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Brüggemann Y, Klöhn M, Wedemeyer H, Steinmann E. Hepatitis E virus: from innate sensing to adaptive immune responses. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 21:710-725. [PMID: 39039260 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-024-00950-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections are a major cause of acute viral hepatitis in humans worldwide. In immunocompetent individuals, the majority of HEV infections remain asymptomatic and lead to spontaneous clearance of the virus, and only a minority of individuals with infection (5-16%) experience symptoms of acute viral hepatitis. However, HEV infections can cause up to 30% mortality in pregnant women, become chronic in immunocompromised patients and cause extrahepatic manifestations. A growing body of evidence suggests that the host immune response to infection with different HEV genotypes is a critical determinant of distinct HEV infection outcomes. In this Review, we summarize key components of the innate and adaptive immune responses to HEV, including the underlying immunological mechanisms of HEV associated with acute and chronic liver failure and interactions between T cell and B cell responses. In addition, we discuss the current status of vaccines against HEV and raise outstanding questions regarding the immune responses induced by HEV and treatment of the disease, highlighting areas for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Brüggemann
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Mara Klöhn
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Sites Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence RESIST (EXC 2155), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eike Steinmann
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), External Partner Site, Bochum, Germany.
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Imširović V, Wensveen FM, Polić B, Jelenčić V. Maintaining the Balance: Regulation of NK Cell Activity. Cells 2024; 13:1464. [PMID: 39273034 PMCID: PMC11393908 DOI: 10.3390/cells13171464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells, integral components of the innate immune system, play a crucial role in the protection against intracellular threats. Their cytotoxic power requires that activation is tightly controlled, and in this, they take a unique position within the immune system. Rather than depending on the engagement of a single activating receptor, their activation involves a delicate balance between inhibitory and activating signals mediated through an array of surface molecules. Only when this cumulative balance surpasses a specific threshold do NK cells initiate their activity. Remarkably, the activation threshold of NK cells remains robust even when cells express vastly different repertoires of inhibitory and activating receptors. These threshold values seem to be influenced by NK cell interactions with their environment during development and after release from the bone marrow. Understanding how NK cells integrate this intricate pattern of stimuli is an ongoing area of research, particularly relevant for cellular therapies seeking to harness the anti-cancer potential of these cells by modifying surface receptor expression. In this review, we will explore some of the current dogmas regarding NK cell activation and discuss recent literature addressing advances in our understanding of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanna Imširović
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Felix M Wensveen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Bojan Polić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Vedrana Jelenčić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
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Kupke P, Brucker J, Wettengel JM, Protzer U, Wenzel JJ, Schlitt HJ, Geissler EK, Werner JM. Cytokine Response of Natural Killer Cells to Hepatitis B Virus Infection Depends on Monocyte Co-Stimulation. Viruses 2024; 16:741. [PMID: 38793623 PMCID: PMC11125674 DOI: 10.3390/v16050741] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major driver of chronic hepatic inflammation, which regularly leads to liver cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. Immediate innate immune cell response is crucial for the rapid clearance of the infection. Here, natural killer (NK) cells play a pivotal role in direct cytotoxicity and the secretion of antiviral cytokines as well as regulatory function. The aim of this study was to further elucidate NK cell responses triggered by an HBV infection. Therefore, we optimized HBV in vitro models that reliably stimulate NK cells using hepatocyte-like HepG2 cells expressing the Na+-taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) and HepaRG cells. Immune cells were acquired from healthy platelet donors. Initially, HepG2-NTCP cells demonstrated higher viral replication compared to HepaRG cells. Co-cultures with immune cells revealed increased production of interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α by NK cells, which was no longer evident in isolated NK cells. Likewise, the depletion of monocytes and spatial separation from target cells led to the absence of the antiviral cytokine production of NK cells. Eventually, the combined co-culture of isolated NK cells and monocytes led to a sufficient cytokine response of NK cells, which was also apparent when communication between the two immune cell subpopulations was restricted to soluble factors. In summary, our study demonstrates antiviral cytokine production by NK cells in response to HBV+ HepG2-NTCP cells, which is dependent on monocyte bystander activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kupke
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Johanna Brucker
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jochen M. Wettengel
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine and Health/Helmholtz Munich, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Site, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine and Health/Helmholtz Munich, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Site, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Jürgen J. Wenzel
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Hans J. Schlitt
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Edward K. Geissler
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jens M. Werner
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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4
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Shin H, Lee HS, Noh JY, Koh JY, Kim SY, Park J, Chung SW, Hur MH, Park MK, Lee YB, Kim YJ, Yoon JH, Ko JH, Peck KR, Song JY, Shin EC, Lee JH. COVID-19 Vaccination Alters NK Cell Dynamics and Transiently Reduces HBsAg Titers Among Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B. Immune Netw 2023; 23:e39. [PMID: 37970236 PMCID: PMC10643334 DOI: 10.4110/in.2023.23.e39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination may non-specifically alter the host immune system. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on hepatitis B surface Ag (HBsAg) titer and host immunity in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. Consecutive 2,797 CHB patients who had serial HBsAg measurements during antiviral treatment were included in this study. Changes in the HBsAg levels after COVID-19 vaccination were analyzed. The dynamics of NK cells following COVID-19 vaccination were also examined using serial blood samples collected prospectively from 25 healthy volunteers. Vaccinated CHB patients (n=2,329) had significantly lower HBsAg levels 1-30 days post-vaccination compared to baseline (median, -21.4 IU/ml from baseline), but the levels reverted to baseline by 91-180 days (median, -3.8 IU/ml). The velocity of the HBsAg decline was transiently accelerated within 30 days after vaccination (median velocity: -0.06, -0.39, and -0.04 log10 IU/ml/year in pre-vaccination period, days 1-30, and days 31-90, respectively). In contrast, unvaccinated patients (n=468) had no change in HBsAg levels. Flow cytometric analysis showed that the frequency of NK cells expressing NKG2A, an NK inhibitory receptor, significantly decreased within 7 days after the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine (median, -13.1% from baseline; p<0.001). The decrease in the frequency of NKG2A+ NK cells was observed in the CD56dimCD16+ NK cell population regardless of type of COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccination leads to a rapid, transient decline in HBsAg titer and a decrease in the frequency of NKG2A+ NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunjae Shin
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Ha Seok Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Ji Yun Noh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea
| | - June-Young Koh
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - So-Young Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Jeayeon Park
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Sung Won Chung
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Moon Haeng Hur
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Min Kyung Park
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Yun Bin Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Yoon Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Jae-Hoon Ko
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 16419, Korea
| | - Kyong Ran Peck
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 16419, Korea
| | - Joon Young Song
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea
| | - Eui-Cheol Shin
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
- The Center for Viral Immunology, Korea Virus Research Institute, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon 34126, Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
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Kupke P, Adenugba A, Schemmerer M, Bitterer F, Schlitt HJ, Geissler EK, Wenzel JJ, Werner JM. Immunomodulation of Natural Killer Cell Function by Ribavirin Involves TYK-2 Activation and Subsequent Increased IFN-γ Secretion in the Context of In Vitro Hepatitis E Virus Infection. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030453. [PMID: 36766795 PMCID: PMC9913562 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030453] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute hepatitis globally. Chronic and fulminant courses are observed especially in immunocompromised transplant recipients since administration of ribavirin (RBV) does not always lead to a sustained virologic response. By in vitro stimulation of NK cells through hepatoma cell lines inoculated with a full-length HEV and treatment with RBV, we analyzed the viral replication and cell response to further elucidate the mechanism of action of RBV on immune cells, especially NK cells, in the context of HEV infection. Co-culture of HEV-infected hepatoma cells with PBMCs and treatment with RBV both resulted in a decrease in viral replication, which in combination showed an additive effect. An analysis of NK cell functions after stimulation revealed evidence of reduced cytotoxicity by decreased TRAIL and CD107a degranulation. Simultaneously, IFN-ɣ production was significantly increased through the IL-12R pathway. Although there was no direct effect on the IL-12R subunits, downstream events starting with TYK-2 and subsequently pSTAT4 were upregulated. In conclusion, we showed that RBV has an immunomodulatory effect on the IL-12R pathway of NK cells via TYK-2. This subsequently leads to an enhanced IFN-ɣ response and thus, to an additive antiviral effect in the context of an in vitro HEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kupke
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Akinbami Adenugba
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Mathias Schemmerer
- National Consultant Laboratory for HAV and HEV, Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Florian Bitterer
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Hans J. Schlitt
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Edward K. Geissler
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen J. Wenzel
- National Consultant Laboratory for HAV and HEV, Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jens M. Werner
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Hall SAL, Burns GS, Mooney BJ, Millen R, Morris R, Vogrin S, Sundararajan V, Ratnam D, Levy MT, Lubel JS, Nicoll AJ, Strasser SI, Sievert W, Desmond PV, Ngu MC, Angus P, Sinclair M, Meredith C, Matthews G, Revill PA, Jackson K, Littlejohn M, Bowden S, Locarnini SA, Thompson AJ, Visvanathan K. Hepatitis B Virus Flares After Nucleot(s)ide Analogue Cessation Are Associated With Activation of Toll-Like Receptor Signaling Pathways. J Infect Dis 2022; 227:123-132. [PMID: 36108079 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We evaluated the patterns of peripheral Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling activity and the expression of TLRs and natural killer (NK) cell activation in a cohort of patients experiencing severe hepatitis flares after stopping nucleot(s)ide analogues (NAs) therapy. METHODS Samples were collected longitudinally from patients with chronic hepatitis B who were enrolled in a prospective study of NA discontinuation. Patients experiencing hepatitis flares were compared with patients with normal alanine aminotransferase. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were stimulated with TLR ligands and cytokine secretion in the cell culture supernatant measured. Expression of TLR2/4, NKG2D, NKp46, and triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM-1) on monocytes, NK, and NK-T cells was measured. RESULTS Seventeen patients with severe reactivation hepatitis flares were compared to 12 nonflare patients. Hepatitis flares were associated with increased activity of TLR2-8 and TLR9 signaling in PBMCs at the time of peak flare compared to baseline. Hepatitis flares were also associated with (1) upregulation of TLR2 and (2) TREM-1 receptor expression on NK. There were no differences at baseline between flare patients and nonflare patients. CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis flares off NA therapy have a significant innate inflammatory response with upregulation of TLR signaling on peripheral monocytes and TLR2 and TREM-1 expression on NK cells. This implicates the innate immune system in the immunopathogenesis of hepatitis B flares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A L Hall
- Gastroenterology Department of St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gareth S Burns
- Gastroenterology Department of St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Benjamin J Mooney
- Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rosemary Millen
- Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rachel Morris
- Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sara Vogrin
- Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Dilip Ratnam
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Miriam T Levy
- Gastroenterology Department of Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - John S Lubel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, The Alfred Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amanda J Nicoll
- Gastroenterology Department of Eastern Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Simone I Strasser
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - William Sievert
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul V Desmond
- Gastroenterology Department of St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Meng C Ngu
- Gastroenterology Department of Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Peter Angus
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marie Sinclair
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Gail Matthews
