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Nemeth J, Skronska-Wasek W, Keppler S, Schundner A, Groß A, Schoenberger T, Quast K, El Kasmi KC, Ruppert C, Günther A, Frick M. Adiponectin suppresses stiffness-dependent, profibrotic activation of lung fibroblasts. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2024; 327:L487-L502. [PMID: 39104319 PMCID: PMC11482465 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00037.2024] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, irreversible respiratory disease with limited therapeutic options. A hallmark of IPF is excessive fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. The resulting increase in tissue stiffness amplifies fibroblast activation and drives disease progression. Dampening stiffness-dependent activation of fibroblasts could slow disease progression. We performed an unbiased, next-generation sequencing (NGS) screen to identify signaling pathways involved in stiffness-dependent lung fibroblast activation. Adipocytokine signaling was downregulated in primary lung fibroblasts (PFs) cultured on stiff matrices. Re-activating adipocytokine signaling with adiponectin suppressed stiffness-dependent activation of human PFs. Adiponectin signaling depended on CDH13 expression and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase gamma (p38MAPKγ) activation. CDH13 expression and p38MAPKγ activation were strongly reduced in lungs from IPF donors. Our data suggest that adiponectin-signaling via CDH13 and p38MAPKγ activation suppresses profibrotic activation of fibroblasts in the lung. Targeting of the adiponectin signaling cascade may provide therapeutic benefits in IPF.NEW & NOTEWORTHY A hallmark of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is excessive fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. The resulting increase in tissue stiffness amplifies fibroblast activation and drives disease progression. Dampening stiffness-dependent activation of fibroblasts could slow disease progression. We found that activation of the adipocytokine signaling pathway halts and reverses stiffness-induced, profibrotic fibroblast activation. Specific targeting of this signaling cascade may therefore provide therapeutic benefits in IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Nemeth
- Institute of General Physiology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Sophie Keppler
- Institute of General Physiology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Alexander Groß
- Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Karsten Quast
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | | | - Clemens Ruppert
- Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Günther
- Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Center for Interstitial and Rare Lung Diseases, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Manfred Frick
- Institute of General Physiology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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2
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He J, Wang B, Chen M, Song L, Li H. Machine learning-based metabolism-related genes signature, single-cell RNA sequencing, and experimental validation in hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e34940. [PMID: 37800807 PMCID: PMC10553120 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000034940] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolism is involved in the pathogenesis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis. To identify diagnostic feature biomarkers based on metabolism-related genes (MRGs) and determine the correlation between MRGs and M2 macrophages in patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). We retrieved the gene expression matrix from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The differentially expressed MRGs (DE-MRGs) between healthy control (HC) and patients with HP were identified using the "DESeq2" R package. The "clusterProfiler" R package was used to perform "Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses" on DE-MRGs. We used machine learning algorithms for screening diagnostic feature biomarkers for HP. The "receiver operating characteristic curve" was used to evaluate diagnostic feature biomarkers' discriminating ability. Next, we used the "Cell-type Identification by Estimating Relative Subsets of RNA Transcripts" algorithm to determine the infiltration status of 22 types of immune cells in the HC and HP groups. Single-cell sequencing and qRT-PCR were used to validate the diagnostic feature biomarkers. Furthermore, the status of macrophage polarization in the peripheral blood of patients with HP was determined using flow cytometry. Finally, the correlation between the proportion of M2 macrophages in peripheral blood and the diagnostic biomarker expression profile in HP patients was determined using Spearman analysis. We identified a total of 311 DE-MRGs. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis showed that DE-MRGs were primarily enriched in processes like steroid hormone biosynthesis, drug metabolism, retinol metabolism, etc. Finally, we identified NPR3, GPX3, and SULF1 as diagnostic feature biomarkers for HP using machine learning algorithms. The bioinformatic results were validated using the experimental results. The CIERSORT algorithm and flow cytometry showed a significant difference in the proportion of M2 macrophages in the HC and HP groups. The expression of SULF1 was positively correlated with the proportion of M2-type macrophages. In addition, a positive correlation was observed between SULF1 expression and M2 macrophage proportion. Finally, we identified NPR3, GPX3, and SULF1 as diagnostic feature biomarkers for HP. Further, a correlation between SULF1 and M2 macrophages was observed, providing a novel perspective for treating patients with HP and future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie He
- Clinical Medical College of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Respiratory Diseases of Sichuan Higher Education Institutes, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Clinical Medical College of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Respiratory Diseases of Sichuan Higher Education Institutes, Chengdu, China
| | - Meifeng Chen
- Clinical Medical College of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Respiratory Diseases of Sichuan Higher Education Institutes, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingmeng Song
- Clinical Medical College of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Medical Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Hezhi Li
- Clinical Medical College of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
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Drakopanagiotakis F, Markart P, Steiropoulos P. Acute Exacerbations of Interstitial Lung Diseases: Focus on Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10196. [PMID: 37373339 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a large group of pulmonary disorders characterized histologically by the cardinal involvement of the pulmonary interstitium. The prototype of ILDs is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), an incurable disease characterized by progressive distortion and loss of normal lung architecture through unchecked collagen deposition. Acute exacerbations are dramatic events during the clinical course of ILDs, associated with high morbidity and mortality. Infections, microaspiration, and advanced lung disease might be involved in the pathogenesis of acute exacerbations. Despite clinical scores, the prediction of the onset and outcome of acute exacerbations is still inaccurate. Biomarkers are necessary to characterize acute exacerbations better. We review the evidence for alveolar epithelial cell, fibropoliferation, and immunity molecules as potential biomarkers for acute exacerbations of interstitial lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotios Drakopanagiotakis
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Medical School, Democritus University, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Philipp Markart
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Klinikum Fulda and University Medicine Campus Fulda, Pacelliallee 4, 36043 Fulda, Germany
| | - Paschalis Steiropoulos
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Medical School, Democritus University, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
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4
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An Increase in Plasma Adipsin Levels Is Associated With Higher Cumulative Dust Exposure and Airway Obstruction in Foundry Workers. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:203-209. [PMID: 36730948 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess whether plasma adipokine levels (adipsin, adiponectin, leptin, and resistin) are associated with pulmonary function in foundry workers. METHODS We examined 65 dust-exposed foundry workers and 40 nonexposed controls and analyzed their lung function and plasma adipokine levels at baseline and after approximately 7 years of follow-up. RESULTS A higher increase in plasma adipsin was associated with the development of airway obstruction in exposed subjects during follow-up after adjusting for body mass index changes during the follow-up period. Furthermore, the increase in adipsin levels was positively associated with cumulative dust exposure even after adjusting for smoking and body mass index changes during follow-up ( P = 0.015). CONCLUSION The results suggest that plasma adipsin is involved in the pathogenesis of subclinical airway inflammation and the development of chronic obstruction and is induced by occupational dust exposure.
