The role of gender and organ specific autoimmunity

Antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi and Bartonella species in serum and synovial fluid from people with rheumatic diseases

Vector-borne infections may underlie some rheumatic diseases, particularly in people with joint effusions. This study aimed to compare serum and synovial fluid antibodies to B. burgdorferi and Bartonella spp. in patients with rheumatic diseases. This observational, cross-sectional study examined paired synovial fluid and serum specimens collected from 110 patients with joint effusion between October 2017 and January 2022. Testing for antibodies to B. burgdorferi (using CDC criteria) and Bartonella spp. via two indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) assays was performed as part of routine patient care at the Institute for Specialized Medicine (San Diego, CA, USA). There were 30 participants (27%) with positive two-tier B. burgdorferi serology and 26 participants (24%) with IFA seroreactivity (≥1:256) to B. henselae and/or B. quintana. Both B. burgdorferi IgM and IgG were detected more frequently in synovial fluid than serum: 27% of patients were either IgM or IgG positive in synovial fluid, compared to 15.5% in serum (P = 0.048). Conversely, B. henselae and B. quintana antibodies were detected more frequently in serum than synovial fluid; overall only 2% of patients had positive IFA titers in synovial fluid, compared to 24% who had positive IFA titers in serum (P < 0.001). There were no significant associations between B. burgdorferi or Bartonella spp. seroreactivity with any of the clinical rheumatological diagnoses. This study provides preliminary support for the importance of synovial fluid antibody testing for documenting exposure to B. burgdorferi but not for documenting exposure to Bartonella spp.

IMPORTANCE

This study focuses on diagnostic testing for two common vector-borne diseases in an affected patient population. In it, we provide data showing that antibodies to B. burgdorferi, but not Bartonella spp., are more commonly found in synovial fluid than serum of patients with joint effusion. Since Lyme arthritis is a common-and sometimes difficult to diagnose-rheumatic disease, improving diagnostic capabilities is of utmost importance. While our findings are certainly not definitive for changes to practice, they do suggest that synovial fluid could be a useful sample for the clinical diagnosis of Lyme disease, and future prospective studies evaluating this claim are warranted.

Intranasal inoculation of female BALB/c mice with replication-deficient human adenovirus type 5 expressing SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein aggravates lung pathology upon re-encountering the antigen

Preclinical studies indicate that SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N)-based vaccines, along with other viral protein(s), confer protection in various animal models against infection by SARS-CoV-2 ancestral virus and variants of concern. However, the optimal vaccination procedure and the role of N-specific host adaptive immune responses remain elusive. Here, we report that intranasal inoculation with replication-deficient human adenovirus type 5 expressing SARS-CoV-2 N protein (Ad5-N) conferred no protection in the lung of female BALB/c mice upon re-encountering the antigen, either by 10-fold Ad5-N re-exposure or sublethal infection of mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2. By contrast, this procedure led to aggravated lung pathology with more necroptotic CD3+ T cells and Ly6G+ granulocytes, which was associated with the accumulation of IFN-γ-expressing antigen-experienced CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. These findings pre-caution the clinical application of this vaccination procedure. Furthermore, our data suggest that excessive host adaptive immune responses against N protein contributes to COVID-19 pathogenesis.

Mechanisms underlying sex bias in oral immune-mediated conditions, an insight

The predilection for women in systemic autoimmune diseases is well established. However, this sex bias in oral autoimmune diseases has been classically reported from an epidemiological perspective without any elaborate attempts to unveil the underlying mechanisms. The unique nature of the oral environment is likely to impose a combination of systemic and local factors that ultimately result in the sex bias in autoimmune diseases of the oral cavity. Variations of immune responses, target organ vulnerability, endocrine and genetic factors, sex chromosomes and modes of parental inheritance are potential systemic factors, while the oral microbiome, oral tolerance, saliva, and oral epithelial stem cells may account for local contributing factors. This review will discuss the preponderance of women in oral immune-mediated diseases, the potential systemic and local mechanisms underlying this predominance and highlight the crucial need for further research in this area.

Vitamin D: Can Gender Medicine Have a Role?

This narrative review aims to shed light on the role of gender differences, on the biological and molecular functions in the main pathological mechanisms that recognize the role of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread worldwide, but it is still very controversial whether the amount of vitamin D taken daily is actually the only problem related to its biological functions. Currently, the plasma concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D represents the only indicator of the circulating blood quota. The concept is that the biological function of vitamin D is not only linked to its circulating levels, but it is hypothesized that its biological functions depend, above all, on its total bioavailability. In particular, vitamin D circulates for the most part linked to albumin and vitamin D binding protein (DBP), which depend on various pathological conditions and physiologically, above all, the function of the latter is regulated by estrogens, glucocorticoids, and inflammatory cytokines. During her life, women undergo various changes in the hormonal and sexual sphere concerning menarche, possible pregnancies, and breastfeeding but also the use of contraceptives and, finally, the transition from the period of fertility to menopause. Each of these phases presents specific needs and, consequently, sometimes also specific criticalities. Studies on young women have shown that vitamin D deficiency is present in 58 to 91% of cases. Obesity, metabolic disorders, and variation in estrogen contraction may affect vitamin D deficiency due to the decreased bioavailability from dietary sources due to deposition in body fat compartments.

Immunological and Metabolic Causes of Infertility in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Infertility has been recognized as a civilizational disease. One of the most common causes of infertility is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Closely interrelated immunometabolic mechanisms underlie the development of this complex syndrome and lead to infertility. The direct cause of infertility in PCOS is ovulation and implantation disorders caused by low-grade inflammation of ovarian tissue and endometrium which, in turn, result from immune and metabolic system disorders. The systemic immune response, in particular the inflammatory response, in conjunction with metabolic disorders, insulin resistance (IR), hyperadrenalism, insufficient secretion of progesterone, and oxidative stress lead not only to cardiovascular diseases, cancer, autoimmunity, and lipid metabolism disorders but also to infertility. Depending on the genetic and environmental conditions as well as certain cultural factors, some diseases may occur immediately, while others may become apparent years after an infertility diagnosis. Each of them alone can be a significant factor contributing to the development of PCOS and infertility. Further research will allow clinical management protocols to be established for PCOS patients experiencing infertility so that a targeted therapy approach can be applied to the factor underlying and driving the "vicious circle" alongside symptomatic treatment and ovulation stimulation. Hence, therapy of fertility for PCOS should be conducted by interdisciplinary teams of specialists as an in-depth understanding of the molecular relationships and clinical implications between the immunological and metabolic factors that trigger reproductive system disorders is necessary to restore the physiology and homeostasis of the body and, thus, fertility, among PCOS patients.

Chronic conditions in women: the development of a National Institutes of health framework

Rising rates of chronic conditions were cited as one of the key public health concerns in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 U.S. Senate and House of Representatives appropriations bills, where a review of current National Institutes of Health (NIH) portfolios relevant to research on women's health was requested. Chronic conditions were last defined by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in 2010. However, existing definitions of chronic conditions do not incorporate sex or gender considerations. Sex and gender influence health, yet significant knowledge gaps exist in the evidence-base for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic diseases amongst women. The presentation, prevalence, and long-term effects of chronic conditions and multimorbidity differs in women from men. A clinical framework was developed to adequately assess the NIH investment in research related to chronic conditions in women. The public health needs and NIH investment related to conditions included in the framework were measured. By available measures, research within the NIH has not mapped to the burden of chronic conditions among women. Clinical research questions and endpoints centered around women can be developed and implemented; clinical trials networks with expanded or extended eligibility criteria can be created; and data science could be used to extrapolate the effects of overlapping or multiple morbidities on the health of women. Aligning NIH research priorities to address the specific needs of women with chronic diseases is critical to addressing women's health needs from a life course perspective.

The Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Activities of Natural Products to Control Autoimmune Inflammation

Inflammation is an integral part of autoimmune diseases, which are caused by dysregulation of the immune system. This dysregulation involves an imbalance between pro-inflammatory versus anti-inflammatory mediators. These mediators include various cytokines and chemokines; defined subsets of T helper/T regulatory cells, M1/M2 macrophages, activating/tolerogenic dendritic cells, and antibody-producing/regulatory B cells. Despite the availability of many anti-inflammatory/immunomodulatory drugs, the severe adverse reactions associated with their long-term use and often their high costs are impediments in effectively controlling the disease process. Accordingly, suitable alternatives are being sought for these conventional drugs. Natural products offer promising adjuncts/alternatives in this regard. The availability of specific compounds isolated from dietary/medicinal plant extracts have permitted rigorous studies on their disease-modulating activities and the mechanisms involved therein. Here, we describe the basic characteristics, mechanisms of action, and preventive/therapeutic applications of 5 well-characterized natural product compounds (Resveratrol, Curcumin, Boswellic acids, Epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and Triptolide). These compounds have been tested extensively in animal models of autoimmunity as well as in limited clinical trials in patients having the corresponding diseases. We have focused our description on predominantly T cell-mediated diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes, ulcerative colitis, and psoriasis.

Evaluation of X chromosome inactivation in endemic Tunisian pemphigus foliaceus

BACKGROUND

Almost 5% of the world's population develops an autoimmune disease (AID), it is considered the fourth leading cause of disability for women, who represent 78% of cases. The sex ratio when it comes to the most prevalent AID varies from 9:1 in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to 13:1 in endemic Tunisian pemphigus foliaceus (PF).

METHODS

To test the potential involvement of skewed x-inactivation in the pathogenesis of Tunisian PF, we analyzed the methylation status of a highly polymorphic CAG repeat in the androgen receptor gene and evaluated the x chromosome inactivation (XCI) patterns in peripheral blood-leukocyte-derived DNA samples of female patients with PF (n = 98) compared to healthy control (HC) subjects (n = 150), as well as female patients with SLE (n = 98) were enrolled as a reference group.

RESULTS

XCI status was informative for 50 of the 98 PF patients (51%) and 70 of the 150 HC women (47%). Extremely skewed XCI patterns were more frequent in PF and SLEwomen than HC, but the difference was statistically significant only in women with SLE. No statistical difference was observed in XCI patterns between PF and SLE patients. PF phenotype-XCI correlation analysis revealed that (i) skewed XCI patterns may be involved in the disease's subtype and (ii) it was more pronounced in the endemic group than the sporadic one. Furthermore, preferential XCI showed an increase in heterozygote genotypes of PF's susceptibility polymorphisms in immunity-related X genes (FOXP3, AR, and TLR7) in PF patients compared to HC.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that skewed XCI could lead to hemizygosity of X-linked alleles that might unmask X-linked deleterious alleles.

Sex difference in the associations among risk factors with hepatitis B and C infections in a large Taiwanese population study

Background

The prevalence rates of hepatitis B and C virus (HBV/HCV) infection are high in Taiwan, and both are common causes of chronic liver disease and its related complications. Therefore, the early detection of factors associated with HBV/HCV infection is important. The aim of this study was to explore these factors in a large cohort of Taiwanese participants in the Taiwan Biobank, and also to identify sex differences in these risk factors.

Methods

It was an observational cohort study. The study enrolled 121,421 participants, and divided into four groups according to the presence or absence of HBV or HCV infection. Associations between risk factors with HBV or HCV infection were examined using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The mean age of the 121,421 enrolled participants (43,636 men and 77,785 women) was 49.9 ± 11.0 years. The participants were stratified into four groups according to those with (n = 13,804; 11.4%) and without HBV infection (n = 107,617; 88.6%), and those with (n = 2,750; 2.3%) and without HCV infection (n = 118,671; 97.7%). Multivariable analysis revealed that male sex [vs. female sex; odds ratio [OR] = 1.346; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.282-1.414; p < 0.001] was significantly associated with HBV infection, whereas female sex (vs. male sex; OR = 0.642; 95% CI = 0.575-0.716; p < 0.001) was significantly associated with HCV infection. Furthermore, there were significant interactions between sex and age (p < 0.001), body mass index (p < 0.001), total cholesterol (p = 0.002), aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.024), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (p = 0.012) on HBV infection. There were also significant interactions between sex and age (p < 0.001), hypertension (p = 0.010), fasting glucose (p = 0.031), and uric acid (p = 0.001) on HCV infection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sex differences were found among the risk factors for HBV and HCV infections in a large cohort of Taiwanese volunteers. When dealing with hepatitis B and hepatitis C, the physicians may need to pay attention to the differences between men and women to do different treatments.

Birth Order, Caesarean Section, or Daycare Attendance in Relation to Child- and Adult-Onset Type 1 Diabetes: Results from the German National Cohort

(1) Background: Global incidence of type 1 diabetes (T1D) is rising and nearly half occurred in adults. However, it is unclear if certain early-life childhood T1D risk factors were also associated with adult-onset T1D. This study aimed to assess associations between birth order, delivery mode or daycare attendance and type 1 diabetes (T1D) risk in a population-based cohort and whether these were similar for childhood- and adult-onset T1D (cut-off age 15); (2) Methods: Data were obtained from the German National Cohort (NAKO Gesundheitsstudie) baseline assessment. Self-reported diabetes was classified as T1D if: diagnosis age ≤ 40 years and has been receiving insulin treatment since less than one year after diagnosis. Cox regression was applied for T1D risk analysis; (3) Results: Analyses included 101,411 participants (100 childhood- and 271 adult-onset T1D cases). Compared to "only-children", HRs for second- or later-born individuals were 0.70 (95% CI = 0.50-0.96) and 0.65 (95% CI = 0.45-0.94), respectively, regardless of parental diabetes, migration background, birth year and perinatal factors. In further analyses, higher birth order reduced T1D risk in children and adults born in recent decades. Caesarean section and daycare attendance showed no clear associations with T1D risk; (4) Conclusions: Birth order should be considered in both children and adults' T1D risk assessment for early detection.

