethyl fumarate, narrow-band ultraviolet B, or those under development for psoriasis, viz., signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 inhibitors, butyrate, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and probiotics/prebiotics restore the defected Tregs. Thus, restoration of Tregs is a promising therapeutic target for psoriasis.

NF-κB inducible miR-30b-5p aggravates joint pain and loss of articular cartilage via targeting SIRT1-FoxO3a-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) contribute to osteoarthritis (OA) development. Nevertheless, the function and mechanism of miR-30b-5p in OA are unclear. In the present article, we gauged the miR-30b-5p level in OA patients and analyzed its correlation with OA stages. Then, we conducted in-vivo and in-vitro gain-of-function assays to determine the function of miR-30b-5p, silent information regulator 2 homolog 1 (SIRT1) and Fox. Cell counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, BrdU assay and flow cytometry were utilized to gauge cell viability and apoptosis of human chondrocyte (HC-A). The targeting association between miR-30b-5p and SIRT1 was validated through the dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) experiment. The results signified that miR-30b-5p was up-regulated in OA patients, OA rats and interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-induced chondrocytes. The higher miR-30b-5p expression brought about progressive stages of OA patients and enhanced levels of pro-inflammatory mediators in the synovial fluid. Functionally, overexpressing miR-30b-5p hampered cell viability, aggravated chondrocyte apoptosis and NLRP3 inflammasome activation induced by IL-1β, while down-regulating miR-30b-5p exerted the reverse effects. The in-vivo experiment exhibited that down-regulating miR-30b-5p improved joint pain and loss of articular cartilage in the rats with restrained inflammation and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Mechanistically, miR-30b-5p targeted the 3'-non-translated region (3'UTR) of SIRT1, and miR-30b-5p was inducible with NF-κB phosphorylation enhancement. Overexpressing SIRT1 or inhibiting NF-κB relieved miR-30b-5p-induced apoptosis and NLRP3 inflammasome activation by promoting FoxO3a, while down-regulating SIRT1 or FoxO3a reversed miR-30b-5p-in-induced anti-inflammatory and apoptosis-suppressive effects. Collectively, NF-κB-induced miR-30b-5p modulates chondrocyte apoptosis and OA progression by regulating the SIRT1-FoxO3a-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome.

Cardiac cellularity is dependent upon biological sex and is regulated by gonadal hormones

AIMS

Sex differences have been consistently identified in cardiac physiology and incidence of cardiac disease. However, the underlying biological causes for the differences remain unclear. We sought to characterize the cardiac non-myocyte cellular landscape in female and male hearts to determine whether cellular proportion of the heart is sex-dependent and whether endocrine factors modulate the cardiac cell proportions.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Utilizing high-dimensional flow cytometry and immunofluorescence imaging, we found significant sex-specific differences in cellular composition of the heart in adult and juvenile mice, that develops postnatally. Removal of systemic gonadal hormones by gonadectomy results in rapid sex-specific changes in cardiac non-myocyte cellular proportions including alteration in resident mesenchymal cell and leucocyte populations, indicating gonadal hormones and their downstream targets regulate cardiac cellular composition. The ectopic reintroduction of oestrogen and testosterone to female and male mice, respectively, reverses many of these gonadectomy-induced compositional changes.

CONCLUSION

This work shows that the constituent cell types of the mouse heart are hormone-dependent and that the cardiac cellular landscapes are distinct in females and males, remain plastic, and can be rapidly modulated by endocrine factors. These observations have implications for strategies aiming to therapeutically alter cardiac cellular heterogeneity and underscore the importance of considering biological sex for studies examining cardiac physiology and stress responses.

LncRNA NKILA relieves astrocyte inflammation and neuronal oxidative stress after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Ischemic stroke is one of the major diseases of the cerebral vasculature. Currently, Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of neurological disability worldwide and has a high morbidity and mortality rate. The NF-κB interacting lncRNA (NKILA), the recently identified, is a key booster of NF-κB pathway. Accumulating studies have shown that NKILA plays a cancer suppressor in a variety of malignancies by regulating the NF-κB pathway. Nevertheless, the role of NKILA in ischemic stroke remains to be elucidated.

METHODS

We constructed a mouse model of middle cerebral artery occlusion-reperfusion (MCAO/R). TTC staining and dry and wet weight method were used to evaluate infarction and water content of brain tissue. RT-qPCR was performed to detect NKILA expression in cerebral infarction tissues. After labeling astrocytes and neurons with GFAP and NeuN, respectively, EDU and TUNEL staining were performed. Inflammatory factor levels were detected by ELISA. Commercial kits were used to detect the levels of oxidative stress-related factors. In in vitro, the HT22/U251 cell co-culture model was used for oxygen-glucose deprivation and re-introduction (OGD/R) to verify the effect of NKILA on neuronal cell inflammation and oxidative stress through astrocytes.

RESULTS

In in vivo experiments, NKILA significantly reduced cerebral infarction volume, brain water content and neurological score caused by MCAO/R. Moreover, NKILA blocked the activation of the NF-κB pathway, and inhibited astrocyte proliferation and neuron apoptosis as well as inflammation and oxidative stress. In in vitro experiments, NKILA significantly inhibited NF-κB pathway in HT22 cells. In addition, NKILA alleviated the inflammatory response and oxidative stress of U251 cells mediated by HT22 cells after OGD/R, and promoted U251 cell proliferation and inhibit their apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we found for the first time that NKILA alleviates inflammatory response and oxidative stress after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion by blocking the activation of NF-κB pathway.

Human Fallopian Tube - Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibit Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Suppressing Th1/Th17 Activation and Migration to Central Nervous System

Mesenchymal stem cells comprise a natural reservoir of undifferentiated cells within adult tissues. Given their self-renewal, multipotency, regenerative potential and immunomodulatory properties, MSCs have been reported as a promising cell therapy for the treatment of different diseases, including neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. In this study, we investigated the immunomodulatory properties of human tubal mesenchymal stem cells (htMSCs) using the EAE model. htMSCs were able to suppress dendritic cells activation downregulating antigen presentation-related molecules, such as MHCII, CD80 and CD86, while impairing IFN-γ and IL-17 and increasing IL-10 and IL-4 secretion. It further correlated with milder disease scores when compared to the control group due to fewer leukocytes infiltrating the CNS, specially Th1 and Th17 lymphocytes, associated with increased IL-10 secreting Tr1 cells. Conversely, microglia were less activated and infiltrating mononuclear cells secreted higher levels of IL-4 and IL-10 and expressed reduced chemokine receptors as CCR4, CCR6 and CCR8. qPCR of the spinal cords revealed upregulation of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Taken together, here evidenced the potential of htMSCs as an alternative for the treatment of inflammatory, autoimmune or neurodegenerative diseases.

