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Zhao H, Zhao S, Wang S, Liu Y. Human β-defensins: The multi-functional natural peptide. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 227:116451. [PMID: 39059771 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116451] [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: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The increasing threat of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic microorganisms and the urgent demand for new antibiotics require immediate attention. Antimicrobial peptides exhibit effectiveness against microorganisms, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. The discovery of human β-defensins represents a major milestone in biomedical research, opening new avenues for scientific investigation into the innate immune system and its resistance mechanisms against pathogenic microorganisms. Multiple defensins present a promising alternative in the context of antibiotic abuse. However, obstacles to the practical application of defensins as anti-infective therapies persist due to the unique properties of human β-defensins themselves and serious pharmacological and technical challenges. To overcome these challenges, diverse delivery vehicles have been developed and progressively improved for the conjugation or encapsulation of human β-defensins. This review briefly introduces the biology of human β-defensins, focusing on their multistage structure and diverse functions. It also discusses several heterologous systems for producing human β-defensins, various delivery systems created for these peptides, and patent applications related to their utilization, concluding with a summary of current challenges and potential solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haile Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock Jointly Constructed by Ministry and Province, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, 24 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010020, China
| | - Shuli Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock Jointly Constructed by Ministry and Province, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, 24 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010020, China
| | - Simeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock Jointly Constructed by Ministry and Province, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, 24 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010020, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock Jointly Constructed by Ministry and Province, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, 24 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010020, China.
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Khampang P, Samuels TL, Blaine-Sauer S, Lucas J, Yan K, Johnston N, Kerschner JE. 17β-estradiol Attenuates the Middle Ear Inflammatory Response to Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae. Laryngoscope 2024; 134:3815-3819. [PMID: 38401061 DOI: 10.1002/lary.31343] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES 17β-estradiol (E2) is a steroidal hormone with immunomodulatory functions that play a role in infectious and inflammatory diseases. E2 was recently identified as the leading upstream regulator of differentially expressed genes in a comparative RNA sequencing study of pediatric patients with otitis media (OM) versus OM-free counterparts and may therefore play a role in the inflammatory response to bacterial otopathogens during pediatric OM. This study examined the effect of E2 on bacterial-induced inflammatory cytokine expression in an in vitro pediatric OM model. METHODS An immortalized middle ear (ME) epithelial cell line, ROM-SV40, was developed from a pediatric recurrent OM patient. The culture was exposed to E2 at physiological levels for 1-48 h prior to 6 h-stimulation with nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) whole cell lysate. TNFA, IL1B, IL6, and IL8 were assayed by qPCR and ELISA. RESULTS E2 pretreatment (24 h) abrogated NTHi induction of IL6; a longer pretreatment (1-10 nM, 48 h) abrogated IL1B induction (p < 0.05). E2 pretreatment (5 nM, 48 h) abrogated NTHi-induced IL8 secretion (p = 0.017). CONCLUSION E2 pretreatment partially rescued NTHi-induced cytokine production by ME epithelia. These data support a role for E2 in moderating the excessive inflammatory response to middle ear infection that contributes to OM pathophysiology. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE NA Laryngoscope, 134:3815-3819, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawjai Khampang
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
| | - Tina L Samuels
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
| | - Simon Blaine-Sauer
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
| | - Julliette Lucas
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
| | - Ke Yan
- Department of Pediatrics Quantitative Health Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
| | - Nikki Johnston
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
| | - Joseph E Kerschner
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
- Children's Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A
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Das S, Konwar BK. Influence of connatural factors in shaping vaginal microflora and ensuring its health. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:871-886. [PMID: 37676318 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07200-8] [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: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal canal (VC) is exposed to the external environment affected by habitual factors like hygiene and sexual behaviour as well as physiological factors like puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, child birth and menopause. Healthy VC harbours beneficial microflora supported by vaginal epithelium and cervical fluid. Connatural antimicrobial peptide (AMPs) of female reproductive tract (FRT) conjunctly with these beneficial microbes provide protection from a large number of infectious diseases. Such infections may either be caused by native microbes of the VC or transitory microbes like bacteria or virus which are not a part of VC microflora. This review highlight's the role of hormones, enzymes, innate immunological factors, epithelial cells and vaginal mucus that support beneficial microbes over infectious ones thus, helping to maintain homeostasis in VC and further protect the FRT. We also discuss the prospective use of vaginal probiotics and AMPs against pathogens which can serve as a potential cure for vaginal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreaya Das
- Department of MBBT, Tezpur University, Napaam, Assam, 784028, India.
| | - Bolin K Konwar
- Department of MBBT, Tezpur University, Napaam, Assam, 784028, India
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Palacios-Luna JE, López-Marrufo MV, Bautista-Bautista G, Velarde-Guerra CS, Villeda-Gabriel G, Flores-Herrera O, Osorio-Caballero M, Aguilar-Carrasco JC, Palafox-Vargas ML, García-López G, Díaz-Ruíz O, Arechavaleta-Velasco F, Flores-Herrera H. Progesterone modulates extracellular heat-shock proteins and interlukin-1β in human choriodecidual after Escherichia coli infection. Placenta 2023; 142:85-94. [PMID: 37659254 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.08.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chorioamnionitis is an adverse condition in human pregnancy caused by many bacterial pathogens including Escherichia coli (E. coli); which has been associated with higher risk of preterm birth. We recently reported that human maternal decidua (MDec) tissue responds to E. coli infection by secreting extracellular heat-shock proteins (eHsp)-60, -70 and interlukin-1β (IL-1β). Previous studies have shown that progesterone (P4) regulates the immune response, but it is unknown whether P4 inhibits the secretion of eHsp. The aim of this investigation was to determine the role of P4 on the secretion of eHsp-27, -60, -70 and IL-1β in MDec after 3, 6, and 24 h of E. coli infection. METHODS Nine human feto-maternal interface (HFMi) tissues were included and mounted in the Transwell culture system. Only the maternal decidua (MDec) was stimulated for 3, 6 and 24 h with E. coli alone or in combination with progesterone and RU486. After each treatment, the HFMi tissue was recovered to determine histological changes and the culture medium recovered to evaluate the levels of eHsp-27, -60, -70 and IL-1β by ELISA and mRNA expression by RT-PCR. RESULTS No structural changes were observed in the HFMi tissue treated with P4 and RU486. However, stimulation with E. coli produces diffuse inflammation and ischemic necrosis. E. coli induced infection decreases, in time- and dose-dependent manner, eHsp-27 and increases eHsp-60, eHsp-70 and IL-1β levels. In contrast, incubation of HFMi tissue with E. coli + P4 reversed eHsp and IL-1β secretion levels relative to E. coli stimulation group but not relative to the control group. The same profile was observed on the expression of eHsp-27 and eHsp-60. DISCUSSION we found that progesterone modulates the anti-inflammatory (eHsp-27) and pro-inflammatory (eHsp-60 and eHsp-70) levels of eHsp induced by E. coli infection in human choriodecidual tissue. eHsp-60 and eHsp-70 levels were not completely reversed; maintaining the secretion of IL-1β, which has been associated with adverse events during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janelly Estefania Palacios-Luna
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Mariana Victoria López-Marrufo
- Departamento de Ginecología y Obstetricia. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gerardo Bautista-Bautista
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Cinthia Selene Velarde-Guerra
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Graciela Villeda-Gabriel
- Departamento de Inmunología e Infectología, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Oscar Flores-Herrera
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Mauricio Osorio-Caballero
- Departamento de Salud Sexual y Reproductiva. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Jose Carlos Aguilar-Carrasco
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México. Mexico
| | - Martha Leticia Palafox-Vargas
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Guadalupe García-López
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México. Mexico
| | - Oscar Díaz-Ruíz
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Fabián Arechavaleta-Velasco
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Reproductiva. Hospital de Gineco-Obstetricia No. 4 "Luis Castelazo Ayala" Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México. Mexico.
