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Qiu W, Han X, Yu T, Jiang L, Wang X, Feng R, Duan X, Teng Y, Yin H, Bokarewa MI, Deng G. Inhibitory effect of hydroxychloroquine on glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in lupus therapy. Clin Transl Immunology 2024; 13:e70010. [PMID: 39416769 PMCID: PMC11480648 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.70010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic and severe autoimmune disease characterised by persistent inflammation. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and glucocorticoids (GCs) are the primary agents commonly used in combination as the first-line treatment for SLE. Nevertheless, the specific mechanisms responsible for the effectiveness of this combined therapy with HCQ and GCs have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to reveal the mechanism behind combined HCQ and GC treatment in lupus. Methods An SLE IgG-induced inflammation model was used to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of HCQ and dexamethasone (DXM). A glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) model was used to investigate the inhibitory effect of HCQ on osteoclastogenesis. Inflammation was assessed by haematoxylin and eosin staining. Bone metabolism was determined structurally via microcomputer tomography and in bone marrow-derived osteoclast cultures. Results An SLE IgG-induced inflammation model demonstrated that HCQ could not ameliorate inflammation alone but could enhance the anti-inflammatory effect of GCs by decreasing the expression of FcγRI on macrophages. HCQ inhibited osteoclastogenesis induced by GCs and RANKL by upregulating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and limiting reactive oxygen species formation, which mitigated GC-induced bone loss. Conclusion The results indicate that HCQ improved the anti-inflammatory effects of GCs and inhibits the osteoclastogenesis in experimental lupus. This study offers valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the combined treatment of lupus with HCQ and GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlin Qiu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xiaoxiao Han
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Tong Yu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Lijuan Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xuefei Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Ruizhi Feng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xiaoru Duan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yao Teng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Haifeng Yin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Maria I Bokarewa
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of MedicineGothenburg UniversityGothenburgSweden
- Rheumatology ClinicSahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Guo‐Min Deng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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2
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Wang X, Deng GM. Animal models of studying the pathogenesis of multi-organ tissue damage in lupus. Clin Immunol 2024; 263:110231. [PMID: 38692449 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2024.110231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Moderate-to-severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by extensive autoantibody deposition and persistent autoinflammation. As the existing animal models are limited in accurately reproducing the pathological characteristics of human SLE, we introduced a novel animal model simulating multi-organ autoinflammation through intra-organ injections. The model closely mimicked key features of SLE, including IgG deposition, inflammation, and tissue damage. The model could be used to assess the roles of IgG, immune cells, cytokines, and Fc gamma receptor (FcγR) in the pathogenesis of autoinflammation. The results obtained from this model could be confirmed by lupus MRL/lpr mice. The review suggested that the diagnostic criteria should be reconsidered to incorporate IgG deposition in tissues and highlighted the limitations of current T-cell and B-cell-focused treatments. To summarize, the IgG deposition model can be used to investigate the pathogenesis and treatment of multi-organ tissue damage associated with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefei Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guo-Min Deng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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3
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Guerrache A, Micheau O. TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand: Non-Apoptotic Signalling. Cells 2024; 13:521. [PMID: 38534365 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL or Apo2 or TNFSF10) belongs to the TNF superfamily. When bound to its agonistic receptors, TRAIL can induce apoptosis in tumour cells, while sparing healthy cells. Over the last three decades, this tumour selectivity has prompted many studies aiming at evaluating the anti-tumoral potential of TRAIL or its derivatives. Although most of these attempts have failed, so far, novel formulations are still being evaluated. However, emerging evidence indicates that TRAIL can also trigger a non-canonical signal transduction pathway that is likely to be detrimental for its use in oncology. Likewise, an increasing number of studies suggest that in some circumstances TRAIL can induce, via Death receptor 5 (DR5), tumour cell motility, potentially leading to and contributing to tumour metastasis. While the pro-apoptotic signal transduction machinery of TRAIL is well known from a mechanistic point of view, that of the non-canonical pathway is less understood. In this study, we the current state of knowledge of TRAIL non-canonical signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abderrahmane Guerrache
- Université de Bourgogne, 21000 Dijon, France
- INSERM Research Center U1231, «Equipe DesCarTes», 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Olivier Micheau
- Université de Bourgogne, 21000 Dijon, France
- INSERM Research Center U1231, «Equipe DesCarTes», 21000 Dijon, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence LipSTIC, 21000 Dijon, France
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4
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Siegmund D, Zaitseva O, Wajant H. Fn14 and TNFR2 as regulators of cytotoxic TNFR1 signaling. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1267837. [PMID: 38020877 PMCID: PMC10657838 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1267837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 1 (TNFR1), TNFR2 and fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) belong to the TNF receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). From a structural point of view, TNFR1 is a prototypic death domain (DD)-containing receptor. In contrast to other prominent death receptors, such as CD95/Fas and the two TRAIL death receptors DR4 and DR5, however, liganded TNFR1 does not instruct the formation of a plasma membrane-associated death inducing signaling complex converting procaspase-8 into highly active mature heterotetrameric caspase-8 molecules. Instead, liganded TNFR1 recruits the DD-containing cytoplasmic signaling proteins TRADD and RIPK1 and empowers these proteins to trigger cell death signaling by cytosolic complexes after their release from the TNFR1 signaling complex. The activity and quality (apoptosis versus necroptosis) of TNF-induced cell death signaling is controlled by caspase-8, the caspase-8 regulatory FLIP proteins, TRAF2, RIPK1 and the RIPK1-ubiquitinating E3 ligases cIAP1 and cIAP2. TNFR2 and Fn14 efficiently recruit TRAF2 along with the TRAF2 binding partners cIAP1 and cIAP2 and can thereby limit the availability of these molecules for other TRAF2/cIAP1/2-utilizing proteins including TNFR1. Accordingly, at the cellular level engagement of TNFR2 or Fn14 inhibits TNFR1-induced RIPK1-mediated effects reaching from activation of the classical NFκB pathway to induction of apoptosis and necroptosis. In this review, we summarize the effects of TNFR2- and Fn14-mediated depletion of TRAF2 and the cIAP1/2 on TNFR1 signaling at the molecular level and discuss the consequences this has in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Harald Wajant
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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5
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Siegmund D, Wajant H. TNF and TNF receptors as therapeutic targets for rheumatic diseases and beyond. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2023; 19:576-591. [PMID: 37542139 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-023-01002-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
