1
|
Forsyth KS, Jiwrajka N, Lovell CD, Toothacre NE, Anguera MC. The conneXion between sex and immune responses. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:487-502. [PMID: 38383754 PMCID: PMC11216897 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-00996-9] [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] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
There are notable sex-based differences in immune responses to pathogens and self-antigens, with female individuals exhibiting increased susceptibility to various autoimmune diseases, and male individuals displaying preferential susceptibility to some viral, bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections. Although sex hormones clearly contribute to sex differences in immune cell composition and function, the presence of two X chromosomes in female individuals suggests that differential gene expression of numerous X chromosome-linked immune-related genes may also influence sex-biased innate and adaptive immune cell function in health and disease. Here, we review the sex differences in immune system composition and function, examining how hormones and genetics influence the immune system. We focus on the genetic and epigenetic contributions responsible for altered X chromosome-linked gene expression, and how this impacts sex-biased immune responses in the context of pathogen infection and systemic autoimmunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Forsyth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nikhil Jiwrajka
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Claudia D Lovell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Natalie E Toothacre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Young NA, Schwarz E, Zeno BM, Bruckner S, Mesa RA, Jablonski K, Wu LC, Roberson EDO, Jarjour WN. Inhibition of miRNA associated with a disease-specific signature and secreted via extracellular vesicles of systemic lupus erythematosus patients suppresses target organ inflammation in a humanized mouse model. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1090177. [PMID: 38939646 PMCID: PMC11208704 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1090177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Distinct, disease-associated intracellular miRNA (miR) expression profiles have been observed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) patients. Additionally, we have identified novel estrogenic responses in PBMCs from SLE patients and demonstrated that estrogen upregulates toll-like receptor (TLR)7 and TLR8 expression. TLR7 and TLR8 bind viral-derived single-stranded RNA to stimulate innate inflammatory responses, but recent studies have shown that miR-21, mir-29a, and miR-29b can also bind and activate these receptors when packaged and secreted in extracellular vesicles (EVs). The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of EV-encapsulated small RNA species in SLE and examine the therapeutic approach of miR inhibition in humanized mice. Methods Plasma-derived EVs were isolated from SLE patients and quantified. RNA was then isolated and bulk RNA-sequencing reads were analyzed. Also, PBMCs from active SLE patients were injected into immunodeficient mice to produce chimeras. Prior to transfer, the PBMCs were incubated with liposomal EVs containing locked nucleic acid (LNA) antagonists to miR-21, mir-29a, and miR-29b. After three weeks, blood was collected for both immunophenotyping and cytokine analysis; tissue was harvested for histopathological examination. Results EVs were significantly increased in the plasma of SLE patients and differentially expressed EV-derived small RNA profiles were detected compared to healthy controls, including miR-21, mir-29a, and miR-29b. LNA antagonists significantly reduced proinflammatory cytokines and histopathological infiltrates in the small intestine, liver, and kidney, as demonstrated by H&E-stained tissue sections and immunohistochemistry measuring human CD3. Discussion These data demonstrate distinct EV-derived small RNA signatures representing SLE-associated biomarkers. Moreover, targeting upregulated EV-encapsulated miR signaling by antagonizing miRs that may bind to TLR7 and TLR8 reveals a novel therapeutic opportunity to suppress autoimmune-mediated inflammation and pathogenesis in SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Young
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Emily Schwarz
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Braden M. Zeno
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Shane Bruckner
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Rosana A. Mesa
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Kyle Jablonski
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Lai-Chu Wu
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Elisha D. O. Roberson
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Genetics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Wael N. Jarjour
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Popotas A, Casimir GJ, Corazza F, Lefèvre N. Sex-related immunity: could Toll-like receptors be the answer in acute inflammatory response? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1379754. [PMID: 38835761 PMCID: PMC11148260 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1379754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of studies have highlighted the existence of a sex-specific immune response, wherein men experience a worse prognosis in cases of acute inflammatory diseases. Initially, this sex-dependent inflammatory response was attributed to the influence of sex hormones. However, a growing body of evidence has shifted the focus toward the influence of chromosomes rather than sex hormones in shaping these inflammatory sex disparities. Notably, certain pattern recognition receptors, such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and their associated immune pathways have been implicated in driving the sex-specific immune response. These receptors are encoded by genes located on the X chromosome. TLRs are pivotal components of the innate immune system, playing crucial roles in responding to infectious diseases, including bacterial and viral pathogens, as well as trauma-related conditions. Importantly, the TLR-mediated inflammatory responses, as indicated by the production of specific proteins and cytokines, exhibit discernible sex-dependent patterns. In this review, we delve into the subject of sex bias in TLR activation and explore its clinical implications relatively to both the X chromosome and the hormonal environment. The overarching objective is to enhance our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying these sex differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Popotas
- Laboratory of Pediatrics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Georges Jacques Casimir
- Laboratory of Pediatrics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Pulmonology, Allergology and Cystic Fibrosis, Queen Fabiola Childrens University Hospital (Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola) – University Hospital of Brussels (Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francis Corazza
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Brugmann, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Lefèvre
- Laboratory of Pediatrics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Pulmonology, Allergology and Cystic Fibrosis, Queen Fabiola Childrens University Hospital (Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola) – University Hospital of Brussels (Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles), Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Balan I, Boero G, Chéry SL, McFarland MH, Lopez AG, Morrow AL. Neuroactive Steroids, Toll-like Receptors, and Neuroimmune Regulation: Insights into Their Impact on Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:582. [PMID: 38792602 PMCID: PMC11122352 DOI: 10.3390/life14050582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnane neuroactive steroids, notably allopregnanolone and pregnenolone, exhibit efficacy in mitigating inflammatory signals triggered by toll-like receptor (TLR) activation, thus attenuating the production of inflammatory factors. Clinical studies highlight their therapeutic potential, particularly in conditions like postpartum depression (PPD), where the FDA-approved compound brexanolone, an intravenous formulation of allopregnanolone, effectively suppresses TLR-mediated inflammatory pathways, predicting symptom improvement. Additionally, pregnane neurosteroids exhibit trophic and anti-inflammatory properties, stimulating the production of vital trophic proteins and anti-inflammatory factors. Androstane neuroactive steroids, including estrogens and androgens, along with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), display diverse effects on TLR expression and activation. Notably, androstenediol (ADIOL), an androstane neurosteroid, emerges as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, promising for therapeutic interventions. The dysregulation of immune responses via TLR signaling alongside reduced levels of endogenous neurosteroids significantly contributes to symptom severity across various neuropsychiatric disorders. Neuroactive steroids, such as allopregnanolone, demonstrate efficacy in alleviating symptoms of various neuropsychiatric disorders and modulating neuroimmune responses, offering potential intervention avenues. This review emphasizes the significant therapeutic potential of neuroactive steroids in modulating TLR signaling pathways, particularly in addressing inflammatory processes associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. It advances our understanding of the complex interplay between neuroactive steroids and immune responses, paving the way for personalized treatment strategies tailored to individual needs and providing insights for future research aimed at unraveling the intricacies of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina Balan
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Giorgia Boero
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - Samantha Lucenell Chéry
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Neuroscience Curriculum, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Minna H. McFarland
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Neuroscience Curriculum, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Alejandro G. Lopez
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - A. Leslie Morrow
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gudi RR, Johnson BM, Gaudreau MC, Sun W, Ball L, Vasu C. Intestinal permeability and inflammatory features of juvenile age correlate with the eventual systemic autoimmunity in lupus-prone female SWR × NZB F1 (SNF1) mice. Immunology 2024; 171:235-249. [PMID: 37947218 PMCID: PMC10842200 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13713] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is about nine times higher in women than in men, and the underlying mechanisms that contribute to this gender bias are not fully understood. Previously, using lupus-prone (SWR × NZB)F1 (SNF1) mice, we have shown that the intestinal immune system could play a role in the initiation and progression of disease in SLE, and depletion of gut microbiota produces more pronounced disease protection in females than in males. Here, we show that the gut permeability features of lupus-prone female SNF1 mice at juvenile ages directly correlate with the expression levels of pro-inflammatory factors, faecal IgA abundance and nAg reactivity and the eventual systemic autoantibody levels and proteinuria onset. Furthermore, we observed that the disease protection achieved in female SNF1 mice upon depletion of gut microbiota correlates with the diminished gut inflammatory protein levels, intestinal permeability and circulating microbial DNA levels. However, faecal microbiota transplant from juvenile male and females did not result in modulation of gut inflammatory features or permeability. Overall, these observations suggest that the early onset of intestinal inflammation, systemic autoantibody production and clinical stage disease in lupus-prone females is linked to higher gut permeability in them starting at as early as juvenile age. While the higher gut permeability in juvenile lupus-prone females is dependent on the presence of gut microbes, it appears to be independent of the composition of gut microbiota.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radhika R Gudi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Benjamin M Johnson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Marie-Claude Gaudreau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Lauren Ball
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Chenthamarakshan Vasu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chuphal B, Sathoria P, Rai U, Roy B. Sexual dimorphism in NLR transcripts and its downstream signaling protein IL-1ꞵ in teleost Channa punctata (Bloch, 1793). Sci Rep 2024; 14:1923. [PMID: 38253695 PMCID: PMC10803744 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51702-7] [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: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors (NOD-like receptors or NLRs) are a family of intracellular pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that initiates as well as regulate inflammatory responses. NLRs are characterized by a centrally located nucleotide binding domain and a leucine rich repeat domain at the C-terminal responsible for the recognition of intracellular microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) and danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). In the present study in adult spotted snakehead we have investigated the sex-dependent tissue distribution of NLRs known to be associated with inflammation in teleost namely NOD1, NOD2, NLRC3, NLRC5, and NLRX1. Further, the sexual dimorphism in the expression of NLR transcript as well as the pro-inflammatory protein IL-1β was explored in fish under normal conditions, and in fish exposed to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The NLRs show ubiquitous and constitutive expression in all the tissues. Moreover, a prominent disparity between males and females was observed in the basal expression of these genes in various tissues. The sexual dimorphism in NLR expression was also prominent when fish were exposed to LPS. Similarly, IL-1β exhibited sexual dimorphism in both normal as well as LPS-exposed fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhawna Chuphal
- Department of Zoology, Miranda House, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Priyanka Sathoria
- Department of Zoology, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, Chanakyapuri, Delhi, 110021, India
| | - Umesh Rai
- University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu, 180006, India.
