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Apostolo D, D’Onghia D, Nerviani A, Ghirardi GM, Sola D, Perazzi M, Tonello S, Colangelo D, Sainaghi PP, Bellan M. Could Gas6/TAM Axis Provide Valuable Insights into the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis? Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:7486-7504. [PMID: 39057085 PMCID: PMC11275301 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46070444] [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: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder characterized by microvascular injury, extracellular matrix deposition, autoimmunity, inflammation, and fibrosis. The clinical complexity and high heterogeneity of the disease make the discovery of potential therapeutic targets difficult. However, the recent progress in the comprehension of its pathogenesis is encouraging. Growth Arrest-Specific 6 (Gas6) and Tyro3, Axl, and MerTK (TAM) receptors are involved in multiple biological processes, including modulation of the immune response, phagocytosis, apoptosis, fibrosis, inflammation, cancer development, and autoimmune disorders. In the present manuscript, we review the current evidence regarding SSc pathogenesis and the role of the Gas6/TAM system in several human diseases, suggesting its likely contribution in SSc and highlighting areas where further research is necessary to fully comprehend the role of TAM receptors in this condition. Indeed, understanding the involvement of TAM receptors in SSc, which is currently unknown, could provide valuable insights for novel potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Apostolo
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy; (D.A.); (D.D.); (D.S.); (M.P.); (S.T.); (P.P.S.); (M.B.)
- Centre for Experimental Medicine and Rheumatology, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK;
| | - Davide D’Onghia
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy; (D.A.); (D.D.); (D.S.); (M.P.); (S.T.); (P.P.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Alessandra Nerviani
- Centre for Experimental Medicine and Rheumatology, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK;
| | - Giulia Maria Ghirardi
- Centre for Experimental Medicine and Rheumatology, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK;
| | - Daniele Sola
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy; (D.A.); (D.D.); (D.S.); (M.P.); (S.T.); (P.P.S.); (M.B.)
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, UO General Medicine, 28824 Oggebbio, Italy
| | - Mattia Perazzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy; (D.A.); (D.D.); (D.S.); (M.P.); (S.T.); (P.P.S.); (M.B.)
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, A.O.U. Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Stelvio Tonello
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy; (D.A.); (D.D.); (D.S.); (M.P.); (S.T.); (P.P.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Donato Colangelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Pharmacology, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy; (D.A.); (D.D.); (D.S.); (M.P.); (S.T.); (P.P.S.); (M.B.)
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, A.O.U. Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy; (D.A.); (D.D.); (D.S.); (M.P.); (S.T.); (P.P.S.); (M.B.)
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, A.O.U. Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Chen DY, Tzang CC, Liu CM, Chiu TM, Lin JW, Chuang PH, Kuo CW, Tzang BS, Hsu TC. Effect of the Functional VP1 Unique Region of Human Parvovirus B19 in Causing Skin Fibrosis of Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15294. [PMID: 37894973 PMCID: PMC10607574 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human parvovirus B19 (B19V) is a single-stranded non-enveloped DNA virus of the family Parvoviridae that has been associated with various autoimmune disorders. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disorder with high mortality and has been linked to B19V infection. However, the precise mechanism underlying the B19V contribution to the development of SSc remains uncertain. This study investigated the impacts of the functional B19V-VP1 unique region (VP1u) in macrophages and bleomycin (BLE)-induced SSc mice. Cell experimental data showed that significantly decreased viability and migration of both B19V-VP1u-treated U937 and THP-1 macrophages are detected in the presence of celastrol. Significantly increased MMP9 activity and elevated NF-kB, MMP9, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β expressions were detected in both B19V-VP1u-treated U937 and THP-1 macrophages. Conversely, celastrol revealed an inhibitory effect on these molecules. Notably, celastrol intervened in this pathogenic process by suppressing the sPLA2 activity of B19V-VP1u and subsequently reducing the inflammatory response. Notably, the administration of B19V-VP1u exacerbated BLE-induced skin fibrosis in mice, with augmented expressions of TGF-β, IL-6, IL-17A, IL-18, and TNF-α, ultimately leading to α-SMA and collagen I deposits in the dermal regions of BLE-induced SSc mice. Altogether, this study sheds light on parvovirus B19 VP1u linked to scleroderma and aggravated dermal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Der-Yuan Chen
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (D.-Y.C.); (C.-M.L.); (T.-M.C.); (J.-W.L.); (P.-H.C.); (C.-W.K.)
- College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, Rheumatology and Immunology Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chen Tzang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 100, Taiwan;
| | - Chuan-Ming Liu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (D.-Y.C.); (C.-M.L.); (T.-M.C.); (J.-W.L.); (P.-H.C.); (C.-W.K.)
| | - Tsu-Man Chiu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (D.-Y.C.); (C.-M.L.); (T.-M.C.); (J.-W.L.); (P.-H.C.); (C.-W.K.)
- Department of Dermatology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Jhen-Wei Lin
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (D.-Y.C.); (C.-M.L.); (T.-M.C.); (J.-W.L.); (P.-H.C.); (C.-W.K.)
| | - Pei-Hua Chuang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (D.-Y.C.); (C.-M.L.); (T.-M.C.); (J.-W.L.); (P.-H.C.); (C.-W.K.)
| | - Chia-Wei Kuo
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (D.-Y.C.); (C.-M.L.); (T.-M.C.); (J.-W.L.); (P.-H.C.); (C.-W.K.)
| | - Bor-Show Tzang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (D.-Y.C.); (C.-M.L.); (T.-M.C.); (J.-W.L.); (P.-H.C.); (C.-W.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Immunology Research Center, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Ching Hsu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (D.-Y.C.); (C.-M.L.); (T.-M.C.); (J.-W.L.); (P.-H.C.); (C.-W.K.)
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Immunology Research Center, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
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Afrasiabi A, Ahlenstiel C, Swaminathan S, Parnell GP. The interaction between Epstein-Barr virus and multiple sclerosis genetic risk loci: insights into disease pathogenesis and therapeutic opportunities. Clin Transl Immunology 2023; 12:e1454. [PMID: 37337612 PMCID: PMC10276892 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative autoimmune disease, characterised by the demyelination of neurons in the central nervous system. Whilst it is unclear what precisely leads to MS, it is believed that genetic predisposition combined with environmental factors plays a pivotal role. It is estimated that close to half the disease risk is determined by genetic factors. However, the risk of developing MS cannot be attributed to genetic factors alone, and environmental factors are likely to play a significant role by themselves or in concert with host genetics. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is the strongest known environmental risk factor for MS. There has been increasing evidence that leaves little doubt that EBV is necessary, but not sufficient, for developing MS. One plausible explanation is EBV may alter the host immune response in the presence of MS risk alleles and this contributes to the pathogenesis of MS. In this review, we discuss recent findings regarding how EBV infection may contribute to MS pathogenesis via interactions with genetic risk loci and discuss possible therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Afrasiabi
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
- The Graduate School of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Chantelle Ahlenstiel
- Kirby InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
- RNA InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Sanjay Swaminathan
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
- Department of MedicineWestern Sydney UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Grant P Parnell
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
- Biomedical Informatics and Digital Health, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
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Zhao K, Kong C, Shi N, Jiang J, Li P. Potential angiogenic, immunomodulatory, and antifibrotic effects of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles in systemic sclerosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1125257. [PMID: 37251412 PMCID: PMC10213547 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1125257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an intricate systemic autoimmune disease with pathological features such as vascular injury, immune dysregulation, and extensive fibrosis of the skin and multiple organs. Treatment options are limited; however, recently, mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) have been acknowledged in preclinical and clinical trials as being useful in treating autoimmune diseases and are likely superior to MSCs alone. Recent research has also shown that MSC-EVs can ameliorate SSc and the pathological changes in vasculopathy, immune dysfunction, and fibrosis. This review summarizes the therapeutic effects of MSC-EVs on SSc and the mechanisms that have been discovered to provide a theoretical basis for future studies on the role of MSC-EVs in treating SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chenfei Kong
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Naixu Shi
- Department of Stomatology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jinlan Jiang
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Pellicano C, Colalillo A, Cusano G, Palladino A, Pellegrini M, Callà CAM, Mazzuccato G, Carnazzo V, Pignalosa S, Di Biase L, Marino M, Basile U, Rosato E. Serum Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Subclasses in a Cohort of Systemic Sclerosis Patients. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13020309. [PMID: 36836543 PMCID: PMC9961548 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13020309] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) subclasses in a cohort of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and to evaluate the influence of IgG subclasses in the main complications of the disease. METHODS The serum level of IgG subclasses was evaluated in 67 SSc patients and 48 healthy controls (HC), matched for sex and age. Serum samples were collected and measured IgG1-4 subclasses by turbidimetry. RESULTS SSc patients had lower median total IgG [9.88 g/l (IQR 8.18-11.42 g/l) vs. 12.09 g/l (IQR 10.24-13.54 g/l), p < 0.001], IgG1 [5.09 g/l (IQR 4.25-6.38 g/l) vs. 6.03 g/l (IQR 5.39-7.90 g/l), p < 0.001], and IgG3 [0.59 g/l (IQR 0.40-0.77 g/l) vs. 0.80 g/l (IQR 0.46-1 g/l), p < 0.05] serum levels compared to HC. The logistic regression analysis showed IgG3 as the only variable associated with the diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLco) ≤60% of the predicted [OR 9.734 (CI 95%: 1.312-72.221), p < 0.05] and modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) [OR 1.124 (CI 95%: 1.019-1.240), p < 0.05], anti-topoisomerase I [OR 0.060 (CI 95%: 0.007-0.535), p < 0.05], and IgG3 [OR 14.062 (CI 95%: 1.352-146.229), p < 0.05] as variables associated with radiological interstitial lung disease (ILD). CONCLUSION SSc patients have reduced levels of total IgG and an altered IgG subclass distribution compared to HC. Moreover, SSc patients show different serum IgG subclasses profiles according to the main involvement of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pellicano
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Amalia Colalillo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Cusano
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Palladino
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marica Pellegrini
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Anna Maria Callà
- Dipartimento di Scienze Laboratoristiche ed Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Mazzuccato
- Dipartimento di Scienze Laboratoristiche ed Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Carnazzo
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, AUSL Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Stefano Pignalosa
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, AUSL Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Luigi Di Biase
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, AUSL Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Mariapaola Marino
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Basile
- Dipartimento di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Santa Maria Goretti, AUSL Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Edoardo Rosato
