Vitamin D Is Required for ILC3 Derived IL-22 and Protection From Citrobacter rodentium Infection

Effectiveness of raw bacteriocin produced from lactic acid bacteria on biofilm of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Background and Aim

Probiotics are proven beneficial to health since they enhance immunity against dangerous pathogens and increase resistance to illness. Bacteriocin produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB), demonstrates a broad inhibitory spectrum and therapeutic potential. This study aimed to isolate LAB-producing bacteriocin and investigate the effect of crude bacteriocin on biofilm from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Materials and Methods

This study used randomly collected 80 white soft local cheeses (40 each from cows and sheep) from different supermarkets in Basrah Province. The obtained samples were cultured and the bacterial suspension of S. aureus was prepared at 1.5 × 10⁸ cells/mL. The crude bacteriocin extracted from LAB was obtained, and the tube was dried and inverted to detect the biofilm loss at the bottom.

Results

There were 67 (83.75%) LAB isolates. Among 40 milk samples collected directly and indirectly, there were 36 (83.33%). Staphylococcus aureus isolates based on conventional bacteriological analysis and biochemical tests. Molecular testing was conducted to identify LAB and MRSA. Depending on genotypic results, the effect of white soft local cheese (cows and sheep) and the amplification results of the 16S rRNA gene were detected in 46 LAB isolates from white soft local cheese from cows and sheep. Based on the molecular identification of the mecA, results on Staphylococcus determined that only 2 of 36 isolates of S. aureus carried the mecA. Moreover, there were 26 (86.66%) isolates (MRSA) from samples of raw milk from local markets and subclinical mastitis in cows. The ability of LAB isolates was tested. The effects of bacteriocin production on preventing biofilm growth and formation were investigated. Results demonstrated that bacteriocin has high activity. Microtiter plates applied to investigate the ability of S. aureus to produce biofilms revealed that all isolates were either weak or moderate biofilm producers, with neither non-biofilm nor strong biofilm producers found among the tested isolates.

Conclusion

Lactic acid bacteria demonstrate a high ability to produce bacteriocin. Crude bacteriocin from LAB has a restrictive effect on biofilms produced by MRSA; thus, it can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of this bacterium.

Anti-Arthritic Effect of Edaravone Against Complete Freund Adjuvant Induced Arthritis via Osteoclast Differentiation and HIF-1α-VEGF-ANG-1 Axis

Background

Bone dysfunction is a crucial problem that occurs during rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease. Osteoclast plays a significant role in bone resorption and osteoclast differentiation and its enhancement of bone destruction. Edaravone remarkably exhibited free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory effects. The objective of the current investigation is to comfort the inhibitory effect of Edaravone (ED) against complete Freund adjuvant (CFA) rat model via inhibition of angiogenesis and inflammation.

Methods

Subcutaneous injection of CFA (1%) was used to induce arthritis; the rats were divided into different groups and received the oral administration of ED. Paw edema, body weight, and arthritis score were regularly estimated. Biochemical parameters were estimated, respectively. We also estimate the level of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), angiopoietin 1 (ANG-1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We also checked into how ED affected the differentiation of osteoclasts utilising a co-culture system with monocytes and synovial fibroblasts in arthritis rats.

Results

ED treatment significantly (P<0.001) suppressed the arthritis score and paw edema and improved the body weight. ED treatment significantly (P<0.001) altered the antioxidant parameters and pro-inflammatory cytokines: inflammatory mediator nuclear kappa B factor (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), respectively. Furthermore, ED treatment significantly (P<0.001) suppressed the level of ANG-1, HIF-1α, and VEGF, respectively. The results suggest that ED suppressed osteoclast differentiation and also decreased the level of cytokines and osteopontin (OPN), receptor activator for nuclear factor-κ B Ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) in the co-culture supernatant of monocytes and synovial fibroblasts.

Conclusion

Edaravone could mitigate CFA via inhibiting angiogenesis and inflammatory reactions, which may be linked with the HIF-1α-VEGF-ANG-1 axis and also enhance the bone destruction of murine arthritis via suppression of osteoclast differentiation and inflammatory reaction.

Measures of epitope binding degeneracy from T cell receptor repertoires

Adaptive immunity is driven by specific binding of hypervariable receptors to diverse molecular targets. The sequence diversity of receptors and targets are both individually known but because multiple receptors can recognize the same target, a measure of the effective "functional" diversity of the human immune system has remained elusive. Here, we show that sequence near-coincidences within T cell receptors that bind specific epitopes provide a new window into this problem and allow the quantification of how binding probability covaries with sequence. We find that near-coincidence statistics within epitope-specific repertoires imply a measure of binding degeneracy to amino acid changes in receptor sequence that is consistent across disparate experiments. Paired data on both chains of the heterodimeric receptor are particularly revealing since simultaneous near-coincidences are rare and we show how they can be exploited to estimate the number of epitope responses that created the memory compartment. In addition, we find that paired-chain coincidences are strongly suppressed across donors with different human leukocyte antigens, evidence for a central role of antigen-driven selection in making paired chain receptors public. These results demonstrate the power of coincidence analysis to reveal the sequence determinants of epitope binding in receptor repertoires.

Acute phase response following pulmonary exposure to soluble and insoluble metal oxide nanomaterials in mice

BACKGROUND

Acute phase response (APR) is characterized by a change in concentration of different proteins, including C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A (SAA) that can be linked to both exposure to metal oxide nanomaterials and risk of cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we intratracheally exposed mice to ZnO, CuO, Al₂O₃, SnO₂ and TiO₂ and carbon black (Printex 90) nanomaterials with a wide range in phagolysosomal solubility. We subsequently assessed neutrophil numbers, protein and lactate dehydrogenase activity in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, Saa3 and Saa1 mRNA levels in lung and liver tissue, respectively, and SAA3 and SAA1/2 in plasma. Endpoints were analyzed 1 and 28 days after exposure, including histopathology of lung and liver tissues.

RESULTS

All nanomaterials induced pulmonary inflammation after 1 day, and exposure to ZnO, CuO, SnO₂, TiO₂ and Printex 90 increased Saa3 mRNA levels in lungs and Saa1 mRNA levels in liver. Additionally, CuO, SnO₂, TiO₂ and Printex 90 increased plasma levels of SAA3 and SAA1/2. Acute phase response was predicted by deposited surface area for insoluble metal oxides, 1 and 28 days post-exposure.

CONCLUSION

Soluble and insoluble metal oxides induced dose-dependent APR with different time dependency. Neutrophil influx, Saa3 mRNA levels in lung tissue and plasma SAA3 levels correlated across all studied nanomaterials, suggesting that these endpoints can be used as biomarkers of acute phase response and cardiovascular disease risk following exposure to soluble and insoluble particles.

Role of Hemin in the Immune Response of T Follicular Helper Lymphocytes Expressing T-Cell Immunoreceptor with Immunoglobulin and Immunoreceptor Tyrosine-Based Inhibitory Domains, Programmed Cell Death-1, and Interleukin-21 in Allo-Auto Positive and Negative Thalassemia

Introduction

Repeated transfusions in thalassemia patients can cause several complications, including alloimmunization and autoimmunization.

Purpose

This study compares the immune response of T follicular helper (Tfh) lymphocytes expressing T-cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory domains (TIGIT), programmed cell death-1 (PD-1), and interleukin-21 (IL-21) between patients with allo-auto positive and negative thalassemia before and after hemin administration.

