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Cuthbertson P, Button A, Sligar C, Elhage A, Vine KL, Watson D, Sluyter R. Post-Transplant Cyclophosphamide Combined with Brilliant Blue G Reduces Graft-versus-Host Disease without Compromising Graft-versus-Leukaemia Immunity in Humanised Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1775. [PMID: 38339054 PMCID: PMC10855770 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031775] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) leads to the establishment of graft-versus-leukaemia (GVL) immunity, but in many cases also results in the development of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). This study aimed to determine if P2X7 antagonism using Brilliant Blue G (BBG) could improve the beneficial effects of post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) in a humanised mouse model of GVHD, without comprising GVL immunity. NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Wjl (NSG) mice were injected with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) (Day 0), then with cyclophosphamide (33 mg/kg) on Days 3 and 4, and with BBG (50 mg/kg) (or saline) on Days 0-10. PTCy with BBG reduced clinical GVHD development like that of PTCy alone. However, histological analysis revealed that the combined treatment reduced liver GVHD to a greater extent than PTCy alone. Flow cytometric analyses revealed that this reduction in liver GVHD by PTCy with BBG corresponded to an increase in human splenic CD39+ Tregs and a decrease in human serum interferon-γ concentrations. In additional experiments, humanised NSG mice, following combined treatment, were injected with human THP-1 acute myeloid leukaemia cells on Day 14. Flow cytometric analyses of liver CD33+ THP-1 cells showed that PTCy with BBG did not mitigate GVL immunity. In summary, PTCy combined with BBG can reduce GVHD without compromising GVL immunity. Future studies investigating P2X7 antagonism in combination with PTCy may lead to the development of novel treatments that more effectively reduce GVHD in allogeneic HSCT patients without promoting leukaemia relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Cuthbertson
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (A.E.); (K.L.V.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Amy Button
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (A.E.); (K.L.V.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Chloe Sligar
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (A.E.); (K.L.V.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Amal Elhage
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (A.E.); (K.L.V.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Kara L. Vine
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (A.E.); (K.L.V.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Debbie Watson
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (A.E.); (K.L.V.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Ronald Sluyter
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (A.E.); (K.L.V.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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Elhage A, Cuthbertson P, Sligar C, Watson D, Sluyter R. A Species-Specific Anti-Human P2X7 Monoclonal Antibody Reduces Graft-versus-Host Disease in Humanised Mice. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2263. [PMID: 37765233 PMCID: PMC10536354 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a T cell-mediated inflammatory disorder that arises from allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and is often fatal. The P2X7 receptor is an extracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate-gated cation channel expressed on immune cells. Blockade of this receptor with small molecule inhibitors impairs GVHD in a humanised mouse model. A species-specific blocking monoclonal antibody (mAb) (clone L4) for human P2X7 is available, affording the opportunity to determine whether donor (human) P2X7 contributes to the development of GVHD in humanised mice. Using flow cytometric assays of human RPMI 8266 and murine J774 cells, this study confirmed that this mAb bound and impaired human P2X7. Furthermore, this mAb prevented the loss of human regulatory T cells (hTregs) and natural killer (hNK) T cells in vitro. NOD-scid IL2Rγnull mice were injected with 10 × 106 human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (Day 0) and an anti-hP2X7 or control mAb (100 μg i.p. per mouse, Days 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8). The anti-hP2X7 mAb increased hTregs and hNK cells at Day 21. Moreover, anti-hP2X7 mAb-treatment reduced clinical and histological GVHD in the liver and lung compared to the control treatment at disease endpoint. hTregs, hNK, and hNK T cell proportions were increased, and human T helper 17 cell proportions were decreased at endpoint. These studies indicate that blockade of human (donor) P2X7 reduces GVHD development in humanised mice, providing the first direct evidence of a role for donor P2X7 in GVHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal Elhage
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (A.E.); (P.C.); (C.S.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Peter Cuthbertson
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (A.E.); (P.C.); (C.S.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Chloe Sligar
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (A.E.); (P.C.); (C.S.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Debbie Watson
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (A.E.); (P.C.); (C.S.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Ronald Sluyter
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (A.E.); (P.C.); (C.S.); (D.W.)
