1
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Hosaka N. Thymus transplantation as immunotherapy for the enhancement and/or correction of T cell function. Med Mol Morphol 2024:10.1007/s00795-024-00394-z. [PMID: 38935299 DOI: 10.1007/s00795-024-00394-z] [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: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The thymus is where T cells, among the most important immune cells involved in biological defense and homeostasis, are produced and developed. The thymus plays an important role in the defense against infection and cancer as well as the prevention of autoimmune diseases. However, the thymus gland atrophies with age, which might have pathological functions, and in some circumstances, there is a congenital defect in the thymus. These can be the cause of many diseases related to the dysregulation of T cell functions. Thus, the enhancement and/or normalization of thymic function may lead to protection against and treatment of a wide variety of diseases. Therefore, thymus transplantation is considered a strong candidate for permanent treatment. The status and issues related to thymus transplantation for possible immunotherapy are discussed although it is still at an early stage of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Hosaka
- Department of Pathology, Fuchu Hospital, 1-10-7 Hiko-Cho, Izumi, Osaka, 594-0076, Japan.
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-1010, Japan.
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2
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Stankiewicz LN, Rossi FMV, Zandstra PW. Rebuilding and rebooting immunity with stem cells. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:597-616. [PMID: 38593798 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.03.012] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Advances in modern medicine have enabled a rapid increase in lifespan and, consequently, have highlighted the immune system as a key driver of age-related disease. Immune regeneration therapies present exciting strategies to address age-related diseases by rebooting the host's primary lymphoid tissues or rebuilding the immune system directly via biomaterials or artificial tissue. Here, we identify important, unanswered questions regarding the safety and feasibility of these therapies. Further, we identify key design parameters that should be primary considerations guiding technology design, including timing of application, interaction with the host immune system, and functional characterization of the target patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura N Stankiewicz
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Peter W Zandstra
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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3
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Lim S, J F van Son G, Wisma Eka Yanti NL, Andersson-Rolf A, Willemsen S, Korving J, Lee HG, Begthel H, Clevers H. Derivation of functional thymic epithelial organoid lines from adult murine thymus. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114019. [PMID: 38551965 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114019] [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: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) orchestrate T cell development by imposing positive and negative selection on thymocytes. Current studies on TEC biology are hampered by the absence of long-term ex vivo culture platforms, while the cells driving TEC self-renewal remain to be identified. Here, we generate long-term (>2 years) expandable 3D TEC organoids from the adult mouse thymus. For further analysis, we generated single and double FoxN1-P2A-Clover, Aire-P2A-tdTomato, and Cldn4-P2A-tdTomato reporter lines by CRISPR knockin. Single-cell analyses of expanding clonal organoids reveal cells with bipotent stem/progenitor phenotypes. These clonal organoids can be induced to express Foxn1 and to generate functional cortical- and Aire-expressing medullary-like TECs upon RANK ligand + retinoic acid treatment. TEC organoids support T cell development from immature thymocytes in vitro as well as in vivo upon transplantation into athymic nude mice. This organoid-based platform allows in vitro study of TEC biology and offers a potential strategy for ex vivo T cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangho Lim
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CT, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Gijs J F van Son
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; The Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht 3584 CS, the Netherlands
| | - Ni Luh Wisma Eka Yanti
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CT, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Amanda Andersson-Rolf
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CT, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sam Willemsen
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CT, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Korving
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CT, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hong-Gyun Lee
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Harry Begthel
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CT, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Clevers
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CT, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; The Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht 3584 CS, the Netherlands.
