IL-35, a hallmark of immune-regulation in cancer progression, chronic infections and inflammatory diseases

Increased Peripheral Interleukin-35 Suppresses CD4+ T and CD8+ T-Cell Activity in Patients Living with Chronic Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Infection

Interleukin-35 (IL-35) has an immunosuppressive function through the regulation of immune cells during infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancers. The modulatory role of IL-35 in T lymphocytes, which are involved in host immune responses during human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection, has not been elucidated. The aim of the current study was to investigate the role of regulatory function of IL-35 to T-cell activity in patients living with chronic HIV-1 infection. Sixty-seven patients living with chronic HIV-1 infection and 17 controls were enrolled in the study. IL-35 levels were measured via an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Purified CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were stimulated with recombinant human IL-35. The secretion of cytokines and cytotoxic molecules, the mRNA levels of IL-35 receptor subunits and transcription factors, the expression of immune checkpoint molecules, and cell proliferation were assessed to evaluate the effect of IL-35 on T lymphocyte function in vitro. Compared with controls, patients living with chronic HIV-1 infection presented increased plasma IL-35 levels. IL-35 stimulation did not affect either the expression of IL-35 receptor subunits or the proliferation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from either patients living with chronic HIV-1 infection or controls. IL-35 stimulation downregulated transcription factor mRNA expression and cytokine secretion by CD4+ T cells as well as cytotoxic molecule production by CD8+ T cells from both patients living with chronic HIV-1 infection and controls. This process was accompanied by increased expression of immune checkpoint molecules on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. The addition of IL-35 also reduced perforin and granzyme B secretion by HIV-1-specific CD8+ T cells from patients living with chronic HIV-1 infection. Increased plasma IL-35 in patients living with chronic HIV-1 infection might dampen the activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, leading to T-cell exhaustion.

Regulatory T Cell- and Natural Killer Cell-Mediated Inflammation, Cerebral Vasospasm, and Delayed Cerebral Ischemia in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Approach

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) involves a significant influx of blood into the cerebrospinal fluid, representing a severe form of stroke. Despite advancements in aneurysm closure and neuro-intensive care, outcomes remain impaired due to cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). Previous pharmacological therapies have not successfully reduced DCI while improving overall outcomes. As a result, significant efforts are underway to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved. This review focuses on the activation and effects of immune cells after SAH and their interactions with neurotoxic and vasoactive substances as well as inflammatory mediators. Particular attention is given to clinical studies highlighting the roles of natural killer (NK) cells and regulatory T cells (Treg) cells. Alongside microglia, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes, NK cells and Treg cells are key contributors to the inflammatory cascade following SAH. Their involvement in modulating the neuro-inflammatory response, vasospasm, and DCI underscores their potential as therapeutic targets and prognostic markers in the post-SAH recovery process. We conducted a systematic review on T cell- and natural killer cell-mediated inflammation and their roles in cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate outcomes and mortality in studies focused on NK cell- and T cell-mediated mechanisms.

FOXP3, IL-35, and PD-L1 in intra- and peritumoral lymphocytic infiltrate of cutaneous melanomas as an important part of antitumor immunity

BACKGROUND

The tumor microenvironment is a significant mediator enabling tumor growth and progression. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are an important component of this but tumor cells develop mechanisms by which they can escape the action of the immune system. Immunosuppressive mechanisms cooperate with each other and involve cells of the immune system, the tumor microenvironment itself, chemokines and cytokines. In this study, we examined the FOXP3+, IL-35+, and PD-L1+ lymphocytes in tumor tissues as they are contributing to immunosuppression in some tumors, including melanoma. Such cells are also associated with tumor progression, early metastasis, and prognosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this study, 95 cutaneous melanomas and 25 melanocytic nevi as a control group were examined by immunohistochemistry for FOXP3+, IL-35+, and PD-L1+ lymphocytes. Melanomas were divided into four groups according to the TNM classification: pT1 (35), pT2 (21), pT3 (21), and pT4 (18). PD-L1+ lymphocytes were enriched in pT3- and pT4-stage melanomas, especially in the periphery of the lesions (P<0.001). The number of FOXP3+ lymphocytes was positively correlated with the stage of the disease, especially in the center of the tumors (P<0.001). Likewise, IL-35+ lymphocytes (P<0.001) were enriched with the stage of the tumor.

CONCLUSION

This article demonstrates that the immunosuppressive environment develops in proportion to the stage of the melanoma. The most significant changes are found at the tumor periphery, confirming the heterogeneity of the tumor stroma which is more pronounced in more advanced tumors and which may contribute to the greater aggressiveness in these peripheral zones.

Role of Regulatory T Cells in Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a common cerebrovascular disease that can lead to severe neurological dysfunction in surviving patients, resulting in a heavy burden on patients and their families. When ICH occurs, the blood‒brain barrier is disrupted, thereby promoting immune cell migration into damaged brain tissue. As important immunosuppressive T cells, regulatory T (Treg) cells are involved in the maintenance of immune homeostasis and the suppression of immune responses after ICH. Treg cells mitigate brain tissue damage after ICH in a variety of ways, such as inhibiting the neuroinflammatory response, protecting against blood‒brain barrier damage, reducing oxidative stress damage and promoting nerve repair. In this review, we discuss the changes in Treg cells in ICH clinical patients and experimental animals, the mechanisms by which Treg cells regulate ICH and treatments targeting Treg cells in ICH, aiming to support new therapeutic strategies for clinical treatment.

Plasma Interleukin-35 Levels Predict the Prognosis in Patients with HBV-Related Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure

This study aimed to investigate the impact of IL-35 on the prognosis of patients with HBV-ACLF. We recruited 69 patients with HBV-ACLF, 20 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), 17 patients with liver cirrhosis (LC), and 20 healthy controls (HCs) from a regional infectious disease treatment center in China. Plasma levels of IL-35 at baseline were detected using ELISA. Plasma IL-35 levels in the HBV-ACLF group were the highest among all four groups. Furthermore, survivors exhibited significantly higher IL-35 levels than non-survivors (p < 0.001). IL-35 levels correlated with MELD (r = -0.678, p < 0.001), COSSH-ACLF IIs (r = -0.581, p < 0.001), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) (r = 0.433, p < 0.001), creatinine (Cr) (r =-0.396, p = 0.001), and lactate (r =-0.38, p =0.001). The combination of plasma IL-35 and MELD score had the highest mortality prediction efficiency, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.895 (95% CI: 0.812-0.978, p < 0.001), a sensitivity of 80.6%, and a specificity of 93.9%. Additionally, the Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that lower levels of IL-35 (≤191.5pg/mL) were associated with poorer survival rates in HBV-ACLF patients (p < 0.001). Our results demonstrated that IL-35 could be an effective predictive marker for the prognosis of HBV-ACLF and improve the predictive performance when combined with the MELD score.

Estimation of the tissue and serum levels of IL-35 in Mycosis fungoides: a case-control study

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) with its etiology not yet fully understood. Interleukin (IL)-35 is an inhibitory cytokine that belongs to the IL-12 family. Elevated IL-35 in the plasma and the tumor microenvironment increases tumorigenesis and indicates poor prognosis in different types of malignancies. The objective of this study is to estimate the expression levels of IL-35 in tissue and serum of MF patients versus healthy controls. This case-control study included 35 patients with patch, plaque, and tumor MF as well as 30 healthy controls. Patients were fully assessed, and serum samples and lesional skin biopsies were taken prior to starting treatment. The IL-35 levels were measured in both serum and tissue biopsies by ELISA technique. Both tissue and serum IL-35 levels were significantly higher in MF patients than in controls (P < 0.001) and tissue IL-35 was significantly higher than serum IL-35 in MF patients (P < 0.001). Tissue IL-35 was significantly higher in female patients and patients with recurrent MF compared to male patients and those without recurrent disease (P < 0.001). Since both tissue and serum IL-35 levels are increased in MF, IL-35 is suggested to have a possible role in MF pathogenesis. IL-35 can be a useful diagnostic marker for MF. Tissue IL-35 can also be an indicator of disease recurrence.

Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics reveal alterations in trophoblasts at invasion sites and disturbed myometrial immune microenvironment in placenta accreta spectrum disorders

BACKGROUND

Placenta accreta spectrum disorders (PAS) are a severe complication characterized by abnormal trophoblast invasion into the myometrium. The underlying mechanisms of PAS involve a complex interplay of various cell types and molecular pathways. Despite its significance, both the characteristics and intricate mechanisms of this condition remain poorly understood.

METHODS

Spatial transcriptomics (ST) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), were performed on the tissue samples from four PAS patients, including invasive tissues (ST, n = 3; scRNA-seq, n = 4), non-invasive normal placenta samples (ST, n = 1; scRNA-seq, n = 2). Three healthy term pregnant women provided normal myometrium samples (ST, n = 1; scRNA-seq, n = 2). ST analysis characterized the spatial expression landscape, and scRNA-seq was used to identify specific cellular components in PAS. Immunofluorescence staining was conducted to validate the findings.

RESULTS

ST slices distinctly showed the myometrium in PAS was invaded by three subpopulations of trophoblast cells, extravillous trophoblast cells, cytotrophoblasts, and syncytiotrophoblasts, especially extravillous trophoblast cells. The pathways enriched by genes in trophoblasts, smooth muscle cells (SMC), and immune cells of PAS were mainly associated with immune and inflammation. We identified elevated expression of the angiogenesis-stimulating gene PTK2, alongside the cell proliferation-enhancing gene EGFR, within the trophoblasts of PAS group. Trophoblasts mainly contributed the enhancement of HLA-G and EBI3 signaling, which is crucial in establishing immune escape. Meanwhile, SMC regions in PAS exhibited upregulation of immunomodulatory markers such as CD274, HAVCR2, and IDO1, with CD274 expression experimentally verified to be increased in the invasive SMC areas of the PAS group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided information of cellular composition and spatial organization in PAS at single-cell and spatial level. The dysregulated expression of genes in PAS revealed a complex interplay between enhanced immune escape in trophoblasts and immune tolerance in SMCs during invasion in PAS. These findings will enhance our understanding of PAS pathogenesis for developing potential therapeutic strategies.

Effects of smoking on the salivary and GCF levels of IL-17 and IL-35 in periodontitis

Periodontitis progression is associated with a host response in which anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokine networks play a key role. Smoking is involved in the production of various mediators. The study aims to evaluate the levels of IL-17 and IL-35 in saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), to investigate the effects of smoking on these cytokines in smoker and non-smoker periodontitis patients. 19 smokers with periodontitis, 20 non-smokers with periodontitis, and 18 periodontally healthy subjects were included in the study. Periodontal clinical indexes were recorded and the levels of IL-17 and IL-35 in saliva and GCF were analyzed. No significant difference was detected among the groups in terms of salivary IL-17 and IL-35 levels. GCF IL-17 and IL-35 concentration levels in the non-smoker periodontitis group were significantly lower than the others (p < 0.05). Total levels of GCF IL-17 were significantly higher in both periodontitis groups than the control group; and total levels of GCF IL-35 were significantly higher in non-smoker periodontitis group than the others (p < 0.05). A positive correlation was detected between the salivary IL-17 and IL-35 levels (r = 0.884), GCF IL-17 and IL-35 concentrations (r = 0.854), and total GCF IL-17 and IL-35 (r = 0.973) levels (p < 0.01). The present study revealed a positive correlation between the IL-35 and IL-17 levels both in saliva and GCF. IL-17 and IL-35 can be considered as one of the cytokines that play a role in periodontal health and periodontitis; and smoking may be among the factors that affect the levels of these cytokines in GCF and saliva.

Decreased Expression of IL-35 and Its Receptor Contributes to Impaired Megakaryopoiesis in the Pathogenesis of Immune Thrombocytopenia

Recent findings have shown that the level of interleukin-35 (IL-35) is abnormal in several autoimmune diseases. Nonetheless, whether IL-35 participates in the pathogenesis of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) remains unclear. The current study investigates whether IL-35 modulates megakaryopoiesis. The results show that IL-35 receptors are progressively expressed on bone marrow megakaryocytes during the in vitro differentiation of CD34+ progenitors. IL-35 increases the number of megakaryocyte colony-forming units through the Akt pathway. The level of bone marrow IL-35 is reduced in ITP patients, and the decreased level of IL-35 may inhibit megakaryopoiesis. Then, the potential causes of decreased IL-35 in ITP patients are explored. The primary type of cell that secretes IL-35, known as IL-35-producing regulatory T cells (iTr35), is reduced in ITP patients. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from ITP patients exhibit an impaired capability of inducing iTr35 due to enhanced apoptosis, which may contribute to the reduced level of bone marrow IL-35 in ITP patients. Iguratimod promotes megakaryocyte development and differentiation by elevating the expression of IL-35 receptors on megakaryocytes. Iguratimod improves response rates and reduces bleeding symptoms in corticosteroid-resistant ITP patients.

Interplay of IL-33 and IL-35 Modulates Th2/Th17 Responses in Cigarette Smoke Exposure HDM-Induced Asthma

Cigarette smoke (CS) facilitates adverse effects on the airway inflammation and treatment of asthma. Here, we investigated the mechanisms by which CS exacerbates asthma. The roles of IL-33 and IL-35 in asthma development were examined by treatment with IL-33 knockout (IL-33 KO) or transfection of adenovirus encoding IL-35 (Ad-IL-35) in a murine model of cigarette smoke-exposure asthma. Furthermore, the involvement of IL-33 and IL-35 in regulating DCs and Th2/Th17 cells was examined in a coculture system of DCs with CD4+ T cells. Additionally, we observed the effect of CpG-ODNs on the balance of IL-33 and IL-35. We show that CS and house dust mite (HDM) exposure induced IL-33 and suppressed IL-35 levels in cigarette smoke-exposure asthma in vivo and in vitro. Treatment with IL-33 KO or Ad-IL-35 significantly attenuated airway hyperreactivity, goblet hyperplasia, airway remodelling, and eosinophil and neutrophil infiltration in the lung tissues from asthmatic mice. Furthermore, we demonstrated reciprocal regulation between CS and HDM-modulated IL-33 and IL-35. Mechanistically, IL-33 KO (or anti-ST2) and Ad-IL-35 attenuated Th2- and Th17-associated inflammation by downregulating TSLP-DC signalling. Finally, administration of CpG-ODNs suppressed the expression of IL-33/ST2 and elevated the levels of IL-35, which is mainly derived from CD4+Foxp+ Tregs, to alleviate Th2- and Th17-associated inflammation by inhibiting the activation of BMDCs. Taken together, the IL-33/ST2 pathway drives the DC-Th2 and Th17 responses of cigarette smoke-exposure asthma, while IL-35 has the opposite effect. CpG-ODNs represent a potential therapeutic strategy for modulating the balance of IL-33 and IL-35 to suppress allergic airway inflammation.

IL-35: New Target for Immunotherapy Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment

Interleukin 35(IL-35) is a newly discovered inhibitory cytokine of the IL12 family. More recently, IL-35 was found to be increased in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and peripheral blood of many patients with cancer, indicating that it plays an important role in the TME. Tumors secrete cytokines that recruit myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (Treg) into the TME to promote malignant progression, which is a great challenge for cancer treatment. Radiotherapy causes serious adverse effects, and tumor resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors is still an unsolved challenge. Thus, new cancer therapy approaches are urgently needed. Numerous studies have shown that IL-35 can recruit immunosuppressive cells to enable tumor immune escape by promoting the conversion of immune cells into a tumor growth-promoting phenotype as well as facilitating tumor angiogenesis. IL-35-neutralizing antibodies were found to boost the chemotherapeutic effect of gemcitabine and considerably reduce the microvascular density of pancreatic cancer in mice. Therefore, targeting IL-35 in the TME provides a promising cancer treatment target. In addition, IL-35 may be used as an independent prognostic factor for some tumors in the near future. This review intends to reveal the interplay of IL-35 with immune cells in the TME, which may provide new options for the treatment of cancer.

