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Luo Y, Lu J, Lei Z, Zhu H, Rao D, Wang T, Fu C, Zhang Z, Xia L, Huang W. Lysine methylation modifications in tumor immunomodulation and immunotherapy: regulatory mechanisms and perspectives. Biomark Res 2024; 12:74. [PMID: 39080807 PMCID: PMC11289998 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00621-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Lysine methylation is a crucial post-translational modification (PTM) that significantly impacts gene expression regulation. This modification not only influences cancer development directly but also has significant implications for the immune system. Lysine methylation modulates immune cell functions and shapes the anti-tumor immune response, highlighting its dual role in both tumor progression and immune regulation. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the intrinsic role of lysine methylation in the activation and function of immune cells, detailing how these modifications affect cellular processes and signaling pathways. We delve into the mechanisms by which lysine methylation contributes to tumor immune evasion, allowing cancer cells to escape immune surveillance and thrive. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting lysine methylation in cancer immunotherapy. Emerging strategies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, are being explored for their efficacy in modulating lysine methylation to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. By targeting these modifications, we can potentially improve the effectiveness of existing treatments and develop novel therapeutic approaches to combat cancer more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Luo
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Junli Lu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Zhen Lei
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - He Zhu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Dean Rao
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Tiantian Wang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Chenan Fu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Limin Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
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Lotze MT, Olejniczak SH, Skokos D. CD28 co-stimulation: novel insights and applications in cancer immunotherapy. Nat Rev Immunol 2024:10.1038/s41577-024-01061-1. [PMID: 39054343 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-01061-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Substantial progress in understanding T cell signalling, particularly with respect to T cell co-receptors such as the co-stimulatory receptor CD28, has been made in recent years. This knowledge has been instrumental in the development of innovative immunotherapies for patients with cancer, including immune checkpoint blockade antibodies, adoptive cell therapies, tumour-targeted immunostimulatory antibodies, and immunostimulatory small-molecule drugs that regulate T cell activation. Following the failed clinical trial of a CD28 superagonist antibody in 2006, targeted CD28 agonism has re-emerged as a technologically viable and clinically promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. In this Review, we explore recent insights into the molecular functions and regulation of CD28. We describe how CD28 is central to the success of current cancer immunotherapies and examine how new questions arising from studies of CD28 as a clinical target have enhanced our understanding of its biological role and may guide the development of future therapeutic strategies in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Lotze
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Scott H Olejniczak
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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Wang Z, Jia X, Sun W, Wang M, Yuan Q, Xu T, Liu Y, Chen Z, Huang M, Ji N, Zhang M. A micropeptide TREMP encoded by lincR-PPP2R5C promotes Th2 cell differentiation by interacting with PYCR1 in allergic airway inflammation. Allergol Int 2024:S1323-8930(24)00048-0. [PMID: 39025723 DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2024.04.004] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic asthma is largely dominated by Th2 lymphocytes. Micropeptides in Th2 cells and asthma remain unmasked. Here, we aimed to demonstrate a micropeptide, T-cell regulatory micropeptide (TREMP), in Th2 cell differentiation in asthma. METHODS TREMP translated from lincR-PPP2R5C was validated using Western blotting and mass spectrometry. TREMP knockout mice were generated using CRISPR/Cas9. Coimmunoprecipitation revealed that TREMP targeted pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase 1 (PYCR1), which was further explored in vitro and in vivo. The levels of TREMP and PYCR1 in Th2 cells from clinical samples were determined by flow cytometry. RESULTS TREMP, encoded by lincR-PPP2R5C, was in the mitochondrion. The lentivirus encoding TREMP promoted Th2 cell differentiation. In contrast, Th2 differentiation was suppressed in TREMP-/- CD4+ T cells. In the HDM-induced model of allergic airway inflammation, TREMP was increased in pulmonary tissues. Allergic airway inflammation was relieved in TREMP-/- mice treated with HDM. Mechanistically, TREMP interacted with PYCR1, which regulated Th2 differentiation via glycolysis. Glycolysis was decreased in Th2 cells from TREMP-/- mice and PYCR1-/- mice. Similar to TREMP-/- mice, allergic airway inflammation was mitigated in HDM-challenged PYCR1-/- mice. Moreover, we measured TREMP and PYCR1 in asthma patients. And we found that, compared with those in healthy controls, the levels of TREMP and PYCR1 in Th2 cells were significantly increased in asthmatic patients. CONCLUSIONS The micropeptide TREMP encoded by lincR-PPP2R5C promoted Th2 differentiation in allergic airway inflammation by interacting with PYCR1 and enhancing glycolysis. Our findings highlight the importance of neglected micropeptides from noncoding RNAs in allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengxia Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyu Jia
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Xishan People's Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi Branch of Zhongda Hospital Affiliate to Southeast University, Wuxi, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Yuan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tingting Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanan Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Zhongqi Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mao Huang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Ningfei Ji
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Mingshun Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Antibody Technique, Department of Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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Zhou P, Liu W, Ma J. Roles of Menin in T cell differentiation and function: Current knowledge and perspectives. Immunology 2024. [PMID: 39011567 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The commitment to specific T lymphocytes (T cell) lineages is governed by distinct transcription factors, whose expression is modulated through epigenetic mechanisms. Unravelling these epigenetic mechanisms that regulate T cell differentiation and function holds significant importance for understanding T cells. Menin, a multifunctional scaffolding protein, is implicated in various cellular processes, such as cell proliferation, cell cycle control, DNA repair and transcriptional regulation, primarily through epigenetic mechanisms. Existing research indicates Menin's impact on T cell differentiation and function, while a comprehensive and systematic review is currently lacking to consolidate these findings. In the current review, we have highlighted recent studies on the role of Menin in T cell differentiation and function, focusing mainly on its impact on the memory Th2 maintenance, Th17 differentiation and maintenance, CD4+ T cell senescence, and effector CD8+ T cell survival. Considering Menin's crucial function in maintaining effector T cell function, the potential of inhibiting Menin activity in mitigating inflammatory diseases associated with excessive T cell activation has also been emphasised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Zhou
- Department of Immunology, Eye Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Weiru Liu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jian Ma
- Department of Immunology, Eye Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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Sumida TS, Cheru NT, Hafler DA. The regulation and differentiation of regulatory T cells and their dysfunction in autoimmune diseases. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:503-517. [PMID: 38374298 PMCID: PMC11216899 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-00994-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
The discovery of FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells as a distinct cell lineage with a central role in regulating immune responses provided a deeper understanding of self-tolerance. The transcription factor FOXP3 serves a key role in Treg cell lineage determination and maintenance, but is not sufficient to enable the full potential of Treg cell suppression, indicating that other factors orchestrate the fine-tuning of Treg cell function. Moreover, FOXP3-independent mechanisms have recently been shown to contribute to Treg cell dysfunction. FOXP3 mutations in humans cause lethal fulminant systemic autoinflammation (IPEX syndrome). However, it remains unclear to what degree Treg cell dysfunction is contributing to the pathophysiology of common autoimmune diseases. In this Review, we discuss the origins of Treg cells in the periphery and the multilayered mechanisms by which Treg cells are induced, as well as the FOXP3-dependent and FOXP3-independent cellular programmes that maintain the suppressive function of Treg cells in humans and mice. Further, we examine evidence for Treg cell dysfunction in the context of common autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomokazu S Sumida
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Nardos T Cheru
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - David A Hafler
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Sudholz H, Schuster IS, Foroutan M, Sng X, Andoniou CE, Doan A, Camilleri T, Shen Z, Zaph C, Degli-Esposti MA, Huntington ND, Scheer S. DOT1L maintains NK cell phenotype and function for optimal tumor control. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114333. [PMID: 38865244 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114333] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Histone methyltransferases (HMTs) are crucial in gene regulation and function, yet their role in natural killer (NK) cell biology within the tumor microenvironment (TME) remains largely unknown. We demonstrate that the HMT DOT1L limits NK cell conversion to CD49a+ CD49b+ intILC1, a subset that can be observed in the TME in response to stimulation with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and is correlated with impaired tumor control. Deleting Dot1l in NKp46-expressing cells reveals its pivotal role in maintaining NK cell phenotype and function. Loss of DOT1L skews NK cells toward intILC1s even in the absence of TGF-β. Transcriptionally, DOT1L-null NK cells closely resemble intILC1s and ILC1s, correlating with altered NK cell responses and impaired solid tumor control. These findings deepen our understanding of NK cell biology and could inform approaches to prevent NK cell conversion to intILC1s in adoptive NK cell therapies for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison Sudholz
- Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Iona S Schuster
- Infection and Immunity Program and Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Momeneh Foroutan
- Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; oNKo-Innate Pty Ltd, Moonee Ponds, VIC 3039, Australia
| | - Xavier Sng
- Infection and Immunity Program and Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Christopher E Andoniou
- Infection and Immunity Program and Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Anh Doan
- Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Tania Camilleri
- Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Zihan Shen
- Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Colby Zaph
- Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Mariapia A Degli-Esposti
- Infection and Immunity Program and Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Nicholas D Huntington
- Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; oNKo-Innate Pty Ltd, Moonee Ponds, VIC 3039, Australia.
