1
|
Wang M, Yang J, Fang X, Lin W, Yang Y. Membranous nephropathy: pathogenesis and treatments. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e614. [PMID: 38948114 PMCID: PMC11214595 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN), an autoimmune disease, can manifest at any age and is among the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults. In 80% of cases, the specific etiology of MN remains unknown, while the remaining cases are linked to drug use or underlying conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus, hepatitis B virus, or malignancy. Although about one-third of patients may achieve spontaneous complete or partial remission with conservative management, another third face an elevated risk of disease progression, potentially leading to end-stage renal disease within 10 years. The identification of phospholipase A2 receptor as the primary target antigen in MN has brought about a significant shift in disease management and monitoring. This review explores recent advancements in the pathophysiology of MN, encompassing pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and prognosis, with a focus on emerging developments in pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies aimed at halting disease progression. By synthesizing the latest research findings and clinical insights, this review seeks to contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance our understanding and management of this challenging autoimmune disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengqiong Wang
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| | - Jingjuan Yang
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| | - Weiqiang Lin
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of NephrologyCenter for Regeneration and Aging MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicineand International School of Medicine, International Institutes of MedicineZhejiang UniversityYiwuChina
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Uchida T, Oda T. The Prevalence, Characteristics, and Putative Mechanisms of Dual Antigen-Positive Membranous Nephropathy: The Underestimated Condition. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5931. [PMID: 38892120 PMCID: PMC11172907 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Following the discovery of podocyte phospholipase A2 receptor and thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing 7A, various potential target antigens for membranous nephropathy (MN) have been reported one after another. MN target antigens have now been identified in a significant proportion of patients, and a new classification framework classifies patients with MN based on the detected antigen and associated disease phenotype. A serology-based approach that does not require a histological diagnosis for patients suspected of having MN has also been proposed. However, there have been cases in which dual positivity for MN antigens and/or corresponding antibodies has been shown. Importantly, some of them showed a transition of the affected patient's immune responses to MN antigens, suggesting that serological diagnosis changes depending on the timing of the analysis. In this review, we provide detailed information on these cases and present an overview of our recent understanding of their putative mechanisms involved in these cases. Greater awareness is required to adequately recognize and develop appropriate therapeutic strategies for this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Takashi Oda
- Department of Nephrology and Blood Purification, Kidney Disease Center, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, Hachioji 193-0998, Japan;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fehmi J, Davies AJ, Antonelou M, Keddie S, Pikkupeura S, Querol L, Delmont E, Cortese A, Franciotta D, Persson S, Barratt J, Pepper R, Farinha F, Rahman A, Canetti D, Gilbertson JA, Rendell NB, Radunovic A, Minton T, Fuller G, Murphy SM, Carr AS, Reilly MR, Eftimov F, Wieske L, Teunissen CE, Roberts ISD, Ashman N, Salama AD, Rinaldi S. Contactin-1 links autoimmune neuropathy and membranous glomerulonephritis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281156. [PMID: 36893151 PMCID: PMC9997925 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) is a common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults, mediated by glomerular antibody deposition to an increasing number of newly recognised antigens. Previous case reports have suggested an association between patients with anti-contactin-1 (CNTN1)-mediated neuropathies and MGN. In an observational study we investigated the pathobiology and extent of this potential cause of MGN by examining the association of antibodies against CNTN1 with the clinical features of a cohort of 468 patients with suspected immune-mediated neuropathies, 295 with idiopathic MGN, and 256 controls. Neuronal and glomerular binding of patient IgG, serum CNTN1 antibody and protein levels, as well as immune-complex deposition were determined. We identified 15 patients with immune-mediated neuropathy and concurrent nephrotic syndrome (biopsy proven MGN in 12/12), and 4 patients with isolated MGN from an idiopathic MGN cohort, all seropositive for IgG4 CNTN1 antibodies. CNTN1-containing immune complexes were found in the renal glomeruli of patients with CNTN1 antibodies, but not in control kidneys. CNTN1 peptides were identified in glomeruli by mass spectroscopy. CNTN1 seropositive patients were largely resistant to first-line neuropathy treatments but achieved a good outcome with escalation therapies. Neurological and renal function improved in parallel with suppressed antibody titres. The reason for isolated MGN without clinical neuropathy is unclear. We show that CNTN1, found in peripheral nerves and kidney glomeruli, is a common target for autoantibody-mediated pathology and may account for between 1 and 2% of idiopathic MGN cases. Greater awareness of this cross-system syndrome should facilitate earlier diagnosis and more timely use of effective treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janev Fehmi
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander J Davies
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Marilina Antonelou
- University College London Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Keddie
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery and Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sonja Pikkupeura
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Luis Querol
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Emilien Delmont
- Referral Centre for ALS and Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital La Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Andrea Cortese
