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Raveney BJE, El‐Darawish Y, Sato W, Arinuma Y, Yamaoka K, Hori S, Yamamura T, Oki S. Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) expression distinguishes self-reactive helper T cells in systemic autoimmune disease. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e15864. [PMID: 36069030 PMCID: PMC9549730 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202215864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic T helper cells (Th cells) that respond to self-antigen cannot be easily distinguished from beneficial Th cells. These cells can generate systemic autoimmune disease in response to widely expressed self-antigens. In this study, we have identified neuropilin-1 (NRP1) as a cell surface marker of self-reactive Th cells. NRP1+ Th cells, absent in non-regulatory T cell subsets in normal mice, appeared in models of systemic autoimmune disease and strongly correlated with disease symptoms. NRP1+ Th cells were greatly reduced in Nr4a2 cKO mice, which have reduced self-reactive responses but showed normal responses against exogenous antigens. Transfer of NRP1+ Th cells was sufficient to initiate or accelerate systemic autoimmune disease, and targeting NRP1-expressing Th cells therapeutically ameliorated SLE-like autoimmune symptoms in BXSB-Yaa mice. Peripheral NRP1+ Th cells were significantly increased in human SLE patients. Our data suggest that self-reactive Th cells can be phenotypically distinguished within the Th cell pool. These findings offer a novel approach to identify self-reactive Th cells and target them to treat systemic autoimmune disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben JE Raveney
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
| | - Yosif El‐Darawish
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
| | - Wakiro Sato
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
| | - Yoshiyuki Arinuma
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious DiseasesKitasato University School of MedicineSagamiharaJapan
| | - Kunihiro Yamaoka
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious DiseasesKitasato University School of MedicineSagamiharaJapan
| | - Shohei Hori
- Laboratory for Immunology and MicrobiologyGraduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Yamamura
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
| | - Shinji Oki
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
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2
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Li Q, Wang B, Mu K, Zhang J. The pathogenesis of thyroid autoimmune diseases: New T lymphocytes – Cytokines circuits beyond the Th1−Th2 paradigm. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:2204-2216. [PMID: 30246383 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Department of EndocrinologyJinshan Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of EndocrinologyJinshan Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai China
| | - Kaida Mu
- Department of EndocrinologyShanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu HospitalShanghai China
| | - Jin‐An Zhang
- Department of EndocrinologyShanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu HospitalShanghai China
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3
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Lebre MC, Vieira PL, Tang MW, Aarrass S, Helder B, Newsom-Davis T, Tak PP, Screaton GR. Synovial IL-21/TNF-producing CD4 + T cells induce joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis by inducing matrix metalloproteinase production by fibroblast-like synoviocytes. J Leukoc Biol 2017; 101:775-783. [PMID: 27733582 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.5a0516-217rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone and cartilage destruction is one of the key manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Although the role of T helper (Th)17 cells in these processes is clear, the role of IL-21-producing cells T cells has been neglected. We sought to investigate the role of IL-21 in RA by focusing on the functional characteristics of the main producers of this cytokine, synovial CD4+IL-21+ T cells. We show that the frequency of both synovial fluid (SF) CD4+IL-21+ or CD4+IL-21+TNF+ T cells in patients with RA was significantly higher compared with patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The frequency of peripheral blood (PB) IL-21+CD4+ T cells in patients with RA positively correlated with disease activity score 28 (DAS28), serum anticyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies and IgM-rheumatoid factor (IgM-RF). IL-21 levels in RA SF were associated with matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and MMP-3. Related to this, IL-21 induced significantly the secretion of MMP-1 and MMP-3 in RA synovial biopsies. Sorted SF CD4+IL-21+ T cells significantly induced the release of MMP-1 and MMP-3 by fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) compared with medium or CD4+IL-21- T cells in a coculture system. Neutralization of both IL-21 and TNF resulted in significantly less production of MMP by FLS. The results of this study indicate a new role for synovial CD4+IL-21+TNF+ T cells in promoting synovial inflammation/joint destruction in patients with RA. Importantly, IL-21 blockade in combination with anti-TNF might be an effective therapy in patients with RA by inhibiting MMP-induced inflammation/joint destruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Lebre
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; and
| | - Pedro L Vieira
