1
|
Vieira AA, Almada-Correia I, Inácio J, Costa-Reis P, da Rocha ST. Female-bias in systemic lupus erythematosus: How much is the X chromosome to blame? Biol Sex Differ 2024; 15:76. [PMID: 39375734 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00650-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 10/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is an immune-mediated disease associated with substantial medical burden. Notably, lupus exhibits a striking female bias, with women having significantly higher susceptibility compared to men, up to 14-fold higher in some ethnicities. Supernumerary X chromosome syndromes, like Klinefelter (XXY) and Triple X syndrome (XXX), also present higher SLE prevalence, whereas Turner syndrome (XO) displays lower prevalence. Taken together, SLE prevalence in different X chromosome dosage sceneries denotes a relationship between the number of X chromosomes and the risk of developing lupus. The dosage of X-linked genes, many of which play roles in the immune system, is compensated between males and females through the inactivation of one of the two X chromosomes in female cells. X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) initiates early in development with a random selection of which X chromosome to inactivate, a choice that is then epigenetically maintained in the daughter cells. This process is regulated by the X-Inactive-Specific Transcript (XIST), encoding for a long non-coding RNA, exclusively expressed from the inactive X chromosome (Xi). XIST interacts with various RNA binding proteins and chromatin modifiers to form a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex responsible for the transcriptional silencing and heterochromatinization of the Xi. This ensures stable silencing of most genes on the X chromosome, with only a few genes able to escape this process. Recent findings suggest that the molecular components involved in XCI, or their dysregulation, contribute to the pathogenesis of lupus. Indeed, nonrandom XCI, elevated gene escape from XCI, and the autoimmune potential of the XIST RNP complex have been suggested to contribute to auto-immune diseases, such as lupus. This review examines these current hypotheses concerning how this dosage compensation mechanism might impact the development of lupus, shedding light on potential mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana A Vieira
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Almada-Correia
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Inácio
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Costa-Reis
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - S T da Rocha
- iBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Associate Laboratory i4HB Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Forsyth KS, Toothacre NE, Jiwrajka N, Driscoll AM, Shallberg LA, Cunningham-Rundles C, Barmettler S, Farmer J, Verbsky J, Routes J, Beiting DP, Romberg N, May MJ, Anguera MC. Maintenance of X chromosome inactivation after T cell activation requires NF-κB signaling. Sci Immunol 2024; 9:eado0398. [PMID: 39365876 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.ado0398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
X chromosome inactivation (XCI) balances X-linked gene dosage between sexes. Unstimulated T cells lack cytological enrichment of X-inactive specific transcript (Xist) RNA and heterochromatic modifications on the inactive X chromosome (Xi), which are involved in maintenance of XCI, and these modifications return to the Xi after stimulation. Here, we examined allele-specific gene expression and epigenomic profiles of the Xi in T cells. We found that the Xi in unstimulated T cells is largely dosage compensated and enriched with the repressive H3K27me3 modification but not the H2AK119-ubiquitin (Ub) mark. Upon T cell stimulation mediated by both CD3 and CD28, the Xi accumulated H2AK119-Ub at gene regions of previous H3K27me3 enrichment. T cell receptor (TCR) engagement, specifically NF-κB signaling downstream of the TCR, was required for Xist RNA localization to the Xi. Disruption of NF-κB signaling in mouse and human T cells using genetic deletion, chemical inhibitors, and patients with immunodeficiencies prevented Xist/XIST RNA accumulation at the Xi and altered X-linked gene expression. Our findings reveal a previously undescribed connection between NF-κB signaling pathways, which affects XCI maintenance in T cells in females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Forsyth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Natalie E Toothacre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Nikhil Jiwrajka
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Amanda M Driscoll
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lindsey A Shallberg
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Charlotte Cunningham-Rundles
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York City, NY 10029, USA
| | - Sara Barmettler
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston MA 02114, USA
| | - Jocelyn Farmer
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston MA 02114, USA
| | - James Verbsky
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - John Routes
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Daniel P Beiting
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Neil Romberg
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michael J May
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dror I, Tan T, Plath K. A critical role for X-chromosome architecture in mammalian X-chromosome dosage compensation. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 87:102235. [PMID: 39053028 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
To regulate gene expression, the macromolecular components of the mammalian interphase nucleus are spatially organized into a myriad of functional compartments. Over the past decade, increasingly sophisticated genomics, microscopy, and functional approaches have probed this organization in unprecedented detail. These investigations have linked chromatin-associated noncoding RNAs to specific nuclear compartments and uncovered mechanisms by which these RNAs establish such domains. In this review, we focus on the long non-coding RNA Xist and summarize new evidence demonstrating the significance of chromatin reconfiguration in creating the inactive X-chromosome compartment. Differences in chromatin compaction correlate with distinct levels of gene repression on the X-chromosome, potentially explaining how human XIST can induce chromosome-wide dampening and silencing of gene expression at different stages of human development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iris Dror
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Tiao Tan
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Kathrin Plath
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Brain Research Institute, Graduate Program in the Biosciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Forsyth KS, Jiwrajka N, Lovell CD, Toothacre NE, Anguera MC. The conneXion between sex and immune responses. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:487-502. [PMID: 38383754 PMCID: PMC11216897 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-00996-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
There are notable sex-based differences in immune responses to pathogens and self-antigens, with female individuals exhibiting increased susceptibility to various autoimmune diseases, and male individuals displaying preferential susceptibility to some viral, bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections. Although sex hormones clearly contribute to sex differences in immune cell composition and function, the presence of two X chromosomes in female individuals suggests that differential gene expression of numerous X chromosome-linked immune-related genes may also influence sex-biased innate and adaptive immune cell function in health and disease. Here, we review the sex differences in immune system composition and function, examining how hormones and genetics influence the immune system. We focus on the genetic and epigenetic contributions responsible for altered X chromosome-linked gene expression, and how this impacts sex-biased immune responses in the context of pathogen infection and systemic autoimmunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Forsyth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nikhil Jiwrajka
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Claudia D Lovell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Natalie E Toothacre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mahla RS. TLR7 signaling: a central nexus in autoimmunity and cGVHD. Blood Adv 2024; 8:3186-3188. [PMID: 38696714 PMCID: PMC11225663 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2024012598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjeet Singh Mahla
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Medical Science Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lovell CD, Jiwrajka N, Amerman HK, Cancro MP, Anguera MC. Xist Deletion in B Cells Results in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Phenotypes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.15.594175. [PMID: 38798403 PMCID: PMC11118349 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.15.594175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease preferentially observed in females. X-linked gene expression in XX females is normalized to that of XY males by X-Chromosome Inactivation (XCI). However, B cells from female SLE patients and mouse models of SLE exhibit mislocalization of Xist RNA, a critical regulator of XCI, and aberrant expression of X-linked genes, suggesting that impairment of XCI may contribute to disease. Here, we find that a subset of female mice harboring a conditional deletion of Xis t in B cells ("Xist cKO") spontaneously develop SLE phenotypes, including expanded activated B cell subsets, disease-specific autoantibodies, and glomerulonephritis. Moreover, pristane-induced SLE-like disease is more severe in Xist cKO mice. Activated B cells from Xist cKO mice with SLE phenotypes have increased expression of proinflammatory X-linked genes implicated in SLE. Together, this work indicates that impaired XCI maintenance in B cells directly contributes to the female-bias of SLE.
Collapse
|
7
|
Carpenter S, O'Neill LAJ. From periphery to center stage: 50 years of advancements in innate immunity. Cell 2024; 187:2030-2051. [PMID: 38670064 PMCID: PMC11060700 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Over the past 50 years in the field of immunology, something of a Copernican revolution has happened. For a long time, immunologists were mainly concerned with what is termed adaptive immunity, which involves the exquisitely specific activities of lymphocytes. But the other arm of immunity, so-called "innate immunity," had been neglected. To celebrate Cell's 50th anniversary, we have put together a review of the processes and components of innate immunity and trace the seminal contributions leading to the modern state of this field. Innate immunity has joined adaptive immunity in the center of interest for all those who study the body's defenses, as well as homeostasis and pathology. We are now entering the era where therapeutic targeting of innate immune receptors and downstream signals hold substantial promise for infectious and inflammatory diseases and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Carpenter
- University of California Santa Cruz, 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA.
