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Karmakar A, Kumar U, Prabhu S, Ravindran V, Nagaraju SP, Suryakanth VB, Prabhu MM, Karmakar S. Molecular profiling and therapeutic tailoring to address disease heterogeneity in systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:223. [PMID: 39294397 PMCID: PMC11410857 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01484-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, heterogeneous, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibody production, complement activation, and immune complex deposition. SLE predominantly affects young, middle-aged, and child-bearing women with episodes of flare-up and remission, although it affects males at a much lower frequency (female: male; 7:1 to 15:1). Technological and molecular advancements have helped in patient stratification and improved patient prognosis, morbidity, and treatment regimens overall, impacting quality of life. Despite several attempts to comprehend the pathogenesis of SLE, knowledge about the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this disease is still lacking. The current treatment options for SLE are pragmatic and aim to develop composite biomarkers for daily practice, which necessitates the robust development of novel treatment strategies and drugs targeting specific responsive pathways. In this communication, we review and aim to explore emerging therapeutic modalities, including multiomics-based approaches, rational drug design, and CAR-T-cell-based immunotherapy, for the management of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhibroto Karmakar
- Department of General Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Uma Kumar
- Department of Rheumatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Smitha Prabhu
- Department of Dermatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Vinod Ravindran
- Department of General Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy Higher Education, Manipal, India
- Department of Rheumatology, Centre for Rheumatology, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Shankar Prasad Nagaraju
- Department of Nephrology, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Varashree Bolar Suryakanth
- Department of Biochemistry, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Mukhyaprana M Prabhu
- Department of General Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy Higher Education, Manipal, India.
| | - Subhradip Karmakar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi, New Delhi, India.
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Nasa Y, Satake A, Tsuji R, Saito R, Tsubokura Y, Yoshimura H, Ito T. Concomitant use of interleukin-2 and tacrolimus suppresses follicular helper T cell proportion and exerts therapeutic effect against lupus nephritis in systemic lupus erythematosus-like chronic graft versus host disease. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1326066. [PMID: 38665907 PMCID: PMC11043470 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1326066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Defective interleukin-2 (IL-2) production contributes to immune system imbalance in patients with systemic erythematosus lupus (SLE). Recent clinical studies suggested that low-dose IL-2 treatment is beneficial for SLE and the therapeutic effect is associated with regulatory T cell (Treg) expansion. Pharmacological calcineurin inhibition induces a reduction in the number of Tregs because they require stimulation of T cell receptor signaling and IL-2 for optimal proliferation. However, the activation of T cell receptor signaling is partially dispensable for the expansion of Tregs, but not for that of conventional T cells if IL-2 is present. Aim We examined whether addition of IL-2 restores the Treg proportion even with concurrent use of a calcineurin inhibitor and if the follicular helper T cell (Tfh) proportion is reduced in an SLE-like murine chronic graft versus host disease model. Methods Using a parent-into-F1 model, we investigated the effect of IL-2 plus tacrolimus on Treg and Tfh proportions and the therapeutic effect. Results Treatment with a combination of IL-2 and tacrolimus significantly delayed the initiation of proteinuria and decreased the urinary protein concentration, whereas tacrolimus or IL-2 monotherapy did not significantly attenuate proteinuria. Phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, a positive regulator of Tfh differentiation, was reduced by combination treatment, whereas phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5, a negative regulator, was not reduced. Conclusion Addition of calcineurin inhibitors as adjunct agents may be beneficial for IL-2-based treatment of lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Atsushi Satake
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