Sex and gender differences in autoimmune demyelinating CNS disorders: Multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and myelin-oligodendrocyte-glycoprotein antibody associated disorder (MOGAD)

Multiple sclerosis (MS), Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and Myelin-Oligodendrocyte-Glycoprotein antibody associated disorder (MOGAD) are demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) of autoimmune origin. Here, we summarize general considerations on sex-specific differences in the immunopathogenesis and hormonal influences as well as key clinical and epidemiological elements. Gender-specific issues are widely neglected starting with the lacking separation of sex as a biological variable and gender comprising the sociocultural components. As for other autoimmune diseases, female preponderance is common in MS and NMOSD. However, sex distribution in MOGAD seems equal. As in MS, immunotherapy in NMOSD and MOGAD is crucial to prevent further disease activity. Therefore, we assessed data on sex differences of the currently licensed disease-modifying treatments for efficacy and safety. This topic seems widely neglected with only fragmented information resulting from post-hoc analyses of clinical trials or real-world post-marketing studies afflicted with lacking power and/or inherent sources of bias. In summary, biological hypotheses of sex differences including genetic factors, the constitution of the immune system and hormonal influences are based upon human and preclinical data, especially for the paradigmatic disease of MS whereas specific data for NMOSD and MOGAD are widely lacking. Epidemiological and clinical differences between men and women are well described for MS and to some extent for NMOSD, yet, with remaining contradictory findings. MOGAD needs further detailed investigation. Sex-specific analyses of safety and efficacy of long-term immunotherapies need to be addressed in future studies designed and powered to answer the pressing questions and to optimize and individualize treatment.

Epidemiology and risk factors associated with avascular necrosis in patients with autoimmune diseases: a nationwide study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a clinical condition characterized by the death of bone components due to interruption in the blood supply. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology and determine the risk factors for AVN in patients with autoimmune diseases.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort analysis using claims data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. A total of 49,636 patients with autoimmune diseases between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2013 were included. Cox regression analysis was used to identify associated risk factors for the development of AVN.

RESULTS

A total of 490/49,636 patients (1.0%) developed symptomatic AVN. The systemic lupus erythematosus patients had a higher risk of AVN compared to other autoimmune diseases. AVN was positively correlated with male sex (p < 0.001), alcoholism (p < 0.001), mean daily prednisolone dosage 7.51 to 30 mg (p < 0.001) and > 30 mg (p < 0.001), and total cumulative prednisolone dose 0 g to 5 g (p = 0.002). However, AVN was inversely correlated with cumulative duration of hydroxychloroquine exposure > 0.6 years (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Male sex, systemic lupus erythematosus, alcoholism, mean daily corticosteroid > 7.5 mg and a total cumulative dose of corticosteroid 0 to 5 g were independently associated with the development of AVN in autoimmune patients. While hydroxychloroquine use > 0.6 years conferred significant protection against the development of AVN. Clinicians should regularly assess patients with risk factors to enable the early diagnosis of AVN.

Sex, Allergic Diseases and Omalizumab

Gender differences are increasingly emerging in every area of medicine including drug therapy; however, specific gender-targeted studies are infrequent. Sex is a fundamental variable, which cannot be neglected. When optimizing therapies, gender pharmacology must always be considered in order to improve the effectiveness and safety of the use of drugs. Knowledge of gender differences promotes appropriate use of therapies and greater health protection for both genders. Further development of gender research would make it possible to report on differences in the assimilation and response of the female organism as compared to the male, in order to identify potential risks and benefits that can be found between genders. Furthermore, a better understanding of sex/gender-related influences, with regard to pharmacological activity, would allow the development of personalized “tailor-made” medicines. Here, we summarize the state of knowledge on the role of sex in several allergic diseases and their treatment with omalizumab, the first biologic drug authorized for use in the field of allergology.

Sex Hormones, Growth Hormone, and the Cornea

The growth and maintenance of nearly every tissue in the body is influenced by systemic hormones during embryonic development through puberty and into adulthood. Of the ~130 different hormones expressed in the human body, steroid hormones and peptide hormones are highly abundant in circulation and are known to regulate anabolic processes and wound healing in a tissue-dependent manner. Of interest, differential levels of sex hormones have been associated with ocular pathologies, including dry eye disease and keratoconus. In this review, we discuss key studies that have revealed a role for androgens and estrogens in the cornea with focus on ocular surface homeostasis, wound healing, and stromal thickness. We also review studies of human growth hormone and insulin growth factor-1 in influencing ocular growth and epithelial regeneration. While it is unclear if endogenous hormones contribute to differential corneal wound healing in common animal models, the abundance of evidence suggests that systemic hormone levels, as a function of age, should be considered as an experimental variable in studies of corneal health and disease.

Potential immunological effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender people - an unexplored area of research

There are well-described sex-based differences in how the immune system operates. In particular, cisgender (cis) females have a more easily activated immune system; associated with an increased prevalence of autoimmune diseases and adverse events following vaccinations. Conversely, cis males have a higher threshold for immune activation, and are more prone to certain infectious diseases, such as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Oestrogen and testosterone have immune-modulatory properties, and it is likely that these contribute to the sexual dimorphism of the immune system. There are also important immune-related genes located on the X chromosome, such as toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/8; and the mosaic bi-allelic expression of such genes may contribute to the state of immune hyperactivation in cis females. The scientific literature strongly suggests that sex-based differences in the functioning of the immune system are related to both X-linked genes and immune modulation by sex hormones. However, it is currently not clear how this impacts transgender (trans) people receiving gender-affirming hormonal therapy. Moreover, it is estimated that in Australia, at least 2.3% of adolescents identify as trans and/or gender diverse, and referrals to specialist gender-affirming care are increasing each year. Despite the improving social awareness of trans people, they remain chronically underrepresented in the scientific literature. In addition, a small number of case studies describe new onset autoimmune disorders in adult trans females following oestrogen use. However, there is currently minimal long-term research with an immunological focus on trans people. Therefore, to ensure the positive health outcomes of trans people, it is crucial that the role of sex hormones in immune modulation is investigated further.

Primary biliary cirrhosis associated with myasthenia gravis after postpartum: a case report

Background

Autoimmune diseases refers to a class of diseases involving abnormal immune response of human body and tissue damage caused by the dysregulation of autoimmune balance or destruction of immune tolerance. Recent research has revealed that the occurrence of autoimmune diseases is influenced by genetic, hormonal, immunological, and environmental factors. As sex hormone levels change obviously during pregnancy and postpartum, the morbidity and recurrence rate of autoimmune diseases increase during this period.

Case presentation

A 31-year-old Asian woman was admitted to our hospital for myasthenia gravis and treated with methylprednisolone and pyridostigmine bromide 3 months postpartum. Physical examination and laboratory inspection after admission suggested that the patient had primary biliary cirrhosis. Subsequently, azathioprine was added to the treatment, and the symptoms of both diseases were successfully controlled.

Conclusions

This case exhibits a rare condition of myasthenia gravis combined with primary biliary cirrhosis postpartum. Given the fluctuation of the immune status during the postpartum period, combined autoimmune diseases need to be taken into account when patients develop clinical symptoms of an autoimmune disease. Therefore, detailed physical and laboratory examination can help to prevent the missed diagnosis of these diseases.

