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Torell A, Stockfelt M, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Akhter T, Leonard D, Rönnblom L, Pihl S, Saleh M, Sjöwall C, Strevens H, Jönsen A, Bengtsson AA, Trysberg E, Majczuk Sennström M, Zickert A, Svenungsson E, Gunnarsson I, Bylund J, Jacobsson B, Rudin A, Lundell AC. Low CD4 + T cell count is related to specific anti-nuclear antibodies, IFNα protein positivity and disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus pregnancy. Arthritis Res Ther 2024; 26:65. [PMID: 38459582 PMCID: PMC10924387 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-024-03301-0] [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] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphopenia, autoantibodies and activation of the type I interferon (IFN) system are common features in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We speculate whether lymphocyte subset counts are affected by pregnancy and if they relate to autoantibody profiles and/or IFNα protein in SLE pregnancy. METHODS Repeated blood samples were collected during pregnancy from 80 women with SLE and 51 healthy controls (HC). Late postpartum samples were obtained from 19 of the women with SLE. Counts of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells, B cells and NK cells were measured by flow cytometry. Positivity for anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) fine specificities (double-stranded DNA [dsDNA], Smith [Sm], ribonucleoprotein [RNP], chromatin, Sjögren's syndrome antigen A [SSA] and B [SSB]) and anti-phospholipid antibodies (cardiolipin [CL] and β2 glycoprotein I [β2GPI]) was assessed with multiplexed bead assay. IFNα protein concentration was quantified with Single molecule array (Simoa) immune assay. Clinical data were retrieved from medical records. RESULTS Women with SLE had lower counts of all lymphocyte subsets compared to HC throughout pregnancy, but counts did not differ during pregnancy compared to postpartum. Principal component analysis revealed that low lymphocyte subset counts differentially related to autoantibody profiles, cluster one (anti-dsDNA/anti-Sm/anti-RNP/anti-Sm/RNP/anti-chromatin), cluster two (anti-SSA/anti-SSB) and cluster three (anti-CL/anti-β2GPI), IFNα protein levels and disease activity. CD4 + T cell counts were lower in women positive to all ANA fine specificities in cluster one compared to those who were negative, and B cell numbers were lower in women positive for anti-dsDNA and anti-Sm compared to negative women. Moreover, CD4 + T cell and B cell counts were lower in women with moderate/high compared to no/low disease activity, and CD4 + T cell count was lower in IFNα protein positive relative to negative women. Finally, CD4 + T cell count was unrelated to treatment. CONCLUSION Lymphocyte subset counts are lower in SLE compared to healthy pregnancies, which seems to be a feature of the disease per se and not affected by pregnancy. Our results also indicate that low lymphocyte subset counts relate differentially to autoantibody profiles, IFNα protein levels and disease activity, which could be due to divergent disease pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Torell
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10A, 405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Marit Stockfelt
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10A, 405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Rheumatology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Paris Brain Institute, ICM, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Neurodegenerative Disorder Research Center, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine and Department of Neurology, Institute On Aging and Brain Disorders, University of Science and Technology of China and First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei, People's Republic of China
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
- Winsconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Tansim Akhter
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dag Leonard
- Department of Medical Sciences, Rheumatology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lars Rönnblom
- Department of Medical Sciences, Rheumatology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sofia Pihl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Children's and Women's Health, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Muna Saleh
- Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Christopher Sjöwall
- Division of Inflammation and Infection, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Helena Strevens
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Andreas Jönsen
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Rheumatology, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anders A Bengtsson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Rheumatology, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Estelle Trysberg
- Rheumatology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Majczuk Sennström
- Department of Womens and Childrens Health, Division for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Agneta Zickert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Svenungsson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iva Gunnarsson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Bylund
- Department of Oral Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Odontology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bo Jacobsson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Division of Health Data and Digitalisation, Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anna Rudin
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10A, 405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna-Carin Lundell
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10A, 405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
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2
