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Tomljenovic L, McHenry LB. A reactogenic "placebo" and the ethics of informed consent in Gardasil HPV vaccine clinical trials: A case study from Denmark. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RISK & SAFETY IN MEDICINE 2024; 35:159-180. [PMID: 38788092 DOI: 10.3233/jrs-230032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical ethics guidelines require of clinical trial investigators and sponsors to inform prospective trial participants of all known and potential risks associated with investigational medical products, and to obtain their free informed consent. These guidelines also require that clinical research be so designed as to minimize harms and maximize benefits. OBJECTIVE To examine Merck's scientific rationale for using a reactogenic aluminum-containing "placebo" in Gardasil HPV vaccine pre-licensure clinical trials. METHODS We examined the informed consent form and the recruitment brochure for the FUTURE II Gardasil vaccine trial conducted in Denmark; and we interviewed several FUTURE II trial participants and their treating physicians. We also reviewed regulatory documentation related to Gardasil vaccine approval process and the guidelines on evaluation of adjuvants used in human vaccines. RESULTS It was found that the vaccine manufacturer Merck made several inaccurate statements to trial participants that compromised their right to informed consent. First, even though the study protocol listed safety testing as one of the study's primary objectives, the recruitment brochure emphasized that FUTURE II was not a safety study, and that the vaccine had already been proven safe. Second, the advertising material for the trial and the informed consent forms stated that the placebo was saline or an inactive substance, when, in fact, it contained Merck's proprietary highly reactogenic aluminum adjuvant which does not appear to have been properly evaluated for safety. Several trial participants experienced chronic disabling symptoms, including some randomized to the adjuvant "placebo" group. CONCLUSION In our view, the administration of a reactive placebo in Gardasil clinical trials was without any possible benefit, needlessly exposed study subjects to risks, and was therefore a violation of medical ethics. The routine use of aluminum adjuvants as "placebos" in vaccine clinical trials is inappropriate as it hinders the discovery of vaccine-related safety signals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leemon B McHenry
- Department of Philosophy, California State University, Northridge, CA, USA
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2
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Rojas M, Herrán M, Ramírez-Santana C, Leung PSC, Anaya JM, Ridgway WM, Gershwin ME. Molecular mimicry and autoimmunity in the time of COVID-19. J Autoimmun 2023; 139:103070. [PMID: 37390745 PMCID: PMC10258587 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2023.103070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases are commonly implicated as potential initiators of autoimmune diseases (ADs) and represent the most commonly known factor in the development of autoimmunity in susceptible individuals. Epidemiological data and animal studies on multiple ADs suggest that molecular mimicry is one of the likely mechanisms for the loss of peripheral tolerance and the development of clinical disease. Besides molecular mimicry, other mechanisms such as defects in central tolerance, nonspecific bystander activation, epitope-determinant spreading, and/or constant antigenic stimuli, may also contribute for breach of tolerance and to the development of ADs. Linear peptide homology is not the only mechanism by which molecular mimicry is established. Peptide modeling (i.e., 3D structure), molecular docking analyses, and affinity estimation for HLAs are emerging as critical strategies when studying the links of molecular mimicry in the development of autoimmunity. In the current pandemic, several reports have confirmed an influence of SARS-CoV-2 on subsequent autoimmunity. Bioinformatic and experimental evidence support the potential role of molecular mimicry. Peptide dimensional analysis requires more research and will be increasingly important for designing and distributing vaccines and better understanding the role of environmental factors related to autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Rojas
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia.
| | - María Herrán
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Carolina Ramírez-Santana
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Patrick S C Leung
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Juan-Manuel Anaya
- Health Research and Innovation Center at Coosalud, Cartagena, 130001, Colombia
| | - William M Ridgway
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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Zhou H, Ye Q. Clinical Features of COVID-19 Vaccine-Associated Autoimmune Hepatitis: A Systematic Review. Diseases 2023; 11:80. [PMID: 37366868 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11020080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an inflammatory liver disease wherein the body's immune system instigates an attack on the liver, causing inflammation and hepatic impairment. This disease usually manifests in genetically predisposed individuals and is triggered by stimuli or environments such as viral infections, environmental toxins, and drugs. The causal role of COVID-19 vaccination in AIH remains uncertain. This review of 39 cases of vaccine-related AIH indicates that female patients above the age of 50 years or those with potential AIH risk factors may be susceptible to vaccine-related AIH, and the clinical features of vaccine-associated AIH are similar to those of idiopathic AIH. These features commonly manifest in patients after the first dose of vaccination, with symptom onset typically delayed by 10-14 days. The incidence of underlying liver disease in patients with potential health conditions associated to liver disease is similar to that of patients without preexisting illnesses. Steroid administration is effective in treating vaccine-related AIH-susceptible patients, with most patients experiencing improvement in their clinical symptoms. However, care should be taken to prevent bacterial infections during drug administration. Furthermore, the possible pathogenic mechanisms of vaccine-associated AIH are discussed to offer potential ideas for vaccine development and enhancement. Although the incidence of vaccine-related AIH is rare, individuals should not be deterred from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, as the benefits of vaccination significantly outweigh the risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, National Children's Regional Medical Center, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Qing Ye
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, National Children's Regional Medical Center, Hangzhou 310000, China
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Longitudinal Analysis of Antiphospholipid Antibody Dynamics after Infection with SARS-CoV-2 or Vaccination with BNT162b2. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010211. [PMID: 36613655 PMCID: PMC9820546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) comprise a group of autoantibodies that reflect prothrombotic risk in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) but may also be present in a small proportion of healthy individuals. They are often transiently elevated in infections, including SARS-CoV-2, and may also be associated with vaccine-induced autoimmunity. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the dynamics of aPL in COVID-19 patients and in individuals (healthcare professionals-HCPs) after receiving BNT162b2 vaccine and to compare aPL levels and positivity with those found in APS patients. We measured solid-phase identifiable aPL, including anticardiolipin (aCL), anti-β2 glycoprotein I (anti-β2GPI), and anti-prothrombin/phosphatidylserine (aPS/PT) antibodies in 58 HCPs before and after vaccination (at 3 weeks, 3, 6, and 9 months after the second dose, and 3 weeks after the third booster dose), in 45 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the ICU, in 89 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the non-ICU (at admission, at hospital discharge, and at follow-up), and in 52 patients with APS. The most frequently induced aPL in COVID-19 patients (hospitalized in non-ICU) were aCL (50.6% of patients had positive levels at at least one time point), followed by anti-β2GPI (21.3% of patients had positive levels at at least one time point). In 9/89 COVID-19 patients, positive aPL levels persisted for three months. One HCP developed aCL IgG after vaccination but the persistence could not be confirmed, and two HCPs developed persistent anti-β2GPI IgG after vaccination with no increase during a 1-year follow-up period. Solid-phase aPL were detected in 84.6% of APS patients, in 49.4% of COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the non-ICU, in 33.3% of COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the ICU, and in only 17.2% of vaccinated HCPs. aPL levels and multiple positivity were significantly lower in both infected groups and in vaccinated individuals compared with APS patients. In conclusion, BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine may have induced aPL in a few individuals, whereas SARS-CoV-2 infection itself results in a higher percentage of aPL induction, but the levels, persistence, and multiple positivity of aPL do not follow the pattern observed in APS.
