Dendritic cell maturation by innate lymphocytes: coordinated stimulation of innate and adaptive immunity

Natural Killer T Cells in Cancer Immunotherapy

Natural killer T (NKT) cells are specialized CD1d-restricted T cells that recognize lipid antigens. Following stimulation, NKT cells lead to downstream activation of both innate and adaptive immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. This has impelled the development of NKT cell-targeted immunotherapies for treating cancer. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the stimulatory and regulatory functions of NKT cells in tumor immunity as well as highlight preclinical and clinical studies based on NKT cells. Finally, we discuss future perspectives to better harness the potential of NKT cells for cancer therapy.

Activation of Human Mucosal-Associated Invariant T Cells Induces CD40L-Dependent Maturation of Monocyte-Derived and Primary Dendritic Cells

Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are innate T cells that recognize intermediates of the vitamin B2 biosynthetic pathway presented by the monomorphic MR1 molecule. It remains unclear whether, in addition to their cytolytic activity that is important in antimicrobial defense, MAIT cells have immune-modulatory functions that could enhance dendritic cell (DC) maturation. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms dictating the interactions between human MAIT cells and DCs and demonstrate that human MAIT cells mature monocyte-derived and primary DCs in an MR1- and CD40L-dependent manner. Furthermore, we show that MAIT cell–derived signals synergize with microbial stimuli to induce secretion of bioactive IL-12 by DCs. Activation of human MAIT cells in whole blood leads to MR1- and cytokine-dependent NK cell transactivation. Our results underscore an important property of MAIT cells, which can be of translational relevance to rapidly orchestrate adaptive immunity through DC maturation.

Clinical and Physiological Perspectives of β-Glucans: The Past, Present, and Future

β-Glucans are a group of biologically-active fibers or polysaccharides from natural sources with proven medical significance. β-Glucans are known to have antitumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-allergic, anti-osteoporotic, and immunomodulating activities. β-Glucans are natural bioactive compounds and can be taken orally, as a food supplement, or as part of a daily diet, and are considered safe to use. The medical significance and efficiency of β-glucans are confirmed in vitro, as well as using animal- and human-based clinical studies. However, systematic study on the clinical and physiological significance of β-glucans is scarce. In this review, we not only discuss the clinical and physiological importance of β-glucans, we also compare their biological activities through the existing in vitro and animal-based in vivo studies. This review provides extensive data on the clinical study of β-glucans.

Exploiting Antitumor Immunotherapeutic Novel Strategies by Deciphering the Cross Talk between Invariant NKT Cells and Dendritic Cells

Immune checkpoint blockade therapy has prevailed for several types of cancer; however, its effectiveness as a single therapy is still limited. In principle, dendritic cells (DCs) should be able to control the post-therapy immune response, in particular since they can link the two major arms of the immune system: innate and adaptive immunity. Therefore, DCs would be a logical and ideal target for the development of immunotherapies. Since DCs are not activated in the steady state, an adjuvant to convert their function from tolerogenic to immunogenic would be desirable. Upon ligand activation, invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells simultaneously activate NK cells and also energize the DCs, resulting in their full maturation. To utilize such iNKT-licensed "fully" matured DCs as adjuvants, mechanisms of both intercellular communication between DC subsets and iNKT cells and intracellular molecular signaling in DCs have to be clarified and optimized. To generate both innate and adaptive immunity against cancer, a variety of strategies with the potential to target iNKT-licensed DCs in situ have been studied. The benchmark of success in these studies, each with distinct approaches, will be the development of functional NK cells and cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) as well as generation of long-term, memory CTL. In this review, we provide a framework for NKT-mediated immunotherapy through selective DC targeting in situ, describe progress in the design of licensed therapies for iNKT cell targeting of DCs, and highlight the challenge to provide maximal benefit to patients.

Murine liver-resident group 1 innate lymphoid cells regulate optimal priming of anti-viral CD8+ T cells

The liver contains 2 transcriptionally distinct group 1 ILC subsets: CD49a+ ILC1s and CD49b+ NK cells. However, little is known about how group 1 ILCs contribute to hepatic immune responses. Therefore, we characterized murine liver-resident group 1 ILCs and found that CD49a+ ILC1s express high levels of the inhibitory receptor NKG2A and localize near DCs in perivascular spaces surrounding the portal triads. Upon hepatic viral infection, NKG2A signaling in group 1 ILCs, especially in CD49a+ ILC1s, inhibits CXCL9 expression required for robust accumulation of IFN-γ+CD49b+ NK cells. As a consequence, NKG2A-/- mice showed increased numbers of IFN-γ-producing NK cells that preferentially activate liver CD103+ DCs, leading to the sustained proliferation of adoptively transferred, virus-specific CD8+ T cells. Collectively, these data suggest that group 1 ILCs play a role in maintaining the liver as a tolerogenic site by limiting the recruitment of peripheral NK cells during the early phase of viral infection. Furthermore, our findings implicate that the inhibition of NKG2A signaling on group 1 ILCs may be a novel vaccine strategy to induce robust CD8+ T cell responses against persistent liver pathogens.

Intratumoral Th2 predisposition combines with an increased Th1 functional phenotype in clinical response to intravesical BCG in bladder cancer

Th1-type immunity is considered to be required for efficient response to BCG in bladder cancer, although Th2 predisposition of BCG responders has recently been reported. The aim was to evaluate the relationship of Th1 and Th2 components in 23 patients undergoing BCG treatment. Peripheral blood, serum and urine samples were prospectively collected at baseline, during and after BCG. Th1 (neopterin, tryptophan, kynurenine, kynurenine-to-tryptophan ratio (KTR), IL-12, IFN-γ, soluble TNF-R75 and IL-2Rα) and Th2 (IL-4, IL-10) biomarkers as well as CD4 expression in T helper (Th), effector and regulatory T cells were determined. Local immune cell subsets were measured on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded cancer tissue by immunohistochemistry to examine expression of transcription factors that control Th1 (T-bet) and Th2-type (GATA3) immunity. We confirmed a Th2 predisposition with a mean GATA3/T-bet ratio of 5.51. BCG responders showed significantly higher levels of urinary (p = 0.003) and serum neopterin (p = 0.012), kynurenine (p = 0.015), KTR (p = 0.005), IFN-γ (p = 0.005) and IL-12 (p = 0.003) during therapy, whereas levels of IL-10 decreased significantly (p < 0.001) compared to non-responders. GATA3/T-bet ratio correlated positively with serum neopterin (p = 0.008), IFN-γ (p = 0.013) and KTR (p = 0.018) after the first BCG instillation. We observed a significant increase in CD4 expression in the Th cell population (p < 0.05), with only a modest tendency toward higher frequency in responders compared to non-responders (p = 0.303). The combined assessment of GATA3/T-bet ratio, neopterin and KTR may be a useful biomarker in predicting BCG response. Th2-promoting factors such as GATA3 may trigger Th1-type immune responses and thus contribute to the BCG success.

