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Zhang J, Liu H, Chen Y, Liu H, Zhang S, Yin G, Xie Q. Augmenting regulatory T cells: new therapeutic strategy for rheumatoid arthritis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1312919. [PMID: 38322264 PMCID: PMC10844451 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1312919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune condition marked by inflammation of the joints, degradation of the articular cartilage, and bone resorption. Recent studies found the absolute and relative decreases in circulating regulatory T cells (Tregs) in RA patients. Tregs are a unique type of cells exhibiting immunosuppressive functions, known for expressing the Foxp3 gene. They are instrumental in maintaining immunological tolerance and preventing autoimmunity. Increasing the absolute number and/or enhancing the function of Tregs are effective strategies for treating RA. This article reviews the studies on the mechanisms and targeted therapies related to Tregs in RA, with a view to provide better ideas for the treatment of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqian Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongjiang Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuehong Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shengxiao Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Geng Yin
- Department of General Practice, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qibing Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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2
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Liang Y, Wang L, Ma P, Ju D, Zhao M, Shi Y. Enhancing anti-tumor immune responses through combination therapies: epigenetic drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1308264. [PMID: 38077327 PMCID: PMC10704038 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1308264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are processes that affect gene expression and cellular functions without involving changes in the DNA sequence. This abnormal or unstable expression of genes regulated by epigenetics can trigger cancer and other various diseases. The immune cells involved in anti-tumor responses and the immunogenicity of tumors may also be affected by epigenomic changes. This holds significant implications for the development and application of cancer immunotherapy, epigenetic therapy, and their combined treatments in the fight against cancer. We provide an overview of recent research literature focusing on how epigenomic changes in immune cells influence immune cell behavior and function, as well as the immunogenicity of cancer cells. And the combined utilization of epigenetic medications with immune checkpoint inhibitors that focus on immune checkpoint molecules [e.g., Programmed Death 1 (PD-1), Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated Protein 4 (CTLA-4), T cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin Domain (TIM-3), Lymphocyte Activation Gene-3 (LAG-3)] present in immune cells and stromal cells associated with tumors. We highlight the potential of small-molecule inhibitors targeting epigenetic regulators to amplify anti-tumor immune responses. Moreover, we discuss how to leverage the intricate relationship between cancer epigenetics and cancer immunology to create treatment regimens that integrate epigenetic therapies with immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liang
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan Wuchang Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Peijun Ma
- Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongen Ju
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Minggao Zhao
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yun Shi
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA, United States
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3
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Al-Hawary SIS, Kashikova K, Ioffe EM, Izbasarova A, Hjazi A, Tayyib NA, Alsalamy A, Hussien BM, Hameed M, Abdalkareem MJ. Pathological role of LncRNAs in immune-related disease via regulation of T regulatory cells. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 249:154709. [PMID: 37586216 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Human regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential in pathogenesis of several diseases such as autoimmune diseases and cancers, and their imbalances may be promoting factor in these disorders. The development of the proinflammatory T cell subset TH17 and its balance with the generation of regulatory T cells (Treg) is linked to autoimmune disease and cancers. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently emerged as powerful regulatory molecules in a variety of diseases and can regulate the expression of significant genes at multiple levels through epigenetic regulation and by modulating transcription, post-transcriptional processes, translation, and protein modification. They may interact with a wide range of molecules, including DNA, RNA, and proteins, and have a complex structural makeup. LncRNAs are implicated in a range of illnesses due to their regulatory impact on a variety of biological processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. In this regard, a prominent example is lncRNA NEAT1 which several studies have performed to determine its role in the differentiation of immune cells. Many other lncRNAs have been linked to Treg cell differentiation in the context of immune cell differentiation. In this study, we review recent research on the various roles of lncRNAs in differentiation of Treg cell and regulation of the Th17/Treg balance in autoimmune diseases and tumors in which T regs play an important role.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Khadisha Kashikova
- Caspian University, International School of Medicine, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Elena M Ioffe
- Department of Military Clinical Hospital, Ministry of Defence, Almaty, Kazakhstan.
| | | | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahla A Tayyib
- Faculty of Nursing, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Alsalamy
- College of technical engineering, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al-Muthanna 66002, Iraq
| | - Beneen M Hussien
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Mohamood Hameed
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
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4
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Yang J, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Yu X, Shi S. Epigenetic regulation in the tumor microenvironment: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:210. [PMID: 37217462 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01480-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Over decades, researchers have focused on the epigenetic control of DNA-templated processes. Histone modification, DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, RNA modification, and noncoding RNAs modulate many biological processes that are crucial to the development of cancers. Dysregulation of the epigenome drives aberrant transcriptional programs. A growing body of evidence suggests that the mechanisms of epigenetic modification are dysregulated in human cancers and might be excellent targets for tumor treatment. Epigenetics has also been shown to influence tumor immunogenicity and immune cells involved in antitumor responses. Thus, the development and application of epigenetic therapy and cancer immunotherapy and their combinations may have important implications for cancer treatment. Here, we present an up-to-date and thorough description of how epigenetic modifications in tumor cells influence immune cell responses in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and how epigenetics influence immune cells internally to modify the TME. Additionally, we highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic regulators for cancer immunotherapy. Harnessing the complex interplay between epigenetics and cancer immunology to develop therapeutics that combine thereof is challenging but could yield significant benefits. The purpose of this review is to assist researchers in understanding how epigenetics impact immune responses in the TME, so that better cancer immunotherapies can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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5
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Li T. The functions of polycomb group proteins in T cells. CELL INSIGHT 2022; 1:100048. [PMID: 37193554 PMCID: PMC10120301 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2022.100048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