Materials and Methods

This study used a quasi-experimental pre- and post-test design and was performed between April and November 2021 at the Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia. It enrolled 29 patients with allo-auto positive thalassemia and 28 with allo-auto negative, and 9 mL of whole blood (WB) was drawn from each patient. Hemin solution (20 µM) was added to 5 mL of WB, incubated for two hours, processed into peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in RPMI media, and cultured with 5% CO2 for three days. The 4 mL WB sample was also processed into PBMCs. PBMC cells cultured and without cultured were examined by flow cytometry using a BD FACSCalibur after surface and intracellular staining. Differences in Tfh cells expressing TIGIT, PD-1, and IL-21 between thalassemia groups before and after hemin administration were compared using independent t-tests or Mann-Whitney U-tests (p < 0.05).

Results

Tfh cell expression did not differ between groups before hemin administration and increased after hemin administration. The increase in Tfh cell expression was higher in the allo-auto positive group. TIGIT and PD-1 expression in Tfh cells did not differ between groups, but TIGIT decreased after hemin administration in contrast to PD-1 result. IL-21 expression in Tfh cells did not differ between groups and did not change after hemin administration.

Conclusion

Hemin affected the expression of Tfh cells in both group thalassemia, but there was no difference of Tfh cell expression between the groups.

Impact of Hemin on Interleukin-21 Levels and Plasma Cells in Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia with Positive and Negative Allo-Autoantibody

Introduction

Antibody formation in transfusion-dependent thalassemia is associated with chronic hemolysis and repeated transfusions. Hemolysis produces heme, which mediates B-cell differentiation into plasma cells and produces antibodies influenced by interleukin-21 (IL-21).

Objective

This study aimed to compare IL-21 levels, plasma cell percentage, and red blood cell antibodies between positive and negative allo-autoantibody thalassemia before and after hemin administration.

Materials and Methods

This research employed a quasi-experimental nonequivalent control group pre-test and post-test design performed from April to November 2021 at Soetomo Academic Hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia. Heparinized blood samples of 5 mL and 4 mL and EDTA blood samples of 3 mL were taken from positive (29 patients) and negative (28 patients) allo-autoantibody thalassemia participants. Hemin 20 µM was added to 5 mL of heparinized blood, incubated for 2 hours, prepared into peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and cultured for 3 days. The percentage of plasma cells (CD38+CD184+) of cultured and uncultured PBMCs was measured by BD FACSCalibur Flow Cytometer. IL-21 levels of plasma and supernatants were measured with Sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay by Elabscience. Red blood cell antibodies were detected by QWALYS 3 E.M. Technology. Autoantibodies were determined by the Grifols gel tube method.

Results

IL-21 levels were significantly different in the positive and negative allo-autoantibody thalassemia groups after hemin administration. The percentage of plasma cells in the positive allo-autoantibody group increased significantly after the administration of hemin. The percentage of plasma cells between thalassemia groups was not significantly different before the hemin administration but increased significantly after it. Red blood cell antibodies after the administration of hemin were significantly different in the negative allo-autoantibody group but not significantly different in the positive allo-autoantibody group.

Conclusion

Hemin administration affected IL-21 levels, plasma cell percentage, and antibody formation in positive and negative allo-auto antibody thalassemia.

Frequency of HLA alleles and KIR Ligands in Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Indian Cohort

Relationship between various combinations of KIR ligands and HLA alleles have been studied in several diseases. The aim of this retrospective study was to estimate the frequency of HLA alleles and KIR ligands among acute myeloid leukemia patients and healthy controls in order to examine the possible association of HLA alleles and KIR ligands with AML. A total of 439 acute myeloid leukemia patients and 1317 unrelated, healthy ethnic Indian controls were included in the study. HLA typing was performed using PCR-SSP. KIR ligands were assigned by using the KIR ligand Calculator. The frequency of HLA alleles and KIR ligands in patients was then compared with the controls. As compared to controls, frequencies of HLA-A*03 and HLA-B*35 were increased in AML patients, whereas, that of HLA-C*03 was decreased. Frequencies of HLA-A*03 and HLA-C*15 were increased in male patients, however, no significant difference was observed in female patients as compared to controls. In the pediatric group, the frequencies of HLA-A*01 was decreased and that of HLA-A*03 and HLA-B*18 were increased, whereas, frequencies of HLA-B*13 was decreased and that of HLA-B*27 was increased in the adult patients. In the haplotype analysis, the frequency of HLA-A*24/B*35/DRB1*15 was increased in overall patients. In adult group, the frequency of HLA-A*01/B*44/DRB1*07 was increased in patients than in controls. No significant association was observed between KIR ligands and susceptibility/ protection to AML. Our results indicate that certain HLA alleles and haplotypes have presumptive positive or negative role in conferring protection/susceptibility to AML.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12288-022-01550-0.

Systemic delivery of menstrual blood stem cells is more effective in preventing remote organ injuries following myocardial infarction in comparison with bone marrow stem cells in rat

Objectives

Remote organ injury is a phenomenon that could happen following myocardial infarction (MI). We evaluated the potency of menstrual blood stromal (stem) cells (MenSCs) and bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) to alleviate remote organ injuries following MI in rats.

Materials and Methods

2 × 10⁶ MenSCs or BMSCs were administrated seven days after MI induction via the tail vein. Four weeks after cell therapy, activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea, creatinine, and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) were evaluated. The level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 were determined by ELISA assay. The expression of Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB) was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. Apoptosis activity and tissue damage were also determined by TUNEL and H&E staining, respectively.

Results

MenSCs and BMSCs administration caused a significant reduction in AST, urea, and BUN levels compared with the MI group. In addition, systemic injection of MenSCs significantly decreased the IL-1β level compared with BMSCs and MI groups (P<0.05 and P<0.01 respectively). Apoptosis in injured kidneys was noticeably diminished in MenSCs-treated rats compared with BMSCs administrated and MI groups (P<0.05 and P<0.05, respectively). In hepatic tissue, limited numbers of TUNEL-positive cells were detected in all groups. Interestingly, MenSCs therapy evoked inhibition of NF-κB in the kidney strikingly. Although, no significant NF-κB expression was observed in hepatic tissue in any group (P>0.05).

Conclusion

MenSCs are probably more protective than BMSCs on remote organ injuries following MI via decreasing cell death and immunoregulatory properties.

Curcuma longa supplementation reduces MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels in a rat model exposed to soot particulates

Background

Particulate matter (PM) is one of the important components in air pollution that can cause endothelial vascular dysfunction through exacerbation of atherosclerosis and inflammation of the respiratory system. Increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in blood plasma can be an indicator of oxidative stress. Then, macrophages can secrete proinflammatory cytokines that will stimulate immune cells and vascular endothelial cells to release inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrotic factor-α (TNF-α). Curcuma longa works by scavenging the active free radicals involved in the peroxidation process.

Aims

This study aims to prove that the administration of C. longa can reduce MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels in Rattus norvegicus exposed to soot particulates.

Methods

The subjects of this study were 30 male rats which were divided into 5 treatment groups with the following: (C0): negative control; (C+): positive control; (T1): Treatment group 2, rats exposed to particulate soot at a concentration of 1,064 mg/m³ for 8 hours and given C. longa at a dose of 1 mg/kg bw; (T2): Treatment group 3 was rats exposed to soot particulates at a concentration of 1,064 mg/m³ for 8 hours and given C. longa at a dose of 2 mg/kg bw; (T3): Treatment group 4 was rats exposed to soot particulates at a concentration of 1,064 mg/m³ for 8 hours and given C. longa at a dose of 3 mg/kg bw.Giving the C. longa extract orally with a probe every day for 30 days after treatment of exposure to soot. Examination of MDA, TNF-, and IL-6 levels with the ELISA method.

Results

The administration of C. longa can reduce MDA while the lowest MDA levels were obtained in the T3 treatment with an average of 1.542 ± 0.231. The results of the description of the lowest levels of TNF-α were obtained in the C-treatment with an average of 55.981 ± 4.689. Then, the lowest levels of IL-6 were obtained in the C-treatment with an average of 2.292 ± 0.461.