Prevention of allograft rejection in heart transplantation through concurrent gene silencing of TLR and Kinase signaling pathways

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) act as initiators and conductors responsible for both innate and adaptive immune responses in organ transplantation. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is one of the most critical signaling kinases that affects broad aspects of cellular functions including metabolism, growth, and survival. Recipients (BALB/c) were treated with MyD88, TRIF and mTOR siRNA vectors, 3 and 7 days prior to heart transplantation and 7, 14 and 21 days after transplantation. After siRNA treatment, recipients received a fully MHC-mismatched C57BL/6 heart. Treatment with mTOR siRNA significantly prolonged allograft survival in heart transplantation. Moreover, the combination of mTOR siRNA with MyD88 and TRIF siRNA further extended the allograft survival; Flow cytometric analysis showed an upregulation of FoxP3 expression in spleen lymphocytes and a concurrent downregulation of CD40, CD86 expression, upregulation of PD-L1 expression in splenic dendritic cells in MyD88, TRIF and mTOR treated mice. There is significantly upregulated T cell exhaustion in T cells isolated from tolerant recipients. This study is the first demonstration of preventing immune rejection of allogeneic heart grafts through concurrent gene silencing of TLR and kinase signaling pathways, highlighting the therapeutic potential of siRNA in clinical transplantation.

The differential impact of natural killer (NK) cell education via KIR2DL3 and KIR3DL1 on CCL4 secretion in the context of in-vitro HIV infection

Carriage of certain inhibitory natural killer (NK) cell receptor (iNKR)/HLA ligand pairs is associated with protection from infection and slow time to AIDS implicating NK cells in HIV control. NK cells acquire functional potential through education, which requires the engagement of iNKRs by their human leucocyte antigen (HLA) ligands. HIV infection down-regulates cell surface HLA-A/B, but not HLA-C/E. We investigated how NK cell populations expressing combinations of the iNKRs NKG2A, KIR2DL3 (2DL3) and KIR3DL1 (3DL1) responded to autologous HIV infected CD4 (iCD4) cells. Purified NK cells from HIV-uninfected individuals were stimulated with autologous HIV iCD4 or uninfected CD4 T cells. Using flow cytometry we gated on each of the 8 NKG2A^+/- 2DL3^+/- 3DL1^+/- populations and analysed all possible combinations of interferon (IFN)-γ, CCL4 and CD107a functional subsets responding to iCD4 cells. Infected CD4 cells induced differential frequencies of NKG2A^+/- 2DL3^+/- 3DL1^+/- populations with total IFN-γ⁺ , CCL4⁺ and CD107a⁺ functional profiles. 2DL3⁺ NKG2A⁺ NK cells had a higher frequency of responses to iCD4 than other populations studied. A higher frequency of 2DL3⁺ NK cells responded to iCD4 from individuals that were not HLA-C1 homozygotes. These results show that 2DL3⁺ NK cells are mediators of HIV-specific responses. Furthermore, responses of NK cell populations to iCD4 are influenced not only by NK cell education through specific KIR/HLA pairs, but also by differential HIV-mediated changes in HLA expression.

Invited review: NOD2 and defensins: translating innate to adaptive immunity in Crohn's disease

The nucleotide-binding oligomerisation protein 2 (NOD2) is a sensor for bacterial muramyl dipeptide, which ensures ileal expression of antimicrobial peptides (so-called α-defensins) and promotes cytokine and chemokine production by immunocytes and enterocytes. Defective NOD2 signaling pathway and impaired expression of defensins were inextricably linked to the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease, a common form of inflammatory bowel disease. NOD2 and defensin deficiency at the level of the epithelial barrier and gut-associated lymphoid tissue may favour Crohn's disease by failing to protect from enteropathogens and to instruct adaptive immune response in the gut micro-environment. Herein, we provide an overview on the key role of NOD2 and defensins in antigen-presenting function of dendritic cells and antigen-specific immunity. We also outline the urgent need for a better understanding of the regulators of NOD2 function and defensin biogenesis to support the development of a rational immunostimulatory treatment for restoring long-lasting immunity in Crohn's disease.

IL-1β limits the extent of human 6-sulfo LacNAc dendritic cell (slanDC)-mediated NK cell activation and regulates CD95-induced apoptosis

To function optimally, human blood natural killer (NK) cells need to communicate with other immune cells. Previously, it has been shown that NK cells communicate with 6-sulfo LacNAc dendritic cells (slanDCs), which are able to stimulate NK cells in vitro. In this study, we investigated how slanDCs regulate the level of NK cell activation. The secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β by slanDCs during coculture with NK cells increased as a result of signaling via intercellular adhesion molecule-1 on slanDCs following its interaction with lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 on NK cells. IL-1β induced the expression of Fas receptor (CD95) on NK cells. The binding of Fas ligand (CD178) to CD95 induced the apoptosis of activated NK cells. Moreover, IL-1β also induced increased cyclooxygenase-2 expression in slanDCs, which in turn enabled the cells to secrete prostaglandin (PG)-E2. Consequently, PGE2 acted as a suppressing agent, tuning down the activation level of NK cells. In summary, IL-1β limits the level of NK cell activation by inducing apoptosis and suppression as a homeostatic regulatory function.

Dendritic Cells

T cells are an essential element that regulates the balance in immunity, by killing infected cells, helping antibody formation and suppressing autoimmune responses. However, T cells are incapable of recognizing native antigens. Instead, they recognize processed peptides presented by MHC molecules. Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen presenting cells that inform the fight against invasive pathogens while enforcing tolerance to self and harmless environmental antigens. They capture pathogens and receive signals from pathogens that influence the outcome of immune responses. On the basis of these signals, DCs orchestrate antigen specific T cell differentiation. Alternatively they can silence self-reactive T cells by inducing deletion, anergy or regulation (Treg). This article will discuss the discovery, function and development of DCs and the mechanisms by which they link innate immunity to adaptive immunity.