| | - Hector Flores-Herrera
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Lindblad A, Wu R, Persson K, Demirel I. The Role of NLRP3 in Regulation of Antimicrobial Peptides and Estrogen Signaling in UPEC-Infected Bladder Epithelial Cells. Cells 2023; 12:2298. [PMID: 37759520 PMCID: PMC10526908 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The NLRP3 inflammasome, estrogen and antimicrobial peptides have all been found to have a vital role in the protection of the bladder urothelium. However, the interdependence between these protective factors during a bladder infection is currently unknown. Our aim was to investigate the role of NLRP3 in the regulation of antimicrobial peptides and estrogen signaling in bladder epithelial cells during a UPEC infection. Human bladder epithelial cells and CRISPR/Cas9-generated NLRP3-deficient cells were stimulated with the UPEC strain CFT073 and estradiol. The gene and protein expression were evaluated with microarray, qRT-PCR, western blot and ELISA. Microarray results showed that the expression of most antimicrobial peptides was reduced in CFT073-infected NLRP3-deficient cells compared to Cas9 control cells. Conditioned medium from NLRP3-deficient cells also lost the ability to suppress CFT073 growth. Moreover, NLRP3-deficient cells had lower basal release of Beta-defensin-1, Beta-defensin-2 and RNase7. The ability of estradiol to induce an increased expression of antimicrobial peptides was also abrogated in NLRP3-deficient cells. The decreased antimicrobial peptide expression might be linked to the observed reduced expression and activity of estradiol receptor beta in NLRP3-deficient cells. This study suggests that NLRP3 may regulate the release and expression of antimicrobial peptides and affect estrogen signaling in bladder epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Isak Demirel
- School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, 701 82 Örebro, Sweden; (A.L.); (R.W.); (K.P.)
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Yan Y, Niu Y, Ma Y, Zhao X, Pan M, Ma B, Wei Q. Estradiol Regulates the Expression and Secretion of Antimicrobial Peptide S100A7 via the ERK1/2-Signaling Pathway in Goat Mammary Epithelial Cells. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:3077. [PMID: 36428305 PMCID: PMC9687026 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223077] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
S100A7 has received extensive attention in the prevention and treatment of mastitis across a broad spectrum, yet there is a little information about its mechanism, especially in the immunomodulatory effects of estrogen. In the present study, based on the milk bacteriological culture (BC) of 30 dairy goats, the concentration of both estrogen and S100A7 in the BC-positive samples was not significantly different than in the BC-negative samples; the estrogen abundance in subclinical and clinical mastitis samples also showed only a limited difference; compared with healthy samples, the S100A7 abundance in subclinical mastitis samples differed little, while it was significantly decreased in clinical mastitis samples. Moreover, the relationship between estrogen and S100A7 was positive, and the regression equation was y = 0.3206x + 23.459. The goat mammary epithelial cells (gMECs) were isolated and treated with 1, 10, 100 nM E2 and/or 5 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS), respectively, for 6 h. Compared with control samples, 5 μg/mL LPS, 10 nM E2 and 100 nM E2 markedly induced S100A7 expression and secretion. More than separated treatment, the cooperation of LPS and E2 also significantly increased S100A7 expression, rather than S100A7 secretion. The p-ERK was up-regulated markedly with 100 nM E2 treatment, while the expression of p-JNK, p-p38 and p-Akt had little effect. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1(GPER1) agonist G1 markedly induced S100A7 expression and secretion in gMECs, and the estrogen nuclear receptor antagonist ICI and GPER1 antagonist G15 significantly repressed this process. In conclusion, E2 binds to nuclear and membrane receptors to regulate the expression and secretion of S100A7 via the ERK1/2-signaling pathway in gMECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Yan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Yuwei Niu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Yingwan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Menghao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Baohua Ma
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
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7
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Hughes SM, Levy CN, Katz R, Lokken EM, Anahtar MN, Hall MB, Bradley F, Castle PE, Cortez V, Doncel GF, Fichorova R, Fidel PL, Fowke KR, Francis SC, Ghosh M, Hwang LY, Jais M, Jespers V, Joag V, Kaul R, Kyongo J, Lahey T, Li H, Makinde J, McKinnon LR, Moscicki AB, Novak RM, Patel MV, Sriprasert I, Thurman AR, Yegorov S, Mugo NR, Roxby AC, Micks E, Hladik F. Changes in concentrations of cervicovaginal immune mediators across the menstrual cycle: a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual patient data. BMC Med 2022; 20:353. [PMID: 36195867 PMCID: PMC9533580 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02532-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle play a key role in shaping immunity in the cervicovaginal tract. Cervicovaginal fluid contains cytokines, chemokines, immunoglobulins, and other immune mediators. Many studies have shown that the concentrations of these immune mediators change throughout the menstrual cycle, but the studies have often shown inconsistent results. Our understanding of immunological correlates of the menstrual cycle remains limited and could be improved by meta-analysis of the available evidence. METHODS We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of cervicovaginal immune mediator concentrations throughout the menstrual cycle using individual participant data. Study eligibility included strict definitions of the cycle phase (by progesterone or days since the last menstrual period) and no use of hormonal contraception or intrauterine devices. We performed random-effects meta-analyses using inverse-variance pooling to estimate concentration differences between the follicular and luteal phases. In addition, we performed a new laboratory study, measuring select immune mediators in cervicovaginal lavage samples. RESULTS We screened 1570 abstracts and identified 71 eligible studies. We analyzed data from 31 studies, encompassing 39,589 concentration measurements of 77 immune mediators made on 2112 samples from 871 participants. Meta-analyses were performed on 53 immune mediators. Antibodies, CC-type chemokines, MMPs, IL-6, IL-16, IL-1RA, G-CSF, GNLY, and ICAM1 were lower in the luteal phase than the follicular phase. Only IL-1α, HBD-2, and HBD-3 were elevated in the luteal phase. There was minimal change between the phases for CXCL8, 9, and 10, interferons, TNF, SLPI, elafin, lysozyme, lactoferrin, and interleukins 1β, 2, 10, 12, 13, and 17A. The GRADE strength of evidence was moderate to high for all immune mediators listed here. CONCLUSIONS Despite the variability of cervicovaginal immune mediator measurements, our meta-analyses show clear and consistent changes during the menstrual cycle. Many immune mediators were lower in the luteal phase, including chemokines, antibodies, matrix metalloproteinases, and several interleukins. Only interleukin-1α and beta-defensins were higher in the luteal phase. These cyclical differences may have consequences for immunity, susceptibility to infection, and fertility. Our study emphasizes the need to control for the effect of the menstrual cycle on immune mediators in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Hughes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Claire N Levy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ronit Katz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Erica M Lokken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Melis N Anahtar
- Ragon Institute of MIT and Harvard, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Frideborg Bradley
- Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Philip E Castle
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Valerie Cortez
- Department of Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | | | - Raina Fichorova
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paul L Fidel
- Louisiana State University Health, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Keith R Fowke
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Suzanna C Francis
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mimi Ghosh
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Loris Y Hwang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mariel Jais
- Office of Laboratory Safety, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Vineet Joag
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jordan Kyongo
- Virology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Timothy Lahey
- University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Huiying Li
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Julia Makinde
- IAVI Human Immunology Laboratory, Imperial College, London, England, UK
- IAVI, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lyle R McKinnon
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anna-Barbara Moscicki
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Mickey V Patel
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Intira Sriprasert
- Department of OB/GYN, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Sergey Yegorov
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nelly Rwamba Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alison C Roxby
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutch, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Micks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Florian Hladik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutch, Seattle, WA, USA.
