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Longo V, Parrinello D, Longo A, Parisi MG, Parrinello N, Colombo P, Cammarata M. The conservation and diversity of ascidian cells and molecules involved in the inflammatory reaction: The Ciona robusta model. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 119:384-396. [PMID: 34687879 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2021.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Ascidians are marine invertebrate chordates belonging to the earliest branch (Tunicata) in the chordate phylum, therefore, they are of interest for studying the evolution of immune systems. Due to the known genome, the non-colonial Ciona robusta, previously considered to be C. intestinalis type A, is a model species for the study of inflammatory response. The internal defense of ascidians mainly relies on hemocytes circulating in the hemolymph and pharynx. Hemocytes can be in vivo challenged by LPS injection and various granulocyte and vacuolated cell populations differentiated to produce and release inflammatory factors. Molecular biology and gene expression studies revealed complex defense mechanisms involving different inflammatory hemocytes. Furthermore, cloning procedures allowed sequence analyses and molecular studies disclose immune-related gene families including TOLL-like receptors, galectins, C-type lectins, collectins, interlectins, pentraxine-like, peroxinectins, complement factors-like, TNFα-like, IL-17-like, TGF-like, MIF-like. These genes are promptly upregulated by the inflammatory stimulus and show a time course of transcription similar to each other. Domains sequence similarity and phylogenetic relationships with the vertebrate counterparts are shedding some light on immune-related gene evolution. Selective bioassays as well as bioinformatic approaches have allowed the characterization of antimicrobial peptides and the identification of post transcriptional molecular mechanisms able of influencing dynamics of gene regulation are described. In synthesis, the purpose of this article is to further explore the topic of hemocyte and molecules related to internal defence of ascidians involved in the inflammatory reaction, as well as to discuss current and future study options through a detailed literature review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Longo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Longo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Nicolò Parrinello
- Department of Earth and Marine Science, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Paolo Colombo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Matteo Cammarata
- Department of Earth and Marine Science, University of Palermo, Italy
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Longo V, Longo A, Martorana A, Lauria A, Augello G, Azzolina A, Cervello M, Colombo P. Identification of an LPS-Induced Chemo-Attractive Peptide from Ciona robusta. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18040209. [PMID: 32290587 PMCID: PMC7230320 DOI: 10.3390/md18040209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Previously published work has demonstrated that the LPS injection of Ciona robusta leads to the overexpression of a truncated form of an immune-related mRNA (C8short) by means of Ciona robusta (CR) alternative polyadenylation (APA) (CR-APA). Methods: The 3D structure of the C8short-derived Ciona robusta chemo-attractive peptide (CrCP) was evaluated by homology modeling. The biological activity of the CrCP was studied in vitro using a primary human dermal cell line (HuDe). Real-Time PCR was used to investigate the expression levels of genes involved in cell motility. NF-κB signaling was studied by western blotting. Results: In silico modeling showed that CrCP displayed structural characteristics already reported for a short domain of the vertebrate CRK gene, suggesting its possible involvement in cell migration mechanisms. In vitro assays demonstrated that CrCP was capable of inducing the motility of HuDe cells in both wound healing and chemo-attractive experiments. qPCR demonstrated the capability of CrCP to modulate the expression of the matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) and E-cadherin genes. Finally, western blot analysis demonstrated that treatment with CrCP induced activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. Conclusion: Our results describe the characterization of the 3D structure and chemo-attractive activity of an LPS-induced CrCP peptide from Ciona robusta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Longo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (V.L.); (A.L.); (G.A.); (A.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Alessandra Longo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (V.L.); (A.L.); (G.A.); (A.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Annamaria Martorana
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche “STEBICEF”, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.); (A.L.)
| | - Antonino Lauria
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche “STEBICEF”, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.); (A.L.)
| | - Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (V.L.); (A.L.); (G.A.); (A.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Antonina Azzolina
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (V.L.); (A.L.); (G.A.); (A.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (V.L.); (A.L.); (G.A.); (A.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Paolo Colombo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (V.L.); (A.L.); (G.A.); (A.A.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-91-6809535
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Chiaramonte M, Inguglia L, Vazzana M, Deidun A, Arizza V. Stress and immune response to bacterial LPS in the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus (Lamarck, 1816). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 92:384-394. [PMID: 31220574 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The immune system of the sea urchin species Paracentrotus lividus is highly complex and, as yet, poorly understood. P. lividus coelomocytes mediate immune response through phagocytosis and encapsulation of non-self particles, in addition to the production of antimicrobial molecules. Despite this understanding, details of exactly how these processes occur and the mechanisms which drive them are still in need of clarification. In this study, we show how the bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) is able to induce a stress response which increases the levels of the heat shock proteins HSP70 and HSP90 only a few hours after treatment. This study also shows that LPS treatment increases the expression of the β-thymosin-derivated protein paracentrin, the precursor of antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Chiaramonte
- Dept. STEBICEF, Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 18, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luigi Inguglia
- Dept. STEBICEF, Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 18, 90123, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Mirella Vazzana
- Dept. STEBICEF, Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 18, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alan Deidun
- Dept. of Geosciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD, 2080, Malta
| | - Vincenzo Arizza
- Dept. STEBICEF, Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 18, 90123, Palermo, Italy
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Franchi N, Ballarin L. Immunity in Protochordates: The Tunicate Perspective. Front Immunol 2017; 8:674. [PMID: 28649250 PMCID: PMC5465252 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tunicates are the closest relatives of vertebrates, and their peculiar phylogenetic position explains the increasing interest toward tunicate immunobiology. They are filter-feeding organisms, and this greatly influences their defense strategies. The majority of the studies on tunicate immunity were carried out in ascidians. The tunic acts as a first barrier against pathogens and parasites. In addition, the oral siphon and the pharynx represent two major, highly vascularized, immune organs, where circulating hemocytes can sense non-self material and trigger immune responses that, usually, lead to inflammation and phagocytosis. Inflammation involves the recruitment of circulating cytotoxic, phenoloxidase (PO)-containing cells in the infected area, where they degranulate as a consequence of non-self recognition and release cytokines, complement factors, and the enzyme PO. The latter, acting on polyphenol substrata, produces cytotoxic quinones, which polymerize to melanin, and reactive oxygen species, which induce oxidative stress. Both the alternative and the lectin pathways of complement activation converge to activate C3: C3a and C3b are involved in the recruitment of hemocytes and in the opsonization of foreign materials, respectively. The interaction of circulating professional phagocytes with potentially pathogenic foreign material can be direct or mediated by opsonins, either complement dependent or complement independent. Together with cytotoxic cells, phagocytes are active in the encapsulation of large materials. Cells involved in immune responses, collectively called immunocytes, represent a large fraction of hemocytes, and the presence of a cross talk between cytotoxic cells and phagocytes, mediated by secreted humoral factors, was reported. Lectins play a pivotal role as pattern-recognition receptors and opsonizing agents. In addition, variable region-containing chitin-binding proteins, identified in the solitary ascidian Ciona intestinalis, control the settlement and colonization of bacteria in the gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Franchi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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5
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Vizzini A, Bonura A, Longo V, Sanfratello MA, Parrinello D, Cammarata M, Colombo P. Isolation of a novel LPS-induced component of the ML superfamily in Ciona intestinalis. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 53:70-78. [PMID: 26159403 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2015.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Revised: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
ML superfamily represents a group of proteins playing important roles in lipid metabolism and innate immune response. In this study, we report the identification of the first component of the ML superfamily in the invertebrate Ciona intestinalis by means of a subtractive hybridization strategy. Sequence homology and phylogenetic analysis showed that this protein forms a specific clade with vertebrate components of the Niemann-Pick type C2 protein and, for this reason, it has been named Ci-NPC2. The putative Ci-NPC2 is a 150 amino acids long protein with a short signal peptide, seven cysteine residues, three putative lipid binding site and a three-dimensional model showing a characteristic β-strand structure. Gene expression analysis demonstrated that the Ci-NPC2 protein is positively upregulated after LPS inoculum with a peak of expression 1 h after challenge. Finally, in-situ hybridization demonstrated that the Ci-NPC2 protein is preferentially expressed in hemocytes inside the vessel lumen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiti Vizzini
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Angela Bonura
- Istituto di Biomedicina ed Immunologia Molecolare "Alberto Monroy" del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, Italy
| | - Valeria Longo
- Istituto di Biomedicina ed Immunologia Molecolare "Alberto Monroy" del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Parrinello
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Matteo Cammarata
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Paolo Colombo
- Istituto di Biomedicina ed Immunologia Molecolare "Alberto Monroy" del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, Italy.