T cells are involved in many aspects of adaptive immunity, including autoimmunity, anti-tumor activity, and responses to allergenic substances and pathogens. T cells undergo comprehensive epigenome remodeling in response to signals. Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are a well-studied complex of chromatin regulators, conserved in animals, and function in various biological processes. PcG proteins are divided into two distinct complexes: PRC1 (Polycomb repressive complex 1) and PRC2. PcG is correlated with the regulation of T cell development, phenotypic transformation, and function. In contrast, PcG dysregulation is correlated with pathogenesis of immune-mediated diseases and compromised anti-tumor responses. This review discusses recent findings on the involvement of PcG proteins in T cell maturation, differentiation, and activation. In addition, we explore implications in the development of the immune system diseases and cancer immunity, which offers promising targets for various treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin, 300070, China
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6
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Szukiewicz D. Epigenetic regulation and T-cell responses in endometriosis – something other than autoimmunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:943839. [PMID: 35935991 PMCID: PMC9355085 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.943839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial-like glands and stroma located outside the uterine cavity. This common, estrogen dependent, inflammatory condition affects up to 15% of reproductive-aged women and is a well-recognized cause of chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Despite the still unknown etiology of endometriosis, much evidence suggests the participation of epigenetic mechanisms in the disease etiopathogenesis. The main rationale is based on the fact that heritable phenotype changes that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence are common triggers for hormonal, immunological, and inflammatory disorders, which play a key role in the formation of endometriotic foci. Epigenetic mechanisms regulating T-cell responses, including DNA methylation and posttranslational histone modifications, deserve attention because tissue-resident T lymphocytes work in concert with organ structural cells to generate appropriate immune responses and are functionally shaped by organ-specific environmental conditions. Thus, a failure to precisely regulate immune cell transcription may result in compromised immunological integrity of the organ with an increased risk of inflammatory disorders. The coexistence of endometriosis and autoimmunity is a well-known occurrence. Recent research results indicate regulatory T-cell (Treg) alterations in endometriosis, and an increased number of highly active Tregs and macrophages have been found in peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis. Elimination of the regulatory function of T cells and an imbalance between T helper cells of the Th1 and Th2 types have been reported in the endometria of women with endometriosis-associated infertility. This review aims to present the state of the art in recognition epigenetic reprogramming of T cells as the key factor in the pathophysiology of endometriosis in the context of T-cell-related autoimmunity. The new potential therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic modulation and/or adoptive transfer of T cells will also be outlined.
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7
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Han Z, Ma K, Tao H, Liu H, Zhang J, Sai X, Li Y, Chi M, Nian Q, Song L, Liu C. A Deep Insight Into Regulatory T Cell Metabolism in Renal Disease: Facts and Perspectives. Front Immunol 2022; 13:826732. [PMID: 35251009 PMCID: PMC8892604 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.826732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidney disease encompasses a complex set of diseases that can aggravate or start systemic pathophysiological processes through their complex metabolic mechanisms and effects on body homoeostasis. The prevalence of kidney disease has increased dramatically over the last two decades. CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells that express the transcription factor forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3) are critical for maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing autoimmune disease and tissue damage caused by excessive or unnecessary immune activation, including autoimmune kidney diseases. Recent studies have highlighted the critical role of metabolic reprogramming in controlling the plasticity, stability, and function of Treg cells. They are also likely to play a vital role in limiting kidney transplant rejection and potentially promoting transplant tolerance. Metabolic pathways, such as mitochondrial function, glycolysis, lipid synthesis, glutaminolysis, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) activation, are involved in the development of renal diseases by modulating the function and proliferation of Treg cells. Targeting metabolic pathways to alter Treg cells can offer a promising method for renal disease therapy. In this review, we provide a new perspective on the role of Treg cell metabolism in renal diseases by presenting the renal microenvironment、relevant metabolites of Treg cell metabolism, and the role of Treg cell metabolism in various kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyu Han
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Renal Disease Clinical Research Center, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Kuai Ma
- Department of Nephrology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hongxia Tao
- Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongli Liu
- Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiong Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Renal Disease Clinical Research Center, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiyalatu Sai
- Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia University for the Nationalities, Tongliao, China
| | - Yunlong Li
- Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingxuan Chi
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Renal Disease Clinical Research Center, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Qing Nian
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China.,Department of Blood Transfusion Sicuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Linjiang Song
- Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Chi Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Renal Disease Clinical Research Center, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, China
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8
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Dutta A, Venkataganesh H, Love PE. New Insights into Epigenetic Regulation of T Cell Differentiation. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123459. [PMID: 34943965 PMCID: PMC8700096 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immature CD4− CD8− thymocytes progress through several developmental steps in the thymus, ultimately emerging as mature CD4+ (helper) or CD8+ (cytotoxic) T cells. Activation of naïve CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the presence of specific cytokines results in the induction of transcriptional programs that result in their differentiation into effector or memory cells and in the case of CD4+ T cells, the adoption of distinct T-helper fates. Previous studies have shown that histone modification and DNA methylation play important roles in each of these events. More recently, the roles of specific epigenetic regulators in T cell differentiation have been clarified. The identification of the epigenetic modifications and modifiers that control mature T cell differentiation and specification has also provided further insights into how dysregulation of these processes can lead to cancer or autoimmune diseases. In this review, we summarize recent findings that have provided new insights into epigenetic regulation of T cell differentiation in both mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avik Dutta
- Section on Hematopoiesis and Lymphocyte Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.D.); (H.V.)
| | - Harini Venkataganesh
- Section on Hematopoiesis and Lymphocyte Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.D.); (H.V.)
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Paul E. Love
- Section on Hematopoiesis and Lymphocyte Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.D.); (H.V.)