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8
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Wang Y, Wang X, Zhu M, Ge L, Liu X, Su K, Chen Z, Zhao W. The Interplay Between Cervicovaginal Microbial Dysbiosis and Cervicovaginal Immunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:857299. [PMID: 35359942 PMCID: PMC8960256 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.857299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The cervicovaginal microbiota plays a key role in the health and reproductive outcomes of women. In reality epidemiological studies have demonstrated that there is an association between the structure of cervicovaginal microbiota and reproductive health, although key mechanistic questions regarding these effects remain unanswered and understanding the interplay between the immune system and the structure of the cervicovaginal microbiota. Here, we review existing literature relating to the potential mechanisms underlying the interaction between vaginal microbes and the immune system; we also describe the composition and function of the microbiome and explain the mechanisms underlying the interactions between these microbial communities and various aspects of the immune system. Finally, we also discuss the diseases that are caused by disorders of the reproductive tract and how the immune system is involved. Finally, based on the data presented in this review, the future perspectives in research directions and therapeutic opportunities are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Meiling Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Li Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaochen Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Kaikai Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhengzheng Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Weidong Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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9
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Sugiyama M, Machida N, Yasunaga A, Terai N, Fukasawa H, Ono HK, Kobayashi R, Nishiyama K, Hashimoto O, Kurusu S, Yoshioka K. Vaginal mucus in mice: developmental and gene expression features of epithelial mucous cells during pregnancy†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1272-1282. [PMID: 34416757 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The vagina is the site of copulation and serves as the birth canal. It also provides protection against external pathogens. In mice, due to the absence of cervical glands, the vaginal epithelium is the main producer of vaginal mucus. The development and differentiation of vaginal epithelium-constituting cells and the molecular characteristics of vaginal mucus have not been thoroughly examined. Here, we characterized vaginal mucous cell development and the expression of mucus-related factors in pregnant mice. The vaginal mucous epithelium layer thickened and became multilayered after Day 12 of pregnancy and secreted increasing amounts of mucus until early postpartum. Using histochemistry and transmission electron microscopy, we found supra-basal mucous cells as probable candidates for precursor cells. In vaginal mucous cells, the expression of TFF1, a stabilizer of mucus, was high, and some members of mucins and antimicrobial peptides (MUC5B and DEFB1) were expressed in a stage-dependent manner. In summary, this study presents the partial characterization of vaginal epithelial mucous cell lineage and expression of genes encoding several peptide substances that may affect vaginal tissue homeostasis and mucosal immunity during pregnancy and parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Sugiyama
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan
| | - Nao Machida
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan
| | - Arata Yasunaga
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan.,Department of Animal Science, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan
| | - Nanako Terai
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan
| | - Hanae Fukasawa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan
| | - Hisaya K Ono
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Genome Science, Biological Genome Resource Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Keita Nishiyama
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Hashimoto
- Faculty of Bio-Science, Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology, Nagahama, Japan
| | - Shiro Kurusu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan
| | - Kazuki Yoshioka
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Japan
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10
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VanBenschoten HM, Woodrow KA. Vaginal delivery of vaccines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 178:113956. [PMID: 34481031 PMCID: PMC8722700 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent estimates suggest that one in two sexually active individuals will acquire a sexually transmitted infection by age 25, an alarming statistic that amounts to over 1 million new infections per day worldwide. Vaccination against STIs is highly desirable for alleviating this global burden of disease. Vaginal immunization is a promising strategy to combat transmission via the vaginal mucosa. The vagina is typically considered a poor inductive site for common correlates of adaptive immunity. However, emerging evidence suggests that immune tolerance may be overcome by precisely engineered vaccination schemes that orchestrate cell-mediated immunity and establish tissue resident memory immune cells. In this review, we will discuss the unique immunological milieu of the vaginal mucosa and our current understanding of correlates of pathogenesis and protection for several common STIs. We then present a summary of recent vaginal vaccine studies and explore the role that mucosal adjuvants and delivery systems play in enhancing protection according to requisite features of immunity. Finally, we offer perspectives on the challenges and future directions of vaginal vaccine delivery, discussing remaining physiological barriers and innovative vaccine formulations that may overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M VanBenschoten
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, United States
| | - Kim A Woodrow
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, United States.
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11
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Albracht CD, Hreha TN, Hunstad DA. Sex effects in pyelonephritis. Pediatr Nephrol 2021; 36:507-515. [PMID: 32040629 PMCID: PMC7415591 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-020-04492-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are generally considered a disease of women. However, UTIs affect females throughout the lifespan, and certain male populations (including infants and elderly men) are also susceptible. Epidemiologically, pyelonephritis is more common in women but carries increased morbidity when it does occur in men. Among children, high-grade vesicoureteral reflux is a primary risk factor for upper-tract UTI in both sexes. However, among young infants with UTI, girls are outnumbered by boys; risk factors include posterior urethral valves and lack of circumcision. Recent advances in mouse models of UTI reveal sex differences in innate responses to UTI, which vary somewhat depending on the system used. Moreover, male mice and androgenized female mice suffer worse outcomes in experimental pyelonephritis; evidence suggests that androgen exposure may suppress innate control of infection in the urinary tract, but additional androgen effects, as well as non-hormonal sex effects, may yet be specified. Among other intriguing directions, recent experiments raise the hypothesis that the postnatal testosterone surge that occurs in male infants may represent an additional factor driving the higher incidence of UTI in males under 6 months of age. Ongoing work in contemporary models will further illuminate sex- and sex-hormone-specific effects on UTI pathogenesis and immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clayton D Albracht
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Campus Box 8208, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Teri N Hreha
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Campus Box 8208, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - David A Hunstad
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Campus Box 8208, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Campus Box 8230, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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12
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Topical Estrogen Treatment Augments the Vaginal Response to Escherichia coli Flagellin. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8473. [PMID: 32439855 PMCID: PMC7242342 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64291-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The female climacteric or menopausal process characterised by reduced estrogen, associates with an increased risk of recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTIs) linked to uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Clinically, topical vaginal estrogen treatment has a prophylactic effect against such infections. The aim of this study was to investigate, in vitro, the effects of a topical estrogen treatment on vaginal epithelial responses following challenge with E.coli flagellin mimicking an UPEC challenge. Immortalised vaginal epithelial cells (VK2 E6/E7), modelling the vaginal epithelium were treated with either 4 nM 17β-estradiol (E) for seven days, 50 ng/ml E.coli flagellin (F) for 12 h, or 4 nM 17β-estradiol plus 50 ng/ml flagellin (E + F(12 h)). RNA was analysed by microarray gene profiling using the Illumina HumanHT-12 v 4 Expression Beadchip. Following E + F treatments expression of genes encoding host defence molecules including DEFβ4A, DEFB103A, LCN2 as well as those associated with keratinisation eg CNFN and SPRR family genes were significantly enhanced (P < 0.05) compared to either E or F treatments alone. Mutation of estrogen responsive elements (EREs) identified in the DEFβ4 gene promoter abolished the augmented gene expression suggesting estrogen functioned directly through a regulatory mechanism involving ESR1/2. Ingenuity pathway analyses also suggested the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-17A to regulate the vaginal host defences during infection. Pre-treating VK2 E6/E7 cells with estrogen (4 nM) and challenging with 1L-17A & F (12 h) significantly enhanced DEFβ4, DEF103A and S100A7 expression (P < 0.05). Origins of vaginal IL-17 in vivo remain unclear, but patient biopsies support γδ T cells located within the vaginal epithelium. These data suggest that the vaginal antimicrobial response induced by flagellin activation of Toll-like Receptor 5 cell signalling is augmented following topical estrogen application.
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Expression of Psoriasin in Human Papillomavirus-Induced Cervical High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2019; 23:33-38. [PMID: 30247221 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Persistent infection with human papillomavirus causes cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs). The role of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in premalignant and malignant transformation is not fully understood. In this study, we examined the expression of human β-defensin 1 (HBD-1), HBD-2, HBD-3, LL37, psoriasin, and interleukin 8 (IL-8) in women with HSIL before and 6 months after surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS Biopsies and secretion samples from the cervical canal were collected from 19 patients with HSIL and 14 healthy controls. The mRNA expression of HBD-1, HBD-2, HBD-3, LL37, psoriasin, and IL-8 was analyzed before and 6 months after surgery excision using reverse transcriptase real time polymerase chain reaction. For protein analyses, ELISA and immunohistochemistry were used for psoriasin and ELISA for IL-8. RESULTS The mRNA expression of psoriasin was lower in patients before treatment compared with healthy controls (p = .05). After surgery, when the infection was cleared, psoriasin increased on mRNA (p = .04) and protein (p = .03) levels compared with before treatment. Immunostaining for psoriasin after treatment was prominent and localized in the cytoplasm of the epithelial cells. After treatment, IL-8 mRNA was reduced compared with before treatment (p = .05), but not on the protein level. No changes in mRNA expression of the other AMPs analyzed were observed in pretreatment and posttreatment samples. CONCLUSIONS In this study of AMP expression in human papillomavirus-induced HSIL, we observed lower psoriasin levels before surgery compared with after treatment, when both mRNA and protein levels were similar to healthy controls. Interleukin 8, on the other hand, was increased before treatment, indicating an inflammatory response.