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Sukhachev AN, D’yachkov IS, Kudryavtsev IV, Kumeiko VV, Tsybul’skii AV, Polevshchikov AV. Application of flow cytometry for the analysis of circulating hemocyte populations in the ascidian Halocynthia aurantium (Pallas, 1787). J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2015. [DOI: 10.1134/s002209301503009x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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7
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Brunetti R, Gissi C, Pennati R, Caicci F, Gasparini F, Manni L. Morphological evidence that the molecularly determined Ciona intestinalis
type A and type B are different species: Ciona robusta
and Ciona intestinalis. J ZOOL SYST EVOL RES 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/jzs.12101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carmela Gissi
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milano Italy
| | - Roberta Pennati
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milano Italy
| | - Federico Caicci
- Dipartimento di Biologia; Università degli Studi di Padova; Padova Italy
| | - Fabio Gasparini
- Dipartimento di Biologia; Università degli Studi di Padova; Padova Italy
| | - Lucia Manni
- Dipartimento di Biologia; Università degli Studi di Padova; Padova Italy
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8
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Vizzini A, Parrinello D, Sanfratello MA, Trapani MR, Mangano V, Parrinello N, Cammarata M. Upregulated transcription of phenoloxidase genes in the pharynx and endostyle of Ciona intestinalis in response to LPS. J Invertebr Pathol 2015; 126:6-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2015.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 01/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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9
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Di Bella MA, Carbone MC, De Leo G. Ultrastructural aspects of naturally occurring wound in the tunic of two ascidians: Ciona intestinalis and Styela plicata (Tunicata). Micron 2015; 69:6-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2014.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Revised: 10/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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10
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Vizzini A, Di Falco F, Parrinello D, Sanfratello MA, Mazzarella C, Parrinello N, Cammarata M. Ciona intestinalis interleukin 17-like genes expression is upregulated by LPS challenge. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 48:129-137. [PMID: 25305501 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2014.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Revised: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In humans, IL-17 is a proinflammatory cytokine that plays a key role in the clearance of extracellular bacteria promoting cell infiltration and production of several cytokines and chemokines. Here, we report on three Ciona intestinalis IL-17 homologues (CiIL17-1, CiIL17-2, CiIL17-3). The gene organization, phylogenetic tree and modeling supported the close relationship with the mammalian IL-17A and IL-17F suggesting that the C. intestinalis IL-17 genes share a common ancestor in the chordate lineages. Real time PCR analysis showed a prompt expression induced by LPS inoculation suggesting that they are involved in the first phase of inflammatory response. In situ hybridization assays disclosed that the genes transcription was upregulated in the pharynx, the main organ of the ascidian immune system, and expressed by hemocytes (granulocytes and univacuolar refractile granulocyte) inside the pharynx vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiti Vizzini
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Felicia Di Falco
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Parrinello
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Sanfratello
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudia Mazzarella
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Nicolò Parrinello
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Matteo Cammarata
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy.