Lymphocyte activating gene 3 protein expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma is correlated with programmed cell death-1 and programmed cell death ligand-1, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes

BACKGROUND

Immunotherapy has shown promising efficacy in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Lymphocyte activating 3 gene (LAG-3) represents a significant immune target, however, its relationship with NPC remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate LAG-3 expression in NPC and its association with CD3+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), Granzyme B (GZMB), programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), and programmed death 1 (PD-1) expression.

METHODS

A total of 182 patients with NPC from Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, China, were included in this retrospective study. LAG-3 expression in 15 NPC cell lines and LAG-3, CD3+ TILs, GZMB, PD-L1 and PD-1 in clinical samples were estimated using immunohistochemistry. The Chi-square test was used to estimate the association between LAG-3, other biomarkers, and clinical characteristics. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox regression model.

RESULTS

LAG-3 was negatively expressed in all of the 15 NPC cell lines, whereas, 147 patients with NPC (80.8%) exhibited high LAG-3 expression on TILs from tumor tissues. Male patients and those who were EBV-positive presented higher LAG-3 expression. Correlation analyses showed that LAG-3 expression was related to PD-1 expression on TILs, as well as, PD-L1 expression on tumor cells (TCs) and TILs. Both the univariate and multivariate Cox models indicated that pathological type III (P = 0.036), higher LAG-3 on TILs (P < 0.001), higher PD-L1 on TCs (P = 0.027), and higher PD-1 on TILs (P < 0.001) were associated with poorer disease-free survival (DFS). However, lower PD-L1 expression on TILs was related to superior DFS only in the univariate Cox analyses (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Higher LAG-3 and PD-1 on TILs, and higher PD-L1 expression on TCs, and pathological type III were identified as independent risk factors for poorer DFS in NPC patients. Our data demonstrate that LAG-3 is a promising inhibitory receptor that may play an important role in anti-NPC therapy.

Lipopolysaccharide Regulates Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines, Corticosterone, and Melatonin in Toads

Glucocorticoids and melatonin (MEL) show integrated and complex immunomodulatory effects, mostly described for endotherms, yet underexplored in amphibians. In this context, the RT-qPCR of molecules mediating inflammatory processes in amphibians is a valuable tool to explore the relationships among molecular biology, endocrine mediators, and immune response in these animals. In this study, toads (Rhinella diptycha) received an intraperitoneal saline injection or lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 2 mg/kg). Six hours post-injection, we analyzed plasma corticosterone (CORT) and MEL levels and pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ, and C1s). We found increased CORT and decreased MEL levels in response to LPS. Also, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 were upregulated in LPS-injected toads compared with saline-injected toads. Overall, our results demonstrate an LPS-induced inflammatory response with endocrine and immune modulation in R. diptycha toads, exhibiting expected patterns for an inflammatory stimulus within this time frame (6 h post-injection). Toads were responsive to LPS by secreting different cytokines, such as proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6, related to immune cell attraction to inflammatory sites and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, which limits the rate of leukocyte infiltration, inflammation, and downregulates the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Increased circulating CORT levels are probably associated with the activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-interrenal axis by the LPS and the endocrine actions of IL-6. Furthermore, decreased circulating MEL levels are likely due to inhibited MEL secretion by the pineal gland by inflammatory stimuli, indicating the activation/existence of the immune-pineal axis in amphibians.

Faecal microbiota transplantation enhances efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy against cancer

Even though immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are effective on multiple cancer types, there are still many non-responding patients. A possible factor put forward that may influence the efficacy of ICIs is the gut microbiota. Additionally, faecal microbiota transplantation may enhance efficacy of ICIs. Nevertheless, the data available in this field are insufficient, and relevant scientific work has just commenced. As a result, the current work reviewed the latest research on the association of gut microbiota with ICI treatments based on anti-programmed cell death protein 1 antibody and anti- cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 antibody and explored the therapeutic potential of faecal microbiota transplantation in combination with ICI therapy in the future.

Associations of B7-H3 and B7-H4 Expression in Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast With Clinicopathologic Features and T-Cell Infiltration

B7-H3 and B7-H4 play an inhibitory role in T-cell function by limiting proliferation and cytokine production. Information about B7-H3 and B7-H4 expression in ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) remains uncertain. The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression levels of B7-H3 and B7-H4 in DCIS and their associations with clinicopathologic features and T-cell infiltration. B7-H3 and B7-H4 mRNA and protein expression levels in 8 pairs of DCIS tissues and matched normal adjacent tissues were examined by RNAscope in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry analysis. Immunohistochemical staining of B7-H3, B7-H4, CD3, and CD8 was performed for 79 DCIS samples using tissue microarray. RNAscope in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that expression levels of B7-H3 and B7-H4 in DCIS tissues were higher than those in corresponding normal tissues. B7-H3 and B7-H4 mRNA and protein appeared to be mainly expressed in DCIS carcinoma cells. High B7-H3 and B7-H4 expression was observed in 58 (73.4%) and 62 (78.5%) cases with DCIS, respectively. High B7-H3 expression was significantly associated with high-nuclear grade and presence of comedo-type necrosis (both P<0.05). B7-H3 expression in HR/HER2 subtype was higher than that in HR/HER2 subtype (P<0.05). B7-H3 and B7-H4 expression levels were negatively related to the density of CD3 and CD8 T-cell infiltrates. B7-H3 and B7-H4 may play an important role in immune surveillance mechanisms of DCIS. They might be useful targets to develop immune-based therapy to alter or prevent DCIS progression.

Cellular changes in eculizumab early responders with generalized myasthenia gravis

Eculizumab (ECU), a C5 complement inhibitor, is approved to treat acetylcholine receptor autoantibody positive generalized myasthenia gravis (AChR MG). The clinical effect of ECU relies on inhibition of the terminal complement complex; however, the effect of ECU on lymphocytes is largely unknown. We evaluated innate and adaptive immunity among AChR MG patients (N = 3) before ECU and ≥3 months later while on stable therapy, and found reduced activation markers in memory CD4⁺ T cell subsets, increased regulatory T cell populations, and reduced frequencies of CXCR5⁺HLA-DR⁺CCR7⁺ Tfh subsets and CD11b⁺ migratory memory B cells. We observed increases within CD8⁺ T cell subsets that were terminally differentiated and senescent. Our data suggest complement inhibition with ECU modulates the adaptive immunity in patients with MG, consistent with preclinical data showing changes in complement-mediated signaling by T- and antigen-presenting cells. These findings extend our understanding of ECU's mechanism of action when treating patients with MG.