The cytokine TNF signals via two distinct receptors, TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) and TNFR2, and is a central mediator of various immune-mediated diseases. Indeed, TNF-neutralizing biologic drugs have been in clinical use for the treatment of many inflammatory pathological conditions, including various rheumatic diseases, for decades. TNF has pleiotropic effects and can both promote and inhibit pro-inflammatory processes. The integrated net effect of TNF in vivo is a result of cytotoxic TNFR1 signalling and the stimulation of pro-inflammatory processes mediated by TNFR1 and TNFR2 and also TNFR2-mediated anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective activities. Inhibition of the beneficial activities of TNFR2 might explain why TNF-neutralizing drugs, although highly effective in some diseases, have limited benefit in the treatment of other TNF-associated pathological conditions (such as graft-versus-host disease) or even worsen the pathological condition (such as multiple sclerosis). Receptor-specific biologic drugs have the potential to tip the balance from TNFR1-mediated activities to TNFR2-mediated activities and enable the treatment of diseases that do not respond to current TNF inhibitors. Accordingly, a variety of reagents have been developed that either selectively inhibit TNFR1 or selectively activate TNFR2. Several of these reagents have shown promise in preclinical studies and are now in, or approaching, clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Siegmund
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Harald Wajant
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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6
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Vunnam N, Been M, Huber E, Paulson C, Szymonski S, Hackel BJ, Sachs JN. Discovery of a Non-competitive TNFR1 Antagonist Affibody with Picomolar Monovalent Potency That Does Not Affect TNFR2 Function. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:1884-1897. [PMID: 36897792 PMCID: PMC10849843 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a key regulator of immune responses and plays a significant role in the initiation and maintenance of inflammation. Upregulation of TNF expression leads to several inflammatory diseases, such as Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Despite the clinical success of anti-TNF treatments, the use of these therapies is limited because they can induce adverse side effects through inhibition of TNF biological activity, including blockade of TNF-induced immunosuppressive function of TNFR2. Using yeast display, we identified a synthetic affibody ligand (ABYTNFR1-1) with high binding affinity and specificity for TNFR1. Functional assays showed that the lead affibody potently inhibits TNF-induced NF-κB activation (IC50 of 0.23 nM) and, crucially, does not block the TNFR2 function. Additionally, ABYTNFR1-1 acts non-competitively─it does not block TNF binding or inhibit receptor-receptor interactions in pre-ligand-assembled dimers─thereby enhancing inhibitory robustness. The mechanism, monovalent potency, and affibody scaffold give this lead molecule uniquely strong potential as a therapeutic candidate for inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagamani Vunnam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - MaryJane Been
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Evan Huber
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Carolyn Paulson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Sophia Szymonski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Benjamin J. Hackel
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jonathan N. Sachs
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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7
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Vugler A, O’Connell J, Nguyen MA, Weitz D, Leeuw T, Hickford E, Verbitsky A, Ying X, Rehberg M, Carrington B, Merriman M, Moss A, Nicholas JM, Stanley P, Wright S, Bourne T, Foricher Y, Brookings D, Horsley H, Herrmann M, Rao S, Kohlmann M, Florian P. An orally available small molecule that targets soluble TNF to deliver anti-TNF biologic-like efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1037983. [PMID: 36467083 PMCID: PMC9709720 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1037983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a pleiotropic cytokine belonging to a family of trimeric proteins with both proinflammatory and immunoregulatory functions. TNF is a key mediator in autoimmune diseases and during the last couple of decades several biologic drugs have delivered new therapeutic options for patients suffering from chronic autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Attempts to design small molecule therapies directed to this cytokine have not led to approved products yet. Here we report the discovery and development of a potent small molecule inhibitor of TNF that was recently moved into phase 1 clinical trials. The molecule, SAR441566, stabilizes an asymmetrical form of the soluble TNF trimer, compromises downstream signaling and inhibits the functions of TNF in vitro and in vivo. With SAR441566 being studied in healthy volunteers we hope to deliver a more convenient orally bioavailable and effective treatment option for patients suffering with chronic autoimmune diseases compared to established biologic drugs targeting TNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Vugler
- Immunology Therapeutic Area, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - James O’Connell
- Discovery Sciences, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - Mai Anh Nguyen
- Sanofi R&D, TMED Pharmacokinetics Dynamics and Metabolism, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Dietmar Weitz
- Sanofi R&D, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Leeuw
- Sanofi R&D, Type 1/17 Immunology, Immunology & Inflammation Research TA, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Elizabeth Hickford
- Development Science, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | | | - Xiaoyou Ying
- Sanofi R&D, Translation In vivo Models, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Markus Rehberg
- Sanofi R&D, Translational Disease Modelling, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Bruce Carrington
- Discovery Sciences, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Merriman
- Immunology Therapeutic Area, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Moss
- Translational Medicine Immunology, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - Jean-Marie Nicholas
- Development Science, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, UCB Pharma, Braine-I’Alleud, Belgium
| | - Phil Stanley
- Immunology Therapeutic Area, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Wright
- Early PV Missions, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Bourne
- Milvuswood Consultancy, Penn, United Kingdom
| | - Yann Foricher
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, Medicinal Chemistry, Therapeutic Area Immunology & Inflammation, Vitry-sur-Seine, France
| | - Daniel Brookings
- Global Chemistry, Discovery Sciences, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Horsley
- Global Chemistry, Discovery Sciences, PV Early Solutions, UCB Pharma, Slough, United Kingdom
| | - Matthias Herrmann
- Sanofi R&D, Type 1/17 Immunology, Immunology & Inflammation Research TA, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Srinivas Rao
- Sanofi R&D, Translation In vivo Models, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Markus Kohlmann
- Sanofi R&D, Early Clinical Development, Therapeutic Area Immunology and Inflammation, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Peter Florian
- Sanofi R&D, Type 1/17 Immunology, Immunology & Inflammation Research TA, Frankfurt, Germany
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8