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He N, Leng X, Zeng X. Systemic lupus erythematosus following human papillomavirus vaccination: A case-based review. Int J Rheum Dis 2022; 25:1208-1212. [PMID: 35948863 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous systemic autoimmune diseases (AIDs) with many pathogenic factors, ranging from genetic to epigenetic to environmental. The human papillomavirus (HPV), a viral infectious agent, is a common contributor to the onset and exacerbation of SLE. HPV infections are more prevalent among SLE patients than healthy individuals, bringing about a substantial need for treatment. While HPV recombinant gene vaccines are accepted as a universal method for infection prevention, they pose a risk for adverse events such as fever, joint pain, and rashes. In rare cases, they might even trigger AIDs such as SLE, especially in patients with a personal or family history of such diseases. In this article, we provide a report of a case of SLE onset following HPV vaccination and a review of 11 similar cases. An analysis of 12 patients revealed that 7 cases of SLE developed between 3 weeks and 2 months post-vaccination. Symptoms of SLE generally manifest as fatigue, fever, joint pain, and myalgia. Two patients had lupus nephritis, 2 showed central nervous system involvement, including abnormal behavior and epileptic seizures, and 1 had intestinal pseudo-obstruction. All patients showed rapid remission with glucocorticoid and immunosuppressive therapy and remained stable during several months of follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan He
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Leng
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zeng
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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Taumberger N, Joura EA, Arbyn M, Kyrgiou M, Sehouli J, Gultekin M. Myths and fake messages about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination: answers from the ESGO Prevention Committee. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2022; 32:ijgc-2022-003685. [PMID: 35820716 PMCID: PMC9554067 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2022-003685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Taumberger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Elmar A Joura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marc Arbyn
- Unit of Cancer Epidemiology, Belgian Cancer Centre Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maria Kyrgiou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction - Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Jalid Sehouli
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics with Centre of Oncological Surgery, Charité Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Murat Gultekin
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Castillo-Cano B, Martín-Pérez M, Llorente-García A, Montero-Corominas D, Comas-Cufí M, Martín-Merino E. Assessment of thyroiditis risk associated with HPV vaccination among girls aged 9-18 years: A time-varying cohort study. Vaccine 2022; 40:4816-4826. [PMID: 35792023 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.06.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have suggested a relationship between human papillomavirus vaccine and autoimmune diseases, including thyroiditis. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the risk of thyroiditis associated with HPV vaccination among girls using the Primary Care Database For Pharmacoepidemiological Research (BIFAP) in Spain. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, girls in BIFAP aged 9-18 years from 2007 to 2016, free of past thyroiditis and HPV vaccination, were included. Hazard Ratios (HRs; 95% CI) of thyroiditis were calculated within exposed periods (up to 2 years of vaccination) and post-exposed periods (from 2 years after vaccination onwards) compared with non-exposed periods, overall, by dose and by type of vaccine, adjusted for potential confounders collected at different times. In a post-hoc analysis, we moved back the thyroiditis date (30 days) as a theoretical delay in diagnosis. RESULTS Out of the 388,411 girls included in the cohort, 153,924 were vaccinated against HPV and 480 thyroiditis (253 autoimmune) cases were identified (334 non-exposed; 103 exposed; 43 post-exposed). Adjusted HR was 1.18 [95% CI: 0.79-1.76] for exposed (1.25 [0.77-2.04] for bi- and 1.15 [0.76-1.76] for quadri-valent vaccines) and 1.26 [0.74-2.14] for post-exposed periods. HR was 1.50 [0.87-2.59] for the 1st dose, 1.13 [0.66-1.91] for the 2nd and 1.11 [0.71-1.72] for the 3rd one. When the diagnosis date was moved back, the risk was 1.14 [0.76-1.70] for exposed period, being 1.80 [0.86-3.76] and 1.40 [0.74-2.66] after 1st dose of bi- and quadri-valent, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We did not observe an increased risk of thyroiditis following HPV vaccination (whether bi- or quadri-valent). Even though the point estimate was higher after 1st HPV vaccination dose than after subsequent doses, a dose-effect was not confirmed. Results remained similar after applying a lag time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Castillo-Cano
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), 28022, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mar Martín-Pérez
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), 28022, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Llorente-García
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), 28022, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolores Montero-Corominas
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), 28022, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marc Comas-Cufí
- Department of Computer Science, Applied Mathematics and Statistics, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Elisa Martín-Merino
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), 28022, Madrid, Spain.