Incidence of Guillain-Barré syndrome in an Uruguayan population. A prospective cohort study

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an acute autoimmune peripheral inflammatory neuropathy and the most frequent cause of non-poliovirus acute flaccid paralysis worldwide. Background annual GBS incidence rates (IRs) in Latin America (LA) varies from 0.40 to 2.12/100000 persons per year. We performed a prospective population-based epidemiological study to determine the incidence and clinical profile of GBS in the most densely populated regions in Uruguay. The incidence of GBS in the population living in Montevideo and Canelones was studied in the period between June 01, 2018 and May 31, 2020. Patients older than 16 years of age diagnosed with GBS were prospectively enrolled. The mean global annual IR in the Uruguayan population was 1.7/100000 persons (95% CI 1.25-2.25). The highest rate was observed in the 65 to 74 age group among men (5.25/100000 per year) and in the 55 to 64 age group among women (2/100.000 per year). The mean age was 53.9 ± 19.5, years, without difference by sex (53.5 women, 54.5 men). The in-hospital mortality rate was 5.8%. A total of 51 patients were diagnosed with GBS: 42 (82%) had typical GBS, 5 (10%) Miller-Fisher syndrome (MFS), 3 (7%) a bilateral facial nerve palsy, 1 patient had a GBS-MFS overlap (2.3%). This is the first population-based GBS incidence study in LA using a prospective design. Our IR can be a useful tool in establishing the background rate to examine future disease trends caused by the introduction of new viruses or vaccines in Uruguay.

Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome in children

Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome is a rare neuroimmunologic disorder typically presenting in previously healthy infants and toddlers. It is characterized by a clinical triad of (1) erratic saccadic intrusions; (2) myoclonus and/or ataxia; (3) behavioral features, typified by developmental plateauing, irritability and insomnia. About half of cases are associated with an underlying neuroblastoma and diagnostic imaging is essential once OMAS is suspected. A thorough workup, including serum, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid studies is critical to identify underlying biomarkers of OMAS itself or neuroblastoma. Historically, many children had relatively poor long-term outcomes, with residual neurologic and/or neuropsychiatry sequelae typical. More recent concepts have emphasized combined immunotherapy regimens that offer hope for better outcomes in children with this remarkable, challenging disease.

Lupus nephritis: correlation of immunohistochemical expression of C4d, CD163-positive M2c-like macrophages and Foxp3-expressing regulatory T cells with disease activity and chronicity

BACKGROUND

C4d, which is a serum complement cleavage product of the activated complement component C4, was found to be an accurate indicator of lupus activity compared to complement levels. Recently, macrophages have been considered to be pivotal members in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis (LN). M2c-like macrophages have anti-inflammatory functions and promote fibrosis. Multiple studies have detected that LN is associated with an imbalance between the regulatory T cell (Treg) population and the inflammatory T helper subtypes.

METHODS

We evaluated and scored the immunohistochemical expression of C4d, CD163-positive M2C-macrophages and Foxp3-expressing Tregs in 53 renal biopsies of LN. Their expression was scored and correlated with clinical and histological disease activity and chronicity.

RESULTS

Class IV was the most prevalent class (50.9%), followed by class III (17%). PTC-C4d intensity score, CD163% of positive M2c macrophages and FOXP3% of positive Tregs were significantly correlated with chronicity index (r_s = 0.292, p = 0.034; r_s = 0.407, p = 0.003; and r_s = 0.296, p = 0.031, respectively). Also, FOXP3% of positive Tregs was significantly correlated with LN class (r_s = 0.31, p = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

C4d-PTC, CD163-positive M2c macrophages and FOXP3-positive Tregs are markers that significantly correlated with chronicity in LN. Further studies are needed to evaluate their prognostic value.

Type I IFN-dependent antibody response at the basis of sex dimorphism in the outcome of COVID-19

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, induces severe pneumonia mainly in elderly males. Epidemiological data clearly indicate sex-based differences in disease outcomes, with men accounting for about 70 % of deaths, despite similar susceptibility to infection. It is well known that females are endowed with higher capacity to produce antibodies, which correlates with viral clearance and disease resolution in the context of SARS-Cov-2 infection. Many X-linked immune genes escape X inactivation showing biallelic expression in female immune cells, particularly in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). PDCs are more active in females and endowed with high capability to induce IFN-α-mediated B cell activation and differentiation into antibody-producing plasma cells throughout epigenetic mechanisms linked to trained immunity. Thus, we hypothesize that following SARS-CoV-2 infection, epigenetic modifications of X-linked genes involved in pDC-mediated type I IFN (IFN-I) signaling occurs more effectively in females, for inducing neutralizing antibody response as an immune correlate driving sex-biased disease outcome.

Pediatric whole body MRI detects causative ovarian teratoma in opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome

Opsoclonus Myoclonus Syndrome (OMS, or Opsoclonus Myoclonus Ataxia) is a rare condition that presents with saccadic movements of the eyes, cerebellar ataxia, and choreiform movements of the limbs. While previous reports have described the use of ultrasound, CT, FDG-PET and traditional focused MRI for localization of OMS-associated masses, whole body MRI has not previously been reported for this purpose. Here we describe a 16-year-old patient who exhibited OMS and underwent whole body MRI to rule out the more commonly associated neuroblastoma. An ovarian mass was discovered, resected, and pathology confirmed benign teratoma - there was subsequent resolution of symptoms after complete surgical resection. Whole body MRI should be considered in pediatric cases of OMS due to the paraneoplastic nature of the disease with associated tumor, high sensitivity of disease detection, lack of ionizing radiation, excellent tissue resolution and demonstrated effectiveness in pediatric imaging.

Neurologic complications of acute hepatitis E virus infection

Objective

To assess the prevalence and clinical features of neurologic involvement in patients with acute hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in Southern Switzerland.

Methods

Among 1,940 consecutive patients investigated for acute hepatitis E, we identified 141 cases of acute of HEV infection (anti-HEV immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G both reactive and/or HEV RNA positive) between June 2014 and September 2017. Neurologic cases were followed up for 6 months. We compared patients with and without neurologic symptoms.

Results

Neurologic symptoms occurred in 43 acute HEV cases (30.4%) and consisted of neuralgic amyotrophy (NA, n = 15, 10.6%) and myalgia (n = 28, 19.8%). All NA cases were immunocompetent. Men had higher odds (OR = 5.2, CI 1.12–24.0, p = 0.03) of developing NA after infection with HEV, and in 3 couples simultaneously infected with HEV, only men developed NA. Bilateral involvement of NA was predominant (2:1) and occurred only in men. Seven NA cases were viremic (all genotype 3), but HEV was undetectable in their CSF. In the acute phase of NA, 9 patients were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and 4 with prednisone, reporting no side effects and improvement in pain and strength. Myalgia occurred both without (n = 16) or with (n = 12) concomitant elevated serum creatinine kinase. Seven cases with myalgia in the shoulder girdle did not have muscle weakness (“forme fruste” of NA).

Conclusions

Neurologic symptoms occurred in one-third of acute HEV infections and consisted of NA and myalgia. NA seems to occur more frequently in men infected by HEV and has a predominant (but not exclusive) bilateral involvement.

Exacerbations of autoimmune diseases during pregnancy and postpartum

Autoimmune diseases represent a complex heterogeneous group of disorders that occur as a results of immune homeostasis dysregulation and loss of self-tolerance. Interestingly, more than 80% of the cases are found among women at reproductive age. Normal pregnancy is associated with remarkable changes in the immune and endocrine signaling required to tolerate and support the development and survival of the placenta and the semi-allogenic fetus in the hostile maternal immune system environment. Gravidity and postpartum represent an extremely challenge period, and likewise the general population, women suffering from autoimmune disorders attempt pregnancy. Effective preconception counseling and subsequent gestation and postpartum follow-up are crucial for improving mother and child outcomes. This comprehensive review provides information about the different pathways modulating autoimmune diseases activity and severity, such as the influence hormones, microbiome, infections, vaccines, among others, as well as updated recommendations were needed, in order to offer those women better medical care and life quality.