Conclusion

The results stated that the administration of C. longa could reduce MDA levels, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels. Curcuma longa as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant play an effective role in inhibiting inflammation by decreasing IL-6 cytokine and TNF-α. Curcuma longa can inhibit lipid peroxidation initiated by free radicals and then reduce MDA levels.

The role of group 3 innate lymphoid cell in intestinal disease

Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s), a novel subpopulation of lymphocytes enriched in the intestinal mucosa, are currently considered as key sentinels in maintaining intestinal immune homeostasis. ILC3s can secrete a series of cytokines such as IL-22 to eliminate intestinal luminal antigens, promote epithelial tissue repair and mucosal barrier integrity, and regulate intestinal immunity by integrating multiple signals from the environment and the host. However, ILC3 dysfunction may be associated with the development and progression of various diseases in the gut. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the role of ILC3 in intestinal diseases such as enteric infectious diseases, intestinal inflammation, and tumors, with a focus on recent research advances and discoveries to explore potential therapeutic targets.

Expression of Galectin-9-related immune checkpoint receptors in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Objectives

Exhausted CD8+ T-cells over-express immune checkpoint receptors (ICRs), which interact with their ligands on malignant cells. However, some ICRs have been reported to be expressed on both T-cells and tumor cells, including V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA), Galectin-9, and T-cell immunoglobulin mucin-3 (TIM-3). We aimed to evaluate the mRNA expression of VISTA, Galectin-9, and TIM-3 on CD8+ T-cells and leukemic cells in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL).

Materials and Methods

Samples were obtained from 26 untreated B-ALL patients and 25 control subjects. CD8+ T-cells were isolated using Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS). Relative gene expression was then evaluated by qRT-PCR with specific primers for VISTA, Galectin-9, and TIM-3. Also, the mRNA expression profile and clinical data of 154 B-ALL patients were obtained from the TARGET.

Results

mRNA expression of Galectin-9 on CD8+ T-cells in B-ALL patients was significantly lower than those in the control group (P=0.043), while VISTA expression was not significantly different between the two study groups (P=0.259). Besides, TIM-3 expression was significantly higher in B-ALL patients than in the control group (P<0.001). Also, data obtained from TARGET showed that the relapse incidence was not significantly different between patients with high and low expression of Galectin-9 and TIM-3 in leukemic cells (P=0.360 and P=0.655, respectively).

Conclusion

Collectively, gene expression results suggest an important role for TIM-3, but not VISTA and Galectin-9, in B-ALL and it seems that TIM-3 could be a candidate for immune checkpoint therapy.

Antibodies in action: the role of humoral immunity in the fight against atherosclerosis

The sequestering of oxidation-modified low-density lipoprotein by macrophages results in the accumulation of fatty deposits within the walls of arteries. Necrosis of these cells causes a release of intercellular epitopes and the activation of the adaptive immune system, which we predict leads to robust autoantibody production. T cells produce cytokines that act in the plaque environment and further stimulate B cell antibody production. B cells in atherosclerosis meanwhile have a mixed role based on subclass. The current model is that B-1 cells produce protective IgM antibodies in response to oxidation-specific epitopes that work to control plaque formation, while follicular B-2 cells produce class-switched antibodies (IgG, IgA, and IgE) which exacerbate the disease. Over the course of this review, we discuss further the validation of these protective antibodies while evaluating the current dogma regarding class-switched antibodies in atherosclerosis. There are several contradictory findings regarding the involvement of class-switched antibodies in the disease. We hypothesize that this is due to antigen-specificity, and not simply isotype, being important, and that a closer evaluation of these antibodies' targets should be conducted. We propose that specific antibodies may have therapeutical potential in preventing and controlling plaque development within a clinical setting.

Metabolic control of innate lymphoid cells in health and disease

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a family of predominantly tissue-resident lymphocytes that critically orchestrate immunity, inflammation, tolerance and repair at barrier surfaces of the mammalian body. Heterogeneity among ILC subsets is comparable to that of adaptive CD4⁺ T helper cell counterparts, and emerging studies demonstrate that ILC biology is also dictated by cellular metabolism that adapts bioenergetic requirements during activation, proliferation or cytokine production. Accumulating evidence in mouse models and human samples indicates that ILCs exhibit profound roles in shaping states of metabolic health and disease. Here we summarize and discuss our current knowledge of the cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic metabolic factors controlling ILC responses, as well as highlight contributions of ILCs to organismal metabolism. It is expected that continued research in this area will advance our understanding of how to manipulate ILCs or their metabolism for therapeutic strategies that benefit human health.

Enzyme-triggered- and tumor-targeted delivery with tunable, methacrylated poly(ethylene glycols) and hyaluronic acid hybrid nanogels

Enzyme-responsive polymeric-based nanostructures are potential candidates for serving as key materials in targeted drug delivery carriers. However, the major risk in their prolonged application is fast disassembling of the short-lived polymeric-based structures. Another disadvantage is the limited accessibility of the enzyme to the moieties that are located inside the network. Here, we report on a modified environmentally responsive and enzymatically cleavable nanogel carrier that contains a hybrid network. A properly adjusted volume phase transition (VPT) temperature allowed independent shrinking of a) poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (OEGMA) with di(ethylene glycol) and b) methyl ether methacrylate (MEO2MA) part of the network, and the exposition of hyaluronic acid methacrylate (MeHa) network based carboxylic groups for its targeted action with the cellular based receptors. This effect was substantial after raising temperature in typical hyperthermia-based treatment therapies. Additionally, novel tunable NGs gained an opportunity to store- and to efficient-enzyme-triggered release relatively low but highly therapeutic doses of doxorubicin (DOX) and mitoxantrone (MTX). The controlled enzymatic degradation of NGs could be enhanced by introducing more hyaluronidase enzyme (HAdase), that is usually overexpressed in cancer environments. MTT assay results revealed effective cytotoxic activity of the NGs against the human MCF-7 breast cancer cells, the A278 ovarian cancer cells and also cytocompatibility against the MCF-10A and HOF healthy cells. The obtained tunable, hybrid network NGs might be used as a useful platform for programmed delivery of other pharmaceuticals and diagnostics in therapeutic applications.

Specific associations between fungi and bacteria in broncho-alveolar aspirates from mechanically ventilated intensive care unit patients

The detection of fungi in the human respiratory tract may represent contamination, colonization or a respiratory infection. To develop effective management strategies, a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the lung fungal microbiome is required. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to define the "mycobiome" of mechanically ventilated patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) using broncho-alveolar aspirate ("sputum") samples and correlate this with clinical parameters and the bacterial microbiota. To this end, the mycobiome of 33 sputum samples was analyzed by Internal Transcribed Spacer2 (ITS2) amplicon sequencing of the ribosomal operons. The results show that in the investigated sputa of mechanically ventilated patients Candida spp. were most frequently detected, independent of pneumonia or antimicrobial therapy. The presence of Candida excluded in most cases the presence of Malassezia, which was the second most-frequently encountered fungus. Moreover, a hierarchical clustering of the sequence data indicated a patient-specific mycobiome. Fungi detected by culturing (Candida and Aspergillus) were also detected through ITS2 sequencing, but other yeasts and fungi were only detectable by sequencing. While Candida showed no correlations with identified bacterial groups, the presence of Malassezia and Rhodotorula correlated with oral bacteria associated with periodontal disease. Likewise, Cladosporium correlated with other oral bacteria, whereas Saccharomyces correlated more specifically with dental plaque bacteria and Alternaria with the nasal-throat-resident bacteria Neisseria, Haemophilus and Moraxella. In conclusion, ITS2 sequencing of sputum samples uncovered patient-specific lung mycobiomes, which were only partially detectable by culturing, and which could be correlated to specific nasal-oral-pharyngeal niches.