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d’Alessandro M, Gangi S, Soccio P, Cantó E, Osuna-Gómez R, Bergantini L, Cameli P, Fabbri G, Croce S, Scioscia G, Montuori G, Fanetti M, Moriondo G, Mezzasalma F, Castillo D, Lacedonia D, Vidal S, Bargagli E. The Effects of Interstitial Lung Diseases on Alveolar Extracellular Vesicles Profile: A Multicenter Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044071. [PMID: 36835481 PMCID: PMC9964169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases (ILD) is difficult to perform. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) facilitate cell-to-cell communication, and they are released by a variety of cells. Our goal aimed to investigate EV markers in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), sarcoidosis and hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) cohorts. ILD patients followed at Siena, Barcelona and Foggia University Hospitals were enrolled. BAL supernatants were used to isolate the EVs. They were characterized by flow cytometry assay through MACSPlex Exsome KIT. The majority of alveolar EV markers were related to the fibrotic damage. CD56, CD105, CD142, CD31 and CD49e were exclusively expressed by alveolar samples from IPF patients, while HP showed only CD86 and CD24. Some EV markers were common between HP and sarcoidosis (CD11c, CD1c, CD209, CD4, CD40, CD44, CD8). Principal component analysis distinguished the three groups based on EV markers with total variance of 60.08%. This study has demonstrated the validity of the flow cytometric method to phenotype and characterize EV surface markers in BAL samples. The two granulomatous diseases, sarcoidosis and HP, cohorts shared alveolar EV markers not revealed in IPF patients. Our findings demonstrated the viability of the alveolar compartment allowing identification of lung-specific markers for IPF and HP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriana d’Alessandro
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +39-0577586713; Fax: +39-0577280744
| | - Sara Gangi
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Piera Soccio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Riuniti of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Elisabet Cantó
- Inflammatory Diseases, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rubén Osuna-Gómez
- Inflammatory Diseases, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Bergantini
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Paolo Cameli
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gaia Fabbri
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Sara Croce
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Scioscia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Riuniti of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Giusy Montuori
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Matteo Fanetti
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Moriondo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Riuniti of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Mezzasalma
- Diagnostic and Interventional Bronchoscopy Unit, Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University Hospital of Siena (Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese—AOUS), 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Diego Castillo
- Respiratory Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Sant Pau Biomedical Research Institute (IIB-Sant Pau), 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Donato Lacedonia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Riuniti of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Silvia Vidal
- Inflammatory Diseases, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Bargagli
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neuro-Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Diagnosis of Fibrotic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Is There a Role for Biomarkers? Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020565. [PMID: 36836922 PMCID: PMC9966605 DOI: 10.3390/life13020565] [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: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a complex interstitial lung syndrome and is associated with significant morbimortality, particularly for fibrotic disease. This condition is characterized by sensitization to a specific antigen, whose early identification is associated with improved outcomes. Biomarkers measure objectively biologic processes and may support clinical decisions. These tools evolved to play a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of human diseases. This is not the case, however, with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, where there is still great room for research in the path to find consensual diagnostic biomarkers. Gaps in the current evidence include lack of validation, validation against healthy controls alone, small sampling and heterogeneity in diagnostic and classification criteria. Furthermore, discriminatory accuracy is currently limited by overlapping mechanisms of inflammation, damage and fibrogenesis between ILDs. Still, biomarkers such as BAL lymphocyte counts and specific serum IgGs made their way into clinical guidelines, while others including KL-6, SP-D, YKL-40 and apolipoproteins have shown promising results in leading centers and have potential to translate into daily practice. As research proceeds, it is expected that the emergence of novel categories of biomarkers will offer new and thriving tools that could complement those currently available.
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7
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Wygrecka M, Alexopoulos I, Potaczek DP, Schaefer L. Diverse functions of apolipoprotein A-I in lung fibrosis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 324:C438-C446. [PMID: 36534503 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00491.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) mediates reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) out of cells. In addition to its important role in the RTC, apoA-I also possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidative functions including the ability to activate inflammasome and signal via toll-like receptors. Dysfunctional apoA-I or its low abundance may cause accumulation of cholesterol mass in alveolar macrophages, leading to the formation of foam cells. Increased numbers of foam cells have been noted in the lungs of mice after experimental exposure to cigarette smoke, silica, or bleomycin and in the lungs of patients suffering from different types of lung fibrosis, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This suggests that dysregulation of lipid metabolism may be a common event in the pathogenesis of interstitial lung diseases. Recognition of the emerging role of cholesterol in the regulation of lung inflammation and remodeling provides a challenging concept for understanding lung diseases and offers novel and exciting avenues for therapeutic development. Accordingly, a number of preclinical studies demonstrated decreased expression of inflammatory and profibrotic mediators and preserved lung tissue structure following the administration of the apoA-I or its mimetic peptides. This review highlights the role of apoA-I in lung fibrosis and provides evidence for its potential use in the treatment of this pathological condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Wygrecka