Age-Dependent Effect of Calcitriol on Mouse Regulatory T and B Lymphocytes

The hormonally active vitamin D3 metabolite, calcitriol, functions as an important modulator of the immune system. We assumed that calcitriol exerts different effects on immune cells and cytokine production, depending on the age of the animal; therefore, we analyzed its effects on regulatory T lymphocytes and regulatory B lymphocytes in healthy young and old female C57Bl/6/Foxp3GFP mice. In the lymph nodes of young mice, calcitriol decreased the percentage of Tregs, including tTregs and pTregs, and the expression of GITR, CD103, and CD101; however, calcitriol increased the level of IL-35 in adipose tissue. In the case of aged mice, calcitriol decreased the percentages of tTregs and CD19+ cells in lymph nodes and the level of osteopontin in the plasma. Additionally, increases in the levels of IgG and the lowest levels of IFN-γ, IL-10, and IL-35 were observed in the adipose tissue of aged mice. This study showed that calcitriol treatment had different effects, mainly on Treg phenotypes and cytokine secretion, in young and old female mice; it seemed that calcitriol enhanced the immunosuppressive properties of the lymphatic organs and adipose tissue of healthy young mice but not of healthy aged mice, where the opposite effects were observed.

Glucose transporter 1 deficiency, AMP-activated protein kinase activation and immune dysregulation in autism spectrum disorder: Novel biomarker sources for clinical diagnosis

The neurophysiological basis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is still uncertain. Nevertheless, studies support the hypotheses that oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, immune dysregulation, and metabolic stress are contributors. In this study, the serum levels of 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT), hypoxia-inducible factor 1 α (HIF-1 α), heat shock protein 70 (HSP-70), interleukin-17A (IL-17A), IL-35, vitamin D3 (VITD), glucose transporter-1 (GUT1), and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) were estimated in Saudi ASD children versus age-matched neurotypical controls, aiming to investigate whether these parameters have potential roles in the pathophysiologic mechanisms of ASD and hoping to find a reliable marker for early ASD diagnosis. This study included 25 ASD children and 25 typically developing children (3-11 years old). The diagnosis of ASD cases was made based on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). ASD subjects were commonly male and revealed an intelligence quotient (IQ) < 70.The results detected that ASD children have remarkable greater serum levels of nitrosative stress (3-NT), hypoxia (HIF-1 α), inflammatory (HSP-70, IL-17A, and AMPK) biomarkers and lower serum levels of anti-inflammatory (IL-35 and VITD) and metabolic stress (GUT-1) biomarkers versus age-matched controls (P ≤ 0.0001). Pearson's correlation study revealed that 3-NT was positively associated with HIF-1 α and HSP-70. HIF-1 α was also positively correlated with HSP-70. AMPK was positively associated with GUT-1, however, IL-17A was negatively correlated with IL-35 and VITD.Limitation:No specific therapeuticdrugs were administered in this study, and further studies are required to confirm the role of the selected biomarkers in ASD managements.

Conclusion

Changes in concentrations of different biomarkers indicate that they are involved in oxidative stress, metabolic stress, immune dysregulation and ASD pathogenesis. Hence, these parameters can prove to be promising biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets for the timely diagnosis and treatment of ASD patients.

The role of iTr35 cells in the inflammatory response and fibrosis progression of systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of induced immunosuppressive T regulatory (iTr) 35 cells in SSc-related inflammation and fibrosis.

METHODS

Sixty-eight SSc patients were enrolled in this study. Subsets of iTr35 and Tr1 were measured by flow cytometry. IL-35 and IL-10 levels were measured using ELISA. Expressions of iTr35, Tr1, fibrosis-related genes and proteins associated with signalling pathways were determined using immunofluorescence, western blot and immunohistochemistry assays.

RESULTS

In peripheral blood, the proportions of the iTr35 cells were higher and Tr1 cells were lower than the control group. Similarly, IL-35 expression was increased, while IL-10 levels were decreased. In fibroblasts from skin tissue, the expression levels of EBI3, IL-12Ap35, Foxp3 and IL-10 were decreased, but collagen I, TGF-β, alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin levels were increased. Phosphorylated STAT3/6 were increased, but iTr35 and Tr1 cell levels were significantly decreased. When CD4+ cells were incubated with both recombinant human (rh)IL-35 and rhIL-10, the cell numbers of iTr35 and Tr1 were greater than the same type of cells treated with rhIL-35 or rhIL-10 alone. However, the viability of conventional CD4+ T cells was decreased by gradually increasing iTr35 cells. Moreover, iTr35 cells affected α-SMA expression through the STAT3/6 signalling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Both iTr35 and Tr1 cells are involved in SSc-related inflammation and fibrosis. IL-35 can induce iTr35 cells, showing a synergistic effect with IL-10. We also found that iTr35 cells can inhibit T cell proliferation and differentiation via the STAT3/6 signalling pathway, thereby causing fibrosis.

Role of interleukins in acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy with strong heterogeneity. Immune disorders are a feature of various malignancies, including AML. Interleukins (ILs) and other cytokines participate in a series of biological processes of immune disorders in the microenvironment, and serve as a bridge for communication between various cellular components in the immune system. The role of ILs in AML is complex and pleiotropic. It can not only play an anti-AML role by enhancing anti-leukemia immunity and directly inducing AML cell apoptosis, but also promote the growth, proliferation and drug resistance of AML. These properties of ILs can be used to explore their potential efficacy in disease monitoring, prognosis assessment, and development of new treatment strategies for AML. This review aims to clarify some of the complex roles of ILs in AML and their clinical applications.

Interleukin-35 Enhances Regulatory T Cell Function by Potentially Suppressing Their Transdifferentiation into a T Helper 17-Like Phenotype in Kawasaki Disease

Interleukin-35 (IL-35) modulates immune cell activity in inflammation and autoimmune disorders. However, its specific effects on regulatory T cells (Tregs) in Kawasaki disease remain ambiguous. We enrolled 37 patients with Kawasaki disease and 20 healthy controls in this study. The percentages of CD4⁺CD25⁺CD127^dim/- Tregs and CD4⁺IL-17A⁺ T helper 17 (Th17) cells were determined via flow cytometry. Tregs were enriched and stimulated by recombinant IL-35. Immunosuppressive activity of Tregs was via co-culture with autologous CD4⁺CD25^- T cells. Purified Tregs were cultured for Th17 polarization, and the influence of IL-35 on Tregs transdifferentiation into a Th17-like phenotype was determined. The percentage of Tregs was elevated in patients with Kawasaki disease and positively correlated with C-reactive protein levels. There was no significant difference in the percentage of Th17 cells between the two groups. IL-35 stimulation increased the percentage of Tregs in both groups, but decreased the percentage of Tregs Th17 cells in affected patients. IL-35 enhanced the immunosuppressive activity of Tregs in both groups, resulting in decreased cellular proliferation and increased IL-35 subunit mRNA relative levels in co-culture system. IL-35 did not affect the immune checkpoint molecule expression in Tregs, but inhibited the transdifferentiation of Tregs into a Th17-like phenotype in affected patients, indicating by the down-regulations of C-C motif chemokine receptor-4/6 expression, retinoid-related orphan nuclear receptor γt mRNA levels, and IL-17 secretion. IL-35 contributes to the immunosuppressive function of Tregs by inhibiting the cellular proliferation and transdifferentiation of Tregs into a Th17-like phenotype, which may be a protective mechanism against Kawasaki disease.

JNK/c-Jun pathway activation is essential for HBx-induced IL-35 elevation to promote persistent HBV infection

BACKGROUND

Immunoregulation plays pivotal roles during chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Studies have shown that Interleukin (IL)-35 is an important molecule associated with inadequate immune response against HBV. However, the mechanisms involved in the up-regulation of IL-35 expression during persistent HBV infection remain unknown.