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery and Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Brain and Behaviour sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Staffan Persson
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Pepper
- University College London Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Filipa Farinha
- Centre for Rheumatology and Bloomsbury Rheumatology Unit, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anisur Rahman
- Centre for Rheumatology and Bloomsbury Rheumatology Unit, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Diana Canetti
- Wolfson Drug Discovery Unit and National Amyloidosis Centre, Centre for Amyloidosis and Acute Phase Proteins, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet A Gilbertson
- Wolfson Drug Discovery Unit and National Amyloidosis Centre, Centre for Amyloidosis and Acute Phase Proteins, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel B Rendell
- Wolfson Drug Discovery Unit and National Amyloidosis Centre, Centre for Amyloidosis and Acute Phase Proteins, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aleksandar Radunovic
- Barts Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Minton
- Institute of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Geraint Fuller
- Department of Neurology, Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, Gloucester, United Kingdom
| | - Sinead M Murphy
- Department of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital & Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aisling S Carr
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery and Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mary R Reilly
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery and Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Filip Eftimov
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Luuk Wieske
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte E Teunissen
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ian S D Roberts
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Ashman
- Barts Renal Unit, The Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alan D Salama
- University College London Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Rinaldi
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chung EYM, Wang YM, Keung K, Hu M, McCarthy H, Wong G, Kairaitis L, Bose B, Harris DCH, Alexander SI. Membranous nephropathy: Clearer pathology and mechanisms identify potential strategies for treatment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1036249. [PMID: 36405681 PMCID: PMC9667740 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1036249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) is one of the common causes of adult-onset nephrotic syndrome and is characterized by autoantibodies against podocyte antigens causing in situ immune complex deposition. Much of our understanding of the disease mechanisms underpinning this kidney-limited autoimmune disease originally came from studies of Heymann nephritis, a rat model of PMN, where autoantibodies against megalin produced a similar disease phenotype though megalin is not implicated in human disease. In PMN, the major target antigen was identified to be M-type phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R) in 2009. Further utilization of mass spectrometry on immunoprecipitated glomerular extracts and laser micro dissected glomeruli has allowed the rapid discovery of other antigens (thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing protein 7A, neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein, semaphorin 3B, protocadherin 7, high temperature requirement A serine peptidase 1, netrin G1) targeted by autoantibodies in PMN. Despite these major advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of PMN, treatments remain non-specific, often ineffective, or toxic. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the immune mechanisms driving PMN from animal models and clinical studies, and the implications on the development of future targeted therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edmund Y. M. Chung
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Edmund Y. M. Chung,
| | - Yuan M. Wang
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Karen Keung
- Department of Nephrology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Min Hu
- The Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute of Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Hugh McCarthy
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Department of Nephrology, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Department of Nephrology, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Germaine Wong
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Department of Nephrology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Lukas Kairaitis
- Department of Nephrology, Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown, NSW, Australia
| | - Bhadran Bose
- Department of Nephrology, Nepean Hospital, Kingswood, NSW, Australia
| | - David C. H. Harris
- The Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute of Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Department of Nephrology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen I. Alexander
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Department of Nephrology, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Discovery of anti-Formin-like 1 protein (FMNL1) antibodies in membranous nephropathy and other glomerular diseases. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13659. [PMID: 35953506 PMCID: PMC9372176 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17696-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence has shown that podocyte-directed autoantibodies can cause membranous nephropathy (MN). In the present work we investigated sera of MN patients using a high-density peptide array covering the whole coding sequences of the human genome encompassing 7,499,126 tiled peptides. A panel of 21 proteins reactive to MN sera were identified. We focused our attention on Formin-like 1 (FMNL1), a protein expressed by macrophages in MN patients tissues. High levels of anti-FMNL1 IgG4 were demonstrated in sera of MN patients with an orthogonal methodology (ELISA) contemporary demonstrating FMNL1 positive cells in kidney co-staining with CD68 in glomeruli. High levels of circulating anti-FMNL1 IgG4 were associated with lack of remission of proteinuria, potentially indicating that autoantibodies directed against cells other than podocytes, involved in tissue repair, might play a role in MN disease progression. High serum levels of anti-FMNL1 IgGs were also observed in other non-autoimmune glomerolonephrites, i.e. idiopathic and genetic FSGS, IgAGN. These findings are suggestive of a broader role of those autoantibodies in other glomerular disease conditions.
