An angiogenic switch in macrophages involving synergy between Toll-like receptors 2, 4, 7, and 9 and adenosine A(2A) receptors

Adenosine receptors in wound healing, fibrosis and angiogenesis

Wound healing and tissue repair are critical processes, and adenosine, released from injured or ischemic tissues, plays an important role in promoting wound healing and tissue repair. Recent studies in genetically manipulated mice demonstrate that adenosine receptors are required for appropriate granulation tissue formation and in adequate wound healing. A(2A) and A(2B) adenosine receptors stimulate both of the critical functions in granulation tissue formation (i.e., new matrix production and angiogenesis), and the A(1) adenosine receptor (AR) may also contribute to new vessel formation. The effects of adenosine acting on these receptors is both direct and indirect, as AR activation suppresses antiangiogenic factor production by endothelial cells, promotes endothelial cell proliferation, and stimulates angiogenic factor production by endothelial cells and other cells present in the wound. Similarly, adenosine, acting at its receptors, stimulates collagen matrix formation directly. Like many other biological processes, AR-mediated promotion of tissue repair is critical for appropriate wound healing but may also contribute to pathogenic processes. Excessive tissue repair can lead to problems such as scarring and organ fibrosis and adenosine, and its receptors play a role in pathologic fibrosis as well. Here we review the evidence for the involvement of adenosine and its receptors in wound healing, tissue repair and fibrosis.

Comparison of immune cell recruitment and function in endometrium during development of epitheliochorial (pig) and hemochorial (mouse and human) placentas

The role of maternal immune cells in early implantation sites has received special attention from reproductive biologists because immune cells participate in tissue transplant rejection. During normal pregnancy, endometrial immune cells differ from those in blood by subset distribution and appear to be activated but non-destructive of conceptuses. The immune system evolved well before placental mammals. By comparing the regulation and functions of endometrial immune cells between species in two phylogenetic clades that model differently evolved placental types (pig (Sus scrofa) versus mouse (Mus musculus) and human (Homo sapiens)), we seek to understand how "non-self" trophoblast cells thrive in most pregnancies. Our studies suggest recruitment of specific immune cells to conceptus-associated endometrium and immune cell-promoted endometrial angiogenesis are of key importance for mammalian conceptus well-being.

Neutropenia with impaired immune response to Streptococcus pneumoniae in ceramide kinase-deficient mice

In mammals, ceramide kinase (CerK)-mediated phosphorylation of ceramide is the only known pathway to ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P), a recently identified signaling sphingolipid metabolite. To help delineate the roles of CerK and C1P, we knocked out the gene of CerK in BALB/c mice by homologous recombination. All in vitro as well as cell-based assays indicated that CerK activity is completely abolished in Cerk-/- mice. Labeling with radioactive orthophosphate showed a profound reduction in the levels of de novo C1P formed in Cerk-/- macrophages. Consistently, mass spectrometry analysis revealed a major contribution of CerK to the formation of C16-C1P. However, the significant residual C1P levels in Cerk-/- animals indicate that alternative routes to C1P exist. Furthermore, serum levels of proapoptotic ceramide in these animals were significantly increased while levels of dihydroceramide as the biosynthetic precursor were reduced. Previous literature pointed to a role of CerK or C1P in innate immune cell function. Using a variety of mechanistic and disease models, as well as primary cells, we found that macrophage- and mast cell-dependent readouts are barely affected in the absence of CerK. However, the number of neutrophils was strikingly reduced in blood and spleen of Cerk-/- animals. When tested in a model of fulminant pneumonia, Cerk-/- animals developed a more severe disease, lending support to a defect in neutrophil homeostasis following CerK ablation. These results identify ceramide kinase as a key regulator of C1P, dihydroceramide and ceramide levels, with important implications for neutrophil homeostasis and innate immunity regulation.

Melatonin decreases TLR3-mediated inflammatory factor expression via inhibition of NF-kappa B activation in respiratory syncytial virus-infected RAW264.7 macrophages

Double-stranded (ds) RNA has been identified as a ligand for Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3). Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a single-stranded RNA virus and a major respiratory pathogen and pneumovirus in human infants pathogenesis of which relies on early inflammatory and immune events of the host in response to RSV, could be recognized by TLR3 sensing viral dsRNA produced during replication. The downstream signaling pathway from TLR3 leads to activation of IFN regulatory factor (IRF)-3 and/or NF-kappaB and subsequent expression of numerous proinflammatory factors. Melatonin (MT) is an effective regulator of the immune system. To determine the molecular mechanisms responsible for the suppressive effect of MT on RSV infection, we analyzed signaling molecules involved in the TLR3-mediated activation of inflammatory factors in macrophages infected with RSV and the modulatory role of MT on these mediators. We report that RSV infection of RAW264.7 macrophages time-dependently stimulate the rapid activation of TLR3 and NF-kappaB, as well as subsequent NF-kappaB-dependent gene expression such as those encoding TNF-alpha and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Moreover, we demonstrate that MT decreased TLR3-mediated downstream gene expression in RSV-infected macrophages in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and that MT inhibition of NF-kappaB activity seemed to be the key event required to explain the reduction in inflammatory gene expression caused by MT. But MT did not influence TLR3 at either the protein or mRNA level or MyD88 transcription. These results could be related to the beneficial immunoregulatory role of MT in RSV-infected macrophages and address the possible therapeutic potential of this indoleamine in human RSV diseases.

Adenosine receptors in regulation of dendritic cell differentiation and function

Differentiation of functional dendritic cells (DCs) critically depends on the microenvironment. DCs differentiate in hypoxic tumor sites and inflamed or damaged tissue. Because local concentrations of adenosine reach high physiologically relevant levels in these conditions, we assessed the expression of adenosine receptors and the effect of their activation on differentiation of human monocytes and mouse peritoneal macrophages and hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) into myeloid DCs. Stimulation of adenosine receptors skews DC differentiation toward a distinct cell population characterized by expression of both DC and monocyte/macrophage cell surface markers. Pharmacologic analysis and experiments with cells from A(2B) adenosine receptor knockout mice identified A(2B) receptor as the mediator of adenosine effects on DCs. Unlike normal myeloid DCs, adenosine-differentiated DCs have impaired allostimulatory activity and express high levels of angiogenic, pro-inflammatory, immune suppressor, and tolerogenic factors, including VEGF, IL-8, IL-6, IL-10, COX-2, TGF-beta, and IDO. They promoted tumor growth if injected into tumors implanted in mice. Using adenosine desaminase knockout animals, we showed that DCs with proangiogenic phenotype are highly abundant under conditions associated with elevated levels of extracellular adenosine in vivo. Adenosine signaling through A(2B) receptor is an important factor of aberrant DC differentiation and generation of tolerogenic, angiogenic, and proinflammatory cells.

Effect of senescence on macrophage polarization and angiogenesis

There is mounting evidence that as the immune system ages, a progressive deterioration in normal function occurs. Termed immunosenescence, aging impacts both the innate and adaptive immune responses. This review discusses the age-related alterations in the innate immune system, with a specific focus on macrophages. The downstream effect of altered macrophage function on aberrant angiogenesis in the pathophysiology of age-related eye disease is also discussed.