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Evangelatos G, Bamias G, Kitas GD, Kollias G, Sfikakis PP. The second decade of anti-TNF-a therapy in clinical practice: new lessons and future directions in the COVID-19 era. Rheumatol Int 2022; 42:1493-1511. [PMID: 35503130 PMCID: PMC9063259 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-022-05136-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Since the late 1990s, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors (anti-TNFs) have revolutionized the therapy of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) affecting the gut, joints, skin and eyes. Although the therapeutic armamentarium in IMIDs is being constantly expanded, anti-TNFs remain the cornerstone of their treatment. During the second decade of their application in clinical practice, a large body of additional knowledge has accumulated regarding various aspects of anti-TNF-α therapy, whereas new indications have been added. Recent experimental studies have shown that anti-TNFs exert their beneficial effects not only by restoring aberrant TNF-mediated immune mechanisms, but also by de-activating pathogenic fibroblast-like mesenchymal cells. Real-world data on millions of patients further confirmed the remarkable efficacy of anti-TNFs. It is now clear that anti-TNFs alter the physical course of inflammatory arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, leading to inhibition of local and systemic bone loss and to a decline in the number of surgeries for disease-related complications, while anti-TNFs improve morbidity and mortality, acting beneficially also on cardiovascular comorbidities. On the other hand, no new safety signals emerged, whereas anti-TNF-α safety in pregnancy and amid the COVID-19 pandemic was confirmed. The use of biosimilars was associated with cost reductions making anti-TNFs more widely available. Moreover, the current implementation of the "treat-to-target" approach and treatment de-escalation strategies of IMIDs were based on anti-TNFs. An intensive search to discover biomarkers to optimize response to anti-TNF-α treatment is currently ongoing. Finally, selective targeting of TNF-α receptors, new forms of anti-TNFs and combinations with other agents, are being tested in clinical trials and will probably expand the spectrum of TNF-α inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for IMIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerasimos Evangelatos
- Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Giorgos Bamias
- Gastrointestinal Unit, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George D Kitas
- Department of Rheumatology, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, Dudley, UK
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - George Kollias
- Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Institute for Bioinnovation, Biomedical Sciences Research Center "Alexander Fleming", Vari, Greece
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Petros P Sfikakis
- Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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9
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Jiang L, Han X, Qiu W, Yu T, Feng R, Wang X, Duan X, Deng GM. Amelioration of Lupus Serum-Induced Skin Inflammation in CD64-Deficient Mice. Front Immunol 2022; 13:824008. [PMID: 35273604 PMCID: PMC8901504 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.824008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disorder characterized by high autoantibodies levels and multiorgan tissue damage. The current study investigated the role of CD64 in SLE patients and animal models. According to a flow cytometry study, SLE patients showed an increase in CD64 expression in circulating monocytes. There was a correlation between CD64 and SLEDAI, blood urea nitrogen levels, and anti-Sm antibodies. In skin lesions of lupus MRL/lpr mice, there was high IgG deposition and CD64 expression. In vitro, cytokines IL-10 and IFN-γ upregulated CD64 expression in monocytes/macrophages that was inhibited by glucocorticoids. In CD64-deficient mice, skin inflammation induced by lupus serum was reduced. Furthermore, activation of spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), Akt, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk) was inhibited in CD64-deficient monocytes. The results suggest that CD64 could be a biomarker for observing SLE progression, as well as a mechanistic checkpoint in lupus pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Han
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenlin Qiu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ruizhi Feng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuefei Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoru Duan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guo-Min Deng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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10
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Ghorbaninezhad F, Leone P, Alemohammad H, Najafzadeh B, Nourbakhsh NS, Prete M, Malerba E, Saeedi H, Tabrizi NJ, Racanelli V, Baradaran B. Tumor necrosis factor‑α in systemic lupus erythematosus: Structure, function and therapeutic implications (Review). Int J Mol Med 2022; 49:43. [PMID: 35137914 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2022.5098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor‑α (TNF‑α) is a pleiotropic pro‑inflammatory cytokine that contributes to the pathophysiology of several autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The specific role of TNF‑α in autoimmunity is not yet fully understood however, partially, in a complex disease such as SLE. Through the engagement of the TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) and TNF receptor 2 (TNFR2), both the two variants, soluble and transmembrane TNF‑α, can exert multiple biological effects according to different settings. They can either function as immune regulators, impacting B‑, T‑ and dendritic cell activity, modulating the autoimmune response, or as pro‑inflammatory mediators, regulating the induction and maintenance of inflammatory processes in SLE. The present study reviews the dual role of TNF‑α, focusing on the different effects that TNF‑α may have on the pathogenesis of SLE. In addition, the efficacy and safety of anti‑TNF‑α therapies in preclinical and clinical trials SLE are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Ghorbaninezhad
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, East Azerbaijan 5165665811, Iran
| | - Patrizia Leone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, 'Aldo Moro' University of Bari Medical School, I‑70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Hajar Alemohammad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, East Azerbaijan 5166616471, Iran
| | - Basira Najafzadeh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, East Azerbaijan 5166616471, Iran
| | - Niloufar Sadat Nourbakhsh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Kazerun Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kazerun, Fars 7319846451, Iran
| | - Marcella Prete
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, 'Aldo Moro' University of Bari Medical School, I‑70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Malerba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, 'Aldo Moro' University of Bari Medical School, I‑70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Hossein Saeedi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, East Azerbaijan 5165665811, Iran
| | - Neda Jalili Tabrizi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, East Azerbaijan 5165665811, Iran
| | - Vito Racanelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, 'Aldo Moro' University of Bari Medical School, I‑70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, East Azerbaijan 5165665811, Iran
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11
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Qiu W, Yu T, Deng GM. The role of organ-deposited IgG in the pathogenesis of multi-organ and tissue damage in systemic lupus erythematosus. Front Immunol 2022; 13:924766. [PMID: 36311714 PMCID: PMC9609414 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.924766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), often known simply as lupus, is a severe chronic autoimmune disease that is characterized by multi-organ and tissue damage and high levels of autoantibodies in serum. We have recently investigated, using animal models, the role of organ-deposited IgG autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of organ and tissue damage in SLE. We found that intra-organ injection of serum from mice with lupus (i.e., lupus mice) into healthy mice triggered inflammation in tissue and organs but that serum from other healthy mice did not, and that the severity of inflammation was related to the dose of serum injected. Immunohistochemistry showed that a large number of IgG molecules are deposited at the site of organ and tissue damage in lupus mice, and that IgG is a major contributor to the development of tissue inflammation triggered by serum from lupus mice or patients. The development of tissue inflammation induced by IgG in serum from lupus mice requires the presence of monocytes/macrophages, but not of lymphocytes or neutrophils; tumor necrosis factor (TNF)/tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) and interleukin 1 (IL-1) also play essential roles in the development of tissue inflammation triggered by IgG. In addition, it has been found that TNFR1 inhibitors can suppress skin injury in lupus mice and that spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) inhibitors, which can block the signaling transduction of IgG/Fc gamma receptors (FcγRs), can prevent and treat skin injury and kidney damage in lupus mice. We have also observed that lupus IgG might protect against bone erosion. Based on these results, we conclude that IgG plays a crucial role in the development of organ and tissue damage in SLE and in protecting bone erosion and arthritis, and we suggest that the IgG/FcγR signaling pathway is an important therapeutic target in SLE.