- Center for Infection and Genomics of the Lung (CIGL), Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, Giessen, Germany.,Institute of Lung Health, German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Ioannis Alexopoulos
- Center for Infection and Genomics of the Lung (CIGL), Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, Giessen, Germany.,Multiscale Imaging Platform, Institute for Lung Health (ILH), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Daniel P Potaczek
- Translational Inflammation Research Division & Core Facility for Single Cell Multiomics, Medical Faculty, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,Bioscientia MVZ Labor Mittelhessen GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Liliana Schaefer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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8
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Taveras J, Garcia-Maurino C, Moore-Clingenpeel M, Xu Z, Mertz S, Ye F, Chen P, Cohen SH, Cohen D, Peeples ME, Ramilo O, Mejias A. Type III Interferons, Viral Loads, Age, and Disease Severity in Young Children With Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection. J Infect Dis 2022; 227:61-70. [PMID: 36200173 PMCID: PMC10205614 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac404] [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: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The interplay among respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) loads, mucosal interferons (IFN), and disease severity in RSV-infected children is poorly understood. METHODS Children <2 years of age with mild (outpatients) or severe (inpatients) RSV infection and healthy controls were enrolled, and nasopharyngeal samples obtained for RSV loads and innate cytokines quantification. Patients were stratified by age (0-6 and >6-24 months) and multivariable analyses performed to identify predictors of disease severity. RESULTS In 2015-2019 we enrolled 219 RSV-infected children (78 outpatients; 141 inpatients) and 34 healthy controls. Type I, II, and III IFN concentrations were higher in children aged >6 versus 0-6 months and, like CXCL10, they were higher in outpatients than inpatients and correlated with RSV loads (P < .05). Higher IL6 concentrations increased the odds of hospitalization (odds ratio [OR], 2.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07-5.36) only in children >6 months, while higher IFN-λ2/3 concentrations had the opposite effect irrespective of age (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, .15-.86). Likewise, higher CXCL10 concentrations decreased the odds of hospitalization (OR, 0.21; 95% CI, .08-.48), oxygen administration (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, .21-.80),PICU admission (OR, 0.39; 95% CI, .20-.73), and prolonged hospitalization (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, .32-.98) irrespective of age. CONCLUSIONS Children with milder RSV infection and those aged >6 months had higher concentrations of mucosal IFNs, suggesting that maturation of mucosal IFN responses are associated with protection against severe RSV disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette Taveras
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Cristina Garcia-Maurino
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Melissa Moore-Clingenpeel
- Biostatistics Core, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Zhaohui Xu
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Sara Mertz
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Fang Ye
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Phyl Chen
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Shira H Cohen
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Daniel Cohen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Emergency Medicine at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Mark E Peeples
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Octavio Ramilo
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Asuncion Mejias
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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9
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d’Alessandro M, Conticini E, Bergantini L, Cameli P, Cantarini L, Frediani B, Bargagli E. Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis and Interstitial Lung Disease: A Scoping Review. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12020317. [PMID: 35207604 PMCID: PMC8877891 DOI: 10.3390/life12020317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Deregulated neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation is implicated in various diseases, including ANCA-associated vasculitis and pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Lung involvement is frequent in AAV, and interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are strongly related to MPO-ANCA positivity and mainly reported in microscopic polyangiitis. The association between AAV and ILD is a strong indicator of poor prognosis and limited survival. Neutrophils, ANCA and NET interplay in PF development in AAV. This study aimed to review the literature concerning the implications of NET in lung fibrogenesis specifically focused on AAV associated with ILD, and the potential of NET as a theranostic marker. Methods: Through scoping review methodology, we used a descriptive thematic analysis to understand the pathogenic role of NETs in patients with AAV and pulmonary fibrosis and their further role as a theranostic marker of this disease. Results: The implications of NET in the pathogenesis of AAV and ILD, as well as an association between these two diseases, have been identified, but the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are still unknown. The pharmacological or genetic inhibition of NET release reduces disease severity in multiple inflammatory disease models, indicating that NETs are potential therapeutic targets. In this regard, despite the lack of clinical data, we may hypothesise that an optimal management of AAV-ILD patients would require not only B-cells targeted therapy, but also NETs inhibition. Conclusion: Preliminary findings seem to display a lack of efficacy of traditional immunosuppressants, such as Rituximab, in this subset of patients, while to date no patients suffering from a definite ILD have been enrolled in clinical trials. Further insights would be provided by their employment, as a combination treatment, in common clinical practice. Although we can imagine that the inhibition of NETs in patients with AAV-ILD could reduce severity and mortality, we still lack the scientific basis that could improve our understanding of the disease from a molecular point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriana d’Alessandro
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Edoardo Conticini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery & Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.C.); (B.F.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura Bergantini
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Paolo Cameli
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Luca Cantarini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery & Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.C.); (B.F.)