METHODS

In this study, we constructed a plasmid expressing the HBV X protein (pCMV-HBx) to evaluate the relationship between HBx and IL-35. Activation of the JNK/c-Jun pathway was analyzed and chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing and luciferase reporter assays were performed to determine whether c-Jun could regulate IL-35 transcription.

RESULTS

HBx can significantly activate IL-35 promoter in both LO2 and HepG2 cells compared to the control plasmid (pCMV-Tag2) using the dual-luciferase assay. Whereas other viral proteins, such as S, preS1, the core protein, had no significant effect on IL-35 expression. Similarly, WB and qRT-PCR also showed that HBx can significantly promote IL-35 expression at protein and mRNA levels in the aforementioned cells. The relevant pathway mechanism showed that the expression of JNK and c-Jun genes was significantly higher in transfected cells carrying pCMV-HBx than in the pCMV-Tag2-transfected and -untransfected cells. WB analysis revealed that phosphorylated JNK and c-Jun were overexpressed after HBx action. Conversely, the addition of the JNK/c-Jun signaling pathway inhibitor could significantly suppress HBx-induced IL-35 expression in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

A novel molecular mechanism of HBV-induced IL-35 expression was revealed, which involves JNK/c-Jun signaling in up-regulating IL-35 expression via HBx, resulting in transactivation of the IL-35 subunit EBI3 and p35 promoter.

The Cytokine Network in Colorectal Cancer: Implications for New Treatment Strategies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequent tumor entities worldwide with only limited therapeutic options. CRC is not only a genetic disease with several mutations in specific oncogenes and/or tumor suppressor genes such as APC, KRAS, PIC3CA, BRAF, SMAD4 or TP53 but also a multifactorial disease including environmental factors. Cancer cells communicate with their environment mostly via soluble factors such as cytokines, chemokines or growth factors to generate a favorable tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME, a heterogeneous population of differentiated and progenitor cells, plays a critical role in regulating tumor development, growth, invasion, metastasis and therapy resistance. In this context, cytokines from cancer cells and cells of the TME influence each other, eliciting an inflammatory milieu that can either enhance or suppress tumor growth and metastasis. Additionally, several lines of evidence exist that the composition of the microbiota regulates inflammatory processes, controlled by cytokine secretion, that play a role in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. In this review, we discuss the cytokine networks between cancer cells and the TME and microbiome in colorectal cancer and the related treatment strategies, with the goal to discuss cytokine-mediated strategies that could overcome the common therapeutic resistance of CRC tumors.

CD19+CD24highCD27+ B cell and interleukin 35 as potential biomarkers of disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus patients

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease that associates with aberrant activation of B lymphocytes and excessive autoantibodies. Interleukin 10 (IL-10)/interleukin 35 (IL-35) and IL-10/IL-35-producing regulatory B cells have been demonstrated to possess immunosuppressive functions during systemic lupus erythematosus. Here, we detected the proportion of CD19⁺CD24^highCD27⁺ B cells as well as IL-10 and IL-35 levels in peripheral blood of SLE patients and healthy individuals, and investigated their relations with clinical features of SLE.

METHODS

41 SLE patients and 25 healthy controls were recruited. The patients were divided into groups based on SLEDAI score, anti-dsDNA antibody, rash, nephritis and hematological disorder. Flow cytometry was used to detect the proportion of CD24^hiCD27⁺ B cells. ELISA was used to detect serum levels of IL-10 and IL-35.

RESULTS

Our results showed that the CD19⁺CD24^highCD27⁺ B population was decreased in active SLE patients, and anti-correlated with the disease activity. Of note, we found significant increase of IL-10 and decrease of IL-35 in SLE patients with disease activity score > 4, lupus nephritis or hematological disorders compared to those without related clinical features.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced CD19⁺CD24^highCD27⁺ B cells expression may be involved in the pathogenesis of SLE. Moreover, we supposed that IL-35 instead of IL-10 played a crucial role in immune regulation during SLE disease.

Interleukin-35 has a Protective Role in Infectious Mononucleosis-Induced Liver Inflammation Probably by Inhibiting CD8+ T Cell Function

Interleukin (IL)-35 plays an immunosuppressive role in infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancers. However, IL-35 expression and its regulation of CD8⁺ T cells in infectious mononucleosis (IM) are not fully understood. In this study, three groups of participants were compared, including twenty-three patients of IM without liver inflammation, twenty-eight patients of IM with liver inflammation, and twenty-one controls. Plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated. CD8⁺ T cells were purified. Plasma IL-35 was measured by ELISA. PBMCs and CD8⁺ T cells were stimulated with recombinant human IL-35 in vitro. Perforin and granzyme B secretion was assessed by ELISPOT. Immune checkpoint molecule expression was investigated by flow cytometry. CD8⁺ T cells were co-cultured with HepG2 cells in direct contact and indirect contact manner. The cytotoxicity of CD8⁺ T cells was calculated by measuring lactate dehydrogenase release and proinflammatory cytokine expression. There was no significant difference in plasma IL-35 levels between patients with IM without liver inflammation and the controls, but the IL-35 level was notably increased in patients with IM who presented with liver inflammation and negatively correlated with aminotransferase. CD8⁺ T cells in patients with IM with liver inflammation showed stronger cytotoxicity. IL-35 stimulation inhibited CD8⁺ T cell-induced target cell death in patients with IM, mainly through suppression of IFN-γ/TNF-α secretion and elevation of immune checkpoint molecule expression, but did not affect perforin or granzyme B secretion. The current data indicated that IL-35 dampened the cytotoxicity of CD8⁺ T cells in patients with IM probably via repression of cytokine secretion. Elevated IL-35 may protect against CD8⁺ T cell-induced liver inflammation in patients with IM.

Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium augments the therapeutic effect of 5-Aminosalicylic Acid in DSS colitis model; the role of IL-35 expression

Ulcerative colitis (UC) primarily affects the mucosa of the distal colon. Dysregulated immune response in genetically-prone persons is claimed to be responsible for chronic intestinal inflammation. This study aimed to explore the efficacy and the hematological effects of pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis model. Forty C57BL/6 female mice were equally divided into five groups: control group, DSS-colitis group, DSS-colitis treated with 5-aminosalicylic acid, DSS-colitis treated with PPS, and DSS-colitis treated with both drugs. Disease activity index (DAI) and colon length were calculated. Colonic IL-6 and IL-35 levels were assayed by ELISA. IL-35 gene expression was evaluated by qRT-PCR. Colon tissue samples were examined by H&E stain and immunohistochemistry (IHC) of Ki67. The colitis group subjected to combined treatment showed the best outcome with significant improvement of DAI and increased colon length. Colonic IL-6 was significantly lower in both PPS- and combination-treated groups accompanied by a significantly higher IL-35 level and its EBI3 subunit mRNA expression. However, the PPS-treated colitis group showed higher gene expression of IL-35 EBI3 subunit by 1.5-fold compared with the combined group. The colon mucosa and crypts were significantly preserved in mice treated with both drugs with the best Ki67 positive cell density. PPS is a safe and promising drug in the treatment of UC as it exerted the best positive effect on the anti-inflammatory IL-35 level and gene expression. However, superior improvement of DAI was seen when PPS was added to ASA with a greater mucosal proliferation and repair.

(Im)maturity in Tumor Ecosystem

Tumors have special features that make them distinct from their normal counterparts. Immature cells in a tumor mass and their critical contributions to the tumorigenesis will open new windows toward cancer therapy. Incomplete cellular development brings versatile and unique functionality in the cellular tumor ecosystem, such as what is seen for highly potential embryonic cells. There is evidence that maturation of certain types of cells in this ecosystem can recover the sensitivity of the tumor. Therefore, understanding more about the mechanisms that contributed to this immaturity will render new therapeutic approaches in cancer therapy. Targeting such mechanisms can be exploited as a supplementary to the current immunotherapeutic treatment schedules, such as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. The key focus of this review is to discuss the impact of (im)maturity in cellular tumor ecosystems on cancer progression, focusing mainly on immaturity in the immune cell compartment of the tumor, as well as on the stemness of tumor cells.

