1
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Cui G, Abe S, Kato R, Ikuta K. Insights into the heterogeneity of iNKT cells: tissue-resident and circulating subsets shaped by local microenvironmental cues. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1349184. [PMID: 38440725 PMCID: PMC10910067 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1349184] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a distinct subpopulation of innate-like T lymphocytes. They are characterized by semi-invariant T cell receptors (TCRs) that recognize both self and foreign lipid antigens presented by CD1d, a non-polymorphic MHC class I-like molecule. iNKT cells play a critical role in stimulating innate and adaptive immune responses, providing an effective defense against infections and cancers, while also contributing to chronic inflammation. The functions of iNKT cells are specific to their location, ranging from lymphoid to non-lymphoid tissues, such as the thymus, lung, liver, intestine, and adipose tissue. This review aims to provide insights into the heterogeneity of development and function in iNKT cells. First, we will review the expression of master transcription factors that define subsets of iNKT cells and their production of effector molecules such as cytokines and granzymes. In this article, we describe the gene expression profiles contributing to the kinetics, distribution, and cytotoxicity of iNKT cells across different tissue types. We also review the impact of cytokine production in distinct immune microenvironments on iNKT cell heterogeneity, highlighting a recently identified circulating iNKT cell subset. Additionally, we explore the potential of exploiting iNKT cell heterogeneity to create potent immunotherapies for human cancers in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangwei Cui
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinya Abe
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ryoma Kato
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koichi Ikuta
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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2
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Kurioka A, Klenerman P. Aging unconventionally: γδ T cells, iNKT cells, and MAIT cells in aging. Semin Immunol 2023; 69:101816. [PMID: 37536148 PMCID: PMC10804939 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Unconventional T cells include γδ T cells, invariant Natural Killer T cells (iNKT) cells and Mucosal Associated Invariant T (MAIT) cells, which are distinguished from conventional T cells by their recognition of non-peptide ligands presented by non-polymorphic antigen presenting molecules and rapid effector functions that are pre-programmed during their development. Here we review current knowledge of the effect of age on unconventional T cells, from early life to old age, in both mice and humans. We then discuss the role of unconventional T cells in age-associated diseases and infections, highlighting the similarities between members of the unconventional T cell family in the context of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Kurioka
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Paul Klenerman
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Translational Gastroenterology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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3
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Ultrasound-Guided Intra-thymic Cell Injection. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2580:283-292. [PMID: 36374464 PMCID: PMC9847244 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2740-2_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Intra-thymic injection is a powerful tool for adoptive transfer of cells, cellular tag reagents for tracking recent thymic emigrants (RTEs), or other substances directly into the thymus. The traditional approach developed decades ago requires an invasive surgery to open the thoracic cavity and visualize the thymus. Subsequently, a technique was developed requiring only a small skin incision needed to identify the precise injection site. Nevertheless, both techniques require surgical intervention, and this can lead to elevated animal stress levels and pain which necessitates analgesic medication administration. Here we describe a less invasive technique allowing in situ visualization and transfer of cell suspensions or substances into the thymus via an ultrasound-guided intra-thymic injection approach.