| | - Sebastian Scheer
- Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
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Kealy L, Runting J, Thiele D, Scheer S. An emerging maestro of immune regulation: how DOT1L orchestrates the harmonies of the immune system. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1385319. [PMID: 38962004 PMCID: PMC11219580 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1385319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The immune system comprises a complex yet tightly regulated network of cells and molecules that play a critical role in protecting the body from infection and disease. The activity and development of each immune cell is regulated in a myriad of ways including through the cytokine milieu, the availability of key receptors, via tailored intracellular signalling cascades, dedicated transcription factors and even by directly modulating gene accessibility and expression; the latter is more commonly known as epigenetic regulation. In recent years, epigenetic regulators have begun to emerge as key players involved in modulating the immune system. Among these, the lysine methyltransferase DOT1L has gained significant attention for its involvement in orchestrating immune cell formation and function. In this review we provide an overview of the role of DOT1L across the immune system and the implications of this role on health and disease. We begin by elucidating the general mechanisms of DOT1L-mediated histone methylation and its impact on gene expression within immune cells. Subsequently, we provide a detailed and comprehensive overview of recent studies that identify DOT1L as a crucial regulator of immune cell development, differentiation, and activation. Next, we discuss the potential mechanisms of DOT1L-mediated regulation of immune cell function and shed light on how DOT1L might be contributing to immune cell homeostasis and dysfunction. We then provide food for thought by highlighting some of the current obstacles and technical limitations precluding a more in-depth elucidation of DOT1L's role. Finally, we explore the potential therapeutic implications of targeting DOT1L in the context of immune-related diseases and discuss ongoing research efforts to this end. Overall, this review consolidates the current paradigm regarding DOT1L's role across the immune network and emphasises its critical role in governing the healthy immune system and its potential as a novel therapeutic target for immune-related diseases. A deeper understanding of DOT1L's immunomodulatory functions could pave the way for innovative therapeutic approaches which fine-tune the immune response to enhance or restore human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Kealy
- Immunity Program, The Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica Runting
- Immunity Program, The Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Daniel Thiele
- Immunity Program, The Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Sebastian Scheer
- Immunity Program, The Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
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Zhao Y, Zhang N, Perez Novo C, Wang Y, Zhang L. Decreased histone expression in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. Asia Pac Allergy 2024; 14:70-76. [PMID: 38827263 PMCID: PMC11142755 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.0000000000000140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Histones have been associated with human diseases. However, the implication of extranuclear histone proteins and their potential mechanism in the pathophysiology of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) have not been thoroughly investigated. This study was designed to evaluate the role of histones in patients with CRS by comparing histone expression between patients and controls. Methods Nasal polyp (NP) tissues were obtained, and their comprehensive gene expression profiles were investigated by microarray analysis. Differences in expression were verified by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical staining. Cell culture and flow cytometry were used to evaluate the role of histones in the pathogenesis of polyps. Results Significant differences in the microarray analysis were observed between the patient and control groups (P < 0.01). It was found by flow cytometry that the histone (H2BK) can promote cell apoptosis in NPs. Conclusion Our results indicate that reduced expression of H2BK may contribute to the imbalance process of cell proliferation and apoptosis in CRS with NP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanming Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Upper Airways Research Laboratory (URL), Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claudina Perez Novo
- Upper Airways Research Laboratory (URL), Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yang Wang
- Beijing key laboratory of nasal diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
| | - Luo Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing key laboratory of nasal diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
- Department of Allergy, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Mecca M, Picerno S, Cortellino S. The Killer's Web: Interconnection between Inflammation, Epigenetics and Nutrition in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2750. [PMID: 38473997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052750] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a key contributor to both the initiation and progression of tumors, and it can be triggered by genetic instability within tumors, as well as by lifestyle and dietary factors. The inflammatory response plays a critical role in the genetic and epigenetic reprogramming of tumor cells, as well as in the cells that comprise the tumor microenvironment. Cells in the microenvironment acquire a phenotype that promotes immune evasion, progression, and metastasis. We will review the mechanisms and pathways involved in the interaction between tumors, inflammation, and nutrition, the limitations of current therapies, and discuss potential future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisabel Mecca
- Laboratory of Preclinical and Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), 85028 Rionero in Vulture, PZ, Italy
| | - Simona Picerno
- Laboratory of Preclinical and Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), 85028 Rionero in Vulture, PZ, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cortellino
- Laboratory of Preclinical and Translational Research, Responsible Research Hospital, 86100 Campobasso, CB, Italy
- Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM), Clinical and Translational Oncology, 80138 Naples, NA, Italy
- S.H.R.O. Italia Foundation ETS, 10060 Candiolo, TO, Italy
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Falkowski L, Buddenkotte J, Datsi A. Epigenetics in T-cell driven inflammation and cancer. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 154:250-260. [PMID: 36641367 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
For decades, scientists have been investigating how processes such as gene expression, stem cell plasticity, and cell differentiation can be modulated. The discovery of epigenetics helped unravel these processes and enabled the identification of major underlying mechanisms that, for example, are central for T cell maturation. T cells go through various stages in their development evolving from progenitor cells into double positive CD4/CD8 T cells that finally leave the thymus as naïve T cells. One major mechanism driving T cell maturation is the modulation of gene activity by temporally sequenced transcription of spatially exposed gene loci. DNA methylation, demethylation, and acetylation are key processes that enable a sequenced gene expression required for T cell differentiation. In vivo, differentiated T cells are subjected to enormous pressures originating from the microenvironment. Signals from this environment, particularly from an inflammatory or a tumor microenvironment, can push T cells to differentiate into specific effector and memory T cells, and even prompt T cells to adopt a state of dysfunctional exhaustion, en route of an epigenetically controlled mechanism. Fundamentals of these processes will be discussed in this review highlighting potential therapeutic interventions, in particular those beneficial to revive exhausted T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Falkowski
- Institute for Transplantational Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Joerg Buddenkotte
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Angeliki Datsi
- Institute for Transplantational Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Wang B, Shen H, Wei Y, Liu F, Yang Y, Yu H, Fu J, Cui X, Yu T, Xu Y, Liu Y, Dong H, Shen F, Zhou W, Liu H, Chen Y, Wang H. Balance of Gata3 and Ramp2 in hepatocytes regulates hepatic vascular reconstitution in postoperative liver regeneration. J Hepatol 2024; 80:309-321. [PMID: 37918568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) leads to poor prognosis in patients undergoing hepatectomy, with hepatic vascular reconstitution playing a critical role. However, the regulators of hepatic vascular reconstitution remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of hepatic vascular reconstitution and identify biomarkers predicting PHLF in patients undergoing hepatectomy. METHODS Candidate genes that were associated with hepatic vascular reconstitution were screened using adeno-associated virus vectors in Alb-Cre-CRISPR/Cas9 mice subjected to partial hepatectomy. The biological activities of candidate genes were estimated using endothelial precursor transfusion and associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) models. The level of candidates was detected in biopsies from patients undergoing ALPPS. Risk factors for PHLF were also screened using retrospective data. RESULTS Downregulation of Gata3 and upregulation of Ramp2 in hepatocytes promoted the proliferation of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatic revascularization. Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) played opposite roles in regulating the migration of endothelial precursors from bone marrow and the formation of new sinusoids after hepatectomy. Gata3 restricted endothelial cell function in patient-derived hepatic organoids, which was abrogated by a Gata3 inhibitor. Moreover, overexpression of Gata3 led to higher mortality in ALPPS mice, which was improved by a PEDF-neutralizing antibody. The expression of Gata3/RAMP and PEDF/VEGFA tended to have a negative correlation in patients undergoing ALPPS. A nomogram incorporating multiple factors, such as serum PEDF/VEGF index, was constructed and could efficiently predict the risk of PHLF. CONCLUSIONS The balance of Gata3 and Ramp2 in hepatocytes regulates the proliferation of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatic revascularization via changes in the expression of PEDF and VEGFA, revealing potential targets for the prevention and treatment of PHLF. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS In this study, we show that the balance of Gata3 and Ramp2 in hepatocytes regulates hepatic vascular reconstitution by promoting a shift from pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) to vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) expression during hepatectomy- or ALLPS (associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy)-induced liver regeneration. We also identified serum PEDF/VEGFA index as a potential predictor of post-hepatectomy liver failure in patients who underwent hepatectomy. This study improves our understanding of how hepatocytes contribute to liver regeneration and provides new targets for the prevention and treatment of post-hepatectomy liver failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibo Wang
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China; Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medicine School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Shen
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yating Wei
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China; Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Fuchen Liu
- The Third Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Yang
- The Third Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Yu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Jing Fu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xiuliang Cui
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Ting Yu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China; Department of Hepatology, Fuling Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Xu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yitian Liu
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Hui Dong
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Feng Shen
- The Fourth Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiping Zhou
- The Third Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hui Liu
- The Third Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yao Chen
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Hongyang Wang
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory on Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University/NAVAL Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China; Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
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12