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11
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Parrinello D, Sanfratello MA, Vizzini A, Parrinello N, Cammarata M. Ciona intestinalis galectin (CiLgals-a and CiLgals-b) genes are differentially expressed in endostyle zones and challenged by LPS. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 42:171-176. [PMID: 25449708 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2014.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2014] [Revised: 09/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization assays were performed to answer the question whether the endostyle, that is the initial gastro-intestinal trait of Ciona intestinalis pharynx, is involved in galectin (CiLgals-a and CiLgals-b) production during the pharynx inflammatory response to LPS inoculation. Specific anti-CiLgal-a and anti-CiLgals-b antibodies, and oligonucleotide probes, that mark inflammatory hemocytes inside the pharynx vessels and vessel epithelium as shown by a previous paper, were assayed on endostyle histological sections. For the first time, we show that galectins are produced by endostyle zones, and both CiLgals-a and -b genes are upregulated by LPS. CiLgals-a and CiLgals-b are constitutively expressed in the endostyle zone 2 and 3, respectively, both genes are upregulated by LPS in the zone 2, and CiLgals-b in the zone 3 and 4. The antibody-reacting material contained in intracellular and extracellular large vesicles suggest an unexpected vesicle-dependent transporting mechanism of galectins not provided with signal peptide. Differential expression and gene upregulation in not-treated and LPS-treated specimens, support the role of endostyle galectins both in filter feeding and defense responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Parrinello
- University of Palermo, Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Via Archirafi, 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Sanfratello
- University of Palermo, Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Via Archirafi, 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Aiti Vizzini
- University of Palermo, Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Via Archirafi, 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Nicolò Parrinello
- University of Palermo, Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Via Archirafi, 18, Palermo, Italy
| | - Matteo Cammarata
- University of Palermo, Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Via Archirafi, 18, Palermo, Italy.
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12
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Bacterial diversity associated with the tunic of the model chordate Ciona intestinalis. ISME JOURNAL 2013; 8:309-20. [PMID: 24048225 DOI: 10.1038/ismej.2013.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2013] [Revised: 05/07/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The sea squirt Ciona intestinalis is a well-studied model organism in developmental biology, yet little is known about its associated bacterial community. In this study, a combination of 454 pyrosequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA genes, catalyzed reporter deposition-fluorescence in situ hybridization and bacterial culture were used to characterize the bacteria living inside and on the exterior coating, or tunic, of C. intestinalis adults. The 454 sequencing data set demonstrated that the tunic bacterial community structure is different from that of the surrounding seawater. The observed tunic bacterial consortium contained a shared community of <10 abundant bacterial phylotypes across three individuals. Culture experiments yielded four bacterial strains that were also dominant groups in the 454 sequencing data set, including novel representatives of the classes Alphaproteobacteria and Flavobacteria. The relatively simple bacterial community and availability of dominant community members in culture make C. intestinalis a promising system in which to investigate functional interactions between host-associated microbiota and the development of host innate immunity.
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Vizzini A, Parrinello D, Sanfratello MA, Mangano V, Parrinello N, Cammarata M. Ciona intestinalis peroxinectin is a novel component of the peroxidase-cyclooxygenase gene superfamily upregulated by LPS. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 41:59-67. [PMID: 23562573 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2013.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Peroxinectins function as hemoperoxidase and cell adhesion factor involved in invertebrate immune reaction. In this study, the ascidian (Ciona intestinalis) peroxinectin gene (CiPxt) and its expression during the inflammatory response have been examined. CiPxt is a new member of the peroxidase-cyclooxygenase gene superfamily that contains both the peroxidase domain and the integrin KGD (Lys-Gly-Asp) binding motif. A phylogenetic tree showed that CiPxt is very close to the chordate group and appears to be the outgroup of mammalian MPO, EPO and TPO clades. The CiPxt molecular structure model resulted superimposable to the human myeloperoxidase. The CiPxt mRNA expression is upregulated by LPS inoculation suggesting it is involved in C. intestinalis inflammatory response. The CiPxt was expressed in hemocytes (compartment/morula cells), vessel epithelium, and unilocular refractile granulocytes populating the inflamed tunic matrix and in the zones 7, 8 and 9 of the endostyle, a special pharynx organs homolog to the vertebrate thyroid gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiti Vizzini