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New Insights into the Epidemiology of Vulvar Cancer: Systematic Literature Review for an Update of Incidence and Risk Factors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14020389. [PMID: 35053552 PMCID: PMC8773873 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Vulvar cancer incidence data were sought from official sources (WHO Cancer Incidence in Five Continents) and studies reporting comparable data. With respect to risk factors, a systematic PubMed search of articles published since 1980 identified 69 original cohort and case-control studies. Information was extracted using a PRISMA predesigned data collection form. Recent advances have provided further evidence in support of the carcinogenic model centred on human papillomavirus infection with different defects of the immune function. Conversely, the model centred on the role of vulvar lichen sclerosus and the often-associated differentiated vulva intraepithelial neoplasia has continued to be understudied. Abstract The aim of this review was an update of vulvar cancer incidence rates and trends and of all known and putative risk factors for the disease. The most recent incidence data were sought from official sources (WHO Cancer Incidence in Five Continents). To obtain an estimate of time trends in some areas, we compared data from Cancer Incidence in Five Continents with the few available studies that measured incidence using comparable methods. With respect to risk factors, a systematic PubMed search identified 1585 relevant articles published between 1980 and 2021. Abstracts and full texts were screened. Sixty-nine eligible original cohort and case-control studies were selected. Information was extracted using a PRISMA predesigned form. Nineteen risk factors, or risk factor categories, were investigated by two or more original studies. Solitary, unreplicated studies addressed the putative role of eight more factors. Recent advances have provided further evidence supporting the carcinogenic model centred on human papillomavirus infection with different defects of the immune function. Conversely, the model centred on the role of vulvar lichen sclerosus and the often associated differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia has continued to be epidemiologically understudied. More research on the association between these two conditions and vulvar cancer is a priority.
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Li KY, Chou MC, Chang R, Yip HT, Hung YM, Wei JCC. The Potential Role of Human Papillomavirus Infection in Bell's Palsy: A Hypothesis-Generating Study Based on a Nationwide Cohort. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:616873. [PMID: 34540856 PMCID: PMC8447863 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.616873] [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: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Our purpose was to investigate whether people with a previous human papillomavirus (HPV) infection were associated with an increased risk of Bell's palsy (BP). Methods: By using Taiwan population-based data, patients aged > 18 years with HPV infection (n = 22,260) from 2000 to 2012 were enrolled and compared with control subjects who had never been diagnosed with an HPV infection at a 1:4 ratio matched by sex, age, index date, and co-morbidities (n = 89,040). The index date was the first date of HPV diagnosis. All the patients were tracked until the occurrence of BP. Cox proportional hazards regression was applied to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) for the development of BP in both groups. Results: The HPV group had 1.25 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–1.51] times higher risk of BP compared with the non-HPV group after adjusting for sex, age, and co-morbidities. The association of HPV and BP was significant in the sensitivity analyses. In the subgroup analysis, the impact of HPV infection on the risk of BP was more pronounced in the elderly > 50 years [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) =1.86; 95% CI = 1.37–2.52], hypertension (aHR = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.17–2.31), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (aHR = 2.14, 95% CI 1.333.43) subgroups. Conclusions: Patients with HPV infection have a higher risk of subsequent BP compared with non-HPV patients. More rigorous studies are needed to confirm if and how specific HPV genotypes are associated with BP and the possible role of vaccines in disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Ying Li
- Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Neuroscience Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chia Chou
- Shu-Zen Junior College of Medicine and Management, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Recreation and Sports Management, Tajen University, Pingtung, Taiwan.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Pingtung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Bioresources, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Renin Chang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hei-Tung Yip
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Institute of Public Health (Biostatistics), National Yangming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Min Hung
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal United Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,College of Health and Nursing, Meiho University, Pingung, Taiwan.,National Yang-Ming University, School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - James Cheng-Chung Wei
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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10
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Wang H, Liu M. Complement C4, Infections, and Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:694928. [PMID: 34335607 PMCID: PMC8317844 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.694928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Complement C4, a key molecule in the complement system that is one of chief constituents of innate immunity for immediate recognition and elimination of invading microbes, plays an essential role for the functions of both classical (CP) and lectin (LP) complement pathways. Complement C4 is the most polymorphic protein in complement system. A plethora of research data demonstrated that individuals with C4 deficiency are prone to microbial infections and autoimmune disorders. In this review, we will discuss the diversity of complement C4 proteins and its genetic structures. In addition, the current development of the regulation of complement C4 activation and its activation derivatives will be reviewed. Moreover, the review will provide the updates on the molecule interactions of complement C4 under the circumstances of bacterial and viral infections, as well as autoimmune diseases. Lastly, more evidence will be presented to support the paradigm that links microbial infections and autoimmune disorders under the condition of the deficiency of complement C4. We provide such an updated overview that would shed light on current research of complement C4. The newly identified targets of molecular interaction will not only lead to novel hypotheses on the study of complement C4 but also assist to propose new strategies for targeting microbial infections, as well as autoimmune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Wang
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Sciences College of Graduate Studies, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States.,Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States.,Department of Basic Science College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States
| | - Mengyao Liu
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Sciences College of Graduate Studies, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States
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11