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 37, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Blum FR, Sampath AJ, Gilbert AL, Foulke GT. Diffuse systemic sclerosis following COVID-19 infection. Scand J Rheumatol 2023; 52:99-101. [PMID: 35946910 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2022.2103935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F R Blum
- Department of Dermatology, UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - A J Sampath
- Department of Dermatology, UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - A L Gilbert
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Thurston Arthritis Research Center, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - G T Foulke
- Department of Dermatology, UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Yazdanpanah N, Rezaei N. Autoimmune disorders associated with common variable immunodeficiency: prediction, diagnosis, and treatment. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:1265-1283. [PMID: 36197300 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2132938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most common symptomatic primary immunodeficiency. Due to the wide spectrum of the CVID manifestations, the differential diagnosis becomes complicated, ends in a diagnostic delay and increased morbidity and mortality rates. Autoimmunity is one of the important complications associated with CVID. While immunoglobulin replacement therapy has considerably decreased the mortality rate in CVID patients, mainly infection-related mortality, other complications such as autoimmunity appeared prevalent and, in some cases, life threatening. AREAS COVERED In this article, genetics, responsible immune defects, autoimmune manifestations in different organs, and the diagnosis and treatment processes in CVID patients are reviewed, after searching the literature about these topics. EXPERT OPINION Considering the many phenotypes of CVID and the fact that it remained undiagnosed until older ages, it is important to include various manifestations of CVID in the differential diagnosis. Due to the different manifestations of CVID, including autoimmune diseases, interdisciplinary collaboration of physicians from different fields is highly recommended, as discussed in the manuscript. Meanwhile, it is important to determine which patients could benefit from genetic diagnostic studies since such studies are not necessary for establishing the diagnosis of CVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloufar Yazdanpanah
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Kakkar V, Assassi S, Allanore Y, Kuwana M, Denton CP, Khanna D, Del Galdo F. Type 1 interferon activation in systemic sclerosis: a biomarker, a target or the culprit. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2022; 34:357-364. [PMID: 36125916 PMCID: PMC9594133 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Activation of the type 1 interferon (T1 IFN) pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) by an increasing number of studies, most of which share key findings with similar studies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here we will focus on the evidence for T1 IFN activation and dysregulation in SSc, and the rationale behind targeting the pathway going forward. RECENT FINDINGS An increased expression and activation of T1 IFN-regulated genes has been shown to be present in a significant proportion of SSc patients. TI IFN activation markers have been found to predict and correlate with response to immunosuppressive treatment as well as severity of organ involvement. As inhibition of the IFN-α receptor has been proven to be effective in active SLE, benefit may be seen in targeting the IFN pathway in SSc. SUMMARY The role played by T1 IFN and its regulatory genes in SSc is becoming increasingly evident and strikingly similar to the role observed in SLE. This observation, together with the benefit of type 1 IFN targeting in SLE, supports the notion of a potential therapeutic benefit in targeting T1 IFN in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Kakkar
- Department of Rheumatology, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Shervin Assassi
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yannick Allanore
- INSERM U1016 UMR 8104, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Masataka Kuwana
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Dinesh Khanna
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Department of Rheumatology, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Kobayashi S, Nagafuchi Y, Shoda H, Fujio K. The Pathophysiological Roles of Regulatory T Cells in the Early Phase of Systemic Sclerosis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:900638. [PMID: 35686127 PMCID: PMC9172592 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.900638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by vascular damage and fibrosis. Both clinical manifestations and immunological disturbances are diverse according to the disease duration. Particularly, changes in immunological processes are prominent in the early phase of SSc. The orchestration of several subsets of immune cells promotes autoimmune responses and inflammation, and eventually stimulates pro-fibrotic processes. Many reports have indicated that CD4+ T cells play pivotal roles in pathogenesis in the early phase of SSc. In particular, the pathogenic roles of regulatory T (Treg) cells have been investigated. Although the results were controversial, recent reports suggested an increase of Treg cells in the early phase of SSc patients. Treg cells secrete transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), which promotes myofibroblast activation and fibrosis. In addition, the dysfunction of Treg cells in the early phase of SSc was reported, which results in the development of autoimmunity and inflammation. Notably, Treg cells have the plasticity to convert to T-helper17 (Th17) cells under pro-inflammatory conditions. Th17 cells secrete IL-17A, which could also promote myofibroblast transformation and fibrosis and contributes to vasculopathy, although the issue is still controversial. Our recent transcriptomic comparison between the early and late phases of SSc revealed a clear difference of gene expression patterns only in Treg cells. The gene signature of an activated Treg cell subpopulation was expanded in the early phase of SSc and the oxidative phosphorylation pathway was enhanced, which can promote Th17 differentiation. And this result was accompanied by the increase in Th17 cells frequency. Therefore, an imbalance between Treg and Th17 cells could also have an important role in the pathogenesis of the early phase of SSc. In this review, we outlined the roles of Treg cells in the early phase of SSc, summarizing the data of both human and mouse models. The contributions of Treg cells to autoimmunity, vasculopathy, and fibrosis were revealed, based on the dysfunction and imbalance of Treg cells. We also referred to the potential development in treatment strategies in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satomi Kobayashi
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Itabashi-ku, Japan
| | - Yasuo Nagafuchi
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
- Department of Functional Genomics and Immunological Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Shoda
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
| | - Keishi Fujio
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
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10
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The Immunogenetics of Systemic Sclerosis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1367:259-298. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-92616-8_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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11
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Afrasiabi A, Keane JT, Ong LTC, Alinejad-Rokny H, Fewings NL, Booth DR, Parnell GP, Swaminathan S. Genetic and transcriptomic analyses support a switch to lytic phase in Epstein Barr virus infection as an important driver in developing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. J Autoimmun 2021; 127:102781. [PMID: 34952359 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2021.102781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the molecular mechanisms through which Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may contribute to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) pathogenesis, we interrogated SLE genetic risk loci for signatures of EBV infection. We first compared the gene expression profile of SLE risk genes across 459 different cell/tissue types. EBV-infected B cells (LCLs) had the strongest representation of highly expressed SLE risk genes. By determining an SLE risk allele effect on gene expression (expression quantitative trait loci, eQTL) in LCLs and 16 other immune cell types, we identified 79 SLE risk locus:gene pairs putatively interacting with EBV infection. A total of 10 SLE risk genes from this list (CD40, LYST, JAZF1, IRF5, BLK, IKZF2, IL12RB2, FAM167A, PTPRC and SLC15A) were targeted by the EBV transcription factor, EBNA2, differentially expressed between LCLs and B cells, and the majority were also associated with EBV DNA copy number, and expression level of EBV encoded genes. Our final gene network model based on these genes is suggestive of a nexus involving SLE risk loci and EBV latency III and B cell proliferation signalling pathways. Collectively, our findings provide further evidence to support the interaction between SLE risk loci and EBV infection that is in part mediated by EBNA2. This interplay may increase the tendency towards EBV lytic switching dependent on the presence of SLE risk alleles. These results support further investigation into targeting EBV as a therapeutic strategy for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Afrasiabi
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; BioMedical Machine Learning Lab (BML), The Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jeremy Thomas Keane
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lawrence T C Ong
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hamid Alinejad-Rokny
- BioMedical Machine Learning Lab (BML), The Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Health Data Analytics Program Leader, AI-enabled Processes (AIP) Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, 2109, Australia; Core Member of UNSW Data Science Hub, The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Nicole Louise Fewings
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Richmond Booth
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Grant Peter Parnell
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Biomedical Informatics and Digital Health, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Sanjay Swaminathan
- EBV Molecular Lab, Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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12
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Ferri C, Arcangeletti MC, Caselli E, Zakrzewska K, Maccari C, Calderaro A, D'Accolti M, Soffritti I, Arvia R, Sighinolfi G, Artoni E, Giuggioli D. Insights into the knowledge of complex diseases: Environmental infectious/toxic agents as potential etiopathogenetic factors of systemic sclerosis. J Autoimmun 2021; 124:102727. [PMID: 34601207 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2021.102727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease secondary to three cardinal pathological features: immune-system alterations, diffuse microangiopathy, and fibrosis involving the skin and internal organs. The etiology of SSc remains quite obscure; it may encompass multiple host genetic and environmental -infectious/chemical-factors. The present review focused on the potential role of environmental agents in the etiopathogenesis of SSc based on epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory investigations previously published in the world literature. Among infectious agents, some viruses that may persist and reactivate in infected individuals, namely human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6), and parvovirus B19 (B19V), and retroviruses have been proposed as potential causative agents of SSc. These viruses share a number of biological activities and consequent pathological alterations, such as endothelial dysfunction and/or fibroblast activation. Moreover, the acute worsening of pre-existing interstitial lung involvement observed in SSc patients with symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection might suggest a potential role of this virus in the overall disease outcome. A variety of chemical/occupational agents might be regarded as putative etiological factors of SSc. In this setting, the SSc complicating silica dust exposure represents one of the most promising models of study. Considering the complexity of SSc pathogenesis, none of suggested causative factors may explain the appearance of the whole SSc; it is likely that the disease is the result of a multifactorial and multistep pathogenetic process. A variable combination of potential etiological factors may modulate the appearance of different clinical phenotypes detectable in individual scleroderma patients. The in-deep investigations on the SSc etiopathogenesis may provide useful insights in the broad field of human diseases characterized by diffuse microangiopathy or altered fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clodoveo Ferri
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio E, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy; Rheumatology Unit, Casa di Cura Madonna dello Scoglio, Cotronei (KR), Italy.
| | | | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Krystyna Zakrzewska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Clara Maccari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria D'Accolti
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Irene Soffritti
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rosaria Arvia
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sighinolfi
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio E, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - Erica Artoni
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio E, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Dilia Giuggioli
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio E, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
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13
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Abstract
From the clinical standpoint, systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by skin and internal organ fibrosis, diffuse fibroproliferative vascular modifications, and autoimmunity. Clinical presentation and course are highly heterogenous and life expectancy variably affected mostly dependent on lung and heart involvement. SSc touches more women than men with differences in disease severity and environmental exposure. Pathogenetic events originate from altered homeostasis favored by genetic predisposition, environmental cues and a variety of endogenous and exogenous triggers. Epigenetic modifications modulate SSc pathogenesis which strikingly associate profound immune-inflammatory dysregulation, abnormal endothelial cell behavior, and cell trans-differentiation into myofibroblasts. SSc myofibroblasts show enhanced survival and enhanced extracellular matrix deposition presenting altered structure and altered physicochemical properties. Additional cell types of likely pathogenic importance are pericytes, platelets, and keratinocytes in conjunction with their relationship with vessel wall cells and fibroblasts. In SSc, the profibrotic milieu is favored by cell signaling initiated in the one hand by transforming growth factor-beta and related cytokines and in the other hand by innate and adaptive type 2 immune responses. Radical oxygen species and invariant receptors sensing danger participate to altered cell behavior. Conventional and SSc-specific T cell subsets modulate both fibroblasts as well as endothelial cell dysfunction. Beside autoantibodies directed against ubiquitous antigens important for enhanced clinical classification, antigen-specific agonistic autoantibodies may have a pathogenic role. Recent studies based on single-cell RNAseq and multi-omics approaches are revealing unforeseen heterogeneity in SSc cell differentiation and functional states. Advances in system biology applied to the wealth of data generated by unbiased screening are allowing to subgroup patients based on distinct pathogenic mechanisms. Deciphering heterogeneity in pathogenic mechanisms will pave the way to highly needed personalized therapeutic approaches.
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14
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Atabati E, Shariati Sarabi Z, Jokar MH, Hashemzadeh K, Mirfeizi Z. The Correlation between Helicobacter Pylori Infection and Disease Severity in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. Middle East J Dig Dis 2021; 13:253-258. [PMID: 36606216 PMCID: PMC9489457 DOI: 10.34172/mejdd.2021.232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a relatively common connective tissue disease, which is characterized by inflammation, progressive skin fibrosis, and injuries of small vessels, particularly in the lung and kidney. It seems that Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) might contribute to the development of SSc as an extra-gastrointestinal autoimmune disease. We investigated the association between H. pylori infections and disease severity in patients with SSc. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study. Sampling method in this study was census method in such a way that all patients with SSc referred to Imam Reza Education and Research University Medical Center from May 2015 to August 2016 were included in the study. Finally, 74 patients were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria were: 1. Definitive SSc based on American College of Rheumatology/ European League Against Rheumatism 2010 (ACR/EULAR) classification for scleroderma, which was diagnosed within the last two years. 2. Not taking any proton pump inhibitors. 3. Not taking any H. pylori treatment with a standard regimen within the recent 2 months. Disease severity was assessed and determined by two rheumatologists based on the Medsger's Disease Severity Scale (MDSS). H. pylori stool antigen was evaluated based on the test which sensitivity and specificity was proven. All obtained data were statistically analyzed by SPSS 16 using Fisher's exact test Spearman correlation test (RSpearman). RESULTS Forty one (55.4%) of the 74 patients had positive stool antigens. We found a significant positive association between the severity of disease based on MDSS and titer of H. pylori stool antigen (p ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSION This study reveals that H. pylori infection may play a significant role in the severity of organ involvement in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Atabati
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Valiasr Hospital, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Zhaleh Shariati Sarabi
- Rheumatic Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasan Jokar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Kamila Hashemzadeh
- Rheumatic Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra Mirfeizi
- Rheumatic Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
,Corresponding Author: Zahra Mirfeizi, MD Rheumatic Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Postal code: 99199-91799 Telefax: + 98 56 3204 1364
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15
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Modulation of microRNome by Human Cytomegalovirus and Human Herpesvirus 6 Infection in Human Dermal Fibroblasts: Possible Significance in the Induction of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051060. [PMID: 33946985 PMCID: PMC8146000 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) have been reportedly suggested as triggers of the onset and/or progression of systemic sclerosis (SSc), a severe autoimmune disorder characterized by multi-organ fibrosis. The etiology and pathogenesis of SSc are still largely unknown but virological and immunological observations support a role for these beta-herpesviruses, and we recently observed a direct impact of HCMV and HHV-6 infection on the expression of cell factors associated with fibrosis at the cell level. Since miRNA expression has been found profoundly deregulated at the tissue level, here we aimed to investigate the impact on cell microRNome (miRNome) of HCMV and HHV-6 infection in in vitro infected primary human dermal fibroblasts, which represent one of the main SSc target cells. The analysis, performed by Taqman arrays detecting and quantifying 754 microRNAs (miRNAs), showed that both herpesviruses significantly modulated miRNA expression in infected cells, with evident early and late effects and deep modulation (>10 fold) of >40 miRNAs at each time post infection, including those previously recognized for their key function in fibrosis. The correlation between these in vitro results with in vivo observations is strongly suggestive of a role of HCMV and/or HHV-6 in the multistep pathogenesis of fibrosis in SSc and in the induction of fibrosis-signaling pathways finally leading to tissue fibrosis. The identification of specific miRNAs may open the way to their use as biomarkers for SSc diagnosis, assessment of disease progression and possible antifibrotic therapies.