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4
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Seo J, Saha S, Brown ME. The past, present, and future promise of pluripotent stem cells. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE 2024; 22-23:100077. [PMID: 38706532 PMCID: PMC11065261 DOI: 10.1016/j.regen.2024.100077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Matthew E. Brown
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53792, United States
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5
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Fu Y, Zhang X, Wu H, Zhang P, Liu S, Guo T, Shan H, Liang Y, Chen H, Xie J, Duan Y. HOXA3 functions as the on-off switch to regulate the development of hESC-derived third pharyngeal pouch endoderm through EPHB2-mediated Wnt pathway. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1258074. [PMID: 38259452 PMCID: PMC10800530 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1258074] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Normal commitment of the endoderm of the third pharyngeal pouch (3PP) is essential for the development and differentiation of the thymus. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of transcription factor HOXA3 in the development and differentiation of 3PP endoderm (3PPE) from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Methods The 3PPE was differentiated from hESC-derived definitive endoderm (DE) by mimicking developmental queues with Activin A, WNT3A, retinoic acid and BMP4. The function of 3PPE was assessed by further differentiating into functional thymic epithelial cells (TECs). The effect of HOXA3 inhibition on cells of 3PPE was subsequently investigated. Results A highly efficient approach for differentiating 3PPE cells was developed and these cells expressed 3PPE related genes HOXA3, SIX1, PAX9 as well as EpCAM. 3PPE cells had a strong potential to develop into TECs which expressed both cortical TEC markers K8 and CD205, and medullary TEC markers K5 and AIRE, and also promoted the development and maturation of T cells. More importantly, transcription factor HOXA3 not only regulated the differentiation of 3PPE, but also had a crucial role for the proliferation and migration of 3PPE cells. Our further investigation revealed that HOXA3 controlled the commitment and function of 3PPE through the regulation of Wnt signaling pathway by activating EPHB2. Conclusion Our results demonstrated that HOXA3 functioned as the on-off switch to regulate the development of hESC-derived 3PPE through EPHB2-mediated Wnt pathway, and our findings will provide new insights into studying the development of 3PP and thymic organ in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Fu
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueyan Zhang
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haibin Wu
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pingping Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shoupei Liu
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tingting Guo
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huanhuan Shan
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Honglin Chen
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghe Xie
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuyou Duan
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, the Second Affiliation Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Translational Medicine, Institutes for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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6
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James EA, Joglekar AV, Linnemann AK, Russ HA, Kent SC. The beta cell-immune cell interface in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Mol Metab 2023; 78:101809. [PMID: 37734713 PMCID: PMC10622886 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2023.101809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND T1D is an autoimmune disease in which pancreatic islets of Langerhans are infiltrated by immune cells resulting in the specific destruction of insulin-producing islet beta cells. Our understanding of the factors leading to islet infiltration and the interplay of the immune cells with target beta cells is incomplete, especially in human disease. While murine models of T1D have provided crucial information for both beta cell and autoimmune cell function, the translation of successful therapies in the murine model to human disease has been a challenge. SCOPE OF REVIEW Here, we discuss current state of the art and consider knowledge gaps concerning the interface of the islet beta cell with immune infiltrates, with a focus on T cells. We discuss pancreatic and immune cell phenotypes and their impact on cell function in health and disease, which we deem important to investigate further to attain a more comprehensive understanding of human T1D disease etiology. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS The last years have seen accelerated development of approaches that allow comprehensive study of human T1D. Critically, recent studies have contributed to our revised understanding that the pancreatic beta cell assumes an active role, rather than a passive position, during autoimmune disease progression. The T cell-beta cell interface is a critical axis that dictates beta cell fate and shapes autoimmune responses. This includes the state of the beta cell after processing internal and external cues (e.g., stress, inflammation, genetic risk) that that contributes to the breaking of tolerance by hyperexpression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I with presentation of native and neoepitopes and secretion of chemotactic factors to attract immune cells. We anticipate that emerging insights about the molecular and cellular aspects of disease initiation and progression processes will catalyze the development of novel and innovative intervention points to provide additional therapies to individuals affected by T1D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eddie A James
- Center for Translational Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alok V Joglekar
- Center for Systems Immunology and Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amelia K Linnemann
