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Chen Z, Zhou X, Qu H, Zhang X, Kwak-Kim J, Wang W. Characteristics and functions of memory regulatory T cells in normal pregnancy cycle and pregnancy complications. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104235. [PMID: 38574576 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104235] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are activated and expanded after exposure to fetal-specific (paternal) antigens. A proportion of Tregs differentiate into memory Tregs (mTregs), exhibiting immune memory function and exerting more potent immunosuppression than naive Tregs (nTregs). However, it is unclear how mTregs are regulated during normal and pathological pregnancies (e.g., gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and preeclampsia (PE)). In this study, PD-1, HLA-G, and HLA-DR expressions on memory CD4+ T cells, naive CD4+ T cells, Tregs, mTregs, and nTregs in healthy non-pregnant women (n=20), healthy first (n=20), second (n=20), and third-trimester women (n=20), postpartum women (n=20), GDM (n=20), and PE patients (n=20) were analyzed. The proportion of mTregs out of Tregs was increased (P<0.05) in the first trimester compared with that in non-pregnancy and reduced in the second and third trimesters. The proportions of PD-1+ Tregs and mTregs were significantly increased during the first trimester compared to those of non-pregnancy (P<0.01), reached their maximum in the second trimester. Moreover, the proportions of HLA-G+ memory CD4+ T cells, Tregs, and mTregs were increased in the first and second trimesters (P<0.01), reached their maximum in the third trimester. GDM patients were characterized by significantly lower percentages of PD-1+ and HLA-G+ mTregs (P<0.01), while PE patients were characterized by significantly lower percentages of HLA-G+ mTregs (P<0.01), compared with the healthy third-trimester women. In general, as demonstrated by this study, mTregs increase in number and enhance maternal-fetal immunoregulation during pregnancy, and their dysfunction can result in pregnancy complications such as GMD or PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyang Chen
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, PR China
| | - Xiaojiao Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, PR China
| | - Hongmei Qu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, PR China
| | - Xiaolu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, PR China
| | - Joanne Kwak-Kim
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernon Hills, IL 60061, USA; Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Wenjuan Wang
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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Zhang YN, Wu Q, Deng YH. Phenotypic characterisation of regulatory T cells in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4881. [PMID: 38418860 PMCID: PMC10902321 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47638-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication that occurs during pregnancy. Emerging evidence suggests that immune abnormalities play a pivotal role in the development of GDM. Specifically, regulatory T cells (Tregs) are considered a critical factor in controlling maternal-fetal immune tolerance. However, the specific characteristics and alterations of Tregs during the pathogenesis of GDM remain poorly elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the changes in Tregs among pregnant women diagnosed with GDM compared to healthy pregnant women. A prospective study was conducted, enrolling 23 healthy pregnant women in the third trimester and 21 third-trimester women diagnosed with GDM. Participants were followed up until the postpartum period. The proportions of various Treg, including Tregs, mTregs, and nTregs, were detected in the peripheral blood of pregnant women from both groups. Additionally, the expression levels of PD-1, HLA-G, and HLA-DR on these Tregs were examined. The results revealed no significant differences in the proportions of Tregs, mTregs, and nTregs between the two groups during the third trimester and postpartum period. However, GDM patients exhibited significantly reduced levels of PD-1+ Tregs (P < 0.01) and HLA-G+ Tregs (P < 0.05) in the third trimester compared to healthy pregnant women in the third trimester. Furthermore, GDM patients demonstrated significantly lower levels of PD-1+ mTregs (P < 0.01) and HLA-G+ (P < 0.05) mTregs compared to healthy pregnant women in the third trimester. Overall, the proportion of Tregs did not exhibit significant changes during the third trimester in GDM patients compared to healthy pregnant women. Nevertheless, the observed dysregulation of immune regulation function in Tregs and mTregs may be associated with the development of GDM in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Nan Zhang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan, 410208, China
| | - Qin Wu
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan, 410208, China
| | - Yi-Hui Deng
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan, 410208, China.