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Human β-defensin 1 in follicular fluid and semen: impact on fertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:787-797. [PMID: 30712073 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01409-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE β-defensins are antimicrobial peptides expressed at mucosal level of male and female genito-urinary tract, where they exert protective functions against infections, possibly preserving human health and fertility. In our study, we investigated the possible involvement of β-defensins in female and male infertility in Italian infertile couples (i) evaluating the presence of human β-defensin 1 (hBD-1) in follicular fluid (FF) and its correlation with in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes; (ii) investigating the relationship between hBD-1 levels in semen and IVF outcomes (comprising correlation with sperm parameters); and (iii) exploring the effect of hBD-1 peptide on spermatozoa motility in vitro. METHODS A perspective observational analytic pilot study was conducted. hBD-1 concentration was measured with ELISA assay in FF and semen from 50 couples that underwent assisted procreation technique procedures due to infertility status. Moreover, hBD-1 exogenous peptide was administered to 29 normozoospermic semen and their motility was recorded. RESULTS hBD-1 was detected in FF and its levels were significantly higher in women with good fertilization rate (≥ 75%), respect to those with a poor fertilization rate (< 75%). The hBD-1 semen concentrations in oligo-asthenozoospermic subjects were significantly lower than that in normozoospermic men. Instead, hBD-1 level in sperm and FF not correlated with pregnancy rate. Finally, incubation of sperm with exogenous hBD-1 significantly increased progressive motility after 1 h and 24 h. CONCLUSIONS Being aware of the relatively small sample size and medium power, our results possibly suggest that hBD-1 could influence oocyte and sperm quality, and could improve, when exogenously added, sperm motility.
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15
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Meade KG, O'Farrelly C. β-Defensins: Farming the Microbiome for Homeostasis and Health. Front Immunol 2019; 9:3072. [PMID: 30761155 PMCID: PMC6362941 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.03072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse commensal populations are now regarded as key to physiological homeostasis and protection against disease. Although bacteria are the most abundant component of microbiomes, and the most intensively studied, the microbiome also consists of viral, fungal, archael, and protozoan communities, about which comparatively little is known. Host-defense peptides (HDPs), originally described as antimicrobial, now have renewed significance as curators of the pervasive microbial loads required to maintain homeostasis and manage microbiome diversity. Harnessing HDP biology to transition away from non-selective, antibiotic-mediated treatments for clearance of microbes is a new paradigm, particularly in veterinary medicine. One family of evolutionarily conserved HDPs, β-defensins which are produced in diverse combinations by epithelial and immune cell populations, are multifunctional cationic peptides which manage the cross-talk between host and microbes and maintain a healthy yet dynamic equilibrium across mucosal systems. They are therefore key gatekeepers to the oral, respiratory, reproductive and enteric tissues, preventing pathogen-associated inflammation and disease and maintaining physiological normality. Expansions in the number of genes encoding these natural antibiotics have been described in the genomes of some species, the functional significance of which has only recently being appreciated. β-defensin expression has been documented pre-birth and disruptions in their regulation may play a role in maladaptive neonatal immune programming, thereby contributing to subsequent disease susceptibility. Here we review recent evidence supporting a critical role for β-defensins as farmers of the pervasive and complex prokaryotic ecosystems that occupy all body surfaces and cavities. We also share some new perspectives on the role of β-defensins as sensors of homeostasis and the immune vanguard particularly at sites of immunological privilege where inflammation is attenuated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kieran G. Meade
- Animal and Bioscience Research Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Ireland
| | - Cliona O'Farrelly
- School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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16
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Immunomodulatory Effects of 17 β-Estradiol on Epithelial Cells during Bacterial Infections. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:6098961. [PMID: 30246035 PMCID: PMC6136541 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6098961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The innate immune system can function under hormonal control. 17β-Estradiol (E2) is an important sexual hormone for the reproductive cycle of mammals, and it has immunomodulatory effects on epithelial cells, which are the first line of defense against incoming bacteria. E2 regulates various pathophysiological processes, including the response to infection in epithelial cells, and its effects involve the regulation of innate immune signaling pathways, which are mediated through estrogen receptors (ERs). E2 modulates the expression of inflammatory and antimicrobial elements such as cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. The E2 effects on epithelial cells during bacterial infections are characterized by an increase in the production of antimicrobial peptides and by the diminution of the inflammatory response to abrogate proinflammatory cytokine induction by bacteria. Here, we review several novel molecular mechanisms through which E2 regulates the innate immune response of epithelial cells against bacterial infections.
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17
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Chin-Smith EC, Hezelgrave NL, Tribe RM. Host Defense Peptide Expression in Human Cervical Cells and Regulation by 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 in the Presence of Cytokines and Bacterial Endotoxin. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:1208-1217. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719117737847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Evonne C. Chin-Smith
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King’s College London, Women’s Health Academic Centre KHP, St Thomas’ Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Natasha L. Hezelgrave
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King’s College London, Women’s Health Academic Centre KHP, St Thomas’ Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Rachel M. Tribe
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King’s College London, Women’s Health Academic Centre KHP, St Thomas’ Hospital Campus, London, UK
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18
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Srisomboon Y, Poonyachoti S, Deachapunya C. Soy isoflavones enhance β-defensin synthesis and secretion in endometrial epithelial cells with exposure to TLR3 agonist polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid. Am J Reprod Immunol 2017; 78. [PMID: 28429578 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM β-defensins are important innate chemical barriers that protect the endometrium from pathogen invasion. The effects of soy isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, on the expression and secretion of porcine β-defensins (PBD) in endometrial epithelial cells were investigated under normal or poly I:C-stimulated conditions. METHOD OF STUDY Primary cultured porcine endometrial epithelial (PE) cells were pretreated with genistein or daidzein followed by poly I:C inoculation. During treatment, the culture media were analyzed for PBD 1-4 secretion by ELISA and the total RNA for PBD gene expression by quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS Porcine endometrial epithelial cells constitutively expressed PBD 1-4 and secreted PBD-1, PBD-2, and PBD-4. Genistein and daidzein enhanced PBD-2 expression and PBD-2 and PBD-3 secretion. These compounds also potentiated PBD-2 and PBD-3 expression and secretion which were upregulated by poly I:C. CONCLUSION Soy isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, could be potentially used for promoting the innate host defense of endometrium against infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yotesawee Srisomboon
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sutthasinee Poonyachoti
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chatsri Deachapunya
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
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19
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Isobe N. Control mechanisms for producing antimicrobial factors in ruminant mammary gland. Anim Sci J 2017; 88:937-943. [DOI: 10.1111/asj.12808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Isobe
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science; Hiroshima University; Higashi-Hiroshima Japan
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20
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Kuwahara K, Yoshimura Y, Isobe N. Effect of steroid hormones on the innate immune response induced by Staphylococcus aureus in the goat mammary gland. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:579-584. [PMID: 28295702 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to compare the dynamics of innate immune components after intramammary infusion of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) under conditions of high oestrogen and high progesterone in goats. In one group ("E-group"), controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices were inserted intravaginally from days -11 to -4. Prostaglandin F2α was administered immediately after removal of the CIDR device at day -3, and then oestradiol benzoate (E) was injected intramuscularly once a day from days -2 to 3. Heat-inactivated SA was then administered via intramammary infusion to the left udder at day 0, whilst only saline was infused to the right udder as a control. In a second group ("P-group"), CIDR devices were inserted intravaginally from days -3 to 7 and SA was infused at day 0 in the same way as in the E-group. The milk yield and the concentration of innate immune components (somatic cell count (SCC), lactoferrin (LF), S100A7 and goat ß-defensin 1 (GBD-1)) in the milk were measured. Milk yield decreased drastically in both SA and control udders in the E-group, whereas the P-group exhibited increased milk yield in both SA and control udders. SCC increased after SA infusion in both E- and P-groups, although it was higher in the E-group than in the P-group. There was no significant change in LF concentration in the E-group, but a decrease was observed in the P-group. Concentrations of S100A and GBD-1 were significantly increased after SA infusion in the E-group but not in the P-group. These results suggest that E enhances the innate immune response induced by SA in the goat mammary gland. This effect may be due to the reduction in milk yield and upregulation of innate immune components.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Kuwahara
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Y Yoshimura
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - N Isobe