- Department of Immunology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Man Wai Tang
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; and
| | - Saïda Aarrass
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; and
| | - Boy Helder
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; and
| | - Thomas Newsom-Davis
- Department of Immunology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul P Tak
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gavin R Screaton
- Department of Immunology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, United Kingdom
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4
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Zhou Y, Chen H, Liu L, Yu X, Sukhova GK, Yang M, Zhang L, Kyttaris VC, Tsokos GC, Stillman IE, Ichimura T, Bonventre JV, Libby P, Shi GP. CD74 Deficiency Mitigates Systemic Lupus Erythematosus-like Autoimmunity and Pathological Findings in Mice. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 198:2568-2577. [PMID: 28219888 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1600028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
CD74 mediates MHC class-II antigenic peptide loading and presentation and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus. C57BL/6 Faslpr mice that develop spontaneous lupus-like autoimmunity and pathology showed elevated CD74 expression in the inflammatory cell infiltrates and the adjacent tubular epithelial cells (TECs) in kidneys affected by lupus nephritis but negligible levels in kidneys from age-matched wild-type mice. The inflammatory cytokine IFN-γ or IL-6 induced CD74 expression in kidney TECs in vitro. The presence of kidney TECs from Faslpr mice, rather than from wild-type mice, produced significantly stronger histones, dsDNA, and ribonucleoprotein-Smith Ag complex-induced CD4+ T cell activation. Splenocytes from CD74-deficient FaslprCd74-/- mice had muted responses in a MLR and to the autoantigen histones. Compared with FaslprCd74+/+ mice, FaslprCd74-/- mice had reduced kidney and spleen sizes, splenic activated T cells and B cells, serum IgG and autoantibodies, urine albumin/creatinine ratio, kidney Periodic acid-Schiff score, IgG and C3 deposition, and serum IL-6 and IL-17A levels, but serum IL-2 and TGF-β levels were increased. Study of chronic graft-versus-host C57BL/6 mice that received donor splenocytes from B6.C-H2bm12 /KhEg mice and those that received syngeneic donor splenocytes yielded similar observations. CD74 deficiency reduced lupus-like autoimmunity and kidney pathology in chronic graft-versus-host mice. This investigation establishes the direct participation of CD74 in autoimmunity and highlights a potential role for CD74 in kidney TECs, together with professional APCs in systemic lupus erythematosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Huimei Chen
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115.,Research Institute of Nephrology, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115.,Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Huzhou Teachers College, Huzhou, Zhejiang 313000, China
| | - Xueqing Yu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China;
| | - Galina K Sukhova
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Min Yang
- Department of Rheumatology, Nan Fang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Lijun Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Vasileios C Kyttaris
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215; and
| | - George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215; and
| | - Isaac E Stillman
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Takaharu Ichimura
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Joseph V Bonventre
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Peter Libby
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Guo-Ping Shi
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115;
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5
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Cellular immune profile of kidney transplant patients developing anti-HLA antibodies during childhood. Pediatr Nephrol 2016; 31:1001-10. [PMID: 26692023 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-015-3274-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the field of kidney transplantation, identifying early signatures of humoral rejection is a key challenge. METHODS We investigated the presence of anti-HLA antibodies and the distribution of lymphocyte subpopulations in 77 kidney-transplanted children and young adults compared to 23 healthy controls. Moreover, we tested whether the presence of anti-HLA antibodies could be related to modification in lymphocyte phenotype. Finally, we correlated the presence of anti-HLA antibodies and specific alteration of lymphocyte subsets with clinical outcomes. RESULTS In kidney-transplanted children who developed anti-HLA antibodies, we observed an expansion of double-negative B cells (CD19 + CD27-IgD-), indicating premature aging of this compartment. Moreover, we reported signs of impaired B cell regulation, indicated by a higher IL-21R+ B cell frequency associated with an abnormal increase of follicular helper T cells. Finally, a considerable reduction in CD8+ effector T and invariant Natural killer T (NKT) cells was observed. The stability of graft function over time is significantly correlated with the frequency of peripheral effector CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and invariant NKT cells. CONCLUSIONS This study supports the usefulness of lymphocyte subset as one of a spectrum of early diagnostic tools required to identify patients at risk of developing donor alloimmune response.