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Huang X, Tan Y, Wu R, Li Q, Luo S. MicroRNA-98-5p Inhibits IFI44L-Mediated Differentiation of Dendritic Cells and Activation of Interferon Pathway in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Immunol Invest 2024; 53:475-489. [PMID: 38198612 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2023.2300346] [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: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNA-98-5p (miR-98-5p) plays a protective role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases through anti-inflammatory effects, but little is known about its role in Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Our previous study suggested Interferon-inducible 44 like (IFI44L) overexpressed in monocytes which contributes to the pathogenesis of SLE by enhancing the maturation and functions of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (Mo-DCs), and miR-98-5p can regulate the expression of IFI44L. In this study, we identified miR-98-5p lowly expressed in both peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and monocytes of SLE patients along with high expression of IFI44L. IFI44L serves as target gene of miR-98-5p which inhibits differentiation of Mo-DCs and IFI44L-mediated activation of interferon pathway. We further showed that miR-98-5p promotes methylation of the IFI44L promoter to down-regulate its expression in SLE. Our results reveal an important role for miR-98-5p in the IFI44L-mediated immune imbalance of SLE and suggest a potential therapeutic target for SLE in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Huang
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yixin Tan
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ruifang Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianwen Li
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shuaihantian Luo
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
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Liu C, Wang Y, Zhang YH, Yuan Z, Zhang Z, Zeng X, Guan Z, Bahabayi A, Lu S. Elevated Layilin-Positive Monocyte Levels in the Peripheral Blood of Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Reflect Their Autoimmune Status. Immunol Invest 2023; 52:879-896. [PMID: 37642473 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2023.2249531] [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] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of layilin (LAYN) in human circulating monocytes and lymphocytes and its clinical significance in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). METHODS Blood samples were collected from 51 SLE patients and 50 healthy controls. Flow cytometry was used to analyze LAYN in lymphocytes and monocyte subsets. Functionally characterized molecules including human HLA, CD74 and CD62L were studied in LAYN+ monocytes. A correlation analysis was conducted between LAYN-related subsets and clinical indicators of SLE such as anti-double-stranded DNA and complements levels. ROC curves were used to explore the potential clinical diagnostic value of LAYN in SLE. RESULTS LAYN was significantly higher in monocytes than in lymphocytes and higher in CD14+CD16+ monocytes than in CD14-CD16+ and CD14+CD16- monocytes. CD74 was upregulated and CD62L was downregulated in LAYN+ monocytes compared with LAYN- monocytes. The absolute number of LAYN+ monocytes was increased in SLE patients, and the median fluorescence intensity of HLA was decreased. LAYN+ monocytes were positively correlated with complement C4, while decreased CD62L+ percentages in LAYN+ monocytes were negatively correlated with C4. The ROC analysis revealed that the area under the curve (AUCs) for CD62L+ percentages in LAYN+ monocytes, LAYN+ lymphocyte numbers, and LAYN+ monocyte numbers to distinguish SLE from healthy individuals were 0.6245, 0.6196 and 0.6173, respectively. CONCLUSION LAYN is differentially expressed in monocytes and their subpopulations and has corresponding functional differences. Changes in LAYN expression on monocytes are associated with complement C4 levels in SLE patients. These suggest that LAYN may be involved in the pathogenesis of SLE. ABBREVIATION ANOVA: analysis of variance; anti-dsDNA: anti-double-stranded DNA; anti-ENA: anti-extractable nuclear antigen; anti-SSA: anti-Sjogren syndrome A; anti-SSB: anti-Sjogren syndrome B; anti-U1RNP: anti-U1 ribonucleoprotein; AUC: area under the ROC curve; CBC: complete blood count; CD62L: L-selectin; CD74/Ii: MHC class II invariant chain; CD44/HCAM: homing cell adhesion molecule; cMos: classical monocytes; CRP: C-reactive protein; CXCR2: C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 2; CXCR4: C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4; ESR: erythrocyte sedimentation rate; HCs: healthy controls; HA: hyaluronan; HLA: human leukocyte antigen; Ig: immunoglobulin; iMos: intermediate monocytes; LAYN: layilin; MFI: median fluorescence intensity; MIF: migration inhibitory factor; ncMos: nonclassical monocytes; PBMCs: peripheral blood mononuclear cells; ROC: receiver operating characteristic curve; SLE: systemic lupus erythematosus; SLEDAI, SLE disease activity index; Treg: regulatory T cells; WBCs: white blood cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yiying Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Hui Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zihang Yuan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zhonghui Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xingyue Zeng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Guan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ayibaota Bahabayi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Songsong Lu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