| | - Luke A J O'Neill
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Miceli R, Eriksson H, Lo Russo G, Alfieri S, Moksnes Bjaanæs M, Pietrantonio F, De Cecco L, Prelaj A, Proto C, Franzén J, McDonnell D, Berenguer Pina JJ, Beninato T, Mazzeo L, Giannatempo P, Verzoni E, Crown J, Helland Å, Eustace A. Gender Difference in sidE eFfects of ImmuNotherapy: a possible clue to optimize cancEr tReatment (G-DEFINER): study protocol of an observational prospective multicenter study. Acta Oncol 2024; 63:213-219. [PMID: 38647024 PMCID: PMC11332465 DOI: 10.2340/1651-226x.2024.24179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have significantly improved outcomes in various cancers. ICI treatment is associated with the incidence of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) which can affect any organ. Data on irAEs occurrence in relation to sex- differentiation and their association with gender-specific factors are limited. AIMS The primary objective of the G-DEFINER study is to compare the irAEs incidence in female and male patients who undergo ICI treatment. Secondary objectives are: to compare the irAEs incidence in pre- and postmenopausal female patients; to compare the irAEs incidence in female and male patients according to different clinical and gender-related factors (lifestyle, psychosocial, and behavioral factors). Exploratory objectives of the study are to compare and contrast hormonal, gene-expression, SNPs, cytokines, and gut microbiota profiles in relation to irAEs incidence in female and male patients. METHODS AND RESULTS The patients are recruited from Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Italy, St Vincent's University Hospital, Ireland, Oslo University Hospital, Norway, and Karolinska Insitutet/Karolinska University Hospital, Sweden. The inclusion of patients was delayed due to the Covid pandemic, leading to a total of 250 patients recruited versus a planned number of 400 patients. Clinical and translational data will be analyzed. INTERPRETATION The expected outcomes are to improve the management of cancer patients treated with ICIs, leading to more personalized clinical approaches that consider potential toxicity profiles. The real world nature of the trial makes it highly applicable for timely irAEs diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosalba Miceli
- Unit of Biostatistics for Clinical Research, Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy.
| | - Hanna Eriksson
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Theme Cancer, unit of Head-Neck-, Lung-, and Skin Cancer Karolinska University Hospital-Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Giuseppe Lo Russo
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Alfieri
- Head and Neck Unit, Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Filippo Pietrantonio
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Loris De Cecco
- Integrated biology of rare tumors, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Arsela Prelaj
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Proto
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Johan Franzén
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Theme Cancer, unit of Head-Neck-, Lung-, and Skin Cancer Karolinska University Hospital-Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Deirdre McDonnell
- Department of Medical Oncology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Teresa Beninato
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Mazzeo
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Giannatempo
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Verzoni
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - John Crown
- Department of Medical Oncology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Åslaug Helland
- Radium Hospital/Oncology, University of Oslo, Institute of Clinical medicine, Oslo, Norway
| | - Alexander Eustace
- Department of Medical Oncology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Forsyth KS, Toothacre NE, Jiwrajka N, Driscoll AM, Shallberg LA, Cunningham-Rundles C, Barmettler S, Farmer J, Verbsky J, Routes J, Beiting DP, Romberg N, May MJ, Anguera MC. NF-κB Signaling is Required for X-Chromosome Inactivation Maintenance Following T cell Activation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.08.579505. [PMID: 38405871 PMCID: PMC10888971 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.08.579505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
X Chromosome Inactivation (XCI) is a female-specific process which balances X-linked gene dosage between sexes. Unstimulated T cells lack cytological enrichment of Xist RNA and heterochromatic modifications on the inactive X chromosome (Xi), and these modifications become enriched at the Xi after cell stimulation. Here, we examined allele-specific gene expression and the epigenomic profiles of the Xi following T cell stimulation. We found that the Xi in unstimulated T cells is largely dosage compensated and is enriched with the repressive H3K27me3 modification, but not the H2AK119-ubiquitin (Ub) mark, even at promoters of XCI escape genes. Upon CD3/CD28-mediated T cell stimulation, the Xi accumulates H2AK119-Ub and H3K27me3 across the Xi. Next, we examined the T cell signaling pathways responsible for Xist RNA localization to the Xi and found that T cell receptor (TCR) engagement, specifically NF-κB signaling downstream of TCR, is required. Disruption of NF-κB signaling, using inhibitors or genetic deletions, in mice and patients with immunodeficiencies prevents Xist/XIST RNA accumulation at the Xi and alters expression of some X-linked genes. Our findings reveal a novel connection between NF-κB signaling pathways which impact XCI maintenance in female T cells.
Collapse
|
10
|
Harvey BJ, Harvey HM. Sex Differences in Colon Cancer: Genomic and Nongenomic Signalling of Oestrogen. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2225. [PMID: 38137047 PMCID: PMC10742859 DOI: 10.3390/genes14122225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Colon cancer (CRC) is a prevalent malignancy that exhibits distinct differences in incidence, prognosis, and treatment responses between males and females. These disparities have long been attributed to hormonal differences, particularly the influence of oestrogen signalling. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying sex differences in colon cancer and the protective role of membrane and nuclear oestrogen signalling in CRC development, progression, and therapeutic interventions. We discuss the epidemiological and molecular evidence supporting sex differences in colon cancer, followed by an exploration of the impact of oestrogen in CRC through various genomic and nongenomic signalling pathways involving membrane and nuclear oestrogen receptors. Furthermore, we examine the interplay between oestrogen receptors and other signalling pathways, in particular the Wnt/β-catenin proliferative pathway and hypoxia in shaping biological sex differences and oestrogen protective actions in colon cancer. Lastly, we highlight the potential therapeutic implications of targeting oestrogen signalling in the management of colon cancer and propose future research directions to address the current gaps in our understanding of this complex phenomenon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian J. Harvey
- Faculty of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Harry M. Harvey
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z5, Canada;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cantu A, Gutierrez MC, Dong X, Leek C, Anguera M, Lingappan K. Modulation of recovery from neonatal hyperoxic lung injury by sex as a biological variable. Redox Biol 2023; 68:102933. [PMID: 38661305 PMCID: PMC10628633 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Recovery from lung injury during the neonatal period requires the orchestration of many biological pathways. The modulation of such pathways can drive the developing lung towards proper repair or persistent maldevelopment that can lead to a disease phenotype. Sex as a biological variable can regulate these pathways differently in the male and female lung exposed to neonatal hyperoxia. In this study, we assessed the contribution of cellular diversity in the male and female neonatal lung following injury. Our objective was to investigate sex and cell-type specific transcriptional changes that drive repair or persistent injury in the neonatal lung and delineate the alterations in the immune-endothelial cell communication networks using single cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNAseq) in a murine model of hyperoxic injury. We generated transcriptional profiles of >55,000 cells isolated from the lungs of postnatal day 1 (PND 1; pre-exposure), PND 7, and PND 21neonatal male and female C57BL/6 mice exposed to 95 % FiO2 between PND 1-5 (saccular stage of lung development). We show the presence of sex-based differences in the transcriptional states of lung endothelial and immune cells at PND 1 and PND 21. Furthermore, we demonstrate that biological sex significantly influences the response to injury, with a greater number of differentially expressed genes showing sex-specific patterns than those shared between male and female lungs. Pseudotime trajectory analysis highlighted genes needed for lung development that were altered by hyperoxia. Finally, we show intercellular communication between endothelial and immune cells at saccular and alveolar stages of lung development with sex-based biases in the crosstalk and identify novel ligand-receptor pairs. Our findings provide valuable insights into the cell diversity, transcriptional state, developmental trajectory, and cell-cell communication underlying neonatal lung injury, with implications for understanding lung development and possible therapeutic interventions while highlighting the crucial role of sex as a biological variable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abiud Cantu
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Xiaoyu Dong
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Connor Leek
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Montserrat Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Krithika Lingappan
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pellegrino R, Paganelli R, Di Iorio A, Bandinelli S, Moretti A, Iolascon G, Sparvieri E, Tarantino D, Ferrucci L. Temporal trends, sex differences, and age-related disease influence in Neutrophil, Lymphocyte count and Neutrophil to Lymphocyte-ratio: results from InCHIANTI follow-up study. Immun Ageing 2023; 20:46. [PMID: 37667259 PMCID: PMC10476368 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-023-00370-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neutrophils and lymphocytes represent the larger percentage of all white blood cells, they vary with age, with a progressive increase of the ratio in the first years of life, and then tend to remain at similar levels in steady state condition during adult age. Neutrophils to lymphocytes-ratio (NL-ratio) was proposed as an effective and low-cost marker to monitor and predict the evolution of several clinical conditions. The main objective of the study is to analyze its temporal trend variation, over twenty years' follow-up, according to age, sex, and main clinical diagnosis, in a large representative Italian population. METHODS The InCHIANTI study enrolled representative samples from the registry list of two towns in Tuscany, Italy. Baseline data were collected in 1998, and last follow-up visits were made in 2015-18. 1343 out of the 1453 participants enrolled were included, and consented to donate a blood sample. All subjects were assessed and followed for life-style, clinical condition, physical performance, and underwent an instrumental diagnostic session. RESULTS The NL-ratio showed a statistically significant interaction between birth-cohort and time of the study (p-value = 0.005). A gender dimorphism was recognized in the neutrophils absolute count and in the NL-ratio. Moreover, in female participants only, those who reported CHF had lower neutrophil-count and NL-ratio; whereas an increase in creatinine clearance was directly associated with NL-ratio. In male subjects, an increase of BMI was inversely associated with both NL-ratio and neutrophils-count during the follow-up; a similar association but in the opposite direction was observed in female participants. CONCLUSION NL-ratio is a more reliable predictor of healthy aging than absolute lymphocytes and/or neutrophils counts. It is associated with the changes induced by disease, lifestyle, and environmental challenges in the immune system. NL-ratio confirms the gender dimorphism in the occurrence of inflammation-driven diseases, thus providing additional evidence for the necessity of tailored sex-specific measures to prevent and treat such diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaello Pellegrino
- Department of Scientific Research, Off-Campus Semmelweis University, Campus Ludes, 6912, Lugano-Pazzallo, Switzerland
| | - Roberto Paganelli
- Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Di Iorio
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University "G. d'Annunzio", Viale Abruzzo 322, 66100, Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
| | | | - Antimo Moretti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Iolascon
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Domiziano Tarantino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Ferrucci
- Longitudinal Studies Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, 21224, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bogers L, Kuiper KL, Smolders J, Rip J, van Luijn MM. Epstein-Barr virus and genetic risk variants as determinants of T-bet + B cell-driven autoimmune diseases. Immunol Lett 2023; 261:66-74. [PMID: 37451321 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
B cells expressing the transcription factor T-bet are found to have a protective role in viral infections, but are also considered major players in the onset of different types of autoimmune diseases. Currently, the exact mechanisms driving such 'atypical' memory B cells to contribute to protective immunity or autoimmunity are unclear. In addition to general autoimmune-related factors including sex and age, the ways T-bet+ B cells instigate autoimmune diseases may be determined by the close interplay between genetic risk variants and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The impact of EBV on T-bet+ B cells likely relies on the type of risk variants associated with each autoimmune disease, which may affect their differentiation, migratory routes and effector function. In this hypothesis-driven review, we discuss the lines of evidence pointing to such genetic and/or EBV-mediated influence on T-bet+ B cells in a range of autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and multiple sclerosis (MS). We provide examples of how genetic risk variants can be linked to certain signaling pathways and are differentially affected by EBV to shape T-bet+ B-cells. Finally, we propose options to improve current treatment of B cell-related autoimmune diseases by more selective targeting of pathways that are critical for pathogenic T-bet+ B-cell formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurens Bogers
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands
| | - Kirsten L Kuiper
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Smolders
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands; MS Center ErasMS, Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands; Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Neuroimmunology research group, Amsterdam 1105 BA, The Netherlands
| | - Jasper Rip
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands
| | - Marvin M van Luijn
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ray A, Kale SL, Ramonell RP. Bridging the Gap between Innate and Adaptive Immunity in the Lung: Summary of the Aspen Lung Conference 2022. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2023; 69:266-280. [PMID: 37043828 PMCID: PMC10503303 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2023-0057ws] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Although significant strides have been made in the understanding of pulmonary immunology, much work remains to be done to comprehensively explain coordinated immune responses in the lung. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic only served to highlight the inadequacy of current models of host-pathogen interactions and reinforced the need for current and future generations of immunologists to unravel complex biological questions. As part of that effort, the 64th Annual Thomas L. Petty Aspen Lung Conference was themed "Bridging the Gap between Innate and Adaptive Immunity in the Lung" and featured exciting work from renowned immunologists. This report summarizes the proceedings of the 2022 Aspen Lung Conference, which was convened to discuss the roles played by innate and adaptive immunity in disease pathogenesis, evaluate the interface between the innate and adaptive immune responses, assess the role of adaptive immunity in the development of autoimmunity and autoimmune lung disease, discuss lessons learned from immunologic cancer treatments and approaches, and define new paradigms to harness the immune system to prevent and treat lung diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Ray
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sagar L. Kale
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Richard P. Ramonell
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cantu A, Gutierrez MC, Dong X, Leek C, Anguera M, Lingappan K. Modulation of Recovery from Neonatal Hyperoxic Lung Injury by Sex as a Biological Variable. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.09.552532. [PMID: 37609288 PMCID: PMC10441379 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.09.552532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Recovery from lung injury during the neonatal period requires the orchestration of many biological pathways. The modulation of such pathways can drive the developing lung towards proper repair or persistent maldevelopment that can lead to a disease phenotype. Sex as a biological variable can regulate these pathways differently in the male and female lung exposed to neonatal hyperoxia. In this study, we assessed the contribution of cellular diversity in the male and female neonatal lung following injury. Our objective was to investigate sex and cell-type specific transcriptional changes that drive repair or persistent injury in the neonatal lung and delineate the alterations in the immune-endothelial cell communication networks using single cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNAseq) in a murine model of hyperoxic injury. We generated transcriptional profiles of >55,000 cells isolated from the lungs of postnatal day 1 (PND 1) and postnatal day 21 (PND 21) neonatal male and female C57BL/6 mice exposed to 95% FiO 2 between PND 1-5 (saccular stage of lung development). We show the presence of sex-based differences in the transcriptional states of lung endothelial and immune cells at PND 1 and PND 21. Furthermore, we demonstrate that biological sex significantly influences the response to injury, with a greater number of differentially expressed genes showing sex-specific patterns than those shared between male and female lungs. Pseudotime trajectory analysis highlighted genes needed for lung development that were altered by hyperoxia. Finally, we show intercellular communication between endothelial and immune cells at saccular and alveolar stages of lung development with sex-based biases in the crosstalk and identify novel ligand-receptor pairs. Our findings provide valuable insights into the cell diversity, transcriptional state, developmental trajectory, and cell-cell communication underlying neonatal lung injury, with implications for understanding lung development and possible therapeutic interventions while highlighting the crucial role of sex as a biological variable.
Collapse
|
16
|
Pellegrino R, Paganelli R, Di Iorio A, Bandinelli S, Moretti A, Iolascon G, Sparvieri E, Tarantino D, Ferrucci L. Temporal trends, sex differences, and age-related disease influence in Neutrophil, Lymphocyte count and Neutrophil to Lymphocyte-ratio. Results from InCHIANTI follow-up study. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3111431. [PMID: 37461588 PMCID: PMC10350238 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3111431/v2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Neutrophils and lymphocytes represent the larger percentage of all white bloodcells, they vary with age, with a progressive increase of the ratio in the first years of life, and then tend to remain at similar levels in steady state condition during adult age. Neutrophils to lymphocytes-ratio (NL-ratio) was proposed as an effective and low-cost marker to monitor and predict the evolution of severalclinical conditions. The main objective of the study is to analyze its temporal trend variation, over twenty years' follow-up, according to age, sex, and main clinical diagnosis, in a large representative Italian population. Methods The InCHIANTI study enrolled representative samples from the registry list of two towns in Tuscany, Italy. Baseline data were collected in 1998, and last follow-up visits were made in 2015-18. 1343 out of the 1453 participants enrolled were included, and consented to donate a blood sample. All subjects were assessed and followed for life-style, clinical condition, physical performance, and underwent an instrumental diagnostic session. Results The NL-ratio showed a statistically significant interaction between birth-cohort and time of the study (p-value=0.005). A gender dimorphism was recognized in the neutrophils absolute count and in the NL-ratio. Moreover, in female participants only, those who reported CHF had lower neutrophil-count and NL-ratio; whereas an increase in creatinine clearance was directly associated with NL-ratio. In male subjects, an increase of BMI was inversely associated with both NL-ratio and neutrophils-count during the follow-up; a similar association but in the opposite direction was observed in female participants. Conclusion NL-ratio is a more reliable predictor of healthy aging than absolute lymphocytes and/or neutrophils counts. It is associated with the changes induced by disease, lifestyle, and environmental challenges in the immune system. NL-ratio confirms the gender dimorphism in the occurrence of inflammation-driven diseases, thus providing additional evidence for the necessity of tailored sex-specific measures to prevent and treat such diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaello Pellegrino
- Department of Scientific Research, Campus Ludes, Off-Campus Semmelweis University, 6912 Lugano-Pazzallo, Switzerland
| | - Roberto Paganelli
- Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Di Iorio
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry; University "G. d'Annunzio"; 66100 - ChietiPescara, Italy
| | | | - Antimo Moretti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 - Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Iolascon
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 - Naples, Italy
| | | | - Domiziano Tarantino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Ferrucci
- Longitudinal Studies Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, USA, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pellegrino R, Paganelli R, Iorio AD, Bandinelli S, Moretti A, Iolascon G, Sparvieri E, Tarantino D, Ferrucci L. Temporal trends, sex differences, and age-related disease influence in Neutrophil, Lymphocyte count and Neutrophil to Lymphocyte-ratio. Results from InCHIANTI follow-up study. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3111431. [PMID: 37461588 PMCID: PMC10350238 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3111431/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Background Neutrophils and lymphocytes represent the larger percentage of all white bloodcells, they vary with age, with a progressive increase of the ratio in the first years of life, and then tend to remain at similar levels in steady state condition during adult age. Neutrophils to lymphocytes-ratio (NL-ratio) was proposed as an effective and low-cost marker to monitor and predict the evolution of severalclinical conditions. The main objective of the study is to analyze its temporal trend variation, over twenty years' follow-up, according to age, sex, and main clinical diagnosis, in a large representative Italian population. Methods The InCHIANTI study enrolled representative samples from the registry list of two towns in Tuscany, Italy. Baseline data were collected in 1998, and last follow-up visits were made in 2015-18. 1343 out of the 1453 participants enrolled were included, and consented to donate a blood sample. All subjects were assessed and followed for life-style, clinical condition, physical performance, and underwent an instrumental diagnostic session. Results The NL-ratio showed a statistically significant interaction between birth-cohort and time of the study (p-value=0.005). A gender dimorphism was recognized in the neutrophils absolute count and in the NL-ratio. Moreover, in female participants only, those who reported CHF had lower neutrophil-count and NL-ratio; whereas an increase in creatinine clearance was directly associated with NL-ratio. In male subjects, an increase of BMI was inversely associated with both NL-ratio and neutrophils-count during the follow-up; a similar association but in the opposite direction was observed in female participants. Conclusion NL-ratio is a more reliable predictor of healthy aging than absolute lymphocytes and/or neutrophils counts. It is associated with the changes induced by disease, lifestyle, and environmental challenges in the immune system. NL-ratio confirms the gender dimorphism in the occurrence of inflammation-driven diseases, thus providing additional evidence for the necessity of tailored sex-specific measures to prevent and treat such diseases.