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Moldenhauer LM, Foyle KL, Wilson JJ, Wong YY, Sharkey DJ, Green ES, Barry SC, Hull ML, Robertson SA. A disrupted FOXP3 transcriptional signature underpins systemic regulatory T cell insufficiency in early pregnancy failure. iScience 2024; 27:108994. [PMID: 38327801 PMCID: PMC10847744 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108994] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cell defects are implicated in disorders of embryo implantation and placental development, but the origins of Treg cell dysfunction are unknown. Here, we comprehensively analyzed the phenotypes and transcriptional profile of peripheral blood Treg cells in individuals with early pregnancy failure (EPF). Compared to fertile subjects, EPF subjects had 32% fewer total Treg cells and 54% fewer CD45RA+CCR7+ naive Treg cells among CD4+ T cells, an altered Treg cell phenotype with reduced transcription factor FOXP3 and suppressive marker CTLA4 expression, and lower Treg:Th1 and Treg:Th17 ratios. RNA sequencing demonstrated an aberrant gene expression profile, with upregulation of pro-inflammatory genes including CSF2, IL4, IL17A, IL21, and IFNG in EPF Treg cells. In silico analysis revealed 25% of the Treg cell dysregulated genes are targets of FOXP3. We conclude that EPF is associated with systemic Treg cell defects arising due to disrupted FOXP3 transcriptional control and loss of lineage fidelity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan M. Moldenhauer
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kerrie L. Foyle
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jasmine J. Wilson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ying Y. Wong
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - David J. Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ella S. Green
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Simon C. Barry
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - M. Louise Hull
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sarah A. Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Bamba C, Rohilla M, Kumari A, Kaur A, Srivastava P. Influence of forkhead box protein 3 gene polymorphisms in recurrent pregnancy loss: A meta-analysis. Placenta 2024; 146:79-88. [PMID: 38198891 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treg cells play an important role in development of tolerance in maternal immune system against the semi-allogenic embryo. Human forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) gene, is the major transcription factor responsible for the regulation of Treg function during pregnancy. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of FOXP3 gene have been reported as a risk factor for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL), however, results from previous studies are inconsistent. METHODOLOGY We have collected data from different studies to investigate the overall association of FOXP3 SNPs with risk of RPL. PubMed, Google Scholar, Elsevier, and Cochrane databases were searched to identify eligible studies. Odds Ratio (OR) and 95 % Confidence Interval (CI), calculated via fixed effect or random effect models, were used to evaluate strength of association. This meta-analysis included 11 studies (1383 RPL cases and 1413 controls) of 6 SNPs: rs3761548 A/C, rs2232365 A/G, rs2294021 T/C, 2280883 T/C, rs5902434del/ATT and rs141704699C/T, with ≥2 studies per SNPs and at least 1 significant result. RESULTS We observed that FOXP3 polymorphism was predominantly present in Asian women with history of RPL. rs2232365 A/G, rs3761548 A/C, rs2294021 T/C, rs2280883 T/C and rs5902434del/ATT polymorphisms were significantly associated with risk of RPL in Indian population. Further, among the most commonly seen polymorphism, rs3761548 A/C was significantly associated with risk of RPL in women from Kazakhstan, China and Gaza, Palestine; rs2232365 A/G in populations of Kazakhstan, Egypt, Iran and Gaza, Palestine. Results of this study indicates that FOXP3 polymorphism is significantly associated with risk of RPL, especially in Asians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitra Bamba
- Genetic Metabolic Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Minakshi Rohilla
- Department of Obstetric & Gynaecology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Anu Kumari
- Genetic Metabolic Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Anupriya Kaur
- Genetic Metabolic Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Priyanka Srivastava
- Genetic Metabolic Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
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Wiley KS, Kwon D, Knorr DA, Fox MM. Regulatory T-cell phenotypes in prenatal psychological distress. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 116:62-69. [PMID: 38016492 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experiencing symptoms of psychological distress during pregnancy is common and has been linked to dysregulated immune functioning. In this context, immunoregulatory function is especially relevant because of its crucial role in establishment and maintenance of healthy pregnancy. However, little research has examined associations between women's prenatal psychological distress and immunoregulatory biomarkers. We investigated how symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress relate to circulating levels of regulatory T-cells (Tregs). MATERIALS AND METHODS Pregnant Latina women were assessed at around 12 weeks of pregnancy (N = 82). These assessments included blood draws and self-report questionnaires assessing symptoms of depression, state anxiety, pregnancy-related anxiety, and perceived stress. Flow cytometry on PBMCs was used to quantify circulating Tregs, defined as CD3+CD4+CD25hiCD127loFoxP3+, and subpopulations positive for one of the following intra- or extracellular markers, CD45RA, CTLA-4, Helios, PD-1, TIM-3, and TIGIT. We collected 82 samples at 12 weeks. Multivariable linear regressions tested for associations between symptoms of psychological distress and Treg concentrations, adjusted for gestational age. RESULTS State anxiety symptoms at 12 weeks were negatively associated with parent Treg cell levels (b = -4.02, p = 0.023) and subpopulations Helios+ (b = -3.29, p = 0.019) and TIM3+ (b = -3.17, p = 0.008). Perceived stress was negatively associated with the PD-1+ subpopulation at 12 weeks (b = -4.02, p = 0.023). Depression was not related to Tregs or the subpopulations. CONCLUSION Our observation that symptoms of anxiety and stress are related to tolerogenic immunology suggests a possible biomechanism explaining correlations of maternal mood disorders with adverse outcomes for mothers and offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle S Wiley
- Department of Anthropology, University of California, Los Angeles, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, United States.
| | - Dayoon Kwon
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Delaney A Knorr
- Department of Anthropology, University of California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Molly M Fox
- Department of Anthropology, University of California, Los Angeles, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, United States
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Liu PC, Li JB, Huang YP, Zhang M, Yu SJ, Wu R. Overexpression of regulatory T cells in patients with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss: friend or foe? Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 10:1244424. [PMID: 38239620 PMCID: PMC10794536 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1244424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to investigate the role of regulatory T cells in patients with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (URPL). Methods We retrospectively analyzed 136 women who had experienced two or more miscarriages before 24 weeks of gestation for no obvious reason from May 2018 to October 2021. The basic clinical data of the patients and expression of lymphocyte subsets such as regulatory T cells (Tregs) and natural killer cells (NKs) by flow cytometry were collected to explore the risk factors of pregnancy outcome in URPL patients. Results A total of 136 URPL patients were enrolled in this study. Eventually, 50 patients attained clinical pregnancy. The median age was 31.8 ± 4.6 years in patients with clinical pregnancy. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that Tregs was associated with the pregnancy outcomes of patients with URPL (odds ratio 0.63, 95% confidence interval 0.50-0.80). More importantly, a U-shaped association was found between Tregs and pregnancy outcome (p < 0.001), with either higher or lower Tregs levels adversely affecting pregnancy outcome. Conclusion Tregs levels that are either too high or too low can harm pregnancy outcomes. It was expected to be a very promising quantitative biomarker for predicting pregnancy outcomes in URPL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Rui Wu
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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Arain H, Patel T, Mureanu N, Efthymiou A, Lombardi G, Tree T, Nicolaides KH, Shangaris P. Regulatory T cells in the peripheral blood of women with gestational diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1226617. [PMID: 38111588 PMCID: PMC10726109 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1226617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gestational diabetes (GDM) affects approximately 14% of pregnancies globally and is associated with short- and long-term complications for both the mother and child. In addition, GDM has been linked to chronic low-grade inflammation with recent research indicating a potential immune dysregulation in pathophysiology and a disparity in regulatory T cells. Objective This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine whether there is an association between GDM and the level of Tregs in the peripheral blood. Methods Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Ovid between the 7th and 14th of February 2022. The inclusion criteria were any original studies published in the English language, measuring differentiated Tregs in women with GDM compared with glucose-tolerant pregnant women. Meta-analysis was performed between comparable Treg markers. Statistical tests were used to quantify heterogeneity: τ 2, χ 2, and I 2. Study quality was assessed using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Results The search yielded 223 results: eight studies were included in the review and seven in the meta-analysis (GDM = 228, control = 286). Analysis of Tregs across all trimesters showed significantly lower Treg numbers in women with GDM (SMD, -0.76; 95% CI, -1.37, -0.15; I 2 = 90%). This was reflected in the analysis by specific Treg markers (SMD -0.55; 95% CI, -1.04, -0.07; I 2 = 83%; third trimester, five studies). Non-significant differences were found within subgroups (differentiated by CD4+FoxP3+, CD4+CD127-, and CD4+CD127-FoxP3) of both analyses. Conclusion GDM is associated with lower Treg numbers in the peripheral maternal blood. In early pregnancy, there is clinical potential to use Treg levels as a predictive tool for the subsequent development of GDM. There is also a potential therapeutic intervention to prevent the development of GDM by increasing Treg populations. However, the precise mechanism by which Tregs mediate GDM remains unclear. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42022309796.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hania Arain