ILCs-Crucial Players in Enteric Infectious Diseases

Research of the last decade has remarkably increased our understanding of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). ILCs, in analogy to T helper (Th) cells and their cytokine and transcription factor profile, are categorized into three distinct populations: ILC1s express the transcription factor T-bet and secrete IFNγ, ILC2s depend on the expression of GATA-3 and release IL-5 and IL-13, and ILC3s express RORγt and secrete IL-17 and IL-22. Noteworthy, ILCs maintain a level of plasticity, depending on exposed cytokines and environmental stimuli. Furthermore, ILCs are tissue resident cells primarily localized at common entry points for pathogens such as the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). They have the unique capacity to initiate rapid responses against pathogens, provoked by changes of the cytokine profile of the respective tissue. Moreover, they regulate tissue inflammation and homeostasis. In case of intracellular pathogens entering the mucosal tissue, ILC1s respond by secreting cytokines (e.g., IFNγ) to limit the pathogen spread. Upon infection with helminths, intestinal epithelial cells produce alarmins (e.g., IL-25) and activate ILC2s to secrete IL-13, which induces differentiation of intestinal stem cells into tuft and goblet cells, important for parasite expulsion. Additionally, during bacterial infection ILC3-derived IL-22 is required for bacterial clearance by regulating antimicrobial gene expression in epithelial cells. Thus, ILCs can limit infectious diseases via secretion of inflammatory mediators and interaction with other cell types. In this review, we will address the role of ILCs during enteric infectious diseases.

Bordetella pertussis whole cell immunization protects against Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections

Whole cell vaccines are complex mixtures of antigens, immunogens, and sometimes adjuvants that can trigger potent and protective immune responses. In some instances, such as whole cell Bordetella pertussis vaccination, the immune response to vaccination extends beyond the pathogen the vaccine was intended for and contributes to protection against other clinically significant pathogens. In this study, we describe how B. pertussis whole cell vaccination protects mice against acute pneumonia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Using ELISA and western blot, we identified that B. pertussis whole cell vaccination induces production of antibodies that bind to lab-adapted and clinical strains of P. aeruginosa, regardless of immunization route or adjuvant used. The cross-reactive antigens were identified using immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry, and subsequent immunoblotting. We determined that B. pertussis GroEL and OmpA present in the B. pertussis whole cell vaccine led to production of antibodies against P. aeruginosa GroEL and OprF, respectively. Finally, we showed that recombinant B. pertussis OmpA was sufficient to induce protection against P. aeruginosa acute murine pneumonia. This study highlights the potential for use of B. pertussis OmpA as a vaccine antigen for prevention of P. aeruginosa infection, and the potential of broadly protective antigens for vaccine development.

Antibody production in mice requires neither vitamin D, nor the vitamin D receptor

The vitamin D receptor as well as its ligand have been localized to various immune tissues and cells. These observations have led researchers to hypothesize a role for vitamin D in the immune system. However, a specific role for vitamin D in immunity has yet to be clearly delineated. The work in this report was undertaken to determine if mounting an antibody response is altered in the face of vitamin D-deficiency or when the signaling pathway is eliminated by removal of the nuclear receptor. This investigation provides direct evidence vitamin D is not necessary for producing antibodies, a process paramount for optimal attack against many foreign organisms. The idea that vitamin D plays a significant role in immunity has been proposed repeatedly for many years. To address this important idea we have carried out studies in mice to determine if vitamin D plays a significant role in antibody production. Two animal models were utilized: mice depleted of vitamin D and mice devoid of the vitamin D receptor. Further, a possible role of hypocalcemia resulting from vitamin D deficiency in antibody production was determined. Neither the absence of vitamin D or the vitamin D receptor nor hypocalcemia affected the ability of mice to mount an antibody response to an antigen challenge. Thus, we found no evidence that vitamin D or normal serum calcium is required for this major form of immunity.

Discovery of vimseltinib (DCC-3014), a highly selective CSF1R switch-control kinase inhibitor, in clinical development for the treatment of Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor (TGCT)

Based on knowledge of kinase switch-control inhibition and using a combination of structure-based drug design and standard medicinal chemistry principles, we identified a novel series of dihydropyrimidone-based CSF1R kinase inhibitors displaying exquisite selectivity for CSF1R versus a large panel of kinases and non-kinase protein targets. Starting with lead compound 3, an SAR optimization campaign led to the discovery of vimseltinib (DCC-3014; compound 20) currently undergoing clinical evaluation for the treatment of Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor (TGCT), a locally aggressive benign tumor associated with substantial morbidity. 2021 Elsevier ltd. All rights reserved.

Distinct immune signature predicts progression of vestibular schwannoma and unveils a possible viral etiology

BACKGROUND

The management of sub-totally resected sporadic vestibular schwannoma (VS) may include observation, re-resection or irradiation. Identifying the optimal choice can be difficult due to the disease's variable progression rate. We aimed to define an immune signature and associated transcriptomic fingerprint characteristic of rapidly-progressing VS to elucidate the underpinnings of rapidly progressing VS and identify a prognostic model for determining rate of progression.

METHODS

We used multiplex immunofluorescence to characterize the immune microenvironment in 17 patients with sporadic VS treated with subtotal surgical resection alone. Transcriptomic analysis revealed differentially-expressed genes and dysregulated pathways when comparing rapidly-progressing VS to slowly or non-progressing VS.

RESULTS

Rapidly progressing VS was distinctly enriched in CD4⁺, CD8⁺, CD20⁺, and CD68⁺ immune cells. RNA data indicated the upregulation of anti-viral innate immune response and T-cell senescence. K - Top Scoring Pair analysis identified 6 pairs of immunosenescence-related genes (CD38-KDR, CD22-STAT5A, APCS-CXCR6, MADCAM1-MPL, IL6-NFATC3, and CXCL2-TLR6) that had high sensitivity (100%) and specificity (78%) for identifying rapid VS progression.

CONCLUSION

Rapid progression of residual vestibular schwannoma following subtotal surgical resection has an underlying immune etiology that may be virally originating; and despite an abundant adaptive immune response, T-cell immunosenescence may be associated with rapid progression of VS. These findings provide a rationale for clinical trials evaluating immunotherapy in patients with rapidly progressing VS.

A LILRB1 variant with a decreased ability to phosphorylate SHP-1 leads to autoimmune diseases

Inborn errors of immunity are known to cause not only immunodeficiencies and allergies but also autoimmunity. Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B1 (LILRB1) is a receptor on leukocytes playing a role in regulating immune responses. No phenotypes have been reported to be caused by germline mutations in LILRB1. We aimed to identify the causative variant in a three-generation family with nine members suffering from one of the three autoimmune diseases—Graves’ disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, or systemic lupus erythematosus. Whole-genome linkage study revealed a locus on chromosome 19q13.4 with the maximum LOD score of 2.71. Whole-exome sequencing identified a heterozygous missense variant, c.479G > A (p. G160E) in LILRB1, located within the chromosomal-linked region, in all nine affected members. The variant has never been previously reported. Jurkat cells transfected with the mutant LILRB1, compared with those with the wild-type LILRB1, showed decreased phosphorylation of both LILRB1 and its downstream protein, SHP-1. Flow cytometry was used to study immunophenotype and revealed that LILRB1 was significantly lower on the surface of activated regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg) cells of patients. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed substantially increased M1-like monocytes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of affected individuals. This study, for the first time, implicates LILRB1 as a new disease gene for autoimmunity.