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16
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Hashempour A, Moayedi J, Musavi Z, Ghasabi F, Halaji M, Hasanshahi Z, Nazarinia MA. First report of HHV-8 viral load and seroprevalence of major blood-borne viruses in Iranian patients with systemic sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 51:102872. [PMID: 33711714 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102872] [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: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by autoimmune manifestations, and viral infections may have a key role in the development and progression of it. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of major blood-borne viruses and HHV-8 viral load in Iranian SSc patients. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, 90 patients with a confirmed history of SSc and 90 healthy blood donors were enrolled. The frequency of HHV-8, CMV, EBV, HIV, HBV, and HCV antibodies and HHV-8 viral load were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time PCR assay, respectively. RESULTS HHV-8 IgG antibody was diagnosed in 61 (67.8%) patients and 3 (3.3%) healthy individuals (p<0.0001), but its genomic DNA was not detected in the patients or healthy blood donors. CMV and EBV antibodies were detected in 100% and 88.9% of SSc patients without any significant difference with healthy population (p>0.05). None of the patients or healthy population was positive for HBsAg and HIVAb; however, HCVAb was detected in two patients. CONCLUSION According to the results, HHV-8 antibody was uniquely increased in SSc population while its frequency in healthy population was very low. Since none of the SSc patients were positive for HHV-8 genomic DNA, the high prevalence of HHV-8 antibody in this group was not related to the real history of infection. Therefore, antibody-mediated epitope mimicry can play a role to get the high rate of seropositivity and lead to pathogeneses of SSc. Besides, CMV and EBV viral load monitoring in SSc patients can help the physician to prescribe the viral drugs to suppress the viral replication and avoid the crucial effect of reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava Hashempour
- Shiraz HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Javad Moayedi
- Shiraz HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Zahra Musavi
- Shiraz HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Ghasabi
- Shiraz HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Halaji
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran; Shiraz HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Hasanshahi
- Shiraz HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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17
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Gugliesi F, Pasquero S, Griffante G, Scutera S, Albano C, Pacheco SFC, Riva G, Dell’Oste V, Biolatti M. Human Cytomegalovirus and Autoimmune Diseases: Where Are We? Viruses 2021; 13:260. [PMID: 33567734 PMCID: PMC7914970 DOI: 10.3390/v13020260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a ubiquitous double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the β-subgroup of the herpesvirus family. After the initial infection, the virus establishes latency in poorly differentiated myeloid precursors from where it can reactivate at later times to cause recurrences. In immunocompetent subjects, primary HCMV infection is usually asymptomatic, while in immunocompromised patients, HCMV infection can lead to severe, life-threatening diseases, whose clinical severity parallels the degree of immunosuppression. The existence of a strict interplay between HCMV and the immune system has led many to hypothesize that HCMV could also be involved in autoimmune diseases (ADs). Indeed, signs of active viral infection were later found in a variety of different ADs, such as rheumatological, neurological, enteric disorders, and metabolic diseases. In addition, HCMV infection has been frequently linked to increased production of autoantibodies, which play a driving role in AD progression, as observed in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Documented mechanisms of HCMV-associated autoimmunity include molecular mimicry, inflammation, and nonspecific B-cell activation. In this review, we summarize the available literature on the various ADs arising from or exacerbating upon HCMV infection, focusing on the potential role of HCMV-mediated immune activation at disease onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gugliesi
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.G.); (S.P.); (S.S.); (C.A.); (S.F.C.P.); (V.D.)
| | - Selina Pasquero
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.G.); (S.P.); (S.S.); (C.A.); (S.F.C.P.); (V.D.)
| | - Gloria Griffante
- Department of Translational Medicine, Molecular Virology Unit, University of Piemonte Orientale Medical School, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Sara Scutera
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.G.); (S.P.); (S.S.); (C.A.); (S.F.C.P.); (V.D.)
| | - Camilla Albano
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.G.); (S.P.); (S.S.); (C.A.); (S.F.C.P.); (V.D.)
| | - Sergio Fernando Castillo Pacheco
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.G.); (S.P.); (S.S.); (C.A.); (S.F.C.P.); (V.D.)
| | - Giuseppe Riva
- Otorhinolaryngology Division, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Valentina Dell’Oste
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.G.); (S.P.); (S.S.); (C.A.); (S.F.C.P.); (V.D.)
| | - Matteo Biolatti
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.G.); (S.P.); (S.S.); (C.A.); (S.F.C.P.); (V.D.)
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18
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Arruda LCM, Clave E, Douay C, Lima-Júnior JR, Slavov SN, Malmegrim KCR, Alberdi AJ, Oliveira MC, Toubert A. CMV-specific clones may lead to reduced TCR diversity and relapse in systemic sclerosis patients treated with AHSCT. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 59:e38-e40. [PMID: 31998954 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas C M Arruda
- Basic and Applied Immunology Program, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo.,Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emmanuel Clave
- INSERM UMR-1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint-Louis - APHP.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Corinne Douay
- INSERM UMR-1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint-Louis - APHP
| | - João R Lima-Júnior
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Graduate Program on Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Svetoslav N Slavov
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Kelen C R Malmegrim
- Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Clinical, Toxicological and Bromatological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antônio José Alberdi
- Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Plateforme Technologique, Institut Universitaire d'Hématologie, Paris, France
| | - Maria Carolina Oliveira
- Basic and Applied Immunology Program, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo.,Center for Cell-Based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antoine Toubert
- INSERM UMR-1160, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint-Louis - APHP.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
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19
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Piera-Velazquez S, Wermuth PJ, Gomez-Reino JJ, Varga J, Jimenez SA. Chemical exposure-induced systemic fibrosing disorders: Novel insights into systemic sclerosis etiology and pathogenesis. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 50:1226-1237. [PMID: 33059296 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Numerous drugs and chemical substances are capable of inducing exaggerated tissue fibrotic responses. The vast majority of these agents cause localized fibrotic tissue reactions or fibrosis confined to specific organs. Although much less frequent, chemically-induced systemic fibrotic disorders have been described, sometimes occurring as temporally confined outbreaks. These include the Toxic Oil Syndrome (TOS), the Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome (EMS), and Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF). Although each of these disorders displays some unique characteristics, they all share crucial features with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), the prototypic idiopathic systemic fibrotic disease, including vasculopathy, chronic inflammatory cell infiltration of affected tissues, and cutaneous and visceral tissue fibrosis. The study of the mechanisms and molecular alterations involved in the development of the chemically-induced systemic fibrotic disorders has provided valuable clues that may allow elucidation of SSc etiology and pathogenesis. Here, we review relevant aspects of the TOS, EMS, and NSF epidemic outbreaks of chemically-induced systemic fibrosing disorders that provide strong support to the hypothesis that SSc is caused by a toxic or biological agent that following its internalization by endothelial cells induces in genetically predisposed individuals a series of molecular alterations that result in the development of SSc clinical and pathological alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Peter J Wermuth
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Juan J Gomez-Reino
- Fundacion IDIS, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria, Hospital Clinico Universitario, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - John Varga
- Rheumatology Division, North Western Scleroderma Program, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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20
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Arcangeletti MC, D’Accolti M, Maccari C, Soffritti I, Conto FD, Chezzi C, Calderaro A, Ferri C, Caselli E. Impact of Human Cytomegalovirus and Human Herpesvirus 6 Infection on the Expression of Factors Associated with Cell Fibrosis and Apoptosis: Clues for Implication in Systemic Sclerosis Development. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6397. [PMID: 32899126 PMCID: PMC7504027 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe autoimmune disorder characterized by vasculopathy and multi-organ fibrosis; its etiology and pathogenesis are still largely unknown. Herpesvirus infections, particularly by human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), have been suggested among triggers of the disease based on virological and immunological observations. However, the direct impact of HCMV and/or HHV-6 infection on cell fibrosis and apoptosis at the cell microenvironment level has not yet been clarified. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of HCMV and HHV-6 infection on the induction of pro-fibrosis or pro-apoptosis conditions in primary human dermal fibroblasts, one of the relevant SSc target cells. The analysis, performed by microarray in in vitro HCMV- or HHV-6-infected vs. uninfected cells, using specific panels for the detection of the main cellular factors associated with fibrosis or apoptosis, showed that both viruses significantly modified the expression of at least 30 pro-fibrotic and 20 pro-apoptotic factors. Notably, several recognized pro-fibrotic factors were highly induced, and most of them were reported to be involved in vivo in the multifactorial and multistep pathogenic process of SSc, thus suggesting a potential role of both HCMV and HHV-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Cristina Arcangeletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Virology, University-Hospital of Parma, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Maria D’Accolti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.D.); (I.S.); (E.C.)
| | - Clara Maccari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Virology, University-Hospital of Parma, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Irene Soffritti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.D.); (I.S.); (E.C.)
| | - Flora De Conto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Virology, University-Hospital of Parma, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Carlo Chezzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Virology, University-Hospital of Parma, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Virology, University-Hospital of Parma, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Clodoveo Ferri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, Rheumatology Unit, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.D.); (I.S.); (E.C.)