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4
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Jin AL, Zhang CY, Zheng WJ, Xian JR, Yang WJ, Liu T, Chen W, Li T, Wang BL, Pan BS, Li Q, Cheng JW, Wang PX, Hu B, Zhou J, Fan J, Yang XR, Guo W. CD155/SRC complex promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression via inhibiting the p38 MAPK signalling pathway and correlates with poor prognosis. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e794. [PMID: 35384345 PMCID: PMC8982318 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignancy with poor prognosis. As a cell adhesion molecule, poliovirus receptor (PVR/CD155) is abnormally overexpressed in tumour cells, and related to tumour proliferation and invasion. However, the potential role and mechanism of CD155 have not yet been elucidated in HCC. Methods Immunohistochemistry, RT‐PCR and Western blot assays were used to determine CD155 expression in HCC cell lines and tissues. Cell Counting Kit‐8 and colony formation assays were used to examine cell proliferation. Transwell and wound healing assays were used to evaluate cell migration and invasion. Cell apoptosis and cycle distribution were assessed by flow cytometry. Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier analyses were performed to explore the clinical significance of CD155. The role of CD155 in vivo was evaluated by establishing liver orthotropic xenograft mice model. RNA sequencing, bioinformatics analysis and co‐immunoprecipitation assay were used to explore the downstream signalling pathway of CD155. Results CD155 was upregulated in HCC tissues and represented a promising prognostic indicator for HCC patients (n = 189) undergoing curative resection. High CD155 expression enhanced cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and contributed to cell survival in HCC. CD155 overexpression also induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition in HCC cells. CD155 function in HCC involved SRC/p38 MAPK signalling pathway. CD155 interacted with SRC homology‐2 domain of SRC and promoted SRC activation, further inhibiting the downstream p38 MAPK signalling pathway in HCC. Conclusions CD155 promotes HCC progression via the SRC/p38 MAPK signalling pathway. CD155 may represent a predictor for poor postsurgery prognosis in HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Li Jin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Chun-Yan Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xiamen Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xiamen, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Jing Zheng
- Department of Liver Surgery & Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shenzhen Key Laboratory, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Jing-Rong Xian
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Jing Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Te Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Shanghai Geriatric Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Tong Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Bei-Li Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xiamen Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xiamen, P. R. China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wusong Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Bai-Shen Pan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wusong Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wusong Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Wen Cheng
- Department of Liver Surgery & Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Peng-Xiang Wang
- Department of Liver Surgery & Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Bo Hu
- Department of Liver Surgery & Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Department of Liver Surgery & Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jia Fan
- Department of Liver Surgery & Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Xin-Rong Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery & Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xiamen Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xiamen, P. R. China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wusong Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
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5
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Classical MHC expression by DP thymocytes impairs the selection of non-classical MHC restricted innate-like T cells. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2308. [PMID: 33863906 PMCID: PMC8052364 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22589-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional T cells are selected by peptide-MHC expressed by cortical epithelial cells in the thymus, and not by cortical thymocytes themselves that do not express MHC I or MHC II. Instead, cortical thymocytes express non-peptide presenting MHC molecules like CD1d and MR1, and promote the selection of PLZF+ iNKT and MAIT cells, respectively. Here, we report an inducible class-I transactivator mouse that enables the expression of peptide presenting MHC I molecules in different cell types. We show that MHC I expression in DP thymocytes leads to expansion of peptide specific PLZF+ innate-like (PIL) T cells. Akin to iNKT cells, PIL T cells differentiate into three functional effector subsets in the thymus, and are dependent on SAP signaling. We demonstrate that PIL and NKT cells compete for a narrow niche, suggesting that the absence of peptide-MHC on DP thymocytes facilitates selection of non-peptide specific lymphocytes.
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6
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Johnston RJ, Lee PS, Strop P, Smyth MJ. Cancer Immunotherapy and the Nectin Family. ANNUAL REVIEW OF CANCER BIOLOGY-SERIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cancerbio-060920-084910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
It is increasingly clear that the nectin family and its immunoreceptors shape the immune response to cancer through several pathways. Yet, even as antibodies against TIGIT, CD96, and CD112R advance into clinical development, biological and therapeutic questions remain unanswered. Here, we review recent progress, prospects, and challenges to understanding and tapping this family in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Johnston
- Oncology Discovery, Bristol Myers Squibb, Redwood City, California 94063, USA
| | - Peter S. Lee
- Discovery Biotherapeutics, Bristol Myers Squibb, Redwood City, California 94063, USA;,
| | - Pavel Strop
- Discovery Biotherapeutics, Bristol Myers Squibb, Redwood City, California 94063, USA;,
| | - Mark J. Smyth
- Immunology in Cancer and Infection Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland 4006, Australia
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7