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Gürsoy M, Gürsoy UK, Liukkonen A, Kauko T, Penkkala S, Könönen E. Salivary antimicrobial defensins in pregnancy. J Clin Periodontol 2016; 43:807-15. [PMID: 27191801 DOI: 10.1111/jcpe.12581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM Susceptibility to and severity of gingival inflammation are enhanced during pregnancy; however, regulation of oral innate immune response, including antimicrobial peptides, during pregnancy is still unknown. We analysed salivary levels of human beta-defensin (hBD)-1, -2, -3, and human neutrophil peptide (HNP)-1 in pregnant women, and related those to their periodontal status. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this cohort study, 30 generally healthy, non-smoking Caucasian women without periodontitis were followed at three time points during pregnancy and twice post-partum. The non-pregnant group consisted of 24 women, who were examined three times at the following months. At each visit, periodontal status was recorded and stimulated saliva samples were collected. Salivary estradiol, progesterone, and defensin concentrations were measured by ELISA assays. RESULTS After adjusting for visible plaque and gingival bleeding, reduced salivary concentrations of hBD-1, hBD-2, and HNP-1 were found especially during the third trimester, whereas hBD-3 concentrations did not change during pregnancy and post-partum visits. Weak associations were observed between salivary defensin and hormone concentrations and clinical parameters. CONCLUSION There seems to be an independent regulation cascade for each antimicrobial defensin in the oral cavity during pregnancy, despite of the similarities between these antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mervi Gürsoy
- Department of Periodontology, Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
| | - Ulvi K Gürsoy
- Department of Periodontology, Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Anna Liukkonen
- Department of Periodontology, Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Tommi Kauko
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Saara Penkkala
- Department of Periodontology, Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Eija Könönen
- Department of Periodontology, Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Oral Health Care, Welfare Division, City of Turku, Turku, Finland
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22
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Yamasaki A, Yoshimura Y, Isobe N. Changes in the concentrations of somatic cell counts, lingual antimicrobial peptide and lactoperoxidase activity in milk at periovulatory period in dairy cows. Anim Sci J 2016; 88:484-488. [DOI: 10.1111/asj.12644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Yamasaki
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science; Hiroshima University; Higashi-Hiroshima Japan
| | - Yukinori Yoshimura
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science; Hiroshima University; Higashi-Hiroshima Japan
| | - Naoki Isobe
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science; Hiroshima University; Higashi-Hiroshima Japan
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Œstrogénothérapie locale en urologie et pelvi-périnéologie. Revue de littérature. Prog Urol 2015; 25:628-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2015.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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24
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Yarbrough VL, Winkle S, Herbst-Kralovetz MM. Antimicrobial peptides in the female reproductive tract: a critical component of the mucosal immune barrier with physiological and clinical implications. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 21:353-77. [PMID: 25547201 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND At the interface of the external environment and the mucosal surface of the female reproductive tract (FRT) lies a first-line defense against pathogen invasion that includes antimicrobial peptides (AMP). Comprised of a unique class of multifunctional, amphipathic molecules, AMP employ a wide range of functions to limit microbial invasion and replication within host cells as well as independently modulate the immune system, dampen inflammation and maintain tissue homeostasis. The role of AMP in barrier defense at the level of the skin and gut has received much attention as of late. Given the far reaching implications for women's health, maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, and sexually transmissible and polymicrobial diseases, we herein review the distribution and function of key AMP throughout the female reproductive mucosa and assess their role as an essential immunological barrier to microbial invasion throughout the reproductive cycle of a woman's lifetime. METHODS A comprehensive search in PubMed/Medline was conducted related to AMP general structure, function, signaling, expression, distribution and barrier function of AMP in the FRT, hormone regulation of AMP, the microbiome of the FRT, and AMP in relation to implantation, pregnancy, fertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, complications of pregnancy and assisted reproductive technology. RESULTS AMP are amphipathic peptides that target microbes for destruction and have been conserved throughout all living organisms. In the FRT, several major classes of AMP are expressed constitutively and others are inducible at the mucosal epithelium and by immune cells. AMP expression is also under the influence of sex hormones, varying throughout the menstrual cycle, and dependent on the vaginal microbiome. AMP can prevent infection with sexually transmissible and opportunistic pathogens of the female reproductive tissues, although emerging understanding of vaginal dysbiosis suggests induction of a unique AMP profile with increased susceptibility to these pathogens. During pregnancy, AMP are key immune effectors of the fetal membranes and placenta and are dysregulated in states of intrauterine infection and other complications of pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS At the level of the FRT, AMP serve to inhibit infection by sexually and vertically transmissible as well as by opportunistic bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa and must do so throughout the hormone flux of menses and pregnancy. Guarding the exclusive site of reproduction, AMP modulate the vaginal microbiome of the lower FRT to aid in preventing ascending microbes into the upper FRT. Evolving in parallel with, and in response to, pathogenic insults, AMP are relatively immune to the resistance mechanisms employed by rapidly evolving pathogens and play a key role in barrier function and host defense throughout the FRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria L Yarbrough
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, , Phoenix, AZ 85004-2157, USA
| | - Sean Winkle
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, , Phoenix, AZ 85004-2157, USA
| | - Melissa M Herbst-Kralovetz
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, , Phoenix, AZ 85004-2157, USA
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Wira CR, Rodriguez-Garcia M, Shen Z, Patel M, Fahey JV. The role of sex hormones and the tissue environment in immune protection against HIV in the female reproductive tract. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 72:171-81. [PMID: 24661500 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive studies of the mucosal immune system in the female reproductive tract (FRT) and its regulation by sex hormones, relatively little attention has been paid to the tissue environment in the FRT that regulates immune cell function. Consisting of secretions from epithelial cells (EC), stromal fibroblasts, and immune cells in tissues from the upper (Fallopian tubes, uterus, and endocervix) and lower (ectocervix and vagina) tracts, each tissue compartment is unique and precisely regulates immune cells to optimize conditions for successful pregnancy and protection against sexually transmitted diseases including HIV. Our goal in this review is to focus on the mucosal (tissue) environment in the upper and lower FRT. Specifically, this review will identify the contributions of EC and fibroblasts to the tissue environment and examine the impact of this environment on HIV-target cells. Much remains to be learned about the complex interactions with the tissue environment at different sites in the FRT and the ways in which they are regulated by sex hormones and chemical contraceptives. Awareness of the involvement of the tissue environment in determining immune cell function and HIV acquisition is crucial for understanding the mechanisms that lead to HIV prevention, acquisition, and the development of new therapeutic modalities of immune protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Wira
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA
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Abstract
Recent advances in the immunology, pathogenesis, and prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continue to reveal clues to the mechanisms involved in the progressive immunodeficiency attributed to infection, but more importantly have shed light on the correlates of immunity to infection and disease progression. HIV selectively infects, eliminates, and/or dysregulates several key cells of the human immune system, thwarting multiple arms of the host immune response, and inflicting severe damage to mucosal barriers, resulting in tissue infiltration of 'symbiotic' intestinal bacteria and viruses that essentially become opportunistic infections promoting systemic immune activation. This leads to activation and recruitment or more target cells for perpetuating HIV infection, resulting in persistent, high-level viral replication in lymphoid tissues, rapid evolution of resistant strains, and continued evasion of immune responses. However, vaccine studies and studies of spontaneous controllers are finally providing correlates of immunity from protection and disease progression, including virus-specific CD4(+) T-cell responses, binding anti-bodies, innate immune responses, and generation of antibodies with potent antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity activity. Emerging correlates of immunity indicate that prevention of HIV infection may be possible through effective vaccine strategies that protect and stimulate key regulatory cells and immune responses in susceptible hosts. Furthermore, immune therapies specifically directed toward boosting specific aspects of the immune system may eventually lead to a cure for HIV-infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanbin Xu
- Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, Covington, LA 70433, USA
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Estrogenic action on innate defense mechanisms in the urinary tract. Maturitas 2013; 77:32-6. [PMID: 24296328 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2013.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Clinical data suggest an impact of estrogen on the pathogenesis of urinary tract infections (UTI). In particular, women after menopause often suffer from recurrent UTI, characterized by at least three acute UTI episodes within a year. Aside from bacterial factors promoting persistence within the urinary bladder, the low estrogen levels induce structural and chemical changes in the urogenital tract which facilitate UTI. Increased residual urine volume and changes in the vaginal microflora are well documented risk factors. Local supplementation with estrogen can at least partly reverse these changes. Treatment allows the re-establishment of a lactobacilli-dominated vaginal microflora and improves epithelial differentiation and integrity in the urogenital tract. This estrogenic effect on the epithelium is marked by an increased production of antimicrobial peptides and a tighter intercellular connection, preventing bacteria from reaching cells where they can hide and later emerge and cause a new infection. Estrogen in the dosages and applications used to date is considered safe for the endometrium in the majority of women. Based on the actions and safety of estrogen, local supplementation thus offers a treatment option for postmenopausal women suffering from recurrent UTI.