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21
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Talotta R, Atzeni F, Laska MJ. The contribution of HERV-E clone 4-1 and other HERV-E members to the pathogenesis of rheumatic autoimmune diseases. APMIS 2020; 128:367-377. [PMID: 32202683 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERV)-E consist of a family of more than 1300 elements, stably integrated in the human genome. Some of them are full-length proviruses able to synthesize the viral proteins gag, pol and env. The reactivation of HERV-E elements has been associated to placentation, cancer and autoimmunity. In this narrative review, we aimed to report the status of the art concerning the involvement of HERV-E in rheumatic autoimmune diseases. Following a research on PubMed database, a total of 87 articles were selected. The highest amount of evidence derives from studies on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), whereas a few to no data are available on other immune-mediated diseases. In SLE, the hyper-expression of HERV-E clone 4-1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells or differentiated lymphocytes has been associated with disease activity and autoantibody production. It is likely that HERV-E take part to the pathogenesis of rheumatic autoimmune diseases but additional research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Talotta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Azienda Ospedaliera "Gaetano Martino", Messina, Italy
| | - Fabiola Atzeni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Azienda Ospedaliera "Gaetano Martino", Messina, Italy
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22
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Frasca L, Lande R. Toll-like receptors in mediating pathogenesis in systemic sclerosis. Clin Exp Immunol 2020; 201:14-24. [PMID: 32048277 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are evolutionarily conserved receptors essential for the host defence against pathogens. Both immune and non-immune cells can express TLRs, although at different levels. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease in which autoimmunity, dysregulated profibrotic mediator release and activation of fibroblasts lead to dysregulated collagen deposition and fibrosis. There is now increasing knowledge that the innate immune system and, in particular, TLRs take a part in SSc pathogenesis. The list of endogenous ligands that can stimulate TLRs in SSc is growing: these ligands represent specific danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), involved either in the initiation or the perpetuation of inflammation, and in the release of factors that sustain the fibrotic process or directly stimulate the cells that produce collagen and the endothelial cells. This review reports evidences concerning TLR signalling involvement in SSc. We report the new DAMPs, as well as the TLR-linked pathways involved in disease, with emphasis on type I interferon signature in SSc, the role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) and platelets. The dissection of the contribution of all these pathways to disease, and their correlation with the disease status, as well as their values as prognostic tools, can help to plan timely intervention and design new drugs for more appropriate therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Frasca
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Pharmacological Research and Experimental Therapy Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - R Lande
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Pharmacological Research and Experimental Therapy Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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23
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Jansen AFM, Raijmakers RPH, van Deuren M, Vonk MC, Bleeker-Rovers CP. Chronic Q fever associated with systemic sclerosis. Eur J Clin Invest 2019; 49:e13123. [PMID: 31077590 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 10/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND After the Q fever outbreak in the Netherlands between 2007 and 2010, more than 300 patients with chronic Q fever have been identified. Some patients were also diagnosed with systemic sclerosis, a rare immune-mediated disease. We aimed to increase awareness of concomitant chronic Q fever infection and systemic sclerosis and to give insight into the course of systemic sclerosis during persistent Q fever infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS Chronic Q fever patients were identified after the Dutch Q fever outbreak in 2007-2010. Systemic sclerosis was diagnosed by a scleroderma expert and patients fulfilled the 2013 Classification Criteria for Systemic Sclerosis. RESULTS Four cases presented with chronic Q fever, persistent Coxiella burnetii infection, shortly preceded or followed by the diagnosis of limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis. The three male patients of 60 years or older developed a relatively mild systemic sclerosis, which did not require immunosuppressive therapy during adequate treatment of the chronic Q fever infection. The 58-year-old female patient used immunosuppressives for her newly diagnosed systemic sclerosis at the time she likely developed a chronic Q fever infection. CONCLUSIONS In this case series, chronic Q fever preceding systemic sclerosis was associated with a mild course of systemic sclerosis without the necessity of immunosuppressive drugs, while chronic Q fever development due to immunocompromised state was associated with a more deteriorating course of systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne F M Jansen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Radboud Expert Center for Q fever, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud P H Raijmakers
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Radboud Expert Center for Q fever, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel van Deuren
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Radboud Expert Center for Q fever, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Madelon C Vonk
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Chantal P Bleeker-Rovers
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Radboud Expert Center for Q fever, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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24
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Arcangeletti MC, Maccari C, Vescovini R, Volpi R, Giuggioli D, Sighinolfi G, De Conto F, Chezzi C, Calderaro A, Ferri C. A Paradigmatic Interplay between Human Cytomegalovirus and Host Immune System: Possible Involvement of Viral Antigen-Driven CD8+ T Cell Responses in Systemic Sclerosis. Viruses 2018; 10:E508. [PMID: 30231575 PMCID: PMC6163388 DOI: 10.3390/v10090508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a highly prevalent opportunistic agent in the world population, which persists as a latent virus after a primary infection. Besides the well-established role of this agent causing severe diseases in immunocompromised individuals, more recently, HCMV has been evoked as a possible factor contributing to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as systemic sclerosis (SSc). The interplay between HCMV and immune surveillance is supposed to become unbalanced in SSc patients with expanded anti-HCMV immune responses, which are likely involved in the exacerbation of inflammatory processes. In this study, blood samples from a cohort of SSc patients vs. healthy subjects were tested for anti-HCMV immune responses (IgM, IgG antibodies, and T cells to peptide pools spanning the most immunogenic HCMV proteins). Statistically significant increase of HCMV-specific CD8+ T cell responses in SSc patients vs. healthy subjects was observed. Moreover, significantly greater HCMV-specific CD8+ T cell responses were found in SSc patients with a longer disease duration and those with higher modified Rodnan skin scores. Given the known importance of T cells in the development of SSc and that this virus may contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases, these data support a relevant role of HCMV-specific CD8+ T cell responses in SSc pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Cristina Arcangeletti
- Virology Unit, University-Hospital of Parma, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Clara Maccari
- Virology Unit, University-Hospital of Parma, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Rosanna Vescovini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Volpi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Dilia Giuggioli
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, 41121 Modena, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Sighinolfi
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, 41121 Modena, Italy.
| | - Flora De Conto
- Virology Unit, University-Hospital of Parma, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Carlo Chezzi
- Virology Unit, University-Hospital of Parma, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Adriana Calderaro
- Virology Unit, University-Hospital of Parma, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Clodoveo Ferri
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, 41121 Modena, Italy.
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25
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Dolcino M, Pelosi A, Fiore PF, Patuzzo G, Tinazzi E, Lunardi C, Puccetti A. Gene Profiling in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Reveals the Presence of Oncogenic Gene Signatures. Front Immunol 2018; 9:449. [PMID: 29559981 PMCID: PMC5845728 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disease characterized by three pathogenetic hallmarks: vasculopathy, dysregulation of the immune system, and fibrosis. A particular feature of SSc is the increased frequency of some types of malignancies, namely breast, lung, and hematological malignancies. Moreover, SSc may also be a paraneoplastic disease, again indicating a strong link between cancer and scleroderma. The reason of this association is still unknown; therefore, we aimed at investigating whether particular genetic or epigenetic factors may play a role in promoting cancer development in patients with SSc and whether some features are shared by the two conditions. We therefore performed a gene expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) derived from patients with limited and diffuse SSc, showing that the various classes of genes potentially linked to the pathogenesis of SSc (such as apoptosis, endothelial cell activation, extracellular matrix remodeling, immune response, and inflammation) include genes that directly participate in the development of malignancies or that are involved in pathways known to be associated with carcinogenesis. The transcriptional analysis was then complemented by a complex network analysis of modulated genes which further confirmed the presence of signaling pathways associated with carcinogenesis. Since epigenetic mechanisms, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), are believed to play a central role in the pathogenesis of SSc, we also evaluated whether specific cancer-related miRNAs could be deregulated in the serum of SSc patients. We focused our attention on miRNAs already found upregulated in SSc such as miR-21-5p, miR-92a-3p, and on miR-155-5p, miR 126-3p and miR-16-5p known to be deregulated in malignancies associated to SSc, i.e., breast, lung, and hematological malignancies. miR-21-5p, miR-92a-3p, miR-155-5p, and miR-16-5p expression was significantly higher in SSc sera compared to healthy controls. Our findings indicate the presence of modulated genes and miRNAs that can play a predisposing role in the development of malignancies in SSc and are important for a better risk stratification of patients and for the identification of a better individualized precision medicine strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Dolcino
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Pelosi
- Immunology Area, Pediatric Hospital Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Elisa Tinazzi
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Puccetti
- Immunology Area, Pediatric Hospital Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine - Section of Histology, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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26
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Bivona G, Agnello L, Pivetti A, Milano S, Scazzone C, Sasso BL, Ciaccio M. Association between hypovitaminosis D and systemic sclerosis: True or fake? Clin Chim Acta 2016; 458:115-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2016.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Revised: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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27
