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Luo X, Tang X. Single-cell RNA sequencing in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Genes Dis 2024; 11:633-644. [PMID: 37692495 PMCID: PMC10491939 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.04.014] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases in children, with onset before age 16 and lasting for more than 6 weeks. JIA is a highly heterogeneous condition with various consequences for health and quality of life. For some JIA patients, early detection and intervention remain challenging. As a result, further investigation of the complex and unknown mechanisms underlying JIA is required. Advances in technology now allow us to describe the biological heterogeneity and function of individual cell populations in JIA. Through this review, we hope to provide novel ideas and potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of JIA by summarizing the current findings of single-cell RNA sequencing studies and understanding how the major cell subsets drive JIA pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiwen Luo
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Xuemei Tang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Infection and Immunity, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
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2
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Nijhuis L, Swart JF, Prakken BJ, van Loosdregt J, Vastert SJ. The clinical and experimental treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. Clin Exp Immunol 2023; 213:276-287. [PMID: 37074076 PMCID: PMC10571000 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxad045] [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: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic rheumatic disease in children and comprises of multiple subtypes. The most relevant disease subtypes, grouped upon current insight in disease mechanisms, are nonsystemic (oligo- and polyarticular) JIA and systemic JIA (sJIA). In this review, we summarize some of the main proposed mechanisms of disease in both nonsystemic and sJIA and discuss how current therapeutic modalities target some of the pathogenic immune pathways. Chronic inflammation in nonsystemic JIA is the result of a complex interplay between effector and regulatory immune cell subsets, with adaptive immune cells, specifically T-cell subsets and antigen-presenting cells, in a central role. There is, however, also innate immune cell contribution. SJIA is nowadays recognized as an acquired chronic inflammatory disorder with striking autoinflammatory features in the first phase of the disease. Some sJIA patients develop a refractory disease course, with indications for involvement of adaptive immune pathways as well. Currently, therapeutic strategies are directed at suppressing effector mechanisms in both non-systemic and sJIA. These strategies are often not yet optimally tuned nor timed to the known active mechanisms of disease in individual patients in both non-systemic and sJIA. We discuss current treatment strategies in JIA, specifically the 'Step-up' and 'Treat to Target approach' and explore how increased insight into the biology of disease may translate into future more targeted strategies for this chronic inflammatory disease at relevant time points: preclinical disease, active disease, and clinically inactive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Nijhuis
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of pediatric rheumatology & immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J F Swart
- Department of pediatric rheumatology & immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - B J Prakken
- Department of pediatric rheumatology & immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J van Loosdregt
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - S J Vastert
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of pediatric rheumatology & immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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3
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Povoleri GAM, Fleskens V, Taams LS. Isolation and Functional Characterization of Regulatory CD4+ T Cells from the Inflamed Joints of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2559:189-203. [PMID: 36180634 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2647-4_13] [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: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells play a critical role in maintaining immune homeostasis and in preventing and controlling unwanted immune activation. These cells are often studied in the context of human peripheral blood, but can also be isolated from other biofluids. Here we describe methods for the isolation and functional characterization of human CD4+ CD25hi CD127low regulatory T cells from the synovial fluid of patients with inflammatory arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni A M Povoleri
- Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology (CIBCI), Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Veerle Fleskens
- Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology (CIBCI), Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Leonie S Taams
- Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology (CIBCI), Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
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4
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Abstract
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an umbrella term for arthritis of unknown origin, lasting for >6 weeks with onset before 16 years of age. JIA is the most common chronic inflammatory rheumatic condition of childhood. According to the International League Against Rheumatism (ILAR) classification, seven mutually exclusive categories of JIA exist based on disease manifestations during the first 6 months of disease. Although the ILAR classification has been useful to foster research, it has been criticized mainly as it does not distinguish those forms of chronic arthritis observed in adults and in children from those that may be unique to childhood. Hence, efforts to provide a new evidence-based classification are ongoing. Similar to arthritis observed in adults, pathogenesis involves autoimmune and autoinflammatory mechanisms. The field has witnessed a remarkable improvement in therapeutic possibilities of JIA owing to the availability of new potent drugs and the possibility to perform controlled trials with support from legislative interventions and large networks availability. The goal of drug therapy in JIA is to rapidly reduce disease activity to inactive disease or clinical remission, minimize drug side effects and achieve a quality of life comparable to that of healthy peers. As JIA can influence all aspects of a child's and their family's life, researchers increasingly recognize improvement of health-related quality of life as a key treatment goal.