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Hejazian SS, Hejazian SM, Farnood F, Abedi Azar S. Dysregulation of immunity in COVID-19 and SLE. Inflammopharmacology 2022; 30:1517-1531. [PMID: 36028612 PMCID: PMC9417079 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-022-01047-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The immune response plays a crucial role in preventing diseases, such as infections. There are two types of immune responses, specific and innate immunity, each of which consists of two components: cellular immunity and humoral immunity. Dysfunction in any immune system component increases the risk of developing certain diseases. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease in the human body, develops an immune response against its own components. In these patients, due to underlying immune system disorders and receipt of immunosuppressive drugs, the susceptibility to infections is higher than in the general population and is the single largest cause of mortality in this group. COVID-19 infection, which first appeared in late 2019, has caused several concerns in patients with SLE. However, there is no strong proof of additional risk of developing COVID-19 in patients with SLE, and in some cases, studies have shown less severity of the disease in these individuals. This review paper discusses the immune disorders in SLE and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyyed Sina Hejazian
- Kidney Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Farahnoosh Farnood
- Kidney Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Sima Abedi Azar
- Kidney Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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3
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Hojjatipour T, Aslani S, Salimifard S, Mikaeili H, Hemmatzadeh M, Gholizadeh Navashenaq J, Ahangar Parvin E, Jadidi-Niaragh F, Mohammadi H. NK cells - Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 107:108682. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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4
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Mohkhedkar M, Venigalla SSK, Janakiraman V. Untangling COVID-19 and autoimmunity: Identification of plausible targets suggests multi organ involvement. Mol Immunol 2021; 137:105-113. [PMID: 34242919 PMCID: PMC8241658 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Underlying mechanisms of multi-organ manifestations and exacerbated inflammation in COVID-19 are yet to be delineated. The hypothesis of SARS-CoV-2 triggering autoimmunity is gaining attention and, in the present study, we have identified 28 human proteins harbouring regions homologous to SARS-CoV-2 peptides that could possibly be acting as autoantigens in COVID-19 patients displaying autoimmune conditions. Interestingly, these conserved regions are amongst the experimentally validated B cell epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 proteins. The reported human proteins have demonstrated presence of autoantibodies against them in typical autoimmune conditions which may explain the frequent occurrence of autoimmune conditions following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, the proposed autoantigens' widespread tissue distribution is suggestive of their involvement in multi-organ manifestations via molecular mimicry. We opine that our report may aid in directing subsequent necessary antigen-specific studies, results of which would be of long-term relevance in management of extrapulmonary symptoms of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mugdha Mohkhedkar
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Siva Sai Krishna Venigalla
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Vani Janakiraman
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India.
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5
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Kucuksezer UC, Aktas Cetin E, Esen F, Tahrali I, Akdeniz N, Gelmez MY, Deniz G. The Role of Natural Killer Cells in Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:622306. [PMID: 33717125 PMCID: PMC7947192 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.622306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells, the large granular lymphocytes differentiated from the common lymphoid progenitors, were discovered in early 1970’s. They are members of innate immunity and were initially defined by their strong cytotoxicity against virus-infected cells and by their important effector functions in anti-tumoral immune responses. Nowadays, NK cells are classified among the recently discovered innate lymphoid cell subsets and have capacity to influence both innate and adaptive immune responses. Therefore, they can be considered as innate immune cells that stands between the innate and adaptive arms of immunity. NK cells don’t express T or B cell receptors and are recognized by absence of CD3. There are two major subgroups of NK cells according to their differential expression of CD16 and CD56. While CD16+CD56dim subset is best-known by their cytotoxic functions, CD16-CD56bright NK cell subset produces a bunch of cytokines comparable to CD4+ T helper cell subsets. Another subset of NK cells with production of interleukin (IL)-10 was named as NK regulatory cells, which has suppressive properties and could take part in immune-regulatory responses. Activation of NK cells is determined by a delicate balance of cell-surface receptors that have either activating or inhibitory properties. On the other hand, a variety of cytokines including IL-2, IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 influence NK cell activity. NK-derived cytokines and their cytotoxic functions through induction of apoptosis take part in regulation of the immune responses and could contribute to the pathogenesis of many immune mediated diseases including ankylosing spondylitis, Behçet’s disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus and type-1 diabetes. Dysregulation of NK cells in autoimmune disorders may occur through multiple mechanisms. Thanks to the rapid developments in biotechnology, progressive research in immunology enables better characterization of cells and their delicate roles in the complex network of immunity. As NK cells stand in between innate and adaptive arms of immunity and “bridge” them, their contribution in inflammation and immune regulation deserves intense investigations. Better understanding of NK-cell biology and their contribution in both exacerbation and regulation of inflammatory disorders is a requisite for possible utilization of these multi-faceted cells in novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umut Can Kucuksezer