Immunotherapy in soft tissue and bone sarcoma: unraveling the barriers to effectiveness

Sarcomas are uncommon malignancies of mesenchymal origin that can arise throughout the human lifespan, at any part of the body. Surgery remains the optimal treatment modality whilst response to conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, is minimal. Immunotherapy has emerged as a novel approach to treat different cancer types but efficacy in soft tissue sarcoma and bone sarcoma is limited to distinct subtypes. Growing evidence shows that cancer-stroma cell interactions and their microenvironment play a key role in the effectiveness of immunotherapy. However, the pathophysiological and immunological properties of the sarcoma tumor microenvironment in relation to immunotherapy advances, has not been broadly reviewed. Here, we provide an up-to-date overview of the different immunotherapy modalities as potential treatments for sarcoma, identify barriers posed by the sarcoma microenvironment to immunotherapy, highlight their relevance for impeding effectiveness, and suggest mechanisms to overcome these barriers.

Vitamin D and the Ability to Produce 1,25(OH)2D Are Critical for Protection from Viral Infection of the Lungs

Vitamin D supplementation is linked to improved outcomes from respiratory virus infection, and the COVID-19 pandemic renewed interest in understanding the potential role of vitamin D in protecting the lung from viral infections. Therefore, we evaluated the role of vitamin D using animal models of pandemic H1N1 influenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In mice, dietary-induced vitamin D deficiency resulted in lung inflammation that was present prior to infection. Vitamin D sufficient (D+) and deficient (D-) wildtype (WT) and D+ and D- Cyp27B1 (Cyp) knockout (KO, cannot produce 1,25(OH)2D) mice were infected with pandemic H1N1. D- WT, D+ Cyp KO, and D- Cyp KO mice all exhibited significantly reduced survival compared to D+ WT mice. Importantly, survival was not the result of reduced viral replication, as influenza M gene expression in the lungs was similar for all animals. Based on these findings, additional experiments were performed using the mouse and hamster models of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In these studies, high dose vitamin D supplementation reduced lung inflammation in mice but not hamsters. A trend to faster weight recovery was observed in 1,25(OH)2D treated mice that survived SARS-CoV-2 infection. There was no effect of vitamin D on SARS-CoV-2 N gene expression in the lung of either mice or hamsters. Therefore, vitamin D deficiency enhanced disease severity, while vitamin D sufficiency/supplementation reduced inflammation following infections with H1N1 influenza and SARS-CoV-2.

Whole human genome 5'-mC methylation analysis using long read nanopore sequencing

Methylation microarray and bisulphite sequencing are often used to study 5'-methylcytosine (5'-mC) modification of CpG dinucleotides in the human genome. Although both technologies produce trustworthy results, the evaluation of the methylation status of CpG sites suffers from the potential side effects of DNA modification by bisulphite and/or the ambiguity of mapping short reads in repetitive and highly homologous genomic regions, respectively. Nanopore sequencing is an attractive alternative for the study of 5'-mC since it allows sequencing of native DNA molecules, whereas the long reads produced by this technology help to increase the resolution of those genomic regions. In this work, we show that nanopore sequencing with 10X coverage depth, using DNA from a human cell line, produces 5'-mC methylation frequencies consistent with those obtained by 450k microarray, digital restriction enzyme analysis of methylation, and reduced representation bisulphite sequencing. High correlation between methylation frequencies obtained by nanopore sequencing and the other methodologies was also noticeable in either low or high GC content regions, including CpG islands and transcription start sites. We also showed that a minimum of five reads per CpG yields strong correlations (>0.89) in replicate nanopore sequencing runs and an almost uniform linearity of the methylation frequency variation between zero and one. Furthermore, nanopore sequencing was able to correctly display methylation frequency patterns based on genomic annotations of CpG regions. These results demonstrate that nanopore sequencing is a fast, robust, and reliable approach to the study of 5'-mC in the human genome with low coverage depth.

Immunological imbalance in microcephalic children with congenital Zika virus syndrome

Microcephalic children due congenital Zika virus syndrome (CZS) present neurological symptoms already well described. However, several other alterations can also be observed. Here, we aimed to evaluate the immune system of microcephaly CZS children. We showed that these patients have enlarged thymus, spleen and cervical lymph nodes, analysed by ultrasound and compared to the reference values for healthy children. In the periphery, they have an increase in eosinophil count and morphological alterations as hypersegmented neutrophils and atypical lymphocytes, even in the absence of urinary tract infections, parasitological infections or other current symptomatic infections. Microcephalic children due CZS also have high levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5 and type I IFNs, compared to healthy controls. In addition, this population showed a deficient cellular immune memory as demonstrated by the low reactivity to the tuberculin skin test even though they had been vaccinated with BCG less than 2 years before the challenge with the PPD. Together, our data demonstrate for the first time that CZS can cause alterations in primary and secondary lymphoid organs and also alters the morphology and functionality of the immune system cells, which broadens the spectrum of CZS symptoms. This knowledge may assist the development of specific therapeutic and more efficient vaccination schemes for this population of patients.

Time series analysis of the air pollution around Ploiesti oil refining complex, one of the most polluted regions in Romania

Refineries and petrochemical industries are known to be the principal sources of emissions for a number of air pollutants, such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), greenhouse gases and particulate matter, which negatively affect the air quality. The primary goal of this research was the time series analysis of PM_2.5, PM₁₀, As, Cd, Ni, Pb, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, o-xylene, m-xylene, p-xylene, CO, NO, NO₂, NO_x, SO₂ and O₃ over an eleven-year period (2009-2019) and the connection between air pollution and meteorological parameters (air temperature, precipitation quantity and relative humidity). Regarding the pollution level of the major pollutants, the minimum pollution levels, except SO₂ and O₃, were recorded during warmer periods, meanwhile increased levels, were detected during the cold period (in winter). The air pollutants' concentration and distribution are affected by meteorological parameters, such as wind speed and direction, rainfall or even relative humidity. Therefore, the highest concentrations in the winter season were 1.25 times higher than in autumn, 1.3 times higher than the average annual value, 1.57 times higher than in spring and 1.79 times higher than in summer. Monthly variation of O₃ showed lower concentration during winter (27.62 µg/m³) and higher in summer (46.42 µg/m³). Based on the statistical analysis, a significant Spearman correlation was detected between the studied air pollutants and meteorological parameters, and according to the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis, some common sources were also detected.

Tumour-infiltrating B cells: immunological mechanisms, clinical impact and therapeutic opportunities

Although immunotherapy research to date has focused largely on T cells, there is mounting evidence that tumour-infiltrating B cells and plasma cells (collectively referred to as tumour-infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIL-Bs)) have a crucial, synergistic role in tumour control. In many cancers, TIL-Bs have demonstrated strong predictive and prognostic significance in the context of both standard treatments and immune checkpoint blockade, offering the prospect of new therapeutic opportunities that leverage their unique immunological properties. Drawing insights from autoimmunity, we review the molecular phenotypes, architectural contexts, antigen specificities, effector mechanisms and regulatory pathways relevant to TIL-Bs in human cancer. Although the field is young, the emerging picture is that TIL-Bs promote antitumour immunity through their unique mode of antigen presentation to T cells; their role in assembling and perpetuating immunologically 'hot' tumour microenvironments involving T cells, myeloid cells and natural killer cells; and their potential to combat immune editing and tumour heterogeneity through the easing of self-tolerance mechanisms. We end by discussing the most promising approaches to enhance TIL-B responses in concert with other immune cell subsets to extend the reach, potency and durability of cancer immunotherapy.