Curcumin Promotes the Expression of IL-35 by Regulating Regulatory T Cell Differentiation and Restrains Uncontrolled Inflammation and Lung Injury in Mice

Interleukin (IL)-35, which has an anti-inflammatory role in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)/acute lung injury (ALI), is relatively promising as a drug target. Studies have shown that curcumin may play a therapeutic role in ALI and enhance the suppressive function of regulatory T cells (Tregs). To illustrate the effect of curcumin on the regulation of Treg cell differentiation and expression of IL-35, we built a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced acute lung injury mouse mode with curcumin pretreatment. The expression of IL-35 in serum, severity of lung injury, IL-17A in lung tissue, survival rate, Treg-related cytokines levels in serum, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)'s nuclear translocation in lung tissue, and splenic CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs were assessed. Furthermore, the proportion of Tregs, STAT5, and IL-35 expression during naïve CD4+ T cell differentiation in vitro was measured. Compared with the CLP group, the increased IL-35 expression in CLP with the curcumin pretreatment (CLP + Cur) group was consistent with the decreased severity of lung injury, IL-17A protein levels in lung tissue, and Treg-related cytokines levels. Pretreatment with curcumin, the survival rate climbed to 50%, while the mortality rate was 100% in the CLP group. In addition, splenic CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells increased in the CLP + Cur group. In vitro, CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells from naïve CD4+ T cells, STAT5 proportion, and IL-35 expression increased after curcumin treatment. These findings showed that curcumin might regulate IL-35 by activating the differentiation of Treg cells to control the inflammation in acute lung injury.

IL-35 Regulates the Function of Immune Cells in Tumor Microenvironment

Interleukin-35 (IL-35) is a heterodimeric cytokine composed of Epstein-Barr virus-induced gene 3 (EBI3) and IL-12p35 that has recently been shown to play diverse and important roles in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Owing to its immunosuppressive activity and ability to promote tumor growth and progression, IL-35 is widely recognized as a key mediator of TME status. Immune cells are key mediators of diverse tumor-related phenotypes, and immunosuppressive cytokines such as IL-35 can promote tumor growth and metastasis in TME. These influences should be considered together. Since tumor immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint blockade remains ineffective in many patients due to tumoral resistance, a new target or efficacy enhancing factor is urgently needed. Suppressing IL-35 production and activity has been demonstrated as an effective factor that inhibits tumor cells viability, and further investigation of this cytokine is warranted. However, the mechanistic basis for IL-35-mediated regulation of immune cells in the TME remains to be fully clarified. In the present review, we explore the roles of IL-35 in regulating immune cells within the TME. In addition, we highlight IL-35 as a specific immunological target and discuss its possible relevance in the context of immunotherapy. Lastly, we sought to summarize potential future research directions that may guide the advancement of current understanding regarding the role of this important cytokine as a regulator of oncogenesis.

Epigenetic DNA Methylation of EBI3 Modulates Human Interleukin-35 Formation via NFkB Signaling: A Promising Therapeutic Option in Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a severe chronic disease with unclear etiology that is associated with increased risk for colorectal cancer, is accompanied by dysregulation of cytokines. Epstein–Barr virus-induced gene 3 (EBI3) encodes a subunit in the unique heterodimeric IL-12 cytokine family of either pro- or anti-inflammatory function. After having recently demonstrated that upregulation of EBI3 by histone acetylation alleviates disease symptoms in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-treated mouse model of chronic colitis, we now aimed to examine a possible further epigenetic regulation of EBI3 by DNA methylation under inflammatory conditions. Treatment with the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor (DNMTi) decitabine (DAC) and TNFα led to synergistic upregulation of EBI3 in human colon epithelial cells (HCEC). Use of different signaling pathway inhibitors indicated NFκB signaling was necessary and proportional to the synergistic EBI3 induction. MALDI-TOF/MS and HPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis of DAC/TNFα-treated HCEC identified IL-12p35 as the most probable binding partner to form a functional protein. EBI3/IL-12p35 heterodimers (IL-35) induce their own gene upregulation, something that was indeed observed in HCEC cultured with media from previously DAC/TNFα-treated HCEC. These results suggest that under inflammatory and demethylating conditions the upregulation of EBI3 results in the formation of anti-inflammatory IL-35, which might be considered as a therapeutic target in colitis.

Pathogenesis and Function of Interleukin-35 in Rheumatoid Arthritis

It is well known that RA (Rheumatoid arthritis) is an autoimmune disease characterized by multiple and symmetric arthropathy. The main pathological features of RA are synovial hyperplasia, angiogenesis, pannus formation, inflammatory cell infiltration, articular cartilage, bone destruction, and ultimately joint dysfunction, even deformity. IL-35 (Interleukin-35) is a new member of the IL-12 (Interleukin-12) family, which is an immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory cytokine secreted mainly by Treg (T regulatory cells). There is evidence suggested that IL-35 can attenuate the progression of RA through influencing the immune and pathological process. It suggests that IL-35 played an important role in the pathogenesis of RA, and can be used as a potential target for the future treatment of RA. This review summarizes the recent advances of IL-35 in the pathological roles and the therapeutic potential roles in RA.

IL-35: A Novel Immunomodulator in Hepatitis B Virus-Related Liver Diseases

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a risk factor for liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), however, little is known about the mechanisms involved in the progression of HBV-related diseases. It has been well acknowledged that host immune response was closely related to the clinical outcomes of patients with HBV infection. As the factors closely related to the immunomodulatory process, cytokines are crucial in the cell-cell communication and the host responses to HBV infection. Recently, a newly discovered cytokine, designated as interleukin-35 (IL-35), has been proved to be essential for the progression of chronic HBV infection, the development of cirrhosis, the transformation of cirrhosis to HCC, and the metastasis of HCC. Specifically, it showed various biological activities such as inhibiting the HBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) proliferation and cytotoxicity, deactivating the immature effector T-cells (Teffs), as well as delaying the proliferation of dendritic cells. It regulated the immune responses by acting as a “brake” on the activation of Teffs, which subsequently played important roles in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases and malignancies. In this review, we focused on the most recent data on the relationship between IL-35 and chronic HBV infection, LC and HCC.

Inhibited interleukin 35 expression and interleukin 35-induced regulatory T cells promote type II innate lymphoid cell response in allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Interleukin (IL)-35 and IL-35-producing regulatory T cells (iTr35) have been reported to inhibit TH2 response in allergic rhinitis (AR). However, its effects on type II innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) are not well characterized.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of IL-35 on ILC2 in AR.

METHODS

A total of 25 patients with AR and 20 controls were recruited. The expression and regulation of IL-35 receptor in ILC2 were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The effect of IL-35 on ILC2 differentiation and cytokine production was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition, iTr35 were cocultured with ILC2 to explore the effect of iTr35 on ILC2. The AR mice models were also established to confirm the role of IL-35 in vivo.

RESULTS

The patients with AR had decreased IL-35 expression and iTr35 proportion and increased ILC2 and type II cytokines compared with the controls. Notably, IL-35 inhibited ILC2 differentiation and type II cytokine production by regulating IL-12Rβ2 and gp130. IL-35 promoted the inducible costimulatory molecule expression by iTr35 and the inducible costimulatory molecule ligand expression by ILC2. IL-35-treated mice with AR presented decreased frequency and function of nasal ILC2.

CONCLUSION

IL-35 inhibited ILC2 responses directly or through mutual contact between iTr35 and ILC2 in AR, suggesting that IL-35 may be used as a potential treatment target in AR.