A Split-Cre system designed to detect simultaneous expression of two genes based on SpyTag/SpyCatcher conjugation and Split-GFP dimerization

The Split-Cre system is a powerful tool for genetic manipulation and can be used to spatiotemporally control gene expression in vivo. However, the low activity of the reconstituted NCre/CCre recombinase in the Split-Cre system limits its application as an indicator of the simultaneous expression of a pair of genes of interest. Here, we describe two approaches for improving the activity of the Split-Cre system after Cre reconstitution based on self-associating split GFP (Split-GFP) and SpyTag/SpyCatcher conjugation. First, we created the Split-GFP-Cre system by constructing fusion proteins of NCre and CCre with the N-terminal and C-terminal subunits of GFP, respectively. Reconstitution of Cre by GFP-mediated dimerization of the two fusion proteins resulted in recombinase activity approaching that of full-length Cre in living cells. Second, to further increase recombinase activity at low levels of Split-Cre expression, the Split-Spy-GCre system was established by incorporating the sequences for SpyTag and SpyCatcher into the components of the Split-GFP-Cre system. As anticipated, covalent conjugation of the SpyTag and SpyCatcher segments improved Split-GFP dimerization to further increase Cre recombinase activity in living cells. The increased efficiency and robustness of this dual-split system (Split-Cre and Split-GFP) minimize the problems of incomplete double gene-specific KO or low labeling efficiency due to poor NCre/CCre recombinase activity. Thus, this Split-Spy-GCre system allows more precise gene manipulation of cell subpopulations, which will provide advanced analysis of genes and cell functions in complex tissue such as the immune system.

Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals Marker Genes and Potential Therapeutic Targets for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare cardiovascular disease with very high mortality rate. The currently available therapeutic strategies, which improve symptoms, cannot fundamentally reverse the condition. Thus, new therapeutic strategies need to be established. Our research analyzed three microarray datasets of lung tissues from human PAH samples retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We combined two datasets for subsequent analyses, with the batch effects removed. In the merged dataset, 542 DEGs were identified and the key module relevant to PAH was selected using WGCNA. GO and KEGG analyses of DEGs and the key module indicated that the pre-ribosome, ribosome biogenesis, centriole, ATPase activity, helicase activity, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, melanoma, and dilated cardiomyopathy pathways are involved in PAH. With the filtering standard (|MM| > 0.95 and |GS| > 0.90), 70 hub genes were identified. Subsequently, five candidate marker genes (CDC5L, AP3B1, ZFYVE16, DDX46, and PHAX) in the key module were found through overlapping with the top thirty genes calculated by two different methods in CytoHubb. Two of them (CDC5L and DDX46) were found to be significantly upregulated both in the merged dataset and the validating dataset in PAH patients. Meanwhile, expression of the selected genes in lung from PAH chicken measured by qRT-PCR and the ROC curve analyses further verified the potential marker genes' predictive value for PAH. In conclusion, CDC5L and DDX46 may be marker genes and potential therapeutic targets for PAH.

Metabolic enzymes function as epigenetic modulators: A Trojan Horse for chromatin regulation and gene expression

Epigenetic modification is a fundamental biological process in living organisms, which has significant impact on health and behavior. Metabolism refers to a set of life-sustaining chemical reactions, including the uptake of nutrients, the subsequent conversion of nutrients into energy or building blocks for organism growth, and finally the clearance of redundant or toxic substances. It is well established that epigenetic modifications govern the metabolic profile of a cell by modulating the expression of metabolic enzymes. Strikingly, almost all the epigenetic modifications require substrates produced by cellular metabolism, and a large proportion of metabolic enzymes can transfer into nucleus to locally produce substrates for epigenetic modification, thereby providing an alternative link between metabolism, epigenetic modification and gene expression. Here, we summarize the recent literature pertinent to metabolic enzymes functioning as epigenetic modulators in the regulation of chromatin architecture and gene expression.

Human Disease Phenotypes Associated with Loss and Gain of Function Mutations in STAT2: Viral Susceptibility and Type I Interferonopathy

STAT2 is distinguished from other STAT family members by its exclusive involvement in type I and III interferon (IFN-I/III) signaling pathways, and its unique behavior as both positive and negative regulator of IFN-I signaling. The clinical relevance of these opposing STAT2 functions is exemplified by monogenic diseases of STAT2. Autosomal recessive STAT2 deficiency results in heightened susceptibility to severe and/or recurrent viral disease, whereas homozygous missense substitution of the STAT2-R148 residue is associated with severe type I interferonopathy due to loss of STAT2 negative regulation. Here we review the clinical presentation, pathogenesis, and management of these disorders of STAT2.

Ameliorative Effects of Cardamonin on Monosodium Urate-Induced Gouty Arthritis through Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Mediation

Background and Objectives: Gouty arthritis is an acute inflammatory response caused by the precipitation of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in joints. The triggering of MSU leads to increased production of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β, which in turn lead to the formation of macromolecular complexes, referred to as inflammasomes. Thorough characterization of the NLRP3 inflammasome can be used as an indicator of an immune response against harmful stimuli. Cardamonin is a chalcone, mainly found in the seeds of Alpinia katsumadai, and exhibits anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro. However, the mechanism by which cardamonin treatment alleviates gouty arthritis has yet to be fully elucidated. Materials and Methods: In vitro or in vivo models were used to study whether cardamonimn inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation or suppressed gouty inflammation. Results: In the current study, we determined that most NLRP3 was released passively after MSU stimulation, and this release of NLRP3 promoted caspase-1 activation and IL-1β secretion. Cardamonin was shown to decrease both the activity of caspase-1 and secretion of IL-1β in J774A.1 macrophage cells subjected to MSU stimulation. Cardamonin was also shown to attenuate the production of COX-2 in MSU-stimulated J774A.1 macrophage cells. Finally, cardamonin reduced the thickness of the synovial lining and the infiltration of gouty arthritis in a rat model. Conclusions: Overall, cardamonin significantly attenuated IL-1β secretion, caspase-1 activity, and COX-2 production stimulated by MSU. These findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of cardamonin treatment for gouty arthritis.

