1
|
Alserawan L, Mulet M, Anguera G, Riudavets M, Zamora C, Osuna-Gómez R, Serra-López J, Barba Joaquín A, Sullivan I, Majem M, Vidal S. Kinetics of IFNγ-Induced Cytokines and Development of Immune-Related Adverse Events in Patients Receiving PD-(L)1 Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1759. [PMID: 38730712 PMCID: PMC11083441 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091759] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have the potential to trigger unpredictable immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which can be severe. The underlying mechanisms of these events are not fully understood. As PD-L1 is upregulated by IFN, the heightened immune activation resulting from PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition may enhance the IFN response, triggering the expression of IFN-inducible genes and contributing to irAE development and its severity. In this study, we investigated the interplay between irAEs and the expression of IFN-inducible chemokines and cytokines in 134 consecutive patients with solid tumours treated with PD-(L)1 inhibitors as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy or other immunotherapy agents. We compared the plasma levels of IFN-associated cytokines (CXCL9/10/11, IL-18, IL-10, IL-6 and TGFβ) at various time points (at baseline, at the onset of irAE and previous to irAE onset) in three patient groups categorized by irAE development and severity: patients with serious irAEs, mild irAEs and without irAEs after PD-(L)1 inhibitors. No differences were observed between groups at baseline. However, patients with serious irAEs exhibited significant increases in CXCL9/10/11, IL-18 and IL-10 levels at the onset of the irAE compared to baseline. A network analysis and correlation patterns highlighted a robust relationship among these chemokines and cytokines at serious-irAE onset. Combining all of the analysed proteins in a cluster analysis, we identified a subgroup of patients with a higher incidence of serious irAEs affecting different organs or systems. Finally, an ROC analysis and a decision tree model proposed IL-18 levels ≥ 807 pg/mL and TGFβ levels ≤ 114 pg/mL as predictors for serious irAEs in 90% of cases. In conclusion, our study elucidates the dynamic changes in cytokine profiles associated with serious irAE development during treatment with PD-(L)1 inhibitors. The study's findings offer valuable insights into the intricate IFN-induced immune responses associated with irAEs and propose potential predictive markers for their severity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Alserawan
- Immunology-Inflammatory Diseases, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (L.A.); (M.M.); (C.Z.); (R.O.-G.)
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Mulet
- Immunology-Inflammatory Diseases, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (L.A.); (M.M.); (C.Z.); (R.O.-G.)
| | - Geòrgia Anguera
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (G.A.); (M.R.); (J.S.-L.); (A.B.J.); (I.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Mariona Riudavets
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (G.A.); (M.R.); (J.S.-L.); (A.B.J.); (I.S.); (M.M.)
- Department of Pneumologie, Hôpital Cochin—APHP Centre, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Carlos Zamora
- Immunology-Inflammatory Diseases, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (L.A.); (M.M.); (C.Z.); (R.O.-G.)
| | - Rubén Osuna-Gómez
- Immunology-Inflammatory Diseases, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (L.A.); (M.M.); (C.Z.); (R.O.-G.)
| | - Jorgina Serra-López
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (G.A.); (M.R.); (J.S.-L.); (A.B.J.); (I.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Andrés Barba Joaquín
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (G.A.); (M.R.); (J.S.-L.); (A.B.J.); (I.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Ivana Sullivan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (G.A.); (M.R.); (J.S.-L.); (A.B.J.); (I.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Margarita Majem
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (G.A.); (M.R.); (J.S.-L.); (A.B.J.); (I.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Silvia Vidal
- Immunology-Inflammatory Diseases, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (L.A.); (M.M.); (C.Z.); (R.O.-G.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhi L, Wang X, Gao Q, He W, Shang C, Guo C, Niu Z, Zhu W, Zhang X. Intrinsic and extrinsic factors determining natural killer cell fate: Phenotype and function. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115136. [PMID: 37453199 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are derived from hematopoietic stem cells. They belong to the innate lymphoid cell family, which is an important part of innate immunity. This family plays a role in the body mainly through the release of perforin, granzyme, and various cytokines and is involved in cytotoxicity and cytokine-mediated immune regulation. NK cells involved in normal immune regulation and the tumor microenvironment (TME) can exhibit completely different states. Here, we discuss the growth, development, and function of NK cells in regard to intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors are those that influence NK cells to promote cell maturation and exert their effector functions under the control of internal metabolism and self-related genes. Extrinsic factors include the metabolism of the TME and the influence of related proteins on the "fate" of NK cells. This review targets the potential of NK cell metabolism, cellular molecules, regulatory genes, and other mechanisms involved in immune regulation. We further discuss immune-mediated tumor therapy, which is the trend of current research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingtong Zhi
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center of Innovation for Synthetic Biology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, PR China
| | - Xing Wang
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center of Innovation for Synthetic Biology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, PR China
| | - Qing Gao
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center of Innovation for Synthetic Biology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, PR China
| | - Wenhui He
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center of Innovation for Synthetic Biology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, PR China
| | - Chongye Shang
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center of Innovation for Synthetic Biology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, PR China
| | - Changjiang Guo
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center of Innovation for Synthetic Biology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, PR China
| | - Zhiyuan Niu
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center of Innovation for Synthetic Biology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, PR China
| | - Wuling Zhu
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center of Innovation for Synthetic Biology, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, PR China.