Collapse
|
18
|
Miquel CH, Faz-Lopez B, Guéry JC. Influence of X chromosome in sex-biased autoimmune diseases. J Autoimmun 2023; 137:102992. [PMID: 36641351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2023.102992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Females have better ability to resolve infections, compared to males, but also, a greater susceptibility to develop autoimmunity. Besides the initial interest on the contribution of sex-steroid hormone signaling, the role of genetic factors linked to X chromosome has recently focused much attention. In human and mouse, the number of X chromosomes, rather than sex-steroid hormones, have been found associated with higher risk or susceptibility to develop autoimmunity, particularly rheumatic diseases, such as SLE, Sjögren's syndrome or Scleroderma. For all of these diseases, the Toll-like receptor TLR7 and TLR8, encoded on the same locus in the human Xp, have been demonstrated to be causal in disease development through gene dosage effect or gain of function mutations. During embryonic development in female mammals, one X chromosome is stochastically inactivated to balance X-linked gene expression between males and females, a process known as X chromosome inactivation (XCI). Nevertheless, some genes including immune related genes can escape XCI to variable degree and penetrance, resulting in a bi-allelic expression in some immune cells, such as TLR7. Because tight regulation of TLR expression is necessary for a healthy, self-tolerant immune environment, XCI escape has been proposed as a mechanism contributing to this sexual dimorphism. In this review, we will summarize general mechanisms of XCI, and describe the known escapee's genes in immune cells, the cellular diversity created by such mechanisms and its potential implication in autoimmune diseases, with a particular focus on the X-linked genes and immune cell populations involved in SLE. Whether dysregulated expression of X-linked genes could contribute to the enhanced susceptibility of females to develop such diseases remains to be proven. Shedding lights onto the X-linked genetic mechanisms contributing to modulation of immune cell functions will undoubtedly provide new insights into the intricate mechanisms underlying sex differences in immunity and autoimmunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles-Henry Miquel
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (INFINITY), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS, 31300, France; Arthritis R&D, Neuilly-Sur-Seine, France
| | - Berenice Faz-Lopez
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (INFINITY), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS, 31300, France
| | - Jean-Charles Guéry
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (INFINITY), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS, 31300, France.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Miller RAJ, Williams AP, Kovats S. Sex chromosome complement and sex steroid signaling underlie sex differences in immunity to respiratory virus infection. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1150282. [PMID: 37063266 PMCID: PMC10097973 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1150282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have revealed sex differences in the incidence and morbidity of respiratory virus infection in the human population, and often these observations are correlated with sex differences in the quality or magnitude of the immune response. Sex differences in immunity and morbidity also are observed in animal models of respiratory virus infection, suggesting differential dominance of specific immune mechanisms. Emerging research shows intrinsic sex differences in immune cell transcriptomes, epigenomes, and proteomes that may regulate human immunity when challenged by viral infection. Here, we highlight recent research into the role(s) of sex steroids and X chromosome complement in immune cells and describe how these findings provide insight into immunity during respiratory virus infection. We focus on the regulation of innate and adaptive immune cells by receptors for androgen and estrogens, as well as genes with a propensity to escape X chromosome inactivation. A deeper mechanistic knowledge of these pathways will help us to understand the often significant sex differences in immunity to endemic or pandemic respiratory pathogens such as influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial viruses and pathogenic coronaviruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reegan A. J. Miller
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Abigael P. Williams
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Susan Kovats
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Anesi N, Miquel CH, Laffont S, Guéry JC. The Influence of Sex Hormones and X Chromosome in Immune Responses. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2023; 441:21-59. [PMID: 37695424 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-35139-6_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Males and females differ in their susceptibility to develop autoimmunity and allergy but also in their capacity to cope with infections and cancers. Cellular targets and molecular pathways underlying sexual dimorphism in immunity have started to emerge and appeared multifactorial. It became increasingly clear that sex-linked biological factors have important impact on the development, tissue maintenance and effector function acquisition of distinct immune cell populations, thereby regulating multiple layers of innate or adaptive immunity through distinct mechanisms. This review discusses the recent development in our understanding of the cell-intrinsic actions of biological factors linked to sex, sex hormones and sex chromosome complement, on immune cells, which may account for the sex differences in susceptibility to autoimmune diseases and allergies, and the sex-biased responses in natural immunity and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Anesi
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (INFINITY), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS, 31300, Toulouse, France
| | - Charles-Henry Miquel
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (INFINITY), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS, 31300, Toulouse, France
| | - Sophie Laffont
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (INFINITY), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS, 31300, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Charles Guéry
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (INFINITY), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS, 31300, Toulouse, France.
- INSERM UMR1291, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Purpan, Place du Dr. Baylac, 31024, Toulouse Cedex 3, France.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Gal-Oz ST, Shay T. Genetics of Sex Differences in Immunity. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2023; 441:1-19. [PMID: 37695423 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-35139-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Women have a stronger immune response and a higher frequency of most autoimmune diseases than men. While much of the difference between men and women is due to the effect of gonadal hormones, genetic differences play a major role in the difference between the immune response and disease frequencies in women and men. Here, we focus on the immune differences between the sexes that are not downstream of the gonadal hormones. These differences include the gene content of the sex chromosomes, the inactivation of chromosome X in women, the consequences of non-random X inactivation and escape from inactivation, and the states that are uniquely met by the immune system of women-pregnancy, birth, and breast feeding. While these female-specific states are temporary and involve gonadal hormonal changes, they may leave a long-lasting footprint on the health of women, for example, by fetal cells that remain in the mother's body for decades. We also briefly discuss the immune phenotype of congenital sex chromosomal aberrations and experimental models that enable hormonal and the non-hormonal effects of the sex chromosomes to be disentangled. The increasing human life expectancy lengthens the period during which gonadal hormones levels are reduced in both sexes. A better understanding of the non-hormonal effects of sex chromosomes thus becomes more important for improving the life quality during that period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shani T Gal-Oz
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tal Shay
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Punnanitinont A, Kasperek EM, Kiripolsky J, Zhu C, Miecznikowski JC, Kramer JM. TLR7 agonism accelerates disease in a mouse model of primary Sjögren's syndrome and drives expansion of T-bet + B cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1034336. [PMID: 36591307 PMCID: PMC9799719 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1034336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of exocrine tissue, resulting in loss of tears and saliva. Patients also experience many extra-glandular disease manifestations. Treatment for pSS is palliative, and there are currently no treatments available that target disease etiology. Previous studies in our lab demonstrated that MyD88 is crucial for pSS pathogenesis in the NOD.B10Sn-H2b (NOD.B10) pSS mouse model, although the way in which MyD88-dependent pathways become activated in disease remains unknown. Based on its importance in other autoimmune diseases, we hypothesized that TLR7 activation accelerates pSS pathogenesis. We administered the TLR7 agonist Imiquimod (Imq) or sham treatment to pre-disease NOD.B10 females for 6 weeks. Parallel experiments were performed in age and sex-matched C57BL/10 controls. Imq-treated pSS animals exhibited cervical lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and expansion of TLR7-expressing B cells. Robust lymphocytic infiltration of exocrine tissues, kidney and lung was observed in pSS mice following treatment with Imq. TLR7 agonism also induced salivary hypofunction in pSS mice, which is a hallmark of disease. Anti-nuclear autoantibodies, including Ro (SSA) and La (SSB) were increased in pSS mice following Imq administration. Cervical lymph nodes from Imq-treated NOD.B10 animals demonstrated an increase in the percentage of activated/memory CD4+ T cells. Finally, T-bet+ B cells were expanded in the spleens of Imq-treated pSS mice. Thus, activation of TLR7 accelerates local and systemic disease and promotes expansion of T-bet-expressing B cells in pSS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Achamaporn Punnanitinont
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, The University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Eileen M. Kasperek
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, The University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Jeremy Kiripolsky
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, The University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Chengsong Zhu
- Department of Immunology, Microarray & Immune Phenotyping Core Facility, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Jeffrey C. Miecznikowski
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Health Professions, The University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Jill M. Kramer
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, The University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States,*Correspondence: Jill M. Kramer,
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Garrido-Gil P, Pedrosa MA, Garcia-Garrote M, Pequeño-Valtierra A, Rodríguez-Castro J, García-Souto D, Rodríguez-Pérez AI, Labandeira-Garcia JL. Microglial angiotensin type 2 receptors mediate sex-specific expression of inflammatory cytokines independently of circulating estrogen. Glia 2022; 70:2348-2360. [PMID: 35943203 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
There are sex differences in microglia, which can maintain sex-related gene expression and functional differences in the absence of circulating sex steroids. The angiotensin type 2 (AT2) receptors mediate anti-inflammatory actions in different tissues, including brain. In mice, we performed RT-PCR analysis of microglia isolated from adult brains and RNA scope in situ hybridization from males, females, ovariectomized females, orchiectomized males and brain masculinized females. We also compared wild type and AT2 knockout mice. The expression of AT2 receptors in microglial cells showed sex differences with much higher AT2 mRNA expression in females than in males, and this was not dependent on circulating gonadal hormones, as observed using ovariectomized females, brain masculinized females and orchiectomized males. These results suggest genomic reasons, possibly related to sex chromosome complement, for sex differences in AT2 expression in microglia, as the AT2 receptor gene is located in the X chromosome. Furthermore, sex differences in expression of AT2 receptors were associated to sex differences in microglial expression of key anti-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-10 and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β and interleukin-6. In conclusion, sex differences in microglial AT2 receptor expression appear as a major factor contributing to sex differences in the neuroinflammatory responses beyond the effects of circulating steroids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Garrido-Gil
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology of Parkinson's disease, Research Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Department of Morphological Sciences, IDIS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CiberNed), Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria A Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology of Parkinson's disease, Research Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Department of Morphological Sciences, IDIS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CiberNed), Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Garcia-Garrote