Dysregulated Microglial Cell Activation and Proliferation Following Repeated Antigen Stimulation

Upon reactivation of quiescent neurotropic viruses antigen (Ag)-specific brain resident-memory CD8+ T-cells (bT_RM) may respond to de novo-produced viral Ag through the rapid release of IFN-γ, which drives subsequent interferon-stimulated gene expression in surrounding microglia. Through this mechanism, a small number of adaptive bT_RM may amplify responses to viral reactivation leading to an organ-wide innate protective state. Over time, this brain-wide innate immune activation likely has cumulative neurotoxic and neurocognitive consequences. We have previously shown that HIV-1 p24 Ag-specific bT_RM persist within the murine brain using a heterologous prime-CNS boost strategy. In response to Ag restimulation, these bT_RM display rapid and robust recall responses, which subsequently activate glial cells. In this study, we hypothesized that repeated challenges to viral antigen (Ag) (modeling repeated episodes of viral reactivation) culminate in prolonged reactive gliosis and exacerbated neurotoxicity. To address this question, mice were first immunized with adenovirus vectors expressing the HIV p24 capsid protein, followed by a CNS-boost using Pr55Gag/Env virus-like particles (HIV-VLPs). Following the establishment of the bT_RM population [>30 days (d)], prime-CNS boost animals were then subjected to in vivo challenge, as well as re-challenge (at 14 d post-challenge), using the immunodominant HIV-1 AI9 CD8+ T-cell epitope peptide. In these studies, Ag re-challenge resulted in prolonged expression of microglial activation markers and an increased proliferative response, longer than the challenge group. This continued expression of MHCII and PD-L1 (activation markers), as well as Ki67 (proliferative marker), was observed at 7, 14, and 30 days post-AI9 re-challenge. Additionally, in vivo re-challenge resulted in continued production of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) with elevated levels observed at 7, 14 and 30 days post re-challenge. Interestingly, iNOS expression was significantly lower among challenged animals when compared to re-challenged groups. Furthermore, in vivo specific Ag re-challenge produced lower levels of arginase (Arg)-1 when compared with the challenged group. Taken together, these results indicate that repeated Ag-specific stimulation of adaptive immune responses leads to cumulative dysregulated microglial cell activation.

Retinoic Acid Induces Functionally Suppressive Foxp3+RORγt+ T Cells In Vitro

Introduction

CD4⁺ T cells with regulatory function co-expressing Foxp3 and RORγt are linked to the development of oral tolerance towards innocuous food antigens in mice. This study aimed to discern the role played by IL-6 and retinoic acid (RA) in the in vitro generation of Foxp3⁺RORγt⁺ T cells and to investigate whether such cells have suppressive properties.

Methods

CD4⁺CD25^- T cells isolated from the spleen of BALB/c mice, were stimulated in the presence of IL-2 alone or together with TFG-β and different concentrations of IL-6 and/or RA. Percentage of Foxp3⁺, RORγt⁺, IL-17⁺, Foxp3⁺RORγt^-, Foxp3⁺RORγt⁺, and Foxp3^-RORγt⁺ T cells within the total CD4⁺ T cell population, production of cytokines (IL-10 and IL-17A) and gene expression (Foxp3, Rorc, Tgfb1, Il6, Il10, and Il17) were assessed at different time points. The phenotype and ability of cells generated from CD4⁺CD44^-CD62L⁺ cells in the presence of RA to suppress effector T cell proliferation was assessed.

Results

TGF-β plus IL-6 induced the generation of Foxp3⁺ and double positive Foxp3⁺RORγt⁺ T cells to a higher extent than TGF-β alone at the beginning of the incubation period, although expression of Foxp3 subsequently declined. RA, added to TGF-β, increased Foxp3 and Rorc expression and Foxp3 and RORγt transcription and promoted the differentiation of Foxp3⁺RORγt^- and Foxp3⁺RORγt⁺ cells that expressed and secreted IL-17. Foxp3⁺ T cells generated in vitro in presence of RA were functionally suppressive.

Conclusions

Under the influence of IL-2 and TGF-β, suppressive Foxp3⁺RORγt⁺ T cells that express and secrete IL-17 can be produced in vitro and RA further contributes to stabilize this phenotype.

Transcriptome Analysis Identifies Strategies Targeting Immune Response-Related Pathways to Control Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Infection in Porcine Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is an important cause of post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) worldwide, resulting in huge economic losses to the swine industry worldwide. In this study, to understand the pathogenesis, the transcriptomic analysis was performed to explore the biological processes (BP) in porcine intestinal epithelial J2 cells infected with an emerging ETEC strain isolated from weaned pigs with diarrhea. Under the criteria of |fold change| (FC) ≥ 2 and P < 0.05 with false discovery rate < 0.05, a total of 131 referenced and 19 novel differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified after ETEC infection, including 96 upregulated DEGs and 54 downregulated DEGs. The Gene Ontology (GO) analysis of DEGs showed that ETEC evoked BP specifically involved in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and negative regulation of intracellular signal transduction. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed that immune response-related pathways were mainly enriched in J2 cells after ETEC infection, in which tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin 17, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways possessed the highest rich factor, followed by nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain-like receptor (NLRs), C-type lectin receptor (CLR), cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, and Toll-like receptor (TLR), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathways. Furthermore, 30 of 131 referenced DEGs, especially the nuclear transcription factor AP-1 and NF-κB, participate in the immune response to infection through an integral signal cascade and can be target molecules for prevention and control of enteric ETEC infection by probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri. Our data provide a comprehensive insight into the immune response of porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) to ETEC infection and advance the identification of targets for prevention and control of ETEC-related PWD.

Fostamatinib for the Treatment of Hospitalized Adults With Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) requiring hospitalization is characterized by robust antibody production, dysregulated immune response, and immunothrombosis. Fostamatinib is a novel spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor that we hypothesize will ameliorate Fc activation and attenuate harmful effects of the anti-COVID-19 immune response.

METHODS

We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in hospitalized adults requiring oxygen with COVID-19 where patients receiving standard of care were randomized to receive fostamatinib or placebo. The primary outcome was serious adverse events by day 29.

RESULTS

A total of 59 patients underwent randomization (30 to fostamatinib and 29 to placebo). Serious adverse events occurred in 10.5% of patients in the fostamatinib group compared with 22% in placebo (P = .2). Three deaths occurred by day 29, all receiving placebo. The mean change in ordinal score at day 15 was greater in the fostamatinib group (-3.6 ± 0.3 vs -2.6 ± 0.4, P = .035) and the median length in the intensive care unit was 3 days in the fostamatinib group vs 7 days in placebo (P = .07). Differences in clinical improvement were most evident in patients with severe or critical disease (median days on oxygen, 10 vs 28, P = .027). There were trends toward more rapid reductions in C-reactive protein, D-dimer, fibrinogen, and ferritin levels in the fostamatinib group.