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Sibuh BZ, Quazi S, Panday H, Parashar R, Jha NK, Mathur R, Jha SK, Taneja P, Jha AK. The Emerging Role of Epigenetics in Metabolism and Endocrinology. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:256. [PMID: 36829533 PMCID: PMC9953656 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Each cell in a multicellular organism has its own phenotype despite sharing the same genome. Epigenetics is a somatic, heritable pattern of gene expression or cellular phenotype mediated by structural changes in chromatin that occur without altering the DNA sequence. Epigenetic modification is an important factor in determining the level and timing of gene expression in response to endogenous and exogenous stimuli. There is also growing evidence concerning the interaction between epigenetics and metabolism. Accordingly, several enzymes that consume vital metabolites as substrates or cofactors are used during the catalysis of epigenetic modification. Therefore, altered metabolism might lead to diseases and pathogenesis, including endocrine disorders and cancer. In addition, it has been demonstrated that epigenetic modification influences the endocrine system and immune response-related pathways. In this regard, epigenetic modification may impact the levels of hormones that are important in regulating growth, development, reproduction, energy balance, and metabolism. Altering the function of the endocrine system has negative health consequences. Furthermore, endocrine disruptors (EDC) have a significant impact on the endocrine system, causing the abnormal functioning of hormones and their receptors, resulting in various diseases and disorders. Overall, this review focuses on the impact of epigenetics on the endocrine system and its interaction with metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belay Zeleke Sibuh
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201310, India
| | - Sameer Quazi
- GenLab Biosolutions Private Limited, Bangalore 560043, India
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK
- Clinical Bioinformatics, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9P, UK
- SCAMT Institute, ITMO University, St. Petersburg 197101, Russia
| | - Hrithika Panday
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201310, India
| | - Ritika Parashar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201310, India
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201310, India
- School of Bioengineering & Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India
| | - Runjhun Mathur
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201310, India
| | - Saurabh Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201310, India
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied & Life Sciences (SALS), Uttaranchal University, Dehradun 248007, India
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, India
| | - Pankaj Taneja
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201310, India
| | - Abhimanyu Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida 201310, India
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Guan X, Chen B, Malhotra DK, Gohara AF, Dworkin LD, Gong R. Hematopoietic-specific melanocortin 1 receptor signaling protects against nephrotoxic serum nephritis and mediates the beneficial effect of melanocortin therapy. Kidney Int 2023; 103:331-342. [PMID: 36374665 PMCID: PMC10431720 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2022.09.025] [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: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin hormone system has emerged as a novel therapeutic target for treating refractory glomerular diseases. However, the role of hematopoietic melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) signaling remains unknown. Upon insult by rabbit nephrotoxic serum, MC1R null-mutant mice developed more severe crescentic glomerulonephritis than wild-type mice, marked by aggravated proteinuria, kidney dysfunction and histologic lesions. Melanocortin therapy, using Repository Corticotropin Injection (Acthar Gel), the pan-melanocortin receptor agonist NDP-MSH, or the MC1R agonist MS05, ameliorated experimental nephritis in wild-type mice but this effect was blunted in null mice. Exacerbated experimental nephritis in null mice was associated with increased glomerular deposition of autologous IgG and C5b-9, in parallel with higher circulating levels of autologous IgG2c and IgG3. Additionally, the Th1 immune response was potentiated in null mice with experimental nephritis, accompanied by diminished kidney FoxP3+ regulatory T cells. Kidney infiltration of macrophages was also augmented by MC1R deficiency with an enhanced M1 polarization. Moreover, adoptive transfer of syngeneic bone marrow-derived cells from wild-type mice mitigated experimental nephritis in null mice and restored the beneficial efficacy of melanocortins. Mechanistically, MC1R was expressed by diverse subsets of kidney leukocytes, including macrophages, T and B lymphocytes, and was inversely associated with the NFκB pathway, a key player in immune responses. MS05 attenuated the production of rabbit IgG-specific IgG2c and IgG3 in cultured wild-type splenocytes, and promoted M2 polarization in M1-primed wild-type macrophages, associated with NFκB inhibition. In contrast, in null splenocytes or macrophages, this effect of MS05 was barely detectable, but was mimicked by an NFκB inhibitor. Thus, hematopoietic MC1R signaling attenuates experimental nephritis and mediates the beneficial effect of melanocortin therapy via, in part, regulating the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejing Guan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA; The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Bohan Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA; The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA; Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Deepak K Malhotra
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Amira F Gohara
- Department of Pathology, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Lance D Dworkin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Rujun Gong
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA; The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA.