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Castiglioni A, Yang Y, Williams K, Gogineni A, Lane RS, Wang AW, Shyer JA, Zhang Z, Mittman S, Gutierrez A, Astarita JL, Thai M, Hung J, Yang YA, Pourmohamad T, Himmels P, De Simone M, Elstrott J, Capietto AH, Cubas R, Modrusan Z, Sandoval W, Ziai J, Gould SE, Fu W, Wang Y, Koerber JT, Sanjabi S, Mellman I, Turley SJ, Müller S. Combined PD-L1/TGFβ blockade allows expansion and differentiation of stem cell-like CD8 T cells in immune excluded tumors. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4703. [PMID: 37543621 PMCID: PMC10404279 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40398-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023] Open
Abstract
TGFβ signaling is associated with non-response to immune checkpoint blockade in patients with advanced cancers, particularly in the immune-excluded phenotype. While previous work demonstrates that converting tumors from excluded to inflamed phenotypes requires attenuation of PD-L1 and TGFβ signaling, the underlying cellular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we show that TGFβ and PD-L1 restrain intratumoral stem cell-like CD8 T cell (TSCL) expansion and replacement of progenitor-exhausted and dysfunctional CD8 T cells with non-exhausted T effector cells in the EMT6 tumor model in female mice. Upon combined TGFβ/PD-L1 blockade IFNγhi CD8 T effector cells show enhanced motility and accumulate in the tumor. Ensuing IFNγ signaling transforms myeloid, stromal, and tumor niches to yield an immune-supportive ecosystem. Blocking IFNγ abolishes the anti-PD-L1/anti-TGFβ therapy efficacy. Our data suggest that TGFβ works with PD-L1 to prevent TSCL expansion and replacement of exhausted CD8 T cells, thereby maintaining the T cell compartment in a dysfunctional state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhe Zhang
- Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Minh Thai
- Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chaudhry K, Dowlati E, Long MD, Geiger A, Lang H, Gomez EC, Muniraj N, Sanchez CE, Singh PK, Liu S, Bollard CM, Cruz CRY. Comparable transforming growth factor beta-mediated immune suppression in ex vivo-expanded natural killer cells from cord blood and peripheral blood: implications for adoptive immunotherapy. Cytotherapy 2022; 24:802-817. [PMID: 35589475 PMCID: PMC10258734 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2022.04.001] [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: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
T cell-based therapies like genetically modified immune cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors have shown robust anti-cancer activity in vivo, especially in patients with blood cancers. However, extending this approach to an "off-the-shelf" setting can be challenging, as allogeneic T cells carry a significant risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). By contrast, allogeneic natural killer (NK) cells recognize malignant cells without the need for prior antigen exposure and have been used safely in multiple cancer settings without the risk of GVHD. However, similar to T cells, NK cell function is negatively impacted by tumor-induced transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) secretion, which is a ubiquitous and potent immunosuppressive mechanism employed by most malignancies. Allogeneic NK cells for adoptive immunotherapy can be sourced from peripheral blood (PB) or cord blood (CB), and the authors' group and others have previously shown that ex vivo expansion and gene engineering can overcome CB-derived NK cells' functional immaturity and poor cytolytic activity, including in the presence of exogenous TGF-β. However, a direct comparison of the effects of TGF-β-mediated immune suppression on ex vivo-expanded CB- versus PB-derived NK cell therapy products has not previously been performed. Here the authors show that PB- and CB-derived NK cells have distinctive gene signatures that can be overcome by ex vivo expansion. Additionally, exposure to exogenous TGF-β results in an upregulation of inhibitory receptors on NK cells, a novel immunosuppressive mechanism not previously described. Finally, the authors provide functional and genetic evidence that both PB- and CB-derived NK cells are equivalently susceptible to TGF-β-mediated immune suppression. The authors believe these results provide important mechanistic insights to consider when using ex vivo-expanded, TGF-β-resistant PB- or CB-derived NK cells as novel immunotherapy agents for cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kajal Chaudhry
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Ehsan Dowlati
- Department of Neurosurgery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Mark D Long
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Ashley Geiger
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Haili Lang
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Eduardo C Gomez
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Nethaji Muniraj
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Carlos E Sanchez
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Prashant K Singh
- Genomics Shared Resource, Department of Cancer Genetics and Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Song Liu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Catherine M Bollard
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA; George Washington University Cancer Center, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Conrad Russell Y Cruz
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA; George Washington University Cancer Center, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
da Silva RO, Hastreiter AA, Vivian GK, Dias CC, Santos ACA, Makiyama EN, Borelli P, Fock RA. The influence of association between aging and reduced protein intake on some immunomodulatory aspects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells: an experimental study. Eur J Nutr 2022; 61:3391-3406. [PMID: 35508740 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-022-02893-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Dietary protein deficiency is common in the elderly, compromising hematopoiesis and the immune response, and may cause a greater susceptibility to infections. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have immunomodulatory properties and are essential to hematopoiesis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate, in an aging model subjected to malnutrition due a reduced protein intake, aspects related to the immunomodulatory capacity of MSCs. METHODS Male C57BL/6 mice from young and elderly groups were fed with normoproteic or hypoproteic diets (12% and 2% of protein, respectively) and nutritional, biochemical and hematological parameters were evaluated. MSCs from bone marrow were isolated, characterized and their secretory parameters evaluated, along with gene expression. Additionally, the effects of aging and protein malnutrition on MSC immunomodulatory properties were assessed. RESULTS Malnourished mice lost weight and demonstrated anemia, leukopenia, and bone marrow hypoplasia. MSCs from elderly animals from both groups showed reduced CD73 expression and higher senescence rate; also, the malnourished state affected CD73 expression in young animals. The production of IL-1β and IL-6 by MSCs was affected by aging and malnutrition, but the IL-10 production not. Aging also increased the expression of NFκB, reducing the expression of STAT-3. However, MSCs from malnourished groups, regardless of age, showed decreased TGF-β and PGE2 production. Evaluation of the immunomodulatory capacity of MSCs revealed that aging and malnutrition affected, mainly in lymphocytes, the production of IFN-γ and IL-10. CONCLUSION Aging and reduced protein intake are factors that, alone or together, influence the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs and provide basic knowledge that can be further investigated to explore whether MSCs' therapeutic potential may be affected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renaira Oliveira da Silva
- Laboratory of Experimental Haematology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580-Bloco 17, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Araceli Aparecida Hastreiter
- Laboratory of Experimental Haematology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580-Bloco 17, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Kodja Vivian
- Laboratory of Experimental Haematology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580-Bloco 17, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Carolina Carvalho Dias
- Laboratory of Experimental Haematology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580-Bloco 17, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Andressa Cristina Antunes Santos
- Laboratory of Experimental Haematology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580-Bloco 17, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Edson Naoto Makiyama
- Laboratory of Experimental Haematology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580-Bloco 17, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Primavera Borelli
- Laboratory of Experimental Haematology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580-Bloco 17, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Ambrósio Fock
- Laboratory of Experimental Haematology, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 580-Bloco 17, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ma C, Qi Y, Liu H, Wu C, Cui X, Liu Z. Inhibitory effect of activin A on IL-9 production by mouse NK cells through Smad3 signaling. Biol Chem 2021; 401:297-308. [PMID: 31400749 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2019-0245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-9 (IL-9) is a cytokine secreted by T-helper (Th)9 cells, and activin A can enhance Th9 cell differentiation. However, whether activin A affects IL-9 production by natural killer (NK) cells remains unclear. Herein, we found that not only Th cells, but also CD3-CD49b+NKp46+ NK cells of Balb/c mice produced IL-9. Although activin A promoted IL-9 expression in CD4+ Th cells, it inhibited IL-9 production by CD49b+NKp46+ NK cells in mice. Furthermore, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results showed that mouse NK cells could secrete mature IL-9 protein, and activin A inhibited IL-9 release by NK cells. Additionally, activin A inhibited interferon (IFN)-γ production in splenic NK cells in mice, but promoted IL-2 production, and did not alter the production of IL-10. Western blotting results showed that levels of activin type IIA receptor (ActRIIA), Smad3 and phosphorylated-Smad3 (p-SMAD3) protein increased in activin A-treated splenic NK cells, compared with that in control NK cells. The inhibitory effects of activin A on IL-9 production by NK cells were attenuated in the presence of activin antagonist follistatin (FST) or Smad3 knockdown to NK cells. These data suggest that although activin A up-regulates IL-9 expression in Th cells, it inhibits IL-9 production in NK cells through Smad3 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui Ma