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Tavakolpour S. Interleukin 21 as a new possible player in pemphigus: Is it a suitable target? Int Immunopharmacol 2016; 34:139-145. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2016.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Prednisone treatment inhibits the differentiation of B lymphocytes into plasma cells in MRL/MpSlac-lpr mice. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2015; 36:1367-76. [PMID: 26456588 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2015.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM A number of evidence shows that the differentiation of B lymphocytes into plasma cells plays an important role in lupus pathogenesis. In this study we investigated how prednisone, a classical therapeutic drug for autoimmune diseases, regulated plasma cell differentiation in MRL/MpSlac-lpr mice. METHODS MRL/lpr mice were treated with prednisone (2.5 or 5 mg·kg(-1)·d(-1), ig) for 13 weeks, and the proteinuria levels and survival times were monitored. After the mice were euthanized, blood sample, spleen and thymus were collected. The serum levels of anti-dsDNA antibody, anti-nuclear antibody, IL-21, and IL-10 were detected using ELISA kits. Subsets of splenic B and T lymphocytes were quantified with flow cytometry. Transcription factor Blimp-1 and Bcl-6 expression was determined using qPCR and Western blot. RESULTS Prednisone treatment dose-dependently attenuated the lupus symptoms in MRL/lpr mice with decreased proteinuria levels, prolonged survival times, decreased serum anti-nuclear antibody levels, and reduced spleen and thymus indices. Prednisone treatment also significantly decreased the elevated percentages of plasma cells and plasma cell precursors, decreased the percentages of activated T cells, and increased the frequency of CD4(+)CD62L(+) cells, demonstrated that decreased anti-nuclear antibodies and improvements in lupus symptoms were associated with decreased plasma cells. Furthermore, prednisone treatment decreased serum IL-21 and IL-10 levels and reduced the expression of splenic Blimp-1 and Bcl-6 (two key regulatory factors for plasma cell differentiation) in MRL/lpr mice. CONCLUSION Prednisone treatment restricts B lymphocyte differentiation into plasma cells in MRL/lpr mice, which may be correlated with the inhibition of IL-21 production and the restoration of the balance between Blimp-1 and Bcl-6.
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8
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Xiao L, Wei Y, Zhang YN, Luo X, Yang BY, Yu SF, Wu XM, Wu CY, Li HB. Increased IL-21 expression in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasalpolyps. Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 45:404-13. [PMID: 25495679 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Revised: 11/02/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND IL-21 is a key cytokine for regulating B cell immunity, which is involved in several inflammatory conditions. This study sought to define a role for IL-21 in activated B lymphocytes and enhanced tissue eosinophilia in NP tissues during the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). METHODS NP and uncinate process tissues were collected from 64 CRSwNP patients, 25 CRSsNP patients, and 29 control subjects. IL-21 expression was examined using IHC staining, qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, and ELISA, and its clinical implication was evaluated. Moreover, the effects of IL-21 on B cell differentiation and Ig production in cultured NP cells were examined in vitro. RESULTS The mRNA and protein levels of IL-21 were significantly increased in polyp tissues compared with control tissues (P < 0.05). Polyp IL-21 level was significantly associated with polyp size, tissue eosinophilia and asthma comorbidity, and recurrence after surgery (P < 0.05). Both Th1 and Th17 cells were the main cellular sources of IL-21 in polyp tissues. The percentage of IL-21(+) CD4(+) cells was significantly higher in polyp tissues compared with control tissues and matched PBMCs (P < 0.01). Accordingly, the percentage of CD19(+) CD20(+/-) CD38(high) cells was significantly higher in polyp tissues compared with control tissues (P < 0.01). Moreover, recombinant IL-21 significantly increased the percentage of CD19(+) CD20(+/-) CD38(high) cells (plasmablasts) and IgG and IgA production in cultured NP cells in vitro (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Increased IL-21 level in polyp tissues was associated with disease severity, local B cell activation, and immunoglobulin production, suggesting that IL-21 might play an important role in promoting persistent mucosal inflammation in CRSwNP patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Xiao