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Zhang H, Yang Z, Du G, Cao L, Tan B. CD155-Prognostic and Immunotherapeutic Implications Based on Multiple Analyses of Databases Across 33 Human Cancers. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2021; 20:1533033820980088. [PMID: 33576304 PMCID: PMC7887689 DOI: 10.1177/1533033820980088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence has suggested that CD155 participates in the regulation of many biological processes ranging cell growth, invasion, and migration from regulation of immune responses in most malignances. However, the impact of prognostic value and CD115-related immune response on the survival in multiple cancers remains incompletely clear. In our study, we assessed the prognostic significance and immune-associated mechanism of CD155 based on data from multiple databases and methods, including UCSC Xena, Oncomine, PrognoScan. We identified that CD155 was commonly upregulated in most human cancers, and High expression of CD155 was closely correlated with unfavorable clinical outcomes in 10/33 of human cancers, while CD155 at low level was responsible for better survival in KICH and PAAD. More intriguingly, CD155 expression had a significant interaction with immune function in several tumors by analyzing Tumor mutational burden and microsatellite in stability, immune score and stromal score. The correlation between immune infiltration and CD155 expression also indicated that CD155 expression positively correlated with CD4+ T cells in Head and Neck squamous cell carcinoma, Lung adenocarcinoma and Colon adenocarcinoma, while had inversely interaction with CD8+ T in Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma and Head and Neck squamous cell carcinoma as well as Tregs in Skin Cutaneous Melanoma, Head and Neck squamous cell carcinoma and Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma. These findings indicate CD155 correlates with cancer immunotherapy function. In conclusions, our observations revealed CD155 might function as immune-associated system in the development of human cancers, and acted as a promising prognostic and therapeutic target against human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongpan Zhang
- Department of Oncology, 117913Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihao Yang
- BaoTou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, People's Republic of China
| | - Guobo Du
- Department of Oncology, 117913Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Cao
- Department of Oncology, 117913Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - BangXian Tan
- Department of Oncology, 117913Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
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8
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Papadogianni G, Ravens I, Dittrich-Breiholz O, Bernhardt G, Georgiev H. Impact of Aging on the Phenotype of Invariant Natural Killer T Cells in Mouse Thymus. Front Immunol 2020; 11:575764. [PMID: 33193368 PMCID: PMC7662090 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.575764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells represent a subclass of T cells possessing a restricted repertoire of T cell receptors enabling them to recognize lipid derived ligands. iNKT cells are continuously generated in thymus and differentiate into three main subpopulations: iNKT1, iNKT2, and iNKT17 cells. We investigated the transcriptomes of these subsets comparing cells isolated from young adult (6–10 weeks old) and aged BALB/c mice (25–30 weeks of age) in order to identify genes subject to an age-related regulation of expression. These time points were selected to take into consideration the consequences of thymic involution that radically alter the existing micro-milieu. Significant differences were detected in the expression of histone genes affecting all iNKT subsets. Also the proliferative capacity of iNKT cells decreased substantially upon aging. Several genes were identified as possible candidates causing significant age-dependent changes in iNKT cell generation and/or function such as genes coding for granzyme A, ZO-1, EZH2, SOX4, IGF1 receptor, FLT4, and CD25. Moreover, we provide evidence that IL2 differentially affects homeostasis of iNKT subsets with iNKT17 cells engaging a unique mechanism to respond to IL2 by initiating a slow rate of proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Inga Ravens
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Günter Bernhardt
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hristo Georgiev
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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9
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Abstract
Recent studies suggest that murine invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell development culminates in three terminally differentiated iNKT cell subsets denoted as NKT1, 2, and 17 cells. Although these studies corroborate the significance of the subset division model, less is known about the factors driving subset commitment in iNKT cell progenitors. In this review, we discuss the latest findings in iNKT cell development, focusing in particular on how T-cell receptor signal strength steers iNKT cell progenitors toward specific subsets and how early progenitor cells can be identified. In addition, we will discuss the essential factors for their sustenance and functionality. A picture is emerging wherein the majority of thymic iNKT cells are mature effector cells retained in the organ rather than developing precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Hogquist
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Hristo Georgiev
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
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10
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O'Donnell JS, Madore J, Li XY, Smyth MJ. Tumor intrinsic and extrinsic immune functions of CD155. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 65:189-196. [PMID: 31883911 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
CD155 (PVR/necl5/Tage4), a member of the nectin-like family of adhesion molecules, is highly upregulated on tumor cells across multiple cancer types and has been associated with worse patient outcomes. In addition to well described cell-intrinsic roles promoting tumor progression and metastasis, CD155 has now been implicated in immune regulation. The role of CD155 as a potent immune ligand with diverse cell-extrinsic functions is now being defined. CD155 signaling to immune cells is mediated through interactions with the co-stimulatory immune receptor CD226 (DNAM-1) and the inhibitory checkpoint receptors TIGIT and CD96, which are differentially regulated at the cell surface on T cells and NK cells. The integration of signals from CD155 cognate receptors modifies the activity of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in a context-dependent manner, making CD155 an attractive target for immune-oncology. Preclinical studies suggest that targeting this axis can improve immune-mediated tumor control, particularly when combined with existing anti-PD-1 checkpoint therapies. In this review, we discuss the roles of CD155 on host and tumor cells in controlling tumor progression and discuss the possibility of targeting CD155 for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake S O'Donnell
- Cancer Immunoregulation and Immunotherapy Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, QLD, Australia
| | - Jason Madore
- Immunology in Cancer and Infection Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Xian-Yang Li
- Immunology in Cancer and Infection Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Mark J Smyth
- Immunology in Cancer and Infection Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia.