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5
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Julé AM, Hoyt KJ, Wei K, Gutierrez-Arcelus M, Taylor ML, Ng J, Lederer JA, Case SM, Chang MH, Cohen EM, Dedeoglu F, Hazen MM, Hausmann JS, Halyabar O, Janssen E, Lo J, Lo MS, Meidan E, Roberts JE, Son MBF, Sundel RP, Lee PY, Chatila T, Nigrovic PA, Henderson LA. Th1 polarization defines the synovial fluid T cell compartment in oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e149185. [PMID: 34403374 PMCID: PMC8492302 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.149185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (oligo JIA) is the most common form of chronic inflammatory arthritis in children, yet the cause of this disease remains unknown. To understand immune responses in oligo JIA, we immunophenotyped synovial fluid T cells with flow cytometry, bulk RNA-Seq, single-cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-Seq), DNA methylation studies, and Treg suppression assays. In synovial fluid, CD4+, CD8+, and γδ T cells expressed Th1-related markers, whereas Th17 cells were not enriched. Th1 skewing was prominent in CD4+ T cells, including Tregs, and was associated with severe disease. Transcriptomic studies confirmed a Th1 signature in CD4+ T cells from synovial fluid. The regulatory gene expression signature was preserved in Tregs, even those exhibiting Th1 polarization. These Th1-like Tregs maintained Treg-specific methylation patterns and suppressive function, supporting the stability of this Treg population in the joint. Although synovial fluid CD4+ T cells displayed an overall Th1 phenotype, scRNA-Seq uncovered heterogeneous effector and regulatory subpopulations, including IFN-induced Tregs, peripheral helper T cells, and cytotoxic CD4+ T cells. In conclusion, oligo JIA is characterized by Th1 polarization that encompasses Tregs but does not compromise their regulatory identity. Targeting Th1-driven inflammation and augmenting Treg function may represent important therapeutic approaches in oligo JIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amélie M. Julé
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kacie J. Hoyt
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kevin Wei
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maria Gutierrez-Arcelus
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maria L. Taylor
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julie Ng
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and
| | - James A. Lederer
- Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Siobhan M. Case
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Margaret H. Chang
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ezra M. Cohen
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Fatma Dedeoglu
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Melissa M. Hazen
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan S. Hausmann
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Olha Halyabar
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Erin Janssen
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey Lo
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mindy S. Lo
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Esra Meidan
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jordan E. Roberts
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mary Beth F. Son
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert P. Sundel
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pui Y. Lee
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Talal Chatila
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter A. Nigrovic
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauren A. Henderson
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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6
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Mijnheer G, Lutter L, Mokry M, van der Wal M, Scholman R, Fleskens V, Pandit A, Tao W, Wekking M, Vervoort S, Roberts C, Petrelli A, Peeters JGC, Knijff M, de Roock S, Vastert S, Taams LS, van Loosdregt J, van Wijk F. Conserved human effector Treg cell transcriptomic and epigenetic signature in arthritic joint inflammation. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2710. [PMID: 33976194 PMCID: PMC8113485 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22975-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Treg cells are critical regulators of immune homeostasis, and environment-driven Treg cell differentiation into effector (e)Treg cells is crucial for optimal functioning. However, human Treg cell programming in inflammation is unclear. Here, we combine transcriptional and epigenetic profiling to identify a human eTreg cell signature. Inflammation-derived functional Treg cells have a transcriptional profile characterized by upregulation of both a core Treg cell (FOXP3, CTLA4, TIGIT) and effector program (GITR, BLIMP-1, BATF). We identify a specific human eTreg cell signature that includes the vitamin D receptor (VDR) as a predicted regulator in eTreg cell differentiation. H3K27ac/H3K4me1 occupancy indicates an altered (super-)enhancer landscape, including enrichment of the VDR and BATF binding motifs. The Treg cell profile has striking overlap with tumor-infiltrating Treg cells. Our data demonstrate that human inflammation-derived Treg cells acquire a conserved and specific eTreg cell profile guided by epigenetic changes, and fine-tuned by environment-specific adaptations.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Arthritis, Juvenile/genetics
- Arthritis, Juvenile/immunology
- Arthritis, Juvenile/pathology
- Base Sequence
- Basic-Leucine Zipper Transcription Factors/genetics
- Basic-Leucine Zipper Transcription Factors/immunology
- CTLA-4 Antigen/genetics
- CTLA-4 Antigen/immunology
- Case-Control Studies
- Cell Differentiation
- Child
- Child, Preschool
- Epigenesis, Genetic
- Female
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/immunology