- Correspondence:
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Ben-Skowronek I. IPEX Syndrome: Genetics and Treatment Options. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:323. [PMID: 33668198 PMCID: PMC7995986 DOI: 10.3390/genes12030323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: IPEX (immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked) syndrome characterizes a complex autoimmune reaction beginning in the perinatal period, caused by a dysfunction of the transcription factor forkhead box P3 (FOXP3). (2) Objectives: Studies have shown the clinical, immunological, and molecular heterogeneity of patients with IPEX syndrome. The symptoms, treatment, and survival were closely connected to the genotype of the IPEX syndrome. Recognition of the kind of mutation is important for the diagnostics of IPEX syndrome in newborns and young infants, as well as in prenatal screening. The method of choice for treatment is hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and immunosuppressive therapy. In children, supportive therapy for refractory diarrhea is very important, as well as replacement therapy of diabetes mellitus type 1 (DMT1) and other endocrinopathies. In the future, genetic engineering methods may be of use in the successful treatment of IPEX syndrome. (3) Conclusions: The genetic defects determine a diagnostic approach and prognosis, making the knowledge of the genetics of IPEX syndrome fundamental to introducing novel treatment methods.
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MESH Headings
- Allografts
- Animals
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/congenital
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/diagnosis
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/genetics
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/therapy
- Diarrhea/diagnosis
- Diarrhea/genetics
- Diarrhea/metabolism
- Diarrhea/therapy
- Female
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Genetic Diseases, X-Linked/diagnosis
- Genetic Diseases, X-Linked/genetics
- Genetic Diseases, X-Linked/metabolism
- Genetic Diseases, X-Linked/therapy
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
- Humans
- Immune System Diseases/congenital
- Immune System Diseases/diagnosis
- Immune System Diseases/genetics
- Immune System Diseases/metabolism
- Immune System Diseases/therapy
- Infant
- Infant, Newborn
- Male
- Mutation
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Ben-Skowronek
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical University, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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Lower Functional and Proportional Characteristics of Cord Blood Treg of Male Newborns Compared with Female Newborns. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9020170. [PMID: 33572097 PMCID: PMC7915235 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the early events involved in the induction of immune tolerance to harmless environmental antigens and microbiota compounds could reveal potential targets for allergic disease therapy or prevention. Regulatory T cells (Treg), particularly induced Treg (iTreg), are crucial for the induction and maintenance of tolerance against environmental antigens including allergens. A decrease in the number and/or function of Treg or iTreg could represent an early predictor of allergy development. We analyzed proportional and functional properties of Treg in the cord blood of children of allergic mothers (neonates at high risk of allergy development) and healthy mothers (neonates with relatively low risk of allergy development). We observed a higher number of induced Treg in the cord blood of females compared to males, suggesting an impaired capacity of male immunity to set up tolerance to allergens, which could contribute to the higher incidence of allergy observed in male infants. The decreased proportion of iTreg in cord blood compared with maternal peripheral blood documents the general immaturity of the neonatal immune system. We observed a positive correlation in the demethylation of the Treg-specific demethylated region (TSDR) and the proportion of Treg in cord blood. Our data suggest that immaturity of the neonatal immune system is more severe in males, predisposing them to increased risk of allergy development.
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11
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Value of cord blood Treg population properties and function-associated characteristics for predicting allergy development in childhood. Cent Eur J Immunol 2021; 45:393-402. [PMID: 33613093 PMCID: PMC7882409 DOI: 10.5114/ceji.2020.103413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergic diseases represent some of the most common immunological disorders with high clinical and economic impact. Despite intensive research, there are still few universally accepted and reliable biomarkers capable of predicting their development at an early age. There is therefore a pressing need for identification of potential predictive factors and validation of their prognostic value by correlating them with allergy development. Dysbalance of the branches of immune response, most often excessive Th2 polarization, is the principal cause of allergic diseases. Regulatory T cells (Treg) are a crucial population for the timely establishment of physiological immune polarization and induction and maintenance of tolerance against environmental antigens. This makes them a potentially promising candidate for an early marker predicting allergy development. In our study, we analysed samples of cord blood of children of allergic mothers and children of healthy mothers by flow cytometry and retrospectively correlated the data with clinical allergy status of the children at the age of 6 to 10 years. Studied parameters included cord blood Treg population proportions and functional properties - intracellular presence of IL-10 and TGF-b, MFI of FoxP3. We observed higher percentage of Tregs in cord blood of children who did not develop allergy compared with allergic children. Further, we found higher numbers of IL-10+ Tregs in cord blood of healthy children of healthy mothers than in cord blood of children of allergic mothers and decreased TGF-b+ cord blood Tregs in the group of allergic children of allergic mothers compared to all other groups.
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12
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Targeting the epigenetic regulation of antitumour immunity. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2020; 19:776-800. [PMID: 32929243 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-020-0077-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the epigenome drives aberrant transcriptional programmes that promote cancer onset and progression. Although defective gene regulation often affects oncogenic and tumour-suppressor networks, tumour immunogenicity and immune cells involved in antitumour responses may also be affected by epigenomic alterations. This could have important implications for the development and application of both epigenetic therapies and cancer immunotherapies, and combinations thereof. Here, we review the role of key aberrant epigenetic processes - DNA methylation and post-translational modification of histones - in tumour immunogenicity, as well as the effects of epigenetic modulation on antitumour immune cell function. We emphasize opportunities for small-molecule inhibitors of epigenetic regulators to enhance antitumour immune responses, and discuss the challenges of exploiting the complex interplay between cancer epigenetics and cancer immunology to develop treatment regimens combining epigenetic therapies with immunotherapies.