The grateful dead: damage-associated molecular pattern molecules and reduction/oxidation regulate immunity

The response to pathogens and damage in plants and animals involves a series of carefully orchestrated, highly evolved, molecular mechanisms resulting in pathogen resistance and wound healing. In metazoans, damage- or pathogen-associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMPs, PAMPs) execute precise intracellular tasks and are also able to exert disparate functions when released into the extracellular space. The emergent consequence for both inflammation and wound healing of the abnormal extracellular persistence of these factors may underlie many clinical disorders. DAMPs/PAMPs are recognized by hereditable receptors including the Toll-like receptors, the NOD1-like receptors and retinoic-acid-inducible gene I-like receptors, as well as the receptor for advanced glycation end products. These host molecules 'sense' not only pathogens but also misfolded/glycated proteins or exposed hydrophobic portions of molecules, activating intracellular cascades that lead to an inflammatory response. Equally important are means to not only respond to these molecules but also to eradicate them. We have speculated that their destruction through oxidative mechanisms normally exerted by myeloid cells, such as neutrophils and eosinophils, or their persistence in the setting of pathologic extracellular reducing environments, maintained by exuberant necrotic cell death and/or oxidoreductases, represent important molecular means enabling chronic inflammatory states.

Immunological mechanisms affecting angiogenesis and their relation to porcine pregnancy success

Prenatal mortality due to loss of lymphocyte-promoted endometrial angiogenesis is being investigated as a major cause of litter reductions during pregnancy in pigs. This review discusses immune mechanisms influencing porcine endometrial angiogenesis as well as additional signalling molecules that may play important roles in the compromise of peri-implantation and mid-gestation fetal pig survival. These include dendritic cells, signalling molecules such as toll-like receptors, chemokines and ficolins. Together these cells and molecules regulate immune responses and, ideally, protect the mother and prevent immune-based conceptus losses. Dendritic cells were recently shown to be angiogenic. Their tolerogenic role at the maternal-fetal interface coupled with the ability to secrete and respond to angiogenic factors suggests that dendritic cells are the key coordinators of angiogenesis at the porcine maternal-fetal interface. Chemokines coordinate the localization of immune effector and endothelial cells. The balance between pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic chemokines is addressed in relation to conceptus viability. Ficolins, components of the lectin-mediated complement activation pathway, are used for self/non-self recognition. Together, these components of the immune system could regulate lymphocyte- and non-lymphocyte-promoted endometrial angiogenesis to determine conceptus survival.

Suppression of inflammatory and immune responses by the A(2A) adenosine receptor: an introduction

The purine nucleoside adenosine has been described as a 'retaliatory metabolite' by virtue of its ability to function in an autocrine manner to modify the activity of a range of cell types following its extracellular accumulation during cell stress or injury. These effects are largely protective and are triggered by the binding of adenosine to any of four G-protein-coupled adenosine receptors. Most of the anti-inflammatory effects of adenosine have been assigned to the adenosine A(2A) receptor subtype, which is expressed in many immune and inflammatory cells. In this brief article, we will outline the growing evidence to support the hypothesis that the development of agonists selective for the A(2A) receptor is an effective strategy for suppressing the exaggerated inflammatory responses associated with many diseases by virtue of the receptor's ability to inhibit multiple pro-inflammatory signalling cascades.

Wound healing is impaired in MyD88-deficient mice: a role for MyD88 in the regulation of wound healing by adenosine A2A receptors

Synergy between Toll-like receptor (TLR) and adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) signaling switches macrophages from production of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha to production of the angiogenic growth factor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We show in this study that this switch critically requires signaling through MyD88, IRAK4, and TRAF6. Macrophages from mice lacking MyD88 (MyD88(-/-)) or IRAK4 (IRAK4(-/-)) lacked responsiveness to TLR agonists and did not respond to A2AR agonists by expressing VEGF. Suppression of TRAF6 expression with siRNA in RAW264.7 macrophages also blocked their response to TLR and A2AR agonists. Excisional skin wounds in MyD88(-/-) mice healed at a markedly slower rate than wounds in wild-type MyD88(+/+) mice, showing delayed contraction, decreased and delayed granulation tissue formation, and reduced new blood vessel density. Although macrophages accumulated to higher levels in MyD88(-/-) wounds than in controls, expression of VEGF and HIF1-alpha mRNAs was elevated in MyD88(+/+) wounds. CGS21680, an A2AR agonist, promoted repair in MyD88(+/+) wounds and stimulated angiogenesis but had no significant effect on healing of MyD88(-/-) wounds. These results suggest that the synergistic interaction between TLR and A(2A)R signaling observed in vitro that switches macrophages from an inflammatory to an angiogenic phenotype also plays a role in wound healing in vivo.

Mechanisms of disease: Toll-like receptors in cardiovascular disease

The innate immune system detects highly conserved, relatively invariant structural motifs of pathogens. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have been identified as the primary innate immune receptors. TLRs distinguish between different patterns of pathogens and activate a rapid innate immune response; however, TLRs can also be activated by host-derived molecules. In addition to being expressed in immune cells, TLRs are expressed in other tissues, such as those of the cardiovascular system. TLRs could, therefore, be a key link between cardiovascular disease development and the immune system. Indeed, evidence that TLR activation contributes to the development and progression of atherosclerosis, cardiac dysfunction in sepsis, and congestive heart failure, is convincing. Although much has been learned about TLR activation in cellular components of the cardiovascular system, the role individual TLR family members have in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases and hence in clinical practice remains to be defined. Here we review the rapid progress that has been made in this field, which has improved our understanding of vascular as well as myocardial TLR function in basic and clinical science.

Role of A(2A) adenosine receptors in regulation of opsonized E. coli-induced macrophage function

Adenosine is a biologically active molecule that is formed at sites of metabolic stress associated with trauma and inflammation, and its systemic level reaches high concentrations in sepsis. We have recently shown that inactivation of A(2A) adenosine receptors decreases bacterial burden as well as IL-10, IL-6, and MIP-2 production in mice that were made septic by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Macrophages are important in both elimination of pathogens and cytokine production in sepsis. Therefore, in the present study, we questioned whether macrophages are responsible for the decreased bacterial load and cytokine production in A(2A) receptor-inactivated septic mice. We showed that A(2A) KO and WT peritoneal macrophages obtained from septic animals were equally effective in phagocytosing opsonized E. coli. IL-10 production induced by opsonized E. coli was decreased in macrophages obtained from septic A(2A) KO mice as compared to WT counterparts. In contrast, the release of IL-6 and MIP-2 induced by opsonized E. coli was higher in septic A(2A) KO macrophages than WT macrophages. These results suggest that peritoneal macrophages are not responsible for the decreased bacterial load and diminished MIP-2 and IL-6 production that are observed in septic A(2A) KO mice. In contrast, peritoneal macrophages may contribute to the suppressive effect of A(2A) receptor inactivation on IL-10 production during sepsis.

Activation of toll-like receptor 4 modulates vascular endothelial growth factor synthesis through prostacyclin-IP signaling

In this study, we show that activation of toll-like receptor (TLR)4 by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression, which results in prostaglandin (PG)I2 formation in macrophages. The LPS-stimulated COX-2 expression and PGI2 release were accompanied by production of the potent angiogenic cytokine, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and these effects were suppressed by NS-398, which is a COX-2 inhibitor. Direct addition of iloprost (an analogue of PGI2) for IP receptor also induced the production of VEGF, whereas DP, FP, and TP receptor agonists did not. Inhibition of IP protein expression by micro interfering RNA blocked LPS-induced VEGF production. Additionally, macrophages transiently caused Akt phosphorylation after stimulation with LPS, and inhibition of Akt phosphorylation blocked the production of VEGF and COX-2 expression in response to LPS. Overall, this study demonstrated that engagement of TLR4 with LPS induces production of PGI2 via Akt and generates VEGF through IP receptor.