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Infante B, Mercuri S, Dello Strologo A, Franzin R, Catalano V, Troise D, Cataldo E, Pontrelli P, Alfieri C, Binda V, Frontini G, Netti GS, Ranieri E, Gesualdo L, Castellano G, Stallone G. Unraveling the Link between Interferon-α and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: From the Molecular Mechanisms to Target Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415998. [PMID: 36555640 PMCID: PMC9783870 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease with a wide range of clinical expressions. The kidney is often affected, usually within 5 years of the onset of SLE, and lupus nephropathy (LN) carries a high risk for increased morbidity. The clinical heterogeneity of the disease is accompanied by complex disturbances affecting the immune system with inflammation and tissue damage due to loss of tolerance to nuclear antigens and the deposition of immune complexes in tissues. Several studies have reported that in human SLE, there is an important role of the Type-I-interferons (INF) system suggested by the upregulation of INF-inducible genes observed in serial gene expression microarray studies. This review aims to describe the transduction pathways of Type-I-interferons, in particular INFα, and its immune-regulatory function in the pathogenesis of SLE and, in particular, in LN. In addition, recent novelties concerning biologic therapy in LN will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Infante
- Unit of Nephology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Silvia Mercuri
- Unit of Nephology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Andrea Dello Strologo
- Unit of Nephology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Rossana Franzin
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Valeria Catalano
- Unit of Clinical Pathology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Dario Troise
- Unit of Nephology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Emanuela Cataldo
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Pontrelli
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Carlo Alfieri
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Binda
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Frontini
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Stefano Netti
- Unit of Clinical Pathology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Elena Ranieri
- Unit of Clinical Pathology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Loreto Gesualdo
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castellano
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0255034551; Fax: +39-0255034550
| | - Giovanni Stallone
- Unit of Nephology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
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Nikolova-Ganeva K, Bradyanova S, Manoylov I, Boneva G, Tchorbanov A. Methyl- rich diet ameliorates lupus-like disease in MRL/lpr mice. Immunobiology 2022; 227:152282. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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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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Mei X, Jin H, Zhao M, Lu Q. Association of Immune-Related Genetic and Epigenetic Alterations with Lupus Nephritis. KIDNEY DISEASES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 8:286-296. [PMID: 36157263 PMCID: PMC9386430 DOI: 10.1159/000524937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The familial clustering phenomenon together with environmental influences indicates the presence of a genetic and epigenetic predisposition to systematic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Interestingly, regarding lupus nephritis (LN), the worst complication of SLE, mortality, and morbidity were not consistent with SLE in relation to sexuality and ethnicity. SUMMARY Genetic and epigenetic alterations in LN include genes and noncoding RNAs that are involved in antigen-presenting, complements, immune cell infiltration, interferon pathways, and so on. Once genetic or epigenetic change occurs alone or simultaneously, they will promote the formation of immune complexes with autoantibodies that target various autoantigens, which results in inflammatory cytokines and autoreactive immune cells colonizing renal tissues and contributing to LN. KEY MESSAGES Making additional checks for immunopathology-related heredity and epigenetic factors may lead to a more holistic perspective of LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaole Mei
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immunological Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Hui Jin
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immunological Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