CONCLUSION

For COVID-19 requiring hospitalization, the addition of fostamatinib to standard of care was safe and patients were observed to have improved clinical outcomes compared with placebo. These results warrant further validation in larger confirmatory trials.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04579393.

T- and B-cell therapy in solid organ transplantation: current evidence and future expectations

Cell therapy has emerged as an attractive therapeutic option in organ transplantation. During the last decade, the therapeutic potency of Treg immunotherapy has been shown in various preclinical animal models and safety was demonstrated in first clinical trials. However, there are still critical open questions regarding specificity, survival, and migration to the target tissue so the best Treg population for infusion into patients is still under debate. Recent advances in CAR technology hold the promise for Treg-functional superiority. Another exciting strategy is the generation of B-cell antibody receptor (BAR) Treg/cytotoxic T cells to specifically regulate or deplete alloreactive memory B cells. Finally, B cells are also capable of immune regulation, making them promising candidates for immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies. This article summarizes available literature on cell-based innovative therapeutic approaches aiming at modulating alloimmune response for transplantation. Crucial areas of investigation that need a joined effort of the transplant community for moving the field toward successful achievement of tolerance are highlighted.

Platelet P2Y 12 Receptor Deletion or Pharmacological Inhibition does not Protect Mice from Sepsis or Septic Shock

Introduction  Platelets are increasingly appreciated as key effectors during sepsis, raising the question of the usefulness of antiplatelet drugs to treat patients with sepsis.

Objective  Evaluate the potential contribution of the platelet P2Y ₁₂ receptor in the pathogenesis of polymicrobial-induced sepsis and septic shock in mice.

Methods  The effects of P2Y ₁₂ inhibition using clopidogrel treatment and of platelet-specific deletion of the P2Y ₁₂ receptor in mice were examined in two severity grades of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) leading to mild sepsis or septic shock.

Results  Twenty hours after induction of the high grade CLP, clopidogrel- and vehicle-treated mice displayed a similar 30% decrease in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) characteristic of shock. Septic shock-induced thrombocytopenia was not modified by clopidogrel treatment. Plasma concentrations of inflammatory cytokines and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were similarly increased in clopidogrel- and vehicle-treated mice, indicating comparable increase in systemic inflammation. Thrombin-antithrombin (TAT) complexes and the extent of organ damage were also similar. In mild-grade CLP, clopidogrel- and vehicle-treated mice did not display a significant decrease in MAP, while thrombocytopenia and plasma concentrations of TNFα, IL6, IL10, MPO, TAT and organ damage reached similar levels in both groups, although lower than those reached in the high grade CLP. Similarly, mice with platelet-specific deletion of the P2Y ₁₂ receptor were not protected from CLP-induced sepsis or septic shock.

Conclusion  The platelet P2Y ₁₂ receptor does not contribute to the pathogenesis of sepsis or septic shock in mice, suggesting that P2Y ₁₂ receptor antagonists may not be beneficial in patients with sepsis or septic shock.

CEBPD Potentiates the Macrophage Inflammatory Response but CEBPD Knock-Out Macrophages Fail to Identify CEBPD-Dependent Pro-Inflammatory Transcriptional Programs

CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein delta (C/EBPδ) is a member of the C/EBP family of transcription factors. According to the current paradigm, C/EBPδ potentiates cytokine production and modulates macrophage function thereby enhancing the inflammatory response. Remarkably, however, C/EBPδ deficiency does not consistently lead to a reduction in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokine production by macrophages. Here, we address this apparent discrepancy and show that the effect of C/EBPδ on cytokine production and macrophage function depends on both the macrophage subtype and the LPS concentration used. Using CRISPR-Cas generated macrophages in which the transactivation domain of C/EBPδ was deleted from the endogenous locus (ΔTAD macrophages), we next show that the context-dependent role of C/EBPδ in macrophage biology relies on compensatory transcriptional activity in the absence of C/EBPδ. We extend these findings by revealing a large discrepancy between transcriptional programs in C/EBPδ knock-out and C/EBPδ transactivation dead (ΔTAD) macrophages implying that compensatory mechanisms do not specifically modify C/EBPδ-dependent inflammatory responses but affect overall macrophage biology. Overall, these data imply that knock-out approaches are not suited for identifying the genuine transcriptional program regulated by C/EBPδ, and we suggest that this phenomenon applies for transcription factor families in general.

Targeted knockdown of Tim3 by short hairpin RNAs improves the function of anti-mesothelin CAR T cells

T-cell immunoglobulin mucin 3 (Tim3) is an immune checkpoint receptor that plays a central role in chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell exhaustion within the tumor microenvironment. This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of targeted-knockdown of Tim3 on the antitumor function of anti-mesothelin (MSLN)-CAR T cells. To knockdown Tim3 expression, three different shRNA sequences specific to different segments of the human Tim3 gene were designed and co-inserted with an anti-MSLN-CAR transgene into lentiviral vectors. To investigate the efficacy of Tim3 targeting in T cells, expression of Tim3 was assessed before and after antigen stimulation. Afterwards, cytotoxic effects, proliferative response and cytokine production of MSLN-CAR T cells and Tim3-targeted MSLN-CAR T cells were analyzed. Our results showed that activation of T cells and MSLN-CAR T cells led to up-regulation of Tim3. Tim3 knockdown significantly decreased its expression in different groups of MSLN-CAR T cells. Tim3 knockdown significantly improved cytotoxic function, cytokine production and proliferation capacity of MSLN-CAR T cells. Our findings indicate that targeted knockdown of Tim3 allows tumor-infiltrating CAR T cells that would otherwise be inactivated to continue to expand and carry out effector functions, thereby altering the tumor microenvironment from immunosuppressive to immunosupportive via mitigated Tim3 signaling.

Macrophage metabolic regulation in atherosclerotic plaque

Metabolism plays a key role in controlling immune cell functions. In this review, we will discuss the diversity of plaque resident myeloid cells and will focus on their metabolic demands that could reflect on their particular intraplaque localization. Defining the metabolic configuration of plaque resident myeloid cells according to their topologic distribution could provide answers to key questions regarding their functions and contribution to disease development.