The SKBR3 cell-membrane proteome reveals telltales of aberrant cancer cell proliferation and targets for precision medicine applications

The plasma membrane proteome resides at the interface between the extra- and intra-cellular environment and through its various roles in signal transduction, immune recognition, nutrient transport, and cell-cell/cell-matrix interactions plays an absolutely critical role in determining the fate of a cell. Our work was aimed at exploring the cell-membrane proteome of a HER2+ breast-cancer cell line (SKBR3) to identify triggers responsible for uncontrolled cell proliferation and intrinsic resources that enable detection and therapeutic interventions. To mimic environmental conditions that enable cancer cells to evolve adaptation/survival traits, cell culture was performed under serum-rich and serum-deprived conditions. Proteomic analysis enabled the identification of ~ 2000 cell-membrane proteins. Classification into proteins with receptor/enzymatic activity, CD antigens, transporters, and cell adhesion/junction proteins uncovered overlapping roles in processes that drive cell growth, apoptosis, differentiation, immune response, adhesion and migration, as well as alternate pathways for proliferation. The large number of tumor markers (> 50) and putative drug targets (> 100) exposed a vast potential for yet unexplored detection and targeting opportunities, whereas the presence of 15 antigen immunological markers enabled an assessment of epithelial, mesenchymal or stemness characteristics. Serum-starved cells displayed altered processes related to mitochondrial OXPHOS/ATP synthesis, protein folding and localization, while serum-treated cells exhibited attributes that support tissue invasion and metastasis. Altogether, our findings advance the understanding of the biological triggers that sustain aberrant cancer cell proliferation, survival and development of resistance to therapeutic drugs, and reveal vast innate opportunities for guiding immunological profiling and precision medicine applications aimed at target selection or drug discovery.

Fatty acids role in multiple sclerosis as "metabokines"

Multiple sclerosis (MS), as an autoimmune neurological disease with both genetic and environmental contribution, still lacks effective treatment options among progressive patients, highlighting the need to re-evaluate disease innate properties in search for novel therapeutic targets. Fatty acids (FA) and MS bear an interesting intimate connection. FA and FA metabolism are highly associated with autoimmunity, as the diet-derived circulatory and tissue-resident FAs level and composition can modulate immune cells polarization, differentiation and function, suggesting their broad regulatory role as “metabokines”. In addition, FAs are indeed protective factors for blood–brain barrier integrity, crucial contributors of central nervous system (CNS) chronic inflammation and progressive degeneration, as well as important materials for remyelination. The remaining area of ambiguity requires further exploration into this arena to validate the existed phenomenon, develop novel therapies, and confirm the safety and efficacy of therapeutic intervention targeting FA metabolism.

Vitamin D3 Nutritional Status Affects Gut Health of Salmonella-Challenged Laying Hens

Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (SE) is one of the most common pathogens associated with poultry health and foodborne Salmonellosis worldwide. The gut plays a pivotal role in inhibiting SE transintestinal transmission and contaminating poultry products. The nutritional status of vitamin D (VD) is involved in gut health apart from bone health. However, the impact of VD₃ nutritional status on the gut health of Salmonella-challenged hens is rarely investigated. This study investigated the impact and possible mechanisms of VD₃ nutritional status on the gut health of hens challenged with SE. Hens were fed basal diets with either 0 (deficient) or 3000 IU (sufficient) VD₃/kg of diet, respectively. After 10 weeks of feeding, half of the hens were orally inoculated with either SE (1 × 10⁹ CFU /bird). Results indicated that VD₃ sufficiency reversed the disruptive effects on the laying performance of hens caused by Salmonella challenge or VD₃ insufficiency by promoting VD₃ metabolism. In addition, VD₃ sufficiency ameliorated gut injury induced by either Salmonella or VD₃ deficiency, shown by reducing Salmonella load and histopathological scores, suppressing TLR4-mediated inflammatory responses, and increasing expression of TJs along with decreasing pro-apoptotic protein expression and the number of TUNEL-positive cells in the jejunum. Besides, VD₃ enriched the abundance of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus and Bacilli, and restored the balance of gut microflora. Collectively, dietary VD₃ sufficient supplementation could alleviate Salmonella or VD₃ deficiency-induced intestinal damage of hens via modulating intestinal immune, barrier function, apoptosis along with gut microbiota composition, revealing that VD₃ could act as a novel nutritional strategy defending Salmonella invasion in hens.

Role of Bile Acids and Nuclear Receptors in Acupuncture in Improving Crohn's Disease

Nuclear receptors (NRs) are ligand-dependent transcription factors that regulate the transcription of target genes. Bile acids (BAs) can be used as effector molecules to regulate physiological processes in the gut, and NRs are important receptors for bile acid signaling. Relevant studies have shown that NRs are closely related to the occurrence of Crohn's disease (CD). Although the mechanism of NRs in CD has not been clarified completely, growing evidence shows that NRs play an important role in regulating intestinal immunity, mucosal barrier, and intestinal flora. NRs can participate in the progress of CD by mediating inflammation, immunity, and autophagy. As the important parts of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy, acupuncture and moxibustion in the treatment of CD curative mechanism can get a lot of research support. At the same time, acupuncture and moxibustion can regulate the changes of related NRs. Therefore, to explore whether acupuncture can regulate BA circulation and NRs expression and then participate in the disease progression of CD, a new theoretical basis for acupuncture treatment of CD is provided.

Exhaustion of CAR T cells: potential causes and solutions

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has attracted attention for its promising therapeutic effects on hematological malignancies. However, there are problems such as relapse during long-term follow-up and limited effect on solid tumors with this therapy. Exhaustion, which impairs in vivo persistence and killing activity of CAR T cells, is one of the causes of these issues. Depending on their structure of extracellular portion, some CARs induce tonic signals in the absence of ligand stimulation and induce exhaustion phenotype in CAR T cells. Analysis of these self-activating CARs is expected to provide key information for understanding and resolving CAR T cell exhaustion. In this review, we introduced examples of self-activating CARs and summarized their phenotypes to figure out how CAR T cell exhaustion occurs. Further, we aimed to review promising solutions to the CAR T cell exhaustion that hampers generalized application of CAR T cell therapy.

Combined treatment of graft versus host disease using donor regulatory T cells and ruxolitinib

Donor derived regulatory T lymphocytes and the JAK1/2 kinase inhibitor ruxolitinib are currently being evaluated as therapeutic options in the treatment of chronic graft versus host disease (cGvHD). In this work, we aimed to determine if the combined use of both agents can exert a synergistic effect in the treatment of GvHD. For this purpose, we studied the effect of this combination both in vitro and in a GvHD mouse model. Our results show that ruxolitinib favors the ratio of thymic regulatory T cells to conventional T cells in culture, without affecting the suppressive capacity of these Treg. The combination of ruxolitinib with Treg showed a higher efficacy as compared to each single treatment alone in our GvHD mouse model in terms of GvHD incidence, severity and survival without hampering graft versus leukemia effect. This beneficial effect correlated with the detection in the bone marrow of recipient mice of the infused donor allogeneic Treg after the adoptive transfer.

The role of γδ T cells in the interaction between commensal and pathogenic bacteria in the intestinal mucosa

The intestinal mucosa is an important structure involved in resistance to pathogen infection. It is mainly composed of four barriers, which have different but interrelated functions. Pathogenic bacteria can damage these intestinal mucosal barriers. Here, we mainly review the mechanisms of pathogen damage to biological barriers. Most γδ T cells are located on the surface of the intestinal mucosa, with the ability to migrate and engage in crosstalk with microorganisms. Commensal bacteria are involved in the activation and migration of γδ T cells to monitor the invasion of pathogens. Pathogen invasion alters the migration pattern of γδ T cells. γδ T cells accelerate pathogen clearance and limit opportunistic invasion of commensal bacteria. By discussing these interactions among γδ T cells, commensal bacteria and pathogenic bacteria, we suggest that γδ T cells may link the interactions between commensal bacteria and pathogenic bacteria.