Natural killer cells in host defense against veterinary pathogens

Natural Killer (NK) cells constitute a major subset of innate lymphoid cells that do not express the T- and B-cell receptors and play an important role in antimicrobial defense. NK cells not only induce early and rapid innate immune responses, but also communicate with dendritic cells to shape the adaptive immunity, thus bridging innate and adaptive immunity. Although the functional biology of NK cells is well-documented in a variety of infections in humans and mice, their role in protecting domestic animals from infectious agents is only beginning to be understood. In this article, we summarize the current state of knowledge about the contribution of NK cells in pathogen defense in domestic animals, especially cattle and pigs. Understanding the immunobiology of NK cells will translate into strategies to manipulate these cells for preventive and therapeutic purposes.

A Higher Frequency of NKG2A+ than of NKG2A- NK Cells Responds to Autologous HIV-Infected CD4 Cells irrespective of Whether or Not They Coexpress KIR3DL1

Epidemiological and functional studies implicate NK cells in HIV control. However, there is little information available on which NK cell populations, as defined by the inhibitory NK cell receptors (iNKRs) they express, respond to autologous HIV-infected CD4(+) (iCD4) T cells. NK cells acquire antiviral functions through education, which requires signals received from iNKRs, such as NKG2A and KIR3DL1 (here, 3DL1), engaging their ligands. NKG2A interacts with HLA-E, and 3DL1 interacts with HLA-A/B antigens expressing the Bw4 epitope. HIV-infected cells downregulate HLA-A/B, which should interrupt negative signaling through 3DL1, leading to NK cell activation, provided there is sufficient engagement of activating NKRs. We examined the functionality of NK cells expressing or not NKG2A and 3DL1 stimulated by HLA-null and autologous iCD4 cells. Flow cytometry was used to gate on each NKG2A(+)/NKG2A(-) 3DL1(+)/3DL1(-) (NKG2A(+/-) 3DL1(+/-)) population and to measure the frequency of all possible combinations of CD107a expression and gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and CCL4 secretion. The highest frequency of functional NK cells responding to HLA-null cell stimulation was the NKG2A(+) 3DL1(+) NK cell population. The highest frequencies of functional NK cells responding to autologous iCD4 cells were those expressing NKG2A; coexpression of 3DL1 did not further modulate responsiveness. This was the case for the functional subsets characterized by the sum of all functions tested (total responsiveness), as well as by the trifunctional CD107a(+) IFN-γ(+) CCL4(+), CD107a(+) IFN-γ(+), total CD107a(+), and total IFN-γ(+) functional subsets. These results indicate that the NKG2A receptor has a role in NK cell-mediated anti-HIV responses.

IMPORTANCE

HIV-infected CD4 (iCD4) cells activate NK cells, which then control HIV replication. However, little is known regarding which NK cell populations iCD4 cells stimulate to develop antiviral activity. Here, we examine the frequency of NK cell populations, defined by the presence/absence of the NK cell receptors (NKRs) NKG2A and 3DL1, that respond to iCD4 cells. NKG2A and 3DL1 are involved in priming NK cells for antiviral functions upon encountering virus-infected cells. A higher frequency of NKG2A(+) than NKG2A(-) NK cells responded to iCD4 cells by developing antiviral functions such as CD107a expression, which correlates with NK cell killing, and secretion of gamma interferon and CCL4. Coexpression of 3DL1 on the NKG2A(+) and NKG2A(-) NK cells did not modulate responses to iCD4 cells. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the interaction of NK cells with iCD4 cells that lead to HIV control may contribute to developing strategies that harness NK cells for preventing or controlling HIV infection.

Regulation of NKT Cell Localization in Homeostasis and Infection

Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a specialized subset of T lymphocytes that regulate immune responses in the context of autoimmunity, cancer, and microbial infection. Lipid antigens derived from bacteria, parasites, and fungi can be presented by CD1d molecules and recognized by the canonical T cell receptors on NKT cells. Alternatively, NKT cells can be activated through recognition of self-lipids and/or pro-inflammatory cytokines generated during infection. Unlike conventional T cells, only a small subset of NKT cells traffic through the lymph nodes under homeostatic conditions, with the largest NKT cell populations localizing to the liver, lungs, spleen, and bone marrow. This is thought to be mediated by differences in chemokine receptor expression profiles. However, the impact of infection on the tissue localization and function of NKT remains largely unstudied. This review focuses on the mechanisms mediating the establishment of peripheral NKT cell populations during homeostasis and how tissue localization of NKT cells is affected during infection.

Dynamics of NKT-Cell Responses to Chlamydial Infection

Natural killer T (NKT) cells have gained great attention owing to their critical functional roles in immunity to various pathogens. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the role of NKT cells in host defense against and pathogenesis due to Chlamydia, which is an intracellular bacterial pathogen that poses a threat to the public health worldwide. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that NKT cells, particularly invariant NKT (iNKT) cells, play a crucial role in host defense against chlamydial infections, especially in C. pneumoniae infection. iNKT cells can promote type-1 protective responses to C. pneumoniae by inducing enhanced production of IL-12 by dendritic cells (DCs), in particular CD8α+ DCs, which promote the differentiation of naive T cells into protective IFN-γ-producing Th1/Tc1 type CD4+/CD8+ T cells. This iNKT-cell-mediated modulation of DC function is largely dependent upon CD40–CD40L interaction, IFN-γ production, and cell-to-cell contact. In addition, iNKT cells modulate the function of natural killer cells. NKT cells may be also involved in the pathogenesis of some chlamydial diseases by inducing different patterns of cytokine production. A better understanding of NKT-cell biology will enable us to rationally design prophylactic and therapeutic tools to combat infectious diseases.

Epigenetic regulations of inflammatory cyclooxygenase-derived prostanoids: molecular basis and pathophysiological consequences

The potential relevance of prostanoid signaling in immunity and immunological disorders, or disease susceptibility and individual variations in drug responses, is an important area for investigation. The deregulation of Cyclooxygenase- (COX-) derived prostanoids has been reported in several immunoinflammatory disorders such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. In addition to the environmental factors and the genetic background to diseases, epigenetic mechanisms involved in the fine regulation of prostanoid biosynthesis and/or receptor signaling appeared to be an additional level of complexity in the understanding of prostanoid biology and crucial in controlling the different components of the COX pathways. Epigenetic alterations targeting inflammatory components of prostanoid biosynthesis and signaling pathways may be important in the process of neoplasia, depending on the tissue microenvironment and target genes. Here, we focused on the epigenetic modifications of inflammatory prostanoids in physiological immune response and immunological disorders. We described how major prostanoids and their receptors can be functionally regulated epigenetically and consequently the impact of these processes in the pathogenesis inflammatory diseases and the development of therapeutic approaches that may have important clinical applications.