Immune regulation by microvascular endothelial cells: directing innate and adaptive immunity, coagulation, and inflammation

An effective immune response depends not only on the proper activation, regulation, and function of immune cells, but also on their distribution and retention in diverse tissue microenvironments where they encounter a number of stimuli and other cell types. These activities are mediated by endothelial cells, which form specialized microcirculatory networks used by immune cells under both physiological and pathological circumstances. Endothelial cells represent a highly heterogeneous population of cells with the ability to interact with and modulate the function of immune cells. This review is focused on the role of microvascular endothelial cells in innate and adaptive immunity, inflammation, coagulation, angiogenesis, and the therapeutic implications of targeting endothelial cells in selected autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders.

Pneumonie à Pasteurella multocida compliquée de choc septique chez un patient non immunodéprimé

Pneumonia with septicemia caused by Pasteurella multocida was diagnosed in an immunocompetent patient exposed to a dog. This case is remarkable by two aspects: first the absence of visible cutaneous lesion, and second the localization and severity of the infection caused by P. multocida even though the patient was immunocompetent. P. multocida can cause respiratory and systemic infection, and it is a possible diagnosis in case of exposure to animals, even without history of bite or scratch. Furthermore, severe infections caused by this pathogen can occur in immunocompetent patients, so that the implication of specific host factors in the severity of the disease can be suspected. Genetic features could be one of these.

A2A adenosine receptors and C/EBPbeta are crucially required for IL-10 production by macrophages exposed to Escherichia coli

We recently showed that A(2A) adenosine receptor activation by endogenous adenosine contributes to interleukin-10 (IL-10) production in polymicrobial sepsis. Here we investigated the molecular mechanisms underpinning this interaction between adenosine receptor signaling and infection by exposing macrophages to Escherichia coli. We demonstrated using receptor knockout mice that A(2A) receptor activation is critically required for the stimulatory effect of adenosine on IL-10 production by E coli-challenged macrophages, whereas A(2B) receptors have a minor role. The stimulatory effect of adenosine on E coli-induced IL-10 production did not require toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) or MyD88, but was blocked by p38 inhibition. Using shRNA we demonstrated that TRAF6 impairs the potentiating effect of adenosine. Measuring IL-10 mRNA abundance and transfection with an IL-10 promoter-luciferase construct indicated that E coli and adenosine synergistically activate IL-10 transcription. Sequential deletion analysis and site-directed mutagenesis of the IL-10 promoter revealed that a region harboring C/EBP binding elements was responsible for the stimulatory effect of adenosine on E coli-induced IL-10 promoter activity. Adenosine augmented E coli-induced nuclear accumulation and DNA binding of C/EBPbeta. C/EBPbeta-deficient macrophages failed to produce IL-10 in response to adenosine and E coli. Our results suggest that the A(2A) receptor-C/EBPbeta axis is critical for IL-10 production after bacterial infection.

Adenosine A2areceptor-mediated, normoxic induction of HIF-1 through PKC and PI-3K-dependent pathways in macrophages

Adenosine released by cells in injurious or hypoxic environments has tissue-protecting and anti-inflammatory effects, which are also a result of modulation of macrophage functions, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production. As VEGF is a well-known target of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1), we hypothesized that adenosine may activate HIF-1 directly. Our studies using subtype-specific adenosine receptor agonists and antagonists showed that by activating the A(2A) receptor, adenosine treatment induced HIF-1 DNA-binding activity, nuclear accumulation, and transactivation capacity in J774A.1 mouse macrophages. Increased HIF-1 levels were also found in adenosine-treated mouse peritoneal macrophages. The HIF-1 activation induced by the A(2A) receptor-specific agonist CGS21680 required the PI-3K and protein kinase C pathways but was not mediated by changes in iron levels. Investigation of the molecular basis of HIF-1 activation revealed the involvement of transcriptional and to a larger extent, translational mechanisms. HIF-1 induction triggered the expression of HIF-1 target genes involved in cell survival (aldolase, phosphoglycerate kinase) and VEGF but did not induce inflammation-related genes regulated by HIF-1, such as TNF-alpha or CXCR4. Our results show that the formation of adenosine and induction of HIF-1, two events which occur in response to hypoxia, are linked directly and suggest that HIF-1 activation through A(2A) receptors may contribute to the anti-inflammatory and tissue-protecting activity of adenosine.

The adenosine A2A receptor agonist CGS 21680 fails to ameliorate the course of dextran sulphate-induced colitis in mice

OBJECTIVE

In this study we investigated the effect of CGS 21680 (2-p-(2-Carboxyethyl)phenethylamino-5-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine hydrochloride), an adenosine A2A receptor agonist, in a model of dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis.

METHODS

NMRI mice were fed 5 % (w/v) DSS, and were treated intraperitoneally with 0.5 mg/kg CGS 21680 or vehicle for 10 days. Changes of bodyweight, colon length, the incidence of rectal bleeding, levels of macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1alpha, MIP-2, interferon gamma, interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-12 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha from homogenates of colon biopsies, and the release of [3H]acetylcholine (ACh) from longitudinal muscle strip were determined.

RESULTS

DSS significantly decreased bodyweight, colon length, and it increased the incidence of rectal bleeding and levels of MIP-1alpha, MIP-2 and IL-1beta compared to DSS-untreated animals. CGS 21680 had no effect on these changes. No change could be observed in release of ACh in DSS-induced colitis with or without CGS 21680.

CONCLUSION

In summary, CGS 21680 is ineffective in ameliorating DSS-induced colitis in mice.

UC blood hematopoietic stem cells and therapeutic angiogenesis

Studies suggest that mobilized hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) are recruited to ischemic tissue and stimulate angiogenesis. Critical observations in pre-clinical studies have identified an augmentation of endogenous microvascular collateralization that is beyond that directly attributable to anatomic incorporation and differentiation of infused human cells into the vascular endothelium. Evidence links age-associated reductions in the levels of circulating marrow-derived HSC characterized by expression of early HSC markers CD133 and CD34, with the occurrence of cardiovascular events and associated death. Utilizing the patient's own HSC to augment angiogenesis has several disadvantages, including reduced function of these cells and logistical issues related to cell collection from individual patients. Thus an available source of allogeneic HSC such as UC blood for cellular therapy may be optimal.

Inflammation in wound repair: molecular and cellular mechanisms

In post-natal life the inflammatory response is an inevitable consequence of tissue injury. Experimental studies established the dogma that inflammation is essential to the establishment of cutaneous homeostasis following injury, and in recent years information about specific subsets of inflammatory cell lineages and the cytokine network orchestrating inflammation associated with tissue repair has increased. Recently, this dogma has been challenged, and reports have raised questions on the validity of the essential prerequisite of inflammation for efficient tissue repair. Indeed, in experimental models of repair, inflammation has been shown to delay healing and to result in increased scarring. Furthermore, chronic inflammation, a hallmark of the non-healing wound, predisposes tissue to cancer development. Thus, a more detailed understanding in mechanisms controlling the inflammatory response during repair and how inflammation directs the outcome of the healing process will serve as a significant milestone in the therapy of pathological tissue repair. In this paper, we review cellular and molecular mechanisms controlling inflammation in cutaneous tissue repair and provide a rationale for targeting the inflammatory phase in order to modulate the outcome of the healing response.