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Saba E, Origoni M, Taccagni G, Ferrari D, Doglioni C, Nava A, Lisco A, Grivel JC, Margolis L, Poli G. Productive HIV-1 infection of human cervical tissue ex vivo is associated with the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. Mucosal Immunol 2013; 6:1081-90. [PMID: 23385427 PMCID: PMC4153411 DOI: 10.1038/mi.2013.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cervical tissue explants (CTEs) from 22 HIV-1 seronegative women were exposed to R5 HIV-1 ex vivo. Eight CTEs were productively infected in terms of HIV-1 p24Gag release in culture supernatants, whereas 14 were not. Nonetheless, both accumulation of HIV-1gag DNA and of p24Gag(+) CD4(+) T cells and macrophages occurred in both productive and, at lower levels, in nonproductive CTEs. Nonproductive CTEs differed from productive CTEs for higher secretion of C-C motif chemokine ligand 3 (CCL3) and CCL5. A post-hoc analysis revealed that all productive CTEs were established from women in their secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, whereas nonproductive CTEs were derived from women either in their secretory (28%) or proliferative (36%) menstrual cycle phases or with an atrophic endometrium (36%). Thus, our results support the epidemiological observation that sexual HIV-1 transmission from males to women as well as from women to men is more efficient during their secretory phase of the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Saba
- AIDS Immunopathogenesis Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy,Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, School of Medicine, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimo Origoni
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, School of Medicine, Milano, Italy,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Gianluca Taccagni
- Department of Pathology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Davide Ferrari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Claudio Doglioni
- Department of Pathology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Alice Nava
- AIDS Immunopathogenesis Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Lisco
- Program in Physical Biology, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jean-Charles Grivel
- Program in Physical Biology, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Leonid Margolis
- Program in Physical Biology, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA,Correspondence: Prof. Guido Poli, M.D., P2/P3 Laboratories, DIBIT-1, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milano, Italy. Tel: +39-02-2643-4909; Fax: +39-02-2643-4905; , Dr. Leonid Margolis, Ph.D., NIH, 10 Center Drive, Bldg 10, Room 9D58, Bethesda MD 20892, USA. Tel: 301-5942-476; fax: 301-4800-857;
| | - Guido Poli
- AIDS Immunopathogenesis Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy,Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, School of Medicine, Milano, Italy,Correspondence: Prof. Guido Poli, M.D., P2/P3 Laboratories, DIBIT-1, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milano, Italy. Tel: +39-02-2643-4909; Fax: +39-02-2643-4905; , Dr. Leonid Margolis, Ph.D., NIH, 10 Center Drive, Bldg 10, Room 9D58, Bethesda MD 20892, USA. Tel: 301-5942-476; fax: 301-4800-857;
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Hamad M, Awadallah S. Estrogen-dependent changes in serum iron levels as a translator of the adverse effects of estrogen during infection: a conceptual framework. Med Hypotheses 2013; 81:1130-4. [PMID: 24211145 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2013.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Elevated levels of estrogen often associate with increased susceptibility to infection. This has been attributed to the ability of estrogen to concomitantly enhance the growth and virulence of pathogens and suppress host immunity. But the exact mechanism of how estrogen mediates such effects, especially in cases where the pathogen and/or the immune components in question do not express estrogen receptors, has yet to be elucidated. Here we propose that translating the adverse effects of estrogen during infection is dependent to a significant degree upon its ability to manipulate iron homeostasis. For elevated levels of estrogen alter the synthesis and/or activity of several factors involved in iron metabolism including hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and hepcidin among others. This leads to the inhibition of hepcidin synthesis in hepatocytes and the maintenance of ferroportin (FPN) integrity on the surface of iron-releasing duodenal enterocytes, hepatocytes, and macrophages. Intact FPN permits the continuous efflux of dietary and stored iron into the circulation, which further enhances pathogen growth and virulence on the one hand and suppresses host immunity on the other. This new conceptual framework may help explain a multitude of disparate clinical and experimental observations pertinent to the relationship between estrogen and infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mawieh Hamad
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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Flores-Espinosa P, Pineda-Torres M, Vega-Sánchez R, Estrada-Gutiérrez G, Espejel-Nuñez A, Flores-Pliego A, Maida-Claros R, Paredes-Vivas Y, Morales-Méndez I, Sosa-González I, Chávez-Mendoza A, Zaga-Clavellina V. Progesterone elicits an inhibitory effect upon LPS-induced innate immune response in pre-labor human amniotic epithelium. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 71:61-72. [PMID: 24128422 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Infection of human fetal membranes elicits secretion of pro-inflammatory modulators through its innate immune capacities. We investigated the effect of lipopolysacharide (LPS) and progesterone (P4) upon expression of TLR-4/MyD88, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and HBD2 on the human amniotic epithelium. METHOD OF STUDY Explants of the human amniotic epithelium were pre-treated with 0.01, 0.1, and 1.0 μM of P4; then cotreated with 1000 ng/mL LPS. TLR-4 was immuno-detected, and concentrations of MyD88, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and HBD2 were quantified by ELISA. RESULTS P4 significantly reduced the expression of LPS-induced TLR-4/MyD88. LPS increased the concentrations of TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and HBD2 by factors of 30-, eight, three, three, and fivefold, respectively. P4 at 1.0 μM was the most effective dose to blunt the secretion of TNFα, IL-6, and HBD-2. RU-486 blocks the effect of P4. CONCLUSION P4 inhibited LPS-induced TLR-4/MyD88 and pro-inflammatory factors in the human amniotic epithelium. These results could explain partially how P4 can protect the amniotic region of fetal membranes and generate a compensatory mechanism that limits the secretion of pro-inflammatory modulators, which could jeopardize the immune privilege during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Flores-Espinosa
- Department of Cell Biology, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico City, Mexico; Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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Luthje P, Brauner H, Ramos NL, Ovregaard A, Glaser R, Hirschberg AL, Aspenstrom P, Brauner A. Estrogen Supports Urothelial Defense Mechanisms. Sci Transl Med 2013; 5:190ra80. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3005574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Olsen K, Danielsen K, Wilsgaard T, Sangvik M, Sollid JUE, Thune I, Eggen AE, Simonsen GS, Furberg AS. Obesity and Staphylococcus aureus nasal colonization among women and men in a general population. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63716. [PMID: 23667661 PMCID: PMC3646820 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity and diabetes mellitus (DM) have been linked to increased risk of infections, and Staphylococcus aureus nasal colonization is a major risk factor for developing infections with the microbe. We therefore sought to find whether body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) could be associated with S. aureus colonization independent of DM. METHODOLOGY S. aureus colonization was assessed by nasal swab cultures among 2,169 women and 1,709 men, aged 30-87 years, in the population-based Tromsø Staph and Skin Study in 2007-08. Height (cm), weight (kg), WC (cm), and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c,%) were measured. Multivariable logistic regression analyses including information on DM, HbA1c, hormonal contraceptive use and other potential confounders were used. RESULTS In the female population, each 2.5 kg/m(2) increase in BMI was associated with a 7% higher odds of S. aureus nasal colonization (P = 0.01). When comparing obese and lean women aged 30-43 years, we observed that BMI ≥32.5 versus <22.5 kg/m(2) and WC ≥101 versus <80 cm was associated with a 2.60 and 2.12 times higher odds of S. aureus colonization, respectively (95% confidence intervals 1.35-4.98 and 1.17-3.85). Among men, high WC was also associated with S. aureus nasal colonization. The associations did not change significantly when the analysis was restricted to participants without signs of pre-diabetes (HbA1c <6.0%) among women and men, and to non-users of hormonal contraceptives among women. CONCLUSION Our results support that obesity is a possible determinant for S. aureus nasal colonization independent of DM, in particular for premenopausal women. The role of obesity at different ages and by sex should be addressed in future prospective studies of S. aureus colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Olsen
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