Functional analysis of NK cell subsets activated by 721.221 and K562 HLA-null cells

HLA-null cell lines [721.221 (henceforth, 721) and K562] are often used to study NK cell activation. NK cells are innate immune lymphocytes that express a variety of stochastically expressed inhibitory and activating receptors. Although it is known that 721 and K562 have divergent origins, they have been used interchangeably to stimulate NK cells in many studies. We hypothesized that the differences between 721 and K562 cells may result in differential NK cell-activation patterns. In this report, we assessed all possible combinations of CD107a expression and IFN-γ and CCL4 secretion in total NK and 3DL1(+/-) NK cell populations induced by these 2 cell lines. 721 activates a significantly higher frequency of NK cells and 3DL1(+) NK cells than K562. The NK cell functional subsets that are stimulated to a higher degree by 721 than K562 include those secreting IFN-γ and/or CCL4. On the other hand, the functional subsets that include CD107 expression contribute to a higher proportion of the total NK cell response following stimulation with K562 than 721. These results have implications for the selection of HLA-null cell lines to use as NK cell stimuli in investigations of their role in infectious diseases, cancer, and transplantation.

Human Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells: Innate adaptors of the immune system

Unconventional T cells are gaining center stage as important effector and regulatory cells that orchestrate innate and adaptive immune responses. Human Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells are amongst the best understood unconventional T cells, as they are easily accessible in peripheral blood, can readily be expanded and manipulated in vitro, respond to microbial infections in vivo and can be exploited for novel tumor immunotherapies. We here review findings that suggest that Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells, and possibly other unconventional human T cells, play an important role in bridging innate and adaptive immunity by promoting the activation and differentiation of various types of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and even turning into APCs themselves, and thereby pave the way for antigen-specific effector responses and long-term immunological memory. Although the direct physiological relevance for most of these mechanisms still needs to be demonstrated in vivo, these findings may have implications for novel therapies, diagnostic tests and vaccines.

Stress-related and homeostatic cytokines regulate Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell surveillance of mevalonate metabolism

The potentially oncogenic mevalonate pathway provides building blocks for protein prenylation and induces cell proliferation and as such is an important therapeutic target. Among mevalonate metabolites, only isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) has been considered to be an immunologically relevant antigen for primate-specific, innate-like Vγ9Vδ2 T cells with antitumor potential. We show here that Vγ9Vδ2 T cells pretreated with the stress-related, inflammasome-dependent cytokine interleukin 18 (IL-18) were potently activated not only by IPP but also by all downstream isoprenoid pyrophosphates that exhibit combined features of antigens and cell-extrinsic metabolic cues. Vγ9Vδ2 T cells induced this way effectively proliferated even under severe lymphopenic conditions and the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine significantly improved reconstitution of γδ T cells predominantly with a central memory phenotype. The homeostatic cytokine IL-15 induced the differentiation of effector cells in an antigen-independent fashion, which rapidly produced abundant interferon γ (IFNγ) upon antigen re-encounter. IL-15 induced effector γδ T cells displayed increased levels of the cytotoxic lymphocyte-associated proteins CD56, CD96, CD161 and perforin. In response to stimulation with isoprenoid pyrophosphates, these effector cells upregulated surface expression of CD107a and exhibited strong cytotoxicity against tumor cells in vitro. Our data clarify understanding of innate immunosurveillance mechanisms and will facilitate the controlled generation of robust Vγ9Vδ2 T cell subsets for effective cancer immunotherapy.

Immunity to cytomegalovirus in early life

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common congenital infection and is the leading non-genetic cause of neurological defects. CMV infection in early life is also associated with intense and prolonged viral excretion, indicating limited control of viral replication. This review summarizes our current understanding of the innate and adaptive immune responses to CMV infection during fetal life and infancy. It illustrates the fact that studies of congenital CMV infection have provided a proof of principle that the human fetus can develop anti-viral innate and adaptive immune responses, indicating that such responses should be inducible by vaccination in early life. The review also emphasizes the fact that our understanding of the mechanisms involved in symptomatic congenital CMV infection remains limited.

TNFR2 and IL-12 coactivation enables slanDCs to support NK-cell function via membrane-bound TNF-α

Human blood NK cells exert strong cytotoxicity against transformed cells and produce different cytokines and chemokines with an important role in modulating immune responses. However, the nature of NK-cell function depends on NK-cell interaction with other immune cells. One type of immune cells that communicate with NK cells are 6-sulfo LacNAc DCs (slanDCs), which comprise a major subpopulation of proinflammatory human blood DCs. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms by which slanDCs interact with NK cells. Our in vitro studies demonstrate that LPS-stimulated slanDCs enhance activation and function of NK cells essentially via membrane-bound TNF-α (mTNF-α). LPS stimulation upregulates expression of mTNF-α in slanDCs, and surface TNF receptor 2 (TNFR2) is upregulated on NK cells after coincubation with slanDCs. IL-12 secreted by slanDCs increases surface expression of TNFR2 in NK cells. TNFR2 signaling in NK cells leads to activation of NF-kB, a transcription factor for cytokines such as GM-CSF. GM-CSF provided by NK cells is responsible for enhancing IL-12 secretion in slanDCs. In conclusion, TNFR2 and IL-12 signaling, which support one another, enables slanDCs to enhance NK-cell function through mTNF-α, thereby regulating immune responses.

Increased IFN-α-producing plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) in human Th1-mediated type 1 diabetes: pDCs augment Th1 responses through IFN-α production

Increasing evidence suggests that type 1 IFN (IFN-αβ) is associated with pathogenesis of Th1-mediated type 1 diabetes (T1D). A major source of IFN-αβ is plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). In this study, we analyzed peripheral blood pDC numbers and functions in at-risk, new-onset, and established T1D patients and controls. We found that subjects at risk for T1D and new-onset and established T1D subjects possessed significantly increased pDCs but similar number of myeloid DCs when compared with controls. pDC numbers were not affected by age in T1D subjects but declined with increasing age in control subjects. It was demonstrated that IFN-α production by PBMCs stimulated with influenza viruses was significantly higher in T1D subjects than in controls, and IFN-α production was correlated with pDC numbers in PBMCs. Of interest, only T1D-associated Coxsackievirus serotype B4 but not B3 induced majority of T1D PBMCs to produce IFN-α, which was confirmed to be secreted by pDCs. Finally, in vitro studies demonstrated IFN-α produced by pDCs augmented Th1 responses, with significantly greater IFN-γ-producing CD4(+) T cells from T1D subjects. These findings indicate that increased pDCs and their IFN-αβ production may be associated with this Th1-mediated autoimmune disease, especially under certain viral infections linked to T1D pathogenesis.