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Wang Y, Xie X, Zhang C, Su M, Gao S, Wang J, Lu C, Lin Q, Lin J, Matucci-Cerinic M, Furst DE, Zhang G. Rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and primary Sjögren's syndrome shared megakaryocyte expansion in peripheral blood. Ann Rheum Dis 2022; 81:379-385. [PMID: 34462261 PMCID: PMC8862024 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-220066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) share many clinical manifestations and serological features. The aim of this study was to identify the common transcriptional profiling and composition of immune cells in peripheral blood in these autoimmune diseases (ADs). METHODS We analysed bulk RNA-seq data for enrichment of biological processes, transcription factors (TFs) and deconvolution-based immune cell types from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in 119 treatment-naive patients (41 RA, 38 pSS, 28 SLE and 12 polyautoimmunity) and 20 healthy controls. The single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) and flow cytometry had been performed to further define the immune cell subsets on PBMCs. RESULTS Similar transcriptional profiles and common gene expression signatures associated with nucleosome assembly and haemostasis were identified across RA, SLE, pSS and polyautoimmunity. Distinct TF ensembles and gene regulatory network were mainly enriched in haematopoiesis. The upregulated cell-lineage-specific TFs PBX1, GATA1, TAL1 and GFI1B demonstrated a strong gene expression signature of megakaryocyte (MK) expansion. Gene expression-based cell type enrichment revealed elevated MK composition, specifically, CD41b+CD42b+ and CD41b+CD61+ MKs were expanded, further confirmed by flow cytometry in these ADs. In scRNA-seq data, MKs were defined by TFs PBX1/GATA1/TAL1 and pre-T-cell antigen receptor gene, PTCRA. Cellular heterogeneity and a distinct immune subpopulation with functional enrichment of antigen presentation were observed in MKs. CONCLUSIONS The identification of MK expansion provided new insights into the peripheral immune cell atlas across RA, SLE, pSS and polyautoimmunity. Aberrant regulation of the MK expansion might contribute to the pathogenesis of these ADs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukai Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | - Xuezhen Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | - Chengpeng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Miaotong Su
- Department of Pathology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Sini Gao
- Department of Pathology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Pathology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Changhao Lu
- Department of Pathology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Qisheng Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | - Jianqun Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | | | - Daniel E Furst
- Rheumatology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Guohong Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
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12
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Yu H, Hong X, Wu H, Zheng F, Zeng Z, Dai W, Yin L, Liu D, Tang D, Dai Y. The Chromatin Accessibility Landscape of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus at Single-Cell Resolution. Front Immunol 2021; 12:641886. [PMID: 34084162 PMCID: PMC8168536 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.641886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease, and various immune cells are involved in the initiation, progression, and regulation of SLE. Our goal was to reveal the chromatin accessibility landscape of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in SLE patients at single-cell resolution and identify the transcription factors (TFs) that may drive abnormal immune responses. Methods The assay for transposase accessible chromatin in single-cell sequencing (scATAC-seq) method was applied to map the landscape of active regulatory DNA in immune cells from SLE patients at single-cell resolution, followed by clustering, peak annotation and motif analysis of PBMCs in SLE. Results Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were robustly clustered based on their types without using antibodies. We identified twenty patterns of TF activation that drive abnormal immune responses in SLE patients. Then, we observed ten genes that were highly associated with SLE pathogenesis by altering T cell activity. Finally, we found 12 key TFs regulating the above six genes (CD83, ELF4, ITPKB, RAB27A, RUNX3, and ZMIZ1) that may be related to SLE disease pathogenesis and were significantly enriched in SLE patients (p <0.05, FC >2). With qPCR experiments on CD83, ELF4, RUNX3, and ZMIZ1 in B cells, we observed a significant difference in the expression of genes (ELF4, RUNX3, and ZMIZ1), which were regulated by seven TFs (EWSR1-FLI1, MAF, MAFA, NFIB, NR2C2 (var. 2), TBX4, and TBX5). Meanwhile, the seven TFs showed highly accessible binding sites in SLE patients. Conclusions These results confirm the importance of using single-cell sequencing to uncover the real features of immune cells in SLE patients, reveal key TFs in SLE-PBMCs, and provide foundational insights relevant for epigenetic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Yu
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoping Hong
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease Precision Medicine, Shenzhen Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongwei Wu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fengping Zheng
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease Precision Medicine, Shenzhen Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhipeng Zeng
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease Precision Medicine, Shenzhen Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Weier Dai
- College of Natural Science, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Lianghong Yin
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dongzhou Liu
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease Precision Medicine, Shenzhen Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Donge Tang
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease Precision Medicine, Shenzhen Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong Dai