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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Challenges and opportunities targeting mechanisms of epithelial injury and recovery in acute intestinal graft-versus-host disease. Mucosal Immunol 2022; 15:605-619. [PMID: 35654837 PMCID: PMC9259481 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-022-00527-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Despite advances in immunosuppressive prophylaxis and overall supportive care, gastrointestinal (GI) graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a major, lethal side effect after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). It has become increasingly clear that the intestinal epithelium, in addition to being a target of transplant-related toxicity and GVHD, plays an important role in the onset of GVHD. Over the last two decades, increased understanding of the epithelial constituents and their microenvironment has led to the development of novel prophylactic and therapeutic interventions, with the potential to protect the intestinal epithelium from GVHD-associated damage and promote its recovery following insult. In this review, we will discuss intestinal epithelial injury and the role of the intestinal epithelium in GVHD pathogenesis. In addition, we will highlight possible approaches to protect the GI tract from damage posttransplant and to stimulate epithelial regeneration, in order to promote intestinal recovery. Combined treatment modalities integrating immunomodulation, epithelial protection, and induction of regeneration may hold the key to unlocking mucosal recovery and optimizing therapy for acute intestinal GVHD.
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Watson D, Adhikary SR, Cuthbertson P, Geraghty NJ, Bird KM, Elhage A, Sligar C, Sluyter R. Humanized Mouse Model to Study the P2X7 Receptor in Graft-Versus-Host Disease. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2510:315-340. [PMID: 35776334 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2384-8_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Humanized mouse models of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), where human immune cells are injected into immune deficient mice, are well established and provide opportunities to investigate pathways involved in GVHD development. This chapter provides an overview of human immune cell isolation, injection of these cells into immune deficient mice, monitoring of mice for signs of GVHD, and assessment of human cell engraftment using flow cytometry. Further, this chapter focuses on the P2X7 signaling pathway involved in GVHD, and describes a strategy to block the P2X7 receptor and examine the effect of this on GVHD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie Watson
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - Sam R Adhikary
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Peter Cuthbertson
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Geraghty
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Katrina M Bird
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Amal Elhage
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Chloe Sligar
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Ronald Sluyter
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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Cuthbertson P, Geraghty NJ, Adhikary SR, Bird KM, Fuller SJ, Watson D, Sluyter R. Purinergic Signalling in Allogeneic Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Graft-versus-Host Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8343. [PMID: 34361109 PMCID: PMC8348324 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a curative therapy for blood cancers and other haematological disorders. However, allo-HSCT leads to graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a severe and often lethal immunological response, in the majority of transplant recipients. Current therapies for GVHD are limited and often reduce the effectiveness of allo-HSCT. Therefore, pro- and anti-inflammatory factors contributing to disease need to be explored in order to identify new treatment targets. Purinergic signalling plays important roles in haematopoiesis, inflammation and immunity, and recent evidence suggests that it can also affect haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and GVHD development. This review provides a detailed assessment of the emerging roles of purinergic receptors, most notably P2X7, P2Y2 and A2A receptors, and ectoenzymes, CD39 and CD73, in GVHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Cuthbertson
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (N.J.G.); (S.R.A.); (K.M.B.)
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Nicholas J. Geraghty
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (N.J.G.); (S.R.A.); (K.M.B.)
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Sam R. Adhikary
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (N.J.G.); (S.R.A.); (K.M.B.)
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Katrina M. Bird
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (N.J.G.); (S.R.A.); (K.M.B.)
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Stephen J. Fuller
- Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Penrith, NSW 2747, Australia;
| | - Debbie Watson
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (N.J.G.); (S.R.A.); (K.M.B.)
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Ronald Sluyter
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; (P.C.); (N.J.G.); (S.R.A.); (K.M.B.)