| | - Bruno Frediani
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery & Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.C.); (B.F.)
| | - Elena Bargagli
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.); (E.B.)
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10
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Bergantini L, d'Alessandro M, Cameli P, Otranto A, Finco T, Curatola G, Sestini P, Bargagli E. Prognostic role of NK cell percentages in bronchoalveolar lavage from patients with different fibrotic interstitial lung diseases. Clin Immunol 2021; 230:108827. [PMID: 34428741 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BAL cellularity and lymphocyte immunophenotyping offer insights into lung inflammatory status. Natural killer (NK) cells are efficient effector cells, producing pro-inflammatory cytokines. A better understanding of the biology of NK cells in BAL in the lungs is necessary to improve the pathogenesis of fibrotic ILD and develop prospective targeted treatments. Our aim was to analyse NK and NKT-like cell percentages in BAL from 159 patients with different ILD: f-HP, f-NSIP, IPF and CTD-ILD, to evaluate their potential diagnostic/prognostic role. BAL NK cell percentages showed significantly higher values in IPF than in f-HP and f-NSIP, while BAL NKT-like cells showed significantly lower values in the f-NSIP than the f-HP and IPF. A cut-off of 4%NK cells in BAL of IPF showed a significant difference in survival rate. It suggests a possible new marker of survival and raises the possibility of new targeted approach in treatment and management of IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bergantini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neuroscience, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy.
| | - Miriana d'Alessandro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neuroscience, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Paolo Cameli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neuroscience, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Ambra Otranto
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neuroscience, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Finco
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neuroscience, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Curatola
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neuroscience, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Piersante Sestini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neuroscience, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Elena Bargagli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neuroscience, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
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11
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Bergantini L, d'Alessandro M, Cameli P, Perrone A, Cekorja B, Boncompagni B, Mazzei MA, Sestini P, Bargagli E. Integrated approach to bronchoalveolar lavage cytology to distinguish interstitial lung diseases. Eur J Intern Med 2021; 89:76-80. [PMID: 33931268 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) is a safe diagnostic procedure, useful for differentiating fibrotic lung disorders and for excluding malignancy and infection. A recent multicenter study demonstrated a new, relatively sensitive, and specific index called Bronchoalveolar Cytology Threshold (BCT), useful for distinguishing healthy individuals from patients with lung diseases. OBJECTIVES In our study, BCT was applied for the first time to the analysis of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), investigating its potential for differential diagnosis. Combinations of BAL cells that improve diagnostic accuracy for ILDs were studied and are proposed. METHODS A retrospective analysis of BAL samples was performed. We considered more than 1000 BAL samples from patients investigated for ILD, performed at Siena University Hospital. The samples enrolled for the study included 468 patients: 413 with and 55 without ILD. BAL was performed for diagnostic purposes in line with international guidelines. BCT were calculated according to available literature. RESULTS Among ILDs, patients with fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and sarcoidosis showed significantly lower BCTs than unclassified ILD. Asbestosis patients showed significantly lower BCTs than nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP), cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP), connective tissue disease related ILD (CTD-ILD), sarcoidosis and unclassified ILD patients. COP patients showed significantly higher BCT than IPF, f-HP and sarcoidosis. Moreover, COP patients were best distinguished by BCT. CONCLUSION The analysis of BAL features is currently included in the diagnostic algorithm of ILDs. BAL cell patterns and BCT index can provide useful information for distinguishing ILDs, reducing the need for invasive procedures. Integrated approaches to BAL analysis can improve the interpretation of results without further cost or loss of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bergantini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy.