- Department of Immunology, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esin Aktas Cetin
- Department of Immunology, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fehim Esen
- Department of Immunology, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilhan Tahrali
- Department of Immunology, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nilgun Akdeniz
- Department of Immunology, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Metin Yusuf Gelmez
- Department of Immunology, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gunnur Deniz
- Department of Immunology, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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6
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Gianchecchi E, Delfino DV, Fierabracci A. Natural Killer Cells: Potential Biomarkers and Therapeutic Target in Autoimmune Diseases? Front Immunol 2021; 12:616853. [PMID: 33679757 PMCID: PMC7933577 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.616853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases recognize a multifactorial pathogenesis, although the exact mechanism responsible for their onset remains to be fully elucidated. Over the past few years, the role of natural killer (NK) cells in shaping immune responses has been highlighted even though their involvement is profoundly linked to the subpopulation involved and to the site where such interaction takes place. The aberrant number and functionality of NK cells have been reported in several different autoimmune disorders. In the present review, we report the most recent findings regarding the involvement of NK cells in both systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes (T1D), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), primary Sjögren syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. In T1D, innate inflammation induces NK cell activation, disrupting the Treg function. In addition, certain genetic variants identified as risk factors for T1D influenced the activation of NK cells promoting their cytotoxic activity. The role of NK cells has also been demonstrated in the pathogenesis of PBC mediating direct or indirect biliary epithelial cell destruction. NK cell frequency and number were enhanced in both the peripheral blood and the liver of patients and associated with increased NK cell cytotoxic activity and perforin expression levels. NK cells were also involved in the perpetuation of disease through autoreactive CD4 T cell activation in the presence of antigen-presenting cells. In systemic sclerosis (SSc), in addition to phenotypic abnormalities, patients presented a reduction in CD56hi NK-cells. Moreover, NK cells presented a deficient killing activity. The influence of the activating and inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) has been investigated in SSc and SLE susceptibility. Furthermore, autoantibodies to KIRs have been identified in different systemic autoimmune conditions. Because of its role in modulating the immune-mediated pathology, NK subpopulation could represent a potential marker for disease activity and target for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Gianchecchi
- VisMederi srl, Siena, Italy.,Infectivology and Clinical Trials Research Area, Primary Immunodeficiencies Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico V Delfino
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Fierabracci
- Infectivology and Clinical Trials Research Area, Primary Immunodeficiencies Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, Italy
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7
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Yang Y, Day J, Souza-Fonseca Guimaraes F, Wicks IP, Louis C. Natural killer cells in inflammatory autoimmune diseases. Clin Transl Immunology 2021; 10:e1250. [PMID: 33552511 PMCID: PMC7850912 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a specialised population of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) that help control local immune responses. Through natural cytotoxicity, production of cytokines and chemokines, and migratory capacity, NK cells play a vital immunoregulatory role in the initiation and chronicity of inflammatory and autoimmune responses. Our understanding of their functional differences and contributions in disease settings is evolving owing to new genetic and functional murine proof-of-concept studies. Here, we summarise current understanding of NK cells in several classic autoimmune disorders, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), but also less understood diseases such as idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs). A better understanding of how NK cells contribute to these autoimmune disorders may pave the way for NK cell-targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyan Yang
- Tsinghua University School of Medicine Beijing China.,Inflammation Division The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Parkville VIC Australia
| | - Jessica Day
- Inflammation Division The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Parkville VIC Australia.,Medical Biology University of Melbourne Melbourne VIC Australia.,Rheumatology Unit The Royal Melbourne Hospital Parkville VIC Australia
| | | | - Ian P Wicks
- Inflammation Division The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Parkville VIC Australia.,Medical Biology University of Melbourne Melbourne VIC Australia.,Rheumatology Unit The Royal Melbourne Hospital Parkville VIC Australia
| | - Cynthia Louis
- Inflammation Division The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Parkville VIC Australia.,Medical Biology University of Melbourne Melbourne VIC Australia