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Chemical Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
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Rajan B, Kiron V, Fernandes JMO, Brinchmann MF. Localization and functional properties of two galectin-1 proteins in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) mucosal tissues. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 40:83-93. [PMID: 23416931 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2013.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2013] [Revised: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Galectin-1 is a β-galactoside binding lectin with multiple immune functions in higher vertebrates. We report the characterization of two galectin-1 proteins from Atlantic cod, with emphasis on mucosal tissues. Tissue distribution of these two ≈14kDa galectin-1 proteins (Codgal1-1 and Codgal1-2) was ascertained by western blotting of one dimensional (1D) and two dimensional (2DE) gels. The two galectin-1 proteins were differentially localized in the mucosal tissues of cod. Codgal1-1 was predominantly localized in the basal cells of skin and this protein was present in all the early developmental stages examined, indicating a likely involvement in developmental processes. The two lectins were also localized in the adherent macrophage-like cells (MLC) from cod head kidney and results gathered indicate their possible secretion during Francisella noatunensis infection, suggesting that they are active components of immune defence. Lactose affinity chromatography coupled with gel filtration co-purified the two cod galectin-1 proteins, which hemagglutinated horse red blood cells in a lactose inhibitable manner. They also could bind and agglutinate both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. This study suggests multiple functional roles for galectin-1, especially in development and innate immune response of Atlantic cod.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binoy Rajan
- Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture, University of Nordland, 8049 Bodø, Norway
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Vizzini A, Bonura A, Parrinello D, Sanfratello MA, Longo V, Colombo P. LPS challenge regulates gene expression and tissue localization of a Ciona intestinalis gene through an alternative polyadenylation mechanism. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63235. [PMID: 23646203 PMCID: PMC3639994 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A subtractive hybridization strategy for the identification of differentially expressed genes was performed between LPS-challenged and naive Ciona intestinalis. This strategy allowed the characterization of two transcripts (Ci8short and Ci8long) generated by the use of two Alternative Polyadenylation sites. The Ci8long transcript contains a protein domain with relevant homology to several components of the Receptor Transporting Protein (RTP) family not present in the Ci8short mRNA. By means of Real Time PCR and Northern Blot, the Ci8short and Ci8long transcripts showed a different pattern of gene expression with the Ci8short mRNA being strongly activated after LPS injection in the pharynx. In situ hybridization analysis demonstrated that the activation of the APA site also influenced the tissue localization of the Ci8short transcript. This analysis showed that the Ci8long mRNA was expressed in hemocytes meanwhile the Ci8short mRNA was highly transcribed also in vessel endothelial cells and in the epithelium of pharynx. These findings demonstrated that regulation of gene expression based on different polyadenylation sites is an ancestral powerful strategy influencing both the level of expression and tissue distribution of alternative transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiti Vizzini
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Palermo, Italy
| | - Angela Bonura
- Istituto di Biomedicina ed Immunologia Molecolare “Alberto Monroy” del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Parrinello
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Valeria Longo
- Istituto di Biomedicina ed Immunologia Molecolare “Alberto Monroy” del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Palermo, Italy
| | - Paolo Colombo