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology of Parkinson's disease, Research Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Department of Morphological Sciences, IDIS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CiberNed), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Pequeño-Valtierra
- Laboratory of Genomes and Disease, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Jorge Rodríguez-Castro
- Laboratory of Genomes and Disease, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Daniel García-Souto
- Laboratory of Genomes and Disease, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ana I Rodríguez-Pérez
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology of Parkinson's disease, Research Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Department of Morphological Sciences, IDIS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CiberNed), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose L Labandeira-Garcia
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology of Parkinson's disease, Research Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Department of Morphological Sciences, IDIS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CiberNed), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Holmes AD, White KA, Pratt MA, Johnson TB, Likhite S, Meyer K, Weimer JM. Sex-split analysis of pathology and motor-behavioral outcomes in a mouse model of CLN8-Batten disease reveals an increased disease burden and trajectory in female Cln8 mnd mice. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:411. [PMID: 36369162 PMCID: PMC9652919 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02564-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CLN8-Batten disease (CLN8 disease) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized phenotypically by progressive deterioration of motor and cognitive abilities, visual symptoms, epileptic seizures, and premature death. Mutations in CLN8 results in characteristic Batten disease symptoms and brain-wide pathology including accumulation of lysosomal storage material, gliosis, and neurodegeneration. Recent investigations of other subforms of Batten disease (CLN1, CLN3, CLN6) have emphasized the influence of biological sex on disease and treatment outcomes; however, little is known about sex differences in the CLN8 subtype. To determine the impact of sex on CLN8 disease burden and progression, we utilized a Cln8mnd mouse model to measure the impact and progression of histopathological and behavioral outcomes between sexes. RESULTS Several notable sex differences were observed in the presentation of brain pathology, including Cln8mnd female mice consistently presenting with greater GFAP+ astrocytosis and CD68+ microgliosis in the somatosensory cortex, ventral posteromedial/ventral posterolateral nuclei of the thalamus, striatum, and hippocampus when compared to Cln8mnd male mice. Furthermore, sex differences in motor-behavioral assessments revealed Cln8mnd female mice experience poorer motor performance and earlier death than their male counterparts. Cln8mnd mice treated with an AAV9-mediated gene therapy were also examined to assess sex differences on therapeutics outcomes, which revealed no appreciable differences between the sexes when responding to the therapy. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our results provide further evidence of biologic sex as a modifier of Batten disease progression and outcome, thus warranting consideration when conducting investigations and monitoring therapeutic impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D. Holmes
- grid.430154.70000 0004 5914 2142Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, 2301 E 60Th St N, Sioux Falls, SD USA ,grid.267169.d0000 0001 2293 1795Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Katherine A. White
- grid.430154.70000 0004 5914 2142Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, 2301 E 60Th St N, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Melissa A. Pratt
- grid.430154.70000 0004 5914 2142Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, 2301 E 60Th St N, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Tyler B. Johnson
- grid.430154.70000 0004 5914 2142Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, 2301 E 60Th St N, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Shibi Likhite
- grid.240344.50000 0004 0392 3476The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Kathrin Meyer
- grid.240344.50000 0004 0392 3476The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH USA ,grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Jill M. Weimer
- grid.430154.70000 0004 5914 2142Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, 2301 E 60Th St N, Sioux Falls, SD USA ,grid.267169.d0000 0001 2293 1795Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Understanding sex differences in physiology and disease requires the identification of the molecular agents that cause phenotypic sex differences. Two groups of such agents are genes located on the sex chromosomes, and gonadal hormones. The former have coherent linkage to chromosomes that form differently in the two sexes under the influence of genomic forces that are not related to reproductive function, whereas the latter have a direct or indirect relationship to reproduction. Evidence published in the past 5 years supports the identification of several agents of sexual differentiation encoded by the X chromosome in mice, including Kdm5c, Kdm6a, Ogt and Xist. These X chromosome agents have wide pleiotropic effects, potentially influencing sex differences in many different tissues, a characteristic shared with the gonadal hormones. The identification of X chromosome agents of sexual differentiation will facilitate understanding of complex intersecting gene pathways underlying sex differences in disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chlamydas S, Markouli M, Strepkos D, Piperi C. Epigenetic mechanisms regulate sex-specific bias in disease manifestations. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:1111-1123. [PMID: 35764820 PMCID: PMC9244100 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02227-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Sex presents a vital determinant of a person’s physiology, anatomy, and development. Recent clinical studies indicate that sex is also involved in the differential manifestation of various diseases, affecting both clinical outcome as well as response to therapy. Genetic and epigenetic changes are implicated in sex bias and regulate disease onset, including the inactivation of the X chromosome as well as sex chromosome aneuploidy. The differential expression of X-linked genes, along with the presence of sex-specific hormones, exhibits a significant impact on immune system function. Several studies have revealed differences between the two sexes in response to infections, including respiratory diseases and COVID-19 infection, autoimmune disorders, liver fibrosis, neuropsychiatric diseases, and cancer susceptibility, which can be explained by sex-biased immune responses. In the present review, we explore the input of genetic and epigenetic interplay in the sex bias underlying disease manifestation and discuss their effects along with sex hormones on disease development and progression, aiming to reveal potential new therapeutic targets. Key messages Sex is involved in the differential manifestation of various diseases. Epigenetic modifications influence X-linked gene expression, affecting immune response to infections, including COVID-19. Epigenetic mechanisms are responsible for the sex bias observed in several respiratory and autoimmune disorders, liver fibrosis, neuropsychiatric diseases, and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarantis Chlamydas
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 M. Asias Street Bldg 16, 11527, Athens, Greece.,Olink Proteomics, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mariam Markouli
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 M. Asias Street Bldg 16, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Strepkos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 M. Asias Street Bldg 16, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 M. Asias Street Bldg 16, 11527, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Dossin F, Heard E. The Molecular and Nuclear Dynamics of X-Chromosome Inactivation. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2022; 14:a040196. [PMID: 34312245 PMCID: PMC9121902 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a040196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In female eutherian mammals, dosage compensation of X-linked gene expression is achieved during development through transcriptional silencing of one of the two X chromosomes. Following X chromosome inactivation (XCI), the inactive X chromosome remains faithfully silenced throughout somatic cell divisions. XCI is dependent on Xist, a long noncoding RNA that coats and silences the X chromosome from which it is transcribed. Xist coating triggers a cascade of chromosome-wide changes occurring at the levels of transcription, chromatin composition, chromosome structure, and spatial organization within the nucleus. XCI has emerged as a paradigm for the study of such crucial nuclear processes and the dissection of their functional interplay. In the past decade, the advent of tools to characterize and perturb these processes have provided an unprecedented understanding into their roles during XCI. The mechanisms orchestrating the initiation of XCI as well as its maintenance are thus being unraveled, although many questions still remain. Here, we introduce key aspects of the XCI process and review the recent discoveries about its molecular basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- François Dossin
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Director's Unit, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Edith Heard
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Director's Unit, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Brian BF, Sauer ML, Greene JT, Senevirathne SE, Lindstedt AJ, Funk OL, Ruis BL, Ramirez LA, Auger JL, Swanson WL, Nunez MG, Moriarity BS, Lowell CA, Binstadt BA, Freedman TS. A dominant function of LynB kinase in preventing autoimmunity. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabj5227. [PMID: 35452291 PMCID: PMC9032976 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abj5227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Here, we report that the LynB splice variant of the Src-family kinase Lyn exerts a dominant immunosuppressive function in vivo, whereas the LynA isoform is uniquely required to restrain autoimmunity in female mice. We used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to constrain lyn splicing and expression, generating single-isoform LynA knockout (LynAKO) or LynBKO mice. Autoimmune disease in total LynKO mice is characterized by production of antinuclear antibodies, glomerulonephritis, impaired B cell development, and overabundance of activated B cells and proinflammatory myeloid cells. Expression of LynA or LynB alone uncoupled the developmental phenotype from the autoimmune disease: B cell transitional populations were restored, but myeloid cells and differentiated B cells were dysregulated. These changes were isoform-specific, sexually dimorphic, and distinct from the complete LynKO. Despite the apparent differences in disease etiology and penetrance, loss of either LynA or LynB had the potential to induce severe autoimmune disease with parallels to human systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ben F. Brian
- Graduate Program in Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Monica L. Sauer
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Joseph T. Greene
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - S. Erandika Senevirathne
- Graduate Program in Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Anders J. Lindstedt
- Graduate Program in Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Olivia L. Funk
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Brian L. Ruis
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Luis A. Ramirez
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Auger
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Whitney L. Swanson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Myra G. Nunez
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Branden S. Moriarity
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Clifford A. Lowell
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Bryce A. Binstadt
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Tanya S. Freedman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Preferential X Chromosome Inactivation as a Mechanism to Explain Female Preponderance in Myasthenia Gravis. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040696. [PMID: 35456502 PMCID: PMC9031138 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neuromuscular autoimmune disease characterized by prevalence in young women (3:1). Several mechanisms proposed as explanations for gender bias, including skewed X chromosome inactivation (XCI) and dosage or sex hormones, are often involved in the development of autoimmunity. The skewed XCI pattern can lead to an unbalanced expression of some X-linked genes, as observed in several autoimmune disorders characterized by female predominance. No data are yet available regarding XCI and MG. We hypothesize that the preferential XCI pattern may contribute to the female bias observed in the onset of MG, especially among younger women. XCI analysis was performed on blood samples of 284 women between the ages of 20 and 82. XCI was tested using the Human Androgen Receptor Assay (HUMARA). XCI patterns were classified as random (XCI < 75%) and preferential (XCI ≥ 75%). In 121 informative patients, the frequency of skewed XCI patterns was 47%, significantly higher than in healthy controls (17%; p ≤ 0.00001). Interestingly, the phenomenon was observed mainly in younger patients (<45 years; p ≤ 0.00001). Furthermore, considering the XCI pattern and the other clinical characteristics of patients, no significant differences were found. In conclusion, we observed preferential XCI in MG female patients, suggesting its potential role in the aetiology of MG, as observed in other autoimmune diseases in women.