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Song C, Kim MY, Cho JY. The Role of Protein Methyltransferases in Immunity. Molecules 2024; 29:360. [PMID: 38257273 PMCID: PMC10819338 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020360] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The immune system protects our body from bacteria, viruses, and toxins and removes malignant cells. Activation of immune cells requires the onset of a network of important signaling proteins. Methylation of these proteins affects their structure and biological function. Under stimulation, T cells, B cells, and other immune cells undergo activation, development, proliferation, differentiation, and manufacture of cytokines and antibodies. Methyltransferases alter the above processes and lead to diverse outcomes depending on the degree and type of methylation. In the previous two decades, methyltransferases have been reported to mediate a great variety of immune stages. Elucidating the roles of methylation in immunity not only contributes to understanding the immune mechanism but is helpful in the development of new immunotherapeutic strategies. Hence, we review herein the studies on methylation in immunity, aiming to provide ideas for new approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoran Song
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea;
| | - Mi-Yeon Kim
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Youl Cho
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea;
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13
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Zhang L, Chai R, Tai Z, Miao F, Shi X, Chen Z, Zhu Q. Noval advance of histone modification in inflammatory skin diseases and related treatment methods. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1286776. [PMID: 38235133 PMCID: PMC10792063 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1286776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory skin diseases are a group of diseases caused by the disruption of skin tissue due to immune system disorders. Histone modification plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and treatment of chronic inflammatory skin diseases, encompassing a wide range of conditions, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, lupus, systemic sclerosis, contact dermatitis, lichen planus, and alopecia areata. Analyzing histone modification as a significant epigenetic regulatory approach holds great promise for advancing our understanding and managing these complex disorders. Additionally, therapeutic interventions targeting histone modifications have emerged as promising strategies for effectively managing inflammatory skin disorders. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the diverse types of histone modification. We discuss the intricate association between histone modification and prevalent chronic inflammatory skin diseases. We also review current and potential therapeutic approaches that revolve around modulating histone modifications. Finally, we investigated the prospects of research on histone modifications in the context of chronic inflammatory skin diseases, paving the way for innovative therapeutic interventions and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lichen Zhang
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of External Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rongrong Chai
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of External Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zongguang Tai
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of External Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fengze Miao
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of External Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinwei Shi
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of External Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of External Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Quangang Zhu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of External Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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14
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Liang Y, Wang L, Ma P, Ju D, Zhao M, Shi Y. Enhancing anti-tumor immune responses through combination therapies: epigenetic drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1308264. [PMID: 38077327 PMCID: PMC10704038 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1308264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are processes that affect gene expression and cellular functions without involving changes in the DNA sequence. This abnormal or unstable expression of genes regulated by epigenetics can trigger cancer and other various diseases. The immune cells involved in anti-tumor responses and the immunogenicity of tumors may also be affected by epigenomic changes. This holds significant implications for the development and application of cancer immunotherapy, epigenetic therapy, and their combined treatments in the fight against cancer. We provide an overview of recent research literature focusing on how epigenomic changes in immune cells influence immune cell behavior and function, as well as the immunogenicity of cancer cells. And the combined utilization of epigenetic medications with immune checkpoint inhibitors that focus on immune checkpoint molecules [e.g., Programmed Death 1 (PD-1), Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated Protein 4 (CTLA-4), T cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin Domain (TIM-3), Lymphocyte Activation Gene-3 (LAG-3)] present in immune cells and stromal cells associated with tumors. We highlight the potential of small-molecule inhibitors targeting epigenetic regulators to amplify anti-tumor immune responses. Moreover, we discuss how to leverage the intricate relationship between cancer epigenetics and cancer immunology to create treatment regimens that integrate epigenetic therapies with immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liang
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan Wuchang Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Peijun Ma
- Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongen Ju
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Minggao Zhao
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yun Shi
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA, United States
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15
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Khantakova JN, Sennikov SV. T-helper cells flexibility: the possibility of reprogramming T cells fate. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1284178. [PMID: 38022605 PMCID: PMC10646684 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1284178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Various disciplines cooperate to find novel approaches to cure impaired body functions by repairing, replacing, or regenerating cells, tissues, or organs. The possibility that a stable differentiated cell can reprogram itself opens the door to new therapeutic strategies against a multitude of diseases caused by the loss or dysfunction of essential, irreparable, and specific cells. One approach to cell therapy is to induce reprogramming of adult cells into other functionally active cells. Understanding the factors that cause or contribute to T cell plasticity is not only of clinical importance but also expands the knowledge of the factors that induce cells to differentiate and improves the understanding of normal developmental biology. The present review focuses on the advances in the conversion of peripheral CD4+ T cells, the conditions of their reprogramming, and the methods proposed to control such cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia N. Khantakova
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology” (RIFCI), Novosibirsk, Russia
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16
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Song Y, Jin S, Sun G, Gong Y. Cullin 4B-RING E3 ligase complex in immune cell differentiation and function. Cell Mol Immunol 2023; 20:1254-1256. [PMID: 37253945 PMCID: PMC10541864 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-023-01045-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Song
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Shiqi Jin
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Gongping Sun
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Yaoqin Gong
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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17
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Chen C, Shin JH, Fang Z, Brennan K, Horowitz NB, Pfaff KL, Welsh EL, Rodig SJ, Gevaert O, Gozani O, Uppaluri R, Sunwoo JB. Targeting KDM2A Enhances T-cell Infiltration in NSD1-Deficient Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2023; 83:2645-2655. [PMID: 37311054 PMCID: PMC10526980 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-3114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a significant proportion of tumors have inactivating mutations in the histone methyltransferase NSD1. In these tumors, NSD1 inactivation is a driver of T-cell exclusion from the tumor microenvironment (TME). A better understanding of the NSD1-mediated mechanism regulating infiltration of T cells into the TME could help identify approaches to overcome immunosuppression. Here, we demonstrated that NSD1 inactivation results in lower levels of H3K36 dimethylation and higher levels of H3K27 trimethylation, the latter being a known repressive histone mark enriched on the promoters of key T-cell chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10. HNSCC with NSD1 mutations had lower levels of these chemokines and lacked responses to PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade. Inhibition of KDM2A, the primary lysine demethylase that is selective for H3K36, reversed the altered histone marks induced by NSD1 loss and restored T-cell infiltration into the TME. Importantly, KDM2A suppression decreased growth of NSD1-deficient tumors in immunocompetent, but not in immunodeficient, mice. Together, these data indicate that KDM2A is an immunotherapeutic target for overcoming immune exclusion in HNSCC. SIGNIFICANCE The altered epigenetic landscape of NSD1-deficient tumors confers sensitivity to inhibition of the histone-modifying enzyme KDM2A as an immunotherapeutic strategy to stimulate T-cell infiltration and suppress tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - June Ho Shin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Zhuoqing Fang
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Kevin Brennan
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics) and Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Nina B. Horowitz
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Kathleen L. Pfaff
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Emma L. Welsh
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Scott J. Rodig
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Olivier Gevaert
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics) and Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Or Gozani
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Ravindra Uppaluri
- Division of Otolaryngology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - John B. Sunwoo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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18
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Wang W, Garcia C, Shao F, Cohen JA, Bai Y, Fine A, Ai X. Lung dopaminergic nerves facilitate the establishment of T H2 resident memory cells in early life. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 152:386-399. [PMID: 36841266 PMCID: PMC10440294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.02.011] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic asthma develops from allergen exposure in early childhood and progresses into adulthood. The central mediator of progressive allergic asthma is allergen-specific, TH2-resident memory cells (TRMs). Although the crosstalk between nerves and immune cells plays an established role in acute allergic inflammation, whether nerves facilitate the establishment of TH2-TRMs in the immature lung following early life allergen exposure is unknown. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to identify nerve-derived signals that act in TH2 effector cells to regulate the tissue residency in the immature lung. METHODS Following neonatal allergen exposure, allergen-specific TH2-TRMs were tracked temporally and spatially in relationship to developing sympathetic nerves in the lung. Functional mediators of dopamine signaling in the establishment of TH2-TRMs were identified by in vitro bulk RNA-sequencing of dopamine-treated TH2 cells followed by in vivo assessment of candidate genes using adoptive transfer of TH2 cells with viral gene knockdown. RESULTS This study found that sympathetic nerves produce dopamine and reside in proximity to TH2 effector cells during the contraction phase following neonatal allergen exposure. Dopamine signals via DRD4 on TH2 cells to elevate IL2RA and epigenetically facilitate type 2 cytokine expression. Blockade of dopamine-DRD4 signaling following neonatal allergen exposure impairs lung residence of TH2 cells and ameliorates anamnestic inflammation in adults. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that maturing sympathetic nerves enable a dopamine-enriched lung environment in early life that promotes the establishment of allergen-specific TH2-TRMs. The dopamine-DRD4 axis may provide a therapeutic target to modify allergic asthma progression from childhood to adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass.
| | - Carolyn Garcia
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Fengzhi Shao
- Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Mass
| | - Jonathan A Cohen
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Yan Bai
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Alan Fine
- Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Mass
| | - Xingbin Ai
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass.