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Cantarini L, Rigante D, Vitale A, Napodano S, Sakkas LI, Bogdanos DP, Shoenfeld Y. Intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) in systemic sclerosis: a challenging yet promising future. Immunol Res 2015; 61:326-37. [PMID: 25550086 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-014-8615-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The etiology and pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis are still largely unknown, but a variety of humoral and cellular autoimmune phenomena have been documented. In addition, the rarity of the disease, the broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, and the relevant risk of severe complications as well as the highly variable disease course render its management a major challenge. Some immunomodulatory agents have been used, but no single agent has given a convincing proof of effectiveness, and treatment has remained largely symptomatic through recent years. Novel therapies are currently being tested and may have the potential of modifying the disease process and overall clinical outcome. Efficacy of intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) in different regimens (1-2 g/kg of body weight, administered over 2-5 consecutive days) has been described in a limited number of trials and small case series, showing benefits in skin, articular, and lung interstitial disease symptoms. However, studies on IVIG in systemic sclerosis still remain few, and further randomized controlled trials should be undertaken to assess their clinical effectiveness or define the optimal dosage and times of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cantarini
- Research Center of Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases and Behçet's Disease Clinic, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy,
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28
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Mendoza FA, Mansoor M, Jimenez SA. Treatment of Rapidly Progressive Systemic Sclerosis: Current and Futures Perspectives. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2015; 4:31-47. [PMID: 27812432 PMCID: PMC5087809 DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2016.1114454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by severe and often progressive cutaneous, pulmonary, cardiac and gastrointestinal tract fibrosis, cellular and humoral immunologic alterations, and pronounced fibroproliferative vasculopathy. There is no effective SSc disease modifying therapy. Patients with rapidly progressive SSc have poor prognosis with frequent disability and very high mortality. AREAS COVERED This paper reviews currently available therapeutic approaches for rapidly progressive SSc and discuss novel drugs under study for SSc disease modification. EXPERT OPINION The extent, severity, and rate of progression of SSc skin and internal organ involvement determines the optimal therapeutic interventions for SSc. Cyclophosphamide for progressive SSc-associated interstitial lung disease and mycophenolate for rapidly progressive cutaneous involvement have shown effectiveness. Methotrexate has been used for less severe skin progression and for patients unable to tolerate mycophenolate. Rituximab was shown to induce improvement in SSc-cutaneous and lung involvement. Autologous bone marrow transplantation is reserved for selected cases in whom poor survival risk outweighs the high mortality rate of the procedure. Novel agents capable of modulating fibrotic and inflammatory pathways involved in SSc pathogenesis, including tocilizumab, pirfenidone, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, lipid lysophosphatidic acid 1, and NOX4 inhibitors are currently under development for the treatment of rapidly progressive SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A. Mendoza
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine, and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Maryah Mansoor
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Sergio A. Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine, and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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29
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Hammer C, Stepniak B, Schneider A, Papiol S, Tantra M, Begemann M, Sirén AL, Pardo LA, Sperling S, Mohd Jofrry S, Gurvich A, Jensen N, Ostmeier K, Lühder F, Probst C, Martens H, Gillis M, Saher G, Assogna F, Spalletta G, Stöcker W, Schulz TF, Nave KA, Ehrenreich H. Neuropsychiatric disease relevance of circulating anti-NMDA receptor autoantibodies depends on blood-brain barrier integrity. Mol Psychiatry 2014; 19:1143-9. [PMID: 23999527 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2013.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 255] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2013] [Revised: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In 2007, a multifaceted syndrome, associated with anti-NMDA receptor autoantibodies (NMDAR-AB) of immunoglobulin-G isotype, has been described, which variably consists of psychosis, epilepsy, cognitive decline and extrapyramidal symptoms. Prevalence and significance of NMDAR-AB in complex neuropsychiatric disease versus health, however, have remained unclear. We tested sera of 2817 subjects (1325 healthy, 1081 schizophrenic, 263 Parkinson and 148 affective-disorder subjects) for presence of NMDAR-AB, conducted a genome-wide genetic association study, comparing AB carriers versus non-carriers, and assessed their influenza AB status. For mechanistic insight and documentation of AB functionality, in vivo experiments involving mice with deficient blood-brain barrier (ApoE(-/-)) and in vitro endocytosis assays in primary cortical neurons were performed. In 10.5% of subjects, NMDAR-AB (NR1 subunit) of any immunoglobulin isotype were detected, with no difference in seroprevalence, titer or in vitro functionality between patients and healthy controls. Administration of extracted human serum to mice influenced basal and MK-801-induced activity in the open field only in ApoE(-/-) mice injected with NMDAR-AB-positive serum but not in respective controls. Seropositive schizophrenic patients with a history of neurotrauma or birth complications, indicating an at least temporarily compromised blood-brain barrier, had more neurological abnormalities than seronegative patients with comparable history. A common genetic variant (rs524991, P=6.15E-08) as well as past influenza A (P=0.024) or B (P=0.006) infection were identified as predisposing factors for NMDAR-AB seropositivity. The >10% overall seroprevalence of NMDAR-AB of both healthy individuals and patients is unexpectedly high. Clinical significance, however, apparently depends on association with past or present perturbations of blood-brain barrier function.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Hammer
- Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - B Stepniak
- Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - A Schneider
- 1] Department of Psychiatry & Psychotherapy, University Medicine Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany [2] DFG Research Center Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany [3] German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - S Papiol
- 1] Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany [2] DFG Research Center Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - M Tantra
- 1] Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany [2] DFG Research Center Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - M Begemann
- Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - A-L Sirén
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Clinic of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - L A Pardo
- Department of Molecular Biology of Neuronal Signals, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - S Sperling
- Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - S Mohd Jofrry
- Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - A Gurvich
- Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - N Jensen
- Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - K Ostmeier
- Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - F Lühder
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Institute for Multiple Sclerosis Research and Hertie Foundation, University Medicine Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - C Probst
- Institute for Experimental Immunology, affiliated to Euroimmun, Lübeck, Germany
| | - H Martens
- Synaptic Systems GmbH, Göttingen, Germany
| | - M Gillis
- Institute of Virology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - G Saher
- Department of Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - F Assogna
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - G Spalletta
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - W Stöcker
- Institute for Experimental Immunology, affiliated to Euroimmun, Lübeck, Germany
| | - T F Schulz
- Institute of Virology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - K-A Nave
- 1] DFG Research Center Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany [2] Department of Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - H Ehrenreich
- 1] Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany [2] DFG Research Center Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany
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30
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Radić M. Role of Helicobacter pylori infection in autoimmune systemic rheumatic diseases. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:12839-12846. [PMID: 25278681 PMCID: PMC4177466 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i36.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship between infection and autoimmunity has been increasingly defined over the last 20 years. The systemic rheumatic diseases are characterized by dysregulation of the immune system resulting in a loss of tolerance to self-antigen. The exact etiology for the majority of these diseases is unknown; however, a complex combination of host and environmental factors are believed to play a pivotal role. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is one of the most widely studied infectious agents proposed as agents triggering autoimmune response. The persistent presence of H. pylori in the gastric mucosa results in chronic immune system activation with ongoing cytokine signaling, infiltration of gastric mucosa by neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes, as well as production of antibodies and effector T-cells. Various mechanisms have been proposed in an attempt to explain the extra-intestinal manifestations of H. pylori infections. These include: molecular mimicry, endothelial cell damage, superantigens and microchimerism. I performed a systematic literature review using the keywords “rheumatoid arthritis”, “Sjögren’s syndrome”, “systemic sclerosis”, “systemic lupus erythematosus”, “Helicobacter pylori” and “pathogenesis”. A systematic literature search was carried out in MEDLINE; EMBASE; Cochrane Library and ACR/EULAR meeting abstracts. In systemic rheumatic diseases H. pylori infection prevalence alone should not be expected to provide sufficient evidence for or against a pathologic role in the disease. In this article I review studies examining the potential involvement of H. pylori infection in autoimmune systemic rheumatic diseases. Further studies of the immunological response to H. pylori and its role in the pathogenesis of systemic rheumatic diseases are warranted.
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31
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Proinflammatory effects of diesel exhaust nanoparticles on scleroderma skin cells. J Immunol Res 2014; 2014:138751. [PMID: 24982919 PMCID: PMC4058589 DOI: 10.1155/2014/138751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are complex disorders of unknown etiology thought to result from interactions between genetic and environmental factors. We aimed to verify whether environmental pollution from diesel engine exhaust nanoparticulate (DEP) of actually operating vehicles could play a role in the development of a rare immune-mediated disease, systemic sclerosis (SSc), in which the pathogenetic role of environment has been highlighted. The effects of carbon-based nanoparticulate collected at the exhaust of newer (Euro 5) and older (Euro 4) diesel engines on SSc skin keratinocytes and fibroblasts were evaluated in vitro by assessing the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) and fibroblast chemical mediators (metalloproteases 2, 3, 7, 9, and 12; collagen types I and III; VEGF). DEP was shown to stimulate cytokine gene expression at a higher extent in SSc keratinocytes versus normal cells. Moreover, the mRNA gene expression of all MMPs, collagen types, and VEGF genes was significantly higher in untreated SSc fibroblasts versus controls. Euro 5 particle exposure increased the mRNA expression of MMP-2, -7, and -9 in SSc fibroblasts in a dose dependent manner and only at the highest concentration in normal cells. We suggest that environmental DEP could trigger the development of SSc acting on genetically hyperreactive cell systems.