- Institute of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Zhou J, Wang L, Wang F, Xu P, Li Y, Bai B, Dang L, Sun D. 4q27 as a psoriasis susceptibility locus in the Northeastern Chinese Han population. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 85:15-9. [PMID: 25495849 DOI: 10.1111/tan.12471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Revised: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Psoriasis is an autoimmune inflammatory skin disease with genetic components. Chromosome 4q27 is related to many autoimmune diseases, however, the relationship between psoriasis and 4q27 has not been fully established yet. The objective of this study is to investigate the association between chromosome 4q27 and psoriasis in the Northeastern Chinese Han population. Four common single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs2069762, rs4833837, rs6840978, and rs7684187) from chromosome 4q27 were genotyped in 400 psoriasis cases and 398 controls from the Northeastern Chinese Han population using the Multiplex SNaPSHOT method. Single nucleotide polymorphism and haplotype frequencies were analyzed using spss 13.0. Our data indicated that rs2069762 GG, TG genotypes [GG: odds ratio (OR) = 2.6875, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.5948-4.5290, P < 0.0001; TG: OR = 1.6159, 95% CI = 1.2044-2.1681, P = 0.0013], and H3 haplotype (OR = 1.717, 95% CI = 1.050-2.808, P = 0.030) increased the risk of psoriasis. Furthermore, rs4833837 GG, GA genotypes (GG: OR = 0.2071, 95% CI = 0.0685-0.6266, P = 0.0022; GA: OR = 0.4711, 95% CI = 0.3289-0.6746, P < 0.0001), and H5 haplotype (OR = 0.482, 95% CI = 0.238-0.978, P = 0.039) were identified as protective factors for psoriasis. 4q27 polymorphisms are associated with psoriasis in the Northeastern Chinese Han population.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
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10
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Salzer E, Kansu A, Sic H, Májek P, Ikincioğullari A, Dogu FE, Prengemann NK, Santos-Valente E, Pickl WF, Bilic I, Ban SA, Kuloğlu Z, Demir AM, Ensari A, Colinge J, Rizzi M, Eibel H, Boztug K. Early-onset inflammatory bowel disease and common variable immunodeficiency-like disease caused by IL-21 deficiency. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2014; 133:1651-9.e12. [PMID: 24746753 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2014.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Revised: 01/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations of immune homeostasis in the gut can result in development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Recently, Mendelian forms of IBD have been discovered, as exemplified by deficiency of IL-10 or its receptor subunits. In addition, other types of primary immunodeficiency disorders might be associated with intestinal inflammation as one of their leading clinical presentations. OBJECTIVE We investigated a large consanguineous family with 3 children who presented with early-onset IBD within the first year of life, leading to death in infancy in 2 of them. METHODS Homozygosity mapping combined with exome sequencing was performed to identify the molecular cause of the disorder. Functional experiments were performed to assess the effect of IL-21 on the immune system. RESULTS A homozygous mutation in IL21 was discovered that showed perfect segregation with the disease. Deficiency of IL-21 resulted in reduced numbers of circulating CD19(+) B cells, including IgM(+) naive and class-switched IgG memory B cells, with a concomitant increase in transitional B-cell numbers. In vitro assays demonstrated that mutant IL-21(Leu49Pro) did not induce signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 phosphorylation and immunoglobulin class-switch recombination. CONCLUSION Our study uncovers IL-21 deficiency as a novel cause of early-onset IBD in human subjects accompanied by defects in B-cell development similar to those found in patients with common variable immunodeficiency. IBD might mask an underlying primary immunodeficiency, as illustrated here with IL-21 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Salzer
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aydan Kansu
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Heiko Sic
- Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Peter Májek
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Figen E Dogu
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nina Kathrin Prengemann
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Winfried F Pickl
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation and Institute of Immunology, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ivan Bilic
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sol A Ban
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Zarife Kuloğlu
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Arzu Meltem Demir
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Arzu Ensari
- Department of Pathology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Jacques Colinge
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marta Rizzi
- Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Eibel
- Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kaan Boztug