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, and Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Holger A Russ
- Diabetes Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sally C Kent
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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7
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Nakatsuka R, Kato T, Zhang R, Uemura Y, Sasaki Y, Matsuoka Y, Shirouzu Y, Fujioka T, Yamashita H, Hattori F, Nozaki T, Ogata H, Hitomi H. The Induction of Parathyroid Cell Differentiation from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Promoted Via TGF-α/EGFR Signaling. Stem Cells Dev 2023; 32:670-680. [PMID: 37639359 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2023.0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The parathyroid gland plays an essential role in mineral and bone metabolism. Cultivation of physiological human parathyroid cells has yet to be established and the method by which parathyroid cells differentiate from pluripotent stem cells remains uncertain. Therefore, it has been hard to clarify the mechanisms underlying the onset of parathyroid disorders, such as hyperparathyroidism. In this study, we developed a new method of parathyroid cell differentiation from human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Parathyroid cell differentiation occurred in accordance with embryologic development. Differentiated cells, which expressed the parathyroid hormone, adopted unique cell aggregation similar to the parathyroid gland. In addition, these differentiated cells were identified as calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR)/epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) double-positive cells. Interestingly, stimulation with transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α), which is considered a causative molecule of parathyroid hyperplasia, increased the CaSR/EpCAM double-positive cells, but this effect was suppressed by erlotinib, which is an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor. These results suggest that TGF-α/EGFR signaling promotes parathyroid cell differentiation from iPS cells in a similar manner to parathyroid hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryusuke Nakatsuka
- Department of iPS Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Dentistry, Osaka Dental University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tadashi Kato
- Department of iPS Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Showa University Northern Yokohama Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Rong Zhang
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yasushi Uemura
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuka Sasaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Dentistry, Osaka Dental University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Matsuoka
- Department of iPS Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Shirouzu
- Department of iPS Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Fujioka
- Department of iPS Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiromi Yamashita
- Department of iPS Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Fumiyuki Hattori
- Department of iPS Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tadashige Nozaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Dentistry, Osaka Dental University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Ogata
- Department of Internal Medicine, Showa University Northern Yokohama Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Hitomi
- Department of iPS Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
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8
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Kearns NA, Lobo M, Genga RMJ, Abramowitz RG, Parsi KM, Min J, Kernfeld EM, Huey JD, Kady J, Hennessy E, Brehm MA, Ziller MJ, Maehr R. Generation and molecular characterization of human pluripotent stem cell-derived pharyngeal foregut endoderm. Dev Cell 2023; 58:1801-1818.e15. [PMID: 37751684 PMCID: PMC10637111 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.08.024] [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: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Approaches to study human pharyngeal foregut endoderm-a developmental intermediate that is linked to various human syndromes involving pharynx development and organogenesis of tissues such as thymus, parathyroid, and thyroid-have been hampered by scarcity of tissue access and cellular models. We present an efficient stepwise differentiation method to generate human pharyngeal foregut endoderm from pluripotent stem cells. We determine dose and temporal requirements of signaling pathway engagement for optimized differentiation and characterize the differentiation products on cellular and integrated molecular level. We present a computational classification tool, "CellMatch," and transcriptomic classification of differentiation products on an integrated mouse scRNA-seq developmental roadmap confirms cellular maturation. Integrated transcriptomic and chromatin analyses infer differentiation stage-specific gene regulatory networks. Our work provides the method and integrated multiomic resource for the investigation of disease-relevant loci and gene regulatory networks and their role in developmental defects affecting the pharyngeal endoderm and its derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola A Kearns
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Macrina Lobo
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ryan M J Genga
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ryan G Abramowitz
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Krishna M Parsi
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jiang Min
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Eric M Kernfeld
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jack D Huey
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jamie Kady
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Erica Hennessy
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Michael A Brehm
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Michael J Ziller
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - René Maehr