HMGB1 suppress the expression of IL-35 by regulating Naïve CD4+ T cell differentiation and aggravating Caspase-11-dependent pyroptosis in acute lung injury

OBJECTIVES

Acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ALI/ARDS) is a severe form of inflammatory lung disease. Its development and progression are regulated by cytokines. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of HMGB1 involved in the regulation of Treg cells and IL-35.

METHODS

A cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced ALI model was used to investigate the changes in IL-35, Tregs, and the expression of RAGE and caspase-11 after HMGB1 inhibition (glycyrrhizin was used as an inhibitor of HMGB1). CD4+ naïve T cells sorted from C57BL/6 mice spleens were cultured to explore the role of HMGB1 in the differentiation from CD4+ naïve T cells to Tregs.

RESULTS

HMGB1 promoted lung injury and uncontrolled inflammation in the CLP mouse model. HMGB1, NF-κB p65, RAGE, and caspase-11 expression in the lungs of CLP mice decreased significantly after pretreatment with glycyrrhizin. We found that the Treg proportion and IL-35 expression were upregulated in the serum and lung of CLP mice after inhibiting HMGB1. In our in vitro experiments, we found that recombinant HMGB1 significantly suppressed the proportion of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+Tregs differentiated from CD4+ naïve T cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The inhibition of HMGB1 increased the proportion of Treg and expression of IL-35 and alleviated lung injury in the CLP-induced ALI model. Furthermore, inhibition of HMGB1 reduced caspase-11-dependent pyroptosis in the lungs of the CLP-induced ALI model.

Potential therapeutic effects of interleukin-35 on the differentiation of naïve T cells into Helios+Foxp3+ Tregs in clinical and experimental acute respiratory distress syndrome

Regulatory T lymphocytes are important targets for the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). IL-35 is a newly identified IL-12 cytokine family member that plays an important protective role in a variety of immune system diseases by regulating Treg cell differentiation; however, the role of IL-35 in the pathogenesis of ARDS is still unclear. Here, we found that IL-35 was significantly elevated in adult patients with ARDS compared to controls. Additionally, IL-35 was positively and significantly correlated with IL-6, IL-10 and the oxygenation index (PaO2/FiO2 ratio) but negatively correlated with TNF-α, IL-1β and APACHE II score during ARDS. Moreover, the proportion of Treg/CD4⁺ cells in the peripheral blood of ARDS patients and the expression of NF-κB in PMBCs were significantly higher than in healthy individuals. Recombinant IL-35 improved survival in a murine model of CLP-induced ARDS. Additionally, IL-35 administration decreased the inflammatory response, as reflected by lower levels of cytokines (including IL-2, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) and less lung damage in CLP-induced ARDS. Furthermore, recombinant IL-35 reduced the apoptosis of lung tissue and the expression of NF-κB signalling in a CLP-induced ARDS model and increased the proportion of Treg cells in spleen and peripheral blood. In vitro experiments revealed that IL-35 can affect the phosphorylation of STAT5 during differentiation of naïve CD4⁺ T lymphocytes into Foxp3⁺Helios⁺ Tregs. Our findings suggest that IL-35 attenuates ARDS by promoting the differentiation of naïve CD4⁺ T cells into Foxp3⁺Helios⁺ Tregs, thereby providing a novel tool for anti-ARDS therapy.

Immunomodulatory cytokine interleukin-35 and immune thrombocytopaenia

Considerable attention has been paid to interleukin (IL)-35 because of its immunosuppressive effects in a variety of autoimmune diseases. IL-35, a recently identified cytokine of the IL-12 family, is a negative regulatory factor secreted by IL-35-inducible regulatory T cells (iTr35 cells) and the recently reported regulatory B cells (Breg cells). Four biological effects of IL-35 have been discovered in vitro and in vivo: (i) suppression of T cell proliferation; (ii) conversion of naive T cells into iTr35 cells; (iii) downregulation of type 17 helper T (Th17) cells; and (iv) conversion of Breg cells into a Breg subset that produces IL-35 and IL-10. IL-35 plays an important role in a variety of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, allergic asthma and systemic lupus erythematosus. Primary immune thrombocytopaenia (ITP), which is characterized by isolated thrombocytopaenia and mild mucocutaneous to life-threatening bleeding, is an autoimmune disease with complex dysregulation of the immune system. Both antibody-mediated and/or T cell-mediated platelet destruction are key processes. In addition, impairment of T cells and cytokine imbalances have now been recognized to be important. This review summarizes the immunomodulatory effects of IL-35 and its role in the pathogenesis of ITP as mediated by T and B cells.

IL35 predicts prognosis in gastric cancer and is associated with angiogenesis by altering TIMP1, PAI1 and IGFBP1

Tumor angiogenesis is required for tumor growth and metastasis. Interleukin‐35 (IL35), a member of the IL12 family, is a dimer composed of IL12A and EBV‐induced gene 3（EBI3）. Elevated plasma IL35 levels have been reported to be associated with the occurrence and development of tumors. However, the role of IL35 in the angiogenesis of gastric cancer (GC) is still unclear. Here, we report that expression of IL35 is correlated with higher microvessel density, distant metastasis and poor prognosis in GC. Moreover, in vitro tube formation assays were performed to show that IL35 may contribute to the tube formation abilities of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. IL12A was observed to be the dominant subunit in promotion of tube formation. IL12A also inhibited expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 and enhanced expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 and insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein 1 in a GC cell line. In conclusion, our data suggest that IL35 is involved in angiogenesis and is associated with poor prognosis for GC.

Serum level of interleukin-35 as a potential prognostic factor for gastric cancer

AIMS

Interleukin-35 (IL-35), a novel anti-inflammatory cytokine, has recently been implicated in tumor development, progression, and survival. However, the relationship between serum IL-35 levels and gastric cancer (GC) is inconclusive. Here, we performed this study to clarify the role of serum level of IL-35 in GC patients.

METHODS

We enrolled 180 GC patients and 170 healthy controls and used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect serum IL-35 levels. The clinical relevance between IL-35 and clinical pathology parameters was assessed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to determine the feasibility of IL-35 as a clinical biomarker.

RESULTS

We observed that serum IL-35 levels were significantly higher in GC patients (17.559 ± 13.266 pg/mL) than in healthy controls (8.077 ± 3.801 pg/mL, P < .001). High serum IL-35 levels were significantly associated with clinical stage (P = .048) and Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection (P < .001). The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated that patients in the high-IL-35 group had poor overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) (median OS: 26.0 vs 36.0 months, P < .001; median PFS: 18.0 vs.26.0 months, P = .044). Multivariate analyses demonstrated that serum IL-35 was an independent prognostic factor for GC (OS: hazard ratio [HR] = 1.031 [95% CI, 1.017-1.045], P < .001; PFS: HR = 1.029 [95% CI, 1.015-1.043], P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

High serum IL-35 levels are associated with poor disease prognosis in GC patients, and it may be become a new and promising biomarker for prognosis of gastric cancer.

The effects of phenanthrene exposure on Treg and Th17 cells related cytokines in female rats

Phenanthrene (Phe) female rat model was established to explore the mechanism of Phe on immune impairment. The rats were randomly divided into three groups, including control (C), low (L), and high (H) groups. Phe was supplied to L and H groups at the dose of 180 and 900 mg/kg orally at first day and with the dose of 90 and 450 mg/kg by intraperitoneal injection at the last 2 days. The C group was enriched with the same volume of corn oil. The liver tissue was collected. Then, the protein and mRNA expressions of interleukin (IL)-35 and the concentration IL-17 were detected to evaluate the function of regulatory T cells (Treg cells) and T helper 17 cells (Th17 cells). In addition, IL-1β and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) were analyzed to evaluate the immune impairment. The results showed that the protein and mRNA expressions of IL-35 decreased significantly in H groups (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, there were significant increases in IL-17, IFN-γ and IL-1β in the liver of H group (P < 0.05). This study demonstrated that Phe exposure might be associated with the immune impairment via changing inflammatory mediators including IL-35 and IL-17 in female rats.