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria; Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Wang HX, Chu S, Li J, Lai WN, Wang HX, Wu XJ, Kang X, Qiu YR. Increased IL-17 and IL-21 producing TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− T cells in Chinese systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Lupus 2014; 23:643-54. [PMID: 24554709 DOI: 10.1177/0961203314524467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Increased numbers of TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− T cells in the peripheral blood of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients in the United States and United Kingdom have been reported. However, the proportions of TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− T cells and their involvement in the pathogenesis of SLE in Chinese populations are yet to be determined. Methods: A total of 120 SLE patients, 38 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and 43 normal control subjects were examined. The proportion of TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− T cells in the peripheral blood, Fas expression on these cells, and intracellular cytokine levels in these cells were assessed using flow cytometry. Plasma cytokine concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The percentages of TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− T cells were increased in Chinese SLE patients, particularly in active SLE patients, correlated with decreased Fas expression on these cells. IL-17 and IL-21 levels in the blood and in TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− T cells from SLE patients were increased. Moreover, a positive correlation was evident between IL-17- and IL-21-producing TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− T cells. Conclusions: Increased TCRαβ+CD4−CD8− T cells expressing inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-17 and IL-21, may be implicated in the pathogenesis of SLE in patients. Appropriate IL-17- and/or IL-21 blockage may be utilized as a novel immunotherapeutic strategy for SLE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- H-X Wang
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - S Chu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - J Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - W-N Lai
- Department of Rheumatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - H-X Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanyang Center Hospital, Henan, China
| | - X-J Wu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - X Kang
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Y-R Qiu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
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McPhee CG, Bubier JA, Sproule TJ, Park G, Steinbuck MP, Schott WH, Christianson GJ, Morse HC, Roopenian DC. IL-21 is a double-edged sword in the systemic lupus erythematosus-like disease of BXSB.Yaa mice. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2013; 191:4581-8. [PMID: 24078696 PMCID: PMC3807747 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1300439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The pleiotropic cytokine IL-21 is implicated in the pathogenesis of human systemic lupus erythematosus by polymorphisms in the molecule and its receptor (IL-21R). The systemic lupus erythematosus-like autoimmune disease of BXSB.Yaa mice is critically dependent on IL-21 signaling, providing a model for understanding IL-21/IL-21R signaling in lupus pathogenesis. In this study, we generated BXSB.Yaa mice selectively deficient in IL-21R on B cells, on all T cells, or on CD8(+) T cells alone and examined the effects on disease. We found that IL-21 signaling to B cells is essential for the development of all classical disease manifestations, but that IL-21 signaling also supports the expansion of central memory, CD8(+) suppressor cells and broadly represses the cytokine activity of CD4(+) T cells. These results indicate that IL-21 has both disease-promoting and disease-suppressive effects in the autoimmune disease of BXSB.Yaa mice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Giljun Park
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
| | | | | | | | - Herbert C. Morse
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20852
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13
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Interleukin-21, a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatol Int 2013; 34:1027-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00296-013-2860-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/31/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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14
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2013; 25:398-409. [DOI: 10.1097/bor.0b013e3283604218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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15
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Yang X, Yang J, Chu Y, Wang J, Guan M, Zhu X, Xue Y, Zou H. T follicular helper cells mediate expansion of regulatory B cells via IL-21 in Lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e62855. [PMID: 23638156 PMCID: PMC3634758 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0062855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