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8
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Tariq S, Van Eeden C, Tervaert JWC, Osman MS. COVID-19, rheumatic diseases and immune dysregulation-a perspective. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 40:433-442. [PMID: 33411143 PMCID: PMC7788381 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-020-05529-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in widespread hospitalisations and deaths around the world. As patients with rheumatic diseases generally have increased risk of infections and complications, understandably, there is significant concern of the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on these patients. However, there is a paucity of data in rheumatic patients. We review mechanisms through which SARS-CoV-2 results in infection, including ACE2 receptor, and complications (including immune dysregulation, thrombosis and complement activation). We assess these pathways in patients with rheumatic disease and those on immune modulating therapy. Although data thus far does not appear to show worse outcomes in rheumatic patients as a whole, given alterations in the underlying immune pathways in certain diseases (such as systemic lupus erythematosus), we posit that the risk is not equal in all rheumatic patients. We also discuss the benefit of underlying disease control with respect to COVID-19 risk reduction and potential increased risk of disease flares following viral infection from an immune standpoint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahna Tariq
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, 8-130 Clinical Sciences Building, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Charmaine Van Eeden
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, 8-130 Clinical Sciences Building, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Jan Willem Cohen Tervaert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, 8-130 Clinical Sciences Building, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Mohammed S Osman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, 8-130 Clinical Sciences Building, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2B7, Canada.
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9
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van Eeden C, Khan L, Osman MS, Cohen Tervaert JW. Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction and Its Role in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6351. [PMID: 32883007 PMCID: PMC7503862 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
When facing an acute viral infection, our immune systems need to function with finite precision to enable the elimination of the pathogen, whilst protecting our bodies from immune-related damage. In many instances however this "perfect balance" is not achieved, factors such as ageing, cancer, autoimmunity and cardiovascular disease all skew the immune response which is then further distorted by viral infection. In SARS-CoV-2, although the vast majority of COVID-19 cases are mild, as of 24 August 2020, over 800,000 people have died, many from the severe inflammatory cytokine release resulting in extreme clinical manifestations such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). Severe complications are more common in elderly patients and patients with cardiovascular diseases. Natural killer (NK) cells play a critical role in modulating the immune response and in both of these patient groups, NK cell effector functions are blunted. Preliminary studies in COVID-19 patients with severe disease suggests a reduction in NK cell number and function, resulting in decreased clearance of infected and activated cells, and unchecked elevation of tissue-damaging inflammation markers. SARS-CoV-2 infection skews the immune response towards an overwhelmingly inflammatory phenotype. Restoration of NK cell effector functions has the potential to correct the delicate immune balance required to effectively overcome SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jan Willem Cohen Tervaert
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (C.v.E.); (L.K.); (M.S.O.)
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10
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Lu KL, Wu MY, Wang CH, Wang CW, Hung SI, Chung WH, Chen CB. The Role of Immune Checkpoint Receptors in Regulating Immune Reactivity in Lupus. Cells 2019; 8:E1213. [PMID: 31597242 PMCID: PMC6829486 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint receptors with co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory signals are important modulators for the immune system. However, unrestricted co-stimulation and/or inadequate co-inhibition may cause breakdown of self-tolerance, leading to autoimmunity. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex multi-organ disease with skewed and dysregulated immune responses interacting with genetics and the environment. The close connections between co-signaling pathways and SLE have gradually been established in past research. Also, the recent success of immune checkpoint blockade in cancer therapy illustrates the importance of the co-inhibitory receptors in cancer immunotherapy. Moreover, immune checkpoint blockade could result in substantial immune-related adverse events that mimic autoimmune diseases, including lupus. Together, immune checkpoint regulators represent viable immunotherapeutic targets for the treatment of both autoimmunity and cancer. Therefore, it appears reasonable to treat SLE by restoring the out-of-order co-signaling axis or by manipulating collateral pathways to control the pathogenic immune responses. Here, we review the current state of knowledge regarding the relationships between SLE and the co-signaling pathways of T cells, B cells, dendritic cells, and neutrophils, and highlight their potential clinical implications. Current clinical trials targeting the specific co-signaling axes involved in SLE help to advance such knowledge, but further in-depth exploration is still warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Lin Lu