Genome-Wide CRISPR Screen Identifies Host Factors Required by Toxoplasma gondii Infection

Toxoplasma gondii are obligate intracellular protoza, and due to their small genome and limited encoded proteins, they have to exploit host factors for entry, replication, and dissemination. Such host factors can be defined as host dependency factors (HDFs). Though HDFs are inessential for cell viability, they are critical for pathogen infection, and potential ideal targets for therapeutic intervention. However, information about these HDFs required by T. gondii infection is highly deficient. In this study, the genes of human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) cells were comprehensively edited using the lentiviral CRISPR-Cas9-sgRNA library, and then the lentivirus-treated cells were infected with T. gondii at multiplication of infection 1 (MOI = 1) for 10 days to identify HDFs essential for T. gondii infection. The survival cells were harvested and sent for sgRNA sequencing. The sgRNA sequence matched genes or miRNAs were potential HDFs. Some cells in the lentivirus-treated group could survive longer than those in the untreated control group after T. gondii infection. From a pool of 19,050 human genes and 1,864 human pri-miRNAs, 1,193 potential HDFs were identified, including 1,183 genes and 10 pri-miRNAs (corresponding with 17 mature miRNAs). Among them, seven genes and five mature miRNAs were validated with siRNAs, miRNA inhibitors, and mimics, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that, among the 1,183 genes, 53 potential HDFs were associated with regulation of host actin cytoskeleton and 23 potential HDFs coded immune negative regulators. This result indicated that actin dynamics were indispensable for T. gondii infection, and some host immune negative regulators may be involved in disarming host defenses. Our findings contribute to the current limited knowledge about host factors required by T. gondii infection and provide us with new targets for medication therapy and vaccine exploitation.

Proteomics analysis reveals the interleukin-35-dependent regulatory mechanisms affecting CD8+ T-cell functions

Interleukin (IL)-35 strongly suppresses the immune effects of CD8⁺ T cells. However, the mechanisms mediating these effects are not clear. Here, we investigated the potential inhibitory mechanisms of IL-35 using proteomics technology. The changes of differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were evaluated using gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses. IL-35 negatively regulated the expression of proteins in the biological processes category. GO analysis identified cellular immunosuppression regulation and external stimulation of regulatory proteins as pathways that were most affected by IL-35. Among the proteins regulated in these pathways, cell-matrix adhesion junction and anchoring junction proteins were more abundant. KEGG pathway analysis showed that cytochrome c and IL-12A were significantly altered. DEPs were related to cell signaling, migration, inhibition, apoptosis, and enrichment of arachidonic acid metabolism. These findings improved our understanding of the roles of IL-35 in inhibition of CD8⁺ T cells.

Therapeutic effects of Crocin in autoimmune diseases: A review

The immune system when acts against selfmolecules results in an imbalance in immunologic tolerance leading to the development of several autoimmune diseases (ADs) such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, ulcerative colitis, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis. Improved recognition of the mechanisms of ADs has led to the advancement of the management of these diseases. The principal mediators of ADs are inflammatory molecules. The herbal medicines due to their antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties have an important role in the management of ADs. Crocin is the principal chemical component extracted from saffron, which is a medicinal plant. This review focuses on the therapeutic effects of Crocin in various ADs.

Preventative delivery of IL-35 by Lactococcus lactis ameliorates DSS-induced colitis in mice

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is one of the two major forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by superficial mucosal inflammation, rectal bleeding, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs have been used in the therapy of human UC. Interleukin (IL)-35, which functions as an anti-inflammatory cytokine, has been shown to play a potential therapeutic role in a UC-like mouse colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). However, the contribution of IL-35 via oral administration to colitis prevention has not been determined. In order to explore its preventative potentiality, a dairy Lactococcus lactis NZ9000 strain was engineered to express murine IL-35 (NZ9000/IL-35), and this recombinant bacteria was applied to prevent and limit the development of DSS-induced mouse colitis. We found that oral administration of NZ9000/IL-35 induced the accumulation of IL-35 in the gut lumen of normal mice. When administrated preventatively, NZ9000/IL-35-gavaged mice exhibited decreased weight loss, DAI score, colon shortening as well as colitis-associated histopathological changes in colon, indicating that the oral administration of NZ9000/35 contributed to the suppression of DSS-induced colitis progression. Moreover, much less Th17 cells and higher level of Treg cells in lamina propria, as well as increased colon and serum levels of IL-10 with a concomitant reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6, IL-17A, IFN-γ, and TNF-α were apparently regulated by NZ9000/IL-35 in colitis mice. Together, we put forward direct evidence pinpointing the effectiveness of NZ9000/IL-35 in preventing UC-like mouse colitis, implying a potential candidate of this recombinant Lactococcus lactis that prevent the progression of IBD.

Immunoregulatory Functions of the IL-12 Family of Cytokines in Antiviral Systems

Members of the interleukin 12 (IL-12) family have been known to be inflammatory factors since their discovery. The IL-12 family consists of IL-12, IL-23, IL-27, IL-35, and a new member, IL-39, which has recently been identified and has not yet been studied extensively. Current literature has described the mechanisms of immunity of these cytokines and potential uses for therapy and medical cures. IL-12 was found first and is effective in combatting a wide range of naturally occurring viral infections through the upregulation of various cytokines to clear the infected cells. IL-23 has an essential function in immune networks, can induce IL-17 production, and can antagonize inhibition from IL-12 in the presence of T helper (Th) 17 cells, resulting in type II IFN (IFN-γ) regulation. IL-27 has a competitive relationship to IL-35 because they both include the same subunit, the Epstein–Barr virus-induced gene3 (EBi3). This review provides a simple introduction to the IL-12 family and focuses on their functions relevant to their actions to counteract viral infections.

Soluble fibrinogen-like protein 2 promotes the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma via attenuating dendritic cell-mediated cytotoxic T cell activity

BACKGROUND

Soluble fibrinogen-like protein 2 (sFGL2), a secretory protein expressed by regulatory T cells (Tregs) with immunosuppressive activity, is highly expressed in both the peripheral blood and tumor tissue of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, sFGL2 function in HCC remains largely unknown. Here, we elucidated the potential role of sFGL2 in HCC progression.

METHODS

T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and related cytokines in the tumor microenvironment were comparatively analyzed in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice bearing transplanted hepatomas harboring Fgl2-knockout or receiving sFGL2-antibody treatment. Additionally, the effects of sFGL2 on DCs and T cells were evaluated in vivo and ex vivo.

RESULTS

The growth of both subcutaneously and orthotopically transplanted hepatomas was inhibited in Fgl2-knockout mice and those treated with the sFGL2 antibody, respectively, as compared with controls. Moreover, sFGL2 depletion enhanced the proportion and cytotoxicity of cytotoxic T cells, promoted DC maturation, and improved DC activity to proliferate T cells in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, we detected lower levels of interleukin (IL)-35 in both types of transplanted hepatomas and higher level of IL-6 in orthotopically transplanted hepatomas following sFGL2 depletion. Mechanistically, we found that sFGL2 impaired bone-marrow-derived DC (BMDCs) function by inhibiting phosphorylation of Akt, nuclear factor-kappaB, cAMP response element binding protein, and p38 and downregulating the expression of major histocompatibility complex II, CD40, CD80, CD86, and CD83 on BMDCs in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that sFGL2 promotes hepatoma growth by attenuating DC activity and subsequent CD8+ T cell cytotoxicity, suggesting sFGL2 as a novel potential therapeutic target for HCC treatment.