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Wittersheim M, Cordes J, Meyer-Hoffert U, Harder J, Hedderich J, Gläser R. Differential expression andin vivosecretion of the antimicrobial peptides psoriasin (S100A7), RNase 7, human beta-defensin-2 and -3 in healthy human skin. Exp Dermatol 2013; 22:364-6. [DOI: 10.1111/exd.12133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maike Wittersheim
- Institute of Pathology; University Hospital Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - Jesko Cordes
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology; University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein; Kiel Germany
| | - Ulf Meyer-Hoffert
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology; University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein; Kiel Germany
| | - Jürgen Harder
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology; University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein; Kiel Germany
| | - Jürgen Hedderich
- Institute of Medical Informatics and Statistics; University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein; Kiel Germany
| | - Regine Gläser
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology; University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein; Kiel Germany
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Nold C, Maubert M, Anton L, Yellon S, Elovitz MA. Prevention of preterm birth by progestational agents: what are the molecular mechanisms? Am J Obstet Gynecol 2013; 208:223.e1-7. [PMID: 23433326 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2013.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Revised: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinically, vaginal progesterone (VP) and 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17P) have been shown to prevent preterm birth (PTB) in high-risk populations. We hypothesize that treatment with these agents may prevent PTB by altering molecular pathways involved in uterine contractility or cervical remodeling. STUDY DESIGN Using a mouse model, on embryonic day (E)14-E17 CD-1 pregnant mice were treated with: (1) 0.1 mL of 25 mg/mL of 17P subcutaneously; (2) 0.1 mL of castor oil subcutaneously; (3) 0.1 mL of 10 mg/mL of progesterone in a long-lasting Replens (Lil' Drug Store Products, Inc., Cedar Rapids, IA); or (4) 0.1 mL of the same Replens, with 4 dams per treatment group. Mice were sacrificed 6 hours after treatment on E17.5. Cervices and uteri were collected for molecular analysis. RESULTS Exposure to VP significantly increased the expression of defensin 1 compared to Replens (P < .01) on E17.5. Neither VP nor 17P altered the expression of uterine contraction-associated proteins, progesterone-mediated regulators of uterine quiescence, microRNA involved in uterine contractility, or pathways involved in cervical remodeling. In addition, neither agent had an effect on immune cell trafficking or collagen content in the cervix. CONCLUSION Neither VP nor 17P had any effect on the studied pathways known to be involved in uterine contractility or quiescence. In the cervix, neither VP nor 17P altered pathways demonstrated to be involved in cervical remodeling. Administration of VP was noted to increase the expression of the antimicrobial protein defensin 1. Whether this molecular change from VP results in a functional effect and is a key mechanism by which VP prevents PTB requires further study.
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Chandra N, Thurman AR, Anderson S, Cunningham TD, Yousefieh N, Mauck C, Doncel GF. Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate increases immune cell numbers and activation markers in human vaginal mucosal tissues. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2013. [PMID: 23189932 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2012.0271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between exogenous contraceptive hormones and permissiveness of the female genital tract to human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is the subject of renewed debate. To better characterize the effect of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) on HIV-1 cellular targets and epithelial integrity in the vagina, we compared leukocyte populations, markers of activation and proliferation, and the density of intercellular junctional proteins in the vaginal epithelium of women during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle and approximately 12 weeks after receiving a DMPA injection. This prospective cohort study involved 15 healthy women. Vaginal biopsies were obtained in the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle, and approximately 12 weeks following a 150-mg intramuscular injection of DMPA. Leukocyte populations, activation phenotype, and epithelial tight junction and adherens proteins were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. After receiving DMPA, the numbers of CD45, CD3, CD8, CD68, HLA-DR, and CCR5 bearing immune cells were significantly (p<0.05) increased in vaginal tissues, compared to the follicular and/or luteal phases of untreated cycles. There were no significant differences in immune cell populations between the follicular and luteal phases of the control cycle. There were also no statistically significant differences in epithelial thickness and density of epithelial tight junction and adherens proteins among the follicular, luteal, and post-DMPA treatment sampling points. In this pilot study, vaginal immune cell populations were significantly altered by exogenous progesterone, resulting in increased numbers of T cells, macrophages, and HLA-DR- and CCR5-positive cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelima Chandra
- CONRAD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Andrea Ries Thurman
- CONRAD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Sharon Anderson
- CONRAD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Tina Duong Cunningham
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Graduate Program in Public Health, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Nazita Yousefieh
- CONRAD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Christine Mauck
- CONRAD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Gustavo F. Doncel
- CONRAD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
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Patel MV, Fahey JV, Rossoll RM, Wira CR. Innate immunity in the vagina (part I): estradiol inhibits HBD2 and elafin secretion by human vaginal epithelial cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 69:463-74. [PMID: 23398087 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Accepted: 01/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Vaginal epithelial cells (VEC) are the first line of defense against incoming pathogens in the female reproductive tract. Their ability to produce the anti-HIV molecules elafin and HBD2 under hormonal stimulation is unknown. METHOD OF STUDY Vaginal epithelial cells were recovered using a menstrual cup and cultured overnight prior to treatment with estradiol (E₂), progesterone (P₄) or a panel of selective estrogen response modulators (SERMs). Conditioned media were recovered and analyzed for protein concentration and anti-HIV activity. RESULTS E₂ significantly decreased the secretion of HBD2 and elafin by VEC over 48 hrs, while P4 and the SERMs (tamoxifen, PHTTP, ICI or Y134) had no effect. VEC conditioned media from E₂ -treated cells had no anti-HIV activity, while that from E₂ /P₄ -treated cells significantly inhibited HIV-BaL infection. CONCLUSION The menstrual cup allows for effective recovery of primary VEC. Their production of HBD2 and elafin is sensitive to E₂, suggesting that innate immune protection varies in the vagina across the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mickey V Patel
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
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Solar P, Velasquez L. Consequences of nongenomic actions of estradiol on pathogenic genital tract response. J Mol Signal 2013; 8:1. [PMID: 23351368 PMCID: PMC3570385 DOI: 10.1186/1750-2187-8-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Estradiol is a steroid hormone that regulates the structure and function of the female reproductive system. In addition to its genomic effects, which are mediated by activated nuclear receptors, estradiol elicits a variety of rapid signaling events independently of transcriptional or genomic regulation. These nongenomic actions influence the milieu of the genital tract, which changes the ability of pathogens to infect the genital tract. This review discusses our current knowledge regarding the mechanisms and relevance of nongenomic estradiol signaling in the genital tract that could change the ability of pathogens to invade epithelial cells. PubMed was searched through January 1980 for papers related to estradiol actions in the ovary, fallopian tube, uterus and cervix. The mechanisms conveying these rapid effects consist of a multitude of signaling molecules and include cross-talk with slower transcriptional actions. The nongenomic actions of estradiol that influence the infectious abilities of pathogens occur either directly on the genital tract cells or indirectly by modulating the local and systemic immune systems. Additional in-depth characterization of the response is required before the normal and pathological reproductive functions of the nongenomic estradiol pathway can be targeted for pharmacological intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Solar
- Center for Integrative Medicine and Innovative Sciences, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andrés Bello, Echaurren 183, Santiago, Chile.