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan; (K.-L.L.); (M.-Y.W.); , (C.-W.W.); (S.-I.H.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Ying Wu
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan; (K.-L.L.); (M.-Y.W.); , (C.-W.W.); (S.-I.H.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei 105, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hui Wang
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan; (K.-L.L.); (M.-Y.W.); , (C.-W.W.); (S.-I.H.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei 105, Taiwan
| | - Chuang-Wei Wang
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan; (K.-L.L.); (M.-Y.W.); , (C.-W.W.); (S.-I.H.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei 105, Taiwan
- Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan
| | - Shuen-Iu Hung
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan; (K.-L.L.); (M.-Y.W.); , (C.-W.W.); (S.-I.H.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei 105, Taiwan
- Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Hung Chung
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan; (K.-L.L.); (M.-Y.W.); , (C.-W.W.); (S.-I.H.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei 105, Taiwan
- Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan
- Whole-Genome Research Core Laboratory of Human Diseases, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan
- Immune-Oncology Center of Excellence, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen 361000, China
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Bing Chen
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan; (K.-L.L.); (M.-Y.W.); , (C.-W.W.); (S.-I.H.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei 105, Taiwan
- Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan
- Whole-Genome Research Core Laboratory of Human Diseases, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204, Taiwan
- Immune-Oncology Center of Excellence, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen 361000, China
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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11
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Segerberg F, Lundtoft C, Reid S, Hjorton K, Leonard D, Nordmark G, Carlsten M, Hagberg N. Autoantibodies to Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-Like Receptors in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Induce Natural Killer Cell Hyporesponsiveness. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2164. [PMID: 31572377 PMCID: PMC6749077 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity toward self-cells is restrained by the inhibitory HLA class I-binding receptors CD94/NKG2A and the killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs). CD94/NKG2A and KIRs are also essential for NK cell education, which is a dynamic functional maturation process where a constitutive binding of inhibitory receptors to cognate HLA class I molecules is required for NK cells to maintain their full cytotoxic capacity. Previously, we described autoantibodies to CD94/NKG2A in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study we analyzed sera from 191 patients with SLE, 119 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), 48 patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), and 100 healthy donors (HD) for autoantibodies to eight different KIRs. Anti-KIR autoantibodies were identified in sera from 23.0% of patients with SLE, 10.9% of patients with pSS, 12.5% of patients with SSc, and 3.0% of HD. IgG from anti-KIR-positive SLE patients reduced the degranulation and cytotoxicity of NK cells toward K562 tumor cells. The presence of anti-KIR-autoantibodies reacting with >3 KIRs was associated with an increased disease activity (p < 0.0001), elevated serum levels of IFN-α (p < 0.0001), nephritis (p = 0.001), and the presence of anti-Sm (p = 0.007), and anti-RNP (p = 0.003) autoantibodies in serum. Together these findings suggest that anti-KIR autoantibodies may contribute to the reduced function of NK cells in SLE patients, and that a defective NK cell function may be a risk factor for the development of lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Segerberg
- Department of Medicine, Center for Haematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christian Lundtoft
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sarah Reid
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Hjorton
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dag Leonard
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnel Nordmark
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mattias Carlsten
- Department of Medicine, Center for Haematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Niklas Hagberg
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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12
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Rönnblom L, Leonard D. Interferon pathway in SLE: one key to unlocking the mystery of the disease. Lupus Sci Med 2019; 6:e000270. [PMID: 31497305 PMCID: PMC6703304 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2018-000270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
SLE is characterised by an activation of the interferon (IFN) system, which leads to an increased expression of IFN-regulated genes. The reasons behind the IFN signature in SLE are (1) the existence of endogenous IFN inducers, (2) activation of several IFN-producing cell types, (3) production of many different IFNs, (4) a genetic setup promoting IFN production and (5) deficient negative feedback mechanisms. The consequences for the immune system is a continuous stimulation to an immune response, and for the patient a number of different organ manifestations leading to typical symptoms for SLE. In the current review, we will present the existing knowledge of the IFN system and pathway activation in SLE. We will also discuss how this information can contribute to our understanding of both the aetiopathogenesis and some organ manifestations of the disease. We will put forward some issues that are unresolved and should be clarified in order to make a proper stratification of patients with SLE, which seems important when selecting a therapy aiming to downregulate the IFN system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Rönnblom