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease Precision Medicine, Shenzhen Engineering Research Center of Autoimmune Disease, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, China
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13
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Wardowska A. m6A RNA Methylation in Systemic Autoimmune Diseases-A New Target for Epigenetic-Based Therapy? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14030218. [PMID: 33807762 PMCID: PMC8001529 DOI: 10.3390/ph14030218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The general background of autoimmune diseases is a combination of genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors, that lead to defective immune reactions. This erroneous immune cell activation results in an excessive production of autoantibodies and prolonged inflammation. During recent years epigenetic mechanisms have been extensively studied as potential culprits of autoreactivity. Alike DNA and proteins, also RNA molecules are subjected to an extensive repertoire of chemical modifications. N6-methyladenosine is the most prevalent form of internal mRNA modification in eukaryotic cells and attracts increasing attention due to its contribution to human health and disease. Even though m6A is confirmed as an essential player in immune response, little is known about its role in autoimmunity. Only few data have been published up to date in the field of RNA methylome. Moreover, only selected autoimmune diseases have been studied in respect of m6A role in their pathogenesis. In this review, I attempt to present all available research data regarding m6A alterations in autoimmune disorders and appraise its role as a potential target for epigenetic-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wardowska
- Department of Embryology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
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14
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Chen XJ, Zhang H, Yang F, Liu Y, Chen G. DNA Methylation Sustains "Inflamed" Memory of Peripheral Immune Cells Aggravating Kidney Inflammatory Response in Chronic Kidney Disease. Front Physiol 2021; 12:637480. [PMID: 33737884 PMCID: PMC7962671 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.637480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has rapidly increased in the past decades. A progressive loss of kidney function characterizes a part of CKD even with intensive supportive treatment. Irrespective of its etiology, CKD progression is generally accompanied with the development of chronic kidney inflammation that is pathologically featured by the low-grade but chronic activation of recruited immune cells. Cumulative evidence support that aberrant DNA methylation pattern of diverse peripheral immune cells, including T cells and monocytes, is closely associated with CKD development in many chronic disease settings. The change of DNA methylation profile can sustain for a long time and affect the future genes expression in the circulating immune cells even after they migrate from the circulation into the involved kidney. It is of clinical interest to reveal the underlying mechanism of how altered DNA methylation regulates the intensity and the time length of the inflammatory response in the recruited effector cells. We and others recently demonstrated that altered DNA methylation occurs in peripheral immune cells and profoundly contributes to CKD development in systemic chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension. This review will summarize the current findings about the influence of aberrant DNA methylation on circulating immune cells and how it potentially determines the outcome of CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jun Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, China
| | - Guochun Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, China
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15
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Calcineurin and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: The Rationale for Using Calcineurin Inhibitors in the Treatment of Lupus Nephritis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031263. [PMID: 33514066 PMCID: PMC7865978 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with a broad spectrum of clinical presentations that can affect almost all organ systems. Lupus nephritis (LN) is a severe complication that affects approximately half of the systemic erythematosus lupus (SLE) patients, which significantly increases the morbidity and the mortality risk. LN is characterized by the accumulation of immune complexes, ultimately leading to renal failure. Aberrant activation of T cells plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of both SLE and LN and is involved in the production of inflammatory cytokines, the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the affected tissues and the co-stimulation of B cells. Calcineurin is a serine-threonine phosphatase that, as a consequence of the T cell hyperactivation, induces the production of inflammatory mediators. Moreover, calcineurin is also involved in the alterations of the podocyte phenotype, which contribute to proteinuria and kidney damage observed in LN patients. Therefore, calcineurin inhibitors have been postulated as a potential treatment strategy in LN, since they reduce T cell activation and promote podocyte cytoskeleton stabilization, both being key aspects in the development of LN. Here, we review the role of calcineurin in SLE and the latest findings about calcineurin inhibitors and their mechanisms of action in the treatment of LN.