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32
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Hamidi S, Schäfer-Korting M, Weindl G. TLR2/1 and sphingosine 1-phosphate modulate inflammation, myofibroblast differentiation and cell migration in fibroblasts. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2014; 1841:484-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2014.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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33
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Peng WJ, Pan HF, Tao JH, Wang BX, Lu MM, Wang S, He Q, Wang J. A meta-analysis of the association between cytokine gene polymorphisms and systemic sclerosis. Mod Rheumatol 2014. [DOI: 10.3109/s10165-011-0574-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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34
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Limpers A, van Royen-Kerkhof A, van Roon JAG, Radstake TRDJ, Broen JCA. Overlapping gene expression profiles indicative of antigen processing and the interferon pathway characterize inflammatory fibrotic skin diseases. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2014; 10:231-41. [PMID: 24382112 DOI: 10.1586/1744666x.2014.872561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory fibrotic disorders have been of high interest both for dermatologists and rheumatologists. Although the phenotypic end stage of this group of diseases is ultimately the same, namely fibrosis, patients present with different clinical features and are often treated with distinct therapeutic modalities. This review addresses whether there is evidence for different underlying molecular pathways in the various inflammatory fibrotic diseases such as localized scleroderma, pediatric lichen sclerosus, adult lichen sclerosus, eosinophilic fasciitis and systemic sclerosis. To investigate this, a large number of gene expression microarray studies performed on skin or fibroblasts from patients with these aforementioned diseases were described, (re-)analysed, and compared. As suspected by the heterogeneous phenotype, most diseases showed unique gene expression features. Intriguingly, a clear overlap was observed between adult and pediatric lichen sclerosus and localized scleroderma, in antigen processing and the interferon pathway. Delineating the cause and consequence of these pathways may generate novel tools to better characterize and more effectively treat these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Limpers
- Laboratory for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Viswanath V, Phiske MM, Gopalani VV. Systemic sclerosis: current concepts in pathogenesis and therapeutic aspects of dermatological manifestations. Indian J Dermatol 2013; 58:255-68. [PMID: 23918994 PMCID: PMC3726870 DOI: 10.4103/0019-5154.113930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic, multisystem connective tissue disease with protean clinical manifestations. Recent advances in understanding the pathogenic mechanisms have led to development of target-oriented and vasomodulatory drugs which play a pivotal role in treating various dermatological manifestations. An exhaustive literature search was done using Medline, Embase, and Cochrane library to review the recent concepts regarding pathogenesis and evidence-based treatment of salient dermatological manifestations. The concept of shared genetic risk factors for the development of autoimmune diseases is seen in SSc. It is divided into fibroproliferative and inflammatory groups based on genome-wide molecular profiling. Genetic, infectious, and environmental factors play a key role; vascular injury, fibrosis, and immune activation are the chief pathogenic factors. Vitamin D deficiency has been documented in SSc and correlates with the severity of skin involvement. Skin sclerosis, Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) with digital vasculopathies, pigmentation, calcinosis, and leg ulcers affect the patient's quality of life. Immunosuppressives, biologicals, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation are efficacious in skin sclerosis. Endothelin A receptor antagonists, calcium-channel blockers, angiotensin receptor inhibitors, prostacyclin analogs, and phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors are the mainstay in RP and digital vasculopathies. Pigmentation in SSc has been attributed to melanogenic potential of endothelin-1 (ET-1); the role of ET 1 antagonists and vitamin D analogs needs to be investigated. Sexual dysfunction in both male and female patients has been attributed to vasculopathy and fibrosis, wherein PDE-5 inhibitors are found to be useful. The future concepts of treating SSc may be based on the gene expression signature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishalakshi Viswanath
- Department of Dermatology, Rajiv Gandhi Medical College and CSM Hospital, Kalwa, Thane Municipal Corporation, India
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Peng WJ, Yan JW, Wan YN, Wang BX, Tao JH, Yang GJ, Pan HF, Wang J. Matrix Metalloproteinases: A Review of Their Structure and Role in Systemic Sclerosis. J Clin Immunol 2012; 32:1409-14. [DOI: 10.1007/s10875-012-9735-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Association of the interleukin-10 1082G/A, 819C/T and 3575T/A gene polymorphisms with systemic sclerosis: a meta-analysis. Mol Biol Rep 2012; 39:6851-5. [PMID: 22307790 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-012-1510-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2011] [Accepted: 01/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Many environmental and genetic factors have been contributed to the development of systemic sclerosis (SSc). To determine whether IL-10 gene polymorphisms are associated with SSc, we conducted a meta-analysis approach. A total of eight studies involving 1,034 SSc cases and 1,815 controls were obtained by electronic database, i.e. Embase, Blackwell, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure database, Chinese Biomedical database, Google searching. We analyzed three gene polymorphisms, including IL-10 -1082G/A (rs1800896), IL-10 -819C/T (rs1800871), IL-10 -3575T/A (rs1800890). The combined odds ratio (OR) with its 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated using fixed or random effect models. We found that IL-10 819C allele might contribute to SSc susceptibility by fixed effect model and IL-10 3575A allele could be an important risk factor for SSc, especially in European descent. No significant heterogeneity were observed. Under random effect model, there was no evidence of statistically significant association between IL-10 1082G/A polymorphism and SSc. Publication bias was absent in all analyses. However, larger scale primary studies are required to further evaluate the IL-10 polymorphism and SSc.
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Peng WJ, Pan HF, Tao JH, Wang BX, Lu MM, Wang S, He Q, Wang J. A meta-analysis of the association between cytokine gene polymorphisms and systemic sclerosis. Mod Rheumatol 2011; 22:695-703. [PMID: 22173230 DOI: 10.1007/s10165-011-0574-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2011] [Accepted: 11/21/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to quantitatively evaluate the association of cytokine gene polymorphisms with systemic sclerosis (SSc) susceptibility. Electronic databases were used to identify published studies before July 2011. In total, 23 case-control studies including 3524 SSc cases and 6086 healthy controls were included in the meta-analysis. We examined the relationship between five gene polymorphisms [cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) -1722T/C, CTLA-4 -318C/T, CTLA-4 +49A/G, angiotensin-converting enzyme I/D, STAT-4 rs7574865] and susceptibility to SSc. The combined odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated to estimate the strength of the association in a fixed or random effect model. Heterogeneity and publication bias were also assessed. We found a significant association between SSc and STAT rs7574865 (TT vs. GG: OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.36-0.54; TT vs. TG + GG: OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.39-0.59; TT + TG vs. GG: OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.66-0.83; T vs. G: OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.66-0.79), but there were no other statistically significant associations with other gene polymorphisms. Our study suggested that SSc is associated with STAT gene rs7574865 polymorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-jia Peng
- 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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Primary biliary cirrhosis associated with systemic sclerosis: diagnostic and clinical challenges. Int J Rheumatol 2011; 2011:976427. [PMID: 22187566 PMCID: PMC3236477 DOI: 10.1155/2011/976427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2011] [Accepted: 09/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) often have concurrent limited systemic sclerosis (SSc). Conversely, up to one-fourth of SSc patients are positive for PBC-specific antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA). The mechanisms responsible for the co-occurrence of these diseases are largely unknown. Genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and infectious factors appear to be important for the pathogenesis of the disease, but the hierarchy of events are not well defined. Patients with SSc and PBC have an increased morbidity and mortality compared with the general population, but whether the presence of both diseases in an affected individual worsens the prognosis and/or outcome of either disease is not clear. Some case reports suggested that the presence of SSc in PBC patents is associated with a more favorable prognosis of the liver disease, whereas others report an increased mortality in patients with PBC and SSc compared to patients with PBC alone. This paper discusses the features of patients with PBC-associated SSc. Our aims are to clarify some of the pathogenetic, diagnostic, and clinical challenges that are currently faced in the routine management of these patients. We also intend to provide some practical hints for practitioners that will assist in the early identification of patients with PBC-associated SSc.