- Department of infectious Disease, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, SydneyAustralia
| | - Peter A Revill
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kathy Jackson
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret Littlejohn
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Scott Bowden
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephen A Locarnini
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexander J Thompson
- Gastroenterology Department of St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kumar Visvanathan
- Gastroenterology Department of St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
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Cao W, Lu H, Zhang L, Wang S, Deng W, Jiang T, Lin Y, Yang L, Bi X, Lu Y, Zhang L, Shen G, Liu R, Chang M, Wu S, Gao Y, Hao H, Xu M, Chen X, Hu L, Xie Y, Li M. Functional molecular expression of nature killer cells correlated to HBsAg clearance in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients during PEG-IFN α-2a therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1067362. [PMID: 36479104 PMCID: PMC9720173 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1067362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore whether the frequencies and functional molecules expression of Natural Killer cells (NK cells) are related to hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) disappearance in hepatitis B e envelope antigen (HBeAg)-positive patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) throughout peginterferon alpha-2a (PEG-IFN α-2a) treatment. Methods In this prospective research, HBeAg-positive patients with CHB received PEG-IFN α-2a treatment, completing 4-year follow-up. After PEG-IFN α-2a treatment, undetectable HBV DNA, HBsAg loss, and HBeAg disappearance were defined as functional cure. Proportions of NK, CD56dim, CD56bright, NKp46+, NKp46dim, NKp46high, and interferon alpha receptor 2 (IFNAR2)+ NK cells, and the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of NK cell surface receptors IFNAR2 and NKp46 were detected. Results 66 patients were enrolled into the study in which 17 patients obtained functional cure. At baseline, hepatitis B virus desoxyribose nucleic acid (HBV DNA) titer in patients with functional cure was remarkably lower than that in Non-functional cure group. Compared with baseline, HBV DNA levels, HBsAg levels, and HBeAg levels significantly declined at week 12 and 24 of therapy in patients with functional cure. At baseline, the negative correlation between CD56bright NK% and HBV DNA and the negative correlation between CD56dim NK% and HBV DNA was showed; CD56bright NK% and IFNAR2 MFI in patients with functional cure were remarkably higher than those in patients without functional cure. After therapy, CD56bright NK% and NKp46high NK% in patients with functional cure were higher than those in patients without functional cure. In Functional cure group, after 24 weeks of treatment NK%, CD56bright NK%, IFNAR2 MFI weakly increased, and NKp46high NK% and NKp46 MFI significantly increased, meanwhile, CD56dim NK% and NKp46dim NK% decreased. Only NKp46 MFI increased after therapy in patients without functional cure. Conclusion The lower HBV DNA load and the higher CD56bright NK% before therapy, and the higher the post-treatment CD56bright NK%, IFNAR2 MFI, NKp46high NK%, the easier to achieve functional cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihua Cao
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,Department of Infectious Diseases, Miyun Teaching Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Huihui Lu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wuhan Children’s Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Luxue Zhang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,Infectious Disease Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyu Wang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Deng
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanjie Lin
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyue Bi
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Lu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ge Shen
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruyu Liu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Min Chang
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuling Wu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanjiao Gao
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongxiao Hao
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mengjiao Xu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxue Chen
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Leiping Hu
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Xie
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,Department of Hepatology Division 2, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Minghui Li, ; Yao Xie,
| | - Minghui Li
- Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,Department of Hepatology Division 2, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Minghui Li, ; Yao Xie,
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8
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Tang X, Gan P, Huang S, Pan X, Wang R, Wang P, Xia H, Zeng X, Ren W, Shi L, Zhou X, Linghu E. The scientific progress and prospects of hepatitis C research from 2013 to 2022. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:7806-7819. [PMID: 36505327 PMCID: PMC9730086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Hepatitis C (HC) is a global health issue, with an estimated 350,000 people dying annually from this liver-related disease. This study determined the development trends and research hotspots regarding HC by investigating the related articles within the past ten years. METHODS Publications on HC were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) on June 6, 2022. Bibliometric visualization was conducted through VOSviewer and CiteSpace. Original articles and reviews served as the foundation for this analytical research. RESULTS Of the total 17,773 records of HC research published from 2013 to 2022, the top 1,000 articles were retrieved and distributed among 78 countries and 270 journals. The US, where 7 of the top 10 institutions were located, mainly contributed to the study (51.9%). Johns Hopkins University distributed the most related articles (45 articles). Hepatology (IF 2021 = 17.298) ranked first, with 109 articles in the top 10 journals. Dore GJ was the most productive author (40 articles). The keywords of sustained virologic response, therapy, sofosbuvir, cirrhosis, ledipasvir, and hepatocellular carcinoma offered hints regarding research hotspots. The burst keywords regarding the virus, like HCV, HIV, and care and intervention showed as research frontiers. CONCLUSIONS Treatment has been a trending topic in HC research, and future research may focus more on HCV and HIV co-infection, treatment, and elimination of HC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing, China,Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Peiling Gan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Shu Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The People’s Hospital of LianshuiHuaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ruiyu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Huifang Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinyi Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Wensen Ren
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xian Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Enqiang Linghu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing, China
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9
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Tao L, Ren X, Zhai W, Chen Z. Progress and Prospects of Non-Canonical NF-κB Signaling Pathway in the Regulation of Liver Diseases. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27134275. [PMID: 35807520 PMCID: PMC9268066 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27134275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-canonical nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway regulates many physiological and pathological processes, including liver homeostasis and diseases. Recent studies demonstrate that non-canonical NF-κB signaling pathway plays an essential role in hyperglycemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, liver regeneration, liver injury, autoimmune liver disease, viral hepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Small-molecule inhibitors targeting to non-canonical NF-κB signaling pathway have been developed and shown promising results in the treatment of liver injuries. Here, the recent advances and future prospects in understanding the roles of the non-canonical NF-κB signaling pathways in the regulation of liver diseases are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tao
- Emergency Department, 305 Hospital of People’s Liberation Army, Beijing 100017, China; (L.T.); (W.Z.)
| | - Xiaomeng Ren
- College of Pharmaceutical and Biology Engineering, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 110142, China
- Correspondence: (X.R.); (Z.C.); Tel.: +86-45186402029 (Z.C.)
| | - Wenhui Zhai
- Emergency Department, 305 Hospital of People’s Liberation Army, Beijing 100017, China; (L.T.); (W.Z.)
| | - Zheng Chen
- HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
- Correspondence: (X.R.); (Z.C.); Tel.: +86-45186402029 (Z.C.)
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10
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Wei Y, Bingyu W, Lei Y, Xingxing Y. The antifibrotic role of natural killer cells in liver fibrosis. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2022; 247:1235-1243. [PMID: 35475367 PMCID: PMC9379607 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221092672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the common pathological change of chronic liver diseases characterized by increased deposition of extracellular matrix and reduced matrix degradation. In response to liver injury caused by a variety of pathogenic agents, such as virus and alcohol, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are differentiated into myofibroblast-like cells and produce excessive collagens, thus resulting in fibrogenesis. Natural killer (NK) cells are the essential innate immune cells in the liver and generally control fibrosis by killing activated HSCs. This review briefly describes the fibrogenesis process and the phenotypic features of hepatic NK cells. Besides, it focuses on the antifibrotic mechanisms of NK cells and explores the potential of activating NK cells as a therapeutic strategy for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wei
- Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Wang Bingyu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yang Lei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yuan Xingxing
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China,Yuan Xingxing.
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11
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Zhang Y, Tong S, Li S, Wang X, Ren H, Yin W. Increased ILT2 expression contributes to dysfunction of CD56dimCD16+NK cells in chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Antiviral Res 2022; 205:105385. [DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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12
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Sajid M, Liu L, Sun C. The Dynamic Role of NK Cells in Liver Cancers: Role in HCC and HBV Associated HCC and Its Therapeutic Implications. Front Immunol 2022; 13:887186. [PMID: 35669776 PMCID: PMC9165341 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.887186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains an important complication of chronic liver disease, especially when cirrhosis occurs. Existing treatment strategies include surgery, loco-regional techniques, and chemotherapy. Natural killer cells are distinctive cytotoxic lymphocytes that play a vital role in fighting tumors and infections. As an important constituent of the innate immune system against cancer, phenotypic and functional deviations of NK cells have been demonstrated in HCC patients who also exhibit perturbation of the NK-activating receptor/ligand axis. The rate of recurrence of tumor-infiltrating and circulating NK cells are positively associated with survival benefits in HCC and have prognostic significance, suggesting that NK cell dysfunction is closely related to HCC progression. NK cells are the first-line effector cells of viral hepatitis and play a significant role by directly clearing virus-infected cells or by activating antigen-specific T cells by producing IFN-γ. In addition, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineered NK cells suggest an exclusive opportunity to produce CAR-NKs with several specificities with fewer side effects. In the present review, we comprehensively discuss the innate immune landscape of the liver, particularly NK cells, and the impact of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) on the function of NK cells and the biological function of HCC. Furthermore, the role of NK cells in HCC and HBV-induced HCC has also been comprehensively elaborated. We also elaborate on available NK cell-based immunotherapeutic approaches in HCC treatment and summarize current advancements in the treatment of HCC. This review will facilitate researchers to understand the importance of the innate immune landscape of NK cells and lead to devising innovative immunotherapeutic strategies for the systematic treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sajid
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Heifei, China
- Transplant and Immunology Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Lianxin Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Heifei, China
| | - Cheng Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Heifei, China
- Transplant and Immunology Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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13
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Modulation of Production of Th1/Th2 Cytokines in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and Neutrophils by Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Chronically Infected Patients. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111519. [PMID: 34832674 PMCID: PMC8624222 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111519] [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: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection on the cytokine production profiles of the peripheral blood monoculear cells (PBMC) and neutrophils in chronically naïve HCV-infected patients. Seventy-five genotype-4 naïve HCV-infected patients (HCV+) and healthy subjects (HCV-) were enrolled. The neutrophils and the PBMC were separated by density gradient sedimentation and stimulated with a mitogen. The culture supernatants were evaluated for levels of IFN-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12, and TNF-α using anti-cytokine antibody MACSPlex capture beads. The PBMC cytokine profiles of HCV+ patients showed significantly lower mean values for IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6, IL-9, and IL-10 (p < 0.0001) as compared to HCV- subjects. In contrast, HCV+ patients showed higher mean levels of PBMC cytokine values for IL-5 and TNF-α (p < 0.0001). As for neutrophils, HCV+ patients showed significantly lower mean levels of IFN-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-9, and IL-10 (p < 0.0001). In contrast, the neutrophils from HCV+ patients showed higher mean levels of IL-5, IL-12, and TNF-α (p < 0.0001). Th1-Th2 cytokine ratios suggested a lower Th1 bias in HCV+ subjects as compared to HCV- subjects. Our results suggest that chronic HCV infection brings about an immunomodulatory effect not only on neutrophils, but also to a lower extent on PBMCs.