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Gene Regulatory Networks
- Glucocorticoid-Induced TNFR-Related Protein/genetics
- Glucocorticoid-Induced TNFR-Related Protein/immunology
- Histones/genetics
- Histones/immunology
- Humans
- Joints/immunology
- Joints/pathology
- Male
- Metabolic Networks and Pathways/genetics
- Metabolic Networks and Pathways/immunology
- Positive Regulatory Domain I-Binding Factor 1/genetics
- Positive Regulatory Domain I-Binding Factor 1/immunology
- Primary Cell Culture
- Receptors, Calcitriol/genetics
- Receptors, Calcitriol/immunology
- Receptors, Immunologic/genetics
- Receptors, Immunologic/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/pathology
- Transcriptome
- Young Adult
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerdien Mijnheer
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lisanne Lutter
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Michal Mokry
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Epigenomics facility, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marlot van der Wal
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rianne Scholman
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Veerle Fleskens
- Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Weiyang Tao
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mark Wekking
- Epigenomics facility, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Stephin Vervoort
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ceri Roberts
- Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alessandra Petrelli
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke G C Peeters
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marthe Knijff
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sytze de Roock
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Vastert
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Leonie S Taams
- Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jorg van Loosdregt
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Femke van Wijk
- Center for Translational Immunology, Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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7
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Wienke J, Brouwers L, van der Burg LM, Mokry M, Scholman RC, Nikkels PG, van Rijn BB, van Wijk F. Human Tregs at the materno-fetal interface show site-specific adaptation reminiscent of tumor Tregs. JCI Insight 2020; 5:137926. [PMID: 32809975 PMCID: PMC7526557 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.137926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tregs are crucial for maintaining maternal immunotolerance against the semiallogeneic fetus. We investigated the elusive transcriptional profile and functional adaptation of human uterine Tregs (uTregs) during pregnancy. Uterine biopsies, from placental bed (materno-fetal interface) and incision site (control) and blood were obtained from women with uncomplicated pregnancies undergoing cesarean section. Tregs and CD4+ non-Tregs were isolated for transcriptomic profiling by Cel-Seq2. Results were validated on protein and single cell levels by flow cytometry. Placental bed uTregs showed elevated expression of Treg signature markers, including FOXP3, CTLA-4, and TIGIT. Their transcriptional profile was indicative of late-stage effector Treg differentiation and chronic activation, with increased expression of immune checkpoints GITR, TNFR2, OX-40, and 4-1BB; genes associated with suppressive capacity (HAVCR2, IL10, LAYN, and PDCD1); and transcription factors MAF, PRDM1, BATF, and VDR. uTregs mirrored non-Treg Th1 polarization and tissue residency. The particular transcriptional signature of placental bed uTregs overlapped strongly with that of tumor-infiltrating Tregs and was remarkably pronounced at the placental bed compared with uterine control site. In conclusion, human uTregs acquire a differentiated effector Treg profile similar to tumor-infiltrating Tregs, specifically at the materno-fetal interface. This introduces the concept of site-specific transcriptional adaptation of Tregs within 1 organ. Human regulatory T cells at the maternal-fetal interface show uterine site-specific functional adaptation with late-stage effector differentiation, chronic activation, Th1 polarization, and tumor-infiltrating, Treg-like features.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Michal Mokry
- Regenerative Medicine Utrecht.,Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, and
| | | | - Peter Gj Nikkels
- Department of Pathology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Netherlands
| | - Bas B van Rijn
- Wilhelmina Children's Hospital Birth Center.,Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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8
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Cardellini S, Socci C, Bissolati M, Pindozzi F, Giovenzana A, Saibene A, Bosi E, Battaglia M, Petrelli A. Enrichment of Tc1 cells and T cell resistance to suppression are associated with dysglycemia in the visceral fat in human obesity. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care 2020; 8:8/1/e000772. [PMID: 32299896 PMCID: PMC7199176 DOI: 10.1136/bmjdrc-2019-000772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Insulin resistance, defined as tissue inflammation leading to type 2 diabetes, is a feature of obesity. The immune system has been implicated in its pathogenesis, but the role of adaptive immunity in humans remains uncertain. Here, we aim to determine whether specific phenotypic and functional properties of visceral adipose tissue (VAT)-derived CD4 conventional T cells (Tconv) and CD8 T cells are associated with dysglycemia in human obesity. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Peripheral blood and the stromal vascular fraction of obese patients without dysglycemia (n=23), with impaired fasting glucose or type 2 diabetes (n=17), and non-diabetic lean controls (n=11) were studied. Characterization of memory, activation profile, cytokine production, proliferative capacity, cytotoxic potential and transforming growth factor-β-mediated suppression of CD4 Tconv and CD8 T cells was performed. Correlation between anthropometric/metabolic parameters and VAT-derived T cell subsets was determined. RESULTS In the VAT of the overall obese population, reduced frequency of interferon-γ-producing or tumor necrosis factor-α-producing CD4 (ie, T helper 1, Th1) and CD8 (ie, cytotoxic type 1, Tc1) T cells, as well as interleukin-17-producing CD8 T cells (ie, Tc17), was evident when compared with lean controls. However, enrichment of Tc1 cells, together with the impaired ability of CD4 and CD8 T cells to be suppressed, distinguished the visceral fat of obese patients with dysglycemia from the one of non-diabetic obese patients. Moreover, accumulation of Th1 and Tc1 cells in the VAT correlated with anthropometric and metabolic parameters. CONCLUSIONS Here, we define the VAT-specific characteristics of T cells in human obesity, showing that accumulation of Tc1 cells and T cell resistance to suppression can be harmful to the development of obesity-induced diabetes. These findings open new directions to investigate immunological targets in the obesity setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Cardellini
- San Raffaele Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Carlo Socci
- Transplant and Metabolic/Bariatric Surgery Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Bissolati
- Transplant and Metabolic/Bariatric Surgery Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Fioralba Pindozzi
- Transplant and Metabolic/Bariatric Surgery Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Anna Giovenzana
- San Raffaele Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Saibene
- Department of General Medicine, Diabetes and Endocrinology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Emanuele Bosi
- Department of General Medicine, Diabetes and Endocrinology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Battaglia
- San Raffaele Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Petrelli
- San Raffaele Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
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9
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Mijnheer G, van Wijk F. T-Cell Compartmentalization and Functional Adaptation in Autoimmune Inflammation: Lessons From Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases. Front Immunol 2019; 10:940. [PMID: 31143175 PMCID: PMC6520654 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory diseases are characterized by a disturbed immune balance leading to recurring episodes of inflammation in specific target tissues, such as the joints in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The tissue becomes infiltrated by multiple types of immune cell, including high numbers of CD4 and CD8 T-cells, which are mostly effector memory cells. Locally, these T-cells display an environment-adapted phenotype, induced by inflammation- and tissue-specific instructions. Some of the infiltrated T-cells may become tissue resident and play a role in relapses of inflammation. Adaptation to the environment may lead to functional (re)programming of cells and altered cellular interactions and responses. For example, specifically at the site of inflammation both CD4 and CD8 T-cells can become resistant to regulatory T-cell-mediated regulation. In addition, CD8 and CD4 T-cells show a unique profile with pro- and anti-inflammatory features coexisting in the same compartment. Also regulatory T-cells are neither homogeneous nor static in nature and show features of functional differentiation, and plasticity in inflammatory environments. Here we will discuss the recent insights in T-cell functional specialization, regulation, and clonal expansion in local (tissue) inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerdien Mijnheer
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Femke van Wijk
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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10
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Nijhuis L, Peeters JGC, Vastert SJ, van Loosdregt J. Restoring T Cell Tolerance, Exploring the Potential of Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. Front Immunol 2019; 10:151. [PMID: 30792714 PMCID: PMC6374297 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is characterized by a loss of immune tolerance. Here, the balance between the activity of effector T (Teff) cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells is disturbed resulting in chronic inflammation in the joints. Presently, therapeutic strategies are predominantly aimed at suppressing immune activation and pro-inflammatory effector mechanisms, ignoring the opportunity to also promote tolerance by boosting the regulatory side of the immune balance. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) can deacetylate both histone and non-histone proteins and have been demonstrated to modulate epigenetic regulation as well as cellular signaling in various cell types. Importantly, HDACs are potent regulators of both Teff cell and Treg cell function and can thus be regarded as attractive therapeutic targets in chronic inflammatory arthritis. HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) have proven therapeutic potential in the cancer field, and are presently being explored for their potential in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Specific HDACi have already been demonstrated to reduce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines by Teff cells, and promote Treg numbers and suppressive capacity in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we outline the role of the different classes of HDACs in both Teff cell and Treg cell function. Furthermore, we will review the effect of different HDACi on T cell tolerance and explore their potential as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of oligoarticular and polyarticular JIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Nijhuis