Myeloid differentiation factor 88-independent Toll-like receptor pathway: Sustaining inflammation or promoting tolerance?

Toll-like receptor signaling represents a principal molecular pathway for host innate immunity. Mechanistically, it can be segregated into two distinct cascades: the myeloid differentiation factor 88-dependent and myeloid differentiation factor 88-independent (or Toll receptor-associated activator of interferon-mediated) cascades. Myeloid differentiation factor 88-dependent signaling is common to all the Toll-like receptors, except Toll-like receptor 3, which exclusively utilizes the myeloid differentiation factor 88-independent pathway. Based on recent evidences, a possible role for myeloid differentiation factor 88-independent pathway not only in sustaining inflammatory responses during Gram-negative infection but also in protective responses like endotoxin tolerance is proposed in this review. We hypothesize that the delayed kinetics of activation of the myeloid differentiation factor 88-independent pathway might be functionally aimed at tuning-down inflammatory reactions through promotion of cellular tolerization and possibly protecting hosts from inflammation-induced injury. Future studies will be needed to experimentally validate this idea and the crucial relevance of the myeloid differentiation factor 88-independent pathway.

Expression patterns and action analysis of genes associated with physiological responses during rat liver regeneration: Innate immune response

AIM: To study the relationship between innate immune response and liver regeneration (LR) at transcriptional level.

METHODS: Genes associated with innate immunity response were obtained by collecting the data from databases and retrieving articles. Gene expression changes in rat regenerating liver were detected by rat genome 230 2.0 array.

RESULTS: A total of 85 genes were found to be associated with LR. The initially and totally expressed number of genes at the phases of initiation [0.5-4 h after partial hepatectomy (PH)], transition from G0 to G1 (4-6 h after PH), cell proliferation (6-66 h after PH), cell differentiation and structure-function reconstruction (66-168 h after PH) was 36, 9, 47, 4 and 36, 26, 78, 50, respectively, illustrating that the associated genes were mainly triggered at the initial phase of LR and worked at different phases. According to their expression similarity, these genes were classified into 5 types: 41 up-regulated, 4 predominantly up-regulated, 26 down-regulated, 6 predominantly down-regulated, and 8 approximately up/down-regulated genes, respectively. The expression of these genes was up-regulated 350 times and down-regulated 129 times respectively, demonstrating that the expression of most genes was enhanced while the expression of a small number of genes was decreased during LR. Their time relevance was classified into 14 groups, showing that the cellular physiological and biochemical activities during LR were staggered. According to the gene expression patterns, they were classified into 28 types, indicating that the cellular physiological and biochemical activities were diverse and complicated during LR.

CONCLUSION: Congenital cellular immunity is enhanced mainly in the forepart, prophase and anaphase of LR while congenital molecular immunity is increased dominantly in the forepart and anaphase of LR. A total of 85 genes associated with LR play an important role in innate immunity.

HIF-dependent induction of adenosine A2B receptor in hypoxia

Adenosine has been widely associated with hypoxia of many origins, including those associated with inflammation and tumorogenesis. A number of recent studies have implicated metabolic control of adenosine generation at sites of tissue hypoxia. Here, we examine adenosine receptor control and amplification of signaling through transcriptional regulation of endothelial and epithelial adenosine receptors. Initial studies confirmed previous findings indicating selective induction of human adenosine A2B receptor (A2BR) by hypoxia. Analysis of the cloned human A2BR promoter identified a functional hypoxia-responsive region, including a functional binding site for hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) within the A2BR promoter. Further studies examining HIF-1alpha DNA binding and HIF-1alpha gain and loss of function confirmed strong dependence of A2BR induction by HIF-1alpha in vitro and in vivo mouse models. Additional studies in endothelia overexpressing full-length A2BR revealed functional phenotypes of increased barrier function and enhanced angiogenesis. Taken together, these results demonstrate transcriptional coordination of A2BR by HIF-1alpha and amplified adenosine signaling during hypoxia. These findings may provide an important link between hypoxia and metabolic conditions associated with inflammation and angiogenesis.

Angiopoietin-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor induce expression of inflammatory cytokines before angiogenesis

The purpose of this study was to identify novel transcriptional events occurring in the aortic wall before angiogenesis. We used a defined tissue culture system that takes advantage of the capacity of rat aortic rings to generate neovessels ex vivo in response to angiogenic factor stimulation. Total RNA isolated from aortic rings 18 h posttreatment with angiopoietin (Ang)-1 or vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was used to probe oligonucleotide microarrays. Many genes were up- or downregulated by either Ang-1 or VEGF, with a subset being affected by treatment with both growth factors. Grouping of genes by biological function revealed that Ang-1 and VEGF both upregulated a host of immune-related genes including many inflammatory cytokines. A mixture of the Ang-1- and VEGF-induced cytokines stimulated the spontaneous angiogenic response of aortic rings and was synergistic with a low dose of recombinant VEGF. This effect was associated with enhanced recruitment of adventitial macrophages and dendritic cells in the angiogenic outgrowths. Thus Ang-1 and VEGF activate the innate immune system of the vessel wall, stimulating the production of proangiogenic inflammatory cytokines before the emergence of neovessels. This hitherto unreported feature of the angiogenic response might represent an important early component of the cellular and molecular cascade responsible for the angiogenic response of the aortic wall.

Synergistic up-regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in macrophages by adenosine A2A receptor agonists and endotoxin involves transcriptional regulation via the hypoxia response element in the VEGF promoter

Macrophages are an important source of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) agonists with Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2, 4, 7, and 9 agonists synergistically induce macrophage VEGF expression. We show here using VEGF promoter-luciferase reporter constructs that the TLR4 agonist Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the A2AR agonists NECA and CGS21680 synergistically augment VEGF transcription in macrophages and that the HRE in the VEGF promoter is essential for this transcription. We examined whether LPS and/or NECA induce HIF-1alpha expression. HIF-1alpha mRNA levels were increased in LPS-treated macrophages in an NF-kappaB-dependent manner; NECA strongly increased these levels in an A2AR-dependent manner. LPS induced luciferase expression from a HIF-1alpha promoter-luciferase construct in an A2AR-independent manner. Further stimulation with NECA did not increase HIF-1alpha promoter activity, indicating that the A2AR-dependent increase in HIF-1alpha mRNA is post-transcriptional. LPS/NECA treatment also increased HIF-1alpha protein and DNA binding levels. Deletion of putative NF-kappaB-binding sites from the VEGF promoter did not affect LPS/NECA-induced VEGF promoter activity, suggesting that NF-kappaB is not directly involved in VEGF transcription. Taken together, these data indicate that LPS/NECA-induced VEGF expression involves transcriptional regulation of the VEGF promoter by HIF-1alpha through the HRE. HIF-1alpha is transcriptionally induced by LPS and post-transcriptionally up-regulated in an A2AR-dependent manner.