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Haiyan Liu
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Chengdong Wu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lin S, Lin M, Ma H, Wang X, Zhang D, Wu W, Lin J, Gao H. Identification of miR-4793-3p as a potential biomarker for bacterial infection in patients with hepatitis B virus-related liver cirrhosis: A pilot study. Exp Ther Med 2020; 21:120. [PMID: 33335583 PMCID: PMC7739867 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus-related liver cirrhosis (HBV-LC) is susceptible to bacterial infections, which could lead to adverse prognosis in patients. MicroRNAs (miRs/miRNAs) are easily detected in peripheral blood and are involved in multiple liver diseases. The present pilot study aimed to investigate differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs in the serum of patients with HBV-LC and bacterial infection, and to identify potential biomarkers. The first batch of clinical samples was collected, including four patients with HBV-LC and infection, four patients with HBV-LC without infection, four patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and four healthy controls. miRNA expression was analyzed by Affymetrix GeneChip miRNA 4.0 Array. A total of 385 DE miRNAs (upregulated, 160; downregulated, 225) were detected in patients with HBV-LC and infection compared with patients with HBV-LC without infection. miR-4793-3p was significantly upregulated in patients with HBV-LC and infection compared with its levels in the other three groups: HBV-LC without infection [log-transformed fold change (logFC)=7.96; P=0.0458), CHB (logFC=34.53; P=0.0003) and healthy controls (logFC=3.34; P=0.0219)]. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to validate miR-4793-3p expression in another batch of clinical samples. RT-qPCR showed that miR-4793-3p was highly expressed in patients with HBV-LC and infection compared with its levels in patients with HBV-LC without infection (P<0.05). The non-parametric random forest regression model was built to access the diagnostic value of miR-4793-3p, and the receiver operating characteristic curve demonstrated that the area under the curve was 92.2%. Target gene analysis with bioinformatics tools and Gene Expression Omnibus data (GSE46955) showed that miR-4793-3p could participate in the TGF-β signaling pathway. Functional experiments revealed that overexpressed miR-4793-3p could impair TGF-β function by downregulating Gremlin-1. The present pilot study suggests that miR-4793-3p could be a feasible indicator for bacterial infection in patients with HBV-LC, and it would be valuable for further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shenglong Lin
- Department of Severe Hepatopathy, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Fuzhou Infectious Diseases Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Infectious Diseases Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| | - Minghua Lin
- Department of Severe Hepatopathy, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Fuzhou Infectious Diseases Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Infectious Diseases Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| | - Huaxi Ma
- Department of Severe Hepatopathy, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Fuzhou Infectious Diseases Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Infectious Diseases Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| | - Xiangmei Wang
- Department of Severe Hepatopathy, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Fuzhou Infectious Diseases Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Infectious Diseases Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| | - Dongqing Zhang
- Department of Severe Hepatopathy, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Fuzhou Infectious Diseases Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Infectious Diseases Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| | - Wenjun Wu
- Department of Severe Hepatopathy, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Fuzhou Infectious Diseases Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Infectious Diseases Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| | - Jiahuang Lin
- Department of Severe Hepatopathy, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Fuzhou Infectious Diseases Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Infectious Diseases Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| | - Haibing Gao
- Department of Severe Hepatopathy, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Fuzhou Infectious Diseases Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatology, Infectious Diseases Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Devillier R, Chrétien AS, Pagliardini T, Salem N, Blaise D, Olive D. Mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction in the tumor microenvironment and current clinical approaches to harness NK cell potential for immunotherapy. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 109:1071-1088. [PMID: 32991746 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5mr0920-198rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells are innate immune cells with inherent capabilities in both recognizing and killing cancer cells. NK cell phenotypes and functional alterations are being described with increasing precision among patients harboring various cancer types, emphasizing the critical role that NK cells play in antitumor immune responses. In addition, advances in understanding NK cell biology have improved our knowledge of such alterations, thereby expanding the potential exploitation of NK cells' anticancer capabilities. In this review, we present an overview of (1) the various types of NK cell alterations that may contribute to immune evasion in cancer patients and (2) the various strategies to improve NK cell-based anticancer immunotherapies, including pharmacologic modulation and/or genetic modification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raynier Devillier
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France.,Hematology Department, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Chrétien
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Thomas Pagliardini
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France.,Hematology Department, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Nassim Salem
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Didier Blaise
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France.,Hematology Department, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| | - Daniel Olive
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CRCM, Marseille, France.,Immunomonitoring platform, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kleinertz H, Hepner-Schefczyk M, Ehnert S, Claus M, Halbgebauer R, Boller L, Huber-Lang M, Cinelli P, Kirschning C, Flohé S, Sander A, Waydhas C, Vonderhagen S, Jäger M, Dudda M, Watzl C, Flohé SB. Circulating growth/differentiation factor 15 is associated with human CD56 bright natural killer cell dysfunction and nosocomial infection in severe systemic inflammation. EBioMedicine 2019; 43:380-391. [PMID: 30992245 PMCID: PMC6557805 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic inflammation induced by sterile or infectious insults is associated with an enhanced susceptibility to life-threatening opportunistic, mostly bacterial, infections due to unknown pathogenesis. Natural killer (NK) cells contribute to the defence against bacterial infections through the release of Interferon (IFN) γ in response to Interleukin (IL) 12. Considering the relevance of NK cells in the immune defence we investigated whether the function of NK cells is disturbed in patients suffering from serious systemic inflammation. Methods NK cells from severely injured patients were analysed from the first day after the initial inflammatory insult until the day of discharge in terms of IL-12 receptor signalling and IFN-γ synthesis. Findings During systemic inflammation, the expression of the IL-12 receptor β2 chain, phosphorylation of signal transducer and activation 4, and IFN-γ production on/in NK cells was impaired upon exposure to Staphylococcus aureus. The profound suppression of NK cells developed within 24 h after the initial insult and persisted for several weeks. NK cells displayed signs of exhaustion. Extrinsic changes were mediated by the early and long-lasting presence of growth/differentiation factor (GDF) 15 in the circulation that signalled through the transforming growth factor β receptor I and activated Smad1/5. Moreover, the concentration of GDF-15 in the serum inversely correlated with the IL-12 receptor β2 expression on NK cells and was enhanced in patients who later acquired septic complications. Interpretation GDF-15 is associated with the development of NK cell dysfunction during systemic inflammation and might represent a novel target to prevent nosocomial infections. Fund The study was supported by the Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holger Kleinertz
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Monika Hepner-Schefczyk
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sabrina Ehnert
- Siegfried Weller Institute for Trauma Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Maren Claus
- Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, IfADo, TU-Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Rebecca Halbgebauer
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Trauma-Immunology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lea Boller