Human B cells induce dendritic cell maturation and favour Th2 polarization by inducing OX-40 ligand

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a critical role in immune homeostasis by regulating the functions of various immune cells, including T and B cells. Notably, DCs also undergo education on reciprocal signalling by these immune cells and environmental factors. Various reports demonstrated that B cells have profound regulatory functions, although only few reports have explored the regulation of human DCs by B cells. Here we demonstrate that activated but not resting B cells induce maturation of DCs with distinct features to polarize Th2 cells that secrete interleukin (IL)-5, IL-4 and IL-13. B-cell-induced maturation of DCs is contact dependent and implicates signalling of B-cell activation molecules CD69, B-cell-activating factor receptor, and transmembrane activator and calcium-modulating cyclophilin ligand interactor. Mechanistically, differentiation of Th2 cells by B-cell-matured DCs is dependent on OX-40 ligand. Collectively, our results suggest that B cells have the ability to control their own effector functions by enhancing the ability of human DCs to mediate Th2 differentiation.

Invariant natural killer T cells: boon or bane in immunity to intracellular bacterial infections?

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells represent a specialized subset of innate lymphocytes that recognize lipid and glycolipid antigens presented to them by nonclassical MHC-I CD1d molecules and are able to rapidly secrete copious amounts of a variety of cytokines. iNKT cells possess the ability to modulate innate as well as adaptive immune responses against various pathogens. Intracellular bacteria are one of the most clinically significant human pathogens that effectively evade the immune system and cause a myriad of diseases of public health concern globally. Emerging evidence suggests that iNKT cells can confer immunity to intracellular bacteria but also inflict pathology in certain cases. We summarize the current knowledge on the contribution of iNKT cells in the host defense against intracellular bacterial infections, with a focus on the underlying mechanisms by which these cells induce protective or pathogenic reactions including the pathways of direct action (acting on infected cells) and indirect action (modulating dendritic, NK and T cells). The rational exploitation of iNKT cells for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes awaits a profound understanding of their functional biology.

Platelet-derived RANK ligand enhances CCL17 secretion from dendritic cells mediated by thymic stromal lymphopoietin

Dendritic cells (DCs) play an integral role in cellular cascade that initiate and maintain Th2 responses in allergy. In this study, we examined the interaction between platelets and DCs to determine the role of platelets in the intervention of immune responses through modulation of DC functions. Blood-purified myeloid DCs, which had been stimulated with thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP-DCs), formed aggregates with activated platelets. TSLP-DC maturation was induced after the interaction with TRAP6-activated platelets as indicated by an increase in the expression of CD86, CD40, and CD83. In addition, production of a Th2 cell-attracting chemokine, CCL17, was clearly upregulated by coculture of TSLP-DCs with TRAP6-activated platelets. We further found that an expression of RANK ligand (RANKL) on platelets was upregulated by the TRAP6 activation, and that, using the neutralizing antibody against RANKL, the platelet-derived RANKL induces the activation of TSLP-DCs. Thus, activated platelets can intervene in adaptive immune responses through induction of functional modulation of TSLP-DCs. Platelets have the ability to enhance the DC-mediated Th2 response and may contribute to the allergic inflammation. In conclusion, our study provides new insights in platelet functions and the possible mechanism of allergic responses that stem from DCs.

Cross-Talks between Natural Killer Cells and Distinct Subsets of Dendritic Cells

In recent years, the essential role of bi-directional cross-talk between natural killer (NK) and dendritic cells (DC) during immune responses has been clearly elucidated. In particular, this cross-talk results in the development of an efficient innate response, through DC-mediated NK cell activation, and a potent adaptive immune response, through NK-mediate DC editing and maturation. Recently, some novel human DC subsets have been identified: migratory DCs in afferent lymph and draining lymph nodes; CLEC9A⁺/BDCA3⁺ (CD141) DCs in interstitial dermis, liver, lung; inflammatory DCs in several inflammatory fluids. At the same time, it has been shown that also human NK cells are present in these compartments. Here, we will review the most recent findings on NK/DC cross-talk and we will discuss the necessity of acquiring more complete knowledge about these interactions in view of the new information available on both DC and NK cell subsets.

STAT3-silenced human dendritic cells have an enhanced ability to prime IFNγ production by both αβ and γδ T lymphocytes

Dendritic cells (DC) are an attractive target for therapeutic manipulation of the immune system to enhance insufficient immune responses, such those occurring in cancer, or to dampen dangerous responses in allergic and autoimmune diseases. Main goal of this study was to manipulate human monocyte-derived DC (MDDC) function by silencing STAT3, since this transcription factor plays a key role as a negative regulator of immune surveillance, and is strongly involved in inflammation. STAT3 silencing did not affect the immunophenotype of both immature and toll-like receptor (TLR) ligand-matured DC. However, an altered cytokine secretion profile, characterized by lower IL10 and higher IL12 and TNFα levels, was observed in silenced DC with respect to control cells upon TLR triggering. Accordingly, STAT3 silenced MDDC promoted a higher IFNγ production by CD4(+) naïve T cells. Furthermore, STAT3 silencing in MDDC favored the activation of γδ T lymphocytes, an immune cell population with important antitumor effector activities. This effect was at least in part mediated by the increased IL12 production by silenced cells. STAT3 silencing also increased the levels of CCL4, a CCR5-binding chemokine known to be involved in T helper 1 (Th1) cell recruitment. Altogether these results strengthen the role of STAT3 as a critical check point of the suppression of Th1 responses, unraveling its potential to dampen DC capability to both induce and recruit different IFNγ producing T lymphocyte subsets.

Distinct pathways of humoral and cellular immunity induced with the mucosal administration of a nanoemulsion adjuvant

Nasal administration of an oil-in-water nanoemulsion (NE) adjuvant W805EC produces potent systemic and mucosal, Th-1- and Th-17-balanced cellular responses. However, its molecular mechanism of action has not been fully characterized and is of particular interest because NE does not contain specific ligands for innate immune receptors. In these studies, we demonstrate that W805EC NE adjuvant activates innate immunity, induces specific gene transcription, and modulates NF-κB activity via TLR2 and TLR4 by a mechanism that appears to be distinct from typical TLR agonists. Nasal immunization with NE-based vaccine showed that the TLR2, TLR4, and MyD88 pathways and IL-12 and IL-12Rβ1 expression are not required for an Ab response, but they are essential for the induction of balanced Th-1 polarization and Th-17 cellular immunity. NE adjuvant induces MHC class II, CD80, and CD86 costimulatory molecule expression and dendritic cell maturation. Further, upon immunization with NE, adjuvant mice deficient in the CD86 receptor had normal Ab responses but significantly reduced Th-1 cellular responses, whereas animals deficient in both CD80 and CD86 or lacking CD40 failed to produce either humoral or cellular immunity. Overall, our data show that intranasal administration of Ag with NE induces TLR2 and TLR4 activation along with a MyD88-independent Ab response and a MyD88-dependent Th-1 and Th-17 cell-mediated immune response. These findings suggest that the unique properties of NE adjuvant may offer novel opportunities for understanding previously unrecognized mechanisms of immune activation important for generating effective mucosal and systemic immune responses.