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13
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Atif M, Conti F, Gorochov G, Oo YH, Miyara M. Regulatory T cells in solid organ transplantation. Clin Transl Immunology 2020; 9:e01099. [PMID: 32104579 PMCID: PMC7036337 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The induction of graft tolerance remains the holy grail of transplantation. This is important as chronic allograft dysfunction and the side effects of immunosuppression regimens place a major burden on the lives of transplant patients and their healthcare systems. This has mandated the need to understand the immunobiology of graft rejection and identify novel therapeutics. Regulatory T (Treg) cells play an important role in modulating pro‐inflammatory microenvironments and maintaining tissue homeostasis. However, there are fundamental unanswered questions regarding Treg cell immunobiology. These cells are a heterogeneous entity with functionally diverse roles. Moreover, the adoption of novel deeper immunophenotyping and genomic sequencing technologies has identified this phenotype and function to be more complex than expected. Hence, a comprehensive understanding of Treg cell heterogeneity is needed to safely and effectively exploit their therapeutic potential. From a clinical perspective, the recent decade has seen different clinical teams commence and complete first‐in‐man clinical trials utilising Treg cells as an adoptive cellular therapy. In this review, we discuss these trials from a translational perspective with an important focus on safety. Finally, we identify crucial knowledge gaps for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Atif
- Sorbonne Université Inserm U1135 Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris) Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière AP-HP Paris France.,Unité de Transplantation Hépatique Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière AP-HP Paris France.,Centre for Liver and Gastro Research NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre University of Birmingham Birmingham UK.,Academic Department of Surgery University of Birmingham Birmingham UK
| | - Filomena Conti
- Unité de Transplantation Hépatique Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière AP-HP Paris France
| | - Guy Gorochov
- Sorbonne Université Inserm U1135 Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris) Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière AP-HP Paris France
| | - Ye Htun Oo
- Centre for Liver and Gastro Research NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre University of Birmingham Birmingham UK.,Liver Transplant and HPB Unit Queen Elizabeth Hospital University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust Birmingham UK
| | - Makoto Miyara
- Sorbonne Université Inserm U1135 Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris) Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière AP-HP Paris France
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14
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Huang Q, Liu X, Zhang Y, Huang J, Li D, Li B. Molecular feature and therapeutic perspectives of immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked syndrome. J Genet Genomics 2020; 47:17-26. [PMID: 32081609 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2019.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells, a subtype of immunosuppressive CD4+ T cells, are vital for maintaining immune homeostasis in healthy people. Forkhead box protein P3 (FOXP3), a member of the forkhead-winged-helix family, is the pivotal transcriptional factor of Treg cells. The expression, post-translational modifications, and protein complex of FOXP3 present a great impact on the functional stability and immune plasticity of Treg cells in vivo. In particular, the mutation of FOXP3 can result in immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked (IPEX) syndrome, which is a rare genetic disease mostly diagnosed in early childhood and can soon be fatal. IPEX syndrome is related to several manifestations, including dermatitis, enteropathy, type 1 diabetes, thyroiditis, and so on. Here, we summarize some recent findings on FOXP3 regulation and Treg cell function. We also review the current knowledge about the underlying mechanism of FOXP3 mutant-induced IPEX syndrome and some latest clinical prospects. At last, this review offers a novel insight into the role played by the FOXP3 complex in potential therapeutic applications in IPEX syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianru Huang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yujia Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jingyao Huang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Dan Li
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Bin Li
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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15
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Sambucci M, Gargano F, Guerrera G, Battistini L, Borsellino G. One, No One, and One Hundred Thousand: T Regulatory Cells' Multiple Identities in Neuroimmunity. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2947. [PMID: 31956323 PMCID: PMC6955595 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As the Nobel laureate Luigi Pirandello wrote in his novels, identities can be evanescent. Although a quarter of a century has passed since regulatory T cells (Treg) were first described, new studies continue to reveal surprising and contradictory features of this lymphocyte subset. Treg cells are the core of the immunological workforce engaged in the restraint of autoimmune or inflammatory reactions, and their characterization has revealed substantial heterogeneity and complexity in the phenotype and gene expression profiles, proving them to be a most versatile and adaptive cell type, as exemplified by their plasticity in fine-tuning immune responses. Defects in Treg function are associated with several autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis, which is caused by an inappropriate immune reaction toward brain components; conversely, the beneficial effects of immunomodulating therapies on disease progression have been shown to partly act upon the biology of these cells. Both in animals and in humans the pool of circulating Treg cells is a mixture of natural (nTregs) and peripherally-induced Treg (pTregs). Particularly in humans, circulating Treg cells can be phenotypically subdivided into different subpopulations, which so far are not well-characterized, particularly in the context of autoimmunity. Recently, Treg cells have been rediscovered as mediators of tissue healing, and have also shown to be involved in organ homeostasis. Moreover, stability of the Treg lineage has recently been addressed by several conflicting reports, and immune-suppressive abilities of these cells have been shown to be dynamically regulated, particularly in inflammatory conditions, adding further levels of complexity to the study of this cell subset. Finally, Treg cells exert their suppressive function through different mechanisms, some of which—such as their ectoenzymatic activity—are particularly relevant in CNS autoimmunity. Here, we will review the phenotypically and functionally discernible Treg cell subpopulations in health and in multiple sclerosis, touching also upon the effects on this cell type of immunomodulatory drugs used for the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manolo Sambucci
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Battistini
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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16
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Hagihara Y, Yoshimatsu Y, Mikami Y, Takada Y, Mizuno S, Kanai T. Epigenetic regulation of T helper cells and intestinal pathogenicity. Semin Immunopathol 2019; 41:379-399. [DOI: 10.1007/s00281-019-00732-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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17
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Regulatory Immune Cells. Clin Immunol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-7020-6896-6.00018-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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18
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Černý V, Hrdý J, Novotná O, Petrásková P, Boráková K, Kolářová L, Prokešová L. Distinct characteristics of Tregs of newborns of healthy and allergic mothers. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207998. [PMID: 30475891 PMCID: PMC6258229 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergic diseases represent a major issue in clinical and experimental immunology due to their high and increasing incidence worldwide. Allergy status of the mother remains the best predictor of an individual's increased risk of allergy development. Dysregulation of the balance between different branches of immune response, chiefly excessive polarization towards Th2, is the underlying cause of allergic diseases. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a pivotal role in the timely establishment of physiological immune polarization and are crucial for control of allergy. In our study we used flow cytometry to assess Tregs in cord blood of newborns of healthy (n = 121) and allergic (n = 108) mothers. We observed a higher percentage of Tregs (CD4+CD25+CD127lowFoxP3+) in cord blood of children of allergic mothers. However, the percentage of cells expressing extracellular (PD-1, CTLA-4, GITR) and intracellular (IL-10, TGF-β) markers of function was lower (significantly for PD-1 and IL-10) within Tregs of these children. Furthermore, Helios- induced Tregs in the cord blood of children of allergic mothers were decreased. These results were supported by a decrease in plasma levels of IL-10 and TGF-β in cord blood of newborns of allergic mothers, implying lower tolerogenic capacity on the systemic level. Taken together, these findings reflect deficient function of Tregs in the group with higher risk of allergy development. This may be caused by a lower maturation status of the immune system, specifically Tregs, at birth. Such immaturity may represent an important mechanism involved in the increased risk of allergy in children of allergic mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Černý