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Markus Huber-Lang
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Trauma-Immunology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Paolo Cinelli
- Division of Trauma Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Carsten Kirschning
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sascha Flohé
- Department of Hand- and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Dusseldorf, University Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - André Sander
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Christian Waydhas
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sonja Vonderhagen
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marcus Jäger
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marcel Dudda
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Carsten Watzl
- Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, IfADo, TU-Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Stefanie B Flohé
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zaiatz-Bittencourt V, Finlay DK, Gardiner CM. Canonical TGF-β Signaling Pathway Represses Human NK Cell Metabolism. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 200:3934-3941. [PMID: 29720425 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1701461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cytokines stimulate rapid metabolic changes in human NK cells, including increases in both glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation pathways. However, how these are subsequently regulated is not known. In this study, we demonstrate that TGF-β can inhibit many of these metabolic changes, including oxidative phosphorylation, glycolytic capacity, and respiratory capacity. TGF-β also inhibited cytokine-induced expression of the transferrin nutrient receptor CD71. In contrast to a recent report on murine NK cells, TGF-β-mediated suppression of these metabolic responses did not involve the inhibition of the metabolic regulator mTORC1. Inhibition of the canonical TGF-β signaling pathway was able to restore almost all metabolic and functional responses that were inhibited by TGF-β. These data suggest that pharmacological inhibition of TGF-β could provide a metabolic advantage to NK cells that is likely to result in improved functional responses. This has important implications for NK cell-based cancer immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Zaiatz-Bittencourt
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; and
| | - David K Finlay
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; and .,School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Clair M Gardiner
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; and
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kelly A, Houston SA, Sherwood E, Casulli J, Travis MA. Regulation of Innate and Adaptive Immunity by TGFβ. Adv Immunol 2017; 134:137-233. [PMID: 28413021 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Immune regulation by cytokines is crucial in maintaining immune homeostasis, promoting responses to infection, resolving inflammation, and promoting immunological memory. Additionally, cytokine responses drive pathology in immune-mediated disease. A crucial cytokine in the regulation of all aspects of an immune response is transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ). Although best known as a crucial regulator of T cell responses, TGFβ plays a vital role in regulating responses mediated by virtually every innate and adaptive immune cell, including dendritic cells, B cells, NK cells, innate lymphoid cells, and granulocytes. Here, we review our current knowledge of how TGFβ regulates the immune system, highlighting the multifunctional nature of TGFβ and how its function can change depending on location and context of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aoife Kelly
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Manchester Immunology Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie A Houston
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Manchester Immunology Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor Sherwood
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Manchester Immunology Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Joshua Casulli
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Manchester Immunology Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Travis
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Manchester Immunology Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yvon ES, Burga R, Powell A, Cruz CR, Fernandes R, Barese C, Nguyen T, Abdel-Baki MS, Bollard CM. Cord blood natural killer cells expressing a dominant negative TGF-β receptor: Implications for adoptive immunotherapy for glioblastoma. Cytotherapy 2017; 19:408-418. [PMID: 28109751 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cord blood (CB) natural killer (NK) cells are promising effector cells for tumor immunotherapy but are currently limited by immune-suppressive cytokines in the tumor microenvironment, such as transforming growth factor (TGF-β). We observed that TGF-β inhibits expression of activating receptors such as NKG2D and DNAM1 and decreases killing activity against glioblastoma tumor cells through inhibition of perforin secretion. To overcome the detrimental effects of TGF-β, we engrafted a dominant negative TGF-β receptor II (DNRII) on CB-derived NK cells by retroviral transduction and evaluated their ability to kill glioblastoma cells in the presence of TGF-β. After manufacture using Good Manufacturing Practice-compliant methodologies and transduction with DNRII, CB-derived DNRII-transduced NK cells expanded to clinically relevant numbers and retained both their killing ability and their secretion of interferon-γ upon activation. More important, these cells maintained both perforin expression and NKG2D/DNMA1 expression in the presence of TGF-β allowing for recognition and killing of glioblastoma tumor cells. Hence, NK cells expressing a DNRII should have a functional advantage over unmodified NK cells in the presence of TGF-β-secreting tumors and may be an important therapeutic approach for patients with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric S Yvon
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, Texas
| | - Rachel Burga
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Allison Powell
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Conrad R Cruz
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rohan Fernandes
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Cecilia Barese
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tuongvan Nguyen
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Catherine M Bollard
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Oncolytic reovirus enhances rituximab-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity against chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Leukemia 2015; 29:1799-810. [PMID: 25814029 PMCID: PMC4490165 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2015.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The naturally occurring oncolytic virus (OV), reovirus, replicates in cancer cells causing direct cytotoxicity, and can activate innate and adaptive immune responses to facilitate tumour clearance. Reovirus is safe, well tolerated and currently in clinical testing for the treatment of multiple myeloma, in combination with dexamethasone/carfilzomib. Activation of natural killer (NK) cells has been observed after systemic delivery of reovirus to cancer patients; however, the ability of OV to potentiate NK cell-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) is unexplored. This study elucidates the potential of oncolytic reovirus for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), both as a direct cytotoxic agent and as an immunomodulator. We demonstrate that reovirus: (i) is directly cytotoxic against CLL, which requires replication-competent virus; (ii) phenotypically and functionally activates patient NK cells via a monocyte-derived interferon-α (IFNα)-dependent mechanism; and (iii) enhances ADCC-mediated killing of CLL in combination with anti-CD20 antibodies. Our data provide strong preclinical evidence to support the use of reovirus in combination with anti-CD20 immunotherapy for the treatment of CLL.
Collapse
|
14
|
Influenza viral neuraminidase primes bacterial coinfection through TGF-β-mediated expression of host cell receptors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 112:238-43. [PMID: 25535343 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1414422112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza infection predisposes the host to secondary bacterial pneumonia, which is a major cause of mortality during influenza epidemics. The molecular mechanisms underlying the bacterial coinfection remain elusive. Neuraminidase (NA) of influenza A virus (IAV) enhances bacterial adherence and also activates TGF-β. Because TGF-β can up-regulate host adhesion molecules such as fibronectin and integrins for bacterial binding, we hypothesized that activated TGF-β during IAV infection contributes to secondary bacterial infection by up-regulating these host adhesion molecules. Flow cytometric analyses of a human lung epithelial cell line indicated that the expression of fibronectin and α5 integrin was up-regulated after IAV infection or treatment with recombinant NA and was reversed through the inhibition of TGF-β signaling. IAV-promoted adherence of group A Streptococcus (GAS) and other coinfective pathogens that require fibronectin for binding was prevented significantly by the inhibition of TGF-β. However, IAV did not promote the adherence of Lactococcus lactis unless this bacterium expressed the fibronectin-binding protein of GAS. Mouse experiments showed that IAV infection enhanced GAS colonization in the lungs of wild-type animals but not in the lungs of mice deficient in TGF-β signaling. Taken together, these results reveal a previously unrecognized mechanism: IAV NA enhances the expression of cellular adhesins through the activation of TGF-β, leading to increased bacterial loading in the lungs. Our results suggest that TGF-β and cellular adhesins may be potential pharmaceutical targets for the prevention of coinfection.