Collapse
|
30
|
Gerussi A, Caime C, Binatti E, Cristoferi L, Asselta R, Gershwin EM, Invernizzi P. X marks the spot in autoimmunity. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:429-437. [PMID: 35349778 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2060203] [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: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autoimmune diseases mostly affect females. Besides hormones, several factors related to chromosome X have been called in action to explain this sex predominance. AREAS COVERED This paper provides an overview on the role of chromosome X (chrX) in explaining why females have higher susceptibility to autoimmunity. The work outlines some essential concepts regarding chrX inactivation, escape from chrX inactivation and the evolutionary history of chrX. In addition, we will discuss the concept of gene escape in immune cells, with examples related to specific X-linked genes and autoimmune diseases. EXPERT OPINION There is growing evidence that many genes present on chrX escape inactivation, and some of them have significant immune-mediated functions. In immune cells of female individuals the escape of these genes is not constant, but the knowledge of the mechanisms controlling this plasticity are not completely understood. Future studies aimed at the characterization of these modifications at single-cell resolution, together with conformational 3D studies of the inactive X chromosome, will hopefully help to fill this gap of knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Gerussi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Chiara Caime
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Eleonora Binatti
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Laura Cristoferi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Rosanna Asselta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Eric M Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
She C, Yang Y, Zang B, Yao Y, Liu Q, Leung PSC, Liu B. Effect of LncRNA XIST on Immune Cells of Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:816433. [PMID: 35309298 PMCID: PMC8931309 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.816433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease with significant gender difference. X chromosome inactivation (XCI) plays important roles in susceptibility to diseases between genders. This work focuses on the differences of LncRNA XIST in several defined immune cells populations as well as its effects on naive CD4+ T cells proliferation and differentiation in patients with PBC. Methods NKs, B cells, CD4+ T, and CD8+ T cells were separated by MicroBeads from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of PBC patients and healthy control (HC). The expression levels of LncRNA XIST in these immune cells were quantified by qRT-PCR and their subcellular localized analyzed by FISH. Lentivirus were used to interfere the expression of LncRNA XIST, and CCK8 was used to detect the proliferation of naive CD4+ T cells in PBC patients. Finally, naive CD4+ T cells were co-cultured with the bile duct epithelial cells (BECs), and the effects of LncRNA XIST on the typing of naive CD4+ T cells and related cytokines were determined by qRT-PCR and ELISA. Results The expression levels of LncRNA XIST in NKs and CD4+ T cells in PBC patients were significantly higher than those in HC, and were primarily located at the nucleus. LncRNA XIST could promote the proliferation of naive CD4+ T cells. When naive CD4+ T cells were co-cultured with BECs, the expressions of IFN-γ, IL-17, T-bet and RORγt in naive CD4+ T cells were decreased. Conclusion LncRNA XIST was associated with lymphocyte abnormalities in patients with PBC. The high expression of LncRNA XIST could stimulate proliferation and differentiation of naive CD4+ T cells, which might account for the high occurrence of PBC in female.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui She
- Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yifei Yang
- Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Bo Zang
- Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuan Yao
- Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qixuan Liu
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health (SPH) Department, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Patrick S. C. Leung
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Liu,
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Morrison TA, Hudson WH, Chisolm DA, Kanno Y, Shih HY, Ahmed R, Henao-Mejia J, Hafner M, O'Shea JJ. Evolving Views of Long Noncoding RNAs and Epigenomic Control of Lymphocyte State and Memory. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2022; 14:a037952. [PMID: 34001528 PMCID: PMC8725624 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a037952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Not simply an attribute of the adaptive immune system, immunological memory can be viewed on multiple levels. Accordingly, the molecular basis of memory comprises multiple mechanisms. The advent of new sequencing technologies has greatly enhanced the understanding of gene regulation and lymphocyte specification, and improved measurement of chromatin states affords new insights into the epigenomic and transcriptomic programs that underlie memory. Beyond canonical genes, the involvement of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is becoming increasingly apparent, and it appears that there are more than two to three times as many lncRNAs as protein-coding genes. lncRNAs can directly interact with DNA, RNA, and proteins, and a single lncRNA can contain multiple modular domains and thus interact with different classes of molecules. Yet, most lncRNAs have not been tested for function, and even fewer knockout mice have been generated. It is therefore timely to consider new potential mechanisms that may contribute to immune memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tasha A Morrison
- Lymphocyte Cell Biology Section, Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - William H Hudson
- Emory Vaccine Center and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Danielle A Chisolm
- Lymphocyte Cell Biology Section, Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Yuka Kanno
- Lymphocyte Cell Biology Section, Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Han-Yu Shih
- Neuro-Immune Regulome Unit, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Rafi Ahmed
- Emory Vaccine Center and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Jorge Henao-Mejia
- Institute for Immunology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Markus Hafner
- Laboratory of Muscle Stem Cells and Gene Regulation, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - John J O'Shea
- Lymphocyte Cell Biology Section, Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Li CM, Chen Z. Autoimmunity as an Etiological Factor of Cancer: The Transformative Potential of Chronic Type 2 Inflammation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:664305. [PMID: 34235145 PMCID: PMC8255631 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.664305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent epidemiological studies have found an alarming trend of increased cancer incidence in adults younger than 50 years of age and projected a substantial rise in cancer incidence over the next 10 years in this age group. This trend was exemplified in the incidence of non-cardia gastric cancer and its disproportionate impact on non-Hispanic white females under the age of 50. The trend is concurrent with the increasing incidence of autoimmune diseases in industrialized countries, suggesting a causal link between the two. While autoimmunity has been suspected to be a risk factor for some cancers, the exact mechanisms underlying the connection between autoimmunity and cancer remain unclear and are often controversial. The link has been attributed to several mediators such as immune suppression, infection, diet, environment, or, perhaps most plausibly, chronic inflammation because of its well-recognized role in tumorigenesis. In that regard, autoimmune conditions are common causes of chronic inflammation and may trigger repetitive cycles of antigen-specific cell damage, tissue regeneration, and wound healing. Illustrating the connection between autoimmune diseases and cancer are patients who have an increased risk of cancer development associated with genetically predisposed insufficiency of cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4), a prototypical immune checkpoint against autoimmunity and one of the main targets of cancer immune therapy. The tumorigenic process triggered by CTLA4 insufficiency has been shown in a mouse model to be dependent on the type 2 cytokines interleukin-4 (IL4) and interleukin-13 (IL13). In this type 2 inflammatory milieu, crosstalk with type 2 immune cells may initiate epigenetic reprogramming of epithelial cells, leading to a metaplastic differentiation and eventually malignant transformation even in the absence of classical oncogenic mutations. Those findings complement a large body of evidence for type 1, type 3, or other inflammatory mediators in inflammatory tumorigenesis. This review addresses the potential of autoimmunity as a causal factor for tumorigenesis, the underlying inflammatory mechanisms that may vary depending on host-environment variations, and implications to cancer prevention and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris M Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Zhibin Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Fradico JRB, Campi-Azevedo AC, Peruhype-Magalhães V, Coelho-Dos-Reis JGA, Faria ES, Drumond BP, de Rezende IM, Almeida JF, da Silva RB, Gusmão JD, Arcoverde Medeiros EL, Rodrigues RCM, Ribeiro JGL, Pereira MA, Silva MVF, Rocha MLC, Adelino TER, de Melo Iani FC, Pereira GC, Fernandes EG, Auxiliadora-Martins M, Valim V, de Souza Gomes M, Amaral LR, Romano APM, Ramos DG, Carvalho SMD, Fantinato FFST, do Carmo Said RF, Teixeira-Carvalho A, Martins-Filho OA. CCL3, CCL5, IL-15, IL-1Ra and VEGF compose a reliable algorithm to discriminate classes of adverse events following 17DD-YF primary vaccination according to cause-specific definitions. Vaccine 2021; 39:4359-4372. [PMID: 34147295 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.05.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, a range of serum biomarkers were quantified in suspected cases of adverse events following YF immunization (YEL-AEFI) to propose a reliable laboratorial algorithm to discriminate confirmed YEL-AEFI ("A1" class) from cases with other illnesses ("C" class). Our findings demonstrated that increased levels of CXCL8, CCL2, CXCL10, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were observed in YEL-AEFI ("A1" and "C" classes) as compared to primary vaccines without YEL-AEFI [PV(day 3-28)] and reference range (RR) controls. Notably, increased levels of CCL3, CCL4, CCL2, CCL5, IL-1β, IL-15, IL-1Ra and G-CSF were found in "A1" as compared to "C" class. Venn diagrams analysis allowed the pre-selection of biomarkers for further analysis of performance indices. Data demonstrated that CCL3, CCL5, IL-15 and IL-1Ra presented high global accuracy (AUC = 1.00) to discriminate "A1" from "C". Decision tree was proposed with a reliable algorithm to discriminate YEL-AEFI cases according to cause-specific definitions with outstanding overall accuracy (91%). CCL3, CCL5, IL-15 and IL-1Ra appears as root attributes to identify "A1" followed by VEGF as branch nodes to discriminate Wild Type YFV infection ("C(WT-YFV)") from cases with other illnesses ("C*"). Together, these results demonstrated the applicability of serum biomarker measurements as putative parameters towards the establishment of accurate laboratorial tools for complementary differential diagnosis of YEL-AEFI cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordana Rodrigues Barbosa Fradico
- Grupo Integrado de Pesquisas em Biomarcadores, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ-Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - Ana Carolina Campi-Azevedo