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Albogami S, Todd I, Negm O, Fairclough LC, Tighe PJ. Mutations in the binding site of TNFR1 PLAD reduce homologous interactions but can enhance antagonism of wild-type TNFR1 activity. Immunology 2021; 164:637-654. [PMID: 34363702 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumour necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) members contain cysteine-rich domains (CRD) in their extracellular regions, and the membrane-distal CRD1 forms homologous interactions in the absence of ligand. The CRD1 is therefore termed a pre-ligand assembly domain (PLAD). The role of PLAD-PLAD interactions in the induction of signalling as a consequence of TNF-TNFR binding led to the development of soluble PLAD domains as antagonists of TNFR activation. In the present study, we generated recombinant wild-type (WT) PLAD of TNFR1 and mutant forms with single alanine substitutions of amino acid residues thought to be critical for the formation of homologous dimers and/or trimers of PLAD (K19A, T31A, D49A and D52A). These mutated PLADs were compared with WT PLAD as antagonists of TNF-induced apoptosis or the activation of inflammatory signalling pathways. Unlike WT PLAD, the mutated PLADs showed little or no homologous interactions, confirming the importance of particular amino acids as contact residues in the PLAD binding region. However, as with WT PLAD, the mutated PLADs functioned as antagonists of TNF-induced TNFR1 activity leading to induction of cell death or NF-κB signalling. Indeed, some of the mutant PLADs, and K19A PLAD in particular, showed enhanced antagonistic activity compared with WT PLAD. This is consistent with the reduced formation of homologous multimers by these PLAD mutants effectively increasing the concentration of PLAD available to bind and antagonize WT TNFR1 when compared to WT PLAD acting as an antagonist. This may have implications for the development of antagonistic PLADs as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Albogami
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Department of Biotechnology, School of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ian Todd
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ola Negm
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Patrick J Tighe
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Pohlmeyer CW, Shang C, Han P, Cui ZH, Jones RM, Clarke AS, Murray BP, Lopez DA, Newstrom DW, Inzunza MD, Matzkies FG, Currie KS, Di Paolo JA. Characterization of the mechanism of action of lanraplenib, a novel spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in models of lupus nephritis. BMC Rheumatol 2021; 5:15. [PMID: 33781343 PMCID: PMC8008554 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-021-00178-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background B cells are critical mediators of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN), and antinuclear antibodies can be found in the serum of approximately 98% of patients with SLE. Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase that mediates signaling from immunoreceptors, including the B cell receptor. Active, phosphorylated SYK has been observed in tissues from patients with SLE or cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and its inhibition is hypothesized to ameliorate disease pathogenesis. We sought to evaluate the efficacy and characterize the mechanism of action of lanraplenib, a selective oral SYK inhibitor, in the New Zealand black/white (NZB/W) murine model of SLE and LN. Methods Lanraplenib was evaluated for inhibition of primary human B cell functions in vitro. Furthermore, the effect of SYK inhibition on ameliorating LN-like disease in vivo was determined by treating NZB/W mice with lanraplenib, cyclophosphamide, or a vehicle control. Glomerulopathy and immunoglobulin G (IgG) deposition were quantified in kidneys. The concentration of proinflammatory cytokines was measured in serum. Splenocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry for B cell maturation and T cell memory maturation, and the presence of T follicular helper and dendritic cells. Results In human B cells in vitro, lanraplenib inhibited B cell activating factor-mediated survival as well as activation, maturation, and immunoglobulin M production. Treatment of NZB/W mice with lanraplenib improved overall survival, prevented the development of proteinuria, and reduced blood urea nitrogen concentrations. Kidney morphology was significantly preserved by treatment with lanraplenib as measured by glomerular diameter, protein cast severity, interstitial inflammation, vasculitis, and frequency of glomerular crescents; treatment with lanraplenib reduced glomerular IgG deposition. Mice treated with lanraplenib had reduced concentrations of serum proinflammatory cytokines. Lanraplenib blocked disease-driven B cell maturation and T cell memory maturation in the spleen. Conclusions Lanraplenib blocked the progression of LN-like disease in NZB/W mice. Human in vitro and murine in vivo data suggest that lanraplenib may be efficacious in preventing disease progression in patients with LN at least in part by inhibiting B cell maturation. These data provide additional rationale for the use of lanraplenib in the treatment of SLE and LN. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41927-021-00178-3.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ching Shang
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Pei Han
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Zhi-Hua Cui
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Randall M Jones
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Astrid S Clarke
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Bernard P Murray
- Department of Drug Metabolism, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | - David A Lopez
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - David W Newstrom
- Department of Nonclinical Safety and Pathobiology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | - M David Inzunza
- Department of Nonclinical Safety and Pathobiology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | | | - Kevin S Currie
- Department of Chemistry, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | - Julie A Di Paolo
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
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Bettacchioli E, Le Gaffric C, Mazeas M, Borghi MO, Frostegard J, Barturen G, Makowska Z, Babei S, Lesche R, Meroni PL, Alarcon-Riquelme ME, Renaudineau Y. An elevated polyclonal free light chain level reflects a strong interferon signature in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases. J Transl Autoimmun 2021; 4:100090. [PMID: 33817614 PMCID: PMC8010703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtauto.2021.100090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
High amount of polyclonal free light chains (FLC) are reported in systemic autoimmune diseases (SAD) and we took advantage of the PRECISESADS study to better characterize them. Serum FLC levels were explored in 1979 patients with SAD (RA, SLE, SjS, Scl, APS, UCTD, MCTD) and 614 healthy controls. Information regarding clinical parameters, disease activity, medications, autoantibodies (Ab) and the interferon α and/or γ scores were recorded. Among SAD patients, 28.4% had raised total FLC (from 12% in RA to 30% in SLE and APS) with a normal kappa/lambda ratio. Total FLC levels were significantly higher in SAD with inflammation, active disease in SLE and SjS, and an impaired pulmonary functional capacity in SSc, while independent from kidney impairment, infection, cancer and treatment. Total FLC concentrations were positively correlated among the 10/17 (58.8%) autoantibodies (Ab) tested with anti-RNA binding protein Ab (SSB, SSA-52/60 kDa, Sm, U1-RNP), anti-dsDNA/nucleosome Ab, rheumatoid factor and negatively correlated with complement fractions C3/C4. Finally, examination of interferon (IFN) expression as a potential driver of FLC overexpression was tested showing an elevated level of total FLC among patients with a high IFNα and IFNγ Kirou's score, a strong IFN modular score, and the detection in the sera of B-cell IFN dependent factors, such as TNF-R1/TNFRSF1A and CXCL10/IP10. In conclusion, an elevated level of FLC, in association with a strong IFN signature, defines a subgroup of SAD patients, including those without renal affectation, characterized by increased disease activity, autoreactivity, and complement reduction.