Collapse
|
15
|
Wira CR, Fahey JV, Rodriguez-Garcia M, Shen Z, Patel MV. Regulation of mucosal immunity in the female reproductive tract: the role of sex hormones in immune protection against sexually transmitted pathogens. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 72:236-58. [PMID: 24734774 PMCID: PMC4351777 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system in the female reproductive tract (FRT) does not mount an attack against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or other sexually transmitted infections (STI) with a single endogenously produced microbicide or with a single arm of the immune system. Instead, the body deploys dozens of innate antimicrobials to the secretions of the FRT. Working together, these antimicrobials along with mucosal antibodies attack viral, bacterial, and fungal targets. Within the FRT, the unique challenges of protection against sexually transmitted pathogens coupled with the need to sustain the development of an allogeneic fetus, has evolved in such a way that sex hormones precisely regulate immune function to accomplish both tasks. The studies presented in this review demonstrate that estradiol (E2 ) and progesterone secreted during the menstrual cycle act both directly and indirectly on epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells in the reproductive tract to modify immune function in a way that is unique to specific sites throughout the FRT. As presented in this review, studies from our laboratory and others demonstrate that the innate and adaptive immune systems are under hormonal control, that protection varies with the stage of the menstrual cycle and as such, is dampened during the secretory stage of the cycle to optimize conditions for fertilization and pregnancy. In doing so, a window of STI vulnerability is created during which potential pathogens including HIV enter the reproductive tract to infect host targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Wira
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
|
17
|
Marçais A, Viel S, Grau M, Henry T, Marvel J, Walzer T. Regulation of mouse NK cell development and function by cytokines. Front Immunol 2013; 4:450. [PMID: 24376448 PMCID: PMC3859915 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2013.00450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes with an important role in the early defense against intracellular pathogens and against tumors. Like other immune cells, almost every aspects of their biology are regulated by cytokines. Interleukin (IL)-15 is pivotal for their development, homeostasis, and activation. Moreover, numerous other activating or inhibitory cytokines such as IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18, IL-21, Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) and type I interferons regulate their activation and their effector functions at different stages of the immune response. In this review we summarize the current understanding on the effect of these different cytokines on NK cell development, homeostasis, and functions during steady-state or upon infection by different pathogens. We try to delineate the cellular sources of these cytokines, the intracellular pathways they trigger and the transcription factors they regulate. We describe the known synergies or antagonisms between different cytokines and highlight outstanding questions in this field of investigation. Finally, we discuss how a better knowledge of cytokine action on NK cells could help improve strategies to manipulate NK cells in different clinical situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Marçais
- CIRI, International Center for Infectiology Research, Université de Lyon , Lyon , France ; U1111, INSERM , Lyon , France ; Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon , Lyon , France ; Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Université Lyon 1 , Lyon , France ; UMR5308, CNRS , Lyon , France
| | - Sébastien Viel
- CIRI, International Center for Infectiology Research, Université de Lyon , Lyon , France ; U1111, INSERM , Lyon , France ; Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon , Lyon , France ; Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Université Lyon 1 , Lyon , France ; UMR5308, CNRS , Lyon , France ; Laboratoire d'Immunologie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud , Lyon , France
| | - Morgan Grau
- CIRI, International Center for Infectiology Research, Université de Lyon , Lyon , France ; U1111, INSERM , Lyon , France ; Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon , Lyon , France ; Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Université Lyon 1 , Lyon , France ; UMR5308, CNRS , Lyon , France
| | - Thomas Henry
- CIRI, International Center for Infectiology Research, Université de Lyon , Lyon , France ; U1111, INSERM , Lyon , France ; Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon , Lyon , France ; Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Université Lyon 1 , Lyon , France ; UMR5308, CNRS , Lyon , France
| | - Jacqueline Marvel
- CIRI, International Center for Infectiology Research, Université de Lyon , Lyon , France ; U1111, INSERM , Lyon , France ; Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon , Lyon , France ; Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Université Lyon 1 , Lyon , France ; UMR5308, CNRS , Lyon , France
| | - Thierry Walzer
- CIRI, International Center for Infectiology Research, Université de Lyon , Lyon , France ; U1111, INSERM , Lyon , France ; Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon , Lyon , France ; Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Université Lyon 1 , Lyon , France ; UMR5308, CNRS , Lyon , France
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ivarsson MA, Loh L, Marquardt N, Kekäläinen E, Berglin L, Björkström NK, Westgren M, Nixon DF, Michaëlsson J. Differentiation and functional regulation of human fetal NK cells. J Clin Invest 2013; 123:3889-901. [PMID: 23945237 DOI: 10.1172/jci68989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The human fetal immune system is naturally exposed to maternal allogeneic cells, maternal antibodies, and pathogens. As such, it is faced with a considerable challenge with respect to the balance between immune reactivity and tolerance. Here, we show that fetal natural killer (NK) cells differentiate early in utero and are highly responsive to cytokines and antibody-mediated stimulation but respond poorly to HLA class I-negative target cells. Strikingly, expression of killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) did not educate fetal NK cells but rendered them hyporesponsive to target cells lacking HLA class I. In addition, fetal NK cells were highly susceptible to TGF-β-mediated suppression, and blocking of TGF-β signaling enhanced fetal NK cell responses to target cells. Our data demonstrate that KIR-mediated hyporesponsiveness and TGF-β-mediated suppression are major factors determining human fetal NK cell hyporesponsiveness to HLA class I-negative target cells and provide a potential mechanism for fetal-maternal tolerance in utero. Finally, our results provide a basis for understanding the role of fetal NK cells in pregnancy complications in which NK cells could be involved, for example, during in utero infections and anti-RhD-induced fetal anemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin A Ivarsson
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Tachibana Y, Nakano Y, Nagaoka K, Kikuchi M, Nambo Y, Haneda S, Matsui M, Miyake YI, Imakawa K. Expression of endometrial immune-related genes possibly functioning during early pregnancy in the mare. J Reprod Dev 2012; 59:85-91. [PMID: 23138119 PMCID: PMC3943239 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2012-142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite enormous efforts, biochemical and molecular mechanisms associated with equine
reproduction, particularly processes of pregnancy establishment, have not been well
characterized. Previously, PCR-selected suppression subtraction hybridization analysis was
executed to identify unique molecules functioning in the equine endometrium during periods
of pregnancy establishment, and granzyme B (GZMB) cDNA was found in the
pregnant endometrial cDNA library. Because GZMB is produced from natural killer (NK)
cells, endometrial expression of GZMB and immune-related transcripts were
characterized in this study. The level of GZMB mRNA is higher in the
pregnant endometrium than in non-pregnant ones. This expression was also confirmed through
Western blot and immunohistochemical analyses. IL-2 mRNA declined as
pregnancy progressed, while IL-15, IFNG and
TGFB1 transcripts increased on day 19 and/or 25. Analyses of
IL-4 and IL-12 mRNAs demonstrated the increase in
these transcripts as pregnancy progressed. Increase in CCR5 and
CCR4 mRNAs indicated that both Th1 and Th2 cells coexisted in the day
25 pregnant endometrium. Taken together, the endometrial expression of immune-related