Which cell death modality wins the contest for photodynamic therapy of cancer?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) was discovered more than 100 years ago. Since then, many protocols and agents for PDT have been proposed for the treatment of several types of cancer. Traditionally, cell death induced by PDT was categorized into three types: apoptosis, cell death associated with autophagy, and necrosis. However, with the discovery of several other regulated cell death modalities in recent years, it has become clear that this is a rather simple understanding of the mechanisms of action of PDT. New observations revealed that cancer cells exposed to PDT can pass through various non-conventional cell death pathways, such as paraptosis, parthanatos, mitotic catastrophe, pyroptosis, necroptosis, and ferroptosis. Nowadays, immunogenic cell death (ICD) has become one of the most promising ways to eradicate tumor cells by activation of the T-cell adaptive immune response and induction of long-term immunological memory. ICD can be triggered by many anti-cancer treatment methods, including PDT. In this review, we critically discuss recent findings on the non-conventional cell death mechanisms triggered by PDT. Next, we emphasize the role and contribution of ICD in these PDT-induced non-conventional cell death modalities. Finally, we discuss the obstacles and propose several areas of research that will help to overcome these challenges and lead to the development of highly effective anti-cancer therapy based on PDT.

Infiltrating natural killer cells bind, lyse and increase chemotherapy efficacy in glioblastoma stem-like tumorospheres

Glioblastomas remain the most lethal primary brain tumors. Natural killer (NK) cell-based therapy is a promising immunotherapeutic strategy in the treatment of glioblastomas, since these cells can select and lyse therapy-resistant glioblastoma stem-like cells (GSLCs). Immunotherapy with super-charged NK cells has a potential as antitumor approach since we found their efficiency to kill patient-derived GSLCs in 2D and 3D models, potentially reversing the immunosuppression also seen in the patients. In addition to their potent cytotoxicity, NK cells secrete IFN-γ, upregulate GSLC surface expression of CD54 and MHC class I and increase sensitivity of GSLCs to chemotherapeutic drugs. Moreover, NK cell localization in peri-vascular regions in glioblastoma tissues and their close contact with GSLCs in tumorospheres suggests their ability to infiltrate glioblastoma tumors and target GSLCs. Due to GSLC heterogeneity and plasticity in regards to their stage of differentiation personalized immunotherapeutic strategies should be designed to effectively target glioblastomas.

“Super-charged” NK cells kill patient-derived glioblastoma stem-like cells (GSLCs) in 2D and 3D tumor models, secrete IFN-γ and upregulate the surface expression of CD54 and MHC class I in GSLCs.

Low n-6/n-3 Gestation and Lactation Diets Influence Early Performance, Muscle and Adipose Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Content and Deposition, and Relative Abundance of Proteins in Suckling Piglets

Elevated omega-6 (n-6) and omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) ratios in swine diets can potentially impose a higher risk of inflammatory and metabolic diseases in swine. A low ratio between the two omega PUFAs has beneficial effects on sows' and piglets' production performance and immunity status. At present, there are few studies on how sow nutrition directly affects the protein and fat deposition in suckling piglets. Two groups of sows were fed diets with high or low n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated ratios of 13:1 (SOY) and 4:1 (LIN), respectively, during gestation and lactation. Longissimus dorsi muscle and adipose tissue from newborn piglets, nourished only with sow's milk, were subjected to fatty acid profiling by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and to proteomics assays based on nano-liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (nLC-HRMS). Fatty acid profiles on both muscle and adipose tissues resembled the magnitude of the differences between fatty acid across diets. Proteomic analysis revealed overabundance of 4 muscle and 11 adipose tissue proteins in SOY compared to LIN in both piglet tissues. The detected overabundance of haptoglobin, an acute-phase protein, and the stimulation of protein-coding genes and proteins related to the innate immune response and acute inflammatory response could be associated with the pro-inflammatory role of n-6 PUFAs.

Bioengineered angiotensin-converting-enzyme-2: a potential therapeutic option against SARS-CoV-2 infection

The recombinant soluble human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (rshACE2) is a promising therapy against SARS-CoV-2 infection, but it has some drawbacks that reduce the success of its clinical applications. The bioengineered ACE2 (Tag-sACE2 and probiotic-ACE2) as a way may overcome its therapeutic limitations against ongoing current pandemic.

The Role of Vitamin D in Immune System and Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a nonspecific inflammatory disease that includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). The pathogenesis of IBD is not fully understood but is most reported associated with immune dysregulation, dysbacteriosis, genetic susceptibility, and environmental risk factors. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for the human body, and it not only regulates bone metabolism but also the immune system, the intestinal microbiota and barrier. Vitamin D insufficiency is common in IBD patients, and the abnormal low levels of vitamin D are highly correlated with disease activity, treatment response, and risk of relapse of IBD. Accumulating evidence supports the protective role of vitamin D in IBD through regulating the adaptive and innate immunity, maintaining the intestinal barrier and balancing the gut microbiota. This report aims to provide a broad overview of the role vitamin D in the immune system, especially in the pathogenesis and treatment of IBD, and its possible role in predicting relapse.

The Role of the Adipokine Resistin in the Pathogenesis and Progression of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Obesity is a civilization disease associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some malignancies. The results concerning the relationship between obesity and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) are inconclusive. The higher incidence of neoplasms in obese subjects has led to the development of the adipokine hypothesis. Omental adipocyte cells interact with cancer cells, promoting their migration and metastasis via the secretion of adipokines, growth factors, and hormones. One of the adipokines is resistin. It was shown in vitro that resistin stimulates the growth and differentiation of ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, it increases the level of angiogenesis factors, e.g., matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and vascular epithelial growth factor (VEGF). Additionally, resistin induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness in EOC cell lines. A positive correlation has been shown between a higher level of resistin expression and the stage of histological differentiation of EOC or the occurrence of lymph node metastases. In addition, the overexpression of resistin has been found to act as an independent factor determining disease-free survival as well as overall survival in EOC patients. Growing evidence supports the finding that resistin plays an important role in some mechanisms leading to the progression of EOC, though this issue still requires further research.

The cardioprotective effects of perindopril in a model of polymicrobial sepsis: The role of radical oxygen species and the inflammation pathway

Mortality rates associated with myocardial dysfunction due to sepsis and septic shock are generally high across the world. The present study focused on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of perindopril (PER) for the purpose of preventing the adverse effects of sepsis on the myocardium and developing new alternatives in treatment. The control group received only saline solution via the oral route for 4 days. The second group underwent cecal ligation puncture (CLP), and the third underwent CLP and received PER (2 mg/kg). Rats in the third group received 2 mg/kg PER per oral (p.o.) from 4 days before induction of sepsis. Thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS), total thiol (-SH), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), IL-6, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB/p65) levels increased in the CLP groups. In contrast, PER (2 mg/kg) decreased the levels of biochemical parameters other than total-SH and decreased 8-OHdG, NF-κB/p65 immunopositivity in rat heart tissues. The data from this study show that impairment of the oxidant/antioxidant balance and inflammatory cytokine levels in favor of inflammation in heart tissue under septic conditions results in severe tissue damage. PER administration before sepsis was shown to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by reducing these effects. This in turn increased the importance of PER as new evidence of its protective effects in heart tissue.

Transcriptional Profiling of the Small Intestine and the Colon Reveals Modulation of Gut Infection with Citrobacter rodentium According to the Vitamin A Status

Vitamin A (VA) deficiency and diarrheal diseases are both serious public health issues worldwide. VA deficiency is associated with impaired intestinal barrier function and increased risk of mucosal infection-related mortality. The bioactive form of VA, retinoic acid, is a well-known regulator of mucosal integrity. Using Citrobacter rodentium-infected mice as a model for diarrheal diseases in humans, previous studies showed that VA-deficient (VAD) mice failed to clear C. rodentium as compared to their VA-sufficient (VAS) counterparts. However, the distinct intestinal gene responses that are dependent on the host’s VA status still need to be discovered. The mRNAs extracted from the small intestine (SI) and the colon were sequenced and analyzed on three levels: differential gene expression, enrichment, and co-expression. C. rodentium infection interacted differentially with VA status to alter colon gene expression. Novel functional categories downregulated by this pathogen were identified, highlighted by genes related to the metabolism of VA, vitamin D, and ion transport, including improper upregulation of Cl⁻ secretion and disrupted HCO₃⁻ metabolism. Our results suggest that derangement of micronutrient metabolism and ion transport, together with the compromised immune responses in VAD hosts, may be responsible for the higher mortality to C. rodentium under conditions of inadequate VA.