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tina Patel
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicoleta Mureanu
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King’s College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Athina Efthymiou
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King’s College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanna Lombardi
- Peter Gorer Department of Immunobiology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy Tree
- Peter Gorer Department of Immunobiology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kypros H. Nicolaides
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King’s College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Panicos Shangaris
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King’s College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Peter Gorer Department of Immunobiology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Jahan P, Bhuwalka R, Begum M, Madduru D, Ahmad A, Bonu R. UP-regulated levels of sHLA-G in women with a history of RPL in mid-gestation presumably to achieve ongoing pregnancy. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13798. [PMID: 38009053 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) is a disorder characterized by two or more pregnancy losses within 20th week of gestation. Globally 1-5% of the couples are affected, 50% of these cases are with unknown etiology. HLA-G, an Immuno-modulatory molecule is a non-classical MHC-1 protein, expressed abundantly on extravillous trophoblastic cells, responsible for spiral artery remodeling, maintaining maternal immune tolerance and fetal growth by adjusting pro and anti-inflammatory milieu during different gestational phases. METHOD OF STUDY In the present case-control study CD4+HLA-G+ tTreg cells were enumerated by flow cytometry and estimation of the circulating levels of sHLA-G in the blood samples of 300 mid-gestation pregnant women with (iRPL) and without history of RPL (nRPL) by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent assay was done. The cases included 92 primary and 58 secondary RPL cases RESULTS: A significant reduction in number of tTregs and elevated levels of circulating sHLA-G in iRPL (.03, 200.9) versus nRPL (.09, 90.32) was observed. Further, the primary cases showed higher circulating sHLA-G and no difference in relation to CD4+HLA-G+ tTregs compared to the secondary cases. Receiver operating curve (ROC) characteristics of sHLA-G (AUC = .8) was superior to CD4+HLA-G+ (AUC = .7) for iRPL patients over nRPL group. CONCLUSIONS Our results are suggestive of the over-expression of sHLA-G which may be caused due to its shedding from surface of trophoblast as a compensatory mechanism to save the on-going pregnancy. To realize the present outcome, studies are required on on-going pregnancy follow-up cases with favorable and unfavorable pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parveen Jahan
- School of Sciences (Zoology), Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Rashmi Bhuwalka
- School of Sciences (Zoology), Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Mahmooda Begum
- School of Sciences (Zoology), Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Dhatri Madduru
- Department of Biochemistry, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Arif Ahmad
- School of Sciences (Zoology), Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Rajeshwari Bonu
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics Department, Niloufer Hospital, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Chen Z, Zhang Y, Kwak-Kim J, Wang W. Memory regulatory T cells in pregnancy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1209706. [PMID: 37954599 PMCID: PMC10637476 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1209706] [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: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy requires the process of maternal immune tolerance to semi-allogeneic embryos. In contrast, an overreactive maternal immune system to embryo-specific antigens is likely to result in the rejection of embryos while damaging the invading placenta, such that the likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes can be increased. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are capable of suppressing excessive immune responses and regulating immune homeostasis. When stimulating Tregs, specific antigens will differentiate into memory Tregs with long-term survival and rapid and powerful immune regulatory ability. Immunomodulatory effects mediated by memory Tregs at the maternal-fetal interface take on critical significance in a successful pregnancy. The impaired function of memory Tregs shows a correlation with various pregnancy complications (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, and recurrent pregnancy losses). However, the differentiation process and characteristics of memory Tregs, especially their role in pregnancy, remain unclear. In this study, a review is presented in terms of memory Tregs differentiation and activation, the characteristics of memory Tregs and their role in pregnancy, and the correlation between memory Tregs and pregnancy complications. Furthermore, several potential therapeutic methods are investigated to restore the function of memory Tregs in accordance with immunopathologies arising from memory Tregs abnormalities and provide novel targets for diagnosing and treating pregnancy-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyang Chen
- School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Joanne Kwak-Kim
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernon Hills, IL, United States
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Wenjuan Wang
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Lin X, Li Z, Gong G, Wang H, Fang X, Mor G, Liao A. The immune checkpoint protein PD-1: Its emerging regulatory role in memory T cells. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 159:104130. [PMID: 37591180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104130] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Immunological memory helps the body rapidly develop immune defense when it re-encounters a bacterial or viral strain or encounters a similar mutation in healthy cells. The immune checkpoint molecule programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) influences memory T cell differentiation. However, the mechanism by which PD-1 regulates the development and maintenance of memory T cells and its impact on memory T cells function remain unclear. In this review, we first discuss the structure and function of PD-1 and then summarize the roles of PD-1 as a marker of tumor memory T cells and in tumor immunotherapy. We also discuss the potential mechanisms through which PD-1 regulates memory T cells development and maintenance during immune diseases such as viral infection-mediated diseases, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis, and list the effects of PD-1 on memory T cells in pregnancy and their function in maternal-fetal immune balance. A complete understanding of how PD-1 influences the development, maintenance, and function of memory T cells will provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of immune-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxiu Lin
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Zhijing Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Guangshun Gong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Huan Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Xuhui Fang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Gil Mor
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China; C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China.
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Chen Z, Huang J, Kwak-Kim J, Wang W. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and reproductive failures. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 156:103799. [PMID: 36724630 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The human conceptus is a semi-allograft, which is antigenically foreign to the mother. Hence, the implantation process needs mechanisms to prevent allograft rejection during successful pregnancy. Immune checkpoints are a group of inhibitory pathways expressed on the surface of various immune cells in the form of ligand receptors. Immune cells possess these pathways to regulate the magnitude of immune responses and induce maternal-fetal tolerance. Briefly, 1) CTLA-4 can weaken T cell receptor (TCR) signals and inhibit T cell response; 2) The PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can reduce T cell proliferation, enhance T cell anergy and fatigue, reduce cytokine production, and increase T regulatory cell activity to complete the immunosuppression; 3) TIM3 interacts with T cells by binding Gal-9, weakening Th1 cell-mediated immunity and T cell apoptosis; 4) The LAG-3 binding to MHC II can inhibit T cell activation by interfering with the binding of CD4 to MHC II, and; 5) TIGIT can release inhibitory signals to NK and T cells through the ITIM structure of its cytoplasmic tail. Therefore, dysregulated immune checkpoints or the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors may impair human reproduction. This review intends to deliver a comprehensive overview of immune checkpoints in pregnancy, including CTLA-4, PD-1/PD-L1, TIM-3, LAG-3, TIGIT, and their inhibitors, reviewing their roles in normal and pathological human pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyang Chen
- School of Medicine, Qingdao University, 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266000, PR China; Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Jinxia Huang
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Department of Gynecology, Weihai Central Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, 3 Mishan East Road, Weihai 264400, PR China
| | - Joanne Kwak-Kim
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernon Hills, IL 60061, USA; Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA.