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14
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Kupke P, Werner JM. Hepatitis E Virus Infection-Immune Responses to an Underestimated Global Threat. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092281. [PMID: 34571931 PMCID: PMC8468229 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with the hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the main ubiquitous causes for developing an acute hepatitis. Moreover, chronification plays a predominant role in immunocompromised patients such as transplant recipients with more frequent severe courses. Unfortunately, besides reduction of immunosuppression and off-label use of ribavirin or pegylated interferon alfa, there is currently no specific anti-viral treatment to prevent disease progression. So far, research on involved immune mechanisms induced by HEV is limited. It is very difficult to collect clinical samples especially from the early phase of infection since this is often asymptomatic. Nevertheless, it is certain that the outcome of HEV-infected patients correlates with the strength of the proceeding immune response. Several lymphoid cells have been identified in contributing either to disease progression or achieving sustained virologic response. In particular, a sufficient immune control by both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells is necessary to prevent chronic viral replication. Especially the mechanisms underlying fulminant courses are poorly understood. However, liver biopsies indicate the involvement of cytotoxic T cells in liver damage. In this review, we aimed to highlight different parts of the lymphoid immune response against HEV and point out questions that remain unanswered regarding this underestimated global threat.
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15
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Gobran ST, Ancuta P, Shoukry NH. A Tale of Two Viruses: Immunological Insights Into HCV/HIV Coinfection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:726419. [PMID: 34456931 PMCID: PMC8387722 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.726419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nearly 2.3 million individuals worldwide are coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Odds of HCV infection are six times higher in people living with HIV (PLWH) compared to their HIV-negative counterparts, with the highest prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) and men who have sex with men (MSM). HIV coinfection has a detrimental impact on the natural history of HCV, including higher rates of HCV persistence following acute infection, higher viral loads, and accelerated progression of liver fibrosis and development of end-stage liver disease compared to HCV monoinfection. Similarly, it has been reported that HCV coinfection impacts HIV disease progression in PLWH receiving anti-retroviral therapies (ART) where HCV coinfection negatively affects the homeostasis of CD4+ T cell counts and facilitates HIV replication and viral reservoir persistence. While ART does not cure HIV, direct acting antivirals (DAA) can now achieve HCV cure in nearly 95% of coinfected individuals. However, little is known about how HCV cure and the subsequent resolution of liver inflammation influence systemic immune activation, immune reconstitution and the latent HIV reservoir. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of HIV/HCV coinfection, the effects of HCV coinfection on HIV disease progression in the context of ART, the impact of HIV on HCV-associated liver morbidity, and the consequences of DAA-mediated HCV cure on immune reconstitution and HIV reservoir persistence in coinfected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaa T Gobran
- Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Petronela Ancuta
- Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Naglaa H Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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16
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A COVID-19 Overview and Potential Applications of Cell Therapy. Biologics 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/biologics1020011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has already reaped thousands of lives, although many scientific studies already showed the possibility of this scenario. Currently, further attention is provided to patients depicting comorbidities such as respiratory or immunocompromised diseases, hypertension, and diabetes, as these individuals show a worse prognosis. Cell therapies using stem cells and/or defense cells, combined or not with traditional treatment, could be an outstanding strategy for COVID-19 management since these treatments can act by modulating the immune system, reducing proliferation, and favoring the complete elimination of the virus. In this review, we highlight the main molecular characteristics of this novel coronavirus, as well as the main pathognomonic signs of COVID-19. Furthermore, possible cell therapies are pointed out to show alternative treatments against COVID-19 and its sequels.
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17
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Natural Killer Cells and T Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Viral Hepatitis: Current Status and Perspectives for Future Immunotherapeutic Approaches. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061332. [PMID: 34071188 PMCID: PMC8227136 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells account for 25–50% of the total number of hepatic lymphocytes, which implicates that NK cells play an important role in liver immunity. The frequencies of both circulating and tumor infiltrating NK cells are positively correlated with survival benefit in hepatocellular cancer (HCC) and have prognostic implications, which suggests that functional impairment in NK cells and HCC progression are strongly associated. In HCC, T cell exhaustion is accompanied by the interaction between immune checkpoint ligands and their receptors on tumor cells and antigen presenting cells (APC). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been shown to interfere with this interaction and have altered the therapeutic landscape of multiple cancer types including HCC. Immunotherapy with check-point inhibitors, aimed at rescuing T-cells from exhaustion, has been applied as first-line therapy for HCC. NK cells are the first line effectors in viral hepatitis and play an important role by directly eliminating virus infected cells or by activating antigen specific T cells through IFN-γ production. Furthermore, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered NK cells and T cells offer unique opportunities to create CAR-NK with multiple specificities learning from the experience gained with CAR-T cells with potentially less adverse effects. This review focus on the abnormalities of NK cells, T cells, and their functional impairment in patients with chronic viral hepatitis, which contributes to progression to hepatic malignancy. Furthermore, we discuss and summarize recent advances in the NK cell and T cell based immunotherapeutic approaches in HCC.
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18
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Natural Killer-Dendritic Cell Interactions in Liver Cancer: Implications for Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092184. [PMID: 34062821 PMCID: PMC8124166 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The reciprocal crosstalk between dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NK) cells plays a pivotal role in regulating immune defense against viruses and tumors. The Th-cell polarizing ability, cytokine-producing capacity, chemokine expression, and migration of DCs are regulated by activated NK cells. Conversely, the effector functions including lysis and cytokine production, proliferation, and migration of NK cells are influenced by close interactions with activated DCs. In this review, we explore the impact of DC–NK cell crosstalk and its therapeutic potential in immune control of liver malignances. Abstract Natural killer (NK) and dendritic cells (DCs) are innate immune cells that play a crucial role in anti-tumor immunity. NK cells kill tumor cells through direct cytotoxicity and cytokine secretion. DCs are needed for the activation of adaptive immune responses against tumor cells. Both NK cells and DCs are subdivided in several subsets endowed with specialized effector functions. Crosstalk between NK cells and DCs leads to the reciprocal control of their activation and polarization of immune responses. In this review, we describe the role of NK cells and DCs in liver cancer, focusing on the mechanisms involved in their reciprocal control and activation. In this context, intrahepatic NK cells and DCs present unique immunological features, due to the constant exposure to non-self-circulating antigens. These interactions might play a fundamental role in the pathology of primary liver cancer, namely hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Additionally, the implications of these immune changes are relevant from the perspective of improving the cancer immunotherapy strategies in HCC and ICC patients.
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19
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Tertiary Prevention of HCC in Chronic Hepatitis B or C Infected Patients. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071729. [PMID: 33917345 PMCID: PMC8038691 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence is the major obstacle concerning patients’ survival. Tertiary prevention by antiviral therapies could reduce HCC recurrence rate in both chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected patients. In chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, nucleos(t)ide analogues (Nuc) provide a more effective HCC tertiary prevention effect than an interferon (IFN)-based regimen. In chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients, the tertiary prevention effect by direct acting antiviral agents (DAAs) was reported non-inferior to that by IFN-based therapy. Chronic hepatitis C patients left untreated had the worst survival benefit as well as shorted recurrence-free interval than those treated by either type of antiviral regimen. Although the risk of HCC recurrence could only be decreased but not diminished by antiviral therapies due to host and microenvironmental factors beyond virus infection, antiviral therapy helps to preserve and improve liver function which makes multi-modality anticancer treatment feasible to improve survival. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks as a leading cause of common cancer and cancer-related death. The major etiology of HCC is due to chronic hepatitis virus including HBV and HCV infections. Scheduled HCC surveillance in high risk populations improves the early detection rate and the feasibility of curative treatment. However, high HCC recurrence rate still accounts for the poor prognosis of HCC patients. In this article, we critically review the pathogenesis of viral hepatitis-related hepatocellular carcinoma and the evidence of tertiary prevention efficacy by current available antiviral treatment, and discuss the knowledge gap in viral hepatitis-related HCC tertiary prevention.
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20
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Ragab D, Samaha D, Mohamed N, Rafik M, Abdel Hady W. Chronic hepatitis C virus infection impairs natural killer cells-dendritic cells cross-talk: An in vitro culture study. Microbiol Immunol 2021; 65:76-84. [PMID: 33150993 DOI: 10.1111/1348-0421.12858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
To examine the cross-talk between NK cells and DCs in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, we isolated monocytes and NK cells from 20 chronic HCV patients and 20 healthy controls. Monocytes were used to generate immature DCs which were pulsed with HCV peptides (core, NS3-NS4, and NS5). Four different cocultures were carried out: E1, both DCs and NK cells were from a chronic HCV patient; E2, NK cells from a healthy control cocultured with DCs from a chronic HCV patient; E3, NK cells from a chronic HCV patient cocultured with DCs from a healthy control; and E4, both DCs and NK cells were from a healthy control. Using flow cytometry, we assessed the effect of these different cocultures on levels of maturation markers on DCs and levels of activation/inhibition markers on NK cells. Results showed that peptide-pulsed HCV DCs showed a maturation defect in the form of decreased HLA-DR, decreased CD86, and increased CD83 expression especially when cocultured with HCV NK. This was mainly due to core peptide pulsing and to a lesser extent due to NS5 pulsing, whereas there was no effect with NS3-NS4 pulsing. Alternatively, HCV NK cells upregulated both activation and inhibition markers especially when cocultured with healthy DCs. Compared with E2, E1 resulted in higher apoptosis of both NK cells and DCs with the percentage of NK apoptosis higher than that of DCs. Taken together, the data indicate that HCV infection impairs NK-DC cross-talk which may be a leading cause in viral persistence and chronicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Ragab
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dalia Samaha
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nesrine Mohamed
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona Rafik
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Walid Abdel Hady
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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21
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Ribavirin Improves NK Cell IFNγ Response During Sofosbuvir-based DAA Therapy in CV-infected Liver Transplant Recipients. Transplantation 2020; 105:2226-2238. [PMID: 33587435 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is characterized by activation of natural killer (NK) cells. Here, we asked whether HCV-elimination by sofosbuvir-based direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and addition of RBV improves NK cell function in liver transplant (LTx) recipients. METHODS We analyzed NK cell degranulation and IFNγ-response along with STAT-1 and STAT-4 phosphorylation in 29 HCV-infected LTx-recipients and 17 HCV-infected patients during DAA-treatment. RESULTS Compared to uninfected LTx-recipients, NK cells from HCV-infected LTx-recipients were polarized towards cytotoxicity with increased CD107a-degranulation (10.1% vs 14.6%; P=0.0263) and reduced capacity to produce IFNγ (43.0% vs 26.7%; P=0.0002). The altered phenotype of NK cells in HCV-infected LTx-recipients was accompanied by increased STAT-1 (44.6% vs 87.4%; P<0.0001) and STAT-1 phosphorylation (0.7% vs 8.9%; P=0.0005) compared to pSTAT-4 IFNα-induction (29.9% vs 17.6%; P=0.0014). Successful DAA-therapy did not affect CD107a-degranulation, but decreased STAT-1. RBV cotreatment with DAA-therapy for HCV increased CD56Bright NK cell IFNγ-responses in LTx-recipients (70.9% vs 89.2%; P=0.002) and this correlated to an increase in the inducibility of pSTAT-4 (MFI 157 vs 173; P=0.0002). CONCLUSION RBV cotreatment of HCV-infection improved pSTAT4-dependent IFNγ-production in NK cells. This is relevant especially for immunocompromised patients such as LTx-recipients or patients with end-stage liver disease.