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Hrdý
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Olga Novotná
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Petrásková
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Libuše Kolářová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ludmila Prokešová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
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19
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Zhang H, Li Y, Liu X, Liang Z, Yan M, Liu Q, Chen A, Bao Y, Zhou C, Li S, Yee C, Li Y. ImmTAC/Anti-PD-1 antibody combination to enhance killing of cancer cells by reversing regulatory T-cell-mediated immunosuppression. Immunology 2018; 155:238-250. [PMID: 29791021 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, bi-functional molecules that can redirect immune effectors to tumour cells have emerged as potentially robust mediators of tumour regression in clinical trials. Two modalities in particular, bi-specific antibodies for T-cell redirection and activation (BiTe) and immune-mobilizing monoclonal T-cell receptors against cancer (ImmTAC), are being evaluated in efficacy studies as 'off-the-shelf' reagents. Optimal therapy will require an understanding and means to address regulatory mechanisms of limiting efficacy. In light of this, we evaluated the impact of induced regulatory T (iTreg) cells on the efficacy of tumour cell killing redirected by ImmTAC and demonstrated down-regulation of T-cell proliferation and expression of CD25, CD107a, Granzyme B and Perforin by ImmTAC-redirected T cells. Significant recovery of ImmTAC potency, however, could be achieved when combined with an anti-programmed cell death protein 1 monoclonal antibody. Furthermore, we found that among lung cancer patients failing to respond to ImmTAC therapy, there was a significantly higher fraction of Treg cells in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of lung cancer patients than in healthy donors. These results provide in vitro evidence for an iTreg cell-mediated immunosuppression of ImmTAC-redirected T-cell responses. Whilst immune checkpoint blockade can reverse the Treg cell suppression, it forms a rational basis for a combination of the blockade with ImmTAC in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanling Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoping Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhaoduan Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mengyong Yan
- XiangXue Life Sciences Research Centre, XiangXue Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Anan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yifeng Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengzhi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Centre for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shiyue Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Centre for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Cassian Yee
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology and Department of Immunology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,XiangXue Life Sciences Research Centre, XiangXue Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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20
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Garg G, Nikolouli E, Hardtke-Wolenski M, Toker A, Ohkura N, Beckstette M, Miyao T, Geffers R, Floess S, Gerdes N, Lutgens E, Osterloh A, Hori S, Sakaguchi S, Jaeckel E, Huehn J. Unique properties of thymic antigen-presenting cells promote epigenetic imprinting of alloantigen-specific regulatory T cells. Oncotarget 2018; 8:35542-35557. [PMID: 28415767 PMCID: PMC5482597 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are potential immunotherapeutic candidates to induce transplantation tolerance. However, stability of Tregs still remains contentious and may potentially restrict their clinical use. Recent work suggested that epigenetic imprinting of Foxp3 and other Treg-specific signature genes is crucial for stabilization of immunosuppressive properties of Foxp3+ Tregs, and that these events are initiated already during early stages of thymic Treg development. However, the mechanisms governing this process remain largely unknown. Here we demonstrate that thymic antigen-presenting cells (APCs), including thymic dendritic cells (t-DCs) and medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs), can induce a more pronounced demethylation of Foxp3 and other Treg-specific epigenetic signature genes in developing Tregs when compared to splenic DCs (sp-DCs). Transcriptomic profiling of APCs revealed differential expression of secreted factors and costimulatory molecules, however neither addition of conditioned media nor interference with costimulatory signals affected Foxp3 induction by thymic APCs in vitro. Importantly, when tested in vivo both mTEC- and t-DC-generated alloantigen-specific Tregs displayed significantly higher efficacy in prolonging skin allograft acceptance when compared to Tregs generated by sp-DCs. Our results draw attention to unique properties of thymic APCs in initiating commitment towards stable and functional Tregs, a finding that could be highly beneficial in clinical immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garima Garg
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Eirini Nikolouli
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Matthias Hardtke-Wolenski
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Aras Toker
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Naganari Ohkura
- Department of Experimental Immunology, World Premier International Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.,Department of Experimental Pathology, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Michael Beckstette
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Takahisa Miyao
- Laboratory for Immune Homeostasis, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama City, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Robert Geffers
- Genome Analytics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Stefan Floess
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Norbert Gerdes
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.,Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Vascular Medicine Medical Faculty, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Esther Lutgens
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.,Department of Medical Biochemistry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anke Osterloh
- Department of Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Shohei Hori
- Laboratory for Immune Homeostasis, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama City, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Shimon Sakaguchi
- Department of Experimental Immunology, World Premier International Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.,Department of Experimental Pathology, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jochen Huehn
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
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21
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The main objective of this review is to briefly highlight how we gradually came to understand regulatory T cells (Tregs) and forkhead box p3 (FoxP3) biology, including their function and regulation. We will also discuss how this knowledge is being translated into the clinical setting and the significant challenges that need to be overcome. RECENT FINDINGS CD4FoxP3 Tregs are key players in immune regulation. Their deficiency and dysfunction have been implicated in the pathogenesis of many autoimmune diseases. This has led towards extensive work across the years to figure out the biology and suppressive mechanisms of these cells. Furthermore, Tregs' ability to suppress immune responses makes the idea of their utilization in adoptive immunotherapy appealing. Work has been underway to establish ideal methods to integrate Tregs into the management of autoimmune diseases and alloimmunity, either by treatment with IL-2 or infusion of ex-vivo expanded Tregs. Despite Tregs' scarcity and increased tendency for Activation-induced cell death, many groups have developed effective methods to expand them ex vivo. SUMMARY Although clinical trials are ongoing to test the safety and efficacy of regulatory cells in transplant recipients, it is vital to continue exploring the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control their stability and homeostasis.