PARPs in lipid metabolism and related diseases

PARPs and tankyrases (TNKS) represent a family of 17 proteins. PARPs and tankyrases were originally identified as DNA repair factors, nevertheless, recent advances have shed light on their role in lipid metabolism. To date, PARP1, PARP2, PARP3, tankyrases, PARP9, PARP10, PARP14 were reported to have multi-pronged connections to lipid metabolism. The activity of PARP enzymes is fine-tuned by a set of cholesterol-based compounds as oxidized cholesterol derivatives, steroid hormones or bile acids. In turn, PARPs modulate several key processes of lipid homeostasis (lipotoxicity, fatty acid and steroid biosynthesis, lipoprotein homeostasis, fatty acid oxidation, etc.). PARPs are also cofactors of lipid-responsive nuclear receptors and transcription factors through which PARPs regulate lipid metabolism and lipid homeostasis. PARP activation often represents a disruptive signal to (lipid) metabolism, and PARP-dependent changes to lipid metabolism have pathophysiological role in the development of hyperlipidemia, obesity, alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, type II diabetes and its complications, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular aging and skin pathologies, just to name a few. In this synopsis we will review the evidence supporting the beneficial effects of pharmacological PARP inhibitors in these diseases/pathologies and propose repurposing PARP inhibitors already available for the treatment of various malignancies.

A Review of the Efficacy and Safety for Biologic Agents Targeting IL-23 in Treating Psoriasis With the Focus on Tildrakizumab

Psoriasis is a chronic and debilitating inflammatory immune-mediated skin disorder. Several cytokines including interleukin (IL)-23 were demonstrated to play a central role in the pathogenesis of this disease. Treatment options for psoriasis range from topical to systemic modalities, depending on the extent, anatomical locations involved and functional impairment level. Targeting cytokines or their cognate receptors that are involved in disease pathogenesis such as IL-12/23 (i.e., targeting the IL-12p40 subunit shared by these cytokines), IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-17RA, and TNF-α using biologic agents emerged in recent years as a highly effective therapeutic option for patients with moderate-to-severe disease. This review provides an overview of the important role of IL-23 signaling in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. We describe in detail the available IL-23 inhibitors for chronic plaque psoriasis. The efficacy, pharmacokinetic properties, and the safety profile of one of the most recent IL-23 biologic agents (tildrakizumab) are evaluated and reviewed in depth.

Wildlife Is a Potential Source of Human Infections of Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Giardia duodenalis in Southeastern China

Wildlife is known to be a source of high-impact pathogens affecting people. However, the distribution, genetic diversity, and zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Giardia duodenalis in wildlife are poorly understood. Here, we conducted the first molecular epidemiological investigation of these three pathogens in wildlife in Zhejiang and Shanghai, China. Genomic DNAs were derived from 182 individual fecal samples from wildlife and then subjected to a nested polymerase chain reaction–based sequencing approach for detection and characterization. Altogether, 3 (1.6%), 21 (11.5%), and 48 (26.4%) specimens tested positive for Cryptosporidium species, E. bieneusi, and G. duodenalis, respectively. Sequence analyses revealed five known (BEB6, D, MJ13, SC02, and type IV) and two novel (designated SH_ch1 and SH_deer1) genotypes of E. bieneusi. Phylogenetically, novel E. bieneusi genotype SH_deer1 fell into group 6, and the other genotypes were assigned to group 1 with zoonotic potential. Three novel Cryptosporidium genotypes (Cryptosporidium avian genotype V-like and C. galli-like 1 and 2) were identified, C. galli-like 1 and 2 formed a clade that was distinct from Cryptosporidium species. The genetic distinctiveness of these two novel genotypes suggests that they represent a new species of Cryptosporidium. Zoonotic assemblage A (n = 36) and host-adapted assemblages C (n = 1) and E (n = 7) of G. duodenalis were characterized. The overall results suggest that wildlife act as host reservoirs carrying zoonotic E. bieneusi and G. duodenalis, potentially enabling transmission from wildlife to humans and other animals.

Highly expressed of SERPINA3 indicated poor prognosis and involved in immune suppression in glioma

Introduction

The prognosis of patients with glioma is dismal. It has been reported that Serpin peptidase inhibitor clade A member 3 (SERPINA3) is associated with the mobility and invasion of tumor cells. Our study was designed to explore the value of SERPINA3 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in the biological process, prognosis, and immune significance in glioma.

Methods

We analyzed the biological functions of SERPINA3 through data from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas databases. Differentially expressed genes and enrichment analysis were performed and correlations between SERPINA3 expression and immune cell infiltration were analyzed. Further, we validated the expression and the survival prediction role of SERPINA3 by using tissue microarrays and RNAscope in situ hybridization in 321 gliomas. The correlations between the expression and clinical‐pathological parameters as well as other biomarkers were examined.

Results

Univariate and multivariate regression both indicated that the level of SERPINA3 transcript represented an independent prognostic factor. High levels of SERPINA3 correlated with poor survival in patients with glioma. Expression of SERPINA3 mRNA was observed positively correlated with MCM6, IGFBP2, and FKBP10. Enrichment analysis showed SERPINA3 mainly enriched in immune‐related terms and signaling pathways including MAPK, TNF, P53, PI3K‐Akt, nuclear factor‐κB. Immune infiltration analysis further declare the SERPINA3 expression negatively correlated with levels of Macrophages M1, native CD4⁺ T cell, monocytes, and Mast cell activated. And overexpression of SERPINA3 correlated with low CD4⁺ T cell infiltration in glioma tissues.

Conclusions

SERPINA3 may play a key role in the biological process of glioma cells especially in immune suppression activities. SERPINA3 may serve as an independent survival prediction factor in glioma patients.

The latest information on the RIPK1 post-translational modifications and functions

RIPK1 is a protein kinase that simultaneously regulates inflammation, apoptosis, and necroptosis. It is thought that RIPK1 has separate functions through its scaffold structure and kinase domains. Moreover, different post-translational modifications in RIPK1 play distinct or even opposing roles. Under different conditions, in different cells and species, and/or upon exposure to different stimuli, infections, and substrates, RIPK1 activation can lead to diverse results. Despite continuous research, many of the conclusions that have been drawn regarding the complex interactions of RIPK1 are controversial. This review is based on an examination and analysis of recent studies on the RIPK1 structure, post-translational modifications, and activation conditions, which can affect its functions. Finally, because of the diverse functions of RIPK1 and their relevance to the pathogenesis of many diseases, we briefly introduce the roles of RIPK1 in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases and the prospects of its use in future diagnostics and treatments.