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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Chen W, Su G, Xu Y, Guo W, Bhansali R, Pan B, Kong Q, Cheng H, Cao J, Qi K, Zhu F, Li M, Zhu S, Zeng L, Li Z, Wu Q, Xu K. Caspase-1 inhibition ameliorates murine acute graft versus host disease by modulating the Th1/Th17/Treg balance. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 94:107503. [PMID: 33647825 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Our previous studies have implicated Caspase-1 signaling in driving the proinflammatory state of acute graft versus host disease (aGVHD). Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the mechanism of Caspase-1 in in murine models of aGVHD through specific inhibition of its activity with the decoy peptide Ac-YVAD-CMK. We transplanted bone marrow from donor C57BL/6 (H-2b) mice into recipient BALB/c (H-2Kd) mice and randomized the recipients into the following treatment cohorts: (1) allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and splenic cell infusion control (PBS group); (2) low dose Ac-YVAD-CMK (AC low group); (3) and high dose Ac-YVAD-CMK (AC high group). Indeed, we observed that Caspase-1 inhibition by Ac-YVAD-CMK ameliorated pathological damage and inflammation in the liver, lungs, and colon elicited by aGVHD. This was associated with reduced mortality secondary to aGVHD. Mechanistically, we found that Caspase-1 inhibition modulated donor T cell expansion, restored the balance of Th1/Th17/Treg subsets, and markedly decreased serum levels and aGVHD target organ mRNA expression of IL-1β, IL-18, and HMGB1. Thus, we demonstrate that inhibition of Caspase-1 by Ac-YVAD-CMK mitigates murine aGVHD by regulating Th1/Th17/Treg balance and attenuating its characteristic proinflammatory state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - GuiZhen Su
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; The Third People's Hospital of Bengbu, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wentong Guo
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rahul Bhansali
- Department of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
| | - Bin Pan
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - QingLing Kong
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
| | - Hai Cheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiang Cao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - KunMing Qi
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Miao Li
- Xuzhou Children's Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - ShengYun Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - LingYu Zeng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - ZhenYu Li
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qingyun Wu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - KaiLin Xu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Cuthbertson P, Geraghty NJ, Adhikary SR, Casolin S, Watson D, Sluyter R. P2X7 receptor antagonism increases regulatory T cells and reduces clinical and histological graft-versus-host disease in a humanised mouse model. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:495-513. [PMID: 33463682 DOI: 10.1042/cs20201352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a severe inflammatory response arising from allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Previous studies revealed that antagonism of the P2X7 receptor with Brilliant Blue G (BBG) reduced liver GVHD but did not alter clinical GVHD in a humanised mouse model. Therefore, the present study aimed to trial a modified injection regime using more frequent dosing of BBG to improve outcomes in this model of GVHD. NOD-scid IL2Rγnull (NSG) mice were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with 10 × 106 human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs) (day 0), then daily with BBG (50 mg/kg) or saline (days 0-10). BBG significantly reduced clinical score, mortality and histological GVHD compared with saline treatment (endpoint). BBG significantly increased proportions of human regulatory T cells (Tregs) and human B cells and reduced serum human interferon-γ compared with saline treatment prior to development of clinical GVHD (day 21). To confirm the therapeutic benefit of P2X7 antagonism, NSG mice were injected i.p. with 10 × 106 hPBMCs (day 0), then daily with pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS) (300 mg/kg) or saline (days 0-10). PPADS increased human Treg proportions compared with saline treatment (day 21), but potential clinical benefits were confounded by increased weight loss with this antagonist. To investigate the role of P2X7 antagonism on Treg survival, hPBMCs were cultured in reduced serum conditions to promote cell death. BBG increased proportions of Tregs (and B cells) compared with saline under these conditions. In conclusion, P2X7 antagonism reduces clinical and histological GVHD in a humanised mouse model corresponding to an increase in human Tregs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Cuthbertson
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Geraghty
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Sam R Adhikary
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Sienna Casolin
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Debbie Watson
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Ronald Sluyter
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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Increased P2X7 expression in the gastrointestinal tract and skin in a humanised mouse model of graft-versus-host disease. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:207-223. [PMID: 31934722 DOI: 10.1042/cs20191086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a curative therapy for blood cancers; but results in the development of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in up to 70% of recipients. During GVHD, tissue damage results in ATP release into the extracellular compartment activating P2X7 on antigen-presenting cells, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and subsequent activation of donor T cells. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine murine (m) P2rx7 and human (h) P2RX7 gene expression in GVHD target organs of humanised mice, and further characterise disease impact in these organs. METHODS NOD-scid IL2Rγnull (NSG) mice were injected with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hu-PBMC-NSG mice) or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, control). Leucocytes were assessed by flow cytometry; gene expression was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and tissue sections examined by histology. RESULTS Compared with control mice, hu-PBMC-NSG mice had increased mP2rx7 and mP2rx4 expression in the duodenum, ileum and skin. hP2RX7 was expressed in all tissues examined. hu-PBMC-NSG mice also displayed increased mReg3g expression in the duodenum and ileum, despite limited histological gut GVHD. hu-PBMC-NSG mice showed histological evidence of GVHD in the skin, liver and lung. Compared with control mice, hu-PBMC-NSG mice displayed increased ear swelling. CONCLUSION Combined data revealed that P2rx7 is up-regulated in gut and skin GVHD and that P2RX7 is present in target tissues of GVHD, corresponding to human leucocyte infiltration. Data also reveal increased mReg3g expression and ear swelling in hu-PBMC-NSG mice, offering new measurements of early-stage gut GVHD and skin GVHD, respectively.