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Key Words
- APS, primary antiphospholipid syndrome
- AUC, area under the curve
- Ab, autoantibody
- Autoantibodies
- Autoimmune diseases
- CCP, cyclic citrulinated peptide
- CXCL10, C-X-C motif chemokine 10
- F, female
- FLC, free light chains
- Free light chains
- HC, healthy controls
- IFN, interferon
- Interferon signature
- M, male
- MCTD, mixed connective tissue disease
- MDA, malondialdehyde
- NK, natural killer
- PC, phosphorylcholine
- RA, rheumatoid arthritis
- RF, rheumatoid factor
- RNP, ribonucleoprotein
- ROC, Receiver Operating Characteristics
- SAD, systemic autoimmune diseases
- SD, standard deviation
- SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus
- Scl, systemic sclerosis
- SjS, Sjögren's syndrome
- TH1, T helper type 1
- TNF-R1, tumor necrosis factor receptor 1
- UCTD, undetermined connective tissue disease
- VAS, visual analogical scale
- κ, kappa
- λ, lambda
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Margaux Mazeas
- Laboratory of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CHRU Morvan, Brest, France
| | - Maria Orietta Borghi
- Immunorheumatology Research Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Johan Frostegard
- Section of Immunology and Chronic Disease, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Guillermo Barturen
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, Granada, 18016, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Pier Luigi Meroni
- Immunorheumatology Research Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta E. Alarcon-Riquelme
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, Granada, 18016, Spain
| | - Yves Renaudineau
- Laboratory of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CHRU Morvan, Brest, France
- Univ Brest, INSERM, LBAI, 29238, Brest Cedex 3, France
- Corresponding author. Laboratory of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CHRU Morvan, Brest, France.
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15
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Kucka K, Wajant H. Receptor Oligomerization and Its Relevance for Signaling by Receptors of the Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:615141. [PMID: 33644033 PMCID: PMC7905041 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.615141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
With the exception of a few signaling incompetent decoy receptors, the receptors of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) are signaling competent and engage in signaling pathways resulting in inflammation, proliferation, differentiation, and cell migration and also in cell death induction. TNFRSF receptors (TNFRs) become activated by ligands of the TNF superfamily (TNFSF). TNFSF ligands (TNFLs) occur as trimeric type II transmembrane proteins but often also as soluble ligand trimers released from the membrane-bound form by proteolysis. The signaling competent TNFRs are efficiently activated by the membrane-bound TNFLs. The latter recruit three TNFR molecules, but there is growing evidence that this is not sufficient to trigger all aspects of TNFR signaling; rather, the formed trimeric TNFL–TNFR complexes have to cluster secondarily in the cell-to-cell contact zone for full TNFR activation. With respect to their response to soluble ligand trimers, the signaling competent TNFRs can be subdivided into two groups. TNFRs of one group, designated as category I TNFRs, are robustly activated by soluble ligand trimers. The receptors of a second group (category II TNFRs), however, failed to become properly activated by soluble ligand trimers despite high affinity binding. The limited responsiveness of category II TNFRs to soluble TNFLs can be overcome by physical linkage of two or more soluble ligand trimers or, alternatively, by anchoring the soluble ligand molecules to the cell surface or extracellular matrix. This suggests that category II TNFRs have a limited ability to promote clustering of trimeric TNFL–TNFR complexes outside the context of cell–cell contacts. In this review, we will focus on three aspects on the relevance of receptor oligomerization for TNFR signaling: (i) the structural factors which promote clustering of free and liganded TNFRs, (ii) the signaling pathway specificity of the receptor oligomerization requirement, and (iii) the consequences for the design and development of TNFR agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin Kucka
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Harald Wajant
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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16
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Yu C, Chen S, Zhou B, Zhang H, Su X, Luo Y, Yang L. A novel BAFF antagonist, BAFF-Trap, effectively alleviates the disease progression of systemic lupus erythematosus in MRL/lpr mice. Mol Immunol 2020; 129:1-11. [PMID: 33254074 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2020.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal B cells, which produce antibodies against self-antigens, play a key role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). B-cell activating factor (BAFF) is closely associated with abnormal B cells and participates in B cell-mediated autoimmune diseases; thus, neutralizing BAFF is an effective method for treating these diseases. Our group designed a novel fusion protein, BAFF-Trap, that contains the BAFF-binding domains of two BAFF receptors (TACI and BAFF-R) and the Fc domain of human IgG1. In this study, we showed that BAFF-Trap significantly decreased the autoantibody levels, BAFF concentrations and B cells numbers in MRL/lpr mice. BAFF-Trap suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the kidney and decreased the frequencies of T cell subsets and dendritic cells. Furthermore, BAFF-Trap reduced proteinuria and IgG deposition, relieved glomerular damage in the kidney, and markedly improved the survival rate of mice. These results indicated that BAFF-Trap may be a potential drug for the treatment of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoheng Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bailing Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hailong Zhang
- Joint National Laboratory for Antibody Drug Engineering, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China; Henan Engineering Laboratory of Antibody Medicine, Henan International United Laboratory of Antibody Medicine, Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, College of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoqing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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17
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Vunnam N, Szymonski S, Hirsova P, Gores GJ, Sachs JN, Hackel BJ. Noncompetitive Allosteric Antagonism of Death Receptor 5 by a Synthetic Affibody Ligand. Biochemistry 2020; 59:3856-3868. [PMID: 32941010 PMCID: PMC7658720 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.0c00529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Fatty acid-induced upregulation of death receptor 5 (DR5) and its cognate ligand, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), promotes hepatocyte lipoapoptosis, which is a key mechanism in the progression of fatty liver disease. Accordingly, inhibition of DR5 signaling represents an attractive strategy for treating fatty liver disease. Ligand competition strategies are prevalent in tumor necrosis factor receptor antagonism, but recent studies have suggested that noncompetitive inhibition through perturbation of the receptor conformation may be a compelling alternative. To this end, we used yeast display and a designed combinatorial library to identify a synthetic 58-amino acid affibody ligand that specifically binds DR5. Biophysical and biochemical studies show that the affibody neither blocks TRAIL binding nor prevents the receptor-receptor interaction. Live-cell fluorescence lifetime measurements indicate that the affibody induces a conformational change in transmembrane dimers of DR5 and favors an inactive state of the receptor. The affibody inhibits apoptosis in TRAIL-treated Huh-7 cells, an in vitro model of fatty liver disease. Thus, this lead affibody serves as a potential drug candidate, with a unique mechanism of action, for fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagamani Vunnam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Sophia Szymonski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Petra Hirsova
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Gregory J. Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Jonathan N. Sachs
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Benjamin J. Hackel
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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18