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19
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Xiao C, Fan T, Zheng Y, Tian H, Deng Z, Liu J, Li C, He J. H3K4 trimethylation regulates cancer immunity: a promising therapeutic target in combination with immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e005693. [PMID: 37553181 PMCID: PMC10414074 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
With the advances in cancer immunity regulation and immunotherapy, the effects of histone modifications on establishing antitumor immunological ability are constantly being uncovered. Developing combination therapies involving epigenetic drugs (epi-drugs) and immune checkpoint blockades or chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapies are promising to improve the benefits of immunotherapy. Histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) is a pivotal epigenetic modification in cancer immunity regulation, deeply involved in modulating tumor immunogenicity, reshaping tumor immune microenvironment, and regulating immune cell functions. However, how to integrate these theoretical foundations to create novel H3K4 trimethylation-based therapeutic strategies and optimize available therapies remains uncertain. In this review, we delineate the mechanisms by which H3K4me3 and its modifiers regulate antitumor immunity, and explore the therapeutic potential of the H3K4me3-related agents combined with immunotherapies. Understanding the role of H3K4me3 in cancer immunity will be instrumental in developing novel epigenetic therapies and advancing immunotherapy-based combination regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yujia Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - He Tian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ziqin Deng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxiang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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20
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Rondeaux J, Groussard D, Renet S, Tardif V, Dumesnil A, Chu A, Di Maria L, Lemarcis T, Valet M, Henry JP, Badji Z, Vézier C, Béziau-Gasnier D, Neele AE, de Winther MPJ, Guerrot D, Brand M, Richard V, Durand E, Brakenhielm E, Fraineau S. Ezh2 emerges as an epigenetic checkpoint regulator during monocyte differentiation limiting cardiac dysfunction post-MI. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4461. [PMID: 37491334 PMCID: PMC10368741 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40186-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation of histone H3K27 methylation has recently emerged as a key step during alternative immunoregulatory M2-like macrophage polarization; known to impact cardiac repair after Myocardial Infarction (MI). We hypothesized that EZH2, responsible for H3K27 methylation, could act as an epigenetic checkpoint regulator during this process. We demonstrate for the first time an ectopic EZH2, and putative, cytoplasmic inactive localization of the epigenetic enzyme, during monocyte differentiation into M2 macrophages in vitro as well as in immunomodulatory cardiac macrophages in vivo in the post-MI acute inflammatory phase. Moreover, we show that pharmacological EZH2 inhibition, with GSK-343, resolves H3K27 methylation of bivalent gene promoters, thus enhancing their expression to promote human monocyte repair functions. In line with this protective effect, GSK-343 treatment accelerated cardiac inflammatory resolution preventing infarct expansion and subsequent cardiac dysfunction in female mice post-MI in vivo. In conclusion, our study reveals that pharmacological epigenetic modulation of cardiac-infiltrating immune cells may hold promise to limit adverse cardiac remodeling after MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Rondeaux
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | | | - Sylvanie Renet
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Virginie Tardif
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Anaïs Dumesnil
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Alphonse Chu
- Sprott Center for Stem Cell Research, Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, General Hospital, Mailbox 511, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H8L6, Canada
| | - Léa Di Maria
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Théo Lemarcis
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Manon Valet
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Jean-Paul Henry
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Zina Badji
- CHU Rouen, Department of Cardiology, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Claire Vézier
- CHU Rouen, Department of Cardiology, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | | | - Annette E Neele
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Menno P J de Winther
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Dominique Guerrot
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, CHU Rouen, Department of Nephrology, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Marjorie Brand
- Sprott Center for Stem Cell Research, Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, General Hospital, Mailbox 511, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H8L6, Canada
| | - Vincent Richard
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, CHU Rouen, Department of Pharmacology, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Eric Durand
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, CHU Rouen, Department of Cardiology, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Ebba Brakenhielm
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France
| | - Sylvain Fraineau
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Inserm EnVI UMR 1096, F-76000, Rouen, France.
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Jensen M, Chandrasekaran V, García-Bonete MJ, Li S, Anindya AL, Andersson K, Erlandsson MC, Oparina NY, Burmann BM, Brath U, Panchenko AR, Bokarewa I. M, Katona G. Survivin prevents the polycomb repressor complex 2 from methylating histone 3 lysine 27. iScience 2023; 26:106976. [PMID: 37534134 PMCID: PMC10391610 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the role of survivin in epigenetic control of gene transcription through interaction with the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). PRC2 is responsible for silencing gene expression by trimethylating lysine 27 on histone 3. We observed differential expression of PRC2 subunits in CD4+ T cells with varying levels of survivin expression, and ChIP-seq results indicated that survivin colocalizes with PRC2 along DNA. Inhibition of survivin resulted in a significant increase in H3K27 trimethylation, implying that survivin prevents PRC2 from functioning. Peptide microarray showed that survivin interacts with peptides from PRC2 subunits, and machine learning revealed that amino acid composition contains relevant information for predicting survivin interaction. NMR and BLI experiments supported the interaction of survivin with PRC2 subunit EZH2. Finally, protein-protein docking revealed that the survivin-EZH2 interaction interface overlaps with catalytic residues of EZH2, potentially inhibiting its H3K27 methylation activity. These findings suggest that survivin inhibits PRC2 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Jensen
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Gothenburg, Box 462, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Venkataragavan Chandrasekaran
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Box 480, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - María-José García-Bonete
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Box 440, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Shuxiang Li
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Atsarina Larasati Anindya
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Gothenburg, Box 462, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Karin Andersson
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Box 480, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Malin C. Erlandsson
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Box 480, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Nina Y. Oparina
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Box 480, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Björn M. Burmann
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Gothenburg, Box 462, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Brath
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology and the Swedish NMR Centre, University of Gothenburg, 412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna R. Panchenko
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Maria Bokarewa I.
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Box 480, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Rheumatology Clinic, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gröna stråket 16, 41346 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gergely Katona
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Gothenburg, Box 462, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
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22
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Deng J, Zhao HJ, Zhong Y, Hu C, Meng J, Wang C, Lan X, Wang X, Chen ZJ, Yan J, Wang W, Li Y. H3K27me3-modulated Hofbauer cell BMP2 signalling enhancement compensates for shallow trophoblast invasion in preeclampsia. EBioMedicine 2023; 93:104664. [PMID: 37331163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia (PE) is a common hypertensive pregnancy disorder associated with shallow trophoblast invasion. Although bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) has been shown to promote trophoblast invasion in vitro, its cellular origin and molecular regulation in placenta, as well as its potential role in PE, has yet to be established. Additionally, whether BMP2 and/or its downstream molecules could serve as potential diagnostic or therapeutic targets for PE has not been explored. METHODS Placentas and sera from PE and healthy pregnant women were subjected to multi-omics analyses, immunoblots, qPCR, and ELISA assays. Immortalized trophoblast cells, primary cultures of human trophoblasts, and first-trimester villous explants were used for in vitro experiments. Adenovirus expressing sFlt-1 (Ad Flt1)-induced PE rat model was used for in vivo studies. FINDINGS We find globally decreased H3K27me3 modifications and increased BMP2 signalling in preeclamptic placentas, which is negatively correlated with clinical manifestations. BMP2 is derived from Hofbauer cells and epigenetically regulated by H3K27me3 modification. BMP2 promotes trophoblast invasion and vascular mimicry by upregulating BMP6 via BMPR1A-SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signalling. BMP2 supplementation alleviates high blood pressure and fetal growth restriction phenotypes in Ad Flt1-induced rat PE model. INTERPRETATION Our findings demonstrate that epigenetically regulated Hofbauer cell-derived BMP2 signalling enhancement in late gestation could serve as a compensatory response for shallow trophoblast invasion in PE, suggesting opportunities for diagnostic marker and therapeutic target applications in PE clinical management. FUNDING National Key Research and Development Program of China (2022YFC2702400), National Natural Science Foundation of China (82101784, 82171648, 31988101), and Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province (ZR2020QH051, ZR2020MH039).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianye Deng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Hong-Jin Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China; Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Ying Zhong
- Cardiovascular Research Center of the General Medical Services, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Cuiping Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Jinlai Meng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Chunling Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiangxin Lan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiyao Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Wei Wang
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Yan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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23
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Guo R, Li J, Hu J, Fu Q, Yan Y, Xu S, Wang X, Jiao F. Combination of epidrugs with immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer immunotherapy: From theory to therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 120:110417. [PMID: 37276826 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized treatment strategies in multiple types of cancer. However, the resistance and relapse as associated with the extreme complexity of cancer-immunity interactions remain a major challenge to be resolved. Owing to the epigenome plasticity of cancer and immune cells, a growing body of evidence has been presented indicating that epigenetic treatments have the potential to overcome current limitations of immunotherapy, thus providing a rationalefor the combination of ICIs with epigenetic agents (epidrugs). In this review, we first make an overview about the epigenetic regulations in tumor biology and immunodevelopment. Subsequently, a diverse array of inhibitory agents under investigations targeted epigenetic modulators (Azacitidine, Decitabine, Vorinostat, Romidepsin, Belinostat, Panobinostat, Tazemetostat, Enasidenib and Ivosidenib, etc.) and immune checkpoints (Atezolizmab, Avelumab, Cemiplimab, Durvalumb, Ipilimumab, Nivolumab and Pembrolizmab, etc.) to increase anticancer responses were described and the potential mechanisms were further discussed. Finally, we summarize the findings of clinical trials and provide a perspective for future clinical studies directed at investigating the combination of epidrugs with ICIs as a treatment for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jixia Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jinxia Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Qiang Fu
- School of Pharmacology, Institute of Aging Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Yunfei Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Sen Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory & Health Service Training, 970 Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Yantai 264002, PR China.
| | - Fei Jiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China.