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22
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Immune system control of hepatitis C virus infection. Curr Opin Virol 2020; 46:36-44. [PMID: 33137689 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a global public health problem even though more than 95% of infections can be cured by treatment with direct-acting antiviral agents. Resolution of viremia post antiviral therapy does not lead to protective immunity and therefore reinfections can occur. Immune cell detection of HCV activates signaling pathways that produce interferons and trigger the innate immune response against the virus, preventing HCV replication and spread. Cells in the innate immune system, including natural killer, dendritic, and Kupffer cells, interact with infected hepatocytes and present viral antigens to T and B cells where their effector responses contribute to infection outcome. Despite the immune activation, HCV can evade the host response and establish persistent infection. Plans to understand the correlates of protection and strategies to activate proper innate and adaptive immune responses are needed for development of an effective prophylactic vaccine that stimulates protective immunity and limits HCV transmission.
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23
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Perpiñán E, Pérez-Del-Pulgar S, Londoño MC, Mariño Z, Bartres C, González P, García-López M, Pose E, Lens S, Maini MK, Forns X, Koutsoudakis G. Cirrhosis Hampers Early and Rapid Normalization of Natural Killer Cell Phenotype and Function in Hepatitis C Patients Undergoing Interferon-Free Therapy. Front Immunol 2020; 11:129. [PMID: 32161581 PMCID: PMC7052355 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection impairs natural killer (NK) cell phenotype and function. Whether restoration of NK cells occurs after successful interferon (IFN)-free therapies remains a controversial issue. Aim: To analyze how HCV-related liver cirrhosis impacts changes in NK cells prior and post-IFN-free therapies. Methods: NK cell analysis by multicolor flow cytometry was performed in HCV-infected patients with (n = 17) and without (n = 14) cirrhosis at baseline, week 4 during therapy, and weeks 12 and 48 after the end of therapy (FU12 and FU48, respectively). Non-HCV cirrhotic patients (n = 12) and healthy individuals (n = 12) served as controls. Results: At baseline, HCV cirrhotic patients presented an altered distribution of NK subsets (CD56dim and CD56bright) with higher expression of NKp46, HLA-DR, NKp30, KIR2DL2/L3, NKG2A, and CD85j receptors compared to healthy controls. All frequencies normalized by FU48, except for CD85j+ cells. Likewise, substantial alterations were detected in NK cell function assessed by (i) signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and phosphorylated levels of STAT1 and STAT4, (ii) degranulation (CD107a), (iii) cytotoxicity [tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)], and (iv) cytokine production [IFN-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)]. Of note, NK cell function at FU48 remained partially impaired. In contrast, non-cirrhotics showed normal baseline frequencies of HLA-DR-, NKG2A-, and CD85j-expressing NK cells. Importantly, altered baseline frequencies of NK cell subsets and NKp46+ CD56dim cells, as well as NK cell function, were rapidly and completely restored. Conclusions: NK cell phenotype alterations persist after HCV eradication in cirrhotic patients, while their function is only partially restored, compromising immune restoration and immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Perpiñán
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sofía Pérez-Del-Pulgar
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María-Carlota Londoño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Zoe Mariño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Concepción Bartres
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia González
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia García-López
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa Pose
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabela Lens
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mala K. Maini
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Xavier Forns
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - George Koutsoudakis
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
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Rabaan AA, Al-Ahmed SH, Bazzi AM, Alfouzan WA, Alsuliman SA, Aldrazi FA, Haque S. Overview of hepatitis C infection, molecular biology, and new treatment. J Infect Public Health 2019; 13:773-783. [PMID: 31870632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2019.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization estimates that 71 million people worldwide have chronic hepatitis C viral infection. A major challenge is overall lack of public awareness of hepatitis C, particularly among infected people of their infection status. Chronic hepatitis C infection is associated with advanced liver disease, is the main cause of hepatocellular carcinoma and causes many extra-hepatic manifestations. The existence of seven viral genotypes complicates targeting of treatment. Recent years have seen the approval of many direct acting antivirals targeted at hepatitis C virus non-structural proteins. These have revolutionized therapy as they allow achievement of extremely high sustained virologic responses. Of great significance is the development of pan-genotypic drug combinations, including the NS3/4A-NS5A inhibitor combinations sofosbuvir-velpatasvir and glecaprevir-pibrentasvir. However, resistance-associated mutations can result in failure of these treatments in a small number of patients. This, combined with the high costs of treatment, highlights the importance of continued research into effective anti-hepatitis C therapies, for example aimed at viral entry. Recent developments include identification of the potential of low-cost anti-histamines for repurposing as inhibitors of hepatitis C viral entry. In this review we focus on molecular biology of hepatitis C virus, and the new developments in hepatitis C treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Shamsah H Al-Ahmed
- Specialty Paediatric Medicine, Qatif Central Hospital, Qatif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali M Bazzi
- Microbiology Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wadha A Alfouzan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Safat 13110, Kuwait; Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Dasma 35153, Kuwait
| | - Shahab A Alsuliman
- Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Department, Dammam Medical Complex, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah A Aldrazi
- Infection Control Department, Dammam Medical Complex, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
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Abulizi A, Shao Y, Aji T, Li Z, Zhang C, Aini A, Wang H, Tuxun T, Li L, Zhang N, Lin R, Wen H. Echinococcus multilocularis inoculation induces NK cell functional decrease through high expression of NKG2A in C57BL/6 mice. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:792. [PMID: 31500589 PMCID: PMC6734356 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4417-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus multilocularis (E. multilocularis), and considered as public health issue. Parasite-host immune interaction is pivotal during infection. As a subset of innate lymphoid cells, NK cells are known to play an important role during virus, bacteria, intra/extracellular parasitic infections and tumor progression. However, the possible role of NK cells in E. multilocularis infection in both human and murine is little known. Herein, the functional alteration of hepatic NK cells and their related molecules in E. multilocularis infected mice were studied. METHODS 2000 protoscoleces (PSCs) were injected to C57BL/6 mice via the portal vein to establish secondary E. multilocularis infection. NK cells population and their related molecules (CD69, Ly49D, Ly49G2, Ly49H, Ly49I, NKG2A, NKG2D, granzyme B, IFN-γ, TNF-α) were assessed by using fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) techniques and qRT-PCR. NK cell depletion was performed for further understanding the possible function of NK cells during infection. RESULTS The total frequencies of NK cells and NK-derived IFN-γ production were significantly reduced at designated time points (2, 4, 12 weeks). The liver resident (CD49a+DX5-) NK cells are decreased at 4 weeks after inoculation and which is significantly lower than in control mice. Moreover, in vivo antibody-mediated NK cell depletion increased parasitic load and decreased peri-parasitic fibrosis. Expression of the inhibitory receptor NKG2A was negatively related to NK- derived IFN-γ secretion. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed down regulates of NK cells and upper regulates of NKG2A expression on NK cells during E. multilocularis infection. Reduction of NK cell frequencies and increased NKG2A might result in low cytotoxic activity through decreased IFN-γ secretion in E. multilocularis infection. This result might be helpful to restore NK cell related immunity against E. multilocularis infection to treat alveolar echinococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abuduaini Abulizi
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Hepatobiliary & Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive & Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Yingmei Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Hepatobiliary & Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive & Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
- WHO Collaborating Center on Prevention and Management of Echinococcosis, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Tuerganaili Aji
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Hepatobiliary & Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive & Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
- WHO Collaborating Center on Prevention and Management of Echinococcosis, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Zhide Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Hepatobiliary & Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive & Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Chuanshan Zhang
- WHO Collaborating Center on Prevention and Management of Echinococcosis, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Echinococcosis, Clinical Medical Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Abudusalamu Aini
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Hepatobiliary & Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive & Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Hui Wang
- WHO Collaborating Center on Prevention and Management of Echinococcosis, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Echinococcosis, Clinical Medical Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Tuerhongjiang Tuxun
- Department of Liver and Laparoscopic Surgery, Digestive & Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Liang Li
- WHO Collaborating Center on Prevention and Management of Echinococcosis, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Echinococcosis, Clinical Medical Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Ning Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Hepatobiliary & Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive & Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Renyong Lin
- WHO Collaborating Center on Prevention and Management of Echinococcosis, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Echinococcosis, Clinical Medical Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
| | - Hao Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Hepatobiliary & Hydatid Disease Department, Digestive & Vascular Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
- WHO Collaborating Center on Prevention and Management of Echinococcosis, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Echinococcosis, Clinical Medical Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 China