- Istituto di Biomedicina ed Immunologia Molecolare “Alberto Monroy” del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Palermo, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Dishaw LJ, Flores-Torres JA, Mueller MG, Karrer CR, Skapura DP, Melillo D, Zucchetti I, De Santis R, Pinto MR, Litman GW. A Basal chordate model for studies of gut microbial immune interactions. Front Immunol 2012; 3:96. [PMID: 22563328 PMCID: PMC3342567 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2012.00096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2012] [Accepted: 04/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Complex symbiotic interactions at the surface of host epithelia govern most encounters between host and microbe. The epithelium of the gut is a physiologically ancient structure that is comprised of a single layer of cells and is thought to possess fully developed immunological capabilities. Ciona intestinalis (sea squirt), which is a descendant of the last common ancestor of all vertebrates, is a potentially valuable model for studying barrier defenses and gut microbial immune interactions. A variety of innate immunological phenomena have been well characterized in Ciona, of which many are active in the gut tissues. Interactions with gut microbiota likely involve surface epithelium, secreted immune molecules including variable region-containing chitin-binding proteins, and hemocytes from a densely populated laminar tissue space. The microbial composition of representative gut luminal contents has been characterized by molecular screening and a potentially relevant, reproducible, dysbiosis can be induced via starvation. The dialog between host and microbe in the gut can be investigated in Ciona against the background of a competent innate immune system and in the absence of the integral elements and processes that are characteristic of vertebrate adaptive immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry J Dishaw
- Department of Pediatrics, USF/ACH Children's Research Institute, University of South Florida College of Medicine St. Petersburg, FL, USA
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Vizzini A, Parrinello D, Sanfratello MA, Salerno G, Cammarata M, Parrinello N. Inducible galectins are expressed in the inflamed pharynx of the ascidian Ciona intestinalis. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2012; 32:101-109. [PMID: 22085774 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2011.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Revised: 10/14/2011] [Accepted: 10/23/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Although ascidians belong to a key group in chordate phylogenesis, amino acid sequences of Ciona intestinalis galectin-CRDs (CiLgals-a and -b) have been retained too divergent from vertebrate galectins. In the present paper, to contribute in disclosing Bi-CRD galectin evolution a novel attempt was carried out on CiLgals-a and -b CRDs phylogenetic analysis, and their involvement in ascidian inflammatory responses was shown. CiLgals resulted aligned with Bi-CRD galectins from vertebrates (Xenopus tropicalis, Gallus gallus, Mus musculus, Homo sapiens), cephalochordates (Branchiostoma floridae), echinoderms (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus) and a mono-CRD galectin from the ascidian Clavelina picta. The CiLgals-a N-terminal and C-terminal CRDs contain the signature sequence involved in carbohydrate binding, whereas the CiLgals-b C-CRD presents only three out of seven key aminoacids and it could not be suitable as sugar binding motif. Sequence similarity between clusters suggests an evolutionary model based on CRD domain gene duplication and sequence diversification. In particular CiLgals-b N-CRD and C-CRD were similar to each other and both grouped with the ascidian C. picta mono-CRD. Homology modeling process shows a CiLgals molecular structure superimposed to chicken and mouse galectins. The CiLgals-a and CiLgals-b genes were upregulated by LPS inoculation suggesting that they are inducible and expressed in the inflamed pharynx as revealed by real-time PCR analysis. Finally, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemical assays showed their localization in the inflamed tissues, while immunoblotting analysis indicated that CiLgals can form oligomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiti Vizzini
- Department of Environmental Biology and Biodiversity, Laboratory of Marine Immunobiology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, 90123 Palermo, Italy
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Arizza V, Parrinello D, Cammarata M, Vazzana M, Vizzini A, Giaramita FT, Parrinello N. A lytic mechanism based on soluble phospholypases A2 (sPLA2) and β-galactoside specific lectins is exerted by Ciona intestinalis (ascidian) unilocular refractile hemocytes against K562 cell line and mammalian erythrocytes. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2011; 30:1014-1023. [PMID: 21288494 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2011.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2010] [Revised: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Hemocytes from the ascidian Ciona intestinalis exert in vitro Ca²+-dependent cytotoxic activity toward mammalian erythrocytes and K562 cells. To examine the lytic mechanism, hemocyte populations were separated (B1-B6 bands) through a Percoll discontinuous density gradient, the hemocyte cytotoxic activity (HCA) and the lytic activity of the hemocyte lysate supernatant (HLS) were assayed. In addition the separated hemocytes were cultured and the cell-free culture medium (CFM) assayed after 3 h culture. Results support that unilocular refractile hemocytes (URGs), enriched in B5, are cytotoxic. The B5-HLS contains lysins and the activity of B5-CFM shows that lysins can be released into a culture medium. The B5 activity was blocked by D-galactose, α-lactose, lactulose, LacNAc, thiodigalactoside (TDG), L-fucose, D-mannose, D-glucose, sphingomyelin (SM), and soluble phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) inhibitors (dibucain, quinacrine). Accordingly, HLS chemico-physical properties (alkaline medium, high thermostability, Ca²+-dependence, trypsin treatment, protease inhibitors) and SEM observations of the affected targets suggested that sPLA2 could be responsible for changes and large alterations of the target cell membrane. An apoptotic activity, as recorded by a caspase 3, 7 assay, was found by treating K562 cells with very diluted HLS. A lytic mechanism involving sPLA2 and lectins promptly released by URGs and morula cells respectively is suggested, whereas target cell membrane SM could be a modulator of the enzyme activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Arizza