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Department of Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Janneke G C Peeters
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Department of Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan J Vastert
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Department of Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jorg van Loosdregt
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Department of Pediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
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11
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Hoeppli RE, Pesenacker AM. Targeting Tregs in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Juvenile Dermatomyositis-Insights From Other Diseases. Front Immunol 2019; 10:46. [PMID: 30740105 PMCID: PMC6355674 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are believed to be dysfunctional in autoimmunity. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) result from a loss of normal immune regulation in specific tissues such as joints or muscle and skin, respectively. Here, we discuss recent findings in regard to Treg biology in oligo-/polyarticular JIA and JDM, as well as what we can learn about Treg-related disease mechanism, treatment and biomarkers in JIA/JDM from studies of other diseases. We explore the potential use of Treg immunoregulatory markers and gene signatures as biomarkers for disease course and/or treatment success. Further, we discuss how Tregs are affected by several treatment strategies already employed in the therapy of JIA and JDM and by alternative immunotherapies such as anti-cytokine or co-receptor targeting. Finally, we review recent successes in using Tregs as a treatment target with low-dose IL-2 or cellular immunotherapy. Thus, this mini review will highlight our current understanding and identify open questions in regard to Treg biology, and how recent findings may advance biomarkers and new therapies for JIA and JDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romy E Hoeppli
- Department of Surgery, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Anne M Pesenacker
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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12
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Leong JY, Guan YJ, Albani S, Arkachaisri T. Recent advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and their potential clinical implications. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2018; 14:933-944. [PMID: 30269617 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2018.1529757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) comprises systemic and non-systemic forms of chronic childhood arthritis diagnosed prior to age 16. Significant improvement in treatment outcomes has been witnessed since the introduction of biologics. In particular, advances in research in the area of multidimensional interrogation and network analysis have facilitated understanding of the complex cacophony of components orchestrating disease immunopathogenesis. Areas covered: In this review, we will examine the scientific advances that have augmented our understanding of JIA pathogenesis, focusing on the progress made in systemic, poly, and oligo JIA in four major aspects: (a) unraveling the pathogenic mechanisms, (b) disease classification, (c) therapeutic selection, and (d) decision for withdrawal of medications after achieving remission. Expert commentary: Dysregulation of innate immune cell physiology and function in sJIA will be highlighted. MicroRNAs contribute to monocyte/macrophage polarization with resulting consequences on macrophage activation syndrome development. The involvement of neutrophils, a major source of S100A8/9/12, in the active inflammatory phase of sJIA is compelling. In non-sJIA, circulating CD4 subsets in T effector and regulatory compartments possessing a strong synovial T-cell receptor coverage and disease activity correlation, acted as an accessible reservoir of pathogenic cells exploitable for clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yao Leong
- a Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre , Singapore
| | - Yeo Joo Guan
- a Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre , Singapore.,b Rheumatology and Immunology Service, Department of Pediatric Subspecialties , KK Women's and Children's Hospital , Singapore.,c Duke-NUS Medical School , Singapore
| | - Salvatore Albani
- a Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre , Singapore.,b Rheumatology and Immunology Service, Department of Pediatric Subspecialties , KK Women's and Children's Hospital , Singapore.,c Duke-NUS Medical School , Singapore
| | - Thaschawee Arkachaisri
- b Rheumatology and Immunology Service, Department of Pediatric Subspecialties , KK Women's and Children's Hospital , Singapore.,c Duke-NUS Medical School , Singapore
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13
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Copland A, Bending D. Foxp3 Molecular Dynamics in Treg in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2273. [PMID: 30333832 PMCID: PMC6175987 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the identification of the regulatory T-cell (Treg)-associated transcription factor Foxp3, there have been intensive research efforts to understand its biology and roles in maintaining immune homeostasis. It is well established that thymic selection of a repertoire of self-reactive Foxp3+ T-cells provides an essential mechanism to minimize reactions to self-antigens in the periphery, and thus aid in the prevention of autoimmunity. It is clear from both genetic and immunological analyses of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients that T-cells have a strong role to play in both the initiation and propagation of disease. The current paradigm is to view autoimmunity as a consequence of an imbalance between inflammatory and immunoregulatory mechanisms. This view has led to the