Efficient human-like antibody repertoire and hybridoma production in trans-chromosomic mice carrying megabase-sized human immunoglobulin loci

Trans-chromosomic (Tc) mice carrying mini-chromosomes with megabase-sized human immunoglobulin (Ig) loci have contributed to the development of fully human therapeutic monoclonal antibodies, but mitotic instability of human mini-chromosomes in mice may limit the efficiency of hybridoma production. Here, we establish human antibody-producing Tc mice (TC-mAb mice) that stably maintain a mouse-derived, engineered chromosome containing the entire human Ig heavy and kappa chain loci in a mouse Ig-knockout background. Comprehensive, high-throughput DNA sequencing shows that the human Ig repertoire, including variable gene usage, is well recapitulated in TC-mAb mice. Despite slightly altered B cell development and a delayed immune response, TC-mAb mice have more subsets of antigen-specific plasmablast and plasma cells than wild-type mice, leading to efficient hybridoma production. Our results thus suggest that TC-mAb mice offer a valuable platform for obtaining fully human therapeutic antibodies, and a useful model for elucidating the regulation of human Ig repertoire formation.

Trans-chromosomic (Tc) mice have helped the development of therapeutic antibodies, but chromosome instability limits its application. Here the authors develop a new line of Tc mice with full human Ig heavy and kappa loci integrated into the mouse artificial chromosome for stable passage, and confirm efficient generation of B cell responses and specific antibodies.

Inflammasome involvement in CS-induced damage in HaCaT keratinocytes

Cigarette smoke (CS) alters cutaneous biological processes such as redox homeostasis and inflammation response that might be involved in promoting skin inflammatory conditions. Exposure to CS has also been linked to a destabilization of the NLRP3 inflammasome in pollution target tissues such as the lung epithelium, resulting in a more vulnerable immunological response to several exogenous and endogenous stimuli related to oxidative stress. Thus, CS has an adverse effect on host defense, increasing the susceptibility to develop lung infections and pathologies. In the skin, another direct target of pollution, inflammasome disorders have been linked to an increasing number of diseases such as melanoma, psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, and acne, all conditions that have been connected directly or indirectly to pollution exposure. The inflammasome machinery is an important innate immune sensor in human keratinocytes. However, the role of CS in the NLRP1 and NLRP3 inflammasome in the cutaneous barrier has still not been investigated. In the present study, we were able to determine in keratinocytes exposed to CS an increased oxidative damage evaluated by 4-HNE protein adduct and carbonyl formation. Of note is that, while CS inhibited NLRP3 activation, it was able to activate NLRP1, leading to an increased secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. This study highlights the importance of the inflammasome machinery in CS that more in general, in pollution, affects cutaneous tissues and the important cross-talk between different members of the NLRP inflammasome family.

Effectiveness of NLRP3 Inhibitor as a Non-Hormonal Treatment for ovarian endometriosis

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a complex syndrome characterized by an estrogen-dependent chronic inflammatory process that affects 10% of women of reproductive age. Ovarian endometriosis (OE) is the most common lesion in endometriosis and may cause infertility, in addition to dysmenorrhea. Hormonal treatments, which are the conventional treatment methods for endometriosis, suppress ovulation and hence are not compatible with fertility. The inflammasome is a complex that includes Nod-like receptor (NLR) family proteins, which sense pathogen-associated molecular patterns and homeostasis-altering molecular processes. It has been reported that the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat, and pyrin domain-containing (NLRP) 3 inflammasome, which contributes to the activation of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), might be related to the progression of endometriosis. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate non-hormonal therapies for OE, such as inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome.

METHODS

The expression of NLRP3 was measured in the eutopic endometrium (EM) of patients with and without endometriosis and OE samples, as well as stromal cells derived from the endometrium of patients with and without endometriosis and OE samples (endometrial stromal cells with endometriosis [ESCs] and cyst-derived stromal cells [CSCs]). The effects of an NLRP3 inhibitor (MCC950) on ESCs and CSCs survival and IL-1β production were evaluated. We then administered MCC950 to a murine model of OE to evaluate its effects on OE lesions and ovarian function.

RESULTS

NLRP3 gene and protein expression levels were higher in OE and CSCs than in EM and ESCs, respectively. MCC950 treatment significantly reduced the survival of CSCs, but not that of ESCs. Moreover, MCC950 treatment reduced the co-localization of NLRP3 and IL-1β in CSCs, as well as IL-1β concentrations in CSCs supernatants. In the murine model, MCC950 treatment reduced OE lesion size compared to phosphate-buffered saline treatment (89 ± 15 vs. 49 ± 9.3 mm3 per ovary; P < 0.05). In the MCC950-treated group, IL-1β and Ki67 levels in the OE-associated epithelia were reduced along with the oxidative stress markers of granulosa cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicated that NLRP3/IL-1β is involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and that NLRP3 inhibitors may be useful for suppressing OE and improving the function of ovaries with endometriosis.

Shedding light on biological sex differences and microbiota-gut-brain axis: a comprehensive review of its roles in neuropsychiatric disorders

Women and men are suggested to have differences in vulnerability to neuropsychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), schizophrenia, eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa, neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease. Genetic factors and sex hormones are apparently the main mediators of these differences. Recent evidence uncovers that reciprocal interactions between sex-related features (e.g., sex hormones and sex differences in the brain) and gut microbiota could play a role in the development of neuropsychiatric disorders via influencing the gut–brain axis. It is increasingly evident that sex–microbiota–brain interactions take part in the occurrence of neurologic and psychiatric disorders. Accordingly, integrating the existing evidence might help to enlighten the fundamental roles of these interactions in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders. In addition, an increased understanding of the biological sex differences on the microbiota–brain may lead to advances in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders and increase the potential for precision medicine. This review discusses the effects of sex differences on the brain and gut microbiota and the putative underlying mechanisms of action. Additionally, we discuss the consequences of interactions between sex differences and gut microbiota on the emergence of particular neuropsychiatric disorders.

The human microbiome is a unique set of organisms affecting health via the gut–brain axis.

Neuropsychiatric disorders, eating disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neurodegenerative disorders are regulated by the microbiota–gut–brain axis in a sex-specific manner.

Understanding the role of the microbiota–gut–brain axis and its sex differences in various diseases can lead to better therapeutic methods.

Inflammation and neutrophil extracellular traps in cerebral cavernous malformation

Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) is a brain vascular disease with various neurological symptoms. In this study, we describe the inflammatory profile in CCM and show for the first time the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in rodents and humans with CCM. Through RNA-seq analysis of cerebellum endothelial cells from wild-type mice and mice with an endothelial cell-specific ablation of the Ccm3 gene (Ccm3^iECKO), we show that endothelial cells from Ccm3^iECKO mice have an increased expression of inflammation-related genes. These genes encode proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, as well as adhesion molecules, which promote recruitment of inflammatory and immune cells. Similarly, immunoassays showed elevated levels of these cytokines and chemokines in the cerebellum of the Ccm3^iECKO mice. Consistently, both flow cytometry and immunofluorescence analysis showed infiltration of different subsets of leukocytes into the CCM lesions. Neutrophils, which are known to fight against infection through different strategies, including the formation of NETs, represented the leukocyte subset within the most pronounced increase in CCM. Here, we detected elevated levels of NETs in the blood and the deposition of NETs in the cerebral cavernomas of Ccm3^iECKO mice. Degradation of NETs by DNase I treatment improved the vascular barrier. The deposition of NETs in the cavernomas  of patients with CCM confirms the clinical relevance of NETs in CCM.