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Fan J, Han Y, Sun H, Sun S, Wang Y, Guo R, Guo J, Tian X, Wang J, Wang J. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomal microRNA-367–3p alleviates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis via inhibition of microglial ferroptosis by targeting EZH2. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114593. [PMID: 37001184 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system. Accumulating evidence has underscored the therapeutic potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs)-derived exosomes (BMSC-Exos) containing bioactive compounds in MS. Herein, the current study sought to characterize the mechanism of BMSC-Exos harboring miR-367-3p both in BV2 microglia by Erastin-induced ferroptosis and in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a typical animal model of MS. Exosomes were firstly isolated from BMSCs and identified for further use. BV2 microglia were co-cultured with miR-367-3p-containing BMSC-Exos, followed by an assessment of cell ferroptosis. Mechanistic exploration was furthered by the interaction of miR-367-3p and its downstream regulators. Lastly, BMSC-Exos harboring miR-367-3p were injected into EAE mice for in vivo validation. BMSC-Exos carrying miR-367-3p restrained microglial ferroptosis in vitro. Mechanistically, miR-367-3p could bind to Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and restrain EZH2 expression, leading to the over-expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11). Meanwhile, over-expression of SLC7A11 resulted in Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4) activation and ferroptosis suppression. Ectopic expression of EZH2 in vitro negated the protective effects of BMSC-Exos. Furthermore, BMSC-Exos containing miR-367-3p relieved the severity of EAE by suppressing ferroptosis and restraining EZH2 expression in vivo. Collectively, our findings suggest that BMSC-Exos carrying miR-367-3p brings about a significant decline in microglia ferroptosis by repressing EZH2 and alleviating the severity of EAE in vivo, suggesting a possible role of miR-367-3p overexpression in the treatment strategy of EAE. AVAILABILITY OF DATA AND MATERIALS: The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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25
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Qin L, Song Y, Zhang F, Wang R, Zhou L, Jin S, Chen C, Li C, Wang M, Jiang B, Sun G, Ma C, Gong Y, Li P. CRL4B complex-mediated H2AK119 monoubiquitination restrains Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:1488-1502. [PMID: 37024604 PMCID: PMC10244459 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01155-8] [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: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
CD4+ T helper (Th) cell differentiation is regulated by lineage-specific expression of transcription factors, which is tightly associated with epigenetic modifications, including histone acetylation and methylation. However, the factors regulating histone modifications involved in Th cell differentiation remain largely unknown. We herein demonstrated a critical role of Cullin 4B (CUL4B) in restricting Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation. CUL4B, which is assembled into the CUL4B-RING E3 ligase (CRL4B) complex, participates in various physiological and developmental processes through epigenetic repression of transcription. Depletion of Cul4b in CD4+ T cells enhanced Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation. In vivo, an aggravated Th2 response caused by the absence of CUL4B was observed in a murine asthma model. Mechanistically, the CRL4B complex promoted monoubiquitination at H2AK119 (H2AK119ub1) and polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2)-mediated trimethylation at H3K27 (H3K27me3) at Tbx21 and Maf and consequently repressed their expression during Th cell differentiation. Our study suggests that CRL4B complex-mediated H2AK119ub1 deposition functions to prevent the aberrant expression of Th1 and Th2 lineage-specific genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Qin
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yu Song
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Ru Wang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shiqi Jin
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Chaojia Chen
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Chunyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Molin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Baichun Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Gongping Sun
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Chunhong Ma
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yaoqin Gong
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Peishan Li
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Institutes for Translational Medicine, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu, China.
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26
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Wozniak M, Czyz M. lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction as promising therapeutic target in cutaneous melanoma. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1170026. [PMID: 37325482 PMCID: PMC10265524 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1170026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer with increasing incidence worldwide. Despite a great improvement of diagnostics and treatment of melanoma patients, this disease is still a serious clinical problem. Therefore, novel druggable targets are in focus of research. EZH2 is a component of the PRC2 protein complex that mediates epigenetic silencing of target genes. Several mutations activating EZH2 have been identified in melanoma, which contributes to aberrant gene silencing during tumor progression. Emerging evidence indicates that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are molecular "address codes" for EZH2 silencing specificity, and targeting lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction may slow down the progression of many solid cancers, including melanoma. This review summarizes current knowledge regarding the involvement of lncRNAs in EZH2-mediated gene silencing in melanoma. The possibility of blocking lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction in melanoma as a novel therapeutic option and plausible controversies and drawbacks of this approach are also briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Wozniak
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Czyz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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27
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Yang J, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Yu X, Shi S. Epigenetic regulation in the tumor microenvironment: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:210. [PMID: 37217462 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01480-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Over decades, researchers have focused on the epigenetic control of DNA-templated processes. Histone modification, DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, RNA modification, and noncoding RNAs modulate many biological processes that are crucial to the development of cancers. Dysregulation of the epigenome drives aberrant transcriptional programs. A growing body of evidence suggests that the mechanisms of epigenetic modification are dysregulated in human cancers and might be excellent targets for tumor treatment. Epigenetics has also been shown to influence tumor immunogenicity and immune cells involved in antitumor responses. Thus, the development and application of epigenetic therapy and cancer immunotherapy and their combinations may have important implications for cancer treatment. Here, we present an up-to-date and thorough description of how epigenetic modifications in tumor cells influence immune cell responses in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and how epigenetics influence immune cells internally to modify the TME. Additionally, we highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic regulators for cancer immunotherapy. Harnessing the complex interplay between epigenetics and cancer immunology to develop therapeutics that combine thereof is challenging but could yield significant benefits. The purpose of this review is to assist researchers in understanding how epigenetics impact immune responses in the TME, so that better cancer immunotherapies can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Chandnani N, Choudhari VS, Talukdar R, Rakshit S, Shanmugam G, Guchait S, Gupta I, George M, Sarkar K. Depletion of enhancer zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) directs transcription factors associated with T cell differentiation through epigenetic regulation of Yin Yang 1(YY1) in combating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Med Oncol 2023; 40:185. [PMID: 37212947 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02053-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of death in all countries alike. In the current study, we have found out that Histone H3Lys4trimethylation is abnormal on YY1 in CD4+T Helper (TH) cells of NSCLC patients which is evident by Histone H3Lys27 trimethylation mediated via EZH2. We investigated the status of Yin Yang 1 (YY1) and the involvement of certain transcription factors that lead to tumorigenesis after depleting endogenous EZH2 in vitro by CRISPR/Cas9 in the CD4+TH1-or-TH2-polarized cells isolated initially as CD4+TH0 cells from the PBMC of the control subjects and patients suffering from NSCLC. After depletion of endogenous EZH2, RT-qPCR based mRNA expression analysis showed that there was an increase in the expression of TH1 specific genes and a decrease in the expression of TH2 specific genes in NSCLC patients CD4+TH cells. We can conclude that this group of NSCLC patients may have the tendency at least in vitro to elucidate adaptive/protective immunity through the depletion of endogenous EZH2 along with the reduction in the expression of YY1. Moreover, depletion of EZH2 not only suppressed the CD4+CD25+FOXP3+Regulatory T cells (Treg) but also it aided the generation of CD8+Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTL) which were involved in killing of the NSCLC cells. Thus the transcription factors involved in EZH2 mediated T cell differentiation linked to malignancies offers us an appealing avenue of targeted therapeutic intervention for NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Chandnani
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vedika Shrirang Choudhari
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rajat Talukdar
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sudeshna Rakshit
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Geetha Shanmugam
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shiuli Guchait
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ishika Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Melvin George
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Koustav Sarkar
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Murakami Y, Fahmy S, Goldblum RM, Watson CS, Midoro-Horiuti T. Environmental estrogen exposures alter molecular signaling in immune cells that promote the development of childhood asthma. Mol Immunol 2023; 157:142-145. [PMID: 37023493 PMCID: PMC10149617 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2023.03.023] [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: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Environmental estrogens (EEs) are associated with an increased prevalence of asthma. These epigenetic alterations of the immune cells may explain the multigenerational effects on asthma development. We hypothesized that exposure to immune cells enhances allergic sensitization by initiating signaling in these cells. Human T cell lines (TIB-152, CCL-119) were exposed to varying concentrations of estradiol, bisphenol A, bisphenol S, or bisphenol A + estradiol. H3K27me3, phosphorylations of EZH2 (pEZH2), AKT (pAKT), and phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (pPI3K) were assessed. pAKT and pPI3K were decreased in response to some of the concentrations of these exposures in both cell lines. It is likely that EEs exposure to immune cells is one of the factors in the increase in the prevalence of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Murakami
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-0372, USA
| | - Sahar Fahmy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-0372, USA
| | - Randall M Goldblum
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-0372, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-0645, USA
| | - Cheryl S Watson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-0645, USA
| | - Terumi Midoro-Horiuti
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-0372, USA.
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Epigenetic Perspective of Immunotherapy for Cancers. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030365. [PMID: 36766706 PMCID: PMC9913322 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has brought new hope for cancer patients in recent times. However, despite the promising success of immunotherapy, there is still a need to address major challenges including heterogeneity in response among patients, the reoccurrence of the disease, and iRAEs (immune-related adverse effects). The first critical step towards solving these issues is understanding the epigenomic events that play a significant role in the regulation of specific biomolecules in the context of the immune population present in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) during various treatments and responses. A prominent advantage of this step is that it would enable researchers to harness the reversibility of epigenetic modifications for their druggability. Therefore, we reviewed the crucial studies in which varying epigenomic events were captured with immuno-oncology set-ups. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic possibilities of their utilization for the betterment of immunotherapy in terms of diagnosis, progression, and cure for cancer patients.