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11
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Myeloid cells activate iNKT cells to produce IL-4 in the thymic medulla. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:22262-22268. [PMID: 31611396 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1910412116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is produced by a unique subset of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells (NKT2) in the thymus in the steady state, where it conditions CD8+ T cells to become "memory-like" among other effects. However, the signals that cause NKT2 cells to constitutively produce IL-4 remain poorly defined. Using histocytometry, we observed IL-4-producing NKT2 cells localized to the thymic medulla, suggesting that medullary signals might instruct NKT2 cells to produce IL-4. Moreover, NKT2 cells receive and require T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation for continuous IL-4 production in the steady state, since NKT2 cells lost IL-4 production when intrathymically transferred into CD1d-deficient recipients. In bone marrow chimeric recipients, only hematopoietic, not stromal, antigen-presenting cells (APCs), provided such stimulation. Furthermore, using different Cre-recombinase transgenic mouse strains to specifically target CD1d deficiency to various APCs, together with the use of diphtheria toxin receptor (DTR) transgenic mouse strains to deplete various APCs, we found that macrophages were the predominant cell to stimulate NKT2 IL-4 production. Thus, NKT2 cells appear to encounter and require different activating ligands for selection in the cortex and activation in the medulla.
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12
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White AJ, Lucas B, Jenkinson WE, Anderson G. Invariant NKT Cells and Control of the Thymus Medulla. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 200:3333-3339. [PMID: 29735644 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Most αβ T cells that form in the thymus are generated during mainstream conventional thymocyte development and involve the generation and selection of a diverse αβ TCR repertoire that recognizes self-peptide/MHC complexes. Additionally, the thymus also supports the production of T cell subsets that express αβ TCRs but display unique developmental and functional features distinct from conventional αβ T cells. These include multiple lineages of CD1d-restricted invariant NKT (iNKT) cells that express an invariant αβ TCR, branch off from mainstream thymocytes at the CD4+CD8+ stage, and are potent producers of polarizing cytokines. Importantly, and despite their differences, iNKT cells and conventional αβ T cells share common requirements for thymic epithelial microenvironments during their development. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that constitutive cytokine production by iNKT cells influences both conventional thymocyte development and the intrathymic formation of additional innate CD8+ αβ T cells with memory-like properties. In this article, we review evidence for an intrathymic innate lymphocyte network in which iNKT cells play key roles in multiple aspects of thymus function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea J White
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Lucas
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - William E Jenkinson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Graham Anderson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
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13
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Jaiswal AK, Sadasivam M, Archer NK, Miller RJ, Dillen CA, Ravipati A, Park PW, Chakravarti S, Miller LS, Hamad ARA. Syndecan-1 Regulates Psoriasiform Dermatitis by Controlling Homeostasis of IL-17-Producing γδ T Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 201:1651-1661. [PMID: 30045969 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
IL-17 is a potent proinflammatory cytokine that drives pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis. A major source of pathogenic IL-17 is a subset of γδ T cells (Tγδ17) that acquires the ability to produce IL-17 while developing in the thymus. The mechanisms that regulate homeostasis of Tγδ17 cells and their roles in psoriasis, however, are not fully understood. In this paper, we show that the heparan sulfate proteoglycan syndecan-1 (sdc1) plays a critical role in regulating homeostasis of Tγδ17 cells and modulating psoriasis-like skin inflammation in mice. sdc1 was predominantly expressed by Tγδ17 cells (but not IL-17- Tγδ cells) in the thymus, lymph nodes, and dermis. sdc1 deficiency significantly and selectively increased the frequency and absolute numbers of Tγδ17 cells by mechanisms that included increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis. Adoptive transfer experiments ruled out a significant role of sdc1 expressed on nonhematopoietic cells in halting expansion and proliferation of sdc1-deficient Tγδ17 cells. When subjected to imiquimod-induced psoriasiform dermatitis, Tγδ17 cells in sdc1KO mice displayed heightened responses accompanied by significantly increased skin inflammation than their wild-type counterparts. Furthermore, transferred sdc1-deficient γδ T cells caused more severe psoriasiform dermatitis than their sdc1-sufficient counterparts in TCR-βδ KO hosts. The results uncover a novel role for sdc1 in controlling homeostasis of Tγδ17 cells and moderating host responses to psoriasis-like inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Kumar Jaiswal