Lipopolysaccharide from Escherichia coli induces the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor via toll-like receptor 4 in human limbal fibroblasts

Corneal neovascularization can be induced by a severe ocular infection, injury or immunological diseases. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the main cytokine involved in this phenomenon, inducing angiogenesis from the vascularized ocular tissues. As the limbal tissue is located between conjunctival and corneal tissues, we suggest that the limbal cells are participating in the production of VEGF induced by bacterial components as LPS. In this work, RT-PCRs and immunoblots were used to investigate the expression of VEGF and other pro-angiogenic genes in primary cultures of human limbal fibroblasts (PCHLF) treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Escherichia coli. We found that the expression of VEGF was initiated at 6 h and reaches its highest expression at 72 h after stimulation with LPS. Up-regulation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) after 3 h of treatment was also observed. LPS-induced the expression of VEGF in a dose-dependent manner, and the blocking of TLR4 with an anti-TLR4 antibody prevented VEGF expression. We also analyzed the molecules that modulate VEGF expression. LPS did not induce the up-regulation of LL-37 nor the hypoxia induced factor 1 alpha (HIF-1alpha) mRNA expression, however, an up-regulation of interleukin 13 receptor alpha 1 (IL-13Ralpha1) and interleukin 4 receptor alpha (IL-4Ralpha) were observed after 3 and 12 h of stimulation, respectively. The expression of interleukin 13 did not change throughout the treatment. These results suggest that TLR4, IL-13Ralpha1 and IL-4Ralpha induced by LPS in PCHLF could be playing an important role in the corneal neovascularization.

Shaping of monocyte and macrophage function by adenosine receptors

Adenosine is an endogenous purine nucleoside that, following its release into the extracellular space, binds to specific adenosine receptors expressed on the cell surface. Adenosine appears in the extracellular space under metabolically stressful conditions, which are associated with ischemia, inflammation, and cell damage. There are 4 types of adenosine receptors (A(1), A(2A), A(2B) and A(3)) and all adenosine receptors are members of the G protein-coupled family of receptors. Adenosine receptors are expressed on monocytes and macrophages and through these receptors adenosine modulates monocyte and macrophage function. Since monocytes and macrophages are activated by the same danger signals that cause accumulation of extracellular adenosine, adenosine receptors expressed on macrophages represent a sensor system that provide monocytes and macrophages with information about the stressful environment. Adenosine receptors, thus, allow monocytes and macrophages to fine-tune their responses to stressful stimuli. Here, we review the consequences of adenosine receptor activation on monocyte/macrophage function. We will detail the effect of stimulating the various adenosine receptor subtypes on macrophage differentiation/proliferation, phagocytosis, and tissue factor (TF) expression. We will also summarize our knowledge of how adenosine impacts the production of extracellular mediators secreted by monocytes and macrophages in response to toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands and other inflammatory stimuli. Specifically, we will delineate how adenosine affects the production of superoxide, nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-12, IL-10, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). A deeper insight into the regulation of monocyte and macrophage function by adenosine receptors should assist in developing new therapies for inflammatory diseases.

The adenosine system selectively inhibits TLR-mediated TNF-alpha production in the human newborn

Human newborns are susceptible to microbial infection and mount poor vaccine responses, yet the mechanisms underlying their susceptibility are incompletely defined. We have previously reported that despite normal basal expression of TLRs and associated signaling intermediates, human neonatal cord blood monocytes demonstrate severe impairment in TNF-alpha production in response to triacylated (TLR 2/1) and diacylated (TLR 2/6) bacterial lipopeptides (BLPs). We now demonstrate that in marked contrast, BLP-induced synthesis of IL-6, a cytokine with anti-inflammatory and Th2-polarizing properties, is actually greater in neonates than adults. Remarkably, newborn blood plasma confers substantially reduced BLP-induced monocyte synthesis of TNF-alpha, while preserving IL-6 synthesis, reflecting the presence in neonatal blood plasma of a soluble, low molecular mass inhibitory factor (<10 kDa) that we identify as adenosine, an endogenous purine metabolite with immunomodulatory properties. The neonatal adenosine system also inhibits TNF-alpha production in response to whole microbial particles known to express TLR2 agonist activity, including Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli (that express BLPs), and zymosan particles. Selective inhibition of neonatal TNF-alpha production is due to the distinct neonatal adenosine system, including relatively high adenosine concentrations in neonatal blood plasma and heightened sensitivity of neonatal mononuclear cells to adenosine A3 receptor-mediated accumulation of cAMP, a second messenger that inhibits TLR-mediated TNF-alpha synthesis but preserves IL-6 production. We conclude that the distinct adenosine system of newborns polarizes TLR-mediated cytokine production during the perinatal period and may thereby modulate their innate and adaptive immune responses.

Adenosine 5'-triphosphate and adenosine as endogenous signaling molecules in immunity and inflammation

Human health is under constant threat of a wide variety of dangers, both self and nonself. The immune system is occupied with protecting the host against such dangers in order to preserve human health. For that purpose, the immune system is equipped with a diverse array of both cellular and non-cellular effectors that are in continuous communication with each other. The naturally occurring nucleotide adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and its metabolite adenosine (Ado) probably constitute an intrinsic part of this extensive immunological network through purinergic signaling by their cognate receptors, which are widely expressed throughout the body. This review provides a thorough overview of the effects of ATP and Ado on major immune cell types. The overwhelming evidence indicates that ATP and Ado are important endogenous signaling molecules in immunity and inflammation. Although the role of ATP and Ado during the course of inflammatory and immune responses in vivo appears to be extremely complex, we propose that their immunological role is both interdependent and multifaceted, meaning that the nature of their effects may shift from immunostimulatory to immunoregulatory or vice versa depending on extracellular concentrations as well as on expression patterns of purinergic receptors and ecto-enzymes. Purinergic signaling thus contributes to the fine-tuning of inflammatory and immune responses in such a way that the danger to the host is eliminated efficiently with minimal damage to healthy tissues.

T Cell-Independent, TLR-Induced IL-12p70 Production in Primary Human Monocytes

IL-12p70 is a key cytokine for the induction of Th1 immune responses. IL-12p70 production in myeloid cells is thought to be strictly controlled by T cell help. In this work we demonstrate that primary human monocytes can produce IL-12p70 in the absence of T cell help. We show that human monocytes express TLR4 and TLR8 but lack TLR3 and TLR7 even after preincubation with type I IFN. Simultaneous stimulation of TLR4 and TLR8 induced IL-12p70 in primary human monocytes. IL-12p70 production in peripheral blood myeloid dendritic cells required combined stimulation of TLR7/8 ligands together with TLR4 or with TLR3 ligands. In the presence of T cell-derived IL-4, but not IFN-gamma, stimulation with TLR7/8 ligands was sufficient to stimulate IL-12p70 production. In monocytes, type I IFN was required but not sufficient to costimulate IL-12p70 induction by TLR8 ligation. Furthermore, TLR8 ligation inhibited LPS-induced IL-10 in monocytes, and LPS alone gained the ability to stimulate IL-12p70 in monocytes when the IL-10 receptor was blocked. Together, these results demonstrate that monocytes are licensed to synthesize IL-12p70 through type I IFN provided via the Toll/IL-1R domain-containing adaptor inducing IFN-beta pathway and the inhibition of IL-10, both provided by combined stimulation with TLR4 and TLR8 ligands, triggering a potent Th1 response before T cell help is established.