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Koldej RM, Perera T, Collins J, Ritchie DS. Association between P2X7 Polymorphisms and Post-Transplant Outcomes in Allogeneic Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113772. [PMID: 32471261 PMCID: PMC7312926 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) is a highly effective treatment method for haematologic malignancies. However, infection of acute organ dysfunction and graft versus host disease (GVHD) impact negatively on patient outcomes. Pre-transplant conditioning regimes are associated with high levels of immunogenic cell death and the release of extracellular ATP, which binds to the P2X7 receptor. It has been proposed that signaling through the P2X7 receptor may lead to activation of downstream effectors that influence alloSCT outcome. In this study, we examined the effect of gain-of-function (GOF) or loss-of-function (LOF) P2X7 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNP) in 453 paired alloSCT donors and recipients and correlated their presence or absence to the major post-transplant outcomes of acute GVHD, relapse free survival and overall survival. The allelic frequency of P2X7 SNP in recipients and donors was not different from those SNP for which there is published population data. The LOF SNP Glu496Ala was overrepresented in recipients who did not develop severe acute GVHD and was associated with improved overall survival in rare homozygous recipients, whereas the LOF SNP Ile568Asn was more common in patients with grade 1–4 GVHD but lost statistical association in patients with grade 2–4 aGVHD, and was associated with reduced overall survival in heterozygotes due to an excess of infection-related deaths. The GOF variant haplotype (homozygous Gln460Arg-Ala348Thr) had no impact on post-alloSCT outcomes. Overall, our data indicate that allelic variations in recipients or donors occurs at the same frequency as the general population and may have a minor, but clinically nominal, impact on post-alloSCT outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Koldej
- ACRF Translational Research Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia; (T.P.); (J.C.); (D.S.R.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-8559-7264
| | - Travis Perera
- ACRF Translational Research Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia; (T.P.); (J.C.); (D.S.R.)
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Jenny Collins
- ACRF Translational Research Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia; (T.P.); (J.C.); (D.S.R.)
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - David S Ritchie
- ACRF Translational Research Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia; (T.P.); (J.C.); (D.S.R.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
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10
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Yoshida S, Hagiwara Y, Tsuchiya M, Shinoda M, Koide M, Hatakeyama H, Chaweewannakorn C, Suzuki K, Yano T, Sogi Y, Itaya N, Sekiguchi T, Yabe Y, Sasaki K, Kanzaki M, Itoi E. Involvement of inflammasome activation via elevation of uric acid level in nociception in a mouse model of muscle pain. Mol Pain 2020; 15:1744806919858797. [PMID: 31161887 PMCID: PMC6614954 DOI: 10.1177/1744806919858797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscle pain is a common condition in many diseases and is induced by muscle
overuse. Muscle overuse induces an increase in uric acid, which stimulates the
nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor (NLR). This receptor
contains the pyrin domain NLRP-3 inflammasome which when activated, results in
the secretion of potent pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β
(IL-1β). The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of
inflammasome activation via the elevation of uric acid level in nociception in a
mouse model of muscle pain. The right hind leg muscles of BALB/c mice were
stimulated electrically to induce excessive muscle contraction. The left hind
leg muscles were not stimulated as a control. Mechanical withdrawal thresholds,
levels of uric acid, IL-1β, and NLRP3, caspase-1 activity, and the number of
macrophages were investigated. Furthermore, the effects of xanthine oxidase
inhibitors, such as Brilliant Blue G, caspase-1 inhibitor, and clodronate
liposome, on pain were investigated. In the stimulated muscles, mechanical
withdrawal thresholds decreased, and the levels of uric acid, NLRP3, and IL-1β,
caspase-1 activity, and the number of macrophages increased compared to that in
the non-stimulated muscles. Administration of the inhibitors attenuated
hyperalgesia caused by excessive muscle contraction. These results suggested
that IL-1β secretion and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in macrophages produced
mechanical hyperalgesia by elevating uric acid level, and xanthine oxidase
inhibitors may potentially reduce over-exercised muscle pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichirou Yoshida
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Hagiwara
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Masamichi Shinoda
- 3 Department of Physiology, Nihon University School of Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Koide
- 4 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Matsuda Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiroyasu Hatakeyama
- 5 Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Kazuaki Suzuki
- 6 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, JR Sendai Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Toshihisa Yano
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Sogi
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Itaya
- 6 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, JR Sendai Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takuya Sekiguchi
- 7 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Iwate Prefectural Central Hospital, Morioka, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yabe
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Keiichi Sasaki
- 8 Division of Advanced Prosthetic Dentistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Sendai, Japan
| | - Makoto Kanzaki
- 5 Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Eiji Itoi
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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11