transcripts suggests that immunological responses are present even before the
trophectoderm actually attaches to the uterine epithelial cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yurika Tachibana
- Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Espinoza JL, Takami A, Yoshioka K, Nakata K, Sato T, Kasahara Y, Nakao S. Human microRNA-1245 down-regulates the NKG2D receptor in natural killer cells and impairs NKG2D-mediated functions. Haematologica 2012; 97:1295-303. [PMID: 22491735 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2011.058529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND NKG2D is an activating receptor expressed by natural killer and T cells, which have crucial functions in tumor and microbial immunosurveillance. Several cytokines have been identified as modulators of NKG2D receptor expression. However, little is known about NKG2D gene regulation. In this study, we found that microRNA 1245 attenuated the expression of NKG2D in natural killer cells. DESIGN AND METHODS We investigated the potential interactions between the 3'-untranslated region of the NKG2D gene and microRNA as well as their functional roles in the regulation of NKG2D expression and cytotoxicity in natural killer cells. RESULTS Transforming growth factor-β1, a major negative regulator of NKG2D expression, post-transcriptionally up-regulated mature microRNA-1245 expression, thus down-regulating NKG2D expression and impairing NKG2D-mediated immune responses in natural killer cells. Conversely, microRNA-1245 down-regulation significantly increased the expression of NKG2D expression in natural killer cells, resulting in more efficient NKG2D-mediated cytotoxicity. CONCLUSIONS These results reveal a novel NKG2D regulatory pathway mediated by microRNA-1245, which may represent one of the mechanisms used by transforming growth factor-β1 to attenuate NKG2D expression in natural killer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Luis Espinoza
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Kanazawa University Hospital 13-1 Takaramachi, Kanazawa, 920-8641, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bergmann C, Wild CA, Narwan M, Lotfi R, Lang S, Brandau S. Human tumor-induced and naturally occurring Treg cells differentially affect NK cells activated by either IL-2 or target cells. Eur J Immunol 2011; 41:3564-73. [PMID: 21905023 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201141532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2011] [Revised: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 09/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
NK cells play a crucial role in the eradication of tumor cells. Naturally occurring (n) Treg cells and induced (i) Treg cells are two distinct Treg subsets. While the interaction of nTreg cells with NK cells has been investigated in the past, the role of tumor iTreg cells in the modulation of NK-cell function remains unclear. Tumor iTreg cells were generated from CD4(+) CD25(-) T cells in the presence of autologous immature DCs, head and neck cancer cells and IL-2, IL-10, and IL-15. The effect of iTreg cells and nTreg cells on the expression of NKG2D, NKp44, CD107a, and IFN-γ by NK cells, as well as NK tumor-cytolytic activity, were investigated. iTreg cells - similar to recombinant TGF-β and nTreg cells - inhibited IL-2-induced activation of NK cells in the absence of target cell contact. Surprisingly, and in contrast to nTreg cells, iTreg cells enhanced NK-cell activity elicited by target cell contact. The cytolytic activity of NK cells activated by iTreg cells was mediated via perforin and FasL. We conclude that tumor iTreg cells inhibited IL-2-mediated NK-cell activity in the absence of target cells, whereas the tumoricidal activity of NK cells was enhanced by iTreg cells. Our data suggest a complex, previously not recognized, differential regulation of human NK activity by iTreg cells in the tumor microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Bergmann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Duisburg - Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Interleukin-15 enhances rituximab-dependent cytotoxicity against chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells and overcomes transforming growth factor beta-mediated immunosuppression. Exp Hematol 2011; 39:1064-71. [PMID: 21864486 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2011.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2011] [Revised: 07/12/2011] [Accepted: 08/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Chemoimmunotherapy with anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab is increasingly used for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) is one of the most important mechanisms of action of rituximab against B-cell malignancies. We studied ways to increase the cytotoxic effect of rituximab on CLL cells by enhancing ADCC. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) or purified natural killer (NK) cells from healthy donors were activated with interleukin-15 (IL-15) and cultured with rituximab-coated CLL cells, and ADCC was evaluated using a (51)chromium release assay. The IL-15 significantly enhanced in vitro ADCC against CLL cells, and this effect was mainly mediated by NK cells. The IL-15 treated effector cells with the low affinity FcγRIIIA receptor (158FF) had an ADCC comparable to those with the high affinity FcγRIIIA form (158VF). In addition, IL-15 enhanced rituximab-mediated ADCC of CLL cells in the presence of transforming growth factor-beta. The IL-15 increases rituximab-mediated ADCC against CLL, and supports the use of such agents with the goal of improving clinical response to chemoimmunotherapy in patients with CLL.
Collapse
|
23
|
Mantel PY, Schmidt-Weber CB. Transforming growth factor-beta: recent advances on its role in immune tolerance. Methods Mol Biol 2011; 677:303-38. [PMID: 20941619 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-60761-869-0_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) is a pleiotropic cytokine, secreted by immune and nonhematopoietic cells. TGF-β is involved in many different critical processes, such as embryonal development, cellular maturation and differentiation, wound healing, and immune regulation. It maintains immune homeostasis by acting as a potent immune suppressor through inhibition of proliferation, differentiation, activation, and effector function of immune cells. Paradoxically, depending on the context, it displays proinflammatory properties by being a potent chemoattractant for neutrophils and promoting inflammation. In addition, it does not only induce differentiation into the anti-inflammatory Treg cells, but also into the proinflammatory Th17 and Th9 cells and inhibits Th22 differentiation. TGF-β has been demonstrated to be involved in multiple pathologies. In infections, it protects against collateral damages caused by the immune system, but it also promotes immune evasion and chronic infections. In autoimmune diseases, a TGF-β dysfunction leads to the loss of tolerance to self-antigens. In cancer, TGF-β is a potent inhibitor of cell proliferation and acts as a tumor suppressor at the beginning of tumorogenesis. However, once the cells become resistant to TGF-β, it mainly supports tumor growth and metastasis by promoting immune evasion and angiogenesis. In asthma, it is assumed to promote allergen tolerance, but plays a detrimental role in irreversible remodeling of the airways. Despite the high numbers of TGF-β-targeted pathways, it is a promising drug target for treatment of autoimmunity, cancer, fibrosis, if cell specificity can be achieved.This review summarizes the progresses that have been accomplished on the understanding of TGF-β's signaling in the immune homeostasis and its role in pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Yves Mantel
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lindgren Å, Yun CH, Sjöling Å, Berggren C, Sun JB, Jonsson E, Holmgren J, Svennerholm AM, Lundin SB. Impaired IFN-γ production after stimulation with bacterial components by natural killer cells from gastric cancer patients. Exp Cell Res 2011; 317:849-58. [PMID: 21255568 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2011.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2010] [Revised: 12/30/2010] [Accepted: 01/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Gastric adenocarcinoma is a major health problem world-wide, as this is the second most common cause of cancer death in the world. It has been estimated that infection by Helicobacter pylori cause at least half of the gastric cancers. Previously, we have demonstrated that H. pylori antigens directly activate NK cells to secrete IFN-γ. There is also a marked synergistic effect in NK cells stimulated with bacterial lysate and low levels of IL-12, a cytokine which is produced by macrophages and dendritic cells in the H. pylori-infected stomach. The present study was designed to investigate whether NK cells from gastric cancer patients display an altered ability to respond to components from H. pylori and other bacteria. The results show that NK cells from peripheral blood of gastric cancer patients have a severely suppressed ability to produce IFN-γ after stimulation with H. pylori lysate and the synthetic bacterial lipoprotein FSL-1. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of IL-12 and lysate is absent in gastric cancer patients, unless the concentration of IL-12 is increased 10-fold. We also demonstrate that there is a similar lack of IFN-γ production from NK cells isolated from the gastric mucosa of cancer patients. In addition, we propose that the observed suppression is due to tumour-derived TGF-β and that increased expression of the transcription factor GATA-3 may be responsible for the TGF-β induced suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Åsa Lindgren