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Dipartimento di Biologia Animale, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, 90123 Palermo, Italy
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Parrinello N, Vizzini A, Salerno G, Sanfratello MA, Cammarata M, Arizza V, Vazzana M, Parrinello D. Inflamed adult pharynx tissues and swimming larva of Ciona intestinalis share CiTNFα-producing cells. Cell Tissue Res 2010; 341:299-311. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-010-0993-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2010] [Accepted: 05/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have been shown to play a crucial role in host defense against pathogenic microbes in innate immunity in mammals. Recent genome-wide analyses have suggested that TLRs or related genes are conserved in the genome of non-mammalian organisms such as fishes, cyclostomes, ascidians, cephalochordates, sea urchins, and hydras. However, neither active forms nor functions of authentic invertebrate TLRs had been elucidated. Quite recently, we verified the structures, localization, ligand recognition, activities, and inflammatory cytokine production of two TLRs in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis, designated Ci-TLR1 and Ci-TLR2. Both Ci-TLRs possess a unique structural organization, with moderate sequence similarity to functionally characterized vertebrate TLRs, and are expressed predominantly in the stomach and intestine as well as in hemocytes. Unlike vertebrate TLRs, Ci-TLR1 and Ci-TLR2 are present in both the plasma membrane and endosomes. Furthermore, both Ci-TLR1 and Ci-TLR2 stimulate NF-kappaB induction in response to multiple pathogenic ligands that are differentially recognized by respective vertebrate TLRs. Pathogenic ligands that stimulate the Ci-TLRs also induce the expression of Ci-TNFalpha in the intestine and stomach, where the Ci-TLRs are abundantly expressed. These data reveal the conservation of the TLR-triggered innate immune system in C. intestinalis, and both common and unique biological and immunological functions of the Ci-TLRs. Based on the latest findings, we review recent advances in studies of TLRs or related receptors in fish, cyclostomes, deuterostome invertebrates, and hydra, and also the significance of studies of lower organism TLRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honoo Satake
- Suntory Institute for Bioorganic Research, 1-1-1 Wakayamadai, Shimamoto, Mishima, Osaka 618-8503, Japan.
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Cooper EL. Evolution of immune systems from self/not self to danger to artificial immune systems (AIS). Phys Life Rev 2010; 7:55-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2009.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2009] [Revised: 11/02/2009] [Accepted: 12/18/2009] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Bonura A, Vizzini A, Salerno G, Parrinello N, Longo V, Colombo P. Isolation and expression of a novel MBL-like collectin cDNA enhanced by LPS injection in the body wall of the ascidian Ciona intestinalis. Mol Immunol 2009; 46:2389-94. [PMID: 19481807 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2009.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2009] [Revised: 04/18/2009] [Accepted: 04/29/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Collectins are a family of calcium-dependent lectins that are characterized by their collagen-like domains. Considerable interest has been focused on this class of proteins because of their ability to interact with components of the complement system activating a cascade of events responsible for the activation of the innate immune system. A differential screening between LPS-challenged and naïve Ciona intestinalis has been performed allowing the isolation of a full length cDNA encoding for a 221 AA protein. In silico analysis has shown that this polypeptide displays protein domains with similarities to mannose-binding lectins. A phylogenetic analysis suggested that C. intestinalis MBL has evolved early as a prototype of vertebrate MBL. Real-time PCR assay demonstrated that this gene is strongly activated after LPS injection in the tunica. In situ hybridization performed in LPS-induced animals has shown that this gene is expressed in granular amoebocytes and large granules hemocytes in the inflamed body wall tissue. Finally, an antimicrobial activity of the C. intestinalis MBL has been demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Bonura
- Istituto di Biomedicina ed Immunologia Molecolare Alberto Monroy del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, Italy