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Martín-Merino E, Castillo-Cano B, Martín-Perez M, Llorente-García A, Montero-Corominas D. Papillomavirus vaccination and Guillain-Barre Syndrome among girls: A cohort study in Spain. Vaccine 2021; 39:4306-4313. [PMID: 34175126 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies of the association of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) with papillomavirus vaccination (HPVv; scheduled from 2007) have provided contradicting results, probably due to the low frequency of this disease. We aimed at estimating that risk relative to non-vaccination among girls, by using the Spanish Primary Care Database for Pharmacoepidemiological Research (BIFAP). METHODS A cohort study of girls aged 9-18 years during 2007-2016 free of GBS or HPVv was selected and followed up to GBS diagnosis. Follow-up time was divided by time-varying HPVv exposure and confounders. Crude Incidence rates (IR per 1,000,000 person-years (py)) and adjusted Hazard Ratios (HR) of GBS were estimated anytime after vaccination compared to non-exposed periods. HRs were also estimated for the first 90 days after HPVv (risk-window) and thereafter. RESULTS Out of 388,849 girls, of which 154,255 were vaccinated, 6 'confirmed' GBS cases occurred during non-exposure periods (IR of 5.83 per million person-years; 95% CI: 2.62-12.97) and 3 'confirmed' cases anytime after vaccination (IR of 7.87; 95% CI: 2.54-24.39). The resulting adjusted HR anytime after vaccination was 1.24 (95% CI: 0.19-8.00). All three cases occurred after the risk window of 90 days with an HR of 1.77 (95% CI: 0.25-12.54) for post-exposure periods as compared with non-exposure. Since zero cases occurred during the risk window, no HR could be estimated for exposed periods. CONCLUSIONS Incidences of GBS were in line with the range previously reported for young people, supporting the potential of BIFAP for performing studies on GBS. However, a lack of power may be present for quantifying the relative risk of such a rare disease after the vaccination among the study cohort, where we can only exclude an increased risk of 8-times relative to no vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Martín-Merino
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), Calle Campezo n° 1, Edificio 8, 28022 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Belen Castillo-Cano
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), Calle Campezo n° 1, Edificio 8, 28022 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mar Martín-Perez
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), Calle Campezo n° 1, Edificio 8, 28022 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Llorente-García
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), Calle Campezo n° 1, Edificio 8, 28022 Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolores Montero-Corominas
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), Calle Campezo n° 1, Edificio 8, 28022 Madrid, Spain
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Viral Infections and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: New Players in an Old Story. Viruses 2021; 13:v13020277. [PMID: 33670195 PMCID: PMC7916951 DOI: 10.3390/v13020277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A causal link between viral infections and autoimmunity has been studied for a long time and the role of some viruses in the induction or exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in genetically predisposed patients has been proved. The strength of the association between different viral agents and SLE is variable. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), parvovirus B19 (B19V), and human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are involved in SLE pathogenesis, whereas other viruses such as Cytomegalovirus (CMV) probably play a less prominent role. However, the mechanisms of viral-host interactions and the impact of viruses on disease course have yet to be elucidated. In addition to classical mechanisms of viral-triggered autoimmunity, such as molecular mimicry and epitope spreading, there has been a growing appreciation of the role of direct activation of innate response by viral nucleic acids and epigenetic modulation of interferon-related immune response. The latter is especially important for HERVs, which may represent the molecular link between environmental triggers and critical immune genes. Virus-specific proteins modulating interaction with the host immune system have been characterized especially for Epstein-Barr virus and explain immune evasion, persistent infection and self-reactive B-cell "immortalization". Knowledge has also been expanding on key viral proteins of B19-V and CMV and their possible association with specific phenotypes such as antiphospholipid syndrome. This progress may pave the way to new therapeutic perspectives, including the use of known or new antiviral drugs, postviral immune response modulation and innate immunity inhibition. We herein describe the state-of-the-art knowledge on the role of viral infections in SLE, with a focus on their mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic targets.
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Vojdani A, Vojdani E, Kharrazian D. Reaction of Human Monoclonal Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 Proteins With Tissue Antigens: Implications for Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 11:617089. [PMID: 33584709 PMCID: PMC7873987 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.617089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We sought to determine whether immune reactivity occurs between anti-SARS-CoV-2 protein antibodies and human tissue antigens, and whether molecular mimicry between COVID-19 viral proteins and human tissues could be the cause. We applied both human monoclonal anti-SARS-Cov-2 antibodies (spike protein, nucleoprotein) and rabbit polyclonal anti-SARS-Cov-2 antibodies (envelope protein, membrane protein) to 55 different tissue antigens. We found that SARS-CoV-2 antibodies had reactions with 28 out of 55 tissue antigens, representing a diversity of tissue groups that included barrier proteins, gastrointestinal, thyroid and neural tissues, and more. We also did selective epitope mapping using BLAST and showed similarities and homology between spike, nucleoprotein, and many other SARS-CoV-2 proteins with the human tissue antigens mitochondria M2, F-actin and TPO. This extensive immune cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and different antigen groups may play a role in the multi-system disease process of COVID-19, influence the severity of the disease, precipitate the onset of autoimmunity in susceptible subgroups, and potentially exacerbate autoimmunity in subjects that have pre-existing autoimmune diseases. Very recently, human monoclonal antibodies were approved for use on patients with COVID-19. The human monoclonal antibodies used in this study are almost identical with these approved antibodies. Thus, our results can establish the potential risk for autoimmunity and multi-system disorders with COVID-19 that may come from cross-reactivity between our own human tissues and this dreaded virus, and thus ensure that the badly-needed vaccines and treatments being developed for it are truly safe to use against this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristo Vojdani
- Department of Immunology, Immunosciences Laboratory, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Preventive Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | | | - Datis Kharrazian
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, United States
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14
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David P, Shoenfeld Y. Human papillomavirus vaccine safety in systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Lupus 2020; 29:1485-1486. [PMID: 32746683 DOI: 10.1177/0961203320946375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paula David