| | - Brototi Roy
- Department of Zoology, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, Chanakyapuri, Delhi, 110021, India.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Drevinge C, Scheffler JM, Nordqvist J, Engdahl C, Carlsten H, Islander U. Treatment with a tissue-selective oestrogen complex does not affect disease pathology but reduces pre-BI cells in lupus-prone mice. Scand J Rheumatol 2024; 53:49-58. [PMID: 37722827 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2023.2251753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is an autoimmune disease characterized by B-cell dysfunction, production of autoantibodies, and immune complex formation. Lupus is overrepresented in females, indicating that sex hormones play a role in the pathophysiology. Treatment with a tissue-selective oestrogen complex (TSEC) containing conjugated oestrogens and the selective oestrogen receptor modulator bazedoxifene (BZA) protects against postmenopausal vasomotor symptoms and osteoporosis, but its impact on organ damage in lupus is not fully understood. METHOD We used ovariectomized MRL/lpr mice, treated with two different physiological doses of 17β-oestradiol-3-benzoate (E2), BZA, or TSEC (E2 plus BZA), to assess early and late B-cell development and to determine histological disease manifestations in the kidneys and salivary glands. RESULTS TSEC treatment reduced the frequency of the pre-BI population in bone marrow to levels equivalent to treatment with physiological doses of E2 alone but did not affect any of the other examined B-cell populations. Our earlier studies indicated that TSEC treatment did not aggravate disease development in ovariectomized MRL/lpr mice, while protecting against trabecular bone loss. Here, we follow up on our previous study and show that neither ovariectomy alone nor TSEC treatment of ovariectomized MRL/lpr mice influenced perivascular lymphocyte infiltration to the kidneys or salivary glands. CONCLUSION TSEC does not aggravate a mouse model of lupus, when given in doses that protect against postmenopausal lupus-associated bone loss. This indicates that further investigations into TSEC as a treatment for osteoporosis or vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women with SLE are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Drevinge
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - J M Scheffler
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - J Nordqvist
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - C Engdahl
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- SciLifeLab, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - H Carlsten
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - U Islander
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- SciLifeLab, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ren W, Zhao L, Sun Y, Wang X, Shi X. HMGB1 and Toll-like receptors: potential therapeutic targets in autoimmune diseases. Mol Med 2023; 29:117. [PMID: 37667233 PMCID: PMC10478470 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00717-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
HMGB1, a nucleoprotein, is expressed in almost all eukaryotic cells. During cell activation and cell death, HMGB1 can function as an alarm protein (alarmin) or damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) and mediate early inflammatory and immune response when it is translocated to the extracellular space. The binding of extracellular HMGB1 to Toll-like receptors (TLRs), such as TLR2 and TLR4 transforms HMGB1 into a pro-inflammatory cytokine, contributing to the occurrence and development of autoimmune diseases. TLRs, which are members of a family of pattern recognition receptors, can bind to endogenous DAMPs and activate the innate immune response. Additionally, TLRs are key signaling molecules mediating the immune response and play a critical role in the host defense against pathogens and the maintenance of immune balance. HMGB1 and TLRs are reported to be upregulated in several autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and autoimmune thyroid disease. The expression levels of HMGB1 and some TLRs are upregulated in tissues of patients with autoimmune diseases and animal models of autoimmune diseases. The suppression of HMGB1 and TLRs inhibits the progression of inflammation in animal models. Thus, HMGB1 and TLRs are indispensable biomarkers and important therapeutic targets for autoimmune diseases. This review provides comprehensive strategies for treating or preventing autoimmune diseases discovered in recent years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenxuan Ren
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Xichang Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaoguang Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Masenga SK, Mweene BC, Luwaya E, Muchaili L, Chona M, Kirabo A. HIV-Host Cell Interactions. Cells 2023; 12:1351. [PMID: 37408185 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) was a great milestone in the management of HIV infection. ARVs suppress viral activity in the host cell, thus minimizing injury to the cells and prolonging life. However, an effective treatment has remained elusive for four decades due to the successful immune evasion mechanisms of the virus. A thorough understanding of the molecular interaction of HIV with the host cell is essential in the development of both preventive and curative therapies for HIV infection. This review highlights several inherent mechanisms of HIV that promote its survival and propagation, such as the targeting of CD4+ lymphocytes, the downregulation of MHC class I and II, antigenic variation and an envelope complex that minimizes antibody access, and how they collaboratively render the immune system unable to mount an effective response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sepiso K Masenga
- HAND Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mulungushi University, Livingstone Campus, Livingstone 10101, Zambia
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Room 536 Robinson Research Building, Nashville, TN 37232-6602, USA
| | - Bislom C Mweene
- HAND Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mulungushi University, Livingstone Campus, Livingstone 10101, Zambia
| | - Emmanuel Luwaya
- HAND Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mulungushi University, Livingstone Campus, Livingstone 10101, Zambia
| | - Lweendo Muchaili
- HAND Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mulungushi University, Livingstone Campus, Livingstone 10101, Zambia
| | - Makondo Chona
- HAND Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mulungushi University, Livingstone Campus, Livingstone 10101, Zambia
| | - Annet Kirabo
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Room 536 Robinson Research Building, Nashville, TN 37232-6602, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sisk-Hackworth L, Kelley ST, Thackray VG. Sex, puberty, and the gut microbiome. Reproduction 2023; 165:R61-R74. [PMID: 36445259 PMCID: PMC9847487 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In brief Sex differences in the gut microbiome may impact multiple aspects of human health and disease. In this study, we review the evidence for microbial sex differences in puberty and adulthood and discuss potential mechanisms driving differentiation of the sex-specific gut microbiome. Abstract In humans, the gut microbiome is strongly implicated in numerous sex-specific physiological processes and diseases. Given this, it is important to understand how sex differentiation of the gut microbiome occurs and how these differences contribute to host health and disease. While it is commonly believed that the gut microbiome stabilizes after 3 years of age, our review of the literature found considerable evidence that the gut microbiome continues to mature during and after puberty in a sex-dependent manner. We also review the intriguing, though sparse, literature on potential mechanisms by which host sex may influence the gut microbiome, and vice versa, via sex steroids, bile acids, and the immune system. We conclude that the evidence for the existence of a sex-specific gut microbiome is strong but that there is a dearth of research on how host-microbe interactions lead to this differentiation. Finally, we discuss the types of future studies needed to understand the processes driving the maturation of sex-specific microbial communities and the interplay between gut microbiota, host sex, and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott T. Kelley
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California 92182
| | - Varykina G. Thackray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Young NA, Hampton J, Sharma J, Jablonski K, DeVries C, Bratasz A, Wu LC, Lustberg M, Reinbolt R, Jarjour WN. Aromatase-Inhibitor-Induced Musculoskeletal Inflammation Is Observed Independent of Oophorectomy in a Novel Mouse Model. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15121578. [PMID: 36559029 PMCID: PMC9785754 DOI: 10.3390/ph15121578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) block estrogen production and improve survival in patients with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. However, half of patients develop aromatase-inhibitor-induced arthralgia (AIIA), which is characterized by inflammation of the joints and the surrounding musculoskeletal tissue. To create a platform for future interventional strategies, our objective was to characterize a novel animal model of AIIA. Female BALB/C-Tg(NFκB-RE-luc)-Xen mice, which have a firefly luciferase NFκB reporter gene, were oophorectomized and treated with an AI (letrozole). Bioluminescent imaging showed significantly enhanced NFκB activation with AI treatment in the hind limbs. Moreover, an analysis of the knee joints and legs via MRI showed enhanced signal detection in the joint space and the surrounding tissue. Surprisingly, the responses observed with AI treatment were independent of oophorectomy, indicating that inflammation is not mediated by physiological estrogen levels. Histopathological and pro-inflammatory cytokine analyses further demonstrated the same trend, as tenosynovitis and musculoskeletal infiltrates were detected in all mice receiving AI, and serum cytokines were significantly upregulated. Human PBMCs treated with letrozole/estrogen combinations did not demonstrate an AI-specific gene expression pattern, suggesting AIIA-mediated pathogenesis through other cell types. Collectively, these data identify an AI-induced stimulation of disease pathology and suggest that AIIA pathogenesis may not be mediated by estrogen deficiency, as previously hypothesized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Young
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jeffrey Hampton
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Juhi Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Kyle Jablonski
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Courtney DeVries
- Department of Medicine, WVU Cancer Institute, WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Anna Bratasz
- Small Animal Imaging Core, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Lai-Chu Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Maryam Lustberg
- Smilow Cancer Hospital/Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Raquel Reinbolt
- Department of Internal Medicine, The James Cancer Hospital, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Wael N. Jarjour
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-614-366-7016; Fax: +1-614-366-0980
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dodd KC, Menon M. Sex bias in lymphocytes: Implications for autoimmune diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:945762. [PMID: 36505451 PMCID: PMC9730535 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.945762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are characterized by a significant sex dimorphism, with women showing increased susceptibility to disease. This is, at least in part, due to sex-dependent differences in the immune system that are influenced by the complex interplay between sex hormones and sex chromosomes, with contribution from sociological factors, diet and gut microbiota. Sex differences are evident in the number and function of lymphocyte populations. Women mount a stronger pro-inflammatory response than males, with increased lymphocyte proliferation, activation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production, whereas men display expanded regulatory cell subsets. Ageing alters the immune landscape of men and women in differing ways, resulting in changes in autoimmune disease susceptibility. Here we review the current literature on sex differences in lymphocyte function, the factors that influence this, and the implications for autoimmune disease. We propose that improved understanding of sex bias in lymphocyte function can provide sex-specific tailoring of treatment strategies for better management of autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine C. Dodd