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22
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Ochando J, Braza MS. T follicular helper cells: a potential therapeutic target in follicular lymphoma. Oncotarget 2017; 8:112116-112131. [PMID: 29340116 PMCID: PMC5762384 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.22788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicular lymphoma (FL), the most common indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL), is a germinal center (GC)-derived lymphoma. The mechanisms underlying B-cell differentiation/maturation in GCs could be also involved in their malignant transformation. Moreover, the non-malignant cell composition and architecture of the tumor microenvironment can influence FL development and outcome. Here, we review recent research advances on CD4 helper T cells in FL that highlight the pivotal role of T follicular helper (TFH) cells in a complex multicellular system where they interact with B cells during GC dynamics. After describing the mechanism of FL lymphomagenesis, we discuss the emerging evidence about TFH cell enrichment and involvement in FL tumorigenesis and in B-T cell interaction, TFH regulation by T follicular regulatory cells (TFR) and its potential effect on FL. Then, we provide an overview on the flexible interplay between the different CD4 T-cell subtypes and how this may be predicted in normal and pathologic contexts, according to the cell epigenetic state. Finally, we highlight the importance of targeting TFH cells in the clinic, summarize the main outstanding questions about TFH and TFR cells in FL, and describe strategies to potentiate FL therapy by taking into account TFH cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Ochando
- Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Mounia S Braza
- Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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23
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The role of regulatory T cells and genes involved in their differentiation in pathogenesis of selected inflammatory and neoplastic skin diseases. Part I: Treg properties and functions. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2017; 34:285-294. [PMID: 28951701 PMCID: PMC5560174 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2017.69305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) can be divided into two types: the natural cells (tTreg), which arise in the thymus, and the induced cells (iTreg), which are produced in peripheral tissues during immune response. The most recently published studies indicate that the supervisory functions of these cells are weakened in the pathogenesis of autoimmune and neoplastic diseases of the skin. This may be a result of the domination of other immune cells in the skin, such as Th1/Th17/Th22 and Tc1 type in psoriasis and Th2 in atopic dermatitis. The excessive activity of Treg cells can lead to immunosuppression and decrease in the number of Th1 cells, which promote the development and progression of skin cancers. In the case of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, there are suggestions that tumor progression is associated with the acquisition of the suppressor phenotype of malignant cells. There is genetic background of Treg dysfunction in skin disorders. This article describes the types and functions of Treg cells.
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24
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Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) represent a cell type that promotes immune tolerance to autologous components and maintains immune system homeostasis. The abnormal function of Tregs is relevant to the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and other autoimmune diseases. Therefore, therapeutic modulation of Tregs could be a potent means of treating autoimmune diseases. Human Tregs are diverse, however, and not all of them have immunosuppressive effects. Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), a pivotal transcription factor of Tregs that is crucial in maintaining Treg immunosuppressive function, can be expressed heterogeneously or unstably across Treg subpopulations. Insights into modulating Treg differentiation on the level of DNA transcription or protein modification may improve the success of Treg modifying immunotherapies. In this review, we will summarize three main prospects: the regulatory mechanism of Foxp3, the influence on Foxp3 and Tregs in autoimmune diseases, then finally, how Tregs can be used to treat autoimmune diseases.