T follicular helper (Tfh) cells can mediate humoral immune responses and augment autoimmunity, whereas the role of Tfh cells on regulatory B (B10) cells in autoimmunity diseases is not clear. Here, we investigated the percentages of Tfh cells and B10 cells in lupus-prone MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr (MRL/lpr) mice and examined the effects and mechanism of Tfh cell-derived interleukin-21 (IL-21) on IL-10 production during the differentiation of B10 cells. Both Tfh cells and B10 cells were expanded in spleens of MRL/lpr mice. In addition, a positive correlation between the proportions of Tfh cells and B10 cells was observed. Tfh cell-derived IL-21 from MRL/lpr mice could promote IL-10 production during the differentiation of B10 cells. Importantly, neutralization of IL-21 inhibited IL-10 production and expansion of B10 cells both in vitro and in vivo. IL-21 induced IL-10 production via activation of phosphorylated signal transduction and activator of transcription 3 (p-STAT3). Inhibition of p-STAT3 effectively blocked IL-10 production during the differentiation of B10 cells. Moreover, IL-21-induced IL-10 exerted a regulatory function by inhibiting the proliferation of T cells. These data suggest that Tfh cells not only mediate humoral immune responses and augment autoimmunity but also play a broader role in immune regulatory actions via the induction of IL-10 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yang
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ji Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiwei Chu
- Department of Immunology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiucun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Guan
- Central Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zhu
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Xue
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hejian Zou
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: .
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16
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Pan HF, Wu GC, Fan YG, Leng RX, Peng H, Zhou M, Li BZ, Zhu Y, Tao JH, Li XP, Ye DQ. Decreased serum level of IL-21 in new-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Rheumatol Int 2013; 33:2337-42. [PMID: 23539271 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-013-2724-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the serum IL-21 levels in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and its relations with clinical and laboratory features. Fifty-seven patients with SLE and 30 healthy volunteers were recruited in the current study. Serum IL-21 levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Statistical analyses were performed by SPSS 10.01. Results showed that IL-21 levels were significantly decreased in the serum of patients with SLE compared with controls (P = 0.026). There was no significant difference regarding serum IL-21 level between SLE patients with nephritis and those without nephritis (P = 0.066); no significant difference was found between less active SLE and more active SLE (P = 0.588). The presence of anemia was associated with low serum IL-21 levels (P = 0.030) in SLE patients. In summary, decreased serum level of IL-21 and its association with anemia indicate a possible role of IL-21 in human SLE. However, further studies are needed to confirm this preliminary results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Feng Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
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17
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Turksma AW, Bontkes HJ, Ruizendaal JJ, van den Heuvel H, Scholten KBJ, Santegoets SJAM, de Gruijl TD, Meijer CJLM, Hooijberg E. Increased cytotoxic capacity of tumor antigen specific human T cells after in vitro stimulation with IL21 producing dendritic cells. Hum Immunol 2013; 74:506-13. [PMID: 23376456 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2013.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Revised: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 01/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Monocyte derived dendritic cells (moDC) electroporated with tumor associated antigen derived mRNA can elicit specific T cells against tumor cells in vivo. IL21 has been shown to enhance activation and cytotoxicity in CD8+ T cells. We therefore investigated in vitro effects on human CD8+ T-cells after stimulation with IL21 mRNA electroporated moDC. Codon modification of the IL21 gene significantly enhanced IL21 production upon electroporation of moDC. Tumor associated antigen specific CTL induction efficiency was significantly enhanced when codon modified IL21 mRNA was co-electroporated with tumor associated antigen mRNA. Tumor associated antigen specific T cells induced by codon modified IL21-DC demonstrated increased cytotoxic capacity and killing compared to control cultures. In conclusion, ectopic expression of codon modified IL21 by moDC enhances the priming efficiency of the DC as well as the cytotoxic potential of the induced CTL.