| | - Wenjuan Wang
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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Wang W, Zhou X, Zhang Y, Chen Z, Huang J, Zhang X, Kwak-Kim J. The characteristics of antigenic specificity of memory regulatory t cells in women with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 154:103694. [PMID: 36063659 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) proliferate after encountering the fetal antigen, which plays an important role in maintaining maternal-fetal tolerance. Activated Tregs increase number and function after antigen encounter and develop memory. Upon subsequent antigen exposure, Treg cells re-expand more rapidly. However, the characteristics of memory regulatory T cells (mTregs) during normal pregnancy and unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (URPL) have not been elucidated well. In this study, we analyzed the proportion of Tregs and mTregs in the peripheral blood and their surface expression of PD-1, CCR6, and HLA-G in normal non-pregnant (n = 20) and pregnant (n = 20) women, and non-pregnant (n = 20) and pregnant URPL (n = 20) women. We found that the proportions of mTregs in lymphocytes, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, and Tregs were lower in pregnant URPL patients than in normal pregnant women. The proportions of CD4+CD45RO+ Th cells in lymphocytes, CD3+ T, and CD4+ T cells in the pregnant URPL group were the highest among the four groups (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences among the other three groups (P > 0.05). The proportions of CD4+/CCR6+/mTregs, CD4+/PD-1+/mTregs, CD4+/HLA-G+/mTregs were significantly lower in the non-pregnant normal group and non-pregnant URPL group than in normal pregnant group and pregnant URPL group (P < 0.05, respectively). The proportions of CD4+/CCR6+ mTregs, CD4+/PD-1+/mTregs, CD4+/HLA-G+/mTregs were lower in pregnant URPL group than in normal pregnant group (P < 0.05, respectively). These findings indicate that fetal antigen-specific mTregs play an important role in pregnancy maintenance, and the dysregulation of mTreg may contribute to URPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Wang
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Reproduction Medical Center, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, 20 Yuhuangding East Road, Yantai 264000, PR China.
| | - Xiaojiao Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, 20 Yuhuangding East Road, Yantai 264000, PR China; School of Medicine, Qingdao Universityō, 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266000, PR China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Zeyang Chen
- Reproduction Medical Center, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Department of Gynecology, Weihai Central Hospital, 3 Mishan East Road, Weihai 264400, PR China
| | - Jinxia Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, 20 Yuhuangding East Road, Yantai 264000, PR China
| | - Xiaolu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, 20 Yuhuangding East Road, Yantai 264000, PR China
| | - Joanne Kwak-Kim
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernon Hills, IL 60061, USA; Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA.