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Adhikary SR, Geraghty NJ, Cuthbertson P, Sluyter R, Watson D. Altered donor P2X7 activity in human leukocytes correlates with P2RX7 genotype but does not affect the development of graft-versus-host disease in humanised mice. Purinergic Signal 2019; 15:177-192. [PMID: 31001750 PMCID: PMC6635536 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-019-09651-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a life-threatening consequence of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, a curative therapy for haematological malignancies. The ATP-gated P2X7 receptor channel is implicated in the development of GVHD. P2X7 activity on human leukocytes can be influenced by gain-of-function (GOF) and loss-of-function (LOF) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the P2RX7 gene. In this study, the P2RX7 gene was sequenced in 25 human donors and the P2X7 activity on subsets of peripheral blood T cells, natural killer (NK) cells and monocytes was measured using an ATP-induced dye uptake assay. GOF and LOF SNPs representing 10 of the 17 known P2RX7 haplotypes were identified, and correlated with P2X7 activity on all leukocyte subsets investigated. Notably, invariant (i) NK T cells displayed the highest P2X7 activity amongst all cell types studied. To determine if donor P2X7 activity influenced the development of GVHD, immunodeficient NOD-SCID-IL2Rγnull (NSG) mice were injected with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from donors of either GOF (hP2X7GOF mice) or LOF (hP2X7LOF mice) P2RX7 genotype. Both hP2X7GOF and hP2X7LOF mice demonstrated similar human leukocyte engraftment, and showed comparable weight loss, GVHD clinical score and overall survival. Donor P2X7 activity did not affect human leukocyte infiltration or GVHD-mediated tissue damage, or the relative expression of human P2X7 or human interferon-γ (hIFNγ) in tissues. Finally, hP2X7GOF and hP2X7LOF mice demonstrated similar concentrations of serum hIFNγ. This study demonstrates that P2X7 activity correlates with donor P2RX7 genotype on human leukocyte subsets important in GVHD development, but does not affect GVHD development in a humanised mouse model of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Adhikary
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - N J Geraghty
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - P Cuthbertson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - R Sluyter
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
| | - D Watson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
- Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
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12
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Geraghty NJ, Watson D, Sluyter R. Pharmacological blockade of the CD39/CD73 pathway but not adenosine receptors augments disease in a humanized mouse model of graft-versus-host disease. Immunol Cell Biol 2019; 97:597-610. [PMID: 30957314 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a curative therapy for a number of hematological malignancies, but is limited by the development of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). CD39 and CD73 form an ectoenzymatic pathway that hydrolyzes extracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine, which respectively exacerbate or alleviate disease in allogeneic mouse models of GVHD. The current study aimed to explore the role of the CD39/CD73 pathway and adenosine receptor (AR) blockade in a humanized mouse model of GVHD. Immunodeficient nonobese diabetic-severe combined immunodeficiency-IL-2 receptor γnull mice were injected with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and subsequently injected with the CD39/CD73 antagonist αβ-methylene-ADP (APCP) (50 mg kg-1 ) or saline for 7 days, or the AR antagonist caffeine (10 mg kg-1 ) or saline for 14 days. Mice predominantly engrafted human CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, with smaller proportions of human regulatory T cells, invariant natural killer T cells, monocytes and dendritic cells. Neither APCP nor caffeine altered engraftment of these human leukocyte subsets. APCP (CD39/CD73 blockade) augmented GVHD as shown through increased weight loss and worsened liver histology, including increased leukocyte and human T-cell infiltration, and increased apoptosis. This treatment also increased serum human IL-2 concentrations and decreased the frequency of human CD39- CD73- CD4+ T cells. In contrast, caffeine (AR blockade) did not alter GVHD severity or human serum cytokine concentrations (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 or tumor necrosis factor-α). In conclusion, blockade of CD39/CD73 but not ARs augments disease in a humanized mouse model of GVHD. These results indicate that CD39/CD73 blockade maintains sufficient extracellular ATP concentrations to promote GVHD in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Geraghty
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia.,Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia
| | - Debbie Watson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia.,Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia
| | - Ronald Sluyter
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia.,Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, 2252, Australia
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13
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Purine nucleosides and nucleotides are released in the extracellular space following cell injury and act as paracrine mediators through a number of dedicated membrane receptors. In particular, extracellular ATP (eATP) significantly influences T-lymphocyte activation and phenotype. The purpose of this review is to discuss the role of ATP signaling in the T-cell-mediated alloimmune response. RECENT FINDINGS In various animal models of solid transplantation, the purinergic axis has been targeted to prevent acute rejection and to promote long-term graft tolerance. The inhibition of ATP-gated P2X receptors has been shown to halt lymphocyte activation, to downregulate both Th1 and Th17 responses and to promote T-regulatory (Treg) cell differentiation. Similarly, the inhibition of ATP signaling attenuated graft-versus-host disease in mice undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation. Significantly, different drugs targeting the purinergic system have been recently approved for human use and may be a viable therapeutic option for transplant patients. SUMMARY The inhibition of eATP signaling downregulates the alloimmune response, expands Treg cells and promotes graft survival. This robust preclinical evidence and the recent advances in pharmacological research may lead to intriguing clinical applications.