Seasonal variability in the activity of common chronic liver diseases

BACKGROUND: Seasonal variations in flu-like illnesses and vaccinations, vitamin D levels, alcohol intake, and sedentary lifestyles raise the possibility that seasonal variations exist in the severity of immune-mediated, alcohol, and obesity- or dyslipidemia-related chronic liver diseases, respectively. METHODS: We documented months–seasons in which biochemical evidence of disease activity is greatest in adult patients with common liver disorders. Months–seasons associated with peak liver enzyme levels in patients with largely immune-mediated disorders (autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis [PBC], and primary sclerosing cholangitis), alcoholic liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease were documented from a hospital-based, liver diseases outpatient clinic database. RESULTS: Aside from a spike in the severity of PBC during July ( p < .005), no significant associations were found between months–seasons and peak liver enzyme activities in any of these liver disorders. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that seasonal illnesses or immunizations and vitamin D depletion, alcohol intake, and sedentary lifestyle do not significantly exacerbate common underlying immune-mediated, alcohol, or metabolic liver disorders, respectively.

Predictive autoimmunity using autoantibodies: screening for anti-nuclear antibodies

Background:

Early detection of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in asymptomatic subjects is useful to predict autoimmune diseases years before diagnosis. ANA have been determined by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) using human epithelial type 2 (HEp-2) cells, which is considered the gold standard technique. Multiplex technology (BioPlex ANA Screen) has been introduced for ANA evaluation in recent years. Nevertheless, concordance between BioPlex and IIF is low and there is no harmonization between both methods for detection of autoantibodies. This study has aimed to clarify the clinical significance of autoantibodies detected by BioPlex ANA Screen in subjects with undiagnosed clinical suspicion of autoimmune disease and to determine the predictive value of autoantibodies detected by BioPlex ANA Screen.

Methods:

A 3-year follow-up study was performed of 411 subjects without a clear diagnosis of autoimmune diseases in whom autoantibodies were detected by BioPlex ANA Screen that were negative by IIF on HEp-2 cells.

Results:

At 3 years of follow-up, 312 (76%) subjects were positive for autoantibodies by IIF and 99 subjects continued to be negative. A diagnosis of autoimmune disease was found in most of the subjects (87%).

Conclusions:

BioPlex ANA Screen has greater sensitivity than IIF on HEp-2 cells for autoantibodies detection. Early detection of these antibodies by BioPlex can predict possible development of autoimmune diseases.

Autoimmune Disease in Women: Endocrine Transition and Risk Across the Lifespan

Women have a higher incidence and prevalence of autoimmune diseases than men, and 85% or more patients of multiple autoimmune diseases are female. Women undergo sweeping endocrinological changes at least twice during their lifetime, puberty and menopause, with many women undergoing an additional transition: pregnancy, which may or may not be accompanied by breastfeeding. These endocrinological transitions exert significant effects on the immune system due to interactions between the hormonal milieu, innate, and adaptive immune systems as well as pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and thereby modulate the susceptibility of women to autoimmune diseases. Conversely, pre-existing autoimmune diseases themselves impact endocrine transitions. Concentration-dependent effects of estrogen on the immune system; the role of progesterone, androgens, leptin, oxytocin, and prolactin; and the interplay between Th1 and Th2 immune responses together maintain a delicate balance between host defense, immunological tolerance and autoimmunity. In this review, multiple autoimmune diseases have been analyzed in the context of each of the three endocrinological transitions in women. We provide evidence from human epidemiological data and animal studies that endocrine transitions exert profound impact on the development of autoimmune diseases in women through complex mechanisms. Greater understanding of endocrine transitions and their role in autoimmune diseases could aid in prediction, prevention, and cures of these debilitating diseases in women.

Biofunctional Nanofibrous Substrate for Local TNF-Capturing as a Strategy to Control Inflammation in Arthritic Joints

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the synovial cavity of joints, and its pathogenesis is associated with an increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). It has been clinically shown to have an adequate response to systemic administration of TNF-α inhibitors, although with many shortcomings. To overcome such limitations, the immobilization of a TNF-α antibody on a nanofibrous substrate to promote a localized action is herein proposed. By using this approach, the antibody has its maximum therapeutic efficacy and a prolonged therapeutic benefit, avoiding the systemic side-effects associated with conventional biological agents' therapies. To technically achieve such a purpose, the surface of electrospun nanofibers is initially activated and functionalized, allowing TNF-α antibody immobilization at a maximum concentration of 6 µg/mL. Experimental results evidence that the biofunctionalized nanofibrous substrate is effective in achieving a sustained capture of soluble TNF-α over time. Moreover, cell biology assays demonstrate that this system has no deleterious effect over human articular chondrocytes metabolism and activity. Therefore, the developed TNF-capturing system may represent a potential therapeutic approach for the local management of severely affected joints.

Autoantibodies as Diagnostic Tools

Autoimmune diseases are very diverse and include many common diseases of unknown etiology.Diagnosis can be challenging but can be facilitated by the identification of characteristic autoantibodies (AuAbs), which are present in varying frequencies. Identification of such AuAbs requires a range of different techniques, depending on the autoantigens in question. Each individual AuAb assay is characterized by analytical sensitivity and specificity, which in turn determines clinical sensitivity and specificity in relation to diseases. Clinical sensitivities and specificities vary much, but many AuAb analyses can be of significant help in establishing correct diagnoses. It remains unsettled whether AuAbs are generally pathogenic, but it is generally agreed that autoimmune diseases are caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, and that early and correct diagnosis facilitates treatment.

IMMUNE MEDIATED DISEASES IN PATIENTS WITH CELIAC DISEASE AND THEIR RELATIVES: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF AGE AND SEX

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Up to 15% of other immune-mediated diseases (IMDs) can occur in patients with CD throughout their lives and are associated with multiple factors, including sex and sex hormone levels. Moreover, sex is associated with differences in clinical presentation, onset, progression, and outcomes of disorders. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of IMDs at diagnosis in patients with celiac disease (CD) and their first-degree relatives and to compare the findings between female and male patients of different age. METHODS: A retrospective study including Brazilian patients with CD who visited the same doctor during January 2012 to January 2017 was performed. Demographic and medical history data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and medical charts of the patients. In total, 213 patients were examined at diagnosis: 52 males (mean age, 40.0 years) and 161 females (mean age, 41.4 years). The patients were divided into two groups according to sex and age. RESULTS: IMDs were observed in 60.2% of the female (97/161) and 42.3% of the male patients (22/52; P=0.22). However, the frequency of IMDs was significantly higher in females aged 51-60 years than in males with same age (P=0.0002). Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) was significantly more prevalent in males (P=0.02), whereas atopy was more prevalent in females (P=0.02). IMDs observed in first-degree relatives were similar to those observed in patients (70.9%; P<0.001), with a higher number observed in female relatives. CONCLUSION: The frequency of IMDs in CD patients was similar in all age groups and both sexes, except women diagnosed with CD after 51 years of age presented with an increased frequency of IMDs compared with males. Dermatitis herpetiformis was more prevalent in males, whereas atopy was more prevalent in females. No difference was observed in the type of IMDs between the first-degree relatives of both sexes.