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated to Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated to Tel-Aviv University, Israel.,Laboratory of the Mosaics of Autoimmunity, Sechenow Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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Donmez HG, Cagan M, Fadiloglu E, Unal C, Onder SC, Beksac MS. Is bacterial vaginosis associated with autoimmune antibody positivity? Cytopathology 2020; 31:298-302. [PMID: 32358984 DOI: 10.1111/cyt.12846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and autoimmune antibody positivity. METHOD We evaluated Papanicolaou-stained cervicovaginal smears of 210 patients with poor obstetric history who were admitted to a special preconception counselling programme. Cytological specimens with various types of microorganisms except for BV, epithelial cell abnormalities and other non-neoplastic findings, including inflammation were excluded from the cohort in addition to patients with autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. The remaining study population (n = 121) was divided into two groups of patients with autoimmune antibody positivity (study group, n = 80) and patients without antibody positivity (control group, n = 41). RESULTS The rate of BV was demonstrated to be 13.8% and 2.4% in the study and control groups respectively (P = .042). We also demonstrated that the anti-nuclear antibody was positive in 58.3% of the cases with BV. CONCLUSION BV was found more frequently in patients with autoimmune antibody positivity to a statistically significant degree.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Murat Cagan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Erdem Fadiloglu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Canan Unal
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Mehmet Sinan Beksac
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Talotta R, Atzeni F, Laska MJ. Therapeutic peptides for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus: a place in therapy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:845-867. [PMID: 32500750 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1777983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies in vitro and in vivo have identified several peptides that are potentially useful in treating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The rationale for their use lies in the cost-effective production, high potency, target selectivity, low toxicity, and a peculiar mechanism of action that is mainly based on the induction of immune tolerance. Three therapeutic peptides have entered clinical development, but they have yielded disappointing results. However, some subsets of patients, such as those with the positivity of anti-dsDNA antibodies, appear more likely to respond to these medications. AREAS COVERED This review evaluates the potential use of therapeutic peptides for SLE and gives an opinion on how they may offer advantages for SLE treatment. EXPERT OPINION Given their acceptable safety profile, therapeutic peptides could be added to agents traditionally used to treat SLE and this may offer a synergistic and drug-sparing effect, especially in selected patient populations. Moreover, they could temporarily be utilized to manage SLE flares, or be administered as a vaccine in subjects at risk. Efforts to ameliorate bioavailability, increase the half-life and prevent immunogenicity are ongoing. The formulation of hybrid compounds, like peptibodies or peptidomimetic small molecules, is expected to yield renewed treatments with a better pharmacologic profile and increased efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Talotta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera "Gaetano Martino", University of Messina , Messina, Italy
| | - Fabiola Atzeni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera "Gaetano Martino", University of Messina , Messina, Italy
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Vojdani A, Vojdani E, Kharrazian D. Reaction of Human Monoclonal Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 Proteins With Tissue Antigens: Implications for Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2020; 11:617089. [PMID: 33584709 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.617089/full] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
We sought to determine whether immune reactivity occurs between anti-SARS-CoV-2 protein antibodies and human tissue antigens, and whether molecular mimicry between COVID-19 viral proteins and human tissues could be the cause. We applied both human monoclonal anti-SARS-Cov-2 antibodies (spike protein, nucleoprotein) and rabbit polyclonal anti-SARS-Cov-2 antibodies (envelope protein, membrane protein) to 55 different tissue antigens. We found that SARS-CoV-2 antibodies had reactions with 28 out of 55 tissue antigens, representing a diversity of tissue groups that included barrier proteins, gastrointestinal, thyroid and neural tissues, and more. We also did selective epitope mapping using BLAST and showed similarities and homology between spike, nucleoprotein, and many other SARS-CoV-2 proteins with the human tissue antigens mitochondria M2, F-actin and TPO. This extensive immune cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and different antigen groups may play a role in the multi-system disease process of COVID-19, influence the severity of the disease, precipitate the onset of autoimmunity in susceptible subgroups, and potentially exacerbate autoimmunity in subjects that have pre-existing autoimmune diseases. Very recently, human monoclonal antibodies were approved for use on patients with COVID-19. The human monoclonal antibodies used in this study are almost identical with these approved antibodies. Thus, our results can establish the potential risk for autoimmunity and multi-system disorders with COVID-19 that may come from cross-reactivity between our own human tissues and this dreaded virus, and thus ensure that the badly-needed vaccines and treatments being developed for it are truly safe to use against this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristo Vojdani
- Department of Immunology, Immunosciences Laboratory, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | | | - Datis Kharrazian
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, United States
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Sharif K, Watad A, Bridgewood C, Kanduc D, Amital H, Shoenfeld Y. Insights into the autoimmune aspect of premature ovarian insufficiency. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 33:101323. [PMID: 31606343 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2019.101323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) refers to a continuum of decreasing ovarian function in women before the age of 40. To date, the cause of POI in the majority of cases remain unresolved. Many cases has been linked to genetic, toxic, infections, enzymatic and iatrogenic causes. A key function of the immune system is to identify and differentiate "self" and "non self" i.e. tolerance. Loss of self-tolerance results in an immune response against self-tissues and thus autoimmunity. Various investigations have highlighted the role of autoimmunity and its pertinence to POI. Several potential immune antigenic targets in the ovary have been reported to be involved in autoantibody induced autoimmune attack. The presence of lymphocytic oöphorits in ovarian samples of patients with POI provides histopathological evidence of autoimmune ovarian involvement. Finally, POI is strongly associated with other autoimmune conditions including for instance Addison disease, autoimmune polyglandular syndrome (APS) -1, APS-4, hypothyroidism, and diabetes mellitus among other autoimmune diseases. Taken together, these lines of evidence provide strong basis that support the role of autoimmunity as a potential cause of disease etiopathogenesis. Continuing research is increasingly providing more insight into the complex disease process. The aim of this review is to summarize the current literature related to the autoimmune nature of POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassem Sharif
- Department of Medicine 'B', Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel; Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Abdulla Watad
- Department of Medicine 'B', Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Charlie Bridgewood
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Darja Kanduc
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Howard Amital
- Department of Medicine 'B', Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Russia.