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Affiliation(s)
- A W Turksma
- VU University Medical Center - Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Pathology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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18
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Xie A, Buras ED, Xia J, Chen W. The Emerging Role of Interleukin-21 in Transplantation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; Suppl 9:1-7. [PMID: 23828737 DOI: 10.4172/2155-9899.s9-002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Since its discovery in 2000, IL-21 has been shown to play critical roles in the regulation of both innate and adaptive immune responses. IL-21 is produced predominantly by multiple effector CD4+ T-cell types [T helper 17 (Th17), follicular helper T (TFH), and other activated CD4+ cells] and NKT cells. In addition to T cell receptor (TCR) signals, the production of IL-21 by activated CD4+ T cells is intricately regulated by various extrinsic factors and intrinsic molecules, such as IL-6, IL-21, ICOS, Stat3, IRF4, and Batf. Because IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) is broadly expressed on T, B, NK, and dentritic cells (DCs), IL-21 signaling via Jak-Stat and other pathways has direct pleiotropic effects on their proliferation, differentiation, and effector function. For instance, while Th17 and TFH cells produce IL-21, IL-21 also facilitates the development of these cells. IL-21-producing TFH cells are important for the generation and maintenance of germinal centers, and control the differentiation of germinal center B cells and immunoglobulin production. Thus, IL-21R deficiency or IL-21 neutralization with IL-21R-Fc fusion protein prevents B cell-mediated autoimmunity in lupus-prone BXSB.B6-Yaa+ or MRL-Faslpr mouse models, respectively. IL-21 also enhances expansion and cytotoxicity of CD8+ effector T cells. During chronic lymphocytic choriomeningitis viral infection, chronic IL-21 production by antigen-specific CD4+ T cells is needed to sustain CD8+ T cell function for viral control. IL-21 is also required for the development of T cell-mediated type 1 diabetes in NOD mice, possibly through sustaining effector T cell function in a similar manner. Recently, two papers have shown that IL-21R-Fc prevents both auto- and allo-immune responses after islet transplantation. A timely discussion is thus needed to address the immune actions of IL-21 as well as the therapeutic potential of targeting IL-21 in transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aini Xie
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA ; Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
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19
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Maurer MF, Garrigues U, Jaspers SR, Meengs B, Rixon MW, Stevens BL, Lewis KB, Julien SH, Bukowski TR, Wolf AC, Hamacher NB, Snavely M, Dillon SR. Generation and characterization of human anti-human IL-21 neutralizing monoclonal antibodies. MAbs 2012; 4:69-83. [PMID: 22327431 DOI: 10.4161/mabs.4.1.18713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-21 (IL-21) is a type I four-helical bundle cytokine that exerts a variety of significant effects on many hematopoietic cells, including T and B lymphocytes and natural killer cells. IL-21 is produced predominantly by CD4+ T cells and natural killer T cells and, when aberrantly overexpressed, appears to play important roles in a wide variety of autoimmune disorders. To generate potential therapeutic reagents capable of inhibiting IL-21 for clinical use, we immunized human immunoglobulin transgenic mice with IL-21 and then identified and cloned a panel of human anti-human IL-21 binding monoclonal antibodies. IL-21 neutralizing and IL-21-binding, non-neutralizing antibodies were assigned to distinct epitope "bins" based on surface plasmon resonance competition studies. The most potent neutralizing antibodies had extremely high (sub pM) affinity for IL-21 and were able to block IL-21 activity in various biological assays using either an IL-21R-transfected pre-B-cell line or primary human B cells, and their neutralizing activity was, in some cases, superior to that of a soluble form of the high affinity heterodimeric IL-21 receptor. Characterization of this panel of IL-21 antibodies provided the basis for the selection of a therapeutic candidate antibody capable of inhibiting IL-21 activity for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark F Maurer
- Department of Preclinical Research and Development, ZymoGenetics, Inc., Seattle, WA, USA
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Role of cytokines in systemic lupus erythematosus: recent progress from GWAS and sequencing. J Biomed Biotechnol 2012; 2012:798924. [PMID: 22654485 PMCID: PMC3359833 DOI: 10.1155/2012/798924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Revised: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disorder, known to have a strong genetic component. Concordance between monozygotic twins is approximately 30-40%, which is 8-20 times higher than that of dizygotic twins. In the last decade, genome-wide approaches to understanding SLE have yielded many candidate genes, which are important to understanding the pathophysiology of the disease and potential targets for pharmaceutical intervention. In this paper, we focus on the role of cytokines and examine how genome-wide association studies, copy number variation studies, and next-generation sequencing are being employed to understand the etiology of SLE. Prominent genes identified by these approaches include BLK, FCγR3B, and TREX1. Our goal is to present a brief overview of genomic approaches to SLE and to introduce some of the key discussion points pertinent to the field.