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Division of Immunology, Immunity to Infection and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom,Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Madhvi Menon
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Division of Immunology, Immunity to Infection and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Madhvi Menon,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ozaki M, Glasgow A, Oglesby IK, Ng WL, Kelly S, Greene CM, Durcan L, Hurley K. Sexual Dimorphism in Interstitial Lung Disease. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123030. [PMID: 36551792 PMCID: PMC9775147 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are a group of heterogeneous progressive pulmonary disorders, characterised by tissue remodelling and/or fibrotic scarring of the lung parenchyma. ILD patients experience lung function decline with progressive symptoms, poor response to treatment, reduced quality of life and high mortality. ILD can be idiopathic or associated with systemic or connective tissue diseases (CTD) but idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common form. While IPF has a male predominance, women are affected more greatly by CTD and therefore associated ILDs. The mechanisms behind biological sex differences in these progressive lung diseases remain unclear. However, differences in environmental exposures, variable expression of X-chromosome related inflammatory genes and sex hormones play a role. Here, we will outline sex-related differences in the incidence, progression and mechanisms of action of these diseases and discuss existing and novel cellular and pre-clinical studies. Furthermore, we will highlight how sex-differences are not adequately considered in pre-clinical disease models, how gender bias exists in clinical diagnosis and how women are underrepresented in clinical trials. Future action on these observations will hopefully shed light on the role of biological sex in disease development, identify potential targets for intervention and increase female participant numbers in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mari Ozaki
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, D09 YD60 Dublin 9, Ireland
- Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, D02 YN77 Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Arlene Glasgow
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, D09 YD60 Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Irene K. Oglesby
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, D09 YD60 Dublin 9, Ireland
- Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, D02 YN77 Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Wan Lin Ng
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, D09 YD60 Dublin 9, Ireland
- Department of Rheumatology, Beaumont Hospital, D09V2N0 Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Sile Kelly
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, D09 YD60 Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, D09 YD60 Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Laura Durcan
- Department of Rheumatology, Beaumont Hospital, D09V2N0 Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Killian Hurley
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, D09 YD60 Dublin 9, Ireland
- Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, D02 YN77 Dublin 2, Ireland
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kim JW, Kim HA, Suh CH, Jung JY. Sex hormones affect the pathogenesis and clinical characteristics of systemic lupus erythematosus. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:906475. [PMID: 36035435 PMCID: PMC9402996 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.906475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affects women more frequently than men, similar to the female predilection for other autoimmune diseases. Moreover, male patients with SLE exhibit different clinical features than female patients. Sex-associated differences in SLE required special considerations for disease management such as during pregnancy or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Sex hormones, namely, estrogen and testosterone, are known to affect immune responses and autoimmunity. While estrogen and progesterone promote type I immune response, and testosterone enhances T-helper 1 response. Sex hormones also influence Toll-like receptor pathways, and estrogen receptor signaling is involved in the activation and tolerance of immune cells. Further, the clinical features of SLE vary according to hormonal changes in female patients. Alterations in sex hormones during pregnancy can alter the disease activity of SLE, which is associated with pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, HRT may change SLE status. Sex hormones affect the pathogenesis, clinical features, and management of SLE; thus, understanding the occurrence and exacerbation of disease caused by sex hormones is necessary to improve its management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Won Kim
- Department of Rheumatology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Hyoun-Ah Kim
- Department of Rheumatology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Chang-Hee Suh
- Department of Rheumatology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Ju-Yang Jung
- Department of Rheumatology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kettelhut A, Bowman E, Gabriel J, Hand B, Liyanage NPM, Kulkarni M, Avila-Soto F, Lake JE, Funderburg NT. Estrogen May Enhance Toll-Like Receptor 4-Induced Inflammatory Pathways in People With HIV: Implications for Transgender Women on Hormone Therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:879600. [PMID: 35720418 PMCID: PMC9205606 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.879600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transgender women (TW) are at increased risk for both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Antiretroviral therapy-treated HIV has been associated with a two-fold increased risk of CVD, potentially due to dysregulated Toll-like receptor (TLR)-induced immune activation. Use of estrogens in feminizing hormone therapy (FHT) may enhance inflammatory responses and the risk of cardiovascular mortality in TW. Despite this, the immunomodulatory effects of estrogen use in TW with HIV have been inadequately explored. Methods As an in vitro model for FHT, cryopreserved PBMCs (cryoPBMCs) from HIV negative (HIV-), HIV+ ART-suppressed (HIV+SP), and HIV+ ART-unsuppressed (HIV+USP) cisgender men were cultured overnight in the presence of 17-β estradiol or 17-α ethinylestradiol with and without the TLR4 agonist LPS or the TLR8 agonist ssPolyU. Monocyte activation (CD69, HLA-DR, CD38) was assessed by flow cytometry. Cytokine levels (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10) were measured in cell culture supernatants by Legendplex. Levels of phosphorylated TLR signaling molecules (JNK, MAPK p38) were assessed by Phosflow. Plasma levels of immune activation biomarkers (LPS-binding protein, monocyte activation markers sCD14 and sCD163, and inflammatory molecules IL-6 and TNF-α receptor I) were measured by ELISA. Results PBMCs from people with HIV (PWH) produced greater levels of inflammatory cytokines following exposure to LPS or ssPolyU compared to levels from cells of HIV- individuals. While estrogen exposure alone induced mild changes in immune activation, LPS-induced TLR4 activation was elevated with estrogen in cisgender men (CM) with HIV, increasing monocyte activation and inflammatory cytokine production (IL-6, TNF-α). Interestingly, testosterone inhibited LPS-induced cytokine production in CM regardless of HIV status. Plasma markers of immune activation and microbial translocation (e.g., sCD14, sCD163, LPS-binding protein) were generally higher in PWH compared to HIV- CM, and these markers were positively associated with in vitro responsiveness to estrogen and LPS in CM with HIV. Conclusions Our in vitro data suggest that estrogen exposure may enhance innate immune activation in PWH. Further examination is needed to fully understand the complex interactions of FHT, HIV, and CVD in TW, and determine optimal FHT regimens or supplementary treatments aimed at reducing excess immune activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaren Kettelhut
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Emily Bowman
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Janelle Gabriel
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Brittany Hand
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Namal P. M. Liyanage
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Manjusha Kulkarni
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Frances Avila-Soto
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jordan E. Lake
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nicholas T. Funderburg
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Singh RP, Hahn BH, Bischoff DS. Identification and Contribution of Inflammation-Induced Novel MicroRNA in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Front Immunol 2022; 13:848149. [PMID: 35444657 PMCID: PMC9013931 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.848149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently microRNAs (miRNAs) have been recognized as powerful regulators of many genes and pathways involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). SLE is an autoimmune disease characterized by production of various autoantibodies, inflammatory immune cells, and dysregulation of epigenetic changes. Several candidate miRNAs regulating inflammation and autoimmunity in SLE are described. In this study, we found significant increases in the expression of miR21, miR25, and miR186 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of SLE patients compared to healthy controls. However, miR146a was significantly decreased in SLE patients compared to healthy controls and was negatively correlated with plasma estradiol levels and with SLE disease activity scores (SLEDAI). We also found that protein levels of IL-12 and IL-21 were significantly increased in SLE patients as compared to healthy controls. Further, our data shows that protein levels of IL-12 were positively correlated with miR21 expression and protein levels of IL-21 positively correlated with miR25 and miR186 expression in SLE patients. In addition, we found that levels of miR21, miR25, and miR186 positively correlated with SLEDAI and miR146a was negatively correlated in SLE patients. Thus, our data shows a dynamic interplay between disease pathogenesis and miRNA expression. This study has translational potential and may identify novel therapeutic targets in patients with SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ram P Singh
- Research Service, Veteran Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Division of Rheumatology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Bevra H Hahn
- Division of Rheumatology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - David S Bischoff
- Research Service, Veteran Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Murray LM, Thillaiyampalam G, Xi Y, Cristino AS, Upham JW. Whole transcriptome analysis of high and low IFN-α producers reveals differential response patterns following rhinovirus stimulation. Clin Transl Immunology 2021; 10:e1356. [PMID: 34868584 PMCID: PMC8599968 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Viral respiratory infections cause considerable morbidity and economic loss. While rhinoviruses (RV) typically cause little more than the common cold, they can produce severe infections and disease exacerbations in susceptible individuals, such as those with asthma. Variations in the regulation of key antiviral cytokines, particularly type I interferon (IFN‐α and IFN‐β), may contribute to RV susceptibility. To understand this variability, we compared the transcriptomes of high and low type I IFN producers. Methods Blood mononuclear cells from 238 individuals with or without asthma were cultured in the presence or absence of RV. Those samples demonstrating high or low RV‐stimulated IFN‐α production (N = 75) underwent RNA‐sequencing. Results Gene expression patterns were similar in samples from healthy participants and those with asthma. At baseline, the high IFN‐α producer group showed higher expression of genes associated with plasmacytoid dendritic cells, the innate immune response and vitamin D activation, but lower expression of oxidative stress pathways than the low IFN‐α producer group. After RV stimulation, the high IFN‐α producer group showed higher expression of genes found in immune response biological pathways and lower expression of genes linked to developmental and catabolic processes when compared to the low IFN‐α producer group. Conclusions These differences suggest that the high IFN‐α group has a higher level of immune system readiness, resulting in a more intense and perhaps more focussed pathogen‐specific immune response. These results contribute to a better understanding of the variability in type I IFN production between individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liisa M Murray