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Qiu CC, Caricchio R, Gallucci S. Triggers of Autoimmunity: The Role of Bacterial Infections in the Extracellular Exposure of Lupus Nuclear Autoantigens. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2608. [PMID: 31781110 PMCID: PMC6857005 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections are considered important environmental triggers of autoimmunity and can contribute to autoimmune disease onset and severity. Nucleic acids and the complexes that they form with proteins—including chromatin and ribonucleoproteins—are the main autoantigens in the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). How these nuclear molecules become available to the immune system for recognition, presentation, and targeting is an area of research where complexities remain to be disentangled. In this review, we discuss how bacterial infections participate in the exposure of nuclear autoantigens to the immune system in SLE. Infections can instigate pro-inflammatory cell death programs including pyroptosis and NETosis, induce extracellular release of host nuclear autoantigens, and promote their recognition in an immunogenic context by activating the innate and adaptive immune systems. Moreover, bacterial infections can release bacterial DNA associated with other bacterial molecules, complexes that can elicit autoimmunity by acting as innate stimuli of pattern recognition receptors and activating autoreactive B cells through molecular mimicry. Recent studies have highlighted SLE disease activity-associated alterations of the gut commensals and the expansion of pathobionts that can contribute to chronic exposure to extracellular nuclear autoantigens. A novel field in the study of autoimmunity is the contribution of bacterial biofilms to the pathogenesis of autoimmunity. Biofilms are multicellular communities of bacteria that promote colonization during chronic infections. We review the very recent literature highlighting a role for bacterial biofilms, and their major components, amyloid/DNA complexes, in the generation of anti-nuclear autoantibodies and their ability to stimulate the autoreactive immune response. The best studied bacterial amyloid is curli, produced by enteric bacteria that commonly cause infections in SLE patients, including Escherichia coli and Salmonella spps. Evidence suggests that curli/DNA complexes can trigger autoimmunity by acting as danger signals, molecular mimickers, and microbial chaperones of nucleic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie C Qiu
- Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Roberto Caricchio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Stefania Gallucci
- Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Segerberg F, Lundtoft C, Reid S, Hjorton K, Leonard D, Nordmark G, Carlsten M, Hagberg N. Autoantibodies to Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-Like Receptors in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Induce Natural Killer Cell Hyporesponsiveness. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2164. [PMID: 31572377 PMCID: PMC6749077 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity toward self-cells is restrained by the inhibitory HLA class I-binding receptors CD94/NKG2A and the killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs). CD94/NKG2A and KIRs are also essential for NK cell education, which is a dynamic functional maturation process where a constitutive binding of inhibitory receptors to cognate HLA class I molecules is required for NK cells to maintain their full cytotoxic capacity. Previously, we described autoantibodies to CD94/NKG2A in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study we analyzed sera from 191 patients with SLE, 119 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), 48 patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), and 100 healthy donors (HD) for autoantibodies to eight different KIRs. Anti-KIR autoantibodies were identified in sera from 23.0% of patients with SLE, 10.9% of patients with pSS, 12.5% of patients with SSc, and 3.0% of HD. IgG from anti-KIR-positive SLE patients reduced the degranulation and cytotoxicity of NK cells toward K562 tumor cells. The presence of anti-KIR-autoantibodies reacting with >3 KIRs was associated with an increased disease activity (p < 0.0001), elevated serum levels of IFN-α (p < 0.0001), nephritis (p = 0.001), and the presence of anti-Sm (p = 0.007), and anti-RNP (p = 0.003) autoantibodies in serum. Together these findings suggest that anti-KIR autoantibodies may contribute to the reduced function of NK cells in SLE patients, and that a defective NK cell function may be a risk factor for the development of lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Segerberg
- Department of Medicine, Center for Haematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christian Lundtoft
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sarah Reid
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Hjorton
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dag Leonard
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnel Nordmark
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mattias Carlsten
- Department of Medicine, Center for Haematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Niklas Hagberg
- Rheumatology and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Molecular mimicry, genetic homology, and gene sharing proteomic "molecular fingerprints" using an EBV (Epstein-Barr virus)-derived microarray as a potential diagnostic method in autoimmune disease. Immunol Res 2019; 66:686-695. [PMID: 30552620 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-018-9045-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
EBV (Epstein-Barr Virus) and other human DNA viruses are associated with autoimmune syndromes in epidemiologic studies. In this work, immunoglobulin G response to EBV-encoded proteins which share regions with human immune response proteins from the human host including ZEBRA (BZLF-1 encoded protein), BALF-2 recombinase expressed primarily during the viral lytic replication cycle, and EBNA-1 (Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen) expressed during the viral latency cycle respectively were characterized using a laser-printed micro-array ( PEPperprint.com ). IgG response to conserved "A/T hooks" in EBV-encoded proteins such as EBNA-1 and the BALF-2 recombinase related to host DNA-binding proteins including RAG-1 recombinase and histones, and EBV-encoded virokines such as the IL-10 homologue BCRF-1 suggest further directions for clinical research. The author suggests that proteomic "molecular fingerprints" of the immune response to viral proteins shared with human immune response genes are potentially useful in early diagnosis and monitoring of autoantibody production and response to therapy in EBV-related autoimmune syndromes.