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Qiao W, Ding H, Zuo Y, Jiang L, Zhou J, Han X, Yu L, Du R, M Hedrich C, Deng GM. Lupus IgG deposition causes arthritis but inhibits bone destruction through competitive occupation of FcγRI and reduced RANKL signalling. Clin Transl Immunology 2020; 9:e1174. [PMID: 32994999 PMCID: PMC7507387 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Bone destruction is a remarkable feature of inflammatory arthritis. It remains unknown why arthritis associated with the systemic autoimmune/inflammatory condition systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) does not result in erosion and destruction. We aimed to determine the role of autoantibody in the pathogenesis of non-erosive arthritis in SLE. Methods We analysed medical record of SLE patients, investigated whether autoantibody induces arthritis lacking bone destruction in animal models and determined whether SLE autoantibody inhibits osteoclastogenesis induced by RANKL in vitro experiments. Results We found that arthritis lacking bone erosions is common in SLE patients and lupus-prone mice. Intraarticular injection of lupus serum or IgG induces immune complex deposition and arthritis, but does not result in bone destruction. Deposition of IgG, monocytes/macrophages and TNF-α is all required for the development of arthritis. Lupus serum or IgG inhibits RANKL-induced differentiation of monocytes into osteoclast in a dose-dependent manner. FcγR acts as co-receptors for RANKL and is involved in osteoclastogenesis. Deficiency of FcγRII or FcγRIII does not affect osteoclastogenesis in the presence of SLE IgG. However, lupus IgG competes for FcγRI binding with RANKL, thereby reducing osteoclastogenesis. Conclusion Observations from this study demonstrate that IgG from SLE patients can induce arthritis and inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis through competitive occupation of FcγRI on monocytes/macrophages. This study improves the understanding of the pathophysiology of SLE-associated arthritis and offers a protective mechanism (FcγRI inhibition) that may be targeted in other forms of autoimmune/inflammatory arthritis, such as RA, to prevent or limit bone erosion and inflammatory bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Qiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory The fourth affiliated hospital of Nanjing Medical University Nanjing China
| | - Huimin Ding
- Department of Orthopedics BenQ Medical Center The affiliated BenQ Hospital of Nanjing Medical University Nanjing China
| | - Yuyue Zuo
- Department of Rheumatology Union Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Lijuan Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology Union Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Jiayuan Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology Union Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Xiaoxiao Han
- Department of Rheumatology Union Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Likai Yu
- Department of Rheumatology Union Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Rong Du
- Department of Rheumatology Union Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Christian M Hedrich
- Department of Women's & Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - Guo-Min Deng
- Department of Rheumatology Union Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
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19
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The contribution of macrophages to systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Immunol 2019; 207:1-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2019.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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20
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Wajant H, Beilhack A. Targeting Regulatory T Cells by Addressing Tumor Necrosis Factor and Its Receptors in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation and Cancer. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2040. [PMID: 31555271 PMCID: PMC6724557 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
An intricate network of molecular and cellular actors orchestrates the delicate balance between effector immune responses and immune tolerance. The pleiotropic cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) proves as a pivotal protagonist promoting but also suppressing immune responses. These opposite actions are accomplished through specialist cell types responding to TNF via TNF receptors TNFR1 and TNFR2. Recent findings highlight the importance of TNFR2 as a key regulator of activated natural FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in inflammatory conditions, such as acute graft-vs.-host disease (GvHD) and the tumor microenvironment. Here we review recent advances in our understanding of TNFR2 signaling in T cells and discuss how these can reconcile seemingly conflicting observations when manipulating TNF and TNFRs. As TNFR2 emerges as a new and attractive target we furthermore pinpoint strategies and potential pitfalls for therapeutic targeting of TNFR2 for cancer treatment and immune tolerance after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Wajant
- Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Beilhack
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Center for Interdisciplinary Clinical Research, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Else-Kröner-Forschungskolleg Würzburg, Würzburg University Hospital, Würzburg University, Würzburg, Germany
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21
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22
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Braegelmann C, Hölzel M, Ludbrook V, Dickson M, Turan N, Ferring-Schmitt S, Sternberg S, Bieber T, Kuhn A, Wenzel J. Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a potential target for the treatment of cutaneous lupus erythematosus patients. Exp Dermatol 2018; 25:375-9. [PMID: 26910509 DOI: 10.1111/exd.12986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a protein kinase involved in cell proliferation and the regulation of inflammatory pathways. Due to the increasing evidence that kinase inhibitors have potential as specific anti-inflammatory drugs, we have investigated the potential for SYK inhibition as a therapeutic target in autoimmune diseases, particularly cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE). Skin samples of patients with different CLE subtypes and appropriate controls were analysed for the expression of SYK and SYK-associated pro-inflammatory mediators via gene expression analysis and immunohistochemistry. The functional role of SYK in keratinocytes was investigated in vitro, using LE-typical pro-inflammatory stimuli and a selective inhibitor of SYK. SYK-associated genes are strongly upregulated in CLE skin lesions. Importantly, phosphorylated SYK (pSYK) is strongly expressed by several immune cell types and also keratinocytes in CLE skin. In vitro, immunostimulatory nucleic acids are capable of inducing SYK phosphorylation in keratinocytes leading to the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, while small-molecule SYK inhibition decreases the expression of these proteins. The results demonstrate that pSYK is expressed by immune cells and keratinocytes in skin lesions of CLE patients. LE-typical stimuli induce the expression of pSYK in vitro. Small-molecule SYK inhibition leads to a reduction of pSYK expression and downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines in keratinocytes. We therefore believe that pSYK provides a potential future drug target for the treatment of patients who suffer from CLE and related skin disorders. Specifically, our study reveals evidence supporting the use of topical SYK inhibitors in treating lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Hölzel
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Sonja Sternberg
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Bieber
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Annegret Kuhn
- Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Trials (IZKS), University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Joerg Wenzel
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Li X, Guo X, Liu H, Gao G, Xu G, Fei X, Fang X, Qiao W, Deng GM. Skin inflammation induced by lupus serum was inhibited in IL-1R deficient mice. Clin Immunol 2017; 180:63-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2017.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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P-Selectin preserves immune tolerance in mice and is reduced in human cutaneous lupus. Sci Rep 2017; 7:41841. [PMID: 28150814 PMCID: PMC5288776 DOI: 10.1038/srep41841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mice deficient in P-Selectin presented altered immunity/tolerance balance. We have observed that the absence of P-Selectin promotes splenomegaly with reduced naïve T cell population, elevated activated/effector T cell subset, increased germinal center B and Tfh populations and high production of autoreactive antibodies. Moreover, 1.5-3-month-old P-selectin KO mice showed reduced IL-10-producing leukocytes in blood and a slightly reduced Treg population in the skin. With aging and, coinciding with disease severity, there is an increase in the IL17+ circulating and dermal T cell subpopulations and reduction of dermal Treg. As a consequence, P-Selectin deficient mice developed a progressive autoimmune syndrome showing skin alterations characteristic of lupus prone mice and elevated circulating autoantibodies, including anti-dsDNA. Similar to human SLE, disease pathogenesis was characterized by deposition of immune complexes in the dermoepidermal junction and renal glomeruli, and a complex pattern of autoantibodies. More important, skin biopsies of cutaneous lupus erythematosus patients did not show increased expression of P-Selectin, as described for other inflammatory diseases, and the number of vessels expressing P-Selectin was reduced.