Lack of Association Between TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-10 Gene Polymorphisms and Rheumatic Heart Disease in South Indian Population

BACKGROUND

Proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of immune mediated inflammatory diseases including rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Polymorphisms in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interferon (IFN)-γ, and interleukin (IL)-10 genes influence the differential cytokine expression as well as the pathogenesis of various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to investigate the association between TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-10 gene polymorphisms and RHD in South Indian population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

TNF-α (-308, -238), IFN-γ (+874), and IL-10 (-1082, -819, -592) gene polymorphisms were determined in 100 patients with RHD and 127 healthy siblings by PCR.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the genotype, allele, and haplotype frequencies of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-10 polymorphisms between RHD patients and healthy siblings.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggests that TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-10 gene variants may not be associated with the development of RHD in South Indian population.

Thrombospondin-1 and disease progression in dysferlinopathy

The purpose of this study was to determine whether thrombospondin (TSP)-1 promotes macrophage activity and disease progression in dysferlinopathy. First, we found that levels of TSP-1 are elevated in blood of non-ambulant dysferlinopathy patients compared with ambulant patients and healthy controls, supporting the idea that TSP-1 levels are correlated with disease progression. We then crossed dysferlinopathic BlaJ mice with TSP-1 knockout mice and assessed disease progression longitudinally with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In these mice, deletion of TSP-1 ameliorated loss in volume and mass of the moderately affected gluteal muscle but not of the severely affected psoas muscle. T2 MRI parameters revealed that loss of TSP-1 modestly inhibited inflammation only in gluteal muscle of male mice. Histological assessment indicated that deletion of TSP-1 reduced inflammatory cell infiltration of muscle fibers, but only early in disease progression. In addition, flow cytometry analysis revealed that, in males, TSP-1 knockout reduced macrophage infiltration and phagocytic activity, which is consistent with TSP-1-enhanced phagocytosis and pro-inflammatory cytokine induction in cultured macrophages. In summary, TSP-1 appears to play an accessory role in modulating Mp activity in BlaJ mice in a gender, age and muscle-dependent manner, but is unlikely a primary driver of disease progression of dysferlinopathy.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress in autoimmune diseases: Can altered protein quality control and/or unfolded protein response contribute to autoimmunity? A critical review on Sjögren's syndrome

For many years, researchers in the field of autoimmunity have focused on the role of the immune components in the etiopathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. However, some studies have demonstrated the importance of target tissues in their pathogenesis and the breach of immune tolerance. The immune system as well as target tissue cells (plasmatic, β-pancreatic, fibroblast-like synoviocytes, thyroid follicular and epithelial cells of the lachrymal glands, salivary glands, intestine, bronchioles and renal tubules) share the characteristic of secretory cells with an extended endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The function of these cells depends considerably on a normal ER function and calcium homeostasis, so they can produce and secrete their main components, which include glycoproteins involved in antigenic presentation such as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II. All these proteins are synthesized and modified in the ER, and for this reason disturbances in the normal functions of this organelle such as protein folding, protein quality control, calcium homeostasis and redox balance, promote accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins, a condition known as ER stress. Autoimmune diseases are characterized by inflammation, which has been associated with an ER stress condition. Interestingly, patients with these diseases contain circulating auto-antibodies against chaperone proteins (such as Calnexin and GRP94), thus affecting the folding and assembly of MHC class I and II glycoproteins and their loading with peptide. The main purpose of this article is to review the involvement of the protein quality control and unfolded protein response (UPR) in the ER protein homeostasis (proteostasis) and their alterations in autoimmune diseases. In addition, we describe the interaction between ER stress and inflammation and evidences are shown of how autoimmune diseases are associated with an ER stress condition, with a special emphasis on the second most prevalent autoimmune rheumatic disease, Sjögren's syndrome.

Associations between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autoimmune diseases are modified by sex: a population-based cross-sectional study

Several studies have demonstrated associations between neuropsychiatric disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and the immune system, including autoimmune diseases. Since ADHD and many autoimmune diseases show sex-specific properties, such associations may also differ by sex. Using Norwegian national registries, we performed a cross-sectional study based on a cohort of 2,500,118 individuals to investigate whether ADHD is associated with common autoimmune diseases. Associations between ADHD and autoimmune diseases in females and males were investigated with logistic regression and effect modification by sex was evaluated. Several subanalyses were performed. The strongest association was found between ADHD and psoriasis in females, adjusted odds ratio (adjOR) = 1.57 (95% confidence interval: 1.46-1.68) and males, adjOR = 1.31 (1.23-1.40); p value for interaction < 0.0001. Furthermore, among females, ADHD was associated with Crohn's disease, adjOR = 1.44 (1.16-1.79) and ulcerative colitis, adjOR = 1.28 (1.06-1.54). In contrast, males with ADHD had lower odds of Crohn's disease, adjOR = 0.71 (0.54-0.92), in addition to a trend for lower odds of ulcerative colitis, adjOR = 0.86 (0.71-1.03); p values for interaction < 0.0001 and 0.0023, respectively. In a group of females where information on smoking and body mass index was available, adjustment for these potential mediators did not substantially alter the associations. Our findings support previously reported associations between ADHD and diseases of the immune system. The associations differ by sex, suggesting that sex-specific immune-mediated neurodevelopmental processes may be involved in the etiology of ADHD.

Celiac Disease Symptom Resolution: Effectiveness of the Gluten-free Diet

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of the gluten-free diet (GFD) on gastrointestinal (GI) and extra-intestinal (EI) symptom resolution and identify predictors for persistence of symptoms in all celiac patients at the University of Chicago.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review from 2002 to 2015. GI symptoms included abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, failure to thrive/weight loss, nausea, reflux, and vomiting. EI symptoms included abnormal liver enzymes, arthralgia/arthritis, dermatitis herpetiformis, alopecia, fatigue, headache, anemia, stomatitis, myalgia, psychiatric disorders, rashes, seizures, neuropathy, short stature, delayed puberty, osteoporosis, and infertility.

RESULTS

A total of 554 patients (227 children) with celiac disease (CeD) were included. Abdominal pain, diarrhea and failure to thrive were the most common GI symptoms in children whereas diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain were most common in adults. Short stature, fatigue, and headache were the most common EI symptoms in children whereas iron deficiency anemia, fatigue, and headache/psychiatric disorders were most common in adults. Children had significantly higher rates of EI and GI symptom resolution as compared to adults, with greater rates of improvements in GI versus EI symptoms at more than 24 months. Long duration of symptoms, female sex, and non-adherence to a GFD were the most important significant predictors of failure to clinically improve.

CONCLUSIONS

On a strict GFD, children report greater rates of both GI and EI symptom resolution as compared to adults with greater rates of improvement in GI over EI symptoms. Early recognition of CeD and close attention to diet adherence may help in symptom resolution.