Collapse
|
6
|
Huang G, Liu F, Yu L, Wang J, Chen J, Mao J. Pediatric membranous nephropathy: In the novel antigens era. Front Immunol 2022; 13:962502. [PMID: 36016931 PMCID: PMC9396344 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.962502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) falls within the scope of a glomerular disease. MN exhibits subepithelial immune- complex deposition and capillary wall thickening which could occur in all age groups. In comparison with adult patients with MN, MN in pediatric population has a lower incidence and more secondary factors (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, infection, malignancy, or drug toxicity). Two target antigens for the immune complexes, PLA2R (identified in 2009) and THSD7A (in 2014), found in previous studies and first presented in adult MN, are found in pediatric patients suffering from MN and their antibodies are now an effective tool for diagnosis and monitoring in children and adolescents. Several novel antigens have been identified (e.g., EXT1/EXT2, NELL1, Sema3B, PCDH7, HTRA1, and NCAM1) over the past few years. Each of them represents different clinical and pathologic findings. In-depth research should be conducted to gain insights into the outcomes and pathophysiology of the above novel antigen-associated MN. Targeted treatment opinions for different novel antigen-related MN are under development both in adults and pediatric patients.
Collapse
|
7
|
Membranous nephropathy: new pathogenic mechanisms and their clinical implications. Nat Rev Nephrol 2022; 18:466-478. [PMID: 35484394 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-022-00564-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is characterized histomorphologically by the presence of immune deposits in the subepithelial space of the glomerular filtration barrier; its clinical hallmarks are nephrotic range proteinuria with oedema. In patients with primary MN, autoimmunity is driven by circulating autoantibodies that bind to one or more antigens on the surface of glomerular podocytes. Compared with other autoimmune kidney diseases, the understanding of the pathogenesis of MN has substantially improved in the past decade, thanks to the discovery of pathogenic circulating autoantibodies against phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R1) and thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing protein 7A (THSD7A). The subsequent identification of more proteins associated with MN, some of which are also endogenous podocyte antigens, might further advance the clinical characterization of MN, including its diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. Insights from studies in patients with MN, combined with the development of novel in vivo and in vitro experimental models, have potential to improve the management of patients with MN. Characterizing the interaction between autoimmunity and local glomerular lesions provides an opportunity to develop more specific, pathogenesis-based treatments.
Collapse
|
8
|
Smarz-Widelska I, Chojęta D, Kozioł MM. The Role of Anti-PLA 2R and Anti-THSD7A Antibodies in the Pathogenesis and Diagnostics of Primary Membranous Nephropathy: A Review of Current Knowledge for Clinical Practice. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095301. [PMID: 35564696 PMCID: PMC9104191 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) is considered a major cause of nephrotic syndrome. The discovery of circulating autoantibodies directed against glomerular podocytes helped to classify them as autoimmune diseases. Over the past years, there has been an increasing significance of anti-Phospholipase A2 Receptor (anti-PLA2R), which has been detected in 70–80% of PMN cases, and relevance of anti-Thrombospondin type I domain-containing 7A (anti-THSD7A) even though they are present in 2–5% of patients. The results of clinical and experimental studies indicate that these antibodies are pathogenic. It radically changed the diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Measurement of antibody titers in the serum seems to be a valuable tool for identifying PMN and for the assessment of disease activity. By monitoring pathogenic antibodies levels rather than proteinuria or reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as an indicator of glomerular disease, physicians would easier divide patients into those with active and inactive PMN disease and decide about their therapy. The aim of this review is to evaluate scientific evidence about the role of autoantibodies, namely anti-PLA2R and anti-THSD7A, as PMN biomarkers. The present manuscript focuses on PMN pathogenesis and key data of diagnosis, monitoring of the disease, and treatment strategies that are currently being used in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Smarz-Widelska