Physiological roles for ecto-5'-nucleotidase (CD73)

Nucleotides and nucleosides influence nearly every aspect of physiology and pathophysiology. Extracellular nucleotides are metabolized through regulated phosphohydrolysis by a series of ecto-nucleotidases. The formation of extracellular adenosine from adenosine 5’-monophosphate is accomplished primarily through ecto-5’-nucleotidase (CD73), a glycosyl phosphatidylinositol-linked membrane protein found on the surface of a variety of cell types. Recent in vivo studies implicating CD73 in a number of tissue protective mechanisms have provided new insight into its regulation and function and have generated considerable interest. Here, we review contributions of CD73 to cell and tissue stress responses, with a particular emphasis on physiologic responses to regulated CD73 expression and function, as well as new findings utilizing Cd73-deficient animals.

Adenosine A2A receptor inactivation increases survival in polymicrobial sepsis

The mechanisms governing the impairment of bacterial clearance and immune function in sepsis are not known. Adenosine levels are elevated during tissue hypoxia and damage associated with sepsis. Adenosine has strong immunosuppressive effects, many of which are mediated by A(2A) receptors (A(2A)R) expressed on immune cells. We examined whether A(2A)R are involved in the regulation of immune function in cecal ligation and puncture-induced murine polymicrobial sepsis by genetically or pharmacologically inactivating A(2A)R. A(2A)R knockout (KO) mice were protected from the lethal effect of sepsis and had improved bacterial clearance compared with wild-type animals. cDNA microarray analysis and flow cytometry revealed increased MHC II expression in A(2A)-inactivated mice, suggesting improved Ag presentation as a mechanism of protection. Apoptosis was attenuated in the spleen of A(2A) KO mice indicating preserved lymphocyte function. Levels of the immunosuppressive cytokines IL-10 and IL-6 were markedly lower following A(2A)R blockade. Similar to observations with A(2A)R KO mice, an A(2A)R antagonist increased survival even when administered in a delayed fashion. These studies demonstrate that A(2A)R blockade may be useful in the treatment of infection and sepsis.

Adenosine A2A agonists in development for the treatment of inflammation

Extracellular adenosine binds specifically to a family of four G protein-coupled cell-surface adenosine receptors (ARs). As the activation of the A2AAR modulates the activity of multiple inflammatory cells including neutrophils, macrophages and T lymphocytes, the receptor is considered to be a promising pharmacological target for the treatment of inflammatory disorders. Although adenosine binds nonselectively to all four AR subtypes, A2AAR selective agonists have been developed and shown to inhibit multiple manifestations of inflammatory cell activation including superoxide anion generation, cytokine production and adhesion molecule expression. A2AAR agonists are also vasodilators, but the inhibition of inflammation occurs at low doses that produce few or no cardiovascular side effects. Therefore, the selective activation of the A2AAR by these compounds holds significant potential in the treatment of inflammation.

Adenosine A2A receptor activation reduces lung injury in trauma/hemorrhagic shock*

OBJECTIVE

Hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation trigger a global ischemia/reperfusion phenomenon, in which various inflammatory processes critically contribute to the ensuing tissue damage. Adenosine is an endogenous nucleoside that is released during shock. Activation of adenosine A(2A) receptors can broadly inactivate inflammatory cascades. The current study was designed to evaluate the effect of A(2A) receptor activation on organ injury and inflammation in the setting of global ischemia/reperfusion elicited by trauma/hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation.

DESIGN

Prospective animal study with concurrent control.

SETTING

Small animal laboratory.

SUBJECTS

Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats.

INTERVENTIONS

The rats were subjected to a laparotomy (trauma) and 90 mins of hemorrhagic shock or trauma/sham shock. The selective A(2A) receptor agonist CGS-21680 (2-p-(2-carboxyethyl) phenethylamino-5'-N-ethyl-carboxamidoadenosine; 0.5 mg/kg) or its vehicle was injected 30 mins before shock or immediately after resuscitation. At 3 hrs following resuscitation, animals were killed and tissue was harvested for analysis. Lung permeability and pulmonary myeloperoxidase levels were used to quantitate lung injury. Intestinal injury was determined by histologic analysis of terminal ileum. Red blood cell deformability was measured by a laser-assisted ektacytometer. In this assay, a decrease in the elongation index is a marker of decreased red blood cell deformability.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Pretreatment with CGS-21680 protected the lung but not the gut against shock-induced injury and prevented the shock-induced decrease in red blood cell deformability. Posttreatment with CGS-21680 ameliorated shock-induced lung injury but failed to prevent gut injury and preserve red blood cell deformability.

CONCLUSION

A(2A) receptor agonists may represent a novel therapeutic approach in preventing organ injury following trauma/hemorrhagic shock.

Helicobacter pylori-Induced invasion and angiogenesis of gastric cells is mediated by cyclooxygenase-2 induction through TLR2/TLR9 and promoter regulation

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) plays a crucial role in Helicobacter pylori-associated gastric cancer. In this study, we report that H. pylori-induced COX-2 expression enhances the cancer cell invasion and angiogenesis via TLR2 and TLR9, which can be attenuated by the specific COX-2 inhibitor NS398 or celecoxib. The cAMP response element (CRE) and AP1 sites, but not kappaB on the COX-2 promoter, are involved in MAPKs-regulated COX-2 expression. Differential bindings of the CREB-1, ATF-2, c-jun to the CRE site, and the c-fos, c-jun, ATF-2 to the AP1 site are demonstrated by DNA affinity protein-binding, supershift, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Activations of these transcription factors were attenuated by different MAPKs inhibitors. The mutants of TLR2, TLR9, or MAPKs inhibited H. pylori-induced COX-2 promoter, CRE, and AP-1 activities. MAPKs inhibitors attenuated the H. pylori-induced COX-2 mRNA and protein expressions. These results indicate that H. pylori acts through TLR2 and TLR9 to activate MAPKs, especially p38, and their downstream transcription factors (CREB-1, ATF-2, c-jun, and c-fos), resulting in the activations of CRE and AP-1 on the COX-2 promoter. These intracellular networks drive the COX-2-dependent PGE2 release and contribute to cell invasion and angiogenesis.

Adenosine augments IL-10 production by macrophages through an A2B receptor-mediated posttranscriptional mechanism

Adenosine receptor ligands have anti-inflammatory effects and modulate immune responses by up-regulating IL-10 production by immunostimulated macrophages. The adenosine receptor family comprises G protein-coupled heptahelical transmembrane receptors classified into four types: A1, A2A, A2B, and A3. Our understanding of the signaling mechanisms leading to enhanced IL-10 production following adenosine receptor occupancy on macrophages is limited. In this study, we demonstrate that adenosine receptor occupancy increases IL-10 production by LPS-stimulated macrophages without affecting IL-10 promoter activity and IL-10 mRNA levels, indicating a posttranscriptional mechanism. Transfection experiments with reporter constructs containing sequences corresponding to the AU-rich 3'-untranslated region (UTR) of IL-10 mRNA confirmed that adenosine receptor activation acts by relieving the translational repressive effect of the IL-10 3'-UTR. By contrast, adenosine receptor activation failed to liberate the translational arrest conferred by the 3'-UTR of TNF-alpha mRNA. The IL-10 3'-UTR formed specific complexes with proteins present in cytoplasmic extracts of RAW 264.7 cells. Adenosine enhanced binding of proteins to a region of the IL-10 3'-UTR containing the GUAUUUAUU nonamer. The stimulatory effect of adenosine on IL-10 production was mediated through the A(2B) receptor, because the order of potency of selective agonists was 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA) > N6-(3-iodobenzyl)-adenosine-5'-N-methyluronamide (IB-MECA) > 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CCPA) = 2-p-(2-carboxyethyl)phenethylamino-5'-N-ethyl-carboxamidoadenosine (CGS-21680). Also, the selective A2B antagonist, alloxazine, prevented the effect of adenosine. Collectively, these studies identify a novel pathway in which activation of a G protein-coupled receptor augments translation of an anti-inflammatory gene.