assigning of cells and inflammatory mediators to different classes based on their assumed pro- or anti-inflammatory roles. This is typically reported as ratios of effector T-cells to Treg cells. Problematically, many analyses are based on static “snapshots-in-time,” even though both mouse models and human patient studies have highlighted the dynamic nature of Foxp3+ T-cells in vivo, which can exhibit plasticity and time-dependent functional states. In this review, we discuss the role of Foxp3 dynamics in the control of T-cell responses in childhood arthritis, by reviewing evidence in humans and relevant mouse models of inflammatory disease. Whilst the cellular dynamics of Treg have been well evaluated—leading to standard data outputs such as frequency, quantity and quality (often assessed by in vitro suppressive capacity)—we discuss how recent insights into the molecular dynamics of Foxp3 transcription and its post-translational control may open up tantalizing new avenues for immunotherapies to treat autoimmune arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alastair Copland
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - David Bending
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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14
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Mercadante ER, Lorenz UM. T Cells Deficient in the Tyrosine Phosphatase SHP-1 Resist Suppression by Regulatory T Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 199:129-137. [PMID: 28550200 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1602171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The balance between activation of T cells and their suppression by regulatory T cells (Tregs) is dysregulated in autoimmune diseases and cancer. Autoimmune diseases feature T cells that are resistant to suppression by Tregs, whereas in cancer, T cells are unable to mount antitumor responses due to the Treg-enriched suppressive microenvironment. In this study, we observed that loss of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1, a negative regulator of TCR signaling, renders naive CD4+ and CD8+ T cells resistant to Treg-mediated suppression in a T cell-intrinsic manner. At the intracellular level, SHP-1 controlled the extent of Akt activation, which has been linked to the induction of T cell resistance to Treg suppression. Finally, under conditions of homeostatic expansion, SHP-1-deficient CD4+ T cells resisted Treg suppression in vivo. Collectively, these data establish SHP-1 as a critical player in setting the threshold downstream of TCR signaling and identify a novel function of SHP-1 as a regulator of T cell susceptibility to Treg-mediated suppression in vitro and in vivo. Thus, SHP-1 could represent a potential novel immunotherapeutic target to modulate susceptibility of T cells to Treg suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Mercadante
- Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908; and.,Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908
| | - Ulrike M Lorenz
- Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908; and .,Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908
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15
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Maggi L, Cosmi L, Simonini G, Annunziato F, Cimaz R. T cell subpopulations in juvenile idiopathic arthritis and their modifications after biotherapies. Autoimmun Rev 2016; 15:1141-1144. [PMID: 27640318 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2016.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory T cells are thought to be central to the pathogenesis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In particular, recent evidence has underlined the importance of a balance between Th17 and Treg cells. Several mechanisms have come to light that control this reciprocal relationship. Moreover, it has been shown that in certain conditions, Th17 cells can shift toward a nonclassic Th1 phenotype. Anti-rheumatic biologic therapies may interfere with these mechanisms and re-establish immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maggi
- Regenerative Medicine Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Cosmi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriele Simonini
- Department of Pediatrics, Rheumatology Unit, Anna Meyer Children's Hospital and University of Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Annunziato
- Regenerative Medicine Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Rolando Cimaz
- Department of Pediatrics, Rheumatology Unit, Anna Meyer Children's Hospital and University of Florence, Italy.
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16
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Abstract
CD8(+) T cells are key players in the body's defence against viral infections and cancer. To date, data on the role of CD8(+) T cells in autoimmune diseases have been scarce, especially when compared with the wealth of research on CD4(+) T cells. However, growing evidence suggests that CD8(+) T-cell homeostasis is impaired in human autoimmune diseases. The contribution of CD8(+) T cells to autoimmune arthritis is indicated by the close association of MHC class I polymorphisms with disease risk, as well as the correlation between CD8(+) T-cell phenotype and disease outcome. The heterogeneous phenotype, resistance to regulation and impaired regulatory function of CD8(+) T cells - especially at the target organ - might contribute to the persistence of autoimmune inflammation. Moreover, newly identified populations of tissue-resident CD8(+) T cells and their interaction with antigen-presenting cells might have a key role in disease pathology. In this Review, we assess the link between CD8(+) T cells, autoimmune arthritis and the basis of their homeostatic changes under inflammatory conditions. Improved insight into CD8(+) T cell-specific pathogenicity will be essential for a better understanding of autoimmune arthritis and the identification of new therapeutic targets.