| | - Miriana d'Alessandro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Paolo Cameli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Perrone
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Behar Cekorja
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Bianca Boncompagni
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Mazzei
- Unit of Diagnostic Imaging, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neuro Sciences and of Radiological Sciences, University of Siena, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Piersante Sestini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
| | - Elena Bargagli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Respiratory Disease and Lung Transplant Unit, Siena University, Siena, Italy
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12
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Bowman WS, Echt GA, Oldham JM. Biomarkers in Progressive Fibrosing Interstitial Lung Disease: Optimizing Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Treatment Response. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:680997. [PMID: 34041256 PMCID: PMC8141562 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.680997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) comprises a heterogenous group of diffuse lung disorders that commonly result in irreversible pulmonary fibrosis. While idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the prototypical progressive fibrosing ILD (PF-ILD), a high proportion of patients with other ILD subtypes develop a PF-ILD phenotype. Evidence exists for shared pathobiology leading to progressive fibrosis, suggesting that biomarkers of disease activity may prove informative across the wide spectrum of ILDs. Biomarker investigation to date has identified a number of molecular markers that predict relevant ILD endpoints, including disease presence, prognosis, and/or treatment response. In this review, we provide an overview of potentially informative biomarkers in patients with ILD, including those suggestive of a PF-ILD phenotype. We highlight the recent genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic investigations that identified these biomarkers and discuss the body compartments in which they are found, including the peripheral blood, airway, and lung parenchyma. Finally, we identify critical gaps in knowledge within the field of ILD biomarker research and propose steps to advance the field toward biomarker implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willis S Bowman
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Gabrielle A Echt
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Justin M Oldham
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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13
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d’Alessandro M, Soccio P, Bergantini L, Cameli P, Scioscia G, Foschino Barbaro MP, Lacedonia D, Bargagli E. Extracellular Vesicle Surface Signatures in IPF Patients: A Multiplex Bead-Based Flow Cytometry Approach. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051045. [PMID: 33925174 PMCID: PMC8146446 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are secreted by cells from their membrane within circulation and body fluids. Knowledge of the involvement of EVs in pathogenesis of lung diseases is increasing. The present study aimed to evaluate the expression of exosomal surface epitopes in a cohort of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients followed in two Italian Referral Centres for Interstitial Lung Diseases, comparing them with a group of healthy volunteers. Materials and Methods: Ninety IPF patients (median age and interquartile range (IQR) 71 (66–75) years; 69 males) were selected retrospectively. Blood samples were obtained from patients before starting antifibrotic therapy. A MACSPlex Exosome Kit, human, (Miltenyi Biotec, Bergisch-Gladbach, Germany), to detect 37 exosomal surface epitopes, was used. Results: CD19, CD69, CD8, and CD86 were significantly higher in IPF patients than in controls (p = 0.0023, p = 0.0471, p = 0.0082, and p = 0.0143, respectively). CD42a was lower in IPF subjects than in controls (p = 0.0153), while CD209, Cd133/1, MCSP, and ROR1 were higher in IPF patients than in controls (p = 0.0007, p = 0.0050, p = 0.0139, and p = 0.0335, respectively). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for IPF patients: for median values and a cut-off of 0.48 for CD25, the two subgroups showed a significant difference in survival rate (p = 0.0243, hazard ratio: 0.52 (95%CI 0.29–0.92); the same was true for CD8 (cut-off 1.53, p = 0.0309, hazard ratio: 1.39 (95%CI 0.75–2.53). Conclusion: Our multicenter study showed for the first time the expression of surface epitopes on EVs from IPF patients, providing interesting data on the communication signatures/exosomal profile in serum from IPF patients and new insights into the pathogenesis of the disease and a promising reliability in predicting mid-term survival of IPF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriana d’Alessandro
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.B.); (P.C.); (E.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-057-758-6713; Fax: +39-057-728-0744
| | - Piera Soccio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (P.S.); (G.S.); (M.P.F.B.); (D.L.)