Cancer immunotherapy with PI3K and PD-1 dual-blockade via optimal modulation of T cell activation signal

Background

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) induces durable clinical responses in patients with various types of cancer. However, its limited clinical efficacy requires the development of better approaches. In addition to immune checkpoint molecules, tumor-infiltrating immunosuppressive cells including regulatory T cells (Tregs) play crucial roles in the immune suppressive tumor microenvironment. While phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibition as a Treg-targeted treatment has been implicated in animal models, its effects on human Tregs and on the potential impairment of effector T cells are required to be clarified for successful cancer immunotherapy.

Methods

The impact of a selective-PI3K inhibitor ZSTK474 with or without anti-programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibody on Tregs and CD8⁺ T cells were examined with in vivo animal models and in vitro experiments with antigen specific and non-specific fashions using peripheral blood from healthy individuals and cancer patients. Phenotypes and functions of Tregs and effector T cells were examined with comprehensive gene and protein expression assays.

Results

Improved antitumor effects by the PI3K inhibitor in combination with ICB, particularly PD-1 blockade, were observed in mice and humans. Although administration of the PI3K inhibitor at higher doses impaired activation of CD8⁺ T cells as well as Tregs, the optimization (doses and timing) of this combination treatment selectively decreased intratumoral Tregs, resulting in increased tumor antigen-specific CD8⁺ T cells in the treated mice. Moreover, on the administration of the PI3K inhibitor with the optimal dose for selectively deleting Tregs, PI3K signaling was inhibited not only in Tregs but also in activated CD8⁺ T cells, leading to the enhanced generation of tumor antigen-specific memory CD8⁺ T cells which contributed to durable antitumor immunity. These opposing outcomes between Tregs and CD8⁺ T cells were attributed to the high degree of dependence on T cell signaling in the former but not in the latter.

Conclusions

PI3K inhibitor in the combination with ICB with the optimized protocol fine-tuned T cell activation signaling for antitumor immunity via decreasing Tregs and optimizing memory CD8⁺ T cell responses, illustrating a promising combination therapy.

Transient Depletion of Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cells Selectively Promotes Aggressive β Cell Autoimmunity in Genetically Susceptible DEREG Mice

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) represents a hallmark of the fatal multiorgan autoimmune syndrome affecting humans with abrogated Foxp3⁺ regulatory T (Treg) cell function due to Foxp3 gene mutations, but whether the loss of Foxp3⁺ Treg cell activity is indeed sufficient to promote β cell autoimmunity requires further scrutiny. As opposed to human Treg cell deficiency, β cell autoimmunity has not been observed in non-autoimmune-prone mice with constitutive Foxp3 deficiency or after diphtheria toxin receptor (DTR)-mediated ablation of Foxp3⁺ Treg cells. In the spontaneous nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse model of T1D, constitutive Foxp3 deficiency did not result in invasive insulitis and hyperglycemia, and previous studies on Foxp3⁺ Treg cell ablation focused on Foxp3^DTR NOD mice, in which expression of a transgenic BDC2.5 T cell receptor (TCR) restricted the CD4⁺ TCR repertoire to a single diabetogenic specificity. Here we revisited the effect of acute Foxp3⁺ Treg cell ablation on β cell autoimmunity in NOD mice in the context of a polyclonal TCR repertoire. For this, we took advantage of the well-established DTR/GFP transgene of DEREG mice, which allows for specific ablation of Foxp3⁺ Treg cells without promoting catastrophic autoimmune diseases. We show that the transient loss of Foxp3⁺ Treg cells in prediabetic NOD.DEREG mice is sufficient to precipitate severe insulitis and persistent hyperglycemia within 5 days after DT administration. Importantly, DT-treated NOD.DEREG mice preserved many clinical features of spontaneous diabetes progression in the NOD model, including a prominent role of diabetogenic CD8⁺ T cells in terminal β cell destruction. Despite the severity of destructive β cell autoimmunity, anti-CD3 mAb therapy of DT-treated mice interfered with the progression to overt diabetes, indicating that the novel NOD.DEREG model can be exploited for preclinical studies on T1D under experimental conditions of synchronized, advanced β cell autoimmunity. Overall, our studies highlight the continuous requirement of Foxp3⁺ Treg cell activity for the control of genetically pre-installed autoimmune diabetes.

Musculoskeletal Disorders in Chronic Obstructive Airway Diseases: A Neglected Clinical Entity

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease that can affect various extra-pulmonary organs; one being the musculoskeletal system. Skeletal muscle dysfunction and osteoporosis are two important musculoskeletal disorders that have an impact on the quality of life in COPD patients in terms of morbidity and mortality. Treatment related adverse effects of COPD such as steroid-induced myopathy and osteoporosis are well recognised. Other comorbidities like sarcopenia, cardiovascular disease, metabolic diseases (diabetes mellitus, obesity, and thyroid diseases), chronic kidney disease, sleep apnoea, anaemia, and depression are also noted, which can contribute to impaired health status, increased healthcare utilisation, and even mortality. As well, it has been shown that autoimmunity and autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) are linked to COPD. In this mini-review, we intend to give an overview of different types of musculoskeletal disorders associated with COPD.

Simultaneous Immunization with Multiple Diverse Immunogens Alters Development of Antigen-Specific Antibody-Mediated Immunity

Vaccination remains one of the most successful medical interventions in history, significantly decreasing morbidity and mortality associated with, or even eradicating, numerous infectious diseases. Although traditional immunization strategies have recently proven insufficient in the face of many highly mutable and emerging pathogens, modern strategies aim to rationally engineer a single antigen or cocktail of antigens to generate a focused, protective immune response. However, the effect of cocktail vaccination (simultaneous immunization with multiple immunogens) on the antibody response to each individual antigen within the combination, remains largely unstudied. To investigate whether immunization with a cocktail of diverse antigens would result in decreased antibody titer against each unique antigen in the cocktail compared to immunization with each antigen alone, we immunized mice with surface proteins from uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Neisseria meningitides, and monitored the development of antigen-specific IgG antibody responses. We found that antigen-specific endpoint antibody titers were comparable across immunization groups by study conclusion (day 70). Further, we discovered that although cocktail-immunized mice initially elicited more robust antibody responses, the rate of titer development decreases significantly over time compared to single antigen-immunized mice. Investigating the basic properties that govern the development of antigen-specific antibody responses will help inform the design of future combination immunization regimens.