- Department of Medical Sciences, Rheumatology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dag Leonard
- Department of Medical Sciences, Rheumatology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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13
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Zitti B, Bryceson YT. Natural killer cells in inflammation and autoimmunity. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2018; 42:37-46. [PMID: 30122459 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
First described 40 years ago, natural killer (NK) cells represent the founding members of the innate lymphoid cell (ILC) family. They were initially defined by their ability to kill cancer cells of hematopoietic origin. More recently, NK cells are recognized not only for their ability to kill infected or malignant cells, but also for mediating cytotoxicity against a range of normal immune cells. They thereby play an important physiological role in controlling immune responses and maintaining homeostasis. Besides cytotoxic activity, NK cells activation is accompanied by secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Hence, NK cells have the potential to act both in driving inflammation and in restricting adaptive immune responses that may otherwise lead to excessive inflammation or even autoimmunity. Here, we highlight how NK cell activity is linked to inflammasome activation and review new molecular insights to the roles of NK cells in inflammation and autoimmunity. Furthermore, in light of new insights to NK cell differentiation and memory, we deliberate on how distinct NK cell subsets may impact immunoregulatory functions. Hypothetically, memory-like or adaptive NK cells could drive NK cell-mediated autoreactive diseases. Together, new findings underscore the complex yet important physiological roles of NK cells in both promoting inflammation and exerting immunoregulation and maintenance of immune homeostasis. Insights raise intriguing questions as to how NK cells themselves maintain self-tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Zitti
- Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Yenan T Bryceson
- Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Broegelmann Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
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14
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Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has a complex clinical picture, and a number of defects in the immune system have been described in patients with the disease. Most organs can be involved in SLE, and in addition to the typical major organ manifestations (e.g. from kidneys and the central nervous system), early cardiovascular disease is a major determinant of prognosis. Several important findings during the last decade have increased the understanding of the mechanisms behind the disease characteristics and the underlying autoimmune process. Amongst, these are defects in the handling of apoptotic cells, increased expression of type I interferon-regulated genes and activation of autoreactive B cells, with both the type I interferon system and the B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) having key roles. In addition, a large number of genes have been identified that contribute to these abnormalities. It has also become clear that certain SLE risk genes are associated with some organ manifestations, such as STAT4 with nephritis and IRF8 with myocardial infarction. Furthermore, environmental factors that can induce SLE or trigger a disease flare have been identified. As a consequence of this increased knowledge, new treatments for SLE have been developed. The most recently approved drug for SLE is belimumab, which blocks BLyS, and several new therapies and therapeutic strategies are in the pipeline for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Bengtsson
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Skåne University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - L Rönnblom
- Department of Medical Sciences, Science for Life Laboratory, Section of Rheumatology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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15
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Hagberg N, Rönnblom L. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus--A Disease with A Dysregulated Type I Interferon System. Scand J Immunol 2015; 82:199-207. [PMID: 26099519 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the loss of tolerance to nuclear antigens, immune complex formation and inflammation in multiple organs. The disease is very heterogeneous, and most clinicians consider SLE as a group of diseases with similar features where the pathogenesis is driven by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. One of the most prominent features, shared by the majority of patients with SLE, is a continuous activation of the type I interferon (IFN) system, which manifests as increased serum levels of IFNα and/or an increased expression of type I IFN-induced genes, a so-called type I IFN signature. The mechanisms behind this IFN signature have partly been clarified during recent years, although the exact function of the IFN-regulated genes in the disease process is unclear. In this review, we will describe the type I IFN system and its regulation and summarize the numerous findings implicating an important ethiopathogenic role of a dysregulated type I IFN system in SLE. Furthermore, strategies to therapeutically target the type I IFN system that are currently evaluated preclinically and in clinical trials will be mentioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hagberg
- Department of Medical Sciences, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - L Rönnblom
- Department of Medical Sciences, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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