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22
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Bednarczyk RA. Addressing HPV vaccine myths: practical information for healthcare providers. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2019; 15:1628-1638. [PMID: 30676241 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2019.1565267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake consistently lags behind that of other adolescent vaccines. In 2017, uptake of a single HPV vaccine dose and HPV vaccine series completion was 66% and 49%, respectively, compared to uptake of tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis vaccine (89%) and quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (85%). Reasons for not vaccinating adolescents again HPV are varied, and in many cases, are rooted in commonly spread myths and misperceptions about the vaccine. In this review, we address five key myths - HPV vaccination is not effective at preventing cancer; Pap smears are sufficient to prevent cervical cancer; HPV vaccination is not safe; HPV vaccination is not needed since most infections are naturally cleared by the immune system; 11-12 years of age is too young to vaccinate. For each myth, we summarize the scientific evidence refuting the myth and provide speaking prompts for healthcare professionals to communicate about HPV vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Bednarczyk
- a Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University , Atlanta GA , USA.,b Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University , Atlanta GA , USA.,c Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University , Atlanta GA , USA.,d Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University , Atlanta GA , USA
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García-Carrasco M, Mendoza-Pinto C, Rojas-Villarraga A, Molano-González N, Vallejo-Ruiz V, Munguía-Realpozo P, Colombo AL, Cervera R. Prevalence of cervical HPV infection in women with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:184-191. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Bragazzi NL, Bridgewood C, Sharif K, Kamal M, Amital H, Watad A, Shoenfeld Y. HPV vaccines and lupus: current approaches towards preventing adverse immune cross-reactivity. Expert Rev Vaccines 2018; 18:31-42. [PMID: 30526148 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2019.1557519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION If not properly treated, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection may evolve from a common sexually transmitted disease to genital warts and cervical cancer. Various prophylactic HPV vaccines (HPVv), approved to reduce the incidence of the infection, have been found to be effective and safe; however, accounts of post-vaccination autoimmune phenomena, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), have been reported in genetically susceptible individuals. AREAS COVERED Infectious agents play a role in breaking the immunologic tolerance to self-antigens, resulting in autoimmune events. There is molecular evidence supporting the involvement of HPV in SLE, with a high prevalence of L1 HPV peptide homology to proteins being associated with SLE. Therefore, approaches in vaccine preparations aiming to prevent adverse immune cross-reactivity are sought. Performing a broad search of the literature, we review the association between SLE, HPV, and HPVv, with a focus on the mechanisms of molecular mimicry and cross-reactivity, and the approaches currently being elaborated towards preventing such phenomena. EXPERT COMMENTARY The advantages of using low-similarity peptide antigens may be two-fold, abolishing the risk of cross-reactivity and eliminating the vaccine adjuvantation procedure. Vaccines based on pathogen unique sequences would provide effective vaccine preparation while curbing the risk for the human host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola L Bragazzi
- a Postgraduate School of Public Health, Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL) , University of Genoa , Genoa , Italy
| | - Charlie Bridgewood
- b Section of Musculoskeletal Disease, Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine , University of Leeds, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Chapel Allerton Hospital , Leeds , UK
| | - Kassem Sharif
- c Department of Medicine B and Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Sackler Faculty of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University , Tel-Aviv , Israel
| | - Mohamad Kamal
- c Department of Medicine B and Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Sackler Faculty of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University , Tel-Aviv , Israel
| | - Howard Amital
- c Department of Medicine B and Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Sackler Faculty of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University , Tel-Aviv , Israel
| | - Abdulla Watad
- b Section of Musculoskeletal Disease, Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine , University of Leeds, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Chapel Allerton Hospital , Leeds , UK.,c Department of Medicine B and Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Sackler Faculty of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University , Tel-Aviv , Israel
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- c Department of Medicine B and Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Sackler Faculty of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University , Tel-Aviv , Israel
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Rojas M, Restrepo-Jiménez P, Monsalve DM, Pacheco Y, Acosta-Ampudia Y, Ramírez-Santana C, Leung PS, Ansari AA, Gershwin ME, Anaya JM. Molecular mimicry and autoimmunity. J Autoimmun 2018; 95:100-123. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2018.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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26
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Shi LH, Huang JY, Liu YZ, Chiou JY, Wu R, Wei JCC. Risk of systemic lupus erythematosus in patients with human papillomavirus infection: a population-based retrospective cohort study. Lupus 2018; 27:2279-2283. [PMID: 30451639 DOI: 10.1177/0961203318809179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Viral infection contributing to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) development has been largely reported. However, the SLE risk in patients with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is unknown. Methods: Data were retrieved from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database (2000) in Taiwan. We identified 43,567 patients with HPV infection and 174,268 age- and sex-matched uninfected controls from 2002 to 2012. Individuals were followed up from index date (first date of diagnosis with HPV) until the occurrence of SLE, at the end of the study (December 2013), or when they were withdrawn from the insurance program. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) was calculated using the univariate Poisson regression. The adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) were calculated, and sensitive and subgroups analyses were also conducted. Results: Compared with the non-HPV controls, the IRR of SLE in HPV patients was 1.52 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09–2.12). The risk of SLE in HPV-infected individuals was significantly high (aHR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.06–2.06) after adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidities. Men aged between 16 and 45 years were more susceptible to developing SLE (aHR: 21.57, 95% CI: 2.52–184.60, p = 0.0051). Conclusion: Our study showed a significantly higher risk of SLE among HPV-infected patients, especially in men aged between 16 and 45 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- L-H Shi