- Grupo Integrado de Pesquisas em Biomarcadores, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ-Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa Peruhype-Magalhães
- Grupo Integrado de Pesquisas em Biomarcadores, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ-Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jordana Grazziela Alves Coelho-Dos-Reis
- Grupo Integrado de Pesquisas em Biomarcadores, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ-Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Laboratório de Virologia Básica e Aplicada, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Elaine Spezialli Faria
- Grupo Integrado de Pesquisas em Biomarcadores, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ-Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Betânia Paiva Drumond
- Laboratório de Vírus, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Izabela Maurício de Rezende
- Laboratório de Vírus, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Maira Alves Pereira
- Laboratório Central de Saúde Pública, Fundação Ezequiel Dias - FUNED, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Marília Lima Cruz Rocha
- Laboratório Central de Saúde Pública, Fundação Ezequiel Dias - FUNED, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | - Glauco Carvalho Pereira
- Laboratório Central de Saúde Pública, Fundação Ezequiel Dias - FUNED, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Eder Gatti Fernandes
- Divisão de Imunização, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica Professor Alexandre Vranjac. Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças. Secretaria de Estado de Saúde de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Auxiliadora-Martins
- Hospital das Clínicas - HC, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto - FMRP, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Valéria Valim
- Divisão de Reumatologia, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - UFES, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Matheus de Souza Gomes
- Laboratório de Bioinformática e Análises Moleculares, Rede Multidisciplinar de Pesquisa, Ciência e Tecnologia, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Campus Patos de Minas, MG, Brazil
| | - Laurence Rodrigues Amaral
- Laboratório de Bioinformática e Análises Moleculares, Rede Multidisciplinar de Pesquisa, Ciência e Tecnologia, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Campus Patos de Minas, MG, Brazil
| | - Alessandro Pecego Martins Romano
- Departamento de Imunização e Vigilância das Doenças Transmissíveis, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Daniel Garkauskas Ramos
- Departamento de Imunização e Vigilância das Doenças Transmissíveis, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Sandra Maria Deotti Carvalho
- Departamento de Imunização e Vigilância das Doenças Transmissíveis, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | | | - Rodrigo Fabiano do Carmo Said
- Secretaria de Estado de Saúde de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Departamento de Imunização e Vigilância das Doenças Transmissíveis, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Andréa Teixeira-Carvalho
- Grupo Integrado de Pesquisas em Biomarcadores, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ-Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Olindo Assis Martins-Filho
- Grupo Integrado de Pesquisas em Biomarcadores, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ-Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Moscatelli M, Rougeulle C. [Latest insights on X-chromosome inactivation: When general principles should be revisited]. Med Sci (Paris) 2021; 37:152-158. [PMID: 33591258 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2020278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The inactivation of one of the two X chromosomes of female mammals is a vital process and a paradigm for epigenetic regulations. X-inactivation is triggered, early during embryo development, by the accumulation of a peculiar noncoding RNA, XIST, which interacts with a plethora of molecular complexes and ultimately protects the coated chromosome from the expression machinery. Once installed, the inactive state is locked by multiple layers of chromatin modifications, ensuring its stable perpetuation across cell divisions. However, recent discoveries made in various model organisms urge us to revisit some of the general principles of the X-inactivation process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Moscatelli
- Université de Paris, Épigénétique et Destin Cellulaire, CNRS, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Claire Rougeulle
- Université de Paris, Épigénétique et Destin Cellulaire, CNRS, F-75006 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Forsyth KS, Anguera MC. Time to get ill: the intersection of viral infections, sex, and the X chromosome. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 19:62-72. [PMID: 33073073 PMCID: PMC7553007 DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2020.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Females have more robust immune responses than males, and viral infections are more severe for males. Hormones and genetic sex, namely the X chromosome, influence sex differences with immune responses. Here, we review recent findings underlying sexual dimorphism of disease susceptibility for two prevalent viral infections, influenza and SARS-CoV-2, which exhibit male-biased disease severity. Viral infections are proposed to be an initiating event for autoimmunity, which exhibits a female bias. We also review recent work elucidating the epigenetic and genetic contribution of X-Chromosome Inactivation maintenance, and X-linked gene expression, for the autoimmune disorder Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and highlight the complex considerations required for identifying underlying hormonal and genetic contributions responsible for sex differences in immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Forsyth
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, United States
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Navarro-Cobos MJ, Balaton BP, Brown CJ. Genes that escape from X-chromosome inactivation: Potential contributors to Klinefelter syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2020; 184:226-238. [PMID: 32441398 PMCID: PMC7384012 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
One of the two X chromosomes in females is epigenetically inactivated, thereby compensating for the dosage difference in X-linked genes between XX females and XY males. Not all X-linked genes are completely inactivated, however, with 12% of genes escaping X chromosome inactivation and another 15% of genes varying in their X chromosome inactivation status across individuals, tissues or cells. Expression of these genes from the second and otherwise inactive X chromosome may underlie sex differences between males and females, and feature in many of the symptoms of XXY Klinefelter males, who have both an inactive X and a Y chromosome. We review the approaches used to identify genes that escape from X-chromosome inactivation and discuss the nature of their sex-biased expression. These genes are enriched on the short arm of the X chromosome, and, in addition to genes in the pseudoautosomal regions, include genes with and without Y-chromosomal counterparts. We highlight candidate escape genes for some of the features of Klinefelter syndrome and discuss our current understanding of the mechanisms underlying silencing and escape on the X chromosome as well as additional differences between the X in males and females that may contribute to Klinefelter syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jose Navarro-Cobos
- Department of Medical Genetics, Molecular Epigenetics Group, Life Sciences Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Bradley P Balaton
- Department of Medical Genetics, Molecular Epigenetics Group, Life Sciences Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Carolyn J Brown
- Department of Medical Genetics, Molecular Epigenetics Group, Life Sciences Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Gemmati D, Bramanti B, Serino ML, Secchiero P, Zauli G, Tisato V. COVID-19 and Individual Genetic Susceptibility/Receptivity: Role of ACE1/ACE2 Genes, Immunity, Inflammation and Coagulation. Might the Double X-chromosome in Females Be Protective against SARS-CoV-2 Compared to the Single X-Chromosome in Males? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3474. [PMID: 32423094 PMCID: PMC7278991 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) from a new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) was recognized in the city of Wuhan, China. Rapidly, it became an epidemic in China and has now spread throughout the world reaching pandemic proportions. High mortality rates characterize SARS-CoV-2 disease (COVID-19), which mainly affects the elderly, causing unrestrained cytokines-storm and subsequent pulmonary shutdown, also suspected micro thromboembolism events. At the present time, no specific and dedicated treatments, nor approved vaccines, are available, though very promising data come from the use of anti-inflammatory, anti-malaria, and anti-coagulant drugs. In addition, it seems that males are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 than females, with males 65% more likely to die from the infection than females. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Chinese scientists show that of all cases about 1.7% of women who contract the virus will die compared with 2.8% of men, and data from Hong Kong hospitals state that 32% of male and 15% of female COVID-19 patients required intensive care or died. On the other hand, the long-term fallout of coronavirus may be worse for women than for men due to social and psychosocial reasons. Regardless of sex- or gender-biased data obtained from WHO and those gathered from sometimes controversial scientific journals, some central points should be considered. Firstly, SARS-CoV-2 has a strong interaction with the human ACE2 receptor, which plays an essential role in cell entry together with transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2); it is interesting to note that the ACE2 gene lays on the X-chromosome, thus allowing females to be potentially heterozygous and differently assorted compared to men who are definitely hemizygous. Secondly, the higher ACE2 expression rate in females, though controversial, might ascribe them the worst prognosis, in contrast with worldwide epidemiological data. Finally, several genes involved in inflammation are located on the X-chromosome, which also contains high number of immune-related genes responsible for innate and adaptive immune responses to infection. Other genes, out from the RAS-pathway, might directly or indirectly impact on the ACE1/ACE2 balance by influencing its main actors (e.g., ABO locus, SRY, SOX3, ADAM17). Unexpectedly, the higher levels of ACE2 or ACE1/ACE2 rebalancing might improve the outcome of COVID-19 in both sexes by reducing inflammation, thrombosis, and death. Moreover, X-heterozygous females might also activate a mosaic advantage and show more pronounced sex-related differences resulting in a sex dimorphism, further favoring them in counteracting the progression of the SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donato Gemmati
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and Centre Haemostasis & Thrombosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- University Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Barbara Bramanti
- University Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Department of Biomedical & Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Serino
- Department of Medical Sciences and Centre Haemostasis & Thrombosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Paola Secchiero
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (P.S.); (G.Z.); (V.T.)