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14
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Hamers AAJ, Joshi SK, Pillai AB. Innate Immune Determinants of Graft-Versus-Host Disease and Bidirectional Immune Tolerance in Allogeneic Transplantation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 3. [PMID: 33511333 PMCID: PMC7839993 DOI: 10.21926/obm.transplant.1901044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The success of tissue transplantation from a healthy donor to a diseased individual (allo-transplantation) is regulated by the immune systems of both donor and recipient. Developing a state of specific non-reactivity between donor and recipient, while maintaining the salutary effects of immune function in the recipient, is called “immune (transplantation) tolerance”. In the classic early post-transplant period, minimizing bidirectional donor ←→ recipient reactivity requires the administration of immunosuppressive drugs, which have deleterious side effects (severe immunodeficiency, opportunistic infections, and neoplasia, in addition to drug-specific reactions and organ toxicities). Inducing immune tolerance directly through donor and recipient immune cells, particularly via subsets of immune regulatory cells, has helped to significantly reduce side effects associated with multiple immunosuppressive drugs after allo-transplantation. The innate and adaptive arms of the immune system are both implicated in inducing immune tolerance. In the present article, we will review innate immune subset manipulations and their potential applications in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) to cure malignant and non-malignant hematological disorders by inducing long-lasting donor ←→ recipient (bidirectional) immune tolerance and reduced graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). These innate immunotherapeutic strategies to promote long-term immune allo-transplant tolerance include myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), regulatory macrophages, tolerogenic dendritic cells (tDCs), Natural Killer (NK) cells, invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cells, gamma delta T (γδ-T) cells and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouk A J Hamers
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology / Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Batchelor Children's Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sunil K Joshi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology / Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Batchelor Children's Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Asha B Pillai
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology / Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Batchelor Children's Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Holtz Children's Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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15
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Geraghty NJ, Watson D, Sluyter R. Long-term treatment with the P2X7 receptor antagonist Brilliant Blue G reduces liver inflammation in a humanized mouse model of graft-versus-host disease. Cell Immunol 2018; 336:12-19. [PMID: 30545568 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a frequent curative therapy for numerous haematological malignancies. However, HSCT is limited by the occurrence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), with current therapies restricted to general immunosuppression. Activation of the P2X7 receptor by extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) causes inflammation and tissue damage in GVHD. Short-term pharmacological blockade of P2X7 has been shown to reduce clinical disease and/or reduce inflammatory markers in allogeneic and humanized mouse models of GVHD. The current study demonstrates that long-term P2X7 blockade by intra-peritoneal injection of Brilliant Blue G (BBG) thrice weekly for up to 10 weeks did not impact human (h) peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) engraftment, predominantly T cells, in blood at 3 weeks post-hPBMC injection or in spleens at end-point in humanized mice. Histological analysis demonstrated long-term BBG treatment reduced leukocyte infiltration in the livers of humanized mice. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that BBG treatment reduced liver apoptosis. Long-term BBG treatment did not alter clinical disease, mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory markers in tissues or serum human interferon (IFN)-γ concentrations. Therefore, this study demonstrates that P2X7 activation plays a role in GVHD pathogenesis in the livers of humanized mice, supporting a role for this receptor in GVHD development in HSCT recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Geraghty
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia; Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia
| | - D Watson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia; Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia.
| | - R Sluyter
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia; Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2252, Australia.
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16
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Neutrophils provide cellular communication between ileum and mesenteric lymph nodes at graft-versus-host disease onset. Blood 2018; 131:1858-1869. [PMID: 29463561 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2017-10-812891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Conditioning-induced damage of the intestinal tract plays a critical role during the onset of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Therapeutic interference with these early events of GVHD is difficult, and currently used immunosuppressive drugs mainly target donor T cells. However, not donor T cells but neutrophils reach the sites of tissue injury first, and therefore could be a potential target for GVHD prevention. A detailed analysis of neutrophil fate during acute GVHD and the effect on T cells is difficult because of the short lifespan of this cell type. By using a novel photoconverter reporter system, we show that neutrophils that had been photoconverted in the ileum postconditioning later migrated to mesenteric lymph nodes (mLN). This neutrophil migration was dependent on the intestinal microflora. In the mLN, neutrophils colocalized with T cells and presented antigen on major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-II, thereby affecting T cell expansion. Pharmacological JAK1/JAK2 inhibition reduced neutrophil influx into the mLN and MHC-II expression, thereby interfering with an early event in acute GVHD pathogenesis. In agreement with this finding, neutrophil depletion reduced acute GVHD. We conclude that neutrophils are attracted to the ileum, where the intestinal barrier is disrupted, and then migrate to the mLN, where they participate in alloantigen presentation. JAK1/JAK2-inhibition can interfere with this process, which provides a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent early events of tissue damage-related innate immune cell activation and, ultimately, GVHD.