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EZH2: An Accomplice of Gastric Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020425. [PMID: 36672374 PMCID: PMC9856299 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Understanding the factors influencing the therapeutic effects in gastric cancer patients and the molecular mechanism behind gastric cancer is still facing challenges. In addition to genetic alterations and environmental factors, it has been demonstrated that epigenetic mechanisms can also induce the occurrence and progression of gastric cancer. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is the catalytic subunit of the polycomb repressor complex 2 (PRC2), which trimethylates histone 3 at Lys-27 and regulates the expression of downstream target genes through epigenetic mechanisms. It has been found that EZH2 is overexpressed in the stomach, which promotes the progression of gastric cancer through multiple pathways. In addition, targeted inhibition of EZH2 expression can effectively delay the progression of gastric cancer and improve its resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. Given the many effects of EZH2 in gastric cancer, there are no studies to comprehensively describe this mechanism. Therefore, in this review, we first introduce EZH2 and clarify the mechanisms of abnormal expression of EZH2 in cancer. Secondly, we summarize the role of EZH2 in gastric cancer, which includes the association of the EZH2 gene with genetic susceptibility to GC, the correlation of the EZH2 gene with gastric carcinogenesis and invasive metastasis, the resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs of gastric cancer mediated by EZH2 and the high expression of EZH2 leading to poor prognosis of gastric cancer patients. Finally, we also clarify some of the current statuses of drug development regarding targeted inhibition of EZH2/PRC2 activity.
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Targeting Epigenetic Mechanisms: A Boon for Cancer Immunotherapy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11010169. [PMID: 36672677 PMCID: PMC9855697 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is rapidly emerging as a promising approach against cancer. In the last decade, various immunological mechanisms have been targeted to induce an increase in the immune response against cancer cells. However, despite promising results, many patients show partial response, resistance, or serious toxicities. A promising way to overcome this is the use of immunotherapeutic approaches, in combination with other potential therapeutic approaches. Aberrant epigenetic modifications play an important role in carcinogenesis and its progression, as well as in the functioning of immune cells. Thus, therapeutic approaches targeting aberrant epigenetic mechanisms and the immune response might provide an effective antitumor effect. Further, the recent development of potent epigenetic drugs and immunomodulators gives hope to this combinatorial approach. In this review, we summarize the synergy mechanism between epigenetic therapies and immunotherapy for the treatment of cancer, and discuss recent advancements in the translation of this approach.
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Guan R, Mei J, Guo R. Analysis of the Prognosis Prediction Ability of a Necroptosis-Related Gene Signature and its Relationship With the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immune Microenvironment Using Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Validation. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2023; 22:15330338231182208. [PMID: 37335078 DOI: 10.1177/15330338231182208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most malignant cancers and has a poor prognosis. The immune microenvironment is closely related to the drug sensitivity of a tumor. Necroptosis was reported to be a key factor for HCC. The prognostic value of necroptosis-related genes and their association with the tumor immune microenvironment are still unknown. Methods: Necroptosis-related genes that could comprise a signature for predicting the prognosis of HCC cases were identified using univariate analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analysis. The association between this prognosis prediction signature and HCC immune microenvironment was analyzed. The immunological activities and drug sensitivities were compared between different risk score groups identified using the prognosis prediction signature. The expression levels of the five genes comprising the signature were validated using RT-qPCR. Results: A prognosis prediction signature consisting of five necroptosis-related genes was constructed and validated. Its risk score was = (0.1634 × PGAM5 expression) + (0.0134 × CXCL1 expression) - (0.1007 × ALDH2 expression) + (0.2351 × EZH2 expression) - (0.0564 × NDRG2 expression). The signature was found to be significantly associated with the infiltration of B cells, CD4+ T cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and myeloid dendritic cells into the HCC immune microenvironment. The number of infiltrating immune cells and the expression levels of immune checkpoints in the immune microenvironment of high-risk score patients were higher. Sorafenib and immune checkpoint blockade were determined to be ideally suited for treating high-risk score patients and low-risk score patients, respectively. Finally, RT-qPCR results confirmed that the expression levels of EZH2, NDRG2, and ALDH2 were significantly down-regulated in HuH7 and HepG2 cells compared to those in LO2 cells. Conclusion: The necroptosis-related gene signature developed herein can classify patients with HCC according to prognosis risk well and is associated with infiltration of immune cells into the tumor immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renguo Guan
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Mei
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongping Guo
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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Wang X, Liu S, Yu J. Multi-lineage Differentiation from Hematopoietic Stem Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1442:159-175. [PMID: 38228964 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-7471-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) have the ability to differentiate and give rise to all mature blood cells. Commitment to differentiation progressively limits the self-renewal potential of the original HSCs by regulating the level of lineage-specific gene expression. In this review, we will summarize the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying HSC differentiation toward erythroid, myeloid, and lymphocyte lineages. Moreover, we will decipher how the single-cell technologies advance the lineage-biased HSC subpopulations and their differentiation potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshuang Wang
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences / Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- The Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences / Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, China.
| | - Siqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences / Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences / Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- The Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences / Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, China.
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35
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Wang Y, Bui T, Zhang Y. The pleiotropic roles of EZH2 in T-cell immunity and immunotherapy. Int J Hematol 2022; 116:837-845. [PMID: 36271224 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-022-03466-x] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
EZH2 is a histone methyltransferase. It catalyzes trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3) to control gene transcription critical for cell proliferation, differentiation, expansion, and function. For instance, EZH2 plays a central role in regulating T-cell immune responses. EZH2 restrains terminal differentiation of effector CD8 T cells, promotes formation of precursor and mature memory CD8 T cells, regulates appropriate lineage-specification and identity maintenance of helper CD4 T cells, and maintains survival of differentiated antigen-specific T cells. Most importantly, EZH2 is shown to be important for reinvigoration of exhausted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Dysregulated EZH2 function has been linked to many forms of cancer, including lymphomas and solid tumors. In B-cell lymphoid malignancies, EZH2 is overexpressed to drive tumorigenesis. These specific effects of EZH2, in the context of its roles in catalyzing H3K27me3 and orchestrating gene transcription programs in both normal and malignant cells, establishes EZH2 as a unique target for drug development. Here, we will discuss Ezh2 regulation of T-cell immunity, EZH2-mediated lymphomagenesis, and therapeutic benefits of EZH2 inhibitors to the treatment of lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Center for Discovery & Innovation, Hackensack University Medical Center, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Tien Bui
- Center for Discovery & Innovation, Hackensack University Medical Center, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Yi Zhang
- Center for Discovery & Innovation, Hackensack University Medical Center, Nutley, NJ, USA.
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36
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Alshahrani SH, Ibrahim YS, Jalil AT, Altoum AA, Achmad H, Zabibah RS, Gabr GA, Ramírez-Coronel AA, Alameri AA, Qasim QA, Karampoor S, Mirzaei R. Metabolic reprogramming by miRNAs in the tumor microenvironment: Focused on immunometabolism. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1042196. [PMID: 36483029 PMCID: PMC9723351 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1042196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as a significant modulator of immunity, and their abnormal expression/activity has been linked to numerous human disorders, such as cancer. It is now known that miRNAs potentially modulate the production of several metabolic processes in tumor-associated immune cells and indirectly via different metabolic enzymes that affect tumor-associated signaling cascades. For instance, Let-7 has been identified as a crucial modulator for the long-lasting survival of CD8+ T cells (naive phenotypes) in cancer by altering their metabolism. Furthermore, in T cells, it has been found that enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) expression is controlled via glycolytic metabolism through miRNAs in patients with ovarian cancer. On the other hand, immunometabolism has shown us that cellular metabolic reactions and processes not only generate ATP and biosynthetic intermediates but also modulate the immune system and inflammatory processes. Based on recent studies, new and encouraging approaches to cancer involving the modification of miRNAs in immune cell metabolism are currently being investigated, providing insight into promising targets for therapeutic strategies based on the pivotal role of immunometabolism in cancer. Throughout this overview, we explore and describe the significance of miRNAs in cancer and immune cell metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadia Hamoud Alshahrani
- Medical Surgical Nursing Department, King Khalid University, Almahala, Khamis Mushate, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yousif Saleh Ibrahim
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-maarif University College, Ramadi, Al-Anbar, Iraq
| | - Abduladheem Turki Jalil
- Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Hilla, Iraq
| | - Abdelgadir Alamin Altoum
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Harun Achmad
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Rahman S. Zabibah
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Gamal A. Gabr
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
- Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute (AGERI), Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Andrés Alexis Ramírez-Coronel
- Health and Behavior Research Group (HBR), Catholic University of Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
- Laboratory of Psychometry and Ethology, Catholic University of Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Research Group, Universidad CES, Medellin, Colombia
| | | | | | - Sajad Karampoor
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasoul Mirzaei
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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37
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Huang R, Wu Y, Zou Z. Combining EZH2 inhibitors with other therapies for solid tumors: more choices for better effects. Epigenomics 2022; 14:1449-1464. [PMID: 36601794 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2022-0320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2 is an epigenetic regulator that methylates lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27) and is closely related to the development and metastasis of tumors. It often shows gain-of-function mutations in hematological tumors, while it is often overexpressed in solid tumors. EZH2 inhibitors have shown good efficacy in hematological tumors in clinical trials but poor efficacy in solid tumors. Therefore, current research on EZH2 inhibitors has focused on exploring additional combination strategies in solid tumors. Herein we summarize the combinations and mechanisms of EZH2 inhibitors and other therapies, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and epigenetic therapy, both in clinical trials and preclinical studies, aiming to provide a reference for better antitumor effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Huang
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yirong Wu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Zhengyun Zou
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
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38
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Yang Y, Liu K, Liu M, Zhang H, Guo M. EZH2: Its regulation and roles in immune disturbance of SLE. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1002741. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1002741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is related to immune homeostasis imbalance. Epigenetic mechanisms have played a significant role in breaking immune tolerance. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the specific methylation transferase of lysine at position 27 of histone 3, is currently found to participate in the pathogenesis of SLE through affecting multiple components of the immune system. This review mainly expounds the mechanisms underlying EZH2-mediated disruption of immune homeostasis in SLE patients, hoping to provide new ideas in the pathogenesis of SLE and new targets for future treatment.