NK cell autoreactivity and autoimmune diseases

Increasing evidences have pointed out the relevance of natural killer (NK) cells in organ-specific and systemic autoimmune diseases. NK cells bear a plethora of activating and inhibiting receptors that can play a role in regulating reactivity with autologous cells. The activating receptors recognize natural ligands up-regulated on virus-infected or stressed or neoplastic cells. Of note, several autoimmune diseases are thought to be linked to viral infections as one of the first event in inducing autoimmunity. Also, it is conceivable that autoimmunity can be triggered when a dysregulation of innate immunity occurs, activating T and B lymphocytes to react with self-components. This would imply that NK cells can play a regulatory role during adaptive immunity; indeed, innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), comprising the classical CD56⁺ NK cells, have a role in maintaining or alternating tissue homeostasis secreting protective and/or pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, NK cells display activating receptors involved in natural cytotoxicity and the activating isoforms of receptors for HLA class I that can interact with healthy host cells and induce damage without any evidence of viral infection or neoplastic-induced alteration. In this context, the interrelationship among ILC, extracellular-matrix components, and mesenchymal stromal cells can be considered a key point for the control of homeostasis. Herein, we summarize evidences for a role of NK cells in autoimmune diseases and will give a point of view of the interplay between NK cells and self-cells in triggering autoimmunity.

Mevalonate metabolism in cancer

Cancer cells are characterized by sustained proliferative signaling, insensitivity to growth suppressors and resistance to apoptosis as well as by replicative immortality, the capacity to induce angiogenesis and to perform invasive growth. Additional hallmarks of cancer cells include the reprogramming of energy metabolism as well as the ability to evade immune surveillance. The current review focuses on the metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells and on the immune system's capacity to detect such changes in cancer cell metabolism. Specifically, we focus on mevalonate metabolism, which is a target for drug and immune based cancer treatment.

Early IFN-gamma production after YF 17D vaccine virus immunization in mice and its association with adaptive immune responses

Yellow Fever vaccine is one of the most efficacious human vaccines ever made. The vaccine (YF 17D) virus induces polyvalent immune responses, with a mixed TH1/TH2 CD4(+) cell profile, which results in robust T CD8(+) responses and high titers of neutralizing antibody. In recent years, it has been suggested that early events after yellow fever vaccination are crucial to the development of adequate acquired immunity. We have previously shown that primary immunization of humans and monkeys with YF 17D virus vaccine resulted in the early synthesis of IFN-γ. Herein we have demonstrated, for the first time that early IFN-γ production after yellow fever vaccination is a feature also of murine infection and is much more pronounced in the C57BL/6 strain compared to the BALB/c strain. Likewise, in C57BL/6 strain, we have observed the highest CD8(+) T cells responses as well as higher titers of neutralizing antibodies and total anti-YF IgG. Regardless of this intense IFN-γ response in mice, it was not possible to see higher titers of IgG2a in relation to IgG1 in both mice lineages. However, IgG2a titers were positively correlated to neutralizing antibodies levels, pointing to an important role of IFN-γ in eliciting high quality responses against YF 17D, therefore influencing the immunogenicity of this vaccine.

Dendritic cell derived cytokines in human natural killer cell differentiation and activation

Dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NK) cells shape each other’s functions early during immune responses. DCs activate NK cells and NK cells can mature or kill DCs. In this review we will discuss which DC and NK cell subsets are mainly affected by this interaction, where these encounters might take place and which signals are exchanged. Finally, we will point out what the clinical benefit of understanding this interaction might be and how it changed our view on NK cells as innate lymphocytes.

Novel perspectives on dendritic cell-based immunotherapy of cancer

Advances in immunobiology knowledge as well as in cell culture processes that generate large numbers of purified and functionally mature dendritic cells (DCs) have raised the possibility that DCs might represent promising clinical agents to generate effective immune responses against cancer. Here, we discuss the present pitfalls of dendritic cell vaccines for the treatment of human cancer with regard to the most recent knowledge in the biology of DCs. In particular, we highlight the relevance of improving our current understanding of DC trafficking, functions and interactions with other cells of innate immunity for the development of more effective cancer vaccines.

Beta-glucan feeding effect on biochemical and immune responses in vaccinated and non-vaccinated piglets against proliferative enteropathy

The aim of this study was to compare the results of active non-specific immuno-modulation in form of feeding food additive based on beta-glucan to pregnant sows and consecutive specific immuno-modulation by vaccination of their sucklings. Experimental sows were fed feedstuff with preparation on basis of beta-glucan at a 5% concentration from day 14 before parturition until the weaning of piglets; control sows were fed standard feedstuff only. Sucklings were vaccinated with a single dose of 2 ml of oral vaccine Enterisol® Ileitis one week before weaning. Collection of biological material was done 3 × in sows and 5 × in sucklings. Post-vaccination examination of blood serum for antibodies against L. intracellularis in sucklings in experimental and control groups was negative, probably due to insufficiently long period of rejection of antibiotics-medicated feedstuff and by chlorinated water. With the exception of immunological profile, no essential changes were recorded in the dynamics of other indices of examined profiles in groups of sows in relation to immune-modulation. In groups of sucklings from sows fed beta-glucan supplemented feedstuff significant changes were determined for various indices compared with sucklings from sows fed standard foodstuff. This is the first similar study in pig herds in Slovakia.

IL4 and IFNalpha generation of dendritic cells reveals great migratory potential and NFkB and cJun expression in IL4DCs

Dendritic cells (DCs) recently revealed as a potent tumor vaccine component, are commonly differentiated from monocytes by cultivation with IL-4 and GM-CSF. Despite the different opinions, the use of IFNalpha can promote DCs differentiation and activation. The aim of this study was to compare the functionality and phenotypic characterization of monocyte-derived DC generated by IL-4 (IL4DC) and IFNalpha (IFNalphaDC) modified protocols. To this aim, we investigated the expression of maturation markers, co-stimulatory molecules, relevant miRNA, cytokine and migratory profiles and the functional ability of these cells to stimulate autologous T cells in vitro. We herein investigated the molecular mechanism underlying the parameters previously described, as the relative expression of NF-kB p65, c-fos and c-jun, transcription factors. Our results demonstrated that IL4DC presented a stable phenotype, an increase in migratory capacity and NF-KB activation, in addition to lower levels of miR-146 a and miR-221. We believe that the IL4DC migratory potential and increase in NFkBp65 expression may be involved in higher IL12 expression and migration, suggesting a preferential activation of TH1 immune responses by IL4DC.