Autoimmune diseases and breast cancer risk by tumor hormone-receptor status among elderly women

The female preponderance of many autoimmune diseases suggests a possible hormonal etiology. Little research exists on systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases and risk of breast cancer by tumor estrogen receptor (ER)- and progesterone receptor (PR)- status. Here, we evaluate associations between selected systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases and breast cancer risk overall and by tumor ER- and PR-status. We used linked Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare data, with first female breast cancer cases ages ≥66 years identified by SEER registries (years 1992-2011; N = 209,929). We selected female controls (N = 200,000) from a stratified 5% random sample of Medicare recipients who were alive and breast cancer-free. We assessed exposures until 12 months before breast cancer diagnosis/selection using Medicare claims data. We estimated odds ratios (OR) and 99.9% confidence intervals (CI) using unconditional and multinomial logistic regression. We found reduced breast cancer risk among those with rheumatoid arthritis (OR = 0.84; 99.9% CI 0.79-0.89), systemic lupus erythematosus (OR = 0.82; 99.9% CI 0.70-0.97) and pernicious anemia (OR = 0.90; 99.9% CI 0.83-0.97) and increased risk among those with psoriasis (OR = 1.16; 99.9% CI 1.06-1.27). Statistically significant alterations in risk for rheumatoid arthritis were limited to ER-positive (+) breast cancer, whereas those for the other three conditions were further limited to ER+/PR+ breast cancer. However, only differences for rheumatoid arthritis by ER-status were statistically significant (p-heterogeneity = 0.0001). The reasons for these associations need to be investigated in future studies accounting for host characteristics and autoimmune disease treatment.

Lead and cadmium exposure, higher thyroid antibodies and thyroid dysfunction in Chinese women

BACKGROUND

Exposure to lead(Pb) or cadmium(Cd) has been related to decreasing thyroxine in many previous studies. The underlying mechanisms have not been clarified. Heavy metal-induced thyroid autoimmunity in pregnant women has been found, despite having been rarely explored in the general population.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine whether the blood levels of lead(BPb) or cadmium(BCd) related to the levels of sera antibodies to thyroid proteins and thyroid dysfunction in the general population.

METHODS

Our study included 5628 Chinese adults and was based on the 2014 SPECT-China study. Thyroid dysfunction and subclinical thyroid dysfunction were defined by total triiodothyronine (TT3), total thyroxine(TT4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).Thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), thyroglobulin antibodies (TGAb), TT3, TT4, and TSH were measured by immunochemiluminometric assays. BPb and BCd levels were tested by atomic absorption spectrometry. Linear and logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations.

RESULTS

After adjustment for age, body mass index, smoking status (men only) and drinking status, the natural log(ln) BPb was positively related to the lnTPOAb (B = 0.062, P < 0.05) and to the lnTSH (B = 0.047, P < 0.01) in women. The lnBCd in women was positively related to the lnTGAb (B = 0.046, P < 0.05). In the adjusted logistic regression models, the BCd of women was positively related to their hypothyroid status and TGAb tertiles. The ORs of women in the middle and higher TPOAb tertiles were 1.38 (P < 0.001) and 1.35 (P < 0.001) times greater for every ln-unit increase in BPb, respectively. In men, no continuous correlation was found among variables.

CONCLUSIONS

In women, BPb and BCd levels were related to higher TSH and hypothyroid status, respectively, suggesting a Pb and Cd induction of sex-biased thyroid autoimmunity.

Ratio of Circulating Estrogen Receptors Beta and Alpha (ERβ/ERα) Indicates Endoscopic Activity in Patients with Crohn's Disease

BACKGROUND

Data supporting a role of female hormones and/or their receptors in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are increasing, but most of them are derived from animal models. Estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ) participate in immune and inflammatory response, among a variety of biological processes. Their effects are antagonistic, and the net action of estrogens may depend on their relative proportions.

AIM

To determine the possible association between the balance of circulating ERβ and ERα (ERβ/ERα) and IBD risk and activity.

METHODS

Serum samples from 145 patients with IBD (79 Crohn's disease [CD] and 66 ulcerative colitis [UC]) and 39 controls were retrospectively studied. Circulating ERα and ERβ were measured by ELISA. Disease activities were assessed by clinical and endoscopic indices specific for CD and UC.

RESULTS

Low values of ERβ/ERα ratio were directly associated with clinical (p = 0.019) and endoscopic (p = 0.002) disease activity. Further analyses by type of IBD confirmed a strong association between low ERβ/ERα ratio and CD clinical (p = 0.011) and endoscopic activity (p = 0.002). The receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis showed that an ERβ/ERα ratio under 0.85 was a good marker of CD endoscopic activity (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.84; p = 0.002; sensitivity: 70%; specificity: 91%). ERβ/ERα ratio was not useful to predict UC activity.

CONCLUSIONS

An ERβ/ERα ratio under 0.85 indicated CD endoscopic activity. The determination of serum ERβ/ERα might be a useful noninvasive screening tool for CD endoscopic activity.

A Toddler With Uncontrollable Shaking After a Minor Fall

A toddler with a closed head injury six days prior to admission, recently diagnosed with post-concussive syndrome and acute otitis media presented to our emergency department with complaint of uncontrollable shaking of the head and extremities. Physical examination demonstrated dancing movements of the eyes and truncal ataxia, concerning for the diagnosis of opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging study was consistent with a retroperitoneal mass that was confirmed as neuroblastoma by metaiodobenzylguanidine scan and later surgical resection. We present this case, accompanied by a video of the patient, to help the emergency physician recognize this rare and often misdiagnosed syndrome.

Applying the new SABV (sex as a biological variable) policy to research and clinical care

Sex as a biological variable (SABV) is a key part of the new National Institutes of Health (NIH) initiative to enhance reproducibility through rigor and transparency. The SABV policy requires researchers to factor sex into the design, analysis, and reporting of vertebrate animal and human studies. The policy was implemented as it has become increasingly clear that male/female differences extend well beyond reproductive and hormonal issues. Implementation of the policy is also meant to address inattention to sex influences in biomedical research. Sex affects: cell physiology, metabolism, and many other biological functions; symptoms and manifestations of disease; and responses to treatment. For example, sex has profound influences in neuroscience, from circuitry to physiology to pain perception. Extending beyond the robust efforts of NIH to ensure that women are included in clinical trials, the SABV policy also includes rigorous preclinical experimental designs that inform clinical research. Additionally, the NIH has engaged journal editors and publishers to facilitate reproducibility by addressing rigor and promoting transparency through scientifically appropriate sex-specific study results reporting. The Sex And Gender Equity in Research (SAGER) guidelines were developed to assist researchers and journal editors in reporting sex and gender information in publications [1].