- Diamantina Institute The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - Gayathri Thillaiyampalam
- Diamantina Institute The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia.,Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery Griffith University Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - Yang Xi
- Diamantina Institute The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - Alexandre S Cristino
- Diamantina Institute The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia.,Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery Griffith University Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - John W Upham
- Diamantina Institute The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia.,Respiratory and Sleep Medicine Princess Alexandra Hospital Brisbane QLD Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Guimarães TT, Gomes SMR, Albuquerque RAAC, Lima AKC, Braga GF, Souza JB, Assis M, Brito ACS, Santos RF, Da Silva T, Siqueira LM, Ventura BD, Rodrigues LS, Terra R, Da Silva SAG, Dutra PML. Chronic Aerobic Training at Different Volumes in the Modulation of Macrophage Function and in vivo Infection of BALB/c Mice by Leishmania major. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:734355. [PMID: 34616386 PMCID: PMC8489854 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.734355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical inactivity is one of the main causes of chronic diseases; however, strenuous exercise can induce immunosuppression. Several studies suggest that moderate amounts of exercise lead to a Th1 response, favoring the resolution of infections caused by intracellular microorganisms, while high volumes of exercise tend to direct the response to Th2, favoring infection by them. Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease promoted by parasites of the Leishmania genus, with clinical manifestations that vary according to the species of the parasite and the immune response of the host. The experimental Leishmania major–BALB/C mouse model provides a good model for the resistance (Th1 response) or susceptibility (Th2 response) that determines the progression of this infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of aerobic training at different volumes on modulation of in vitro macrophage infection by L. major, as well as to assess the effect of high volume (HV) aerobic training on the development of L. major in vivo in BALB/c mice. Uninfected animals were submitted to various exercise volumes: none (SED), light (LV), moderate (MV), high (HV), very high (VHV), and tapering (TAP). The macrophages of these animals were infected by L. major and the LV and MV groups showed a decrease in the infection factor, while the VHV showed an increase in the infection factor, when treated with LPS. The cytokine concentration pattern measured in the supernatants of these macrophages suggested a predominant Th1 response profile in the LV and MV groups, while the Th2 profile predominated in the VHV and TAP groups. Groups of BALB/C mice infected with L. major were subjected to high volume (iHV) or non-periodized high volume (iNPHV) exercise or kept sedentary (iSED). The exercised animals suffered a significant increase in injuries caused by the parasites. The animals in the group submitted to high volume exercise (iHV) showed visceralization of the infection. These data strongly suggest that a very high volume of aerobic training increased the susceptibility of BALB/C mice to L. major infection, while moderate distribution of training loads promoted immunological balance, better controlling the infection by this parasite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T T Guimarães
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - S M R Gomes
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - R A A C Albuquerque
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A K C Lima
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - G F Braga
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - J B Souza
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - M Assis
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A C S Brito
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - R F Santos
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - T Da Silva
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - L M Siqueira
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - B D Ventura
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - L S Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - R Terra
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Colégio Brigadeiro Newton Braga (CBNB), Diretoria de Ensino (DIRENS), Força Aérea Brasileira (FAB), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - S A G Da Silva
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - P M L Dutra
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Identification of Critical Genes and Signaling Pathways in Human Monocytes Following High-Intensity Exercise. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9060618. [PMID: 34067297 PMCID: PMC8224747 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9060618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monocytes are critical components, not only for innate immunity, but also for the activation of the adaptive immune system. Many studies in animals and humans have demonstrated that monocytes may be closely associated with chronic inflammatory diseases and be proved to be pivotal in the association between high-intensity exercise and anti-inflammation response. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms driving this are barely understood. The present study aimed to screen for potential hub genes and candidate signaling pathways associated with the effects of high-intensity exercise on human monocytes through bioinformatics analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The GSE51835 gene expression dataset was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The dataset consists of 12 monocyte samples from two groups of pre-exercise and post-exercise individuals. Identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with R software, and functional annotation and pathway analyses were then performed with related web databases. Subsequently, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network which discovers key functional protein and a transcription factors-DEGs network which predicts upstream regulators were constructed. RESULTS A total of 146 differentially expressed genes were identified, including 95 upregulated and 51 downregulated genes. Gene Ontology analysis indicated that in the biological process functional group, these DEGs were mainly involved in cellular response to hydrogen peroxide, response to unfolded protein, negative regulation of cell proliferation, cellular response to laminar fluid shear stress, and positive regulation of protein metabolic process. The top five enrichment pathways in a Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were the FoxO signaling pathway, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, influenza A, the ErbB signaling pathway, and the MAPK signaling pathway. TNF, DUSP1, ATF3, CXCR4, NR4A1, BHLHE40, CDKN1B, SOCS3, TNFAIP3, and MCL1 were the top 10 potential hub genes. The most important modules obtained in the PPI network were performed KEGG pathway analysis, which showed that these genes were mainly involved in the MAPK signaling pathway, the IL-17 signaling pathway, the TNF signaling pathway, osteoclast differentiation, and apoptosis. A transcription factor (TF) target network illustrated that FOXJ2 was a critical regulatory factor. CONCLUSIONS This study identified the essential genes and pathways associated with exercise and monocytes. Among these, four essential genes (TNF, DUSP1, CXCR4, and NR4A1) and the FoxO signaling pathway play vital roles in the immune function of monocytes. High-intensity exercise may improve the resistance of chronic inflammatory diseases by regulating the expression of these genes.
Collapse
|
20
|
Cheng Y, Borcherding N, Ogunsakin A, Lemke-Miltner CD, Gibson-Corley KN, Rajan A, Choi AB, Wongpattaraworakul W, Chan CHF, Salem AK, Weiner GJ, Simons AL. The anti-tumor effects of cetuximab in combination with VTX-2337 are T cell dependent. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1535. [PMID: 33452311 PMCID: PMC7810827 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80957-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) agonist VTX-2337 (motolimod) is an anti-cancer immunotherapeutic agent that is believed to augment natural killer (NK) and dendritic cell (DC) activity. The goal of this work is to examine the role of TLR8 expression/activity in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) to facilitate the prediction of responders to VTX-2337-based therapy. The prognostic role of TLR8 expression in HNSCC patients was assessed by TCGA and tissue microarray analyses. The anti-tumor effect of VTX-2337 was determined in SCCVII/C3H, mEERL/C57Bl/6 and TUBO-human EGFR/BALB/c syngeneic mouse models. The effect of combined VTX-2337 and cetuximab treatment on tumor growth, survival and immune cell recruitment was assessed. TLR8 expression was associated with CD8+ T cell infiltration and favorable survival outcomes. VTX-2337 delayed tumor growth in all 3 syngeneic mouse models and significantly increased the survival of cetuximab-treated mice. The anti-tumor effects of VTX-2337+ cetuximab were accompanied by increased splenic lymphoid DCs and IFNγ+ CD4+ and tumor-specific CD8+ T cells. Depletion of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and NK cells were all able to abolish the anti-tumor effect of VTX-2337+ cetuximab. Altogether, VTX-2337 remains promising as an adjuvant for cetuximab-based therapy however patients with high TLR8 expression may be more likely to derive benefit from this drug combination compared to patients with low TLR8 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinwen Cheng
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nicholas Borcherding
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Iowa Medical Scientist Training Program, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Ayomide Ogunsakin
- Department of Biochemistry, Lincoln University, Lincoln University, PA, USA
| | - Caitlin D Lemke-Miltner
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Katherine N Gibson-Corley
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Anand Rajan
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Allen B Choi
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Wattawan Wongpattaraworakul
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Carlos H F Chan
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Aliasger K Salem
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Division of Pharmaceutics and Translational Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - George J Weiner
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Andrean L Simons
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA. .,Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA. .,Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA. .,Department of Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dudek KA, Dion‐Albert L, Kaufmann FN, Tuck E, Lebel M, Menard C. Neurobiology of resilience in depression: immune and vascular insights from human and animal studies. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 53:183-221. [PMID: 31421056 PMCID: PMC7891571 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic and recurrent psychiatric condition characterized by depressed mood, social isolation and anhedonia. It will affect 20% of individuals with considerable economic impacts. Unfortunately, 30-50% of depressed individuals are resistant to current antidepressant treatments. MDD is twice as prevalent in women and associated symptoms are different. Depression's main environmental risk factor is chronic stress, and women report higher levels of stress in daily life. However, not every stressed individual becomes depressed, highlighting the need to identify biological determinants of stress vulnerability but also resilience. Based on a reverse translational approach, rodent models of depression were developed to study the mechanisms underlying susceptibility vs resilience. Indeed, a subpopulation of animals can display coping mechanisms and a set of biological alterations leading to stress resilience. The aetiology of MDD is multifactorial and involves several physiological systems. Exacerbation of endocrine and immune responses from both innate and adaptive systems are observed in depressed individuals and mice exhibiting depression-like behaviours. Increasing attention has been given to neurovascular health since higher prevalence of cardiovascular diseases is found in MDD patients and inflammatory conditions are associated with depression, treatment resistance and relapse. Here, we provide an overview of endocrine, immune and vascular changes associated with stress vulnerability vs. resilience in rodents and when available, in humans. Lack of treatment efficacy suggests that neuron-centric treatments do not address important causal biological factors and better understanding of stress-induced adaptations, including sex differences, could contribute to develop novel therapeutic strategies including personalized medicine approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna A. Dudek