Giardia duodenalis arginine deiminase modulates the phenotype and cytokine secretion of human dendritic cells by depletion of arginine and formation of ammonia

Depletion of arginine is a recognized strategy that pathogens use to evade immune effector mechanisms. Depletion depends on microbial enzymes such as arginases, which are considered virulence factors. The effect is mostly interpreted as being a consequence of successful competition with host enzymes for the substrate. However, both arginases and arginine deiminases (ADI) have been associated with pathogen virulence. Both deplete arginine, but their reaction products differ. An ADI has been implicated in the virulence of Giardia duodenalis, an intestinal parasite that infects humans and animals, causing significant morbidity. Dendritic cells (DC) play a critical role in host defense and also in a murine G. duodenalis infection model. The functional properties of these innate immune cells depend on the milieu in which they are activated. Here, the dependence of the response of these cells on arginine was studied by using Giardia ADI and lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human monocyte-derived DC. Arginine depletion by ADI significantly increased tumor necrosis factor alpha and decreased interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-12p40 secretion. It also reduced the upregulation of surface CD83 and CD86 molecules, which are involved in cell-cell interactions. Arginine depletion also reduced the phosphorylation of S6 kinase in DC, suggesting the involvement of the mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway. The changes were due to arginine depletion and the formation of reaction products, in particular, ammonium ions. Comparison of NH(4)(+) and urea revealed distinct immunomodulatory activities of these products of deiminases and arginases, respectively. The data suggest that a better understanding of the role of arginine-depleting pathogen enzymes for immune evasion will have to take enzyme class and reaction products into consideration.

Reciprocal crosstalk between dendritic cells and natural killer cells under the effects of PGE2 in immunity and immunopathology

The reciprocal activating crosstalk between dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NK) cells plays a pivotal role in regulating immune defense against viruses and tumors. The cytokine-producing capacity, Th-cell polarizing ability and chemokine expression, migration and stimulatory functions of DCs are regulated by activated NK cells. Conversely, the innate and effector functions of NK cells require close interactions with activated DCs. Cell membrane-associated molecules and soluble mediators, including cytokines and prostaglandins (PGs), contribute to the bidirectional crosstalk between DCs and NK cells. One of the most well-known and well-studied PGs is PGE2. Produced by many cell types, PGE2 has been shown to affect various aspects of the immune and inflammatory responses by acting on all components of the immune system. There is emerging evidence that PGE2 plays crucial roles in DC and NK cell biology. Several studies have shown that DCs are not only a source of PGE2, but also a target of its immunomodulatory action in normal immune response and during immune disorders. Although NK cells appear to be unable to produce PGE2, they are described as powerful PGE2-responding cells, as they express all PGE2 E-prostanoid (EP) receptors. Several NK cell functions (lysis, migration, proliferation, cytokine production) are influenced by PGE2. This review highlights the effects of PGE2 on DC-NK cell crosstalk and its subsequent impact on immune regulations in normal and immunopathological processes.

Regulation of mevalonate metabolism in cancer and immune cells

The mevalonate pathway is a highly conserved metabolic cascade and provides isoprenoid building blocks for the biosynthesis of vital cellular products such as cholesterol or prenyl pyrophosphates that serve as substrates for the posttranslational prenylation of numerous proteins. The pathway, which is frequently hyperactive in cancer cells, is considered an important target in cancer therapy, since prenylated members of the Ras superfamily are crucially involved in the control of proliferation, survival, invasion and metastasis of tumour cells. Upstream accumulation and downstream depletion of mevalonate pathway intermediates as induced for instance by aminobisphosphonates translate into different effects in cancer and immune cells. Thus, mevalonate pathway regulation can affect tumour biology either directly or exhibit indirect antitumour effects through stimulating cancer immune surveillance. The present review summarizes major effects of pharmacologic mevalonate pathway regulation in cancer and immune cells that may collaboratively contribute to the efficacy of cancer therapy.

An in vitro model of mycobacterial granuloma to investigate the immune response in brain-injured patients

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the overall immune response to pathogens in brain-injured patients, and assessed its relationship to nosocomial pneumonia.

DESIGN

Observational study.

SETTING

Two surgical ICUs of a single institution.

PATIENTS

Severe brain-injured patients (n = 32) requiring mechanical ventilation and sex- and age-matched healthy donors (n = 25).

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We evaluated, ex vivo, the ability of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from brain injury patients to develop an effective granulomatous response to mycobacteria. Thirty-two consecutive patients (25 traumatic brain injured and seven subarachnoid hemorrhage) were included. Median Glasgow Coma Scale was 7 (5-8). Thirteen (41%) patients developed nosocomial pneumonia. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from brain-injured patients with nosocomial pneumonia generated significantly fewer mature granulomas compared with brain-injured patients without nosocomial pneumonia and with healthy donors. The percentage of multinucleated giant cells was lower in brain-injured patients without nosocomial pneumonia (1% [range: 0%-7%]) and in brain-injured patients with nosocomial pneumonia (4% [range: 2%-5%]) compared with healthy donors (20% [range: 15%-28%]). The blood levels of γδ T cells were significantly increased in brain-injured patients without nosocomial pneumonia (66% [range: 34%-69%]) compared with healthy donors (23% [range: 8%-61%]) and was not altered in brain-injured patients with nosocomial pneumonia (31% [range: 12%-44%]). The percentage of γδ T cells in granulomas was significantly decreased in brain injury patients with nosocomial pneumonia (5% [range: 4%-43%]) compared with healthy donors (43% [range: 19%-54%]) and was not significantly altered in brain-injured patients without nosocomial pneumonia (26% [range: 10%-41%]). The blood levels of natural killer cells were not altered in brain-injured patients. The percentage of natural killer cells in granulomas was significantly decreased in brain-injured patients with nosocomial pneumonia (3% [range: 1%-9%]) compared with brain-injured patients without nosocomial pneumonia (16% [range: 6%-29%]) and with healthy donors (17% [range: 10%-29%]).

CONCLUSIONS

Brain-injured patients experienced a maturation defect of the ex vivo granulomatous response involving monocytes as well as natural killer cells and γδ T cells.