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Campuzano-Maya G. Cure of alopecia areata after eradication of Helicobacter pylori: a new association? World J Gastroenterol 2011; 17:3165-70. [PMID: 21912461 PMCID: PMC3158418 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i26.3165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Revised: 03/05/2011] [Accepted: 03/12/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alopecia areata is a disease of the hair follicles, with strong evidence supporting autoimmune etiology. Alopecia areata is frequently associated with immune-mediated diseases with skin manifestations such as psoriasis and lichen planus, or without skin manifestations such as autoimmune thyroiditis and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is present in around 50% of the world's population and has been associated with a variety of immune-mediated extra-digestive disorders including autoimmune thyroiditis, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, and psoriasis. A case of a 43-year old man with an 8-mo history of alopecia areata of the scalp and beard is presented. The patient was being treated by a dermatologist and had psychiatric support, without any improvement. He had a history of dyspepsia and the urea breath test confirmed H. pylori infection. The patient went into remission from alopecia areata after H. pylori eradication. If such an association is confirmed by epidemiological studies designed for this purpose, new therapeutic options could be available for these patients, especially in areas where infection with H. pylori is highly prevalent.
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Lin YS, Yeh TM, Lin CF, Wan SW, Chuang YC, Hsu TK, Liu HS, Liu CC, Anderson R, Lei HY. Molecular mimicry between virus and host and its implications for dengue disease pathogenesis. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2011; 236:515-23. [PMID: 21502191 DOI: 10.1258/ebm.2011.010339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous infectious agents may trigger autoimmunity or even result in autoimmune diseases. Several mechanisms have been proposed for pathogen-triggered autoimmunity including molecular mimicry, cryptic antigens, epitope spreading, bystander activation and polyclonal activation. In the case of dengue virus infection which causes serious public health problems, the mechanisms regarding the pathogenesis of dengue hemorrhagic syndrome are not fully resolved. Our previous studies suggest a mechanism of molecular mimicry in which antibodies directed against dengue virus non-structural protein 1 (NS1) cross-react with human platelets and endothelial cells and cause their damage and dysfunction, which may be related to the clinical features of dengue disease. Several cell surface proteins recognized by patient serum samples and anti-NS1 antibodies have been identified. Based on proteomic studies and sequence analysis, the C-terminal region of dengue virus NS1 shows sequence homology with target proteins. In addition, different regions of dengue virus proteins including core, prM, E and NS1 proteins show sequence homology with different coagulatory molecules. As an example, the amino acid sequence 101-106 of E protein (WGNGCG) shows sequence homology with factors XI, X, IX, VII, II (thrombin), plasminogen and tissue plasminogen activator. Furthermore, single chain variable region against NS1 can interfere with fibrin formation, which leads to prolonged thrombin time. We hypothesize that molecular mimicry between dengue virus proteins and coagulatory molecules may induce cross-reactive autoantibodies that can interfere with coagulation activation. A molecular mimicry pathogenesis for dengue disease which involves cross-reactivity of dengue virus with human endothelial cells, platelets and coagulatory molecules is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yee-Shin Lin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National Cheng Kung University Medical College, Tainan, Taiwan.
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Radić M, Martinović Kaliterna D, Radić J. Reply to comment by Kountouras et al. about article untitled “Helicobacter pylori infection and systemic sclerosis – is there a link? by Radić et al.”. Joint Bone Spine 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2011.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Kountouras J, Zavos C, Gavalas E, Deretzi G, Katsinelos P, Boura P, Polyzos SA, Venizelos I. Helicobacter pylori may be a common denominator associated with systemic and multiple sclerosis. Joint Bone Spine 2011; 78:222-3; author reply 223. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2011.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2010] [Accepted: 01/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Serum 25-OH vitamin D concentrations are linked with various clinical aspects in patients with systemic sclerosis: a retrospective cohort study and review of the literature. Autoimmun Rev 2011; 10:490-4. [PMID: 21320645 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2011.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2011] [Accepted: 01/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Low vitamin D serum concentrations have been reported in several autoimmune conditions. The study's aim was to explore such a relationship in a large multinational population of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and to pursue possible clinical and laboratory correlates with vitamin D concentrations. 327 sera samples of European patients with SSc and 141 samples of compatible healthy controls were studied for vitamin D concentrations using the commercial kit LIAISON 25-OH vitamin D assay (Diasorin). Additionally, clinical parameters including the Rodnan skin score, diffusing lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO), systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP), forced vital capacity (FVC), and nailfold video capillaroscopic, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA and scl70), rheumatoid factor (RF) were investigated. Vitamin D serum concentration was 13.5 ± 9.0 ng/ml (mean ± standard deviation) in patients with SSc compared to 21.6 ± 9.7 ng/ml in a control group (p<0.001). A negative correlation between patients' age and vitamin D concentration (r = -0.2, p<0.05, n = 96) was observed. An inverse relationship was found between skin involvement and vitamin D serum concentrations; Patients with a Rodnan skin score of 10 or lower (n = 11) had a mean vitamin D concentration of 17.7 ± 10.4 ng/ml compared to patients with a score above 10 (n = 28) 8 ± 10.1 ng/ml (p=0.02, by the Mann-Whitney test). In conclusion, Patients with SSc have significantly lower serum vitamin D concentrations compared to healthy controls; moreover fibrosis of the cutaneous tissue is inversely related to the vitamin D concentration.
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Radić M, Kaliterna DM, Radić J. Helicobacter pylori infection and systemic sclerosis-is there a link? Joint Bone Spine 2010; 78:337-40. [PMID: 21145276 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2010.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2010] [Accepted: 10/08/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 20 years, increasing evidence has accumulated to implicate infectious agents in the etiology of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and Raynaud's phenomenon. Infection rates in patients with SSc compared with those in control populations do not provide clear support for any specific pathogen. However, increased antibody titers, a preponderance of specific strains in patients with SSc, and evidence of molecular mimicry inducing autoimmune responses suggest mechanisms by which infectious agents may contribute to the development and progression of SSc. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has been associated with diseases such as autoimmune gastritis, Sjögren's syndrome, atherosclerosis, immune thrombocytopenia purpura, inflammatory bowel diseases and autoimmune pancreatitis, in each of which it seems to play a pathogenetic, but it has also been suggested that it may help to protect against the development of autoimmune gastritis, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythemathosus and inflammatory bowel diseases. A systematic literature search was carried out in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and ACR/EULAR meeting abstracts. We hypotheses that H. pylori infection might play a critical role in the pathogenesis of SSc. Here we review studies examining the potential involvement of H. pylori infection in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mislav Radić
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital, Split, Croatia.
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Relationship between cytokine profiles and clinical outcomes in patients with systemic sclerosis. Autoimmun Rev 2010; 10:65-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2010.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2010] [Accepted: 07/30/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Grossman C, Dovrish Z, Shoenfeld Y, Amital H. Do infections facilitate the emergence of systemic sclerosis? Autoimmun Rev 2010; 10:244-7. [PMID: 20863912 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2010.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by vascular obliteration, excessive extracellular matrix deposition, and fibrosis of the connective tissues of the skin, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, heart, and kidneys. Infections are believed to play a role in the immunopathogenesis of SSc. A number of infectious agents have been proposed as possible triggering factors in SSc. Homology between viruses and autoantibody targets suggests that molecular mimicry may play a role in the initiation of antibody response in disorders characterized by diffuse vascular disease, mainly SSc. Four pathogenic hypotheses have been proposed: molecular mimicry, endothelial cell damage, super-antigens, and microchimerism. Although several studies have provided important information linking infectious agents to SSc, a clear, direct association is still missing. It is very likely that the infectious agents are cofactors in a specific hormonal and environmental setting that mounts an immune reaction, which leads to the emergence of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chagai Grossman
- Department of Medicine D, Meir Medical Center, Kefar-Saba Israel, Sackler faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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Belizna C, Henrion D, Beucher A, Lavigne C, Ghaali A, Lévesque H. Anti-Ku antibodies: Clinical, genetic and diagnostic insights. Autoimmun Rev 2010; 9:691-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2010.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2010] [Accepted: 05/26/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Meron MK, Amital H, Shepshelovich D, Barzilai O, Ram M, Anaya JM, Gerli R, Bizzaro N, Nicola B, Shoenfeld Y. Infectious aspects and the etiopathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2010; 38:287-91. [PMID: 19575154 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-009-8158-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Infections are believed to contribute to the maturation of the immune system from the innate to the adaptive phases and therefore may take part in the induction of autoimmune conditions. In the current study, we present an extensive analysis conducted on sera samples of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in order to seek evidence of previous or coexisting infectious processes using the Bio-Rad BioPlex immunoassay analyzer. We detected higher rates of serological evidence of infections with Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus viruses. Our findings may indicate a role of these viruses in the pathogenesis of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Kasher Meron
- Department of Medicine D, Meir Medical Center affiliated with Tel Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Kfar-Saba, Israel
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Autoimmune diseases: Solution of the environmental, immunological and genetic components with principles for immunotherapy and transplantation. Autoimmun Rev 2010; 9:525-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2009.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2009] [Accepted: 12/20/2009] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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