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17
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Yoshida S, Hagiwara Y, Tsuchiya M, Shinoda M, Koide M, Hatakeyama H, Chaweewannakorn C, Yano T, Sogi Y, Itaya N, Sekiguchi T, Yabe Y, Sasaki K, Kanzaki M, Itoi E. Involvement of neutrophils and interleukin-18 in nociception in a mouse model of muscle pain. Mol Pain 2018; 14:1744806918757286. [PMID: 29353540 PMCID: PMC5802617 DOI: 10.1177/1744806918757286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscle pain is a common condition that relates to various pathologies. Muscle overuse induces muscle pain, and neutrophils are key players in pain production. Neutrophils also play a central role in chronic pain by secreting interleukin (IL)-18. The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of neutrophils and IL-18 in a mouse model of muscle pain. The right hind leg muscles of BALB/c mice were stimulated electrically to induce excessive muscle contraction. The left hind leg muscles were not stimulated. The pressure pain threshold, number of neutrophils, and IL-18 levels were investigated. Furthermore, the effects of the IL-18-binding protein and Brilliant Blue G on pain were investigated. In stimulated muscles, pressure pain thresholds decreased, and neutrophil and IL-18 levels increased compared with that in non-stimulated muscles. The administration of IL-18-binding protein and Brilliant Blue G attenuated hyperalgesia caused by excessive muscle contraction. These results suggest that increased IL-18 secretion from larger numbers of neutrophils elicits mechanical hyperalgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichirou Yoshida
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Hagiwara
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Masamichi Shinoda
- 3 Department of Functional Anatomy and Neuroscience, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masashi Koide
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiroyasu Hatakeyama
- 4 Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Toshihisa Yano
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Sogi
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Itaya
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takuya Sekiguchi
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yabe
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Keiichi Sasaki
- 4 Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Sendai, Japan
| | - Makoto Kanzaki
- 4 Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Sendai, Japan
| | - Eiji Itoi
- 1 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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18
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Willebrords J, Maes M, Crespo Yanguas S, Vinken M. Inhibitors of connexin and pannexin channels as potential therapeutics. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 180:144-160. [PMID: 28720428 PMCID: PMC5802387 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
While gap junctions support the exchange of a number of molecules between neighboring cells, connexin hemichannels provide communication between the cytosol and the extracellular environment of an individual cell. The latter equally holds true for channels composed of pannexin proteins, which display an architecture reminiscent of connexin hemichannels. In physiological conditions, gap junctions are usually open, while connexin hemichannels and, to a lesser extent, pannexin channels are typically closed, yet they can be activated by a number of pathological triggers. Several agents are available to inhibit channels built up by connexin and pannexin proteins, including alcoholic substances, glycyrrhetinic acid, anesthetics and fatty acids. These compounds not always strictly distinguish between gap junctions, connexin hemichannels and pannexin channels, and may have effects on other targets as well. An exception lies with mimetic peptides, which reproduce specific amino acid sequences in connexin or pannexin primary protein structure. In this paper, a state-of-the-art overview is provided on inhibitors of cellular channels consisting of connexins and pannexins with specific focus on their mode-of-action and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost Willebrords
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sara Crespo Yanguas
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium.