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Polo ML, Ghiglione YA, Salido JP, Urioste A, Poblete G, Sisto AE, Martinez A, Rolón MJ, Ojeda DS, Cahn PE, Turk GJ, Laufer NL. Liver cirrhosis in HIV/HCV-coinfected individuals is related to NK cell dysfunction and exhaustion, but not to an impaired NK cell modulation by CD4 + T-cells. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25375. [PMID: 31536177 PMCID: PMC6752153 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV worsens HCV-related liver disease by accelerating fibrosis progression; however, progression rates are extremely variable among HIV/HCV-coinfected individuals. NK cells are associated with modulation of liver fibrosis and are profoundly altered during HCV and HIV infections. CD4+ T-cells modulate NK cell function, and are also affected by HIV infection. Here, we aim to characterize the association of hepatic fibrosis with both the phenotype and function of peripheral NK cells and their regulation by CD4+ T-cells, in HIV/HCV-coinfected individuals. METHODS Thirty-four HIV/HCV-coinfected individuals with minimal (n = 16) and advanced (n = 18) fibrosis (METAVIR F0/F1 and F4 scores respectively) and 20 healthy volunteers were enrolled. PBMC were obtained from peripheral blood samples and NK and CD4+ T-cells were isolated and analysed. NK cell phenotype (CD25, CD69, Nkp46, NKG2D, PD-1), degranulation (CD107a) and IFN-γ and TNF-α production, as well as CD4+ T-cell activation (CD69, CD25 and CD38) were measured by flow cytometry. CD4+ T-cell conditioned medium (CM) derived from F0/F1 or F4 individuals was assessed for IL-2 levels by ELISA. Modulation of NK cell functionality by these CMs was also analysed. RESULTS When comparing to NK cells from individuals with minimal fibrosis, degranulation and cytokine secretion by NK cells from subjects with F4 scores was significantly impaired, while PD-1 expression was augmented. On the one hand, neither the expression of activation markers nor IL-2 secretion was distinctly induced in CD4+ T-cells from subjects with F0/F1 or F4 METAVIR scores. Finally, NK cell degranulation and cytokine secretion were not differentially modulated by CD4+ T-cell CM, whether CD4+ T-cells derived from subjects with minimal or advanced fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Low levels of NK and CD4+ T-cells in HIV/HCV-coinfected individuals with advanced liver fibrosis have been previously described. Here, we show that advanced liver fibrosis in coinfected individuals is associated to a defective function of NK cells and an increased expression of the exhaustion/senescence marker PD-1. This NK signature could not be attributed to changes in the ability of CD4+ T-cells to modulate NK cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- María L Polo
- CONICET‐Universidad de Buenos AiresInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS)Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - Yanina A Ghiglione
- CONICET‐Universidad de Buenos AiresInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS)Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - Jimena P Salido
- CONICET‐Universidad de Buenos AiresInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS)Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - Alejandra Urioste
- CONICET‐Universidad de Buenos AiresInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS)Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - Gabriela Poblete
- Infectious Diseases UnitHospital General de Agudos “Dr. JA Fernández”Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - Alicia E Sisto
- Infectious Diseases UnitHospital General de Agudos “Dr. JA Fernández”Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - Ana Martinez
- Gastroenterology UnitHospital General de Agudos “Dr. JA Fernández”Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - María J Rolón
- Infectious Diseases UnitHospital General de Agudos “Dr. JA Fernández”Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - Diego S Ojeda
- CONICET‐Universidad de Buenos AiresInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS)Buenos AiresArgentina
| | | | - Gabriela J Turk
- CONICET‐Universidad de Buenos AiresInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS)Buenos AiresArgentina
| | - Natalia L Laufer
- CONICET‐Universidad de Buenos AiresInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Sida (INBIRS)Buenos AiresArgentina
- Infectious Diseases UnitHospital General de Agudos “Dr. JA Fernández”Buenos AiresArgentina
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Freund-Brown J, Chirino L, Kambayashi T. Strategies to enhance NK cell function for the treatment of tumors and infections. Crit Rev Immunol 2019; 38:105-130. [PMID: 29953390 DOI: 10.1615/critrevimmunol.2018025248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells equipped with the ability to rapidly kill stressed cells that are neoplastic or virally infected. These cells are especially important in settings where these stressed cells downregulate MHC class I molecules and evade recognition by cytotoxic T cells. However, the activity of NK cells alone is often suboptimal to fully control tumor growth or to clear viral infections. Thus, the enhancement of NK cell function is necessary to fully harness their antitumor or antiviral potential. In this review, we discuss how NK cell function can be augmented by the modulation of signal transduction pathways, by the manipulation of inhibitory/activating receptors on NK cells, and by cytokine-induced activation. We also discuss how some of these strategies are currently impacting NK cells in the treatment of cancer and infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn Freund-Brown
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Leilani Chirino
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Taku Kambayashi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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Sanduzzi-Zamparelli M, Boix L, Leal C, Reig M. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence in HCV Patients Treated with Direct Antiviral Agents. Viruses 2019; 11:E406. [PMID: 31052463 PMCID: PMC6563506 DOI: 10.3390/v11050406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The risk of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence is universal regardless of the treatment modality applied, and secondary prevention is still an unmet issue even though the elimination of hepatitis C (HCV) with direct antiviral agents (DAAs) was expected to be one of the new options. Unfortunately, the impact of DAAs on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development (de novo and recurrence) is still controversial. Since the first publication on the subject in 2016, almost all groups worldwide have carried out research in this field with hundreds of publications now available. This revision is focused on the impact of DAAs on HCC recurrence and aims to discuss the potential underlying mechanisms and host factors pointing out the time association phenomenon between DAA treatment and HCC recurrence. Moreover, we comment on the methodological issues that could affect the different interpretations of the published results. In conclusion, this is an area of research with potential in the understanding of the impact of factors not previously considered, and may also help change hepatocarcinogenesis tenets, such as the belief that the elimination of HCV should be used as a second prevention treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Sanduzzi-Zamparelli
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Loreto Boix
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Médica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Cassia Leal
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - María Reig
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Médica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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Persistent Replication of HIV, Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), and HBV Results in Distinct Gene Expression Profiles by Human NK Cells. J Virol 2019; 93:JVI.00575-18. [PMID: 30185599 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00575-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells during chronic viral infection have been well studied in the past. We performed an unbiased next-generation RNA-sequencing approach to identify commonalities or differences of the effect of HIV, HCV, and HBV viremia on NK cell transcriptomes. Using cell sorting, we obtained CD3- CD56+ NK cells from blood of 6 HIV-, 8 HCV-, and 32 HBV-infected patients without treatment. After library preparation and sequencing, we used an in-house analytic pipeline to compare expression levels with matched healthy controls. In NK cells from HIV-, HCV-, and HBV-infected patients, transcriptome analysis identified 272, 53, and 56 differentially expressed genes, respectively (fold change, >1.5; q-value, 0.2). Interferon-stimulated genes were induced in NK cells from HIV/HCV patients, but not during HBV infection. HIV viremia downregulated ribosome assembly genes in NK cells. In HBV-infected patients, viral load and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) variation had little effect on genes related to NK effector function. In conclusion, we compare, for the first time, NK cell transcripts of viremic HIV, HCV, and HBV patients. We clearly demonstrate distinctive NK cell gene signatures in three different populations, suggestive for a different degree of functional alterations of the NK cell compartment compared to healthy individuals.IMPORTANCE Three viruses exist that can result in persistently high viral loads in immunocompetent humans: human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis B virus. In the last decades, by using flow cytometry and in vitro assays on NK cells from patients with these types of infections, several impairments have been established, particularly during and possibly contributing to HIV viremia. However, the background of NK cell impairments in viremic patients is not well understood. In this study, we describe the NK cell transcriptomes of patients with high viral loads of different etiologies. We clearly demonstrate distinctive NK cell gene signatures with regard to interferon-stimulated gene induction and the expression of genes coding for activation markers or proteins involved in cytotoxic action, as well immunological genes. This study provides important details necessary to uncover the origin of functional and phenotypical differences between viremic patients and healthy subjects and provides many leads that can be confirmed using future in vitro manipulation experiments.
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Orr C, Aartun J, Masur H, Kottilil S, Meissner EG. Characterization of changes in intrahepatic immune cell populations during HCV treatment with sofosbuvir and ribavirin. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:323-328. [PMID: 30383918 PMCID: PMC6379130 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) results in a sustained virologic response (SVR) in most patients. While highly efficacious, ~3%-5% of patients do not achieve SVR despite having virus that appears susceptible. It is unclear whether host factors contribute to treatment failures, although innate and adaptive immunity may play a role. Previous studies showed that after DAA treatment, the composition of intrahepatic immune cells does not normalize relative to healthy volunteers, even in cases where SVR is achieved. We used paired pre- and post-treatment liver biopsies from 13 patients treated with sofosbuvir and ribavirin, 4 of whom relapsed, to analyse intracellular immune changes during DAA treatment and explore correlations with inflammation and treatment outcome. We performed single marker immunohistochemistry followed by electronic image capture, manual annotation of parenchymal and non-parenchymal regions, and quantitative image analysis. The predominant cellular change during treatment was a decrease in CD8+ cellular density in both parenchymal and non-parenchymal regions. CD68+ Kupffer cell density correlated with hepatic inflammation (AST, ALT) pre-treatment, but did not change during treatment. CD4+ cellular density decreased in non-parenchymal regions and, intriguingly, was lower pre-treatment in subjects who eventually relapsed. Other cellular markers (CD56, CD20), as well as markers of apoptosis (TIA-1) and activated stellate cells, did not change significantly during treatment or differ by treatment outcome. The predominant intrahepatic cellular change during DAA treatment of chronic HCV infection is a reduction in CD8+ cellular density, but this did not correlate with treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody Orr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Johannes Aartun
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Henry Masur
- Critical Care Medicine Department, NIH Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care and Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine
| | - Eric G. Meissner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina
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Rehermann B, Thimme R. Insights From Antiviral Therapy Into Immune Responses to Hepatitis B and C Virus Infection. Gastroenterology 2019; 156:369-383. [PMID: 30267712 PMCID: PMC6340757 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.08.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2018] [Revised: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There are 257 million persons worldwide with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, a leading causes of liver cancer. Almost all adults with acute HBV infection have a rapid immune response to the virus, resulting in life-long immunity, but there is no cure for individuals with chronic HBV infection, which they acquire during early life. The mechanisms that drive the progression of HBV through distinct clinical phases to end-stage liver disease are poorly understood. Likewise, it is not clear whether and how immune responses can be modulated to allow control and/or clearance of intrahepatic HBV DNA. We review the innate and adaptive immune responses to acute and chronic HBV infections and responses to antiviral therapy. Comparisons with hepatitis C virus infection provide insights into the reversibility of innate inflammatory responses and the potential for successful therapy to recover virus-specific memory immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Rehermann
- Immunology Section, Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland.