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Deng GM, Tsokos GC. The role of Syk in cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Exp Dermatol 2016; 25:674-5. [PMID: 26999068 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Min Deng
- Key Laboratory of Antibody Techniques of Ministry of Health, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - George C Tsokos
- Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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The features of skin inflammation induced by lupus serum. Clin Immunol 2016; 165:4-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2016.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Lieberman LA, Mizui M, Nalbandian A, Bossé R, Crispín JC, Tsokos GC. Complement receptor of the immunoglobulin superfamily reduces murine lupus nephritis and cutaneous disease. Clin Immunol 2015; 160:286-91. [PMID: 25988858 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2015.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 04/28/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Complement activation takes place in autoimmune diseases and accounts for tissue inflammation. Previously, complement inhibition has been considered for the treatment of SLE. Complement receptor of the immunoglobulin superfamily (CRIg) is a selective inhibitor of the alternative pathway of complement and a soluble form reverses established inflammation and bone destruction in experimental autoimmune arthritis. We asked whether specific inhibition of the alternative pathway could inhibit autoimmunity and/or organ damage in lupus-prone mice. Accordingly, we treated lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice with a soluble form of CRIg (CRIg-Fc) and we found that it significantly diminished skin lesions, proteinuria and pyuria, and kidney pathology. Interestingly, serum levels of anti-DNA antibodies were not affected despite the fact that serum complement 3 (C3) levels increased significantly. Immunofluorescent staining of kidney tissues revealed a reduction in staining intensity for C3, IgG, and the macrophage marker Mac-2. Thus our data show that inhibition of the alternative pathway of complement controls skin and kidney inflammation even in the absence of an effect on the production of autoantibodies. We propose that CRIg should be considered for clinical trials in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda A Lieberman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Masayuki Mizui
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Angèle Nalbandian
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Robin Bossé
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - José C Crispín
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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Moulton VR, Tsokos GC. T cell signaling abnormalities contribute to aberrant immune cell function and autoimmunity. J Clin Invest 2015; 125:2220-7. [PMID: 25961450 DOI: 10.1172/jci78087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototype systemic autoimmune disease that results from a break in immune tolerance to self-antigens, leading to multi-organ destruction. Autoantibody deposition and inflammatory cell infiltration in target organs such as kidneys and brain lead to complications of this disease. Dysregulation of cellular and humoral immune response elements, along with organ-defined molecular aberrations, form the basis of SLE pathogenesis. Aberrant T lymphocyte activation due to signaling abnormalities, linked to defective gene transcription and altered cytokine production, are important contributors to SLE pathophysiology. A better understanding of signaling and gene regulation defects in SLE T cells will lead to the identification of specific novel molecular targets and predictive biomarkers for therapy.
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Slight-Webb SR, Bagavant H, Crowe SR, James JA. Influenza A (H1N1) virus infection triggers severe pulmonary inflammation in lupus-prone mice following viral clearance. J Autoimmun 2015; 57:66-76. [PMID: 25563403 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2014.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2014] [Revised: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Each year, up to one fifth of the United States population is infected with influenza virus. Although mortality rates are low, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized each year in the United States. Specific high risk groups, such as those with suppressed or dysregulated immune systems, are at greater danger for influenza complications. Respiratory infections are a common cause of hospitalizations and early mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); however, whether this increased infection risk is a consequence of the underlying dysregulated immune background and/or immunosuppressing drugs is unknown. To evaluate the influenza immune response in the context of lupus, as well as assess the effect of infection on autoimmune disease in a controlled setting, we infected lupus-prone MRL/MpJ-Fas(lpr) mice with influenza virus A PR/8/34 H1N1. Interestingly, we found that Fas(lpr) mice generated more influenza A virus specific T cells with less neutrophil accumulation in the lung during acute infection. Moreover, Fas(lpr) mice produced fewer flu-specific IgG and IgM antibodies, but effectively cleared the virus. Further, increased extrinsic apoptosis during influenza infection led to a delay in autoimmune disease pathology with decreased severity of splenomegaly and kidney disease. Following primary influenza A infection, Fas(lpr) mice had severe complications during the contraction and resolution phase with widespread severe pulmonary inflammation. Our findings suggest that influenza infection may not exacerbate autoimmune pathology in mice during acute infection as a direct result of virus induced apoptosis. Additionally, autoimmunity drives an enhanced antigen-specific T cell response to clear the virus, but persisting pulmonary inflammation following viral clearance may cause complications in this lupus animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha R Slight-Webb
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Harini Bagavant
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Sherry R Crowe
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Judith A James
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA; Medicine and Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
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Abstract
This chapter describes reports of the structural characterization of death ligands and death receptors (DRs) from the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and TNF receptor families. The review discusses the interactions of these proteins with agonist ligands, inhibitors, and downstream signaling molecules. Though historically labeled as being implicated in programmed cell death, the function of these proteins extends to nonapoptotic pathways. The review highlights, from a structural biology perspective, the complexity of DR signaling and the ongoing challenge to discern the precise mechanisms that occur at the point of DR activation, including how the degree to which the receptors are induced to cluster may be related to the nature of the impact upon the cell. The potential for posttranslational modification and receptor internalization to play roles in DR signaling is briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C Driscoll
- Division of Molecular Structure, Medical Research Council, National Institute for Medical Research, London, United Kingdom.
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Abstract
The molecular biology revolution coupled with the development of monoclonal antibody technology enabled remarkable progress in rheumatology therapy, comprising an array of highly effective biologic agents. With advances in understanding of the molecular nature of immune cell receptors came elucidation of intracellular signalling pathways downstream of these receptors. These discoveries raise the question of whether selective targeting of key intracellular factors with small molecules would add to the rheumatologic armamentarium. In this Review, we discuss several examples of this therapeutic strategy that seem to be successful, and consider their implications for the future of immune-targeted treatments. We focus on kinase inhibitors, primarily those targeting Janus kinase family members and spleen tyrosine kinase, given their advanced status in clinical development and application. We also summarize other targets involved in signalling pathways that might offer promise for therapeutic intervention in the future.