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17
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Mercadante ER, Lorenz UM. Breaking Free of Control: How Conventional T Cells Overcome Regulatory T Cell Suppression. Front Immunol 2016; 7:193. [PMID: 27242798 PMCID: PMC4870238 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional T (Tcon) cells are crucial in shaping the immune response, whether it is protection against a pathogen, a cytotoxic attack on tumor cells, or an unwanted response to self-antigens in the context of autoimmunity. In each of these immune settings, regulatory T cells (Tregs) can potentially exert control over the Tcon cell response, resulting in either suppression or activation of the Tcon cells. Under physiological conditions, Tcon cells are able to transiently overcome Treg-imposed restraints to mount a protective response against an infectious threat, achieving clonal expansion, differentiation, and effector function. However, evidence has accumulated in recent years to suggest that Tcon cell resistance to Treg-mediated suppression centrally contributes to the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease. Tipping the balance too far in the other direction, cancerous tumors utilize Tregs to establish an overly suppressive microenvironment, preventing antitumor Tcon cell responses. Given the wide-ranging clinical importance of the Tcon/Treg interaction, this review aims to provide a better understanding of what determines whether a Tcon cell is susceptible to Treg-mediated suppression and how perturbations to this finely tuned balance play a role in pathological conditions. Here, we focus in detail on the complex array of factors that confer Tcon cells with resistance to Treg suppression, which we have divided into two categories: (1) extracellular factor-mediated signaling and (2) intracellular signaling molecules. Further, we explore the therapeutic implications of manipulating the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway, which is proposed to be the convergence point of signaling pathways that mediate Tcon resistance to suppression. Finally, we address important unresolved questions on the timing and location of acquisition of resistance, and the stability of the “Treg-resistant” phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Mercadante
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Cancer Biology, Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Ulrike M Lorenz
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Cancer Biology, Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
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18
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Legorreta-Haquet MV, Chávez-Rueda K, Chávez-Sánchez L, Cervera-Castillo H, Zenteno-Galindo E, Barile-Fabris L, Burgos-Vargas R, Álvarez-Hernández E, Blanco-Favela F. Function of Treg Cells Decreased in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Due To the Effect of Prolactin. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e2384. [PMID: 26844452 PMCID: PMC4748869 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000002384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolactin has different functions, including cytokine secretion and inhibition of the suppressor effect of regulatory T (Treg) cells in healthy individuals. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by defects in the functions of B, T, and Treg cells. Prolactin plays an important role in the physiopathology of SLE. Our objective was to establish the participation of prolactin in the regulation of the immune response mediated by Treg cells from patients with SLE. CD4CD25CD127 cells were purified using magnetic beads and the relative expression of prolactin receptor was measured. The functional activity was evaluated by proliferation assay and cytokine secretion in activated cells, in the presence and absence of prolactin. We found that both percentage and function of Treg cells decrease in SLE patients compared to healthy individuals with statistical significance. The prolactin receptor is constitutively expressed on Treg and effector T (Teff) cells in SLE patients, and this expression is higher than in healthy individuals. The expression of this receptor differs in inactive and active patients: in the former, the expression is higher in Treg cells than in Teff cells, similar to healthy individuals, whereas there is no difference in the expression between Treg and Teff cells from active patients. In Treg:Teff cell cocultures, addition of prolactin decreases the suppressor effect exerted by Treg cells and increases IFNγ secretion. Our results suggest that prolactin plays an important role in the activation of the disease in inactive patients by decreasing the suppressor function exerted by Treg cells over Teff cells, thereby favoring an inflammatory microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Victoria Legorreta-Haquet
- From the Unidad de Investigación Médica en Inmunología, Hospital de Pediatría, C.M.N. "Siglo XXI", IMSS, Mexico (L-HMV, C-RK, C-SL, B-FF); Departamento de Reumatología, Clínica 25, IMSS, Mexico (C-CH); Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico (Z-GE); Departamento de Reumatología, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional "Siglo XXI", Mexico (B-FL); Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital General de México, "Dr. Eduardo Liceaga", Mexico (B-VR, Á-HE)
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