- Department of Psychiatry and NeuroscienceFaculty of Medicine and CERVO Brain Research CenterUniversité LavalQuebec CityQCCanada
| | - Laurence Dion‐Albert
- Department of Psychiatry and NeuroscienceFaculty of Medicine and CERVO Brain Research CenterUniversité LavalQuebec CityQCCanada
| | - Fernanda Neutzling Kaufmann
- Department of Psychiatry and NeuroscienceFaculty of Medicine and CERVO Brain Research CenterUniversité LavalQuebec CityQCCanada
| | - Ellen Tuck
- Smurfit Institute of GeneticsTrinity CollegeDublinIreland
| | - Manon Lebel
- Department of Psychiatry and NeuroscienceFaculty of Medicine and CERVO Brain Research CenterUniversité LavalQuebec CityQCCanada
| | - Caroline Menard
- Department of Psychiatry and NeuroscienceFaculty of Medicine and CERVO Brain Research CenterUniversité LavalQuebec CityQCCanada
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ren Q, Cheng L, Yi J, Ma L, Pan J, Gou SJ, Fu P. Toll-like Receptors as Potential Therapeutic Targets in Kidney Diseases. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:5829-5854. [PMID: 31161985 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666190603110907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Toll-like Receptors (TLRs) are members of pattern recognition receptors and serve a pivotal role in host immunity. TLRs response to pathogen-associated molecular patterns encoded by pathogens or damage-associated molecular patterns released by dying cells, initiating an inflammatory cascade, where both beneficial and detrimental effects can be exerted. Accumulated evidence has revealed that TLRs are closely associated with various kidney diseases but their roles are still not well understood. This review updated evidence on the roles of TLRs in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases including urinary tract infection, glomerulonephritis, acute kidney injury, transplant allograft dysfunction and chronic kidney diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Ren
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lu Cheng
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Yi
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Pan
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shen-Ju Gou
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ping Fu
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Murray LM, Yerkovich ST, Ferreira MA, Upham JW. Risks for cold frequency vary by sex: role of asthma, age, TLR7 and leukocyte subsets. Eur Respir J 2020; 56:13993003.02453-2019. [PMID: 32513781 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.02453-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Viral respiratory infections are usually benign but can trigger asthma exacerbations. The factors associated with upper respiratory tract infection (cold) frequency are not fully understood, nor is it clear whether such factors differ between women and men.To determine which immunological and clinical variables associate with the frequency of self-reported respiratory infections (colds), 150 asthma cases and 151 controls were recruited. Associations between antiviral immune response variables: toll-like receptor (TLR)7/8 gene expression, plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC) numbers and interferon-α, tumour necrosis factor and interleukin-12 production, and asthma were then examined that might explain cold frequency.People with asthma cases reported more colds per year (median 3 versus 2; p<0.001) and had lower baseline TLR7 gene expression (odds ratio 0.12; p=0.02) than controls. Associations between many variables and cold frequency differed between women and men. In women, high blood neutrophil counts (β=0.096, p=0.002), and younger age (β=-0.017, p<0.001), but not exposure to children, were independently associated with more frequent colds. In men, low TLR7 expression (β=-0.96, p=0.041) and high CLEC4C gene expression (a marker of pDC; β=0.88, p=0.008) were independently associated with more frequent colds. Poor asthma symptom control was independently associated with reduced TLR8 gene expression (β=-1.4, p=0.036) and high body mass index (β=0.041, p=0.004).Asthma, age and markers of inflammation and antiviral immunity in peripheral blood are associated with frequent colds. Interestingly, the variables associated with cold frequency differed between women and men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liisa M Murray
- Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | | | - John W Upham
- Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cutolo M, Straub RH. Sex steroids and autoimmune rheumatic diseases: state of the art. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:628-644. [PMID: 33009519 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-0503-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In autoimmune rheumatic diseases, oestrogens can stimulate certain immune responses (including effects on B cells and innate immunity), but can also have dose-related anti-inflammatory effects on T cells, macrophages and other immune cells. By contrast, androgens and progesterone have predominantly immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects. Hormone replacement therapies and oral contraception (and also pregnancy) enhance or decrease the severity of autoimmune rheumatic diseases at a genetic or epigenetic level. Serum androgen concentrations are often low in men and in women with autoimmune rheumatic diseases, suggesting that androgen-like compounds might be a promising therapeutic approach. However, androgen-to-oestrogen conversion (known as intracrinology) is enhanced in inflamed tissues, such as those present in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. In addition, it is becoming evident that the gut microbiota differs between the sexes (known as the microgenderome) and leads to sex-dependent genetic and epigenetic changes in gastrointestinal inflammation, systemic immunity and, potentially, susceptibility to autoimmune or inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Future clinical research needs to focus on the therapeutic use of androgens and progestins or their downstream signalling cascades and on new oestrogenic compounds such as tissue-selective oestrogen complex to modulate altered immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratories and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Postgraduate School of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine DIMI, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Rainer H Straub
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Neuroendocrine Immunology, Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Justina VD, Giachini FR, Sullivan JC, Webb RC. Toll-Like Receptors Contribute to Sex Differences in Blood Pressure Regulation. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2020; 76:255-266. [PMID: 32902942 PMCID: PMC7751064 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in the innate immune system, and recently, they have been shown to be involved in the regulation of blood pressure. The incidence of hypertension is higher in men, and it increases in postmenopausal women. In fact, premenopausal women are protected from cardiovascular disease compared with age-matched men, and it is well established that this protective effect is lost with menopause. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this protection in women are unknown. Whether or not it could be related to differential activation of the innate immune system remains to be elucidated. This review focuses on (1) the differences between men and women in TLR activation and (2) whether TLR activation may influence the regulation of blood pressure in a sex-dependent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Dela Justina
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Fernanda R. Giachini
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
- Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Universidad Federal De Mato Grosso, Barra Do Garcas, Brazil
| | - Jennifer C. Sullivan
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - R. Clinton Webb
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Johnson BM, Gaudreau MC, Gudi R, Brown R, Gilkeson G, Vasu C. Gut microbiota differently contributes to intestinal immune phenotype and systemic autoimmune progression in female and male lupus-prone mice. J Autoimmun 2020; 108:102420. [PMID: 32019684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2020.102420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is about 9 times higher in women as compared to men. Our recent report, which used (SWRxNZB) F1 (SNF1) mouse model of spontaneous lupus, showed a potential link between immune response initiated in the gut mucosa at juvenile age (sex hormone independent) and SLE susceptibility. Here, using this mouse model, we show that gut microbiota contributes differently to pro-inflammatory immune response in the intestine and autoimmune progression in lupus-prone males and females. We found that gut microbiota composition in male and female littermates are significantly different only at adult ages. However, depletion of gut microbes causes suppression of autoimmune progression only in females. In agreement, microbiota depletion suppressed the pro-inflammatory cytokine response of gut mucosa in juvenile and adult females. Nevertheless, microbiota from females and males showed, upon cross-transfer, contrasting abilities to modulate disease progression. Furthermore, orchidectomy (castration) not only caused changes in the composition of gut microbiota, but also a modest acceleration of autoimmune progression. Overall, our work shows that microbiota-dependent pro-inflammatory immune response in the gut mucosa of females initiated at juvenile ages and androgen-dependent protection of males contribute to gender differences in the intestinal immune phenotype and systemic autoimmune progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M Johnson
- Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Marie-Claude Gaudreau
- Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Radhika Gudi
- Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Robert Brown
- Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Gary Gilkeson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Chenthamarakshan Vasu
- Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Nusbaum JS, Mirza I, Shum J, Freilich RW, Cohen RE, Pillinger MH, Izmirly PM, Buyon JP. Sex Differences in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Epidemiology, Clinical Considerations, and Disease Pathogenesis. Mayo Clin Proc 2020; 95:384-394. [PMID: 32029091 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2019.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, multiorgan, systemic autoimmune disease that is more common in women than men and is typically diagnosed during reproductive age, necessitating sex-specific considerations in care. In women there is no substantive evidence to suggest that SLE reduces fertility, but subfertility may occur as a result of active disease, immunosuppressive drugs, and age-related declines in fertility related to delays in childbearing. Although pregnancy outcomes have improved, SLE still poses risks in pregnancy that contribute to poorer maternal and fetal outcomes. Cyclophosphamide, an important agent for the treatment of severe or life-threatening lupus, may adversely affect fertility, particularly with increases in dose and patient age. Fertility preservation techniques are therefore an important consideration for women and men before cytotoxic treatment. There is mixed evidence as to whether exogenous estrogen in the form of oral contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy may increase the risk for the development of SLE, but among women with SLE already diagnosed, combined oral contraceptive pills and hormone replacement therapy do not confer risk for severe flare and remain important in reproductive care. The higher incidence of SLE in women may nonetheless be attributable to effects of endogenous estrogen, as well as failures in X chromosome inactivation, increased Toll-like receptor gene products, and changes in microRNA function. A greater appreciation of the biological underpinnings and consequences of sex differences in SLE may lead to more targeted treatments and improved outcomes for patients with SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie S Nusbaum
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York.