| | - Robert Thimme
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, University Hospital Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Hugstetter Straße 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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Urbanowicz A, Zagożdżon R, Ciszek M. Modulation of the Immune System in Chronic Hepatitis C and During Antiviral Interferon-Free Therapy. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2018; 67:79-88. [PMID: 30443787 PMCID: PMC6420452 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-018-0532-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has changed tremendously over the past 2 years, with an increasing variety of all-oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment regimens available for different HCV genotypes and distinct clinical settings. These treatments have significantly improved safety in patients with advanced liver disease compared with interferon (IFN)-based regimens. HCV modifies the human immune system to escape immunosurveillance via several mechanisms. One of the basic mechanisms of HCV is the ability to “switch” the immune response by reducing the activity of cells responsible for the elimination of virus-infected cells. IFN-free DAA treatment regimens provide a unique opportunity to assess the effect of HCV elimination on the immune system. Abrupt changes in the immune system can in some cases be responsible for two alarming processes: viral reactivation in patients with chronic hepatitis B and recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with previous successful cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arkadiusz Urbanowicz
- Department of Immunology, Transplant Medicine and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Radosław Zagożdżon
- Department of Immunology, Transplant Medicine and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Ciszek
- Department of Immunology, Transplant Medicine and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
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Shi A, Zhang X, Xiao F, Zhu L, Yan W, Han M, Luo X, Chen T, Ning Q. CD56 bright natural killer cells induce HBsAg reduction via cytolysis and cccDNA decay in long-term entecavir-treated patients switching to peginterferon alfa-2a. J Viral Hepat 2018; 25:1352-1362. [PMID: 29888839 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) reduction is well observed in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients treated with pegylated interferon alpha-2a (PegIFNα). However, the mechanism of HBsAg suppression has not been fully elucidated. Twenty-seven of 55 entecavir-treated CHB e antigen positive patients were switched to PegIFNα treatment (Group A) whereas 28 patients continued entecavir treatment (Group B). The percentage or absolute number of CD56bright /CD56dim NK cells, expression of receptors and cytokines were evaluated by flow cytometry for 48 weeks and correlated with treatment efficacy. In vitro, purified NK cells were co-cultured with HepAD38 cells for measurement of HBsAg, apoptosis and covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). In association with a reduction of HBsAg, the percentage and absolute number of CD56bright NK cells was significantly elevated in patients in group A, especially in Virologic Responders (VRs, HBsAg decreased). Furthermore, the percentage of NKp30+ , NKp46+ , TRAIL+ , TNF-α+ and IFNγ+ CD56bright NK cells were significantly expanded in Group A, which were positively correlated with the decline of HBsAg at week 48. In vitro, peripheral NK cells from Group A induced a decline of HBsAg in comparison with NK cells from Group B which was significantly inhibited by anti-TRAIL, anti-TNF-α and anti-IFNγ antibodies. Furthermore, apoptosis of HepAD38 cells and levels of cccDNA, were significantly reduced by TRAIL+ and TNF-α+ /IFNγ+ NK cells from Group A, respectively. A functional restoration of CD56bright NK cells in entecavir-treated patients who were switched to PegIFNα contributes to HBsAg and cccDNA clearance through TRAIL-induced cytolysis and TNF-α/IFNγ-mediated noncytolytic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Shi
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - X Zhang
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - F Xiao
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - L Zhu
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - W Yan
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - M Han
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - X Luo
- Department of Pediatric Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - T Chen
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Q Ning
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Santangelo L, Bordoni V, Montaldo C, Cimini E, Zingoni A, Battistelli C, D'Offizi G, Capobianchi MR, Santoni A, Tripodi M, Agrati C. Hepatitis C virus direct-acting antivirals therapy impacts on extracellular vesicles microRNAs content and on their immunomodulating properties. Liver Int 2018; 38:1741-1750. [PMID: 29359389 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is known to cause major alterations in the cross-talk between hepatic and immune cells thus contributing to the liver disease pathogenesis. Extracellular vesicles have been proved to act as major players in cell-cell communication, and their cargo changes in relation to pathophysiological states. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of chronic HCV infection and direct-acting antivirals (DAA) on exosome-delivered microRNAs and on their ability to modulate the innate immune response. METHODS Exosomes isolated from the plasma of healthy donors and naïve, viremic HCV patients before and after DAA treatment have been compared for their microRNAs cargo by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Functional assays with peripheral blood cells from healthy donors were performed to assess exosome-mediated immune responses. RESULTS MicroRNAs associated with HCV-related immunopathogenesis which were found to be enriched in exosomes of HCV viremic patients (in particular, miR-122-5p, miR-222-3p, miR-146a, miR-150-5p, miR-30c, miR-378a-3p and miR-20a-5p) were markedly reduced by DAA therapy. This exosome-microRNA cargo modulation parallels changes in their immunomodulatory properties in ex vivo experiments. Exosomes from HCV patients inhibit NK degranulation activity and this effect correlates with miR-122-5p or miR-222-3p levels. CONCLUSIONS Enrichment of immunomodulatory microRNAs in exosomes of HCV patients was correlated with their inhibitory activity on innate immune cells function. Direct-acting antivirals (DAA) treatment was observed to revert both microRNA content and functional profiles of systemic exosomes towards those of healthy donors. Exosome-associated microRNAs may provide valuable biomarkers to monitor immune response recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Santangelo
- Gene Expression Laboratory, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy
| | - Veronica Bordoni
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology and Pharmacology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Montaldo
- Gene Expression Laboratory, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Cimini
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology and Pharmacology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Pasteur Italia Laboratory - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Battistelli
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Haematology - Pasteur Italia Laboratory, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianpiero D'Offizi
- Hepatology and Infectious Diseases Unit, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy
| | - Maria R Capobianchi
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Santoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine - Pasteur Italia Laboratory, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.- Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Marco Tripodi
- Gene Expression Laboratory, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy.,Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Haematology - Pasteur Italia Laboratory, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Agrati
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology and Pharmacology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" I.R.C.C.S., Rome, Italy
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Suda T, Tatsumi T, Nishio A, Kegasawa T, Yoshioka T, Yamada R, Furuta K, Kodama T, Shigekawa M, Hikita H, Sakamori R, Fukuhara T, Matsuura Y, Takehara T. CEACAM1 Is Associated With the Suppression of Natural Killer Cell Function in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C. Hepatol Commun 2018; 2:1247-1258. [PMID: 30288478 PMCID: PMC6167072 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells (NK cells) play an essential role in the immunological mechanism underlying chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Impairment of NK cell function facilitates persistent infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatocellular carcinogenesis. However, the mechanism by which NK cell activity is suppressed in CHC is not completely understood. In this study, we focused on carcinoembryonic antigen–related cell‐adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1). CEACAM1 is thought to suppress NK cell function. We examined the effect of CEACAM1 on NK cell function in CHC. We investigated the function of CEACAM1 in vitro using Huh7.5.1 cells and the HCV‐Japanese fulminant hepatitis (JFH)‐1 strain. We analyzed serum CEACAM1 level, NK cell function, and CEACAM1 messenger RNA (mRNA) level in human liver samples. Levels of CEACAM1 on the cell surface, CEACAM1 mRNA levels, and soluble CEACAM1 levels in supernatants were significantly higher in Huh7.5.1 cells infected with JFH‐1 (Huh7.5.1/JFH‐1 cells) than in Huh7.5.1 cells. Significantly higher NK cell cytotoxicity was observed toward K562 cells after coculture with CEACAM1 knockout Huh7.5.1/JFH‐1 cells than after coculture with Huh7.5.1/JFH‐1 cells. CEACAM1 expression was induced by the HCV E2 glycoprotein in HCV infection. Significantly higher serum CEACAM1 levels were detected in patients with CHC compared with healthy subjects and patients who achieved sustained virological responses. The expression of CD107a on NK cells from patients with CHC was negatively correlated with serum CEACAM1 levels. Significantly higher levels of CEACAM1 mRNA were detected in HCV‐infected livers compared with uninfected livers. Conclusion: CEACAM1 expression was induced in hepatocytes following HCV infection and decreased NK cell cytotoxicity. These results demonstrate a possible role for CEACAM1 in the pathogenesis of CHC and hepatocellular carcinoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Suda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Tomohide Tatsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Akira Nishio
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Tadashi Kegasawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Teppei Yoshioka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Ryoko Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Kunimaro Furuta
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Takahiro Kodama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Minoru Shigekawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Hayato Hikita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Ryotaro Sakamori
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Takasuke Fukuhara
- Department of Molecular Virology Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University Suita Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Matsuura
- Department of Molecular Virology Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University Suita Japan
| | - Tetsuo Takehara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
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36
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Obaid A, Naz A, Ikram A, Awan FM, Raza A, Ahmad J, Ali A. Model of the adaptive immune response system against HCV infection reveals potential immunomodulatory agents for combination therapy. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8874. [PMID: 29891859 PMCID: PMC5995896 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27163-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A regulated immune system employs multiple cell types, diverse variety of cytokines and interacting signalling networks against infections. Systems biology offers a promising solution to model and simulate such large populations of interacting components of immune systems holistically. This study focuses on the distinct components of the adaptive immune system and analysis, both individually and in association with HCV infection. The effective and failed adaptive immune response models have been developed followed by interventions/perturbations of various treatment strategies to get better assessment of the treatment responses under varying stimuli. Based on the model predictions, the NK cells, T regulatory cells, IL-10, IL-21, IL-12, IL-2 entities are found to be the most critical determinants of treatment response. The proposed potential immunomodulatory therapeutic interventions include IL-21 treatment, blocking of inhibitory receptors on T-cells and exogenous anti-IL-10 antibody treatment. The relative results showed that these interventions have differential effect on the expression levels of cellular and cytokines entities of the immune response. Notably, IL-21 enhances the expression of NK cells, Cytotoxic T lymphocytes and CD4+ T cells and hence restore the host immune potential. The models presented here provide a starting point for cost-effective analysis and more comprehensive modeling of biological phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Obaid
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Anam Naz
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Aqsa Ikram
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Faryal Mehwish Awan
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Abida Raza
- National Institute of Lasers and Optronics (NILOP), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Jamil Ahmad
- Research Center for Modeling and Simulation (RCMS), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amjad Ali
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan.
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Immunomodulatory effects of Tim-3 and PD-1 on chronic hepatitis B virus infection. INFECTION INTERNATIONAL 2018. [DOI: 10.2478/ii-2018-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, the immune cells are dysfunctional, and the immune function cannot work normally. T-cell immunoglobulin mucin-3 (Tim-3) and programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) are overexpressed on the surface of immune cells, such as cluster of differentiation (CD)4+, CD8+ T-lymphocytes, and natural killer (NK) cells. Many studies indicate that this phenomenon is closely related to the persistence, occurrence, development, and prognosis of HBV. Tim-3 and PD-1 may be used as new immune targets for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B.