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (P.S.); (G.Z.); (V.T.)
| | - Veronica Tisato
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (P.S.); (G.Z.); (V.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Bansal P, Kondaveeti Y, Pinter SF. Forged by DXZ4, FIRRE, and ICCE: How Tandem Repeats Shape the Active and Inactive X Chromosome. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 7:328. [PMID: 32076600 PMCID: PMC6985041 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent efforts in mapping spatial genome organization have revealed three evocative and conserved structural features of the inactive X in female mammals. First, the chromosomal conformation of the inactive X reveals a loss of topologically associated domains (TADs) present on the active X. Second, the macrosatellite DXZ4 emerges as a singular boundary that suppresses physical interactions between two large TAD-depleted "megadomains." Third, DXZ4 reaches across several megabases to form "superloops" with two other X-linked tandem repeats, FIRRE and ICCE, which also loop to each other. Although all three structural features are conserved across rodents and primates, deletion of mouse and human orthologs of DXZ4 and FIRRE from the inactive X have revealed limited impact on X chromosome inactivation (XCI) and escape in vitro. In contrast, loss of Xist or SMCHD1 have been shown to impair TAD erasure and gene silencing on the inactive X. In this perspective, we summarize these results in the context of new research describing disruption of X-linked tandem repeats in vivo, and discuss their possible molecular roles through the lens of evolutionary conservation and clinical genetics. As a null hypothesis, we consider whether the conservation of some structural features on the inactive X may reflect selection for X-linked tandem repeats on account of necessary cis- and trans-regulatory roles they may play on the active X, rather than the inactive X. Additional hypotheses invoking a role for X-linked tandem repeats on X reactivation, for example in the germline or totipotency, remain to be assessed in multiple developmental models spanning mammalian evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prakhar Bansal
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, UCONN Health, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Yuvabharath Kondaveeti
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, UCONN Health, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Stefan F. Pinter
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, UCONN Health, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Syrett CM, Sierra I, Beethem ZT, Dubin AH, Anguera MC. Loss of epigenetic modifications on the inactive X chromosome and sex-biased gene expression profiles in B cells from NZB/W F1 mice with lupus-like disease. J Autoimmun 2019; 107:102357. [PMID: 31780316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the female-bias in autoimmunity are poorly understood. The contribution of genetic and epigenetic factors from the inactive X chromosome (Xi) are beginning to emerge as critical mediators of autoimmunity in females. Here, we ask how epigenetic features of the Xi change during disease development in B cells from the NZB/W F1 spontaneous mouse model of lupus, which is female-biased. We find that Xist RNA becomes increasingly mislocalized from the Xi with disease onset. While NZB/W F1 naïve B cells have H3K27me3 foci on the Xi, which are missing from healthy C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice, these foci are progressively lost in stimulated B cells during disease. Using single-molecule RNA FISH, we show that the X-linked gene Tlr7 is biallelically expressed in ~20% of NZB/W F1 B cells, and that the amount of biallelic expression does not change with disease. We also present sex-specific gene expression profiles for diseased NZB/W F1 B cells, and find female-specific upregulation of 20 genes, including the autoimmunity-related genes Cxcl13, Msr1, Igj, and Prdm1. Together, these studies provide important insight into the loss of epigenetic modifications from the Xi and changes with gene expression in a mouse model of female-biased SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille M Syrett
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Isabel Sierra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Zachary T Beethem
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aimee H Dubin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Fang H, Disteche CM, Berletch JB. X Inactivation and Escape: Epigenetic and Structural Features. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:219. [PMID: 31632970 PMCID: PMC6779695 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
X inactivation represents a complex multi-layer epigenetic mechanism that profoundly modifies chromatin composition and structure of one X chromosome in females. The heterochromatic inactive X chromosome adopts a unique 3D bipartite structure and a location close to the nuclear periphery or the nucleolus. X-linked lncRNA loci and their transcripts play important roles in the recruitment of proteins that catalyze chromatin and DNA modifications for silencing, as well as in the control of chromatin condensation and location of the inactive X chromosome. A subset of genes escapes X inactivation, raising questions about mechanisms that preserve their expression despite being embedded within heterochromatin. Escape gene expression differs between males and females, which can lead to physiological sex differences. We review recent studies that emphasize challenges in understanding the role of lncRNAs in the control of epigenetic modifications, structural features and nuclear positioning of the inactive X chromosome. Second, we highlight new findings about the distribution of genes that escape X inactivation based on single cell studies, and discuss the roles of escape genes in eliciting sex differences in health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- He Fang
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Christine M. Disteche
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Joel B. Berletch
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Martin GV, Kanaan SB, Hemon MF, Azzouz DF, El Haddad M, Balandraud N, Mignon-Ravix C, Picard C, Arnoux F, Martin M, Roudier J, Auger I, Lambert NC. Mosaicism of XX and XXY cells accounts for high copy number of Toll like Receptor 7 and 8 genes in peripheral blood of men with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12880. [PMID: 31501466 PMCID: PMC6733859 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49309-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The X chromosome, hemizygous in males, contains numerous genes important to immunological and hormonal function. Alterations in X-linked gene dosage are suspected to contribute to female predominance in autoimmunity. A powerful example of X-linked dosage involvement comes from the BXSB murine lupus model, where the duplication of the X-linked Toll-Like Receptor 7 (Tlr7) gene aggravates autoimmunity in male mice. Such alterations are possible in men with autoimmune diseases. Here we showed that a quarter to a third of men with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) had significantly increased copy numbers (CN) of TLR7 gene and its paralog TLR8. Patients with high CN had an upregulated pro-inflammatory JNK/p38 signaling pathway. By fluorescence in situ hybridization, we further demonstrated that the increase in X-linked genes CN was due to the presence of an extra X chromosome in some cells. Men with RA had a significant cellular mosaicism of female (46,XX) and/or Klinefelter (47,XXY) cells among male (46,XY) cells, reaching up to 1.4% in peripheral blood. Our results present a new potential trigger for RA in men and opens a new field of investigation particularly relevant for gender-biased autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel V Martin
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Sami B Kanaan
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Marie F Hemon
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.,Arthritis R&D, Neuilly-Sur-Seine, France
| | - Doua F Azzouz
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Marina El Haddad
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Nathalie Balandraud
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.,Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Sainte Marguerite, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Cécile Mignon-Ravix
- Arthritis R&D, Neuilly-Sur-Seine, France.,Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, Marseille, France
| | - Christophe Picard
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR7268 (ADES), "Biologie des Groupes Sanguin", Marseille, France.,Etablissement Français du Sang (EFS), Marseille, France
| | - Fanny Arnoux
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Marielle Martin
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Jean Roudier
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.,Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Sainte Marguerite, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Isabelle Auger
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Nathalie C Lambert
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|