Paracrine regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor--a expression during macrophage-melanoma cell interaction: role of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and macrophage colony-stimulating factor

Tumor-associated macrophages are major infiltrates of human solid malignancies and play an important role in tumor angiogenesis by production of angiogenic factors. In the present study, we examined whether macrophage- melanoma cell interaction regulates vascular endothelial cell growth factor-A (VEGF-A) expression in macrophages. We analyzed the expression of mediators of monocyte recruitment and differentiation, such as monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) in malignant melanoma specimens and tumor cells with different metastatic potential. Our data demonstrate that MCP-1 and M-CSF are differentially expressed in human malignant melanomas from different thickness and depth of invasion and cell lines. Next, we examined the effect of MCP-1 and M-CSF on modulation of VEGFA expression in monocytes/macrophages. Treatment of human monocytes with M-CSF and MCP-1 enhanced VEGF-A expression by increased hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1alpha) expression and enhanced activation of the hypoxia response element (HRE). Further activation of monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) caused an increase in VEGF-A expression. We demonstrate that coculture of melanoma cells with monocytes enhanced VEGF-A secretion, and conditioned medium from MDMs enhanced melanoma cell expression of VEGF-A. Furthermore, conditioned medium from melanoma cells enhanced VEGF-A expression in human monocytes, which was abrogated by anti-M-CSF neutralizing antibody. In summary, we demonstrate that MCP-1 and M-CSF, critical for monocyte recruitment, activation, and differentiation, differentially regulate VEGF-A expression and may play an important role in monocyte/macrophage- mediated tumor angiogenesis.

Lipopolysaccharide rapidly modifies adenosine receptor transcripts in murine and human macrophages: role of NF-kappaB in A(2A) adenosine receptor induction

The A(2A) adenosine receptor (A(2A)AR) mediates anti-inflammatory actions of adenosine in a variety of cell types. LPS (lipopolysaccharide) was reported to induce a small (<2-fold) increase in the expression of A(2A)AR mRNA in human monocytes and monocytic cell lines. We investigated the effects of LPS on the expression of adenosine receptor mRNAs in primary mouse IPMPhi (intraperitoneal macrophages), human macrophages and Wehi-3 cells. Treatment with 10 ng/ml LPS for 4 h produced a >100-fold increase in A(2A)AR mRNA. LPS-induced increases in mRNA for A(2A)AR and TNFalpha (tumour necrosis factor alpha) are reduced by 90% in IPMPhi pretreated with the NF-kappaB (nuclear factor kappaB) inhibitor, BAY 11-7082 {(E)3-[(4-methylphenyl)sulphonyl]-2-propenenitrile; 10 microM}. In Wehi-3 cells exposed to LPS, A(2A)AR and A(2B)AR transcripts are elevated by 290- and 10-fold respectively, the A(1)AR transcript is unchanged and the A(3)AR transcript is decreased by 67%. The induction of A(2A)AR mRNA by LPS is detectable after 1 h, reaches a peak at 6 h at 600 times control and remains elevated beyond 24 h. The ED50 (effective dose) of LPS is 2.3 ng/ml. A(2A)AR receptor number, measured by 125I-ZM241385 binding to whole cells, is undetectable in naïve cells and increases linearly at a rate of 23 receptors x cell(-1) x min(-1) to a B(max) of 348 fmol/mg (28000 receptors/cell) in 20 h. The increase in receptor number is correlated with an increase in the potency of an A(2A) agonist (4-{3-[6-amino-9-(5-ethylcarbamoyl-3,4-dihydroxy-tetrahydro-furan-2-yl)-9H-purin-2-yl]-prop-2-ynyl}-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid methyl ester; referred to as ATL146e) to stimulate cAMP in these cells. After LPS pretreatment, the potency of the A(2A) agonist, ATL146e, to reduce TNFalpha release from IPMPhi was increased by 200-fold. The results support the hypothesis that regulation of adenosine receptor expression, especially up-regulation of the A(2A)AR, is part of a delayed feedback mechanism initiated through NF-kappaB to terminate the activation of human and mouse macrophages.

Activation of the adenosine A3 receptor in RAW 264.7 cells inhibits lipopolysaccharide-stimulated tumor necrosis factor-alpha release by reducing calcium-dependent activation of nuclear factor-kappaB and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2

Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) activates the immune system and promotes inflammation via Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4, which regulates the synthesis and release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and other inflammatory cytokines. Previous studies have shown that the nucleoside adenosine suppresses LPS-stimulated TNF-alpha release in human UB939 macrophages by activating an adenosine A(3) receptor (A(3)AR) subtype on these cells. In this study, we examined the mechanism(s) underlying A(3)AR-dependent inhibition of TNF-alpha release in a mouse (RAW 264.7) cell line. Treatment of RAW 264.7 cells with LPS (3 mug/ml) increased TNF-alpha release, which was reduced in a dose-dependent manner by adenosine analogs N(6)-(3-iodobenzyl)-adenosine-5'-N-methyluronamide (IB-MECA) and R-phenylisopropyladenosine and reversed by selective A(3)AR blockade. The increase in TNF-alpha release was preceded by an increase in intracellular Ca(2+) levels. Inhibition of intracellular Ca(2+) release by IB-MECA, a selective agonist of the A(3)AR, or with BAPTA-AM, an intracellular Ca(2+) chelator, reduced LPS-stimulated TNF-alpha release. Activation of the A(3)AR or inhibition of intracellular Ca(2+) release also reduced LPS-stimulated nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation. Similar inhibition by A(3)AR was observed for LPS-stimulated inducible nitric-oxide synthase. These data support the contention that inhibition of LPS-stimulated release of inflammatory molecules, such as TNF-alpha and NO via the A(3)AR, involves suppression of intracellular Ca(2+)signaling, leading to suppression of NF-kappaB and ERK1/2 pathways.

Role of Toll-like receptors in infection and immunity: clinical implications

The remarkable discovery of the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) over the past 5 years has opened up an entirely new era in the understanding of the molecular events that initiate the inflammatory response. These type 1 transmembrane receptors are expressed on a large number of immune cells as well as epithelial cells and play an essential role in the activation of the innate immune response to microbial pathogens. They impact on adaptive immune reactions and contribute to the initiation and maintenance of the inflammatory response to a multitude of potential microbial pathogens through recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns. TLRs also interact with a variety of endogenous human ligands and influence the activity of a wide range of tissues and cell processes. Among the common and important processes in which TLRs play a role are asthma, acute respiratory distress syndrome, cardiac ischaemia, coronary artery disease, ventricular remodelling, vascular collapse, inflammatory bowel disease, acute tubular necrosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, pre-term birth, fertility, cancer angiogenesis and transplant rejection. From this strikingly diverse list, many important opportunities for disease modification through TLR manipulation can be imagined. Their role as potential targets for therapeutic intervention is just beginning to be appreciated, and the current status of these treatment strategies is reviewed in this article.