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38
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Dansako H, Imai H, Ueda Y, Satoh S, Wakita T, Kato N. ULBP1 is induced by hepatitis C virus infection and is the target of the NK cell-mediated innate immune response in human hepatocytes. FEBS Open Bio 2018; 8:361-371. [PMID: 29511613 PMCID: PMC5832972 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells through their NK group 2 member D (NKG2D) receptors recognize NKG2D ligands such as UL16‐binding proteins (ULBPs) on virus‐infected cells and subsequently trigger the host innate immune response. In the present study, we demonstrated that hepatitis C virus (HCV) induced the cell surface expression of ULBP1 in human immortalized hepatocyte PH5CH8 cells and human hepatoma HuH‐7 cell‐derived RSc cells. Interestingly, NK cell line NK‐92 induced cytotoxicity and interferon‐γ mRNA expression and subsequently reduced the levels of HCV RNA replication during co‐culture with HCV‐infected RSc cells. From these results, we conclude that ULBP1 is a target of the NK cell‐mediated innate immune response in HCV‐infected human hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromichi Dansako
- Department of Tumor Virology Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Okayama Japan
| | - Hirotaka Imai
- Department of Tumor Virology Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Okayama Japan
| | - Youki Ueda
- Department of Tumor Virology Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Okayama Japan
| | - Shinya Satoh
- Department of Tumor Virology Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Okayama Japan
| | - Takaji Wakita
- Department of Virology II National Institute of Infectious Disease Tokyo Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Kato
- Department of Tumor Virology Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Okayama Japan
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Podhorzer A, Dirchwolf M, Machicote A, Belen S, Montal S, Paz S, Fainboim H, Podestá LG, Fainboim L. The Clinical Features of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infections Are Associated with Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-Like Receptor Genes and Their Expression on the Surface of Natural Killer Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 8:1912. [PMID: 29354127 PMCID: PMC5760500 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genes are known to play a role in the acute phase of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The present study investigated their roles in chronic HCV (CHCV) infection by analyzing the phenotypes and function of natural killer (NK) and T cells that express KIRs. T cells from CHCV patients showed a more differentiated phenotype, and NK cells exhibited an activated profile. These observations are consistent with the increased expression of the degranulation marker CD107a observed after PMA stimulation. We explored the correlations between the expression of KIR genes and lectin type-C receptors with clinical factors that predict progression to fibrosis and cirrhosis. The expression levels of KIR2DS3 and the functional alleles of KIR2DS4-FL were increased in patients with intermediate and high viral loads. Homozygous KIR2DS4 was also associated with the presence of cirrhosis. In the group of individuals with a shorter infection time who developed cirrhosis, we detected decreased expression of KIR3DL1 in CD56dim NK cells in the presence of its ligand. Similarly, in the group of patients with late CHCV infections complicated with cirrhosis, we detected lower expression of the strong inhibitory receptor NKG2A in CD56bright NK cells. We also detected an increase in NKG2C expression in CD56dim NK cells in CHCV patients who displayed high necroinflammatory activity. Decreased KIR3DL2 expression in CD56dim and CD56bright NK cells was associated with a high body mass index, and KIR3DL2 expression may be one factor associated with the more rapid progression of CHCV to fibrosis in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Podhorzer
- Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM-CONICET), Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Melisa Dirchwolf
- Hepatopatías Infecciosas, Hospital Francisco J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrés Machicote
- Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM-CONICET), Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Santiago Belen
- Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM-CONICET), Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina Montal
- Unidad de Cirugía Hepato-Biliar y Trasplante, Hospital Universitario Austral, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia Paz
- Hepatopatías Infecciosas, Hospital Francisco J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Hugo Fainboim
- Hepatopatías Infecciosas, Hospital Francisco J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luis G Podestá
- Unidad de Cirugía Hepato-Biliar y Trasplante, Hospital Universitario Austral, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leonardo Fainboim
- Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM-CONICET), Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Stelma F, Willemse SB, Erken R, de Niet A, Sinnige MJ, van Dort K, Zaaijer HL, van Leeuwen EMM, Kootstra NA, Reesink HW. Dynamics of the Immune Response in Acute Hepatitis B Infection. Open Forum Infect Dis 2017; 4:ofx231. [PMID: 29302605 PMCID: PMC5739046 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofx231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acute hepatitis B virus infection in adults is generally self-limiting but may lead to chronicity in a minority of patients. Methods We included 9 patients with acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and collected longitudinal follow-up samples. Natural killer (NK) cell characteristics were analyzed by flowcytometry. HBV-specific T-cell function was analyzed by in vitro stimulation with HBV peptide pools and intracellular cytokine staining. Results Median baseline HBV DNA load was 5.12 log IU/mL, and median ALT was 2652 U/mL. Of 9 patients, 8 cleared HBsAg within 6 months whereas 1 patient became chronically infected. Early time points after infection showed increased CD56bright NK cells and an increased proportion of cells expressing activation markers. Most of these had normalized at week 24, while the proportion of TRAIL-positive CD56bright NK cells remained high in the chronically infected patient. In patients who cleared HBV, functional HBV-specific CD8+ and CD4+ responses could be observed, whereas in the patient who developed chronic infection, only low HBV-specific T-cell responses were observed. Conclusions NK cells are activated early in the course of acute HBV infection. Broad and multispecific T-cell responses are observed in patients who clear acute HBV infection, but not in a patient who became chronically infected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Stelma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sophie B Willemse
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robin Erken
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annikki de Niet
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marjan J Sinnige
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Karel van Dort
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hans L Zaaijer
- Department of Clinical Virology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ester M M van Leeuwen
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Neeltje A Kootstra
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hendrik W Reesink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Marotel M, Hasan U, Viel S, Marçais A, Walzer T. Back to the drawing board: Understanding the complexity of hepatic innate lymphoid cells. Eur J Immunol 2017; 46:2095-8. [PMID: 27600673 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201646584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies of immune populations in nonlymphoid organs have highlighted the great diversity of the innate lymphoid system. It has also become apparent that mouse and human innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have distinct phenotypes and properties. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Harmon et al. [Eur. J. Immunol. 2016. 46: 2111-2120] characterized human hepatic NK-cell subsets. The authors report that hepatic CD56(bright) NK cells resemble mouse liver ILC1s in that they express CXCR6 and have an immature phenotype. However, unlike mouse ILC1s, they express high levels of Eomes and low levels of T-bet, and upon stimulation with tumor cells, secrete low amounts of cytokines. These unexpected findings further support the differences between human and mouse immune populations and prompt the study of the role of hepatic ILC subsets in immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Marotel
- Centre International de recherche en Infectiologie, CIRI, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Univ Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, LYON, France
| | - Uzma Hasan
- Centre International de recherche en Infectiologie, CIRI, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Univ Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, LYON, France
| | - Sébastien Viel
- Centre International de recherche en Infectiologie, CIRI, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Univ Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, LYON, France
| | - Antoine Marçais
- Centre International de recherche en Infectiologie, CIRI, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Univ Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, LYON, France
| | - Thierry Walzer
- Centre International de recherche en Infectiologie, CIRI, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Univ Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, LYON, France.
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Werner JM, Adenugba A, Protzer U. Immune Reconstitution After HCV Clearance With Direct Antiviral Agents: Potential Consequences for Patients With HCC? Transplantation 2017; 101:904-909. [PMID: 27941432 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000001606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent introduction of all-oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment has revolutionized care of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Because patients with different liver disease stages have been treated with great success including those awaiting liver transplantation, therapy has been extended to patients with hepatocellular carcinoma as well. From observational studies among compensated cirrhotic hepatitis C patients treated with interferon-containing regimens, it would have been expected that the rate of hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence is markedly decreased after a sustained virological response. However, recently 2 studies have been published reporting markedly increased rates of tumor recurrence and occurrence after viral clearance with DAA agents. Over the last decades, it has been established that chronic antigen stimulation during persistent infection with hepatitis C virus is associated with continuous activation and impaired function of several immune cell populations, such as natural killer cells and virus-specific T cells. This review therefore focuses on recent studies evaluating the restoration of adaptive and innate immune cell populations after DAA therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection in the context of the immune responses in hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens M Werner
- 1 Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany. 2 Institute of Virology, Technische Universität München/Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany, German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich, Germany
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Chen T, Zhu L, Shi A, Ding L, Zhang X, Tan Z, Guo W, Yan W, Han M, Jia J, Luo X, Schuppan D, Ning Q. Functional restoration of CD56 bright NK cells facilitates immune control via IL-15 and NKG2D in patients under antiviral treatment for chronic hepatitis B. Hepatol Int 2017. [PMID: 28639033 PMCID: PMC5606950 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-017-9803-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background and aims Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is intrinsically immunogenic, with long-lasting immune control in many patients. However, the mechanisms and key cell types underlying effective immune control are incompletely understood. Methods We studied the restoration of natural killer (NK) cell numbers and function post antiviral treatment in 52 hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients who received telbivudine (LdT) for 48 weeks. Blood samples were collected at week 0, 12, 24, 36, and 48 and tested for HBV DNA, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), HBeAg, liver enzymes, and NK cell parameters. Results Compared with baseline, the number of peripheral CD3−CD56bright NK cells increased significantly from week 24 to 48, especially in patients with baseline alanine transaminase (ALT) two- to fivefold the upper line of normal (ULN) or HBV DNA <9 log10 copies/ml. Expression (number and density) of activating receptors NKG2D and NKp46 on CD3−CD56bright NK cells was enhanced, while inhibitory receptor NKG2A decreased. Notably, numbers of CD3−CD56bright or NKG2D+CD3−CD56bright NK cells were significantly better restored in patients with HBeAg seroconversion. NK cell activating serum interleukin 15 (IL-15) was significantly increased during LdT treatment, especially in HBeAg seroconverters. LdT significantly enhanced expression of NKG2D and IL-15 in cultures of purified peripheral NK cells from treatment-naïve HBeAg-positive CHB patients. Conclusions Functional restoration of CD56bright NK cells via upregulation of IL-15 and NKG2D is a novel activity of LdT and likely other antivirals, independent of its effect on HBV replication. This also demonstrates the importance of host immune restoration in controlling chronic HBV infection. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s12072-017-9803-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Chen
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Aichao Shi
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lin Ding
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zhenmin Tan
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Weiming Yan
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Meifang Han
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 10050, China
| | - Xiaoping Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center and Research Center for Immune Therapy, Johannes-Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Qin Ning
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Hepatitis C virus-induced NK cell activation causes metzincin-mediated CD16 cleavage and impaired antibody-dependent cytotoxicity. J Hepatol 2017; 66:1130-1137. [PMID: 28192188 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2017.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The Fc receptor family for immunoglobulin (Ig)G type III (FcγRIII, CD16) is an activating receptor on natural killer (NK) cells and an essential mediator of antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). There is only limited information on its role during chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We studied CD16 expression in relation to NK cell functional activity in HCV-infected patients and sought mechanistic insights into virus-induced modulation. METHODS NK cell CD16 expression and activation status were evaluated ex vivo by flow cytometry in HCV-infected patients and healthy controls (HC) as well as in vitro after co-culture with HCV-infected HuH7.5 cells. Rituximab-mediated ADCC was assessed in HC and HCV-infected patients using Daudi cells as a target. The role of metzincins in CD16 down-modulation was assessed using specific inhibitory molecules and by evaluating intracellular mRNA levels. RESULTS HCV-infected patients exhibited increased frequencies of ex vivo activated NK cells and a concomitantly decreased NK CD16 expression, which resulted in impaired ADCC activity. Moreover, exposure of NK cells to culture-derived HCV recapitulated the ex vivo findings of decreased CD16 expression and increased NK cell activation. Importantly, blockade of metzincin-mediated shedding activity, including selective a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17 (ADAM-17) inhibition, restored NK CD16 expression. Successful treatment with direct-acting antivirals partially improved NK ADCC function despite delayed CD16 reconstitution. CONCLUSION Chronic HCV infection induces NK cell activation resulting in ADAM-17-dependent CD16 shedding and consequent impaired ADCC function. Altered ADCC may contribute to failure to eradicate HCV-infected hepatocytes. LAY SUMMARY We show here that hepatitis C virus (HCV) activates natural killer (NK) lymphocytes which, as a consequence, loose their Fc receptor for IgG (CD16), an essential molecule for antibody binding. We show that this occurs through the action of enzymes named metzincins, resulting in altered NK-mediated antibody-dependent killing (ADCC) of target cells. This mechanism may contribute to HCV persistence and may represent a general phenomenon whereby some viruses can escape host's immune responses.