- Department of Nephrology, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski Provincial Hospital, 20-718 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Dariusz Chojęta
- Chair and Department of Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata M. Kozioł
- Chair and Department of Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xu X, Xiang T, Song S, Wu A, Liu L, Xu L, Xu C, Kuang H. Secretory expression and purification of recombinant PLA2R epitopes for the detection of anti-PLA2R autoantibody in serum. Analyst 2022; 147:965-974. [DOI: 10.1039/d2an00094f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) is a significant biomarker contributing to the clinical diagnosis of idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Xu
- State Key Lab of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Tongyue Xiang
- State Key Lab of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanshan Song
- State Key Lab of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Aihong Wu
- State Key Lab of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Liqiang Liu
- State Key Lab of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Liguang Xu
- State Key Lab of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuanlai Xu
- State Key Lab of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Kuang
- State Key Lab of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Based on the PubMed data, we have been performing a yearly evaluation of the publications related to autoimmune diseases and immunology to ascertain the relative weight of the former in the scientific literature. It is particularly intriguing to observe that despite the numerous new avenues of immune-related mechanisms, such as cancer immunotherapy, the proportion of immunology manuscripts related to autoimmunity continues to increase and has been approaching 20% in 2019. As in the previous 13 years, we performed an arbitrary selection of the peer-reviewed articles published by the major dedicated Journals and discussed the common themes which continue to outnumber peculiarites in autoimmune diseases. The investigated areas included systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), autoantibodies (autoAbs), and common therapeutic avenues and novel pathogenic mechanisms for autoimmune conditions. Some examples include new pathogenetic evidence which is well represented by IL21 or P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) in SLE or the application of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), mass cytometry, bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and flow cytometry for the analysis of different cellular populations in RA. Cumulatively and of interest to the clinicians, a large number of findings continue to underline the importance of a strict relationship between basic and clinical science to define new pathogenetic and therapeutic developments. The therapeutic pipeline in autoimmunity continues to grow and maintain a constant flow of new molecules, as well illustrated in RA and PsA, and this is most certainly derived from the new basic evidence and the high-throughput tools applied to autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
|
11
|
Li SS, Tang DE, Dai Y. Advances in antigens associated with Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy. J Formos Med Assoc 2021; 120:1941-1948. [PMID: 34244038 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2021.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. Idiopathic MN (IMN), one of the forms of MN, usually has an unknown etiology. IMN is described as an autoimmune disease, and its pathogenesis is quite complex. The discovery of the M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) plays an important role in promoting our understanding of IMN, although the exact mechanisms of its occurrence and development are still not completely clear. Other target antigens have been discovered one after another, as considerable progress has been made in the molecular pathomechanisms of IMN. Here, we review the findings about the target antigens associated with IMN in recent years. It is hoped that this article can provide researchers with some scientific issues or innovative ideas for future studies of IMN, which will provide clinicians with more knowledge about further improving their abilities to provide better medical care for IMN patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Shan Li
- 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, Guangdong 518020, China
| | - Dong-E Tang
- 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, Guangdong 518020, China.