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - J-Y Huang
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung
| | - Y-Z Liu
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - J-Y Chiou
- School of Health Policy and Management, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung
| | - R Wu
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - J C-C Wei
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung
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Segal Y, Shoenfeld Y. Vaccine-induced autoimmunity: the role of molecular mimicry and immune crossreaction. Cell Mol Immunol 2018; 15:586-594. [PMID: 29503439 PMCID: PMC6078966 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2017.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the early 1800s vaccines have saved numerous lives by preventing lethal infections. However, during the past two decades, there has been growing awareness of possible adverse events associated with vaccinations, cultivating heated debates and leading to significant fluctuations in vaccination rates. It is therefore pertinent for the scientific community to seriously address public concern of adverse effects of vaccines to regain public trust in these important medical interventions. Such adverse reactions to vaccines may be viewed as a result of the interaction between susceptibility of the vaccinated subject and various vaccine components. Among the implicated mechanisms for these reactions is molecular mimicry. Molecular mimicry refers to a significant similarity between certain pathogenic elements contained in the vaccine and specific human proteins. This similarity may lead to immune crossreactivity, wherein the reaction of the immune system towards the pathogenic antigens may harm the similar human proteins, essentially causing autoimmune disease. In this review, we address the concept of molecular mimicry and its application in explaining post vaccination autoimmune phenomena. We further review the principal examples of the influenza, hepatitis B, and human papilloma virus vaccines, all suspected to induce autoimmunity via molecular mimicry. Finally, we refer to possible implications on the potential future development of better, safer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahel Segal
- Department of Medicine B, Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Gan, 52621, Israel
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Department of Medicine B, Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Gan, 52621, Israel.
- Incumbent of the Laura Schwarz-Kipp Chair for Research of Autoimmune Diseases, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Gan, Israel.
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28
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The value of Autoimmune Syndrome Induced by Adjuvant (ASIA) - Shedding light on orphan diseases in autoimmunity. Autoimmun Rev 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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29
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Dahan S, Segal Y, Watad A, Azrielant S, Shemer A, Maymon D, Stroev YI, Sobolevskaya PA, Korneva EA, Blank M, Gilburd B, Shovman O, Amital H, Ehrenfeld M, Tanay A, Kivity S, Pras E, Chapman J, Damoiseaux J, Cervera R, Putterman C, Shapiro I, Mouthon L, Perricone R, Bizzaro N, Koren O, Riemekasten G, Chereshnev VA, Mazurov VI, Goloviznin M, Gurevich V, Churilov LP, Shoenfeld Y. Novelties in the field of autoimmunity – 1st Saint Petersburg congress of autoimmunity, the bridge between east and west. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:1175-1184. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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30
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Choi MY, Flood K, Bernatsky S, Ramsey-Goldman R, Clarke AE. A review on SLE and malignancy. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2017; 31:373-396. [PMID: 29224679 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2017.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibody production, complement activation, and immune complex deposition. It predominantly affects young and middle-aged women. While improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of SLE have altered prognosis, morbidity and mortality rates remain higher than the general population. In addition to renal injury, cardiovascular disease, and infection, malignancy is known to be a significant cause of death in this population. There is increasing evidence to suggest that patients with SLE have a slightly higher overall risk of malignancy. The risk of malignancy in SLE is of considerable interest because the immune and genetic pathways underlying the pathogenesis of SLE and the immunosuppressant drugs (ISDs) used in its management may mediate this altered risk. Our current understanding of these and other risk factors and the implications for treating SLE and screening for malignancy is still evolving. This review summarizes the association between SLE and malignancy. The first section discusses the risk of overall and site-specific malignancies in both adult- and pediatric-onset SLE. Next, we evaluate the risk factors and possible mechanisms underlying the link between malignancy and SLE, including the use of ISDs, presence of certain SLE-related autoantibodies, chronic immune dysregulation, environmental factors, and shared genetic susceptibility. Finally, we review guidelines regarding cancer screening and vaccination for human papilloma virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- May Y Choi
- Division of Rheumatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, T2N 4N1, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Kelsey Flood
- Northwestern University and Feinberg School of Medicine, 420 E Superior St, Chicago, 60611, Illinois, USA.
| | - Sasha Bernatsky
- Divisions of Rheumatology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, A6-1650 Cedar Avenue A6.163, Montreal, H3G 1A4, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Rosalind Ramsey-Goldman
- Division of Rheumatology, Northwestern University and Feinberg School of Medicine, 633 N. St. Clair, 18th Floor, Chicago, 60611, Illinois, USA.
| | - Ann E Clarke
- Division of Rheumatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, T2N 4N1, Alberta, Canada.
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31
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Bragazzi NL, Watad A, Sharif K, Adawi M, Aljadeff G, Amital H, Shoenfeld Y. Advances in our understanding of immunization and vaccines for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2017; 13:939-949. [DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2017.1361321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- School of Public Health, Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Abdulla Watad
- Departement of Medicine ‘B’, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Kassem Sharif
- Departement of Medicine ‘B’, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Mohammad Adawi
- Faculty of Medicine, Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Bar-Ilan University, Israel
| | - Gali Aljadeff
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Howard Amital
- Departement of Medicine ‘B’, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Departement of Medicine ‘B’, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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33
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Editorial: Cutting edge in systemic lupus erythematosus. Immunol Res 2017; 65:429-431. [PMID: 28303447 PMCID: PMC5434150 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-017-8910-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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