Activated Mucosal-associated Invariant T Cells Have a Pathogenic Role in a Murine Model of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are innate-like T cells restricted by major histocompatibility complex-related molecule 1 (MR1) and express a semi-invariant T cell receptor. Previously, we reported the activation status of circulating MAIT cells in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) was associated with disease activity and that these cells had infiltrated the inflamed colonic mucosa. These findings suggest MAIT cells are involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease. We investigated the role of MAIT cells in the pathogenesis of colitis by using MR1^-/- mice lacking MAIT cells and a synthetic antagonistic MR1 ligand.

METHODS

Oxazolone colitis was induced in MR1^-/- mice (C57BL/6 background), their littermate wild-type controls, and C57BL/6 mice orally administered an antagonistic MR1 ligand, isobutyl 6-formyl pterin (i6-FP). Cytokine production of splenocytes and colonic lamina propria lymphocytes from mice receiving i6-FP was analyzed. Intestinal permeability was assessed in MR1^-/- and i6-FP-treated mice and their controls. The effect of i6-FP on cytokine production by MAIT cells from patients with UC was assessed.

RESULTS

MR1 deficiency or i6-FP treatment reduced the severity of oxazolone colitis. i6-FP treatment reduced cytokine production in MAIT cells from mice and patients with UC. Although MR1 deficiency increased the intestinal permeability, i6-FP administration did not affect gut integrity in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate MAIT cells have a pathogenic role in colitis and suppression of MAIT cell activation might reduce the severity of colitis without affecting gut integrity. Thus, MAIT cells are potential therapeutic targets for inflammatory bowel disease including UC.

Utility of TPP-manufactured biophysical restrictions to probe multiscale cellular dynamics

Biophysical restrictions regulate protein diffusion, nucleus deformation, and cell migration, which are all universal and important processes for cells to perform their biological functions. However, current technologies addressing these multiscale questions are extremely limited. Herein, through two-photon polymerization (TPP), we present the precise, low-cost, and multiscale microstructures (micro-fences) as a versatile investigating platform. With nanometer-scale printing resolution and multiscale scanning capacity, TPP is capable of generating micro-fences with sizes of 0.5–1000 μm. These micro-fences are utilized as biophysical restrictions to determine the fluidity of supported lipid bilayers (SLB), to investigate the restricted diffusion of Src family kinase protein Lck on SLB, and also to reveal the mechanical bending of cell nucleus and T cell climbing ability. Taken together, the proposed versatile and low-cost micro-fences have great potential in probing the restricted dynamics of molecules, organelles, and cells to understand the basics of physical biology.

Graphic abstract

Oral Fc-Coupled Preproinsulin Achieves Systemic and Thymic Delivery Through the Neonatal Fc Receptor and Partially Delays Autoimmune Diabetes

Tolerogenic vaccinations using beta-cell antigens are attractive for type 1 diabetes prevention, but clinical trials have been disappointing. This is probably due to the late timing of intervention, when multiple auto-antibodies are already present. We therefore devised a strategy to introduce the initiating antigen preproinsulin (PPI) during neonatal life, when autoimmunity is still silent and central tolerance mechanisms, which remain therapeutically unexploited, are more active. This strategy employs an oral administration of PPI-Fc, i.e. PPI fused with an IgG Fc to bind the intestinal neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) that physiologically delivers maternal antibodies to the offspring during breastfeeding. Neonatal oral PPI-Fc vaccination did not prevent diabetes development in PPI T-cell receptor-transgenic G9C8.NOD mice. However, PPI-Fc was efficiently transferred through the intestinal epithelium in an Fc- and FcRn-dependent manner, was taken up by antigen presenting cells, and reached the spleen and thymus. Although not statistically significant, neonatal oral PPI-Fc vaccination delayed diabetes onset in polyclonal Ins2^-/-.NOD mice that spontaneously develop accelerated diabetes. Thus, this strategy shows promise in terms of systemic and thymic antigen delivery via the intestinal FcRn pathway, but the current PPI-Fc formulation/regimen requires further improvements to achieve diabetes prevention.

Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Patients: a Japanese Retrospective Study

Purpose

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a curative therapy for patients with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Here, we conducted a nationwide study to assess the outcome of SCID patients after HCT in Japan.

Methods

A cohort of 181 SCID patients undergoing their first allogeneic HCT in 1974–2016 was studied by using the Japanese national database (Transplant Registry Unified Management Program, TRUMP).

Results

The 10-year overall survival (OS) of the patients who received HCT in 2006–2016 was 67%. Umbilical cord blood (UCB) transplantation was performed in 81 patients (45%). The outcomes of HCT from HLA-matched UCB (n = 21) and matched sibling donors (n = 22) were comparable, including 10-year OS (91% vs. 91%), neutrophil recovery (cumulative incidence at 30 days, 89% vs. 100%), and platelet recovery (cumulative incidence at 60 days, 89% vs. 100%). Multivariate analysis of the patients who received HCT in 2006–2016 demonstrated that the following factors were associated with poor OS: bacterial or fungal infection at HCT (hazard ratio (HR): 3.8, P = 0.006), cytomegalovirus infection prior to HCT (HR: 9.4, P = 0.03), ≥ 4 months of age at HCT (HR: 25.5, P = 0.009), and mismatched UCB (HR: 19.8, P = 0.01).

Conclusion

We showed the potential of HLA-matched UCB as a donor source with higher priority for SCID patients. We also demonstrated that early age at HCT without active infection is critical for a better prognosis, highlighting the importance of newborn screening for SCID.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10875-021-01112-5.

Biologic Therapies and Autoimmune Phenomena

The use of biologic medications has represented a great advancement in the treatment of autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Despite their excellent efficacy, during the last years, a growing number of reports of autoimmune phenomena and paradoxical inflammation has emerged. These phenomena may range from the discovery of an isolated autoantibody to full-blown autoimmune diseases, organ-specific and systemic. This review has been carried out in order to underline the multitude of the potential adverse manifestations from the use of biologic medications. Thus, early recognition of specific types of autoimmune phenomena is an imperative for the physicians allowing them to have an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

B Cell-mediated Humoral Immunity in Chronic Hepatitis B Infection

B cell-mediated humoral immunity plays a vital role in viral infections, including chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, which remains a critical global public health issue. Despite hepatitis B surface antigen-specific antibodies are essential to eliminate viral infections, the reduced immune functional capacity of B cells was identified, which was also correlated with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) progression. In addition to B cells, T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, which assist B cells to produce antibodies, might also be involved in the process of anti-HBV-specific antibody production. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the role of various subsets of B cells and Tfh cells during CHB progression and discuss current novel treatment strategies aimed at restoring humoral immunity. Understanding the mechanism of dysregulated B cells and Tfh cells will facilitate the ultimate functional cure of CHB patients.