| | - Yong Dai
- 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, Guangdong 518020, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lutz J. Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of membranous nephropathy. Nephrol Ther 2021; 17S:S1-S10. [PMID: 33910688 DOI: 10.1016/j.nephro.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Nephrotic syndrome is in adult patients mainly due to membranous nephropathy (MN) characterized by thickening of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and immune complex formation between podocytes and the GBM. Autoantibodies directed against the M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin 1 domain-containing 7 A (THSD7A) can be used as diagnostic biomarkers. THSD7A seems to be of direct pathogenic significance as is suggested by experimental models and plasmapheresis in humans. Recently, further antigens like NELL-1 (neural tissue encoding protein with EGF-like repeats-1), exostosin 1 and 2 have been discovered. Thus, MN should be classified into antibody positive and antibody negative MN. More specific immunosuppressive treatments directed against B-cells and antibody production like rituximab have been introduced in addition to already existing immunosuppressive protocols including steroids, chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide, and calcineurin inhibitors. Antibody removal using immunoadsorption or plasmapheresis leads to short-term reduction in proteinuria and might be indicated only in patients with very severe proteinuria and complications. Studies are needed to identify a more specific immunosuppression directed against the production and effects of autoantibodies in order to protect the kidneys from autoimmune mediated tissue damage and to identify patients who require an immunosuppressive treatment, as the remission rate is high in patients with MN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jens Lutz
- Medical Clinic, Nephrology-Infectious Diseases, Central Rhine hospital group, Gemeinschaftsklinikum Mittelrhein, Koblenzer Straße 115-155, 56073 Koblenz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mechanisms of Primary Membranous Nephropathy. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11040513. [PMID: 33808418 PMCID: PMC8065962 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is an autoimmune disease of the kidney glomerulus and one of the leading causes of nephrotic syndrome. The disease exhibits heterogenous outcomes with approximately 30% of cases progressing to end-stage renal disease. The clinical management of MN has steadily advanced owing to the identification of autoantibodies to the phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) in 2009 and thrombospondin domain-containing 7A (THSD7A) in 2014 on the podocyte surface. Approximately 50–80% and 3–5% of primary MN (PMN) cases are associated with either anti-PLA2R or anti-THSD7A antibodies, respectively. The presence of these autoantibodies is used for MN diagnosis; antibody levels correlate with disease severity and possess significant biomarker values in monitoring disease progression and treatment response. Importantly, both autoantibodies are causative to MN. Additionally, evidence is emerging that NELL-1 is associated with 5–10% of PMN cases that are PLA2R- and THSD7A-negative, which moves us one step closer to mapping out the full spectrum of PMN antigens. Recent developments suggest exostosin 1 (EXT1), EXT2, NELL-1, and contactin 1 (CNTN1) are associated with MN. Genetic factors and other mechanisms are in place to regulate these factors and may contribute to MN pathogenesis. This review will discuss recent developments over the past 5 years.
Collapse
|
14
|
Taylor S, Whitfield M, Barratt J, Didangelos A. The Metalloproteinase ADAMTS5 Is Expressed by Interstitial Inflammatory Cells in IgA Nephropathy and Is Proteolytically Active on the Kidney Matrix. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 205:2243-2254. [PMID: 32917786 PMCID: PMC7533710 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2000448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
ADAMTS5 is upregulated in human IgA nephropathy lesions. ADAMTS5 is related to inflammatory infiltrates in affected kidneys. ADAMTS5 digests kidney matrix proteins and cleaves complement C3 and fibronectin.
In IgA nephropathy (IgAN), IgA immune complexes are deposited in the mesangium and drive inflammation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling. The functional links between IgA deposition, inflammation, and matrix remodelling are not well characterized. We recently performed urine liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry proteomics and identified multiple ECM glycoproteins whose expression and function in IgAN is unclear. None of the urine glycoproteins was regulated in IgAN transcriptomics, indicating that tissue remodelling rather than increased expression might contribute to their presence in urine. To investigate this, we examined the IgAN expression profile of metalloproteinases, enzymes involved in the remodelling of ECM proteins, and noted that the proteoglycanase ADAMTS5 was upregulated in IgAN kidneys. ADAMTS5 accumulated in areas of inflammation, and ADAMTS5+ cells were seen in the tubulointerstitium and glomeruli. The enzyme was expressed by CD64+ cells and its expression was increased by IL-1 and LPS. Analysis of myeloid cell transcriptomics revealed that ADAMTS5 is enriched in human classical monocytes. ADAMTS5+ cells were present in areas of matrix remodelling and associated with ECM proteins lumican, versican, and collagen-4. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry proteomics of kidney explants digested with ADAMTS5, identified multiple kidney proteins affected by ADAMTS5 and revealed specific proteolysis of complement C3 and fibronectin associated with IgA on immune complexes. ADAMTS5 processing of immune complex proteins reduced binding to cultured mesangial cells. ADAMTS5 is associated with interstitial inflammatory cells in IgAN and other kidney lesions and fragments relevant extracellular proteins. The proteolytic enzyme might be a new translational target relevant to inflammation and scarring in kidney disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott Taylor