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Demery-Poulos C, Romero R, Xu Y, Arenas-Hernandez M, Miller D, Tao L, Galaz J, Farias-Jofre M, Bhatti G, Garcia-Flores V, Seyerle M, Tarca AL, Gomez-Lopez N. Pregnancy imparts distinct systemic adaptive immune function. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 88:e13606. [PMID: 35989229 PMCID: PMC9648024 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Pregnancy represents a state of systemic immune activation that is primarily driven by alterations in circulating innate immune cells. Recent studies have suggested that cellular adaptive immune components, T cells and B cells, also undergo changes throughout gestation. However, the phenotypes and functions of such adaptive immune cells are poorly understood. Herein, we utilized high-dimensional flow cytometry and functional assays to characterize T-cell and B-cell responses in pregnant and non-pregnant women. METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from pregnant (n = 20) and non-pregnant (n = 25) women were used for phenotyping of T-cell and B-cell subsets. T-cell proliferation and B-cell activation were assessed by flow cytometry after in vitro stimulation, and lymphocyte cytotoxicity was evaluated by using a cell-based assay. Statistical comparisons were performed with linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS Pregnancy was associated with modestly enhanced basal activation of peripheral CD4+ T cells. Both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from pregnant women showed increased activation-induced proliferation; yet, a reduced proportion of these cells expressed activation markers compared to non-pregnant women. There were no differences in peripheral lymphocyte cytotoxicity between study groups. A greater proportion of B cells from pregnant women displayed memory-like and activated phenotypes, and such cells exhibited higher activation following stimulation. CONCLUSION Maternal circulating T cells and B cells display distinct responses during pregnancy. The former may reflect the unique capacity of T cells to respond to potential threats without undergoing aberrant activation, thereby preventing systemic inflammatory responses that can lead to adverse perinatal consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Demery-Poulos
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Centerfor Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Yi Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Marcia Arenas-Hernandez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Derek Miller
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Li Tao
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Jose Galaz
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marcelo Farias-Jofre
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gaurav Bhatti
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Valeria Garcia-Flores
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Megan Seyerle
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Adi L. Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University College of Engineering, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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Examination of the TIGIT-CD226-CD112-CD155 Immune Checkpoint Network during a Healthy Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810776. [PMID: 36142692 PMCID: PMC9502426 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The importance of immune checkpoint molecules is well known in tumor and transplantation immunology; however, much less information is available regarding human pregnancy. Despite the significant amount of information about the TIGIT and CD226 immune checkpoint receptors in immune therapies, very little research has been conducted to study the possible role of these surface molecules and their ligands (CD112 and CD155) during the three trimesters of pregnancy. Methods: From peripheral blood, immune cell subpopulations were studied, and the surface expression of immune checkpoint molecules was analyzed by flow cytometry. Soluble immune checkpoint molecule levels were measured by ELISA. Results: Notable changes were observed regarding the percentage of monocyte subpopulation and the expression of CD226 receptor by CD4+ T and NKT cells. Elevated granzyme B content by the intermediate and non-classical monocytes was assessed as pregnancy proceeded. Furthermore, we revealed an important relationship between the CD226 surface expression by NKT cells and the serum CD226 level in the third trimester of pregnancy. Conclusions: Our results confirm the importance of immune checkpoint molecules in immunoregulation during pregnancy. CD226 seems to be a significant regulator, especially in the case of CD4+ T and NKT cells, contributing to the maternal immune tolerance in the late phase of pregnancy.
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Yang Y, Wang W, Weng J, Li H, Ma Y, Liu L, Ma W. Advances in the study of HLA class Ib in maternal-fetal immune tolerance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:976289. [PMID: 36105800 PMCID: PMC9465335 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.976289] [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: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The HLA class Ib molecule is an alloantigen that causes transplant rejection on behalf of individual human and plays an important role in maternal-fetal immune tolerance. Early studies on HLA class Ib focused on the mechanism of HLA-G-induced immune escape, but in recent years, studies on the mechanism of HLA-G have deepened and gradually explored the mechanism of HLA-E and HLA-F, which are also HLA class Ib molecules. In the maternal-fetal interface, trophoblast cells express HLA class Ib molecules to protect the fetus from maternal immune cells by binding to inhibitory receptors of decidual immune cells (DICs) and shifting Th1/Th2 balance toward Th2 bias. Further studies on the molecular mechanism of HLA class Ib molecules provide a reference for its application in the field of clinical assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Yang
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Endogenous Prophylactic of Ministry of Education of China, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wanning Wang
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Endogenous Prophylactic of Ministry of Education of China, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Weng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Weng, ; Lingyan Liu,
| | - Huifang Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanmin Ma
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lingyan Liu
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Endogenous Prophylactic of Ministry of Education of China, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Weng, ; Lingyan Liu,
| | - Wei Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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