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Riuniti of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Laura Bergantini
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.B.); (P.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Paolo Cameli
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.B.); (P.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Giulia Scioscia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (P.S.); (G.S.); (M.P.F.B.); (D.L.)
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Riuniti of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Foschino Barbaro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (P.S.); (G.S.); (M.P.F.B.); (D.L.)
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Riuniti of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Donato Lacedonia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (P.S.); (G.S.); (M.P.F.B.); (D.L.)
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Riuniti of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Elena Bargagli
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.B.); (P.C.); (E.B.)
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14
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Jabbari P, Sadeghalvad M, Rezaei N. An inflammatory triangle in Sarcoidosis: PPAR-γ, immune microenvironment, and inflammation. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 21:1451-1459. [PMID: 33798017 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2021.1913118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disorder characterized by granuloma formation in several organs. Sarcoidosis patients experience higher inflammatory responses resulting in pulmonary fibrosis. Although the precise mechanisms have not been well elucidated, the relationship between the immune system activation and inflammatory status is pivotal in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis. AREAS COVERED Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) includes the transcription factors involved in cell metabolism, proliferation, and immune response. In the alveolar macrophages of patients with sarcoidosis, the reduced activity and a decreased level of PPAR-γ have been shown. In this study, we discuss how reducing the level of PPAR-γ could lead to increased inflammation and immune responses in patients with sarcoidosis. EXPERT OPINION Lack of PPAR-γ may contribute to the development of a suitable milieu for the formation of immune-associated pulmonary granuloma. Reduced levels of PPAR-γ in sarcoidosis could result from over-activation of the immune system and elevated inflammatory responses, as well. Due to the anti-inflammatory function of PPAR-γ, identifying the relation between PPAR-γ, sarcoidosis development, and inflammatory state could be essential to identify the appropriate therapeutic targets. The synthesis of PPAR-γ agonists or PPAR-γ ligands may be an effective step toward the treatment of sarcoidosis patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parnia Jabbari
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Sadeghalvad
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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15
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Predictive Biomarkers of COVID-19 Severity in SARS-CoV-2 Infected Patients with Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11030227. [PMID: 33809913 PMCID: PMC8004138 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11030227] [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: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In SARS-CoV-2-infected patients, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes are dangerous factors that may result in death. Priority in detection and specific therapies for these patients are necessary. We wanted to investigate the impact of obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS) on the clinical course of COVID-19 and whether prognostic biomarkers described are useful to predict the evolution of COVID-19 in patients with obesity or MS. This prospective cohort study included 303 patients hospitalized for COVID-19. Participants were first classified according to the presence of obesity; then, they were classified according to the presence of MS. Clinical, radiologic, and analytical parameters were collected. We reported that patients with obesity presented moderate COVID-19 symptoms and pneumonia, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and needed tocilizumab more frequently. Meanwhile, patients with MS presented severe pneumonia and respiratory failure more frequently, they have a higher mortality rate, and they also showed higher creatinine and troponin levels. The main findings of this study are that IL-6 is a potential predictor of COVID-19 severity in patients with obesity, while troponin and LDH can be used as predictive biomarkers of COVID-19 severity in MS patients. Therefore, treatment for COVID-19 in patients with obesity or MS should probably be intensified and personalized.