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Mohanraj Sadasivam
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Nathan K Archer
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Robert J Miller
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Carly A Dillen
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Advaitaa Ravipati
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Pyong Woo Park
- Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115; and
| | - Shukti Chakravarti
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Lloyd S Miller
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Abdel Rahim A Hamad
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205; .,Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
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14
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Shissler SC, Lee MS, Webb TJ. Mixed Signals: Co-Stimulation in Invariant Natural Killer T Cell-Mediated Cancer Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1447. [PMID: 29163518 PMCID: PMC5671952 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are an integral component of the immune system and play an important role in antitumor immunity. Upon activation, iNKT cells can directly kill malignant cells as well as rapidly produce cytokines that stimulate other immune cells, making them a front line defense against tumorigenesis. Unfortunately, iNKT cell number and activity are reduced in multiple cancer types. This anergy is often associated with upregulation of co-inhibitory markers such as programmed death-1. Similar to conventional T cells, iNKT cells are influenced by the conditions of their activation. Conventional T cells receive signals through the following three types of receptors: (1) T cell receptor (TCR), (2) co-stimulation molecules, and (3) cytokine receptors. Unlike conventional T cells, which recognize peptide antigen presented by MHC class I or II, the TCRs of iNKT cells recognize lipid antigen in the context of the antigen presentation molecule CD1d (Signal 1). Co-stimulatory molecules can positively and negatively influence iNKT cell activation and function and skew the immune response (Signal 2). This study will review the background of iNKT cells and their co-stimulatory requirements for general function and in antitumor immunity. We will explore the impact of monoclonal antibody administration for both blocking inhibitory pathways and engaging stimulatory pathways on iNKT cell-mediated antitumor immunity. This review will highlight the incorporation of co-stimulatory molecules in antitumor dendritic cell vaccine strategies. The use of co-stimulatory intracellular signaling domains in chimeric antigen receptor-iNKT therapy will be assessed. Finally, we will explore the influence of innate-like receptors and modification of immunosuppressive cytokines (Signal 3) on cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah C Shissler
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Michael S Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Tonya J Webb
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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15
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Jaiswal AK, Sadasivam M, Hamad ARA. Syndecan-1-coating of interleukin-17-producing natural killer T cells provides a specific method for their visualization and analysis. World J Diabetes 2017; 8:130-134. [PMID: 28465789 PMCID: PMC5394732 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v8.i4.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Revised: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T cells (NKT cells) are innate-like T cells that acquire effector functions while developing in the thymus, polarize into three distinct functional subsets viz. NKT1, NKT2 and NKT17 cells that produce interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-17, respectively. However, there has been no unique surface markers that define each subsets, forcing investigators to use intracellular staining of transcription factors and cytokines in combination of surface markers to distinguish among these subsets. Intracellular staining, however, causes apoptosis and prevents subsequent utilization of NKT cells in functional in vitro and in vivo assays that require viable cells. This limitation has significantly impeded understanding the specific properties of each subset and their interactions with each other. Therefore, there has been fervent efforts to find a specific markers for each NKT cell subset. We have recently identified that syndecan-1 (SDC-1; CD138) as a specific surface marker of NKT17 cells. This discovery now allows visualization of NKT17 in situ and study of their peripheral tissue distribution, characteristics of their TCR and viable sorting for in vitro and in vivo analysis. In addition, it lays the ground working for investigating significance of SDC-1 expression on this particular subset in regulating their roles in host defense and glucose metabolism.