Pure Lipopolysaccharide or Synthetic Lipid A Induces Activation of p21Ras in Primary Macrophages through a Pathway Dependent on Src Family Kinases and PI3K

Recognition of bacterial LPS by macrophages plays a critical role in host defense against infection by Gram-negative bacteria. However, when not tightly regulated, the macrophage's response to LPS can induce severe disease and septic shock. Although LPS triggers the activation of multiple signaling pathways in macrophages, it was unclear whether these include activation of the p21Ras GTPases. We report that p21Ras is rapidly and transiently activated in murine primary macrophages stimulated with an ultra-pure preparation of LPS or with synthetic lipid A. The molecular basis of this activation was investigated using a pharmacological approach. LPS-induced activation of p21Ras was inhibited in the presence of PP2, LY294002, or wortmannin, suggesting that it depends on the activity of one or more members of the Src kinase family and the subsequent activation of PI3K. In that pharmacological inhibitors of PI3K inhibited LPS-induced activation of p21Ras, but not activation of ERK, we concluded that LPS-induced activation of ERK occurs through a pathway that is not dependent on the activation of p21Ras.

Adenosine A2A receptor stimulation potentiates nitric oxide release by activated microglia

The absence of adenosine A2A receptors, or its pharmacological inhibition, has neuroprotective effects. Experimental data suggest that glial A2A receptors participate in neurodegeneration induced by A2A receptor stimulation. In this study we have investigated the effects of A2A receptor stimulation on control and activated glial cells. Mouse cortical mixed glial cultures (75% astrocytes, 25% microglia) were treated with the A2A receptor agonist CGS21680 alone or in combination with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). CGS21680 potentiated lipopolysaccharide-induced NO release and NO synthase-II expression in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. CGS21680 potentiation of lipopolysaccharide-induced NO release was suppressed by the A2A receptor antagonist ZM-241385 and did not occur on mixed glial cultures from A2A receptor-deficient mice. In mixed glial cultures treated with LPS + CGS21680, the NO synthase-II inhibitor 1400W abolished NO production, and NO synthase-II immunoreactivity was observed only in microglia. Binding experiments demonstrated the presence of A2A receptors on microglial but not on astroglial cultures. However, the presence of astrocytes was necessary for CGS21680 potentiating effect. In light of the reported neurotoxicity of microglial NO synthase-II and the neuroprotection of A2A receptor inhibition, these data suggest that attenuation of microglial NO production could contribute to the neuroprotection afforded by A2A receptor antagonists.

Inflammatory cells during wound repair: the good, the bad and the ugly

Damage to any tissue triggers a cascade of events that leads to rapid repair of the wound - if the tissue is skin, then repair involves re-epithelialization, formation of granulation tissue and contraction of underlying wound connective tissues. This concerted effort by the wounded cell layers is accompanied by, and might also be partially regulated by, a robust inflammatory response, in which first neutrophils and then macrophages and mast cells emigrate from nearby tissues and from the circulation. Clearly, this inflammatory response is crucial for fighting infection and must have been selected for during the course of evolution so that tissue damage did not inevitably lead to death through septicemia. But, aside from this role, exactly what are the functions of the various leukocyte lineages that are recruited with overlapping time courses to the wound site, and might they do more harm than good? Recent knockout and knockdown studies suggest that depletion of one or more of the inflammatory cell lineages can even enhance healing, and we discuss new views on how regulation of the migration of inflammatory cells to sites of tissue damage might guide therapeutic strategies for modulating the inflammatory response.

Toll-like receptors and the eye

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review will describe the structure, expression/distribution and functional activity of Toll-like receptors, in particular in the ocular structures. It will also discuss innate and adaptive immune responses, by exploring the possible modulation/regulation of innate and adaptive immunity by Toll-like receptors, in view of recent findings observed in the ocular surface.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current knowledge indicates that Toll-like receptors represent essential elements in host defence against pathogens, a prerequisite to the induction of adaptive immune responses. The expression/distribution of Toll-like receptors in the healthy eye highlights the possible function of Toll-like receptors in both innate and adaptive responses during pathological conditions of the ocular surface.

SUMMARY

Recent findings have greatly increased the knowledge of the possible role of Toll-like receptors in innate and adaptive immune responses. Toll-like receptors seem to play different roles in a wide range of activities of the immune system, and might represent an exclusive link between innate and adaptive responses under pathological conditions. Recent studies in ophthalmology have highlighted the role of Toll-like receptors in infections (keratitis) as well as in allergic states of the ocular surface. This review thus describes the relationship between Toll-like receptors and the main immune/structural cells taking part in inflammatory disorders. Understanding the complex mechanisms underlying Toll-like receptor localization and function will provide additional data that might help devise novel therapeutic approaches involving Toll-like receptors and their agonists, in an attempt to modulate the biased immune system.

Growth regulation of the vascular system: an emerging role for adenosine

The importance of metabolic factors in the regulation of angiogenesis is well understood. An increase in metabolic activity leads to a decrease in tissue oxygenation causing tissues to become hypoxic. The hypoxia initiates a variety of signals that stimulate angiogenesis, and the increase in vascularity that follows promotes oxygen delivery to the tissues. When the tissues receive adequate amounts of oxygen, the intermediate effectors return to normal levels, and angiogenesis ceases. An emerging concept is that adenosine released from hypoxic tissues has an important role in driving the angiogenesis. The following feedback control hypothesis is proposed: AMP is dephosphorylated by ecto-5′-nucleotidase, producing adenosine under hypoxic conditions in the extracellular space adjacent to a parenchymal cell (e.g., cardiomyocyte, skeletal muscle fiber, hepatocyte, etc.). Extracellular adenosine activates A2receptors, which stimulates the release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from the parenchymal cell. VEGF binds to its receptor (VEGF receptor 2) on endothelial cells, stimulating their proliferation and migration. Adenosine can also stimulate endothelial cell proliferation independently of VEGF, which probably involves modulation of other proangiogenic and antiangiogenic growth factors and perhaps an intracellular mechanism. In addition, hemodynamic factors associated with adenosine-induced vasodilation may have a role in the development and remodeling of the vasculature. Once a new capillary network has been established, and the diffusion/perfusion capabilities of the vasculature are sufficient to supply the parenchymal cells with adequate amounts of oxygen, adenosine and VEGF as well as other proangiogenic and antiangiogenic growth factors return to near-normal levels, thus closing the negative feedback loop. The available data indicate that adenosine might be an essential mediator for up to 50–70% of the hypoxia-induced angiogenesis in some situations; however, additional studies in intact animals will be required to fully understand the quantitative importance of adenosine.

Mammalian Toll-like receptors: to immunity and beyond

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) constitute an archetypal pattern recognition system. Their sophisticated biology underpins the ability of innate immunity to discriminate between highly diverse microbial pathogens and self. However, the remarkable progress made in describing this biology has also revealed new immunological systems and processes previously hidden to investigators. In particular, TLRs appear to have a fundamental role in the generation of clonal adaptive immune responses, non-infectious disease pathogenesis and even in the maintenance of normal mammalian homeostasis. Although an understanding of TLRs has answered some fundamental questions at the host-pathogen interface, further issues, particularly regarding therapeutic modulation of these receptors, have yet to be resolved.