- Mayer IgA Nephropathy Laboratory, University of Leicester, LE1 7RH Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Molly Whitfield
- Mayer IgA Nephropathy Laboratory, University of Leicester, LE1 7RH Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Barratt
- Mayer IgA Nephropathy Laboratory, University of Leicester, LE1 7RH Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Athanasios Didangelos
- Mayer IgA Nephropathy Laboratory, University of Leicester, LE1 7RH Leicester, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Subramanian P, Kumar H, Tiwari B, Barwad A, Bagchi S, Bagga A, Agarwal SK, Dinda AK, Singh G. Profile of Indian Patients With Membranous Nephropathy. Kidney Int Rep 2020; 5:1551-1557. [PMID: 32954080 PMCID: PMC7486174 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2020.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The majority of primary membranous nephropathy (MN) cases are no longer considered idiopathic with the discovery of the podocytic autoantigens: phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A). Limited data on PLA2R-related MN in Indians exist in literature, and THSD7A-related MN remains undocumented in this population. We aimed to characterize the baseline PLA2R and THSD7A profile of adult and pediatric membranous nephropathy (MN) in a large Indian single-institution cohort. Methods A retrospective analysis of all cases of MN (primary and secondary) between 2014 and 2017 was performed with PLA2R direct immunofluorescence and THSD7A immunohistochemistry on the biopsies and anti-PLA2R enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) on baseline sera. Results MN constituted 10% of kidney biopsies received in the study period. A total of 216 cases with adequate tissue underwent PLA2R direct immunofluorescence, and 110 of them had available sera for PLA2R ELISA. Combining both testing methods, the prevalence of PLA2R-related primary MN was 72.8%, with moderate concordance between the 2 methods (kappa 0.61). PLA2R was also detected in 16.7% cases of secondary MN, most commonly lupus MN. THSD7A immunohistochemistry performed on 176 cases showed a prevalence of 3.4% in primary MN. One case of lupus MN was also positive for THSD7A. Dual positivity (PLA2R and THSD7A) was noted in 2 cases. The large pediatric cohort tested showed a prevalence of 44% of PLA2R based on tissue testing, whereas 1 case demonstrated THSD7A positivity. Conclusion This study in a large cohort of Indian patients demonstrates prevalence rates of PLA2R- and THSD7A-related MN similar to world literature, including the substantial cohort of pediatric MN. It also confirms variation in MN in the form of outliers within PLA2R (related to tissue and serum testing), dual positivity for PLA2R and THSD7A, and PLA2R/THSD7A-positive secondary MN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hemanth Kumar
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Bipin Tiwari
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Adarsh Barwad
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Soumita Bagchi
- Department of Nephrology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Arvind Bagga
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar Agarwal
- Department of Nephrology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Amit Kumar Dinda
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Geetika Singh
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cravedi P, Jarque M, Angeletti A, Favà À, Cantarelli C, Bestard O. Immune-Monitoring Disease Activity in Primary Membranous Nephropathy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2019; 6:241. [PMID: 31788474 PMCID: PMC6856075 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2019.00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary membranous nephropathy (MN) is a glomerular disease mediated by autoreactive antibodies, being the main cause of nephrotic syndrome among adult patients. While the pathogenesis of MN is still controversial, the detection of autoantibodies against two specific glomerular antigens, phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type 1 domain containing 7A (THSD7A), together with the beneficial effect of therapies targeting B cells, have highlighted the main role of autoreactive B cells driving this renal disease. In fact, the detection of PLA2R-specific IgG4 antibodies has resulted in a paradigm shift regarding the diagnosis as well as a better prediction of the progression and recurrence of primary MN. Nevertheless, some patients do not show remission of the nephrotic syndrome or do rapidly recur after immunosuppression withdrawal, regardless the absence of detectable anti-PLA2R antibodies, thus highlighting the need of other immune biomarkers for MN risk-stratification. Notably, the exclusive evaluation of circulating antibodies may significantly underestimate the magnitude of the global humoral memory immune response since it may exclude the role of antigen-specific memory B cells. Therefore, the assessment of PLA2R-specific B-cell immune responses using novel technologies in a functional manner may provide novel insight on the pathogenic mechanisms of B cells triggering MN as well as refine current immune-risk stratification solely based on circulating autoantibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Cravedi
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Marta Jarque
- Experimental Nephrology Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrea Angeletti
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), St. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Àlex Favà
- Experimental Nephrology Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Chiara Cantarelli
- UO Nefrologia, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Oriol Bestard
- Experimental Nephrology Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain.,Kidney Transplant Unit, Nephrology Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona University, Biomedical Research Institute of Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|