| | - Ibraheem Mirza
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York
| | - Justine Shum
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York
| | - Robert W Freilich
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York
| | - Rebecca E Cohen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York
| | - Michael H Pillinger
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York
| | - Peter M Izmirly
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York
| | - Jill P Buyon
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Czaja AJ. Examining pathogenic concepts of autoimmune hepatitis for cues to future investigations and interventions. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:6579-6606. [PMID: 31832000 PMCID: PMC6906207 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i45.6579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple pathogenic mechanisms have been implicated in autoimmune hepatitis, but they have not fully explained susceptibility, triggering events, and maintenance or escalation of the disease. Furthermore, they have not identified a critical defect that can be targeted. The goals of this review are to examine the diverse pathogenic mechanisms that have been considered in autoimmune hepatitis, indicate investigational opportunities to validate their contribution, and suggest interventions that might evolve to modify their impact. English abstracts were identified in PubMed by multiple search terms. Full length articles were selected for review, and secondary and tertiary bibliographies were developed. Genetic and epigenetic factors can affect susceptibility by influencing the expression of immune regulatory genes. Thymic dysfunction, possibly related to deficient production of programmed cell death protein-1, can allow autoreactive T cells to escape deletion, and alterations in the intestinal microbiome may help overcome immune tolerance and affect gender bias. Environmental factors may trigger the disease or induce epigenetic changes in gene function. Molecular mimicry, epitope spread, bystander activation, neo-antigen production, lymphocytic polyspecificity, and disturbances in immune inhibitory mechanisms may maintain or escalate the disease. Interventions that modify epigenetic effects on gene expression, alter intestinal dysbiosis, eliminate deleterious environmental factors, and target critical pathogenic mechanisms are therapeutic possibilities that might reduce risk, individualize management, and improve outcome. In conclusion, diverse pathogenic mechanisms have been implicated in autoimmune hepatitis, and they may identify a critical factor or sequence that can be validated and used to direct future management and preventive strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albert J Czaja
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Patel AA, Yona S. Inherited and Environmental Factors Influence Human Monocyte Heterogeneity. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2581. [PMID: 31787976 PMCID: PMC6854020 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood monocytes develop in the bone marrow before being released into the peripheral circulation. The circulating monocyte pool is composed of multiple subsets, each with specialized functions. These cells are recruited to repopulate resident monocyte-derived cells in the periphery and also to sites of injury. Several extrinsic factors influence the function and quantity of monocytes in the blood. Here, we outline the impact of sex, ethnicity, age, sleep, diet, and exercise on monocyte subsets and their function, highlighting that steady state is not a single physiological condition. A clearer understanding of the relationship between these factors and the immune system may allow for improved therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amit A. Patel
- Division of Medicine, University College London, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Yona
- The Institute of Dental Sciences, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Zachary C, Fackler N, Juhasz M, Pham C, Mesinkovska NA. Catamenial dermatoses associated with autoimmune, inflammatory, and systemic diseases: A systematic review ,. Int J Womens Dermatol 2019; 5:361-367. [PMID: 31909158 PMCID: PMC6938828 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sex hormones are important in female sexual physiology, growth, and homeostasis. Through skin receptors, sex hormones contribute to the dermatologic pathology known as catamenial dermatoses. Objective This study aims to summarize the literature on catamenial dermatoses and menses-induced exacerbations of chronic dermatoses. Methods This systematic review used the PRISMA method. PubMed was searched using the terms “menses” and “skin” in July 2018, and an assessment was conducted of the relevant literature on skin diseases related to non-pathologic menstruation, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. Pathology associated with androgenetic acne was excluded from the study. Results A total of 102 studies with 1269 female patients were included. The most commonly reported primary catamenial dermatoses were autoimmune progesterone dermatitis and autoimmune estrogen dermatitis. The most commonly reported chronic skin disorders exacerbated by menses were psoriasis, Behcet’s disease, and eczematous dermatoses. Conclusion Physicians should be aware of the nature of catamenial dermatoses and their presentation with normal sexual physiology. Patients with chronic dermatoses should be appropriately counseled on menstruation-related exacerbations. Further research needs to be conducted to determine the interplay between immune regulation and sex hormones in catamenial dermatoses and to elucidate effective therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Zachary
- Georgetown University, School of Medicine, Washington, D.C., United States.,University of California, Irvine, Department of Dermatology, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Nathan Fackler
- Georgetown University, School of Medicine, Washington, D.C., United States.,University of California, Irvine, Department of Dermatology, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Margit Juhasz
- University of California, Irvine, Department of Dermatology, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Christine Pham
- University of California, Irvine, Department of Dermatology, Irvine, CA, United States.,University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lambert NC. Nonendocrine mechanisms of sex bias in rheumatic diseases. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2019; 15:673-686. [PMID: 31597952 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-019-0307-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatic diseases affect a wide range of individuals of all ages, but the most common diseases occur more frequently in women than in men, at ratios of up to ten women to one man. Despite a growing number of studies on sex bias in rheumatic diseases, sex-specific health care is limited and sex specificity is not systematically integrated into treatment regimens. Women and men differ in three major biological points: the number of X chromosomes per cell, the type and quantities of sex hormones present and the ability to be pregnant, all of which have immunological consequences. Could a greater understanding of these differences lead to a new era of personalized sex-specific medicine? This Review focuses on the main genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that have been put forward to explain sex bias in rheumatic diseases, including X chromosome inactivation, sex chromosome aneuploidy and microchimerism. The influence of sex hormones is not discussed in detail in this Review, as it has been well described elsewhere. Understanding the sex-specific factors that contribute to the initiation and progression of rheumatic diseases will enable progress to be made in the diagnosis, treatment and management of all patients with these conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie C Lambert
- INSERM UMRs 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Dey-Rao R, Sinha AA. In silico Analyses of Skin and Peripheral Blood Transcriptional Data in Cutaneous Lupus Reveals CCR2-A Novel Potential Therapeutic Target. Front Immunol 2019; 10:640. [PMID: 30984198 PMCID: PMC6450170 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous lesions feature prominently in lupus erythematosus (LE). Yet lupus and its cutaneous manifestations exhibit extraordinary clinical heterogeneity, making it imperative to stratify patients with varying organ involvement based on molecular criteria that may be of clinical value. We conducted several in silico bioinformatics-based analyses integrating chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE)-skin and blood expression profiles to provide novel insights into disease mechanisms and potential future therapy. In addition to substantiating well-known prominent apoptosis and interferon related response in both tissue environments, the overrepresentation of GO categories in the datasets, in the context of existing literature, led us to model a “disease road-map” demonstrating a coordinated orchestration of the autoimmune response in CCLE reflected in three phases: (1) initiation, (2) amplification, and (3) target damage in skin. Within this framework, we undertook in silico interactome analyses to identify significantly “over-connected” genes that are potential key functional players in the metabolic reprogramming associated with skin pathology in CCLE. Furthermore, overlapping and distinct transcriptional “hot spots” within CCLE skin and blood expression profiles mapping to specified chromosomal locations offer selected targets for identifying disease-risk genes. Lastly, we used a novel in silico approach to prioritize the receptor protein CCR2, whose expression level in CCLE tissues was validated by qPCR analysis, and suggest it as a drug target for use in future potential CCLE therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rama Dey-Rao
- Department of Dermatology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Animesh A Sinha
- Department of Dermatology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Voigt EA, Ovsyannikova IG, Kennedy RB, Grill DE, Goergen KM, Schaid DJ, Poland GA. Sex Differences in Older Adults' Immune Responses to Seasonal Influenza Vaccination. Front Immunol 2019; 10:180. [PMID: 30873150 PMCID: PMC6400991 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Sex differences in immune responses to influenza vaccine may impact efficacy across populations. Methods: In a cohort of 138 older adults (50-74 years old), we measured influenza A/H1N1 antibody titers, B-cell ELISPOT response, PBMC transcriptomics, and PBMC cell compositions at 0, 3, and 28 days post-immunization with the 2010/11 seasonal inactivated influenza vaccine. Results: We identified higher B-cell ELISPOT responses in females than males. Potential mechanisms for sex effects were identified in four gene clusters related to T, NK, and B cells. Mediation analysis indicated that sex-dependent expression in T and NK cell genes can be partially attributed to higher CD4+ T cell and lower NK cell fractions in females. We identified strong sex effects in 135 B cell genes whose expression correlates with ELISPOT measures, and found that cell subset differences did not explain the effect of sex on these genes' expression. Post-vaccination expression of these genes, however, mediated 41% of the sex effect on ELISPOT responses. Conclusions: These results improve our understanding of sexual dimorphism in immunity and influenza vaccine response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily A. Voigt
- Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | | | - Richard B. Kennedy
- Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Diane E. Grill
- Division of Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Krista M. Goergen
- Division of Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Daniel J. Schaid
- Division of Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Gregory A. Poland
- Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Bruno KA, Mathews JE, Yang AL, Frisancho JA, Scott AJ, Greyner HD, Molina FA, Greenaway MS, Cooper GM, Bucek A, Morales-Lara AC, Hill AR, Mease AA, Di Florio DN, Sousou JM, Coronado AC, Stafford AR, Fairweather D. BPA Alters Estrogen Receptor Expression in the Heart After Viral Infection Activating Cardiac Mast Cells and T Cells Leading to Perimyocarditis and Fibrosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:598. [PMID: 31551929 PMCID: PMC6737078 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocarditis is an inflammatory heart disease that leads to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and heart failure. Sex hormones play an important role in the development of myocarditis with testosterone driving disease in males and estrogen being cardioprotective in females. The human population is widely exposed to the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) from plastics such as water bottles, plastic food containers, copy paper, and receipts. Several clinical and numerous animal studies have found an association between elevated BPA levels and cardiovascular disease. A recent report found elevated levels of BPA in the serum of patients with DCM compared to healthy controls. In this study we examined whether exposure to BPA for 2 weeks prior to viral infection and leading up to myocarditis at day 10 altered inflammation in female BALB/c mice housed in standard plastic cages/water bottles with soy-free food and bedding. We found that a human relevant dose of BPA (25 μg/L) in drinking water, with an estimated exposure of 5 μg BPA/kg BW, significantly increased myocarditis and pericarditis compared to control water without altering viral genome levels in the heart. BPA exposure activated ERα and ERβ in the spleen 24 h after infection and phosphorylated ERα and ERβ during myocarditis, but decreased ERα and increased ERβ mRNA in the heart as measured by qRT-PCR. Exposure to BPA significantly increased CD4+ T cells, IFNγ, IL-17A, TLR4, caspase-1, and IL-1β in the heart. BPA exposure also increased cardiac fibrosis compared to controls. Mast cells, which are associated with cardiac remodeling, were found to increase in number and degranulation, particularly along the pericardium. Interestingly, plastic caging/water bottle exposure alone led to increased mast cell numbers, pericardial degranulation and fibrosis in female BALB/c mice compared to animals housed in glass cages/water bottles with soy-free food and bedding. These data suggest that BPA exposure may increase the risk of developing myocarditis after a viral infection in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn Ann Bruno
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Alex Lingyun Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - J. Augusto Frisancho
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ashley Jennie Scott
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Henry David Greyner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Frank Anthony Molina
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Merci Shekinah Greenaway
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - George Maxwell Cooper
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Adriana Bucek
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Anneliese Ruth Hill
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Anna Alisa Mease
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Damian Nicolas Di Florio
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - John Michael Sousou
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | | | - Allison Ray Stafford
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - DeLisa Fairweather
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: DeLisa Fairweather
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Rainville JR, Hodes GE. Inflaming sex differences in mood disorders. Neuropsychopharmacology 2019; 44:184-199. [PMID: 29955150 PMCID: PMC6235877 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-018-0124-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Men and women often experience different symptoms or rates of occurrence for a variety of mood disorders. Many of the symptoms of mood disorders overlap with autoimmune disorders, which also have a higher prevalence in women. There is a growing interest in exploring the immune system to provide biomarkers for diagnosis of mood disorders, along with new targets for developing treatments. This review examines known sex differences in the immune system and their relationship to mood disorders. We focus on immune alterations associated with unipolar depression, bipolar depression, and anxiety disorders. We describe work from both basic and clinical research examining potential immune mechanisms thought to contribute to stress susceptibility and associated mood disorders. We propose that sex and age are important, intertwined factors that need to be included in future experimental designs if we are going to harness the power of the immune system to develop a new wave of treatments for mood disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Rainville
- Department of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1981 Kraft Drive, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Georgia E Hodes
- Department of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1981 Kraft Drive, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Pan F, Tang W, Zhou Z, Gilkeson G, Lang R, Jiang W. Intestinal macrophages in mucosal immunity and their role in systemic lupus erythematosus disease. Lupus 2018; 27:1898-1902. [PMID: 30223707 DOI: 10.1177/0961203318797417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Monocytes play an important role in inducing host systemic immunity against invading pathogens and inflammatory responses. After activation, monocytes migrate to tissue sites, where they initiate both innate and adaptive immune responses, and become macrophages. Although mucosal macrophages produce inflammatory cytokines in response to pathogens, the perturbations in innate immune signaling pathway have been implicated in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this review, we focus on the role of human macrophages in intestinal innate immune responses, homeostasis, and SLE disease. We further discuss sex differences in the intestinal macrophages and their role in the physiology and pathogenesis of SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Pan
- 1 Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - W Tang
- 2 The First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Nangang, Harbin, China
| | - Z Zhou
- 3 State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Human Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - G Gilkeson
- 4 Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - R Lang
- 1 Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - W Jiang
- 5 Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.,6 Divison of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Taneja V. Sex Hormones Determine Immune Response. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1931. [PMID: 30210492 PMCID: PMC6119719 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 313] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Veena Taneja
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is based on the loss of self-tolerance against ubiquitous autoantigens involving all mechanisms of adaptive immunity. However, data accumulating over the last decade imply an important role also for numerous elements of innate immunity, namely the Toll-like receptors in the pathogenesis of SLE. Here we discuss their role in the most common organ complication of SLE, i.e. lupus nephritis. We summarize experimental and clinical data on the expression and functional contribution of the Toll-like receptors in immune complex glomerulonephritis, and intrarenal inflammation. Based on these discoveries Toll-like receptors are evolving as therapeutic targets for the treatment of SLE and lupus nephritis.
Collapse
|
39
|
Oxyresveratrol Is a Phytoestrogen Exerting Anti-inflammatory Effects Through NF-κB and Estrogen Receptor Signaling. Inflammation 2018; 40:1285-1296. [PMID: 28484893 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-017-0572-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest an anti-inflammatory activity of oxyresveratrol, a stilbene extracted from Cortex mori root used in traditional Chinese medicine that also presents estrogen-like activity. We herein tested the hypothesis that oxyreservatrol exerts an anti-inflammatory effect through its estrogenic-like function. In MCF-7 cells, oxyresveratrol significantly induced proliferation, which was accompanied with estrogen receptor (ER)-mediated transcriptional activation, increased estrogen-targeted gene expression (e.g., pS2, PGR, and CTSD), and increased ERα/β proteins. The estrogen-like effect of oxyresveratrol was reversed by the ER inhibitor ICI 182780. Strong ER-binding activities of oxyresveratrol were revealed by negative docking scores. The LPS-induced inflammatory response (e.g., upregulated IκB-α phosphorylation, NF-κB nuclear translocation, and cytokine messenger RNA expression) was significantly suppressed in an ER-dependent manner by oxyresveratrol in RAW264.7 cells. These results suggest that oxyresveratrol may function as an ER agonist and modulate NF-κB signaling.
Collapse
|
40
|
Koenig A, Buskiewicz I, Huber SA. Age-Associated Changes in Estrogen Receptor Ratios Correlate with Increased Female Susceptibility to Coxsackievirus B3-Induced Myocarditis. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1585. [PMID: 29201031 PMCID: PMC5696718 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual bias is a hallmark in various diseases. This review evaluates sexual dimorphism in clinical and experimental coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) myocarditis, and how sex bias in the experimental disease changes with increased age. Coxsackieviruses are major causes of viral myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, which is more frequent and severe in men than women. Young male mice infected with CVB3 develop heart-specific autoimmunity and severe myocarditis. Females infected during estrus (high estradiol) develop T-regulatory cells and when infected during diestrus (low estradiol) develop autoimmunity similar to males. During estrus, protection depends on estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), which promotes type I interferon, activation of natural killer/natural killer T cells and suppressor cell responses. Estrogen receptor beta has opposing effects to ERα and supports pro-inflammatory immunity. However, the sexual dimorphism of the disease is significantly ameliorated in aged animals when old females become as susceptible as males. This correlates to a selective loss of the ERα that is required for immunosuppression. Therefore, sex-associated hormones control susceptibility in the virus-mediated disease, but their impact can alter with the age and physiological stage of the individual.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Koenig
- Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Iwona Buskiewicz
- Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Sally A Huber
- Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Global Disparities and Their Implications in the Occurrence and Outcome of Autoimmune Hepatitis. Dig Dis Sci 2017; 62:2277-2292. [PMID: 28710658 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-017-4675-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis has a variable occurrence, clinical phenotype, and outcome, and the factors contributing to this variability are uncertain. The goals of this review are to examine the global disparities in the occurrence and outcome of autoimmune hepatitis, suggest bases for these disparities, and encourage investigations that extend beyond single-center experiences. Disparities in the incidence and prevalence of autoimmune hepatitis in different age groups, genders, ethnicities, and geographical regions suggest that factors other than genetic predisposition are involved. Age- and gender-related antigen exposures from the external (infections, toxins, and medications) and internal (intestinal microbiome) environment may affect the incidence of the disease, and the timeliness and nature of treatment may influence its prevalence. The increasing incidence of autoimmune hepatitis in Spain, Denmark, and the Netherlands suggests that a new etiological trigger has been introduced or that the susceptible population has changed. Variations in mortality between Western and Asian-Pacific countries may result from differences in disease detection or management, and variations in gender predilection, peak age of onset, frequency of concurrent immune diseases, and serological profile may reflect gender-biased and age-related antigen exposures and genetic predispositions. Global collaborations, population-based epidemiological studies that identify case clustering, and controlled interview-based surveys are mechanisms by which to understand these disparities and improve management. In conclusion, autoimmune hepatitis has a rising incidence in some countries and variable occurrence, phenotype, and outcome between countries and subgroups within countries. These disparities suggest that unrecognized population-based environmental, infectious, or socioeconomic factors are affecting its character.