Interleukin-35 suppresses antitumor activity of circulating CD8+ T cells in osteosarcoma patients

Purpose/Aim of the study: Interleukin (IL)-35 is a newly identified IL-12 cytokine family member and reveals immunosuppressive activity to CD8⁺ T cells in inflammation, infectious diseases, and cancers. However, little is known regarding IL-35 function in osteosarcoma. Thus, the aim of the current study was to investigate the regulatory function of IL-35 to CD8+ T cells in osteosarcoma. Materials and methods: Thirty-five osteosarcoma patients and 20 healthy individuals were enrolled. Serum CD4⁺CD25⁺CD127^dim/- regulatory T cells (Tregs) and CD8⁺ T cells were purified. IL-35 concentration in serum and cultured supernatants was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Osteosarcoma cell line MG-63 cells and CD8⁺ T cells were stimulated with recombinant IL-35 in vitro, and modulatory function of IL-35 on these cells was assessed by investigation of cellular proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, and cytokine production. Results: Serum IL-35 and Treg-secreting IL-35 were significantly elevated in osteosarcoma patients. IL-35 stimulation did not affect proliferation, apoptosis, or cell cycle of MG-63 cells. Purified peripheral CD8⁺ T cells from osteosarcoma patients revealed dysfunctional property, which presented as decreased mRNA expressions for perforin, granzyme B, and granulysin, as well as reduced cytolytic (direct lysis of target MG-63 cells) and noncytolytic (interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α production) function in coculture systems. Moreover, IL-35 stimulation further diminished cytolytic and noncytolytic activity of CD8⁺ T cells from osteosarcoma patients. Conclusions: The current data indicated that IL-35 contributed to CD8⁺ T-cell dysfunction and limited antitumor immune response in osteosarcoma.

Rapid Communication: Plasma Interleukin-35 in Children with Autism

In autism spectrum disorders (ASD) many individuals have co-morbid immune dysregulation that can lead to inflammation in the brain and periphery. The novel cytokine interleukin (IL)-35 has described anti-inflammatory properties; however, the plasma levels of IL-35 in children with ASD have never been investigated. The plasma levels of IL-35 were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 30 children with ASD and 39 typically developing (TD) controls. In the current study, we found that plasma IL-35 levels were significantly decreased in children with ASD compared with TD children. Furthermore, lower IL-35 levels were associated with worse behaviors as assessed using the aberrant behavior checklist. These findings are in line with other observations of decreased regulatory cytokines such as transforming growth factor beta and IL-10 in ASD, and associations with severity of behaviors. In conclusion, regulating the expression of IL-35 may provide a new possible target for the treatment of immune issues in ASD to address an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory signals that alter the behavioral phenotype.

Interleukin-35 as an Emerging Player in Tumor Microenvironment

IL-35 is the newest member of IL-12 family. A dimeric protein consisting of two separate subunits has manifested suppressive actions on immune system, which is counterproductive in the context of cancers. Various reports have confirmed its inhibitory role on immune system which is carried out via formation of IL-35-producing regulatory T cells (iTr35), increased Treg development and suppressive Th17 cells growth. Although last decade has seen a great deal of scientific interest on this subject, the exact role, precise signal transduction and elaborative functions of IL-35 in tumor microenvironment (TME) remained elusive. Search for anti-IL-35 therapies have exhibited limited success in animal models. Contrarily, few studies have denied the idea that IL-35 plays a role in cancer. The purpose of this review is to analyze the reported scientific data on continuous symphony of IL-35 in cancers since the inception of former.

Interleukin-35 Dampens CD8+ T Cells Activity in Patients With Non-viral Hepatitis-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Interleukin (IL)-35 is a newly identified IL-12 cytokine family member, which has been demonstrated to induce immunotolerance by suppression of CD8⁺ T cells function in chronic viral hepatitis. However, the role of IL-35 in modulating CD8⁺ T cells activity in non-viral hepatitis-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was not fully elucidated. Forty-four patients with non-viral hepatitis-related HCC and 20 healthy individuals were enrolled. Serum IL-35 concentration was measured by ELISA. CD8⁺ T cells were purified from peripheral bloods and liver tissues. mRNA expression of cytotoxic/inhibitory molecules in CD8⁺ T cells with IL-35 stimulation was semi-quantified by real-time PCR. Direct and indirect contact co-culture systems of CD8⁺ T cells and HCC cell lines were set up. The modulatory function of IL-35 on peripheral and liver-resident CD8⁺ T cells was assessed by measurement of lactate dehydrogenase release and cytokine production in the co-culture supernatants. Serum IL-35 was notably elevated in HCC patients, while effective anti-tumor therapies down-regulated IL-35 concentration. Recombinant IL-35 stimulation suppressed cytotoxicity and proinflammatory cytokine secretion of peripheral and liver-resident CD8⁺ T cells in direct and indirect contact co-culture systems. This process was accompanied by reduction of perforin expression and interferon-γ production, as well as programmed death-1 and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 elevation in CD8⁺ T cells. The current data suggested that IL-35 inhibited both cytolytic and non-cytolytic function of CD8⁺ T cells to non-viral hepatitis-related HCC probably via repression of perforin expression. IL-35 might be considered to be one of the therapeutic targets for patients with HCC.

EB1-3 Chain of IL-35 Along With TGF-β Synergistically Regulate Anti-leishmanial Immunity

Immunosuppression is a characteristic feature of chronic leishmaniasis. The dynamicity and the functional cross talks of host immune responses during Leishmania infection are still not clearly understood. Here we explored the functional aspects of accumulation of immune suppressive cellular and cytokine milieu during the progression of murine visceral leishmaniasis. In addition to IL-10 and TGF-β, investigation on the responses of different subunit chains of IL-12 family revealed a progressive elevation of EBI-3 and p35 chains of IL-35 with Leishmania donovani infection in BALB/c mice. The expansion of CD25 and FoxP3 positive T cells is associated with loss of IFN-γ and TNF-α response in advanced disease. Ex-vivo and in vivo neutralization of TGF-β and EBI-3 suggests a synergism in suppression of host anti-leishmanial immunity. The down-regulation of EBI-3 and TGF-β is crucial for re-activation of JAK-STAT pathway for induction as well as restoration of protective immunity against L. donovani infection.

IL-35Ig-expressing dendritic cells induce tolerance via Arginase 1

The cytokine interleukin IL‐35 is known to exert strong immunosuppressive functions. Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and Arginase 1 (Arg1) are metabolic enzymes that, expressed by dendritic cells (DCs), contribute to immunoregulation. Here, we explored any possible link between IL‐35 and the activity of those enzymes. We transfected a single chain IL‐35Ig gene construct in murine splenic DCs (DC₃₅) and assessed any IDO1 and Arg1 activities as resulting from ectopic IL‐35Ig expression, both in vitro and in vivo. Unlike Ido1, Arg1 expression was induced in vitro in DC₃₅, and it conferred an immunosuppressive phenotype on those cells, as revealed by a delayed‐type hypersensitivity assay. Moreover, the in vivo onset of a tolerogenic phenotype in DC₃₅ was associated with the detection of CD25⁺CD39⁺, rather than Foxp3⁺, regulatory T cells. Therefore, Arg1, but not Ido1, expression in DC₃₅ appears to be an early event in IL‐35Ig–mediated immunosuppression.

The Effect of Lutein on Eye and Extra-Eye Health

Lutein is a carotenoid with reported anti-inflammatory properties. A large body of evidence shows that lutein has several beneficial effects, especially on eye health. In particular, lutein is known to improve or even prevent age-related macular disease which is the leading cause of blindness and vision impairment. Furthermore, many studies have reported that lutein may also have positive effects in different clinical conditions, thus ameliorating cognitive function, decreasing the risk of cancer, and improving measures of cardiovascular health. At present, the available data have been obtained from both observational studies investigating lutein intake with food, and a few intervention trials assessing the efficacy of lutein supplementation. In general, sustained lutein consumption, either through diet or supplementation, may contribute to reducing the burden of several chronic diseases. However, there are also conflicting data concerning lutein efficacy in inducing favorable effects on human health and there are no univocal data concerning the most appropriate dosage for daily lutein supplementation. Therefore, based on the most recent findings, this review will focus on lutein properties, dietary sources, usual intake, efficacy in human health, and toxicity.