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39
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Li T. The functions of polycomb group proteins in T cells. CELL INSIGHT 2022; 1:100048. [PMID: 37193554 PMCID: PMC10120301 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2022.100048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
T cells are involved in many aspects of adaptive immunity, including autoimmunity, anti-tumor activity, and responses to allergenic substances and pathogens. T cells undergo comprehensive epigenome remodeling in response to signals. Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are a well-studied complex of chromatin regulators, conserved in animals, and function in various biological processes. PcG proteins are divided into two distinct complexes: PRC1 (Polycomb repressive complex 1) and PRC2. PcG is correlated with the regulation of T cell development, phenotypic transformation, and function. In contrast, PcG dysregulation is correlated with pathogenesis of immune-mediated diseases and compromised anti-tumor responses. This review discusses recent findings on the involvement of PcG proteins in T cell maturation, differentiation, and activation. In addition, we explore implications in the development of the immune system diseases and cancer immunity, which offers promising targets for various treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin, 300070, China
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40
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Van Roy Z, Kielian T. Exploring epigenetic reprogramming during central nervous system infection. Immunol Rev 2022; 311:112-129. [PMID: 35481573 PMCID: PMC9790395 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics involves the study of various modes of adaptable transcriptional regulation, contributing to cell identity, characteristics, and function. During central nervous system (CNS) infection, epigenetic mechanisms can exert pronounced control over the maturation and antimicrobial properties of nearly every immune cell type. Epigenetics is a relatively new field, with the first mention of these marks proposed only a half-century ago and a substantial body of immunological epigenetic research emerging only in the last few decades. Here, we review the best-characterized epigenetic marks and their functions as well as illustrate how various immune cell populations responding to CNS infection utilize these marks to organize their activation state and inflammatory processes. We also discuss the metabolic and clinical implications of epigenetic marks and the rapidly expanding set of tools available to researchers that are enabling elucidation of increasingly detailed genetic regulatory pathways. These considerations paint an intricate picture of inflammatory regulation, where epigenetic marks influence genetic, signaling, and environmental elements to orchestrate a tailored immunological response to the threat at hand, cementing epigenetics as an important player in immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Van Roy
- Department of Pathology and MicrobiologyUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Department of Pathology and MicrobiologyUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNebraskaUSA
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41
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Yan J, Chen Y, Patel AJ, Warda S, Lee CJ, Nixon BG, Wong EW, Miranda-Román MA, Yang N, Wang Y, Pachai MR, Sher J, Giff E, Tang F, Khurana E, Singer S, Liu Y, Galbo PM, Maag JL, Koche RP, Zheng D, Antonescu CR, Deng L, Li MO, Chen Y, Chi P. Tumor-intrinsic PRC2 inactivation drives a context-dependent immune-desert microenvironment and is sensitized by immunogenic viruses. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e153437. [PMID: 35852856 PMCID: PMC9433107 DOI: 10.1172/jci153437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has demonstrated clinical success in "inflamed" tumors with substantial T cell infiltrates, but tumors with an immune-desert tumor microenvironment (TME) fail to benefit. The tumor cell-intrinsic molecular mechanisms of the immune-desert phenotype remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that inactivation of the polycomb-repressive complex 2 (PRC2) core components embryonic ectoderm development (EED) or suppressor of zeste 12 homolog (SUZ12), a prevalent genetic event in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) and sporadically in other cancers, drove a context-dependent immune-desert TME. PRC2 inactivation reprogramed the chromatin landscape that led to a cell-autonomous shift from primed baseline signaling-dependent cellular responses (e.g., IFN-γ signaling) to PRC2-regulated developmental and cellular differentiation transcriptional programs. Further, PRC2 inactivation led to diminished tumor immune infiltrates through reduced chemokine production and impaired antigen presentation and T cell priming, resulting in primary resistance to ICB. Intratumoral delivery of inactivated modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) enhanced tumor immune infiltrates and sensitized PRC2-loss tumors to ICB. Our results identify molecular mechanisms of PRC2 inactivation-mediated, context-dependent epigenetic reprogramming that underline the immune-desert phenotype in cancer. Our studies also point to intratumoral delivery of immunogenic viruses as an initial therapeutic strategy to modulate the immune-desert TME and capitalize on the clinical benefit of ICB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yan
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yuedan Chen
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Amish J. Patel
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sarah Warda
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Cindy J. Lee
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Briana G. Nixon
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute
| | - Elissa W.P. Wong
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Miguel A. Miranda-Román
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, and
| | - Ning Yang
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yi Wang
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mohini R. Pachai
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jessica Sher
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Emily Giff
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Fanying Tang
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine
- Meyer Cancer Center, and
| | - Ekta Khurana
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine
- Meyer Cancer Center, and
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sam Singer
- Department of Surgery, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Phillip M. Galbo
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Jesper L.V. Maag
- Center for Epigenetics Research, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Richard P. Koche
- Center for Epigenetics Research, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Deyou Zheng
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, and
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | - Liang Deng
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ming O. Li
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute
- Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, and
| | - Yu Chen
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ping Chi
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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42
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Zhu S, Liu M, Zhu F, Yu X, Wen J, Li C. Targeting EZH2 prevents the occurrence and mitigates the development of Sjögren's syndrome in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 110:109073. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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43
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Liotti A, Ferrara AL, Loffredo S, Galdiero MR, Varricchi G, Di Rella F, Maniscalco GT, Belardo M, Vastano R, Prencipe R, Pignata L, Romano R, Spadaro G, de Candia P, Pezone A, De Rosa V. Epigenetics: an Opportunity to Shape Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses. Immunol Suppl 2022; 167:451-470. [PMID: 36043705 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics connects genetic and environmental factors: it includes DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications and the regulation of chromatin accessibility by non-coding RNAs, all of which control constitutive or inducible gene transcription. This plays a key role in harnessing the transcriptional programs of both innate and adaptive immune cells due to its plasticity and environmental-driven nature, piloting myeloid and lymphoid cell fate decision with no change in their genomic sequence. In particular, epigenetic marks at the site of lineage specific transcription factors and maintenance of cell type-specific epigenetic modifications, referred to as "epigenetic memory", dictate cell differentiation, cytokine production and functional capacity following repeated antigenic exposure in memory T cells. Moreover, metabolic and epigenetic reprogramming occurring during a primary innate immune response leads to enhanced responses to secondary challenges, a phenomenon known as "trained immunity". Here we discuss how stable and dynamic epigenetic states control immune cell identity and plasticity in physiological and pathological conditions. Dissecting the regulatory circuits of cell fate determination and maintenance is of paramount importance for understanding the delicate balance between immune cell activation and tolerance, in healthy conditions and in autoimmune diseases. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Liotti
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Anne Lise Ferrara
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council, Naples, Italy.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI) and World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Loffredo
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council, Naples, Italy.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI) and World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Galdiero
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council, Naples, Italy.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI) and World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Gilda Varricchi
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council, Naples, Italy.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI) and World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Rella
- Department of Breast and Thoracic Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgia Teresa Maniscalco
- Neurological Clinic and Stroke Unit and Multiple Sclerosis Center "A. Cardarelli" Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Belardo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI) and World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Vastano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI) and World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Prencipe
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Pignata
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Roberta Romano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Spadaro
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI) and World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Paola de Candia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Pezone
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica De Rosa
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council, Naples, Italy
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Wang YF, Yu L, Hu ZL, Fang YF, Shen YY, Song MF, Chen Y. Regulation of CCL2 by EZH2 affects tumor-associated macrophages polarization and infiltration in breast cancer. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:748. [PMID: 36038549 PMCID: PMC9424193 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05169-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) play an important role in tumorigenesis, development and anti-cancer drug therapy. However, very few epigenetic compounds have been elucidated to affect tumor growth by educating TAMs in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, we identified that EZH2 performs a crucial role in the regulation of TAMs infiltration and protumoral polarization by interacting with human breast cancer (BC) cells. We showed that EZH2 inhibitors-treated BC cells induced M2 macrophage polarization in vitro and in vivo, while EZH2 knockdown exhibited the opposite effect. Mechanistically, inhibition of EZH2 histone methyltransferase alone by EZH2 inhibitors in breast cancer cells could reduce the enrichment of H3K27me3 on CCL2 gene promoter, elevate CCL2 transcription and secretion, contributing to the induction of M2 macrophage polarization and recruitment in TME, which reveal a potential explanation behind the frustrating results of EZH2 inhibitors against breast cancer. On the contrary, EZH2 depletion led to DNA demethylation and subsequent upregulation of miR-124-3p level, which inhibited its target CCL2 expression in the tumor cells, causing arrest of TAMs M2 polarization. Taken together, these data suggested that EZH2 can exert opposite regulatory effects on TAMs polarization through its enzymatic or non-enzymatic activities. Our results also imply that the effect of antitumor drugs on TAMs may affect its therapeutic efficacy, and the combined application with TAMs modifiers should be warranted to achieve great clinical success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-fang Wang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.440637.20000 0004 4657 8879Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Lei Yu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zong-long Hu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yan-fen Fang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yan-yan Shen
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Min-fang Song
- grid.440637.20000 0004 4657 8879School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yi Chen