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19
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Geraghty NJ, Belfiore L, Ly D, Adhikary SR, Fuller SJ, Varikatt W, Sanderson-Smith ML, Sluyter V, Alexander SI, Sluyter R, Watson D. The P2X7 receptor antagonist Brilliant Blue G reduces serum human interferon-γ in a humanized mouse model of graft-versus-host disease. Clin Exp Immunol 2017; 190:79-95. [PMID: 28665482 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a major problem after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, a curative therapy for haematological malignancies. Previous studies have demonstrated a role for the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-gated P2X7 receptor channel in allogeneic mouse models of GVHD. In this study, injection of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) into immunodeficient non-obese diabetic-severe combined immunodeficiency-interleukin (NOD-SCID-IL)-2Rγnull (NSG) mice established a humanized mouse model of GVHD. This model was used to study the effect of P2X7 blockade in this disease. From five weeks post-PBMC injection, humanized mice exhibited clinical signs and histopathology characteristic of GVHD. The P2X7 antagonist, Brilliant Blue G (BBG), blocked ATP-induced cation uptake into both murine and human cells in vitro. Injection of BBG (50 mg/kg) into NSG mice did not affect engraftment of human leucocytes (predominantly T cells), or the clinical score and survival of mice. In contrast, BBG injection reduced circulating human interferon (IFN)-γ significantly, which was produced by human CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. BBG also reduced human T cell infiltration and apoptosis in target organs of GVHD. In conclusion, the P2X7 antagonist BBG reduced circulating IFN-γ in a humanized mouse model of GVHD supporting a potential role for P2X7 to alter the pathology of this disease in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Geraghty
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - L Belfiore
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - D Ly
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - S R Adhikary
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - S J Fuller
- Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - W Varikatt
- Sydney Medical School Westmead, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, NSW, Australia.,Institute for Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, Westmead, NSW Health Pathology, Australia
| | - M L Sanderson-Smith
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - V Sluyter
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - S I Alexander
- Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - R Sluyter
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - D Watson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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20
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Ferrara JL, Smith CM, Sheets J, Reddy P, Serody JS. Altered homeostatic regulation of innate and adaptive immunity in lower gastrointestinal tract GVHD pathogenesis. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:2441-2451. [PMID: 28581444 DOI: 10.1172/jci90592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality from GVHD after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Recent data indicate that lower GI tract GVHD is a complicated process mediated by donor/host antigenic disparities. This process is exacerbated by significant changes to the microbiome, and innate and adaptive immune responses that are critical to the induction of disease, persistence of inflammation, and a lack of response to therapy. Here, we discuss new insights into the biology of lower GI tract GVHD and focus on intrinsic pathways and regulatory mechanisms crucial to normal intestinal function. We then describe multiple instances in which these homeostatic mechanisms are altered by donor T cells or conditioning therapy, resulting in exacerbation of GVHD. We also discuss data suggesting that some of these mechanisms produce biomarkers that could be informative as to the severity of GVHD and its response to therapy. Finally, novel therapies that might restore homeostasis in the GI tract during GVHD are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Lm Ferrara
- Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Academic Informatics and Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Christopher M Smith
- Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Academic Informatics and Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Julia Sheets
- University of North Carolina Hospital, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Pavan Reddy
- Department of Medicine and University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jonathan S Serody
- Department of Medicine and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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21
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Toubai T, Mathewson ND, Magenau J, Reddy P. Danger Signals and Graft-versus-host Disease: Current Understanding and Future Perspectives. Front Immunol 2016; 7:539. [PMID: 27965667 PMCID: PMC5126092 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Graft-versus-host response after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HCT) represents one of the most intense inflammatory responses observed in humans. Host conditioning facilitates engraftment of donor cells, but the tissue injury caused from it primes the critical first steps in the development of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Tissue injuries release pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) through widespread stimulation of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) by the release of danger stimuli, such as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). DAMPs and PAMPs function as potent stimulators for host and donor-derived antigen presenting cells (APCs) that in turn activate and amplify the responses of alloreactive donor T cells. Emerging data also point towards a role for suppression of DAMP induced inflammation by the APCs and donor T cells in mitigating GVHD severity. In this review, we summarize the current understanding on the role of danger stimuli, such as the DAMPs and PAMPs, in GVHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomomi Toubai
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center , Ann Arbor, MI , USA
| | - Nathan D Mathewson
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute , Boston, MA , USA
| | - John Magenau
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center , Ann Arbor, MI , USA
| | - Pavan Reddy
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center , Ann Arbor, MI , USA
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Apostolova P, Zeiser R. The Role of Purine Metabolites as DAMPs in Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease. Front Immunol 2016; 7:439. [PMID: 27818661 PMCID: PMC5073102 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) causes high mortality in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. An early event in the classical pathogenesis of acute GvHD is tissue damage caused by the conditioning treatment or infection that consecutively leads to translocation of bacterial products [pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs)] into blood or lymphoid tissue, as well as danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), mostly intracellular components that act as pro-inflammatory agents, once they are released into the extracellular space. A subtype of DAMPs is nucleotides, such as adenosine triphosphate released from dying cells that can activate the innate and adaptive immune system by binding to purinergic receptors. Binding to certain purinergic receptors leads to a pro-inflammatory microenvironment and promotes allogeneic T cell priming. After priming, T cells migrate to the acute GvHD target organs, mainly skin, liver, and the gastrointestinal tract and induce cell damage that further amplifies the release of intracellular components. This review summarizes the role of different purinergic receptors in particular P2X7 and P2Y2 as well as nucleotides in the pathogenesis of GvHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petya Apostolova
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Center, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany
| | - Robert Zeiser
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Center, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany
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