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21
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Ohl K, Tenbrock K. Inflammatory cytokines in systemic lupus erythematosus. J Biomed Biotechnol 2011; 2011:432595. [PMID: 22028588 PMCID: PMC3196871 DOI: 10.1155/2011/432595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Accepted: 08/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease of unknown origin affecting virtually all organ systems. Beyond genetic and environmental factors, cytokine imbalances contribute to immune dysfunction, trigger inflammation, and induce organ damage. The key cytokine that is involved in SLE pathogenesis is interferon alpha. Interferon secretion is induced by immune complexes and leads to upregulation of several inflammatory proteins, which account for the so-called IFN signature that can be found in the majority of SLE PBMCs. Additionally IL-6 and IFN-y as well as T-cell-derived cytokines like IL-17, IL-21, and IL-2 are dysregulated in SLE. The latter induce a T-cell phenotype that is characterized by enhanced B-cell help and enhanced secretion of proinflammatory cytokines but reduced induction of suppressive T cells and activation-induced cell death. This paper will focus on these cytokines and highlights pathophysiological approaches and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Ohl
- Division of Pediatric Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Klaus Tenbrock
- Division of Pediatric Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Dolff S, Abdulahad WH, Westra J, Doornbos-van der Meer B, Limburg PC, Kallenberg CGM, Bijl M. Increase in IL-21 producing T-cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Arthritis Res Ther 2011; 13:R157. [PMID: 21959034 PMCID: PMC3308088 DOI: 10.1186/ar3474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2011] [Revised: 09/01/2011] [Accepted: 09/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease accompanied by a disturbed T-cell balance skewed towards effector T-cells, in particular Th17-cells. The novel cytokine interleukin-21 (IL-21) is suggested to be crucial for triggering T-cell responses towards IL-17 producing cells. Thus, we aimed to investigate the ability of T-cells to produce IL-21 and IL-17 in SLE patients. METHODS Peripheral blood of 34 SLE patients and 18 healthy controls (HC) was stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and calcium ionophore (Ca-Io). Percentages of IL-21- and IL-17A expressing T-cells were analysed by flow cytometry. The expression levels of the transcription factors B-cell lymphoma-6 (BCL-6) and factors retinoid-related orphan receptor (ROR-γt) were assessed in T-cells by real-time RT-PCR and flow cytometry. Additionally, IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) expression on B- and T-cells of patients and HC was analyzed. RESULTS Significantly increased percentages of IL-21 expressing CD4+ T-cells and CD8+ T-cells were found in SLE patients as compared to HC. The percentages of IL-21+ CD4+ T-cells and CD8+ T-cells correlated significantly with the percentages of IL-17A+ CD4+ T-cells and CD8+ T-cells, respectively. The relative expression of BCL-6 and ROR-γt did not differ between SLE patients and HC. IL-21R expression occurred mainly on B-cells and was not different comparing SLE patients and HC. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates an increased proportion of IL-21+ T-cells in SLE patients correlating with the proportion of IL-17+ T-cells. This suggests a pivotal role of IL-21 in the pathogenesis of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Dolff
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands.
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