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16
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d'Alessandro M, Bergantini L, Cameli P, Fanetti M, Alderighi L, Armati M, Refini RM, Alonzi V, Sestini P, Bargagli E. Immunologic responses to antifibrotic treatment in IPF patients. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 95:107525. [PMID: 33714885 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive interstitial lung disease limited to the lungs. Immunological dysregulation may significantly participate in the pathophysiology of IPF. The immunological responses to nintedanib therapy in IPF patients were investigated for the first time in this study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty IPF patients (median age (IQR) 69 (65-75) years; 38 males), were selected retrospectively. Flowcytometry analysis were performed to phenotype immunological biomarkers in peripheral blood from IPF patients after 1 year of antifibrotic therapy and a group of healthy volunteers. RESULTS Before starting antifibrotic treatment, IPF patients showed increased CD1d+CD5+ (p = 0.0460), Treg (p = 0.0354), T effector (CD25highCD127high) (p = 0.0336), central cells (CD4+CD45RA-) (p = 0.0354), effector cells (CD4+CD45RA+) (p = 0.0249) and follicular cell percentages (p = 0.0006), notably Tfh1 (p = 0.0412) and Tfh17 (p = 0.0051) cell percentages, in respect with healthy controls (HC). After nintedanib therapy, Breg (p = 0.0302), T effector (p = 0.0468), Th17.1 (p = 0.0146) and follicular cells (p = 0.0006), notably Tfh1 (p = 0.0006) and Tfh17 (p = 0.0182) cell percentages, were significantly decreased. In the logistic regression, Tfh panel showed a significant area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) to distinguish IPF than HC (90.5%), as well as t0 and t1 (99.3%). CONCLUSION In conclusion, the immunological results obtained in this study demonstrate that nintedanib significantly helps to restore immunological responses in IPF patients. These findings will be useful in the search for biomarkers predictive of response to antifibrotic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriana d'Alessandro
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy.
| | - Laura Bergantini
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Paolo Cameli
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Matteo Fanetti
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Alderighi
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Martina Armati
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Rosa Metella Refini
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Valerio Alonzi
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Piersante Sestini
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Elena Bargagli
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena 53100, Italy
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17
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Bargagli E, Refini RM, d’Alessandro M, Bergantini L, Cameli P, Vantaggiato L, Bini L, Landi C. Metabolic Dysregulation in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165663. [PMID: 32784632 PMCID: PMC7461042 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fibroproliferative disorder limited to the lung. New findings, starting from our proteomics studies on IPF, suggest that systemic involvement with altered molecular mechanisms and metabolic disorder is an underlying cause of fibrosis. The role of metabolic dysregulation in the pathogenesis of IPF has not been extensively studied, despite a recent surge of interest. In particular, our studies on bronchoalveolar lavage fluid have shown that the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), the hypoxia/oxidative stress response, and changes in iron and lipid metabolism are involved in onset of IPF. These processes appear to interact in an intricate manner and to be related to different fibrosing pathologies not directly linked to the lung environment. The disordered metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and hormones has been documented in lung, liver, and kidney fibrosis. Correcting these metabolic alterations may offer a new strategy for treating fibrosis. This paper focuses on the role of metabolic dysregulation in the pathogenesis of IPF and is a continuation of our previous studies, investigating metabolic dysregulation as a new target for fibrosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bargagli
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.B.); (R.M.R.); (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Rosa Metella Refini
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.B.); (R.M.R.); (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Miriana d’Alessandro
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.B.); (R.M.R.); (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Laura Bergantini
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.B.); (R.M.R.); (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Paolo Cameli
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.B.); (R.M.R.); (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Lorenza Vantaggiato
- Functional Proteomics Lab, Department Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.V.); (L.B.)
| | - Luca Bini
- Functional Proteomics Lab, Department Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.V.); (L.B.)
| | - Claudia Landi
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplant Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.B.); (R.M.R.); (M.d.); (L.B.); (P.C.)
- Functional Proteomics Lab, Department Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.V.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0577-234-937
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