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25
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Ferreira RC, Rainbow DB, Rubio García A, Pekalski ML, Porter L, Oliveira JJ, Waldron-Lynch F, Wicker LS, Todd JA. Human IL-6R hiTIGIT - CD4 +CD127 lowCD25 + T cells display potent in vitro suppressive capacity and a distinct Th17 profile. Clin Immunol 2017; 179:25-39. [PMID: 28284938 PMCID: PMC5471606 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To date many clinical studies aim to increase the number and/or fitness of CD4+ CD127lowCD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in vivo to harness their regulatory potential in the context of treating autoimmune disease. Here, we sought to define the phenotype and function of Tregs expressing the highest levels of IL-6 receptor (IL-6R). We have identified a population of CD4+ CD127lowCD25+ TIGIT− T cells distinguished by their elevated IL-6R expression that lacked expression of HELIOS, showed higher CTLA-4 expression, and displayed increased suppressive capacity compared to IL-6RhiTIGIT+ Tregs. IL-6RhiTIGIT− CD127lowCD25+ T cells contained a majority of cells demethylated at FOXP3 and displayed a Th17 transcriptional signature, including RORC (RORγt) and the capacity of producing both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-17, IL-22 and IL-10. We propose that in vivo, in the presence of IL-6-associated inflammation, the suppressive function of CD4+ CD127lowCD25+ FOXP3+ IL-6RhiTIGIT− T cells is temporarily disarmed allowing further activation of the effector functions and potential pathogenic tissue damage. IL-6R is highly expressed in certain Treg subsets. IL-6RhiTIGIT− CD127lowCD25+ T cells contain a subset of antigen-experienced Tregs with potent suppression capacity. IL-6RhiTIGIT− Tregs display a Th17 transcriptional profile ex vivo, and the capacity to migrate to the gut. IL-2 treatment in humans elicits the trafficking and expansion of Tregs in circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo C Ferreira
- JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Medical Genetics, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Daniel B Rainbow
- JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Medical Genetics, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Arcadio Rubio García
- JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Medical Genetics, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marcin L Pekalski
- JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Medical Genetics, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Linsey Porter
- JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Medical Genetics, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - João J Oliveira
- JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Medical Genetics, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Frank Waldron-Lynch
- Experimental Medicine and Immunotherapeutics, Department of Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; NIHR Cambridge Clinical Trial Unit, Cambridge NHS University Hospitals Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Linda S Wicker
- JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Medical Genetics, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - John A Todd
- JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; JDRF/Wellcome Trust Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Medical Genetics, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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26
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Wang Z, Lu Q, Wang Z. Epigenetic Alterations in Cellular Immunity: New Insights into Autoimmune Diseases. Cell Physiol Biochem 2017; 41:645-660. [PMID: 28214857 DOI: 10.1159/000457944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modification is an additional regulator in immune responses as the genome-wide profiling somehow fails to explain the sophisticated mechanisms in autoimmune diseases. The effect of epigenetic modifications on adaptive immunity derives from their regulations to induce a permissive or negative gene expression. Epigenetic events, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNAs (miRNAs) are often found in T cell activation, differentiation and commitment which are the major parts in cellular immunity. Recognizing the complexity of interactions between epigenetic mechanisms and immune disturbance in autoimmune diseases is essential for the exploration of efficient therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize a list of studies that indicate the significance of dysregulated epigenetic modifications in autoimmune diseases while focusing on T cell immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhihui Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Wang Z, Yin H, Lau CS, Lu Q. Histone Posttranslational Modifications of CD4⁺ T Cell in Autoimmune Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101547. [PMID: 27669210 PMCID: PMC5085618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The complexity of immune system is tempered by precise regulation to maintain stabilization when exposed to various conditions. A subtle change in gene expression may be magnified when drastic changes are brought about in cellular development and function. Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) timely alter the functional activity of immune system, and work proceeded in these years has begun to throw light upon it. Posttranslational modifications of histone tails have been mentioned in a large scale of biological developments and disease progression, thereby making them a central field to investigate. Conventional assessments of these changes are centered on the transcription factors and cytokines in T cells regulated by variable histone codes to achieve chromatin remodeling, as well as involved in many human diseases, especially autoimmune diseases. We here put forward an essential review of core posttranslational modulations that regulate T cell function and differentiation in the immune system, with a special emphasis on histone modifications in different T helper cell subsets as well as in autoimmune diseases.
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MESH Headings
- Autoimmune Diseases/immunology
- Autoimmune Diseases/metabolism
- Autoimmune Diseases/pathology
- CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/cytology
- CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/immunology
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/pathology
- Histones/metabolism
- Humans
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/immunology
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/metabolism
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/pathology
- Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/immunology
- Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/metabolism
- Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/pathology
- Multiple Sclerosis/immunology
- Multiple Sclerosis/metabolism
- Multiple Sclerosis/pathology
- Protein Processing, Post-Translational
- Scleroderma, Systemic/immunology
- Scleroderma, Systemic/metabolism
- Scleroderma, Systemic/pathology
- T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer/cytology
- T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, China.
| | - Heng Yin
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, China.
| | - Chak Sing Lau
- Division of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, China.
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Kuhn C, Besançon A, Lemoine S, You S, Marquet C, Candon S, Chatenoud L. Regulatory mechanisms of immune tolerance in type 1 diabetes and their failures. J Autoimmun 2016; 71:69-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Melnik BC, John SM, Carrera-Bastos P, Schmitz G. Milk: a postnatal imprinting system stabilizing FoxP3 expression and regulatory T cell differentiation. Clin Transl Allergy 2016; 6:18. [PMID: 27175277 PMCID: PMC4864898 DOI: 10.1186/s13601-016-0108-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breastfeeding has protective effects for the development of allergies and atopy. Recent evidence underlines that consumption of unboiled farm milk in early life is a key factor preventing the development of atopic diseases. Farm milk intake has been associated with increased demethylation of FOXP3 and increased numbers of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Thus, the questions arose which components of farm milk control the differentiation and function of Tregs, critical T cell subsets that promote tolerance induction and inhibit the development of allergy and autoimmunity. FINDINGS Based on translational research we identified at least six major signalling pathways that could explain milk's biological role controlling stable FoxP3 expression and Treg differentiation: (1) via maintaining appropriate magnitudes of Akt-mTORC1 signalling, (2) via transfer of milk fat-derived long-chain ω-3 fatty acids, (3) via transfer of milk-derived exosomal microRNAs that apparently decrease FOXP3 promoter methylation, (4) via transfer of exosomal transforming growth factor-β, which induces SMAD2/SMAD3-dependent FoxP3 expression, (5) via milk-derived Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species that induce interleukin-10 (IL-10)-mediated differentiation of Tregs, and (6) via milk-derived oligosaccharides that serve as selected nutrients for the growth of bifidobacteria in the intestine of the new born infant. CONCLUSION Accumulating evidence underlines that milk is a complex signalling and epigenetic imprinting network that promotes stable FoxP3 expression and long-lasting Treg differentiation, crucial postnatal events preventing atopic and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodo C Melnik
- Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine and Health Theory, University of Osnabrück, Sedanstrasse 115, 49090 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Swen Malte John
- Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine and Health Theory, University of Osnabrück, Sedanstrasse 115, 49090 Osnabrück, Germany
| | | | - Gerd Schmitz
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Regensburg, University of Regensburg, Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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Bacchetta R, Barzaghi F, Roncarolo MG. From IPEX syndrome to FOXP3
mutation: a lesson on immune dysregulation. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2016; 1417:5-22. [DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 210] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 11/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Bacchetta
- Department of Pediatrics; Division of Pediatric Stem Cells, Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine; Stanford University Medical School; Stanford California
| | - Federica Barzaghi
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy; Division of Regenerative Medicine; Stem Cells and Gene Therapy; San Raffaele Scientific Institute; Milan Italy
| | - Maria-Grazia Roncarolo
- Department of Pediatrics; Division of Pediatric Stem Cells, Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine; Stanford University Medical School; Stanford California
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Rodriguez RM, Lopez-Larrea C, Suarez-Alvarez B. Epigenetic dynamics during CD4+ T cells lineage commitment. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2015; 67:75-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2015.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Revised: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Qi H, Chen G, Huang Y, Si Z, Li J. Foxp3-modified bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells promotes liver allograft tolerance through the generation of regulatory T cells in rats. J Transl Med 2015; 13:274. [PMID: 26293578 PMCID: PMC4545923 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-015-0638-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The transcription factor forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) is a master regulatory gene necessary for the development and function of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have recently emerged as promising candidates for cell-based immunosuppression/tolerance induction protocols. Thus, we hypothesized that MSC-based Foxp3 gene therapy would improve immunosuppressive capacity of MSC and induce donor-specific allograft tolerance in rat’s liver allograft model. Methods The present study utilized a lentivirus vector to overexpress the therapeutic gene Foxp3 on MSC. In vivo, Injections of 2 × 106 MSC, FUGW-MSC or Foxp3-MSC into the portal vein were carried out immediately after liver transplantation. Results Successful gene transfer of Foxp3 in MSC was achieved by lentivirus carrying Foxp3 and Foxp3-MSC engraftment in liver allograft was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. Foxp3-MSC treatment significantly inhibited the proliferation of allogeneic ACI CD4+ T cells to splenocytes (SC) from the same donor strain or third-party BN rat compared with MSC. Foxp3-MSC suppressive effect on the proliferation of CD4+ T cells is contact dependent and associated with Programmed death ligand 1(PD-L1) upregulation in MSC. Co-culture of CD4+ T cells with Foxp3-MSC results in a shift towards a Tregs phenotype. More importantly, Foxp3-MSC monotherapy achieved donor-specific liver allograft tolerance and generated a state of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs-dependent tolerance. Conclusion Foxp3-engineered MSC therapy seems to be a promising and attractive cell therapy approach for inducing immunosuppression or transplant tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haizhi Qi
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 RenMin Road, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Guangshun Chen
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 RenMin Road, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Yaxun Huang
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 RenMin Road, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Zhongzhou Si
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 RenMin Road, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Jiequn Li
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 RenMin Road, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Huehn J, Beyer M. Epigenetic and transcriptional control of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. Semin Immunol 2015; 27:10-8. [PMID: 25801206 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2015.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) present a unique T-cell lineage that plays a key role for the initiation and maintenance of immunological tolerance. Treg cells are characterized by the expression of the forkhead box transcription factor Foxp3, which acts as a lineage-specifying factor and determines the unique properties of these immunosuppressive cells. Work over the past few years has shown that well-defined and precisely controlled events on transcriptional and epigenetic level are required to ensure stable expression of Foxp3 in Treg cells. More recent work suggested that in addition to stable Foxp3 expression, epigenetic modifications of Treg-cell specific genes contribute to the unique phenotype of Treg cells by imprinting their transcriptional program and stabilizing the expression of molecules being essential for the suppressive properties of Treg cells. In this review, we will highlight how Foxp3 expression itself is epigenetically and transcriptionally controlled, how the Treg-cell specific epigenetic signature is achieved, how Foxp3 as transcription factor influences the gene expression programs in Treg cells and how unique properties of Treg-cell subsets are defined by other transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Huehn
- Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstr. 7, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany.
| | - Marc Beyer
- LIMES-Institute, Laboratory for Genomics and Immunoregulation, University of Bonn, Carl-Troll-Str. 31, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
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Chen W, Konkel JE. Development of thymic Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells: TGF-β matters. Eur J Immunol 2015; 45:958-65. [PMID: 25684698 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201444999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2014] [Revised: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
CD4(+) regulatory T cells expressing the transcription factor Foxp3 can be generated in the thymus (tTreg cells), but the cellular and molecular pathways driving their development remain incompletely understood. TGF-β is essential for the generation of Foxp3(+) Treg cells converted from peripheral naïve CD4(+) T cells (pTreg cells), yet a role for TGF-β in tTreg-cell development was initially refuted. Nevertheless, recent studies have unmasked a requirement for TGF-β in the generation of tTreg cells. Experimental evidence reveals that TGF-β in the context of TCR stimulation induces Foxp3 gene transcription in thymic Treg precursors, CD4(+) CD8(-) CD25(-) semimature and mature single-positive thymocytes. Intriguingly, thymic apoptosis was found to be intrinsically linked to the generation of tTreg cells, as apoptosis induced expression of TGF-β intrathymically. In this short review, we will highlight key data, discuss the experimental evidence and propose a modified model of tTreg-cell development involving TGF-β. We will also outline the remaining unresolved questions concerning generation of thymic Foxp3(+) Treg cells and provide our personal perspectives on the mechanisms controlling tTreg-cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- WanJun Chen
- Mucosal Immunology Section, OPCB, NIDCR, 30 Convent Dr., Bethesda, MD, USA
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