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16
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Georgiev H, Ravens I, Benarafa C, Förster R, Bernhardt G. Distinct gene expression patterns correlate with developmental and functional traits of iNKT subsets. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13116. [PMID: 27721447 PMCID: PMC5062562 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells comprise a subpopulation of innate lymphocytes developing in thymus. A new model proposes subdividing murine iNKT cells into iNKT1, 2 and 17 cells. Here, we use transcriptome analyses of iNKT1, 2 and 17 subsets isolated from BALB/c and C57BL/6 thymi to identify candidate genes that may affect iNKT cell development, migration or function. We show that Fcɛr1γ is involved in generation of iNKT1 cells and that SerpinB1 modulates frequency of iNKT17 cells. Moreover, a considerable proportion of iNKT17 cells express IL-4 and IL-17 simultaneously. The results presented not only validate the usefulness of the iNKT1/2/17-concept but also provide new insights into iNKT cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hristo Georgiev
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Carl Neuberg Street 1, Hannover D-30625, Germany
| | - Inga Ravens
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Carl Neuberg Street 1, Hannover D-30625, Germany
| | - Charaf Benarafa
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, Freisestrasse 1, Bern CH-3012, Switzerland
| | - Reinhold Förster
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Carl Neuberg Street 1, Hannover D-30625, Germany
| | - Günter Bernhardt
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Carl Neuberg Street 1, Hannover D-30625, Germany
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17
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Blume J, Zur Lage S, Witzlau K, Georgiev H, Weiss S, Łyszkiewicz M, Ziȩtara N, Krueger A. Overexpression of Vα14Jα18 TCR promotes development of iNKT cells in the absence of miR-181a/b-1. Immunol Cell Biol 2016; 94:741-6. [PMID: 27089939 DOI: 10.1038/icb.2016.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Expression of microRNA miR-181a/b-1 is critical for intrathymic development of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells. However, the underlying mechanism has remained a matter of debate. On the one hand, growing evidence suggested that miR-181a/b-1 is instrumental in setting T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling threshold and thus permits agonist selection of iNKT cells through high-affinity TCR ligands. On the other hand, alterations in metabolic fitness mediated by miR-181a/b-1-dependent dysregulation of phosphatase and tensin homolog (Pten) have been proposed to cause the iNKT-cell defect in miR-181-a/b-1-deficient mice. To re-assess the hypothesis that modulation of TCR signal strength is the key mechanism by which miR-181a/b-1 controls the development of iNKT cells, we generated miR-181a/b-1-deficient mice expressing elevated levels of a Vα14Jα18 TCRα chain. In these mice, development of iNKT cells was fully restored. Furthermore, both subset distribution of iNKT cells as well as TCR Vβ repertoire were independent of the presence of miR-181a/b-1 once a Vα14Jα18 TCRα chain was overexpressed. Finally, levels of Pten protein were similar in Vα14Jα18 transgenic mice irrespective of their miR-181a/b-1 status. Collectively, our data support a model in which miR-181 promotes development of iNKT cells primarily by generating a permissive state for agonist selection with alterations in metabolic fitness possibly constituting a secondary effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Blume
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Susanne Zur Lage
- Molecular Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Katrin Witzlau
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hristo Georgiev
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Siegfried Weiss
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,Molecular Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | - Natalia Ziȩtara
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Krueger
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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