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45
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Boeijen LL, Hoogeveen RC, Boonstra A, Lauer GM. Hepatitis B virus infection and the immune response: The big questions. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2017; 31:265-272. [PMID: 28774408 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2017.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Clinical events and the host immune response during hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are intricately linked. Despite decades of research, important questions concerning the immunopathogenesis of chronic HBV infection remain unanswered. For example, it is unclear which immune parameters facilitate persistence, and if HBV can be completely cleared from the human liver. Recent technological breakthroughs now allow researchers to address these seemingly basic, but essential questions surrounding HBV immunity. It will be important to better define the molecular underpinnings of immune cell function and dysfunction during chronic disease and in controlled infection, with particular focus on the liver, as little information is available on the intrahepatic compartment. In the near future, it may be possible to solve some of the controversy surrounding the immune responses to HBV, and establish the features of both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system required to achieve sustained control of HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauke L Boeijen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ruben C Hoogeveen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andre Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Georg M Lauer
- Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Phillips S, Mistry S, Riva A, Cooksley H, Hadzhiolova-Lebeau T, Plavova S, Katzarov K, Simonova M, Zeuzem S, Woffendin C, Chen PJ, Peng CY, Chang TT, Lueth S, De Knegt R, Choi MS, Wedemeyer H, Dao M, Kim CW, Chu HC, Wind-Rotolo M, Williams R, Cooney E, Chokshi S. Peg-Interferon Lambda Treatment Induces Robust Innate and Adaptive Immunity in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients. Front Immunol 2017; 8:621. [PMID: 28611778 PMCID: PMC5446997 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IFN-lambda (IFNλ) is a member of the type III IFN family and is reported to possess anti-pathogen, anti-cancer, and immunomodulatory properties; however, there are limited data regarding its impact on host immune responses in vivo. We performed longitudinal and comprehensive immunosurveillance to assess the ability of pegylated (peg)-IFNλ to augment antiviral host immunity as part of a clinical trial assessing the efficacy of peg-IFNλ in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. These patients were pretreated with directly acting antiviral therapy (entecavir) for 12 weeks with subsequent addition of peg-IFNλ for up to 32 weeks. In a subgroup of patients, the addition of peg-IFNλ provoked high serum levels of antiviral cytokine IL-18. We also observed the enhancement of natural killer cell polyfunctionality and the recovery of a pan-genotypic HBV-specific CD4+ T cells producing IFN-γ with maintenance of HBV-specific CD8+ T cell antiviral and cytotoxic activities. It was only in these patients that we observed strong virological control with reductions in both viral replication and HBV antigen levels. Here, we show for the first time that in vivo peg-IFNλ displays significant immunostimulatory properties with improvements in the main effectors mediating anti-HBV immunity. Interestingly, the maintenance in HBV-specific CD8+ T cells in the presence of peg-IFNλ is in contrast to previous studies showing that peg-IFNα treatment for CHB results in a detrimental effect on the functionality of this important antiviral T cell compartment. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01204762.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Phillips
- Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sameer Mistry
- Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Riva
- Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Cooksley
- Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Slava Plavova
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Military Medical Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Krum Katzarov
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Military Medical Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Marieta Simonova
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Military Medical Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Stephan Zeuzem
- Johann Wolfgang, Goethe University Medical Center, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Clive Woffendin
- Oregon Clinical and Translational Research Institute, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Pei-Jer Chen
- National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Michael Dao
- Precision Diagnostic Laboratory, Santa Ana, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Megan Wind-Rotolo
- Research and Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Wallingford, CT, United States
| | - Roger Williams
- Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Shilpa Chokshi
- Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Interplay between the Hepatitis B Virus and Innate Immunity: From an Understanding to the Development of Therapeutic Concepts. Viruses 2017; 9:v9050095. [PMID: 28452930 PMCID: PMC5454408 DOI: 10.3390/v9050095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) infects hepatocytes, which are the main cell type composing a human liver. However, the liver is enriched with immune cells, particularly innate cells (e.g., myeloid cells, natural killer and natural killer T-cells (NK/NKT), dendritic cells (DCs)), in resting condition. Hence, the study of the interaction between HBV and innate immune cells is instrumental to: (1) better understand the conditions of establishment and maintenance of HBV infections in this secondary lymphoid organ; (2) define the role of these innate immune cells in treatment failure and pathogenesis; and (3) design novel immune-therapeutic concepts based on the activation/restoration of innate cell functions and/or innate effectors. This review will summarize and discuss the current knowledge we have on this interplay between HBV and liver innate immunity.
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48
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Wang W, Xiang HP, Wang HP, Zhu LX, Geng XP. CD4 + CD25 + CD127 high cells as a negative predictor of multiple organ failure in acute pancreatitis. World J Emerg Surg 2017; 12:7. [PMID: 28174597 PMCID: PMC5290669 DOI: 10.1186/s13017-017-0116-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background It has been suggested that severity of the immune response induced by immune cells is associated with morbidity and mortality from acute pancreatitis. The authors investigated and evaluated the relationship between distinct peripheral lymphocyte subsets at admission and clinical outcome prior to hospital discharge so as to find a predictor to the prognosis of acute pancreatitis in lymphocyte profile. Methods Lymphocyte subsets in admission peripheral venous blood were tested through flow cytometry on 48 patients with acute pancreatitis. Clinical data was recorded as well. The primary observational outcomes were multiple organ failure (MOF) and infection. Results There was a significant difference in natural killer cells between two subgroups sorted by the presence or absence of infection (25.5 ± 4.47 [95% CI 14.4, 36.6] vs 14.8 ± 7.62 [95% CI 12.5,1 7.1] p = 0.021). Patients who developed MOF had lower CD4 + CD25 + CD127high (4.49 ± 1.5 (MOF) [95% CI 3.83, 5.16] vs 6.57 ± 2.65 (non-MOF) [95% CI 5.5, 7.64] p = 0.002) and higher CD127low/high cell counts (1.35 ± 0.66 [95% CI 1.06, 1.65] vs 0.97 ± 0.44 [95% CI 0.79, 1.15] p = 0.02). MOF patients were significantly older (55 ± 14.58 [95% CI 48.49,61.42] vs 46 ± 15.59 [95% CI 39.39,51.99] p = 0.04), and had higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation IIscores (7 ± 3.66 [95% CI 5.5,7.64] vs 4 ± 2.89 [95% CI 2.45,4.78] p = 0.001) and C reactive protein (100.53 ± 94.38 [95% CI 58.69,142.48] vs 50.8 ± 59.2 [95% CI 26.88,74.71] p = 0.04). In a multivariate regression model, only CD4 + CD25 + CD127high cell was a significant predictor of non-MOF. For the detection of non-MOF, CD4 + CD25 + CD127high cell generated a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve with an area under the curve of 0.74. Conclusion CD4 + CD25 + CD127high cell at early phase of acute pancreatitis yields good specificity in detecting non-MOF at a suggested cutoff value 6.41%. Patients with fewer natural killer cells may be at risk in developing secondary infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Department of Emergency Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 678 Furong Road, Hefei, 230601 Anhui Province People's Republic of China
| | - He-Ping Xiang
- Department of Emergency Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 678 Furong Road, Hefei, 230601 Anhui Province People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Ping Wang
- Hematology department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601 Anhui Province People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Xin Zhu
- Central lab of the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 Anhui Province People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Ping Geng
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601 Anhui Province People's Republic of China
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Elevation of Alanine Aminotransferase Activity Occurs after Activation of the Cell-Death Signaling Initiated by Pattern-Recognition Receptors but before Activation of Cytolytic Effectors in NK or CD8+ T Cells in the Liver During Acute HCV Infection. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0165533. [PMID: 27788241 PMCID: PMC5082795 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) promote host defenses against HCV infection by binding to their corresponding adapter molecules leading to the initiation of innate immune responses including cell death. We investigated the expression of PRR genes, biomarkers of liver cell-death, and T cell and NK cell activation/inhibition-related genes in liver and serum obtained from three experimentally infected chimpanzees with acute HCV infection, and analyzed the correlation between gene expression levels and clinical profiles. Our results showed that expression of hepatic RIG-I, TLR3, TLR7, 2OAS1, and CXCL10 mRNAs was upregulated as early as 7 days post-inoculation and peaked 12 to 83 days post-inoculation. All of the three HCV infected chimpanzees exhibited significant elevations of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity between 70 and 95 days after inoculation. Elevated levels of serum cytokeratin 18 (CK-18) and caspases 3 and 7 activity coincided closely with the rise of ALT activity, and were preceded by significant increases in levels of caspase 3 and caspase 7 mRNAs in the liver. Particularly we found that significant positive auto-correlations were observed between RIG-I, TLR3, CXCL10, 2OAS1, and PD-L1 mRNA and ALT activity at 3 to 12 days before the peak of ALT activity. However, we observed substantial negative auto-correlations between T cell and NK cell activation/inhibition-related genes and ALT activity at 5 to 32 days after the peak of ALT activity. Our results indicated cell death signaling is preceded by early induction of RIG-I, TLR3, 2OAS1, and CXCL10 mRNAs which leads to elevation of ALT activity and this signaling pathway occurs before the activation of NK and T cells during acute HCV infection. Our study suggests that PRRs and type I IFN response may play a critical role in development of liver cell injury related to viral clearance during acute HCV infection.
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Singh P, Dass JFP. A multifaceted computational report on the variants effect on KIR2DL3 and IFNL3 candidate gene in HCV clearance. Mol Biol Rep 2016; 43:1101-17. [PMID: 27461217 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-016-4044-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
HCV infection causes acute and chronic liver diseases including, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Following HCV infection, spontaneous clearance occurs in approximately 20 % of the population dependant upon HCV genotype. In this study, functional and non-functional variant analysis was executed for the classical and the latest HCV clearance candidate genes namely, KIR2DL3 and IFNL3. Initially, the functional effects of non-synonymous SNPs were assigned on exposing to homology based tools, SIFT, PolyPhen-2 and PROVEAN. Further, UTR and splice sites variants were scanned for the gene expression and regulation changes. Subsequently, the haplotype and CNV were also identified. The mutation H77Y of KIR2DL3 and R157Q, H156Y, S63L, R157W, F179V, H128R, T101M, R180C, and F176I of IFNL3 results in conservation, RMSD, total energy, stability, and secondary structures revealed a negative impact on the structural fitness. UTRscan and the splice site result indicate functional change, which may affect gene regulation and expression. The graphical display of selected population shows alleles like rs270779, rs2296370, rs10423751, rs12982559, rs9797797, and rs35987710 of KIR2DL3 and rs12972991, rs12980275, rs4803217, rs8109886, and rs8099917 of IFNL3 are in high LD with a measure of [Formula: see text] broadcasting its protective effect in HCV clearance. Similarly, CNV report suggests major DNA fragment loss that could have a profound impact on the gene expression affecting the overall phenotype. This roundup report specifies the effect of NK cell receptor, KIR2DL3 and IFNL3 variants that can have a better prospect in GWAS and immunogenetic studies leading to better understanding of HCV clearance and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratichi Singh
- Bioinformatics Division, School of Biosciences and Technology, VIT University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - J Febin Prabhu Dass
- Bioinformatics Division, School of Biosciences and Technology, VIT University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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