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16
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González LA, Ugarte-Gil MF, Alarcón GS. Systemic lupus erythematosus: The search for the ideal biomarker. Lupus 2020; 30:181-203. [PMID: 33307987 DOI: 10.1177/0961203320979051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
During the last decades, there has been an increased interest in the discovery and validation of biomarkers that reliably reflect specific aspects of lupus. Although many biomarkers have been developed, few of them have been validated and used in clinical practice, but with unsatisfactory performances. Thus, there is still a need to rigorously validate many of these novel promising biomarkers in large-scale longitudinal studies and also identify better biomarkers not only for lupus diagnosis but also for monitoring and predicting upcoming flares and response to treatment. Besides serological biomarkers, urinary and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers have emerged for assessing both renal and central nervous system involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus, respectively. Also, novel omics techniques help us to understand the molecular basis of the disease and also allow the identification of novel biomarkers which may be potentially useful for guiding new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Alonso González
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad de Antioquia, Hospital Universitario de San Vicente Fundación, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Manuel Francisco Ugarte-Gil
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Guillermo Almenara Irigoyen, EsSalud, Lima, Perú.,School of Medicine, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Perú
| | - Graciela S Alarcón
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Perú
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17
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Guo G, Shi X, Wang H, Ye L, Tong X, Yan K, Ding N, Chen C, Zhang H, Xue X. Epitranscriptomic N4-Acetylcytidine Profiling in CD4 + T Cells of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:842. [PMID: 32984334 PMCID: PMC7483482 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The emerging epitranscriptome plays an essential role in autoimmune disease. As a novel mRNA modification, N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C) could promote mRNA stability and translational efficiency. However, whether epigenetic mechanisms of RNA ac4C modification are involved in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remains unclear. Herein, we detected eleven modifications in CD4+ T cells of SLE patients using mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Furthermore, using samples from four CD4+ T cell pools, we identified lower modification of ac4C mRNA in SLE patients as compared to that in healthy controls (HCs). Meanwhile, significantly lower mRNA acetyltransferase NAT10 expression was detected in lupus CD4+ T cells by RT-qPCR. We then illustrated the transcriptome-wide ac4C profile in CD4+ T cells of SLE patients by ac4C-RIP-Seq and found ac4C distribution in mRNA transcripts to be highly conserved and enriched in mRNA coding sequence regions. Using bioinformatics analysis, the 3879 and 4073 ac4C hyper-acetylated and hypoacetylated peaks found in SLE samples, respectively, were found to be significantly involved in SLE-related function enrichments, including multiple metabolic and transcription-related processes, ROS-induced cellular signaling, apoptosis signaling, and NF-κB signaling. Moreover, we demonstrated the ac4C-modified regulatory network of gene biological functions in lupus CD4+ T cells. Notably, we determined that the 26 upregulated genes with hyperacetylation played essential roles in autoimmune diseases and disease-related processes. Additionally, the unique ac4C-related transcripts, including USP18, GPX1, and RGL1, regulate mRNA catabolic processes and translational initiation. Our study identified novel dysregulated ac4C mRNAs associated with critical immune and inflammatory responses, that have translational potential in lupus CD4+ T cells. Hence, our findings reveal transcriptional significance and potential therapeutic targets of mRNA ac4C modifications in SLE pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangqiang Guo
- School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Shi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Huijing Wang
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lele Ye
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinya Tong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Kejing Yan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ning Ding
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chaosheng Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Huidi Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiangyang Xue
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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