The Sex and Gender Intersection in Chronic Periodontitis

Periodontitis, a complex polymicrobial inflammatory disease, is a public health burden affecting more than 100 million people and being partially responsible for tooth loss. Interestingly, periodontitis has a documented higher prevalence in men as compared to women signifying a possible sex/gender entanglement in the disease pathogenesis. Although relevant evidence has treated sex/gender in a simplistic dichotomous manner, periodontitis may represent a complex inflammatory disease model, in which sex biology may interfere with gender social and behavioral constructs affecting disease clinical phenotype. Even when it became clear that experimental oral health research needed to incorporate gender (and/or sex) framework in the hypothesis, researchers overwhelmingly ignored it unless the research question was directly related to reproductive system or sex-specific cancer. With the recognition of gender medicine as an independent field of research, this study challenged the current notion regarding sex/gender roles in periodontal disease. We aimed to develop the methodological and analytical framework with the recognition of sex/gender as important determinants of disease pathogenesis that require special attention. First, we aim to present relevant sex biologic evidence to understand the plausibility of the epidemiologic data. In periodontitis pathogenesis, sex dimorphism has been implicated in the disease etiology possibly affecting the bacterial component and the host immune response both in the innate and adaptive levels. With the clear distinction between sex and gender, gender oral health disparities have been explained by socioeconomic factors, cultural attitudes as well as access to preventive and regular care. Economic inequality and hardship for women have resulted in limited access to oral care. As a result, gender emerged as a complex socioeconomic and behavioral factor influencing oral health outcomes. Taken together, as disease phenotypic presentation is a multifactorial product of biology, behavior and the environment, sex dimorphism in immunity as well as gender socio-behavioral construct might play a role in the above model. Therefore, this paper will provide the conceptual framework and principles intergrading sex and gender within periodontal research in a complex biologic and socio-behavioral dimension.

Gender differences in liver disease and the drug-dose gender gap

Although gender-based medicine is a relatively recent concept, it is now emerging as an important field of research, supported by the finding that many diseases manifest differently in men and women and therefore, might require a different treatment. Sex-related differences regarding the epidemiology, progression and treatment strategies of certain liver diseases have long been known, but most of the epidemiological and clinical trials still report results only about one sex, with consequent different rate of response and adverse reactions to treatment between men and women in clinical practice. This review reports the data found in the literature concerning the gender-related differences for the most representative hepatic diseases.

Mesenchymal stem cells ameliorate B-cell-mediated immune responses and increase IL-10-expressing regulatory B cells in an EBI3-dependent manner

Effector B cells are central contributors to the development of autoimmune disease by activating autoreactive T cells, producing pro-inflammatory cytokines and organizing ectopic lymphoid tissue. Conversely, IL-10-producing regulatory B (Breg) cells have pivotal roles in maintaining immunological tolerance and restraining excessive inflammation in autoinflammatory disease. Thus, regulating the equilibrium between antibody-producing effector B cells and Breg cells is critical for the treatment of autoimmune disease. In this study, we investigated the effect of human palatine tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (T-MSCs) on estradiol (E2)-induced B-cell responses in vivo and in vitro. Transplantation of T-MSC into E2-treated mice alleviated B-cell-mediated immune responses and increased the population of IL-10-producing Breg cells. T-MSCs regulated the B-cell populations by producing Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-induced 3 (EBI3), one of the two subunits of IL-35 that is the well-known inducer of Breg cells. We demonstrate a critical role of EBI3 (IL-35) in vitro by depleting EBI3 in T-MSCs and by adding exogenous IL-35 to the culture system. Taken together, our data suggest that IL-35-secreting MSCs may become an attractive therapeutic to treat B-cell-mediated autoimmune diseases via expanding Breg cells.Cellular & Molecular Immunology advance online publication, 2 January 2017; doi:10.1038/cmi.2016.59.

Seasonality of blood neopterin levels in the Old Order Amish

Seasonal changes in non-human animals and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in humans are associated with immune activation in winter relative to summer. We intended to measure seasonal variation in neopterin, a marker of cellular immunity, and its interactions with gender and seasonality of mood. We studied 320 Amish from Lancaster, PA, USA (men = 128; 40%) with an average age [Standard deviation (SD)] of 56.7 (13.9) years. Blood neopterin level was measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Seasonality was measured with Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ). Statistical analysis included analysis of covariance (ANCOVAs) and multivariate linear regression. We also investigated interactions of seasonal differences in neopterin with gender, seasonality scores and estimation of SAD diagnosis. We found a significantly higher neopterin level in winter than in summer (p = 0.006). There were no significant gender or seasonality interactions. Our study confirmed the hypothesized higher neopterin level in winter. A cross sectional design was our major limitation. If this finding will be replicated by longitudinal studies in multiple groups, neopterin could be used to monitor immune status across seasons in demographically diverse samples, even if heterogeneous in gender distribution, and degree of seasonality of mood.

The Effect of Sex on the Azoxymethane/Dextran Sulfate Sodium-treated Mice Model of Colon Cancer

Background

The colitis-associated cancer exhibits different characteristics according to sex in the initiation and progression of the tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the sex-associated difference in the azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS)-induced colitis-associated cancer model.

Methods

The AOM/DSS ICR mouse model was established to compare male with female, and then the severity of colitis-associated carcinogenesis was examined macroscopically and histologically regarding the number, size, and location of tumors. Subsequently, levels of colonic mucosal cytokine, interleukin (IL)-1β and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were assessed.

Results

At the 16th week, the tumor multiplicity and the pro-inflammatory factors differed according to sex. The total tumor number was significantly higher in male (P = 0.020) and the number of large tumors (diameter > 2 mm) was higher in male (P = 0.026). In male, the tumors located more in distal colon (P = 0.001). MPO was significantly higher in AOM/DSS-treated male mice compared to the control group (P = 0.003), whereas the corresponding female group showed no significant change (P = 0.086). Colonic IL-1β level significantly increased in AOM/DSS groups compared to control groups both in male and female (male, P = 0.014; female, P = 0.005). It was higher in male group; however, there was no statistical significance (P = 0.226).

Conclusions

In AOM/DSS murine model, colitis-associated colon tumorigenesis are induced more severely in male mice than female probably by way of inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β and MPO. The sex-related differences at the animal model of colon cancer suggest the importance of approach to disease with sex-specific medicine in human.

Gonadectomy effects on the risk of immune disorders in the dog: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Gonadectomy is one of the most common procedures performed on dogs in the United States. Neutering has been shown to reduce the risk for some diseases although recent reports suggest increased prevalence for structural disorders and some neoplasias. The relation between neuter status and autoimmune diseases has not been explored. This study evaluated the prevalence and risk of atopic dermatitis (ATOP), autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), canine myasthenia gravis (CMG), colitis (COL), hypoadrenocorticism (ADD), hypothyroidism (HYPO), immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA), immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), lupus erythematosus (LUP), and pemphigus complex (PEMC), for intact females, intact males, neutered females, and neutered males. Pyometra (PYO) was evaluated as a control condition.

RESULTS

Patient records (90,090) from the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of California, Davis from 1995 to 2010 were analyzed in order to determine the risk of immune-mediated disease relative to neuter status in dogs. Neutered dogs had a significantly greater risk of ATOP, AIHA, ADD, HYPO, ITP, and IBD than intact dogs with neutered females being at greater risk than neutered males for all but AIHA and ADD. Neutered females, but not males, had a significantly greater risk of LUP than intact females. Pyometra was a greater risk for intact females.

CONCLUSIONS

The data underscore the importance of sex steroids on immune function emphasizing a role of these hormones on tissue self-recognition. Neutering is critically important for population control, reduction of reproductive disorders, and offers convenience for owners. Despite these advantages, the analyses of the present study suggest that neutering is associated with increased risk for certain autoimmune disorders and underscore the need for owners to consult with their veterinary practitioner prior to neutering to evaluate possible benefits and risks associated with such a procedure.