Robust T-cell stimulation by Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B cells after antigen targeting to DEC-205

DEC-205 is a type I transmembrane multilectin receptor that is predominantly expressed on dendritic cells (DCs). Therefore, previous studies primarily focused on processing of DEC-205–targeted antigens by this potent antigen presenting cell type. Here we show that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) transformed lymphoblastoid B-cell lines (LCLs) not only express DEC-205 at similar levels to DCs, but also efficiently present targeted EBV nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1) and EBV-latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) to EBNA1- and LMP1-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell clones in vitro. Targeting of antigens to DEC-205 on B cells led to more efficient MHC class II than I loading, and stimulated T cells more efficiently than targeting to DEC-205 on DCs. Although LCLs internalized DEC-205–targeted antigens less efficiently than DCs, they retained them for longer time periods and delivered them to endosomal compartments that receive also B-cell receptor targeted proteins. This could facilitate prolonged T-cell stimulation and efficient MHC class II loading, and, indeed, CD4+ T-cell expansion by DEC-205–targeted vaccination was significantly compromised in B-cell deficient mice. These studies suggest that B cells, activated by virus transformation or other means, can contribute to T-cell stimulation after DEC-205 targeting of antigens during vaccination.

Lipids are required for the development of Brazil nut allergy: the role of mouse and human iNKT cells

BACKGROUND

Lipids are required for mice sensitization to Ber e 1, Brazil nut major allergen. Here, we characterized different lipid fractions extracted from Brazil nuts and the lipid-binding ability of Ber e 1. Further, we determined their in vivo ability to induce Ber-specific anaphylactic antibodies and the role of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells in this process.

METHODS

Wild-type (WT) and iNKT cell-deficient mice were sensitized with Ber e 1 and specific lipid fractions, and anaphylactic antibodies were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA). The lipid-binding characteristic of Ber e 1 (Ber) was established by using fluorescent probes and (15) N-labeled NMR. In vitro production of IL-4 was determined in Ber/lipid C-stimulated mouse iNKT cells and human T-cell lines containing NKTs primed with CD1d+C1R transfectants by flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively.

RESULTS

Only one specific lipid fraction (lipid C), containing neutral and common phospholipids, induced Ber anaphylactic antibodies in mice. Ber e 1 has a lipid-binding site, and our results indicated an interaction between Ber e 1 and lipid C. iNKT-deficient mice produced lower levels of anaphylactic antibodies than WT mice. In vitro, Ber/lipid C-stimulated murine iNKT cells produced IL-4 but not IFN-gamma. Human T-cell lines derived from nut-allergic patients produced IL-4 to Ber/lipid C in a CD1d- and dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

Lipid fraction C from Brazil nut presents an essential adjuvant activity to Ber e 1 sensitization, and iNKT cells play a critical role in the development of Brazil nut-allergic response.

Dendritic cells and vaccine design for sexually-transmitted diseases

Dendritic cells (DCs) are major antigen presenting cells (APCs) that can initiate and control host immune responses toward either immunity or tolerance. These features of DCs, as immune orchestrators, are well characterized by their tissue localizations as well as by their subset-dependent functional specialties and plasticity. Thus, the level of protective immunity to invading microbial pathogens can be dependent on the subsets of DCs taking up microbial antigens and their functional plasticity in response to microbial products, host cellular components and the cytokine milieu in the microenvironment. Vaccines are the most efficient and cost-effective preventive medicine against infectious diseases. However, major challenges still remain for the diseases caused by sexually-transmitted pathogens, including HIV, HPV, HSV and Chlamydia. We surmise that the establishment of protective immunity in the female genital mucosa, the major entry and transfer site of these pathogens, will bring significant benefit for the protection against sexually-transmitted diseases. Recent progresses made in DC biology suggest that vaccines designed to target proper DC subsets may permit us to establish protective immunity in the female genital mucosa against sexually-transmitted pathogens.

Sequential administration of cytokine genes to enhance cellular immune responses and CD4 (+) T memory cells during DNA vaccination

Antigen specific memory T cells (Tm) have shown to be an important factor in protecting hosts against subsequent infection by previously encountered pathogens. During T-cell activation, several cytokines including IL-6, IL-7 and IL-15, play crucial roles in the development of T cells into memory T cells. With the aim of generating specific Tm, we examined a strategy of sequential administration of molecular adjuvants. In this strategy a DNA vaccine encoding the VP1 capsid protein of foot and mouth disease virus (designated pcD-VP1) was co-delivered to mice along with an IL-6 expressing plasmid (pVAX-IL-6) as an initial molecular adjuvant and boosted with either an IL-7 or IL-15 expressing plasmid, (pVAX-IL-7 or proVAX-IL-15) as the secondary adjuvant. During the pcD-VP1 immunization, we demonstrated that the groups primed with IL-6 and boosted with either IL-7 or IL-15 resulted in the enhancement of cellular and humoral immune responses, maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages, and a higher frequency of CD4 (+) Tm (characterized by expressing CD44 (high) CD62L (low) markers, compared with the other groups). Thus, we took advantage of the different effects of cytokines on T cell development, not only to induce a higher level of immune responses after vaccination, but also to generate a higher ratio of CD4 (+) Tm in this sequential cytokine prime-boost study. This would then lead to the mounting of an effective long-term antigen specific immune response.

Clinical regressions and broad immune activation following combination therapy targeting human NKT cells in myeloma

Natural killer T (iNKT) cells can help mediate immune surveillance against tumors in mice. Prior studies targeting human iNKT cells were limited to therapy of advanced cancer and led to only modest activation of innate immunity. Clinical myeloma is preceded by an asymptomatic precursor phase. Lenalidomide was shown to mediate antigen-specific costimulation of human iNKT cells. We treated 6 patients with asymptomatic myeloma with 3 cycles of combination of α-galactosylceramide-loaded monocyte-derived dendritic cells and low-dose lenalidomide. Therapy was well tolerated and led to reduction in tumor-associated monoclonal immunoglobulin in 3 of 4 patients with measurable disease. Combination therapy led to activation-induced decline in measurable iNKT cells and activation of NK cells with an increase in NKG2D and CD56 expression. Treatment also led to activation of monocytes with an increase in CD16 expression. Each cycle of therapy was associated with induction of eosinophilia as well as an increase in serum soluble IL2 receptor. Clinical responses correlated with pre-existing or treatment-induced antitumor T-cell immunity. These data demonstrate synergistic activation of several innate immune cells by this combination and the capacity to mediate tumor regression. Combination therapies targeting iNKT cells may be of benefit toward prevention of cancer in humans.