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and Mucosal Immunobiology and Vaccine Institute for Strategic Research, University of Gothenburg, Box 435, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bergé M, Bonnin P, Sulpice E, Vilar J, Allanic D, Silvestre JS, Lévy BI, Tucker GC, Tobelem G, Merkulova-Rainon T. Small interfering RNAs induce target-independent inhibition of tumor growth and vasculature remodeling in a mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2010; 177:3192-201. [PMID: 20971743 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2010.100157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference mediated by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach to treat various diseases, including cancer. Recent studies with several animal models of posttraumatic revascularization demonstrated that synthetic siRNAs may produce therapeutic effects in a target-independent manner through the stimulation of the toll-like receptor-3 (TLR3)/interferon pathway and suppression of angiogenesis. To analyze the impact of siRNAs on tumor angiogenesis, we injected transgenic mice developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with either control siRNAs or siRNA targeting neuropilin-1. We found that treatment with these siRNAs led to a comparable reduction in tumor liver volume and to inhibition of tumor vasculature remodeling. We further determined that TLR3, which recognizes double-stranded siRNA, was up-regulated in mouse HCC. Treatment of HCC mice with polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)], a TLR3 agonist, led to both a reduction of tumor liver enlargement and a decrease in hepatic arterial blood flow, indicating that TLR3 is functional and may mediate both anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor responses. We also demonstrated that siRNAs increased interferon-γ levels in the liver. In vitro, interferon-γ inhibited proliferation of endothelial cells. In addition, we found that siRNAs inhibited endothelial cell proliferation and morphogenesis in an interferon-γ-independent manner. Our results suggest that synthetic siRNAs inhibit target-independently HCC growth and angiogenesis through the activation of the innate interferon response and by directly inhibiting endothelial cell function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Bergé
- Institut des Vaisseaux et du Sang, INSERM U965 Equipe Labellisée LIGUE 2009, Université Paris 7, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Wira CR, Fahey JV, Ghosh M, Patel MV, Hickey DK, Ochiel DO. Sex hormone regulation of innate immunity in the female reproductive tract: the role of epithelial cells in balancing reproductive potential with protection against sexually transmitted pathogens. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 63:544-65. [PMID: 20367623 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2010.00842.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system in the female reproductive tract (FRT) does not mount an attack against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STI) with a single endogenously produced microbicide or with a single arm of the immune system. Instead, the body deploys dozens of innate antimicrobials to the secretions of the female reproductive tract. Working together, these antimicrobials along with mucosal antibodies attack many different viral, bacterial and fungal targets. Within the FRT, the unique challenges of protection against sexually transmitted pathogens coupled with the need to sustain the development of an allogeneic fetus have evolved in such a way that sex hormones precisely regulate immune function to accomplish both tasks. The studies presented in this review demonstrate that estradiol and progesterone secreted during the menstrual cycle act both directly and indirectly on epithelial cells and other immune cells in the reproductive tract to modify immune function in a way that is unique to specific sites throughout the FRT. As presented in this review, studies from our laboratory and others demonstrate that the innate immune response is under hormonal control, varies with the stage of the menstrual cycle, and as such is suppressed at mid-cycle to optimize conditions for successful fertilization and pregnancy. In doing so, a window of STI vulnerability is created during which potential pathogens including HIV enter the reproductive tract to infect host targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Wira
- Department of Physiology, Dartmouth Medical School, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Uemura A, Takehara T, Miyagi T, Suzuki T, Tatsumi T, Ohkawa K, Kanto T, Hiramatsu N, Hayashi N. Natural killer cell is a major producer of interferon gamma that is critical for the IL-12-induced anti-tumor effect in mice. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2010; 59:453-63. [PMID: 19756594 PMCID: PMC11030467 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-009-0764-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2009] [Accepted: 08/24/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Although the anti-tumor effect of IL-12 is mediated mostly by IFNgamma, which cell types most efficiently produce IFNgamma and therefore initiate or promote the anti-tumor effect of IL-12 has not been clearly determined. In the present study, we demonstrated hydrodynamic injection of the IL-12 gene led to prolonged IFNgamma production, NK-cell activation and complete inhibition of liver metastasis of CT-26 colon cancer cells in wild-type mice, but not in IFNgamma knockout mice. NK cells expressed higher levels of STAT4 and upon IL-12 administration displayed stronger STAT4 phosphorylation and IFNgamma production than non-NK cells. Adoptive transfer of wild-type NK cells into IFNgamma knockout mice restored IL-12-induced IFNgamma production, NK-cell activation and anti-tumor effect, whereas transfer of the same number of wild-type non-NK cells did not. In conclusion, NK cells are predominant producers of IFNgamma that is critical for IL-12 anti-tumor therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akio Uemura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamada-oka, Suita, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Trotta R, Dal Col J, Yu J, Ciarlariello D, Thomas B, Zhang X, Allard J, Wei M, Mao H, Byrd JC, Perrotti D, Caligiuri MA. TGF-beta utilizes SMAD3 to inhibit CD16-mediated IFN-gamma production and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity in human NK cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2008; 181:3784-92. [PMID: 18768831 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.181.6.3784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
TGF-beta can be a potent suppressor of lymphocyte effector cell functions and can mediate these effects via distinct molecular pathways. The role of TGF-beta in regulating CD16-mediated NK cell IFN-gamma production and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) is unclear, as are the signaling pathways that may be utilized. Treatment of primary human NK cells with TGF-beta inhibited IFN-gamma production induced by CD16 activation with or without IL-12 or IL-2, and it did so without affecting the phosphorylation/activation of MAP kinases ERK and p38, as well as STAT4. TGF-beta treatment induced SMAD3 phosphorylation, and ectopic overexpression of SMAD3 resulted in a significant decrease in IFN-gamma gene expression following CD16 activation with or without IL-12 or IL-2. Likewise, NK cells obtained from smad3(-/-) mice produced more IFN-gamma in response to CD16 activation plus IL-12 when compared with NK cells obtained from wild-type mice. Coactivation of human NK cells via CD16 and IL-12 induced expression of T-BET, the positive regulator of IFN-gamma, and T-BET was suppressed by TGF-beta and by SMAD3 overexpression. An extended treatment of primary NK cells with TGF-beta was required to inhibit ADCC, and it did so by inhibiting granzyme A and granzyme B expression. This effect was accentuated in cells overexpressing SMAD3. Collectively, our results indicate that TGF-beta inhibits CD16-mediated human NK cell IFN-gamma production and ADCC, and these effects are mediated via SMAD3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Trotta
- Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology, and Medical Genetics, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Resistance of human leukocytes to vesicular stomatitis virus infection as one of the innate antiviral immune activities; participation of cell subpopulations. Folia Histochem Cytobiol 2008; 46:39-43. [DOI: 10.2478/v10042-008-0004-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
30
|
|
31
|
Anthoni M, Wang G, Deng C, Wolff HJ, Lauerma AI, Alenius HT. Smad3 Signal Transducer Regulates Skin Inflammation and Specific IgE Response in Murine Model of Atopic Dermatitis. J Invest Dermatol 2007; 127:1923-9. [PMID: 17429443 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jid.5700809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta is an important fibrogenic and immunomodulatory factor that regulates cellular processes in the injured and inflamed skin. This study examines the role of the TGF-beta-Smad signaling pathway using Smad3-deficient mice in a murine model of AD. Dermatitis was induced in mice by epicutaneous application of ovalbumin (OVA) applied in a patch to tape-stripped skin. OVA-specific IgE and IgG2a antibody levels were measured by ELISA. Skin biopsies from sensitized skin areas were used for RNA isolation, histology, and immunohistochemical examination. The thickness of dermis was significantly reduced in OVA-sensitized skin of Smad3-/- mice. The defect in the dermal thickness was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of mRNA for proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-1beta in the OVA-sensitized skin. In contrast, the number of mast cells was significantly increased in OVA-sensitized skin of Smad3-/- mice, which also exhibited elevated levels of OVA-specific IgE. These results demonstrate that the Smad3-pathway regulates allergen-induced skin inflammation and systemic IgE antibody production in a murine model AD. The Smad3 signaling pathway might be a potential target in the therapy of allergic skin diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minna Anthoni
- Unit of Excellence in Immunotoxicology, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Polak ME, Borthwick NJ, Johnson P, Hungerford JL, Higgins B, Di Palma S, Jager MJ, Cree IA. Presence and phenotype of dendritic cells in uveal melanoma. Br J Ophthalmol 2007; 91:971-6. [PMID: 17347328 PMCID: PMC1955657 DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2006.110908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2007] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uveal melanoma arises in an immune-privileged site and can itself add to the immunosuppressive environment. Previous studies on cutaneous melanoma have shown the presence of tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs), which could play an important role in the progression of the tumour. AIM To examine the presence and functional status of DCs in a small series of uveal melanomas. METHODS 10 cases of uveal melanoma were examined for the expression of FXIIIa, CD68, human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DR, CD40, CD83, transforming growth factor betaR1 and indolamine 2,3 dioxygenase by immunohistochemical analysis on sections embedded in paraffin wax. RESULTS CD68-positive macrophages were present in all of the tumours and were evenly distributed throughout. DCs expressing FXIIIa-positive were seen in 7 cases, and were often found concentrated in foci within the tumour mass. These cells were dendritic and expressed high levels of HLA-DR. The DCs did not express the maturation markers CD83 or CD40. In one case, concentration of DCs around the area of tumour necrosis was observed, and some of these cells expressed CD83. CONCLUSION Numerous tolerising antigen-presenting cells may play a role in melanoma-related immunosuppression in the eye, although activation of DCs may be associated with tumour necrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta E Polak
- Translational Oncology Research Centre, Queen Alexandra Hospital, Southwick Hill, Portsmouth PO6 3LY, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Girling JE, Hedger MP. Toll‐like receptors in the gonads and reproductive tract: emerging roles in reproductive physiology and pathology. Immunol Cell Biol 2007; 85:481-9. [PMID: 17592495 DOI: 10.1038/sj.icb.7100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Interactions between the immune system and reproductive system have important consequences for fertility and reproductive health in general. There is increasing evidence that many of the interactions between the immune and reproductive systems involve the Toll-like receptors (TLRs). While there is no doubt that TLRs are important in providing protection against infection in the reproductive tract, there is increasing evidence for the involvement of TLRs in more basic pathology and physiology of reproduction. In the female, TLRs have been implicated in critical aspects of ovarian, endometrial and placental function, as well as in ovarian cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, intrauterine growth restriction, pre-eclampsia and preterm birth. In the male, TLRs appear to play a role in the control of testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in disease and, potentially, during normal function, as well. Recent studies also have begun to highlight the role of various TLRs in the aetiology of prostatitis and prostatic cancer. Given the nascent state of knowledge concerning this important area, it is clear that more studies are needed, which should provide valuable new insights into the biology of the TLRs and reproductive function in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Girling
- Centre for Women's Health Research, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
PROBLEM Uterine NK cells have a unique phenotype compared with blood NK cell subsets, yet little is known about how NK cells function as a part of the innate immune cell network in the female reproductive tract. METHOD OF STUDY The expression of key receptors and function of uterine NK cells in response to cytokines, sex hormones, and pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) was analyzed. This article summarizes recent findings on the biology and function of NK cells in the female reproductive tract. RESULTS Uterine NK cells express Toll-like receptors and respond to cytokines and PAMPs under specific conditions. Evidence indicates that NK cells play an important role in the reorganization of blood vessels during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Human uterine NK cells are a major population of leukocytes in the endometrium and play an important role as a component of host defense and in successful reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles L Sentman
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Eriksson M, Meadows SK, Wira CR, Sentman CL. Endogenous Transforming Growth Factor-? Inhibits Toll-Like Receptor Mediated Activation of Human Uterine Natural Killer Cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2006; 56:321-8. [PMID: 17076676 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2006.00432.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognition is an important means for the innate immune system to rapidly respond to pathogen invasion. Our aim was to determine whether uterine natural killer (uNK) cell cytokine production induced by stimulation through TLRs could be regulated by endogenous transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta in human endometrium. METHOD OF STUDY Single cells were isolated from human endometrium, and interferon (IFN)-gamma production by endometrium cells and uNK cells was determined after stimulation by TLR agonists. The role of TGF-beta in regulating this response was tested by blocking TGF-beta function using antibodies or a specific inhibitor, SB431542. RESULTS TGF-beta blockade increased TLR agonist induced IFN-gamma by uNK cells. The regulation of uNK cell cytokine production was observed when uNK cells were incubated with agonists for TLR2 (PGN) or TLR3 (polyI:C). Blockade of TGF-beta or TGF-beta receptor signaling had no effect on constitutive cytokine production in the absence of TLR agonists. CONCLUSION The results indicate that endogenous TGF-beta alters cytokine responses of uNK cells in human endometrium in response to TLR agonists. These data suggest that uNK cell responses to microbial pathogens in the endometrium are regulated by the amount of biologically active TGF-beta present within the human endometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Eriksson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|