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Menin A, Ballarin L. Immunomodulatory molecules in the compound ascidian Botryllus schlosseri: Evidence from conditioned media. J Invertebr Pathol 2008; 99:275-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2008.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2008] [Revised: 08/06/2008] [Accepted: 08/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Enhanced expression of a cloned and sequenced Ciona intestinalis TNFα-like (CiTNFα) gene during the LPS-induced inflammatory response. Cell Tissue Res 2008; 334:305-17. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-008-0695-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2008] [Accepted: 09/04/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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The prophenoloxidase system is activated during the tunic inflammatory reaction of Ciona intestinalis. Cell Tissue Res 2008; 333:481-92. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-008-0649-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 05/19/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Molecular and functional characterization of a tandem-repeat galectin from the freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata, intermediate host of the human blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni. Gene 2008; 411:46-58. [PMID: 18280060 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2008.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2007] [Revised: 12/19/2007] [Accepted: 01/07/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, a tandem-repeat type galectin was characterized from an embryonic cell line (Bge) and circulating hemocytes of the snail Biomphalaria glabrata, intermediate host of the human blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni. The predicted B. glabrata galectin (BgGal) protein of 32 kDa possessed 2 carbohydrate recognition domains, each displaying 6 of 8 conserved amino acids involved in galactoside-binding activity. A recombinant BgGal (rBgGal) demonstrated hemagglutinating activity against rabbit erythrocytes, which was specifically inhibited by galactose-containing sugars (lacNAc/lac>galNAc/gal). Although native galectin was immunolocalized in the cytoplasm of Bge cells and the plasma membrane of a subset of snail hemocytes (60%), it was not detected in cell-free plasma by Western blot analysis. The findings that rBgGal selectively recognizes the schistosome-related sugar, lacNAc, and strongly binds to hemocytes and the tegument of S. mansoni sporocysts in a sugar-inhibitable fashion suggest that hemocyte-bound galectin may be serving as a pattern recognition receptor for this, or other pathogens possessing appropriate sugar ligands. Based on molecular and functional features, BgGal represents an authentic galectin, the first to be fully characterized in the medically-important molluscan Class Gastropoda.
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Vizzini A, Pergolizzi M, Vazzana M, Salerno G, Di Sano C, Macaluso P, Arizza V, Parrinello D, Cammarata M, Parrinello N. FACIT collagen (1alpha-chain) is expressed by hemocytes and epidermis during the inflammatory response of the ascidian Ciona intestinalis. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2007; 32:682-692. [PMID: 18045687 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2007.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2007] [Revised: 10/08/2007] [Accepted: 10/11/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Based on previous cloning and sequencing study, real-time PCR and in situ hybridization assays of the inflamed body wall of LPS-injected Ciona intestinalis showed the enhanced gene expression of a collagen with FACIT structural features (Ci-type IX-Col 1alpha-chain). By using specific antibodies raised against an opportunely chosen Ci-type IX-Col synthetic peptide, the fibroblast property of hemocytes challenged in vitro with LPS (at 4h) was displayed by flow cytometry, while immunocytochemistry identified hemocytes with large granules (morula cells) as collagen-producing cells. Hemocyte lysate supernatant analyzed in immunoblotting contained a 60 kDa band identifiable as 1alpha-chain-Ci-type IX-Col. Observations of body wall sections (immunohistochemistry method) supported the role of hemocytes and showed that epidermis expressed Ci-type IX-Col 1alpha-chain in the time course of the inflammatory reaction (within 24h). Transcript and protein were mainly found in the epidermis that outlined the proximal side of the tunic matrix (at 24h after LPS injection), in cells associated with the epidermis at 4 and 192 h. In conclusion, the C. intestinalis inflammatory response to LPS challenge appeared to be composed of a complex reaction set, and for the first time we showed in ascidians a granulation tissue with FACIT-collagen production that could participate in inflammation and wound healing. Like in vertebrates, C. intestinalis acute inflammatory reactions result in a regulated pattern of tissue repair with collagen expression during remodelling. Ci-type IX-Col could be involved in a network of non-fibril-forming collagens that participates in the organization of extracellular matrix and defense responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiti Vizzini
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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