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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45
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Luo Y, Li D, Xie L, Lei S, Chen X, Wang C, Yao D, Li L, Fang J, Chen C, Yuan S, Li F, Xie X, Zhang Y, Li Z, Hu L, Tang J, Ye L, Wei Z, He R. EZH2 restricts Tcf7 DNA methylation and promotes TFH differentiation during acute viral infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:942465. [PMID: 36045674 PMCID: PMC9420843 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.942465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicular helper T (TFH) cells provide specialized help for B cells to ensure optimal humoral immunity. The histone methyltransferase EZH2, as a chromatin repressor, secures the TFH differentiation by promoting TFH lineage associated gene expression during acute viral infection, including Tcf7 and Bcl6. By using conditional deletion murine system, we observed that EZH2 ablation in CD4+ T cells was accompanied by aberrant accumulation of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) DNMT1 and DNMT3B in TFH cells. And the loss of EZH2 promoted aggravation of DNA methylation status at Tcf7 locus. Therefore, our findings suggested that EZH2 plays an important role in maintenance of hypomethylation at Tcf7 locus thus affecting TFH differentiation during acute viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Luo
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Luoyingzi Xie
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shun Lei
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiangyu Chen
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Chongqing General Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, China
| | - Dong Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingyi Fang
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shijie Yuan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaorong Xie
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhirong Li
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Hu
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianfang Tang
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lilin Ye
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengping Wei
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ran He, ; Zhengping Wei,
| | - Ran He
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Ran He, ; Zhengping Wei,
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46
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Kokubo K, Onodera A, Kiuchi M, Tsuji K, Hirahara K, Nakayama T. Conventional and pathogenic Th2 cells in inflammation, tissue repair, and fibrosis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:945063. [PMID: 36016937 PMCID: PMC9395650 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.945063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 helper T (Th2) cells, a subset of CD4+ T cells, play an important role in the host defense against pathogens and allergens by producing Th2 cytokines, such as interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, and IL-13, to trigger inflammatory responses. Emerging evidence reveals that Th2 cells also contribute to the repair of injured tissues after inflammatory reactions. However, when the tissue repair process becomes chronic, excessive, or uncontrolled, pathological fibrosis is induced, leading to organ failure and death. Thus, proper control of Th2 cells is needed for complete tissue repair without the induction of fibrosis. Recently, the existence of pathogenic Th2 (Tpath2) cells has been revealed. Tpath2 cells produce large amounts of Th2 cytokines and induce type 2 inflammation when activated by antigen exposure or tissue injury. In recent studies, Tpath2 cells are suggested to play a central role in the induction of type 2 inflammation whereas the role of Tpath2 cells in tissue repair and fibrosis has been less reported in comparison to conventional Th2 cells. In this review, we discuss the roles of conventional Th2 cells and pathogenic Th2 cells in the sequence of tissue inflammation, repair, and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Kokubo
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Atsushi Onodera
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Academic Research, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kiuchi
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kaori Tsuji
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Hirahara
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- *Correspondence: Kiyoshi Hirahara, ; Toshinori Nakayama,
| | - Toshinori Nakayama
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- AMED-CREST, AMED, Chiba, Japan
- *Correspondence: Kiyoshi Hirahara, ; Toshinori Nakayama,
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47
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Xu WD, Huang Q, Huang AF. Emerging role of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases: A comprehensive review. Int J Rheum Dis 2022; 25:1230-1238. [PMID: 35933601 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14416] [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: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone methylated enzyme. It trimethylates histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27) to regulate epigenetic processes. Recently, studies showed excessive expression of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and systemic sclerosis. Moreover, epigenetic modification of EZH2 regulates differentiation and proliferation of different immune cells. Therefore, in this review, we comprehensively discuss the role of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases. Collection of the evidence may provide a basis for further understanding the role of EZH2 and give potential for targeting these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Dong Xu
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qi Huang
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - An-Fang Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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48
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Cai J, Wu S, Zhang F, Dai Z. Construction and Validation of an Epigenetic Regulator Signature as A Novel Biomarker For Prognosis, Immunotherapy, And Chemotherapy In Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:952413. [PMID: 35911718 PMCID: PMC9330038 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.952413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epigenetic modification regulates various aspects of cancer biology, from tumor growth and invasion to immune microenvironment modulation. Whether epigenetic regulators (EGRs) can decide tumor malignant degree and risk of immune evasion in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) remains unclear. Method An EGR signature called “EGRscore” was constructed based on bulk RNA-seq data of EGR in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The correlation between EGRscore and overall survival (OS) was validated in HCC cohorts and other tumor cohorts. Mutation profiles, copy number alterations (CNAs), enriched pathways, and response to immunotherapy and chemotherapy were compared between EGRscore-high and EGRscore-low patients. Results We found that EGRscore was associated with OS in HCC as well as several tumors including glioma, uveal melanoma (UVM), and kidney tumors. A mechanism study demonstrated that the distinct mutation profile of TP53 was present in EGRscore-high and EGRscore-low patients. Meanwhile, EGRscore-low patients were characterized with immune cells that promote killing tumors. Furthermore, EGRscore was associated with genes regulating drug resistance in HCC. Finally, we indicated that EGRscore-low patients had higher response rates to immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Conclusions EGRscore could be used to distinguish OS, tumor progression, mutation pattern, and immune microenvironment. The present study contributes to improving hepatocellular carcinoma patient prognosis and predicting response to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialiang Cai
- Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suiyi Wu
- Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Dai
- Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Zhi Dai,
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49
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Shin DS, Park K, Garon E, Dubinett S. Targeting EZH2 to overcome the resistance to immunotherapy in lung cancer. Semin Oncol 2022; 49:S0093-7754(22)00045-8. [PMID: 35851153 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Unleashing the immune system to fight cancer has been a major breakthrough in cancer therapeutics since 2014 when anti-PD-1 antibodies (pembrolizumab and nivolumab) were approved for patients with metastatic melanoma. Therapeutic indications have rapidly expanded for many types of advanced cancer, including lung cancer. A variety of antibodies targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint are contributing to this paradigm shift. The field now confronts two salient challenges: first, to improve the therapeutic outcome given the low response rate across the histologies; second, to identify biomarkers for improved patient selection. Pre-clinical and clinical studies are underway to evaluate combinatorial treatments to improve the therapeutic outcome paired with correlative studies to identify the factors associated with response and resistance. One of the emerging strategies is to combine epigenetic modifiers with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) based on the evidence that targeting epigenetic elements can enhance anti-tumor immunity by reshaping the tumor microenvironment (TME). We will briefly review pleotropic biological functions of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the enzymatic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), clinical developments of oral EZH2 inhibitors, and potentially promising approaches to combine EZH2 inhibitors and PD-1 blockade for patients with advanced solid tumors, focusing on lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sanghoon Shin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Division of Hematology/Oncology, CA, USA; Member of Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA.
| | - Kevin Park
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Edward Garon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA
| | - Steven Dubinett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Departments of Pathology, Laboratory Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology University of California Los Angeles, CA, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Division of Hematology/Oncology, CA, USA; Member of Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA
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50
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Palomba ML, Cartron G, Popplewell L, Ribrag V, Westin J, Huw LY, Agarwal S, Shivhare M, Hong WJ, Raval A, Chang AC, Penuel E, Morschhauser F. Combination of Atezolizumab and Tazemetostat in Patients With Relapsed/Refractory Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Results From a Phase Ib Study. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA, MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2022; 22:504-512. [PMID: 35151584 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2021.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The combination of atezolizumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and inhibits the interaction between PD-L1 and its receptors, and tazemetostat, an EZH2 inhibitor, may lead to selective epigenetic reprogramming, alter the tumor microenvironment, and provide additive or synergistic response to patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). MATERIALS AND METHODS This was an open-label, phase Ib study assessing the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of atezolizumab plustazemetostat in patients with R/R DLBCL. Atezolizumab (1200 mg) was administered via intravenous (IV) infusion on day 1 of each cycle and tazemetostat (800 mg) was given orally twice daily (BID) on days 1 to 21. Primary endpoints were safety and tolerability, and to identify a recommended phase II dose (RP2D) for atezolizumab. Secondary efficacy endpoints included response rate and duration of response. RESULTS A total of 43 patients were enrolled, receiving a median of 3 prior lines of treatment (range: 1-9). The RP2D for atezolizumab was 1200 mg IV infusion every 3 weeks in combination with tazemetostat 800 mg BID. At the RP2D, adverse events reported in ≥20% patients were anemia(11 patients [26%]), fatigue (10 patients [23%]), and nausea (10 patients [23%]). Overall response rate was 16% (complete response rate: 7%). Median progression-free survival was 2 months (range: 0-24) and median overall survival was 13 months (range: 1-29). CONCLUSIONS The combination of atezolizumab and tazemetostat was determined to be safe and tolerable. However, anti-tumor activity of the combination was modest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lia Palomba
- Department of Medicine, Lymphoma Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Guillaume Cartron
- Department of Clinical Hematology, University Hospital Center of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Leslie Popplewell
- Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | | | - Jason Westin
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ling-Yuh Huw
- Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Wan-Jen Hong
- Product Development Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Aparna Raval
- Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alice C Chang
- Product Development Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Elicia Penuel
- Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Franck Morschhauser
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Lille University Hospital Center, Lille, France.
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