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Shimp SK, Chafin CB, Regna NL, Hammond SE, Read MA, Caudell DL, Rylander M, Reilly CM. Heat shock protein 90 inhibition by 17-DMAG lessens disease in the MRL/lpr mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus. Cell Mol Immunol 2012; 9:255-66. [PMID: 22543833 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2012.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated expression of heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) has been found in kidneys and serum of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and MRL/Mp-Fas(lpr)/Fas(lpr) (MRL/lpr) autoimmune mice. We investigated if inhibition of HSP90 would reduce disease in MRL/lpr mice. In vitro, pretreatment of mesangial cells with HSP90 inhibitor Geldanamycin prior to immune-stimulation showed reduced expression of IL-6, IL-12 and NO. In vivo, we found HSP90 expression was elevated in MRL/lpr kidneys when compared to C57BL/6 mice and MRL/lpr mice treated with HSP90 inhibitor 17-DMAG. MRL/lpr mice treated with 17-DMAG showed decreased proteinuria and reduced serum anti-dsDNA antibody production. Glomerulonephritis and glomerular IgG and C3 were not significantly affected by administration of 17-DMAG in MRL/lpr. 17-DMAG increased CD8(+) T cells, reduced double-negative T cells, decreased the CD4/CD8 ratio and reduced follicular B cells. These studies suggest that HSP90 may play a role in regulating T-cell differentiation and activation and that HSP90 inhibition may reduce inflammation in lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel K Shimp
- Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Science, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 21061, USA.
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Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) is a potent target for GvHD prevention at different cellular levels. Leukemia 2012; 26:1617-29. [DOI: 10.1038/leu.2012.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Spleen tyrosine kinase promotes acute neutrophil-mediated glomerular injury via activation of JNK and p38 MAPK in rat nephrotoxic serum nephritis. J Transl Med 2011; 91:1727-38. [PMID: 21894146 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2011.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Glomerular antibody deposition induces acute neutrophil-mediated glomerular injury via activation of c-Jun amino terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). However, the link between antibody deposition and activation of JNK/p38 MAPK signalling is unclear. This study tested the postulate that spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), which is activated via Fcγ-receptor ligation, is required for activation of JNK and p38 signalling and acute neutrophil-mediated glomerular injury. We used a Syk inhibitor (SYKi) in rat nephrotoxic serum nephritis (NTN) in which neutrophil-mediated glomerular injury is dependent upon JNK and p38 signalling. SYKi or vehicle treatment of Sprague-Dawley rats began 30 min before administration of anti-GBM serum with rats killed 3 or 24 h later. Immunostaining identified de novo glomerular Syk activation (p-Tyr 525/526) in untreated NTN, being most prominent in neutrophils. Vehicle and untreated NTN exhibited heavy proteinuria and glomerular thrombosis at 24 h with P-selectin and fibrin immunostaining within capillaries, glomerular macrophage and T cell infiltration, activation of JNK and p38 MAPK signalling, and upregulation of glomerular mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory molecules (TNF-α, NOS2, MMP-12 and CCL2). In contrast, SYKi treatment provided complete protection from proteinuria, with a profound reduction in glomerular thrombosis and immunostaining for P-selectin and fibrin, and a substantial reduction in glomerular mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory molecules. SYKi treatment also reduced the acute glomerular neutrophil influx and pro-inflammatory response at 3 h in NTN. These protective effects were associated with a significant reduction in glomerular JNK and p38 MAPK activation. In addition, activation of Syk, JNK and p38 was identified in human biopsy samples of acute crescentic glomerulonephritis. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Syk signalling is required for JNK and p38 MAPK signalling and acute neutrophil-dependent glomerular injury in rat NTN. These findings identify Syk as a potential therapeutic target in antibody-dependent kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- George C Tsokos
- Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Abstract
There are many new therapeutic directions for the disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Despite this, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only one biological agent and it involves B cells, now thought to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of SLE. The name of the drug is belimumab, which is an agent that removes the B-cell cytokine called B lymphocyte stimulation factor (BLyS). Rituximab did not achieve its primary endpoints, even though the consensus is that it may be effective in some forms of SLE including renal disease. The anticytokine therapies against interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, IL-17 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) are effective in their own ways and phase II and III trials are in progress. Of particular interest to immunologists are the anti-interferon alpha and gamma drugs, which show promise in the animal models. Modulation of costimulatory molecules; specifically, the anti CD40, CTLA-***Ig and ICOS/B7RP blockade agents offer possibilities for the future using new pathways heretofore limited to rheumatoid arthritis. Finally, the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors is another direction that has been successful in the inhibition of SLE in the murine model; early trials in human SLE have begun.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Xiong
- Newark Beth Israel Medical Center — Rheumatology, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Robert G. Lahita
- Newark Beth Israel Medical Center — Rheumatology, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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Abstract
Although pivotal to the immune system homeostasis, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) becomes deleterious when de-regulated. The currently marketed TNF blockers are highly efficacious in rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, uveitis and inflammatory bowel disease; reactivation of tuberculosis and exacerbation of pre-existing multiple sclerosis remain their most important safety issues. The endogenous protein progranulin binds TNF receptor-1 (TNFR1) and TNFR2, thus blocking their interactions with TNF. Domains of the extracellular region of TNFR, termed preligand-binding assembly domain (PLAD), mediate receptor-chain trimerization which is essential for signaling. Therapeutic administration of either progranulin or soluble versions of TNFR1 PLAD in mouse models of diseases in which TNF is relevant yielded beneficial results, opening the door to the next generation of non-antibody anti-TNF drugs for a variety of non-infectious inflammatory conditions. Whether these drugs may target TNF in a more refined way than the current blockers, perhaps being more efficacious without compromising the protective role of TNF in host defense and (auto)immunity, remains to be seen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros P Sfikakis
- First Department of Propedeutic and Internal Medicine, Athens University Medical School, Greece
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Moulton VR, Tsokos GC. Abnormalities of T cell signaling in systemic lupus erythematosus. Arthritis Res Ther 2011; 13:207. [PMID: 21457530 PMCID: PMC3132009 DOI: 10.1186/ar3251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease resulting from a loss of tolerance to multiple self antigens, and characterized by autoantibody production and inflammatory cell infiltration in target organs, such as the kidneys and brain. T cells are critical players in SLE pathophysiology as they regulate B cell responses and also infiltrate target tissues, leading to tissue damage. Abnormal signaling events link to defective gene transcription and altered cytokine production, contributing to the aberrant phenotype of T cells in SLE. Study of signaling and gene transcription abnormalities in SLE T cells has led to the identification of novel targets for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaishali R Moulton
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Vinay DS, Kwon BS. The tumour necrosis factor/TNF receptor superfamily: therapeutic targets in autoimmune diseases. Clin Exp Immunol 2011; 164:145-57. [PMID: 21401577 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2011.04375.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are characterized by the body's ability to mount immune attacks on self. This results from recognition of self-proteins and leads to organ damage due to increased production of pathogenic inflammatory molecules and autoantibodies. Over the years, several new potential therapeutic targets have been identified in autoimmune diseases, notable among which are members of the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily. Here, we review the evidence that certain key members of this superfamily can augment/suppress autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Vinay
- Section of Clinical Immunology, Allergy, and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
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