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de Oca EPM. Antimicrobial peptide elicitors: New hope for the post-antibiotic era. Innate Immun 2012; 19:227-41. [DOI: 10.1177/1753425912460708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides or host defense peptides are fundamental components of human innate immunity. Recent and growing evidence suggests they have a role in a broad range of diseases, including cancer, allergies and susceptibility to infection, including HIV/AIDS. Antimicrobial peptide elicitors (APEs) are physical, biological or chemical agents that boost human antimicrobial peptide expression. The current knowledge of APEs and their potential use in the treatment of human infectious diseases are reviewed, and a classification system for APEs is proposed. The efficient use of APEs in clinical practice could mark the beginning of the urgently needed post-antibiotic era, but further trials assessing their efficacy and safety are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Prado Montes de Oca
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Biosecurity Area, CIATEJ – National Council of Science and Technology, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
- In silico Laboratory, Pharmaceutical and Medical Biotechnology Unit, CIATEJ – National Council of Science and Technology, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
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Zanger P, Nurjadi D, Gaile M, Gabrysch S, Kremsner PG. Hormonal contraceptive use and persistent Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriage. Clin Infect Dis 2012; 55:1625-32. [PMID: 22955426 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cis778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human nares colonized with Staphylococcus aureus are the most important reservoir for this pathogen. We studied the influence of sex and hormonal contraceptive use on persistent S. aureus nasal carriage. METHODS We conducted a cohort study in healthy volunteers and determined carriage status at baseline and again at follow-up by using the results of 2 swab samples at each time point. We applied logistic regression to analyze associations of interest. RESULTS At baseline, 266 of 1180 volunteers (22.5%) were classified as persistent nasal carriers. Compared with women not using hormonal contraceptives, women taking reproductive hormones (odds ratio [OR]. 1.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29-2.75; P = .001) and men (OR., 1.57; 95% CI, 1.08-2.28; P = .02) were more likely to be persistent carriers. These associations remained stable after adjusting for known risk factors of nasal carriage. Women taking hormonal contraceptives and being persistent carriers at baseline were more likely to remain carriers after a median follow-up time of 70 days than women not using such medication (OR, 3.25; 95% CI, 1.44-7.34; P = .005). No patterns of association could be observed between persistent carriage among women and type of progestin or dose of estrogen used. Assuming causality and using estimates from multivariable logistic regression, we approximated that 20% (95% CI, 2.4%-34.9%) of persistent nasal carriage among women represented by our sample is attributable to hormonal contraception (population-attributable fraction). CONCLUSIONS The widespread use of hormonal contraception may substantially increase the human S. aureus reservoir with potential impact on S. aureus infection and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Zanger
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Eberhard Karls Universität, Tübingen, Germany.
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Wen S, Cao G, Bao T, Cheng L, Li H, Du C, Tu Y, Li Q, Jian R, Zhao P, Wuriliga. Modulation of ovine SBD-1 expression by 17beta-estradiol in ovine oviduct epithelial cells. BMC Vet Res 2012; 8:143. [PMID: 22920556 PMCID: PMC3487956 DOI: 10.1186/1746-6148-8-143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Accepted: 08/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mucosal epithelia, including those of the oviduct, secrete antimicrobial innate immune molecules (AIIMS). These have bactericidal/bacteriostatic functions against a variety of pathogens. Among the AIIMs, sheep β-defensin-1 (SBD-1) is one of the most potent. Even though the SBD-1 is an important AIIM and it is regulated closely by estrogenic hormone, the regulation mechanism of 17β-estradiol has not been clearly established. We investigated the effects of E2 and agonist or inhibitor on ovine oviduct epithelial cells in regard to SBD-1 expression using reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). In addition, three different pathways were inhibited separately or simultaneously to confirm the effect of different inhibitors in the regulation mechanism. Results 17beta-estradiol (E2) induced release of SBD-1 in ovine oviduct epithelial cells. SBD-1 expression was mediated through G-protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) and Estrogen Receptors (ERs) activation in ovine oviduct epithelial cell. Inhibition of gene expression of protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase C (PKC), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) led to a decreased SBD-1 expression. Conclusions Taken together, E2-induced up-regulation of SBD-1 expressions were GPR30-dependent during prophase and ERs-dependent during later-stage in ovine oviduct epithelial cells, and we assume that the effect was completed by the PKA, PKC, and NF-κB pathways simultaneous.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyong Wen
- College of Veterinary, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Huhhot, 010018, People's Republic of China
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Wira CR, Patel MV, Ghosh M, Mukura L, Fahey JV. Innate immunity in the human female reproductive tract: endocrine regulation of endogenous antimicrobial protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65:196-211. [PMID: 21294805 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.00970.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosal surfaces of the female reproductive tract (FRT) contain a spectrum of antimicrobials that provide the first line of defense against viruses, bacteria, and fungi that enter the lower FRT. Once thought to be a sterile compartment, the upper FRT is periodically exposed to pathogens throughout the menstrual cycle. More recently, secretions from the upper FRT have been shown to contribute to downstream protection in the lower FRT. In this review, we examine the antimicrobials in FRT secretions made by immune cells and epithelial cells in the upper and lower FRT that contribute to innate protection. Because each site is hormonally regulated to maintain fertility, this review focuses on the contributions of hormone balance during the menstrual cycle to innate immune protection. As presented in this review, studies from our laboratory and others demonstrate that sex hormones regulate antimicrobials produced by innate immune cells throughout the FRT. The goal of this review is to examine the spectrum of antimicrobials in the FRT and the ways in which they are regulated to provide protection against pathogens that compromise reproductive health and threaten the lives of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Wira
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
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Th17 cells and IL-17 in protective immunity to vaginal candidiasis. PLoS One 2011; 6:e22770. [PMID: 21818387 PMCID: PMC3144947 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Accepted: 06/29/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Th17 cells play a major role in coordinating the host defence in oropharyngeal candidiasis. In this study we investigated the involvement of the Th17 response in an animal model of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). METHODS To monitor the course of infection we exploited a new in vivo imaging technique. RESULTS i) The progression of VVC leads to a strong influx of neutrophils in the vagina soon after the challenge which persisted despite the resolution of infection; ii) IL-17, produced by vaginal cells, particularly CD4 T cells, was detected in the vaginal wash during the infection, reaching a maximum 14 days after the challenge; iii) The amount and kinetics of IL-23 in vaginal fluids were comparable to those in vaginal cells; iv) The inhibition of Th17 differentiation led to significant inhibition of IL-17 production with consequent exacerbation of infection; v) An increased production of βdefensin 2 was manifested in cells of infected mice. This production was strongly reduced when Th17 differentiation was inhibited and was increased by rIL-17 treatment. CONCLUSIONS These results imply that IL-17 and Th17, along with innate antimicrobial factors, have a role in the immune response to vaginal candidiasis.
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