Collapse
|
42
|
Cattalini M, Soliani M, Caparello MC, Cimaz R. Sex Differences in Pediatric Rheumatology. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2017; 56:293-307. [DOI: 10.1007/s12016-017-8642-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
43
|
Sharma J, Hampton JM, Valiente GR, Wada T, Steigelman H, Young MC, Spurbeck RR, Blazek AD, Bösh S, Jarjour WN, Young NA. Therapeutic Development of Mesenchymal Stem Cells or Their Extracellular Vesicles to Inhibit Autoimmune-Mediated Inflammatory Processes in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Front Immunol 2017; 8:526. [PMID: 28539924 PMCID: PMC5423896 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Since being discovered over half a century ago, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been investigated extensively to characterize their cellular and physiological influences. MSCs have been shown to possess immunosuppressive capacity through inhibiting lymphocyte activation/proliferation and proinflammatory cytokine secretion while simultaneously demonstrating limited allogenic reactivity, which subsequently led to the evaluation of therapeutic feasibility to treat inflammatory diseases. Although regulatory constraints have restricted MSC development pharmacologically, limited clinical studies have shown encouraging results using MSC infusions to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); but, more trials will have to be performed to conclusively determine the clinical efficacy of MSCs to treat SLE. Moreover, there are some data to suggest that MSCs possess tumorigenic potential and that the immunosuppressive influence can be dramatically affected by both donor variability and ex vivo expansion. Given that recent studies have found that the immunosuppressive effects of MSCs are a result, at least in part, to extracellular vesicle (EV) secretion, the use of MSC-derived EVs has been suggested as a cell-free therapeutic alternative. Despite the positive data observed using EVs isolated from human MSCs to suppress inflammatory responses in vitro and in inhibiting autoimmune disease pathogenesis in preclinical work, there are no studies to date examining EVs from MSCs to treat SLE in humans or animal models. Considering that EVs are not subject to the strict regulatory constraints of stem cell-based pharmacological development and are more readily standardized with regard to industrial-scale production and storage, this review outlines the anti-inflammatory biology of MSCs and the scientific evidence supporting the potential use of EVs derived from human MSCs to treat patients with SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juhi Sharma
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Hampton
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Giancarlo R Valiente
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Takuma Wada
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Holly Steigelman
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | | | | | - Steffi Bösh
- Université de Nantes, Immuno-endocrinologie Cellulaire et Moléculaire, Nantes, France
| | - Wael N Jarjour
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nicholas A Young
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Laffont S, Seillet C, Guéry JC. Estrogen Receptor-Dependent Regulation of Dendritic Cell Development and Function. Front Immunol 2017; 8:108. [PMID: 28239379 PMCID: PMC5300975 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmunity, infectious diseases and cancer affect women and men differently. Because they tend to develop more vigorous adaptive immune responses than men, women are less susceptible to some infectious diseases but also at higher risk of autoimmunity. The regulation of immune responses by sex-dependent factors probably involves several non-redundant mechanisms. A privileged area of study, however, concerns the role of sex steroid hormones in the biology of innate immune cells, especially dendritic cells (DCs). In recent years, our understanding of the lineage origin of DC populations has expanded, and the lineage-committing transcription factors shaping peripheral DC subsets have been identified. Both progenitor cells and mature DC subsets express estrogen receptors (ERs), which are ligand-dependent transcription factors. This suggests that estrogens may contribute to the reported sex differences in immunity by regulating DC biology. Here, we review the recent literature and highlight evidence that estrogen-dependent activation of ERα regulates the development or the functional responses of particular DC subsets. The in vitro model of GM-CSF-induced DC differentiation shows that CD11c+ CD11bint Ly6cneg cells depend on ERα activation by estrogen for their development, and for the acquisition of competence to activate naive CD4+ T lymphocytes and mount a robust pro-inflammatory cytokine response to CD40 stimulation. In this model, estrogen signaling in conjunction with GM-CSF is necessary to promote early interferon regulatory factor (Irf)-4 expression in macrophage-DC progenitors and their subsequent differentiation into IRF-4hi CD11c+ CD11bint Ly6cneg cells, closely related to the cDC2 subset. The Flt3L-induced model of DC differentiation in turn shows that ERα signaling promotes the development of conventional DC (cDC) and plasmacytoid DC (pDC) with higher capability of pro-inflammatory cytokine production in response to TLR stimulation. Likewise, cell-intrinsic ER signaling positively regulates the TLR-driven production of type I interferons (IFNs) in mouse pDCs in vivo. This effect of estrogens likely contributes to the greater proficiency of women's pDCs than men's as regards the production of type I IFNs elicited by TLR7 ligands. In summary, evidence is emerging in support of the notion that estrogen signaling regulates important aspects of cDC and pDC development and/or effector functions, in both mice and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Laffont
- Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS , Toulouse , France
| | - Cyril Seillet
- Division of Molecular Immunology, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jean-Charles Guéry
- Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UPS , Toulouse , France
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Cho KA, Lee JK, Kim YH, Park M, Woo SY, Ryu KH. Mesenchymal stem cells ameliorate B-cell-mediated immune responses and increase IL-10-expressing regulatory B cells in an EBI3-dependent manner. Cell Mol Immunol 2017; 14:cmi201659. [PMID: 28042143 PMCID: PMC5675953 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2016.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Revised: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Ah Cho
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07985, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Kyu Lee
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07985, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Hee Kim
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07985, Republic of Korea
| | - Minhwa Park
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07985, Republic of Korea
| | - So-Youn Woo
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07985, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Ha Ryu
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07985, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Young NA, Valiente GR, Hampton JM, Wu LC, Burd CJ, Willis WL, Bruss M, Steigelman H, Gotsatsenko M, Amici SA, Severin M, Claverie LM, Guerau-de-Arellano M, Lovett-Racke A, Ardoin S, Jarjour WN. Estrogen-regulated STAT1 activation promotes TLR8 expression to facilitate signaling via microRNA-21 in systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Immunol 2016; 176:12-22. [PMID: 28039018 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies implicate innate immunity to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pathogenesis. Toll-like receptor (TLR)8 is estrogen-regulated and binds viral ssRNA to stimulate innate immune responses, but recent work indicates that microRNA (miR)-21 within extracellular vesicles (EVs) can also trigger this receptor. Our objective was to examine TLR8 expression/activation to better understand sex-biased responses involving TLR8 in SLE. Our data identify an estrogen response element that promotes STAT1 expression and demonstrate STAT1-dependent transcriptional activation of TLR8 with estrogen stimulation. In lieu of viral ssRNA activation, we explored EV-encapsulated miR-21 as an endogenous ligand and observed induction of both TLR8 and cytokine expression in vitro. Moreover, extracellular miR detection was found predominantly within EVs. Thus, just as a cytokine or chemokine, EV-encapsulated miR-21 can act as an inflammatory signaling molecule, or miRokine, by virtue of being an endogenous ligand of TLR8. Collectively, our data elucidates a novel innate inflammatory pathway in SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Young
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Giancarlo R Valiente
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Hampton
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Lai-Chu Wu
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Craig J Burd
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - William L Willis
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Michael Bruss
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Holly Steigelman
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Maya Gotsatsenko
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Stephanie A Amici
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Medical Laboratory Science, and Department of Neuroscience, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mary Severin
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | | | - Mireia Guerau-de-Arellano
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Medical Laboratory Science, and Department of Neuroscience, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Amy Lovett-Racke
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Stacy Ardoin
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Wael N Jarjour
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Mackern-Oberti JP, Jara EL, Riedel CA, Kalergis AM. Hormonal Modulation of Dendritic Cells Differentiation, Maturation and Function: Implications for the Initiation and Progress of Systemic Autoimmunity. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2016; 65:123-136. [PMID: 27585815 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-016-0418-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Hormonal homeostasis is crucial for keeping a competent and healthy immune function. Several hormones can modulate the function of various immune cells such as dendritic cells (DCs) by influencing the initiation of the immune response and the maintenance of peripheral tolerance to self-antigens. Hormones, such as estrogens, prolactin, progesterone and glucocorticoids may profoundly affect DCs differentiation, maturation and function leading to either a pro-inflammatory or an anti-inflammatory (or tolerogenic) phenotype. If not properly regulated, these processes can contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease. An unbalanced hormonal status may affect the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the expression of activating/inhibitory receptors and co-stimulatory molecules on conventional and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs), conferring susceptibility to develop autoimmunity. Estrogen receptor (ER)-α signaling in conventional DCs can promote IFN-α and IL-6 production and induce the expression of CD40, CD86 and MHCII molecules. Furthermore, estrogen modulates the pDCs response to Toll-like receptor ligands enhancing T cell priming. During lupus pathogenesis, ER-α deficiency decreased the expression of MHC II on pDCs from the spleen. In contrast, estradiol administration to lupus-prone female mice increased the expression of co-stimulatory molecules, enhanced the immunogenicity and produced large amounts of IL-6, IL-12 and TNF-α by bone marrow-derived DCs. These data suggest that estradiol/ER signaling may play an active role during lupus pathology. Similarly, understanding hormonal modulation of DCs may favor the design of new therapeutic strategies based on autologous tolerogenic DCs transfer, especially in sex-biased systemic autoimmune diseases. In this review, we discuss recent data relative to the role of different hormones (estrogen, prolactin, progesterone and glucocorticoids) in DC function during systemic autoimmune pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Mackern-Oberti
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina. .,Instituto de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina. .,Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Evelyn L Jara
- Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia A Riedel
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y Facultad de Medicina, Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexis M Kalergis
- Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,Departamento de Endocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,INSERM U1064, Nantes, France.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Duffy L, O'Reilly SC. Toll-like receptors in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases: recent and emerging translational developments. Immunotargets Ther 2016; 5:69-80. [PMID: 27579291 PMCID: PMC5001654 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s89795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoinflammatory diseases are defined as the loss of self-tolerance in which an inflammatory response to self-antigens occurs, which are a significant global burden. Toll-like receptors are key pattern recognition receptors, which integrate signals leading to the activation of transcription factors and ultimately proinflammatory cytokines. Recently, it has become apparent that these are at the nexus of autoinflammatory diseases making them viable and attractive drug targets. The aim of this review was to evaluate the role of innate immunity in autoinflammatory conditions alongside the role of negative regulation while suggesting possible therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Duffy
- Immunology and Cell Biology Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Steven C O'Reilly
- Immunology and Cell Biology Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Lorenz G, Lech M, Anders HJ. Toll-like receptor activation in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis. Clin Immunol 2016; 185:86-94. [PMID: 27423476 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2016.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis is complex but no longer enigmatic. Much progress has been made to on the polygenetic origin of lupus in identifying gene variants that permit the loss of tolerance against nuclear autoantigens. Along the same line in about 50% of lupus patients additional genetic weaknesses promote immune complex glomerulonephritis and filtration barrier dysfunction. Here we briefly summarize the pathogenesis of SLE with a focus on loss of tolerance and the role of toll-like receptors in the "pseudo"-antiviral immunity concept of systemic lupus. In addition, we discuss the local role of Toll-like receptors in intrarenal inflammation and kidney remodeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georg Lorenz
- Abteilung für Nephrologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Maciej Lech
- Nephrologisches Zentrum, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Anders
- Nephrologisches Zentrum, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Why are kids with lupus at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease? Pediatr Nephrol 2016; 31:861-83. [PMID: 26399239 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-015-3202-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an aggressive multisystem autoimmune disease. Despite improvements in outcomes for adult patients, children with SLE continue to have a lower life expectancy than adults with SLE, with more aggressive disease, a higher incidence of lupus nephritis and there is an emerging awareness of their increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this review, we discuss the evidence for an increased risk of CVD in SLE, its pathogenesis, and the clinical approach to its management.
Collapse
|