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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9
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Zheng H, Chen Y, Luo Q, Zhang J, Huang M, Xu Y, Huo D, Shan W, Tie R, Zhang M, Qian P, Huang H. Generating hematopoietic cells from human pluripotent stem cells: approaches, progress and challenges. CELL REGENERATION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 12:31. [PMID: 37656237 PMCID: PMC10474004 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-023-00175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have been suggested as a potential source for the production of blood cells for clinical application. In two decades, almost all types of blood cells can be successfully generated from hPSCs through various differentiated strategies. Meanwhile, with a deeper understanding of hematopoiesis, higher efficiency of generating progenitors and precursors of blood cells from hPSCs is achieved. However, how to generate large-scale mature functional cells from hPSCs for clinical use is still difficult. In this review, we summarized recent approaches that generated both hematopoietic stem cells and mature lineage cells from hPSCs, and remarked their efficiency and mechanisms in producing mature functional cells. We also discussed the major challenges in hPSC-derived products of blood cells and provided some potential solutions. Our review summarized efficient, simple, and defined methodologies for developing good manufacturing practice standards for hPSC-derived blood cells, which will facilitate the translation of these products into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiqiong Zheng
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Yijin Chen
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Qian Luo
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Mengmeng Huang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Yulin Xu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Dawei Huo
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Wei Shan
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Ruxiu Tie
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
| | - Pengxu Qian
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
- Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine and Bone Marrow Transplantation Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - He Huang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Laboratory for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
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10
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Jeon S, Lee YS, Oh SR, Jeong J, Lee DH, So KH, Hwang NS. Recent advances in endocrine organoids for therapeutic application. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114959. [PMID: 37301512 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The endocrine system, consisting of the hypothalamus, pituitary, endocrine glands, and hormones, plays a critical role in hormone metabolic interactions. The complexity of the endocrine system is a significant obstacle to understanding and treating endocrine disorders. Notably, advances in endocrine organoid generation allow a deeper understanding of the endocrine system by providing better comprehension of molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis. Here, we highlight recent advances in endocrine organoids for a wide range of therapeutic applications, from cell transplantation therapy to drug toxicity screening, combined with development in stem cell differentiation and gene editing technologies. In particular, we provide insights into the transplantation of endocrine organoids to reverse endocrine dysfunctions and progress in developing strategies for better engraftments. We also discuss the gap between preclinical and clinical research. Finally, we provide future perspectives for research on endocrine organoids for the development of more effective treatments for endocrine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suwan Jeon
- Interdisciplinary Program for Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Sun Lee
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Seh Ri Oh
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinseong Jeong
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hyun Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program for Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Ha So
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Bio-MAX/N-Bio Institute, Institute of Bio-Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Nathaniel S Hwang
- Interdisciplinary Program for Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Bio-MAX/N-Bio Institute, Institute of Bio-Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Institute of Engineering Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Ramos SA, Armitage LH, Morton JJ, Alzofon N, Handler D, Kelly G, Homann D, Jimeno A, Russ HA. Generation of functional thymic organoids from human pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:829-840. [PMID: 36963390 PMCID: PMC10147832 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus is critical for the establishment of a functional and self-tolerant adaptive immune system but involutes with age, resulting in reduced naive T cell output. Generation of a functional human thymus from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) is an attractive regenerative strategy. Direct differentiation of thymic epithelial progenitors (TEPs) from hPSCs has been demonstrated in vitro, but functional thymic epithelial cells (TECs) only form months after transplantation of TEPs in vivo. We show the generation of TECs in vitro in isogenic stem cell-derived thymic organoids (sTOs) consisting of TEPs, hematopoietic progenitor cells, and mesenchymal cells, differentiated from the same hPSC line. sTOs support T cell development, express key markers of negative selection, including the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) protein, and facilitate regulatory T cell development. sTOs provide the basis for functional patient-specific thymic organoid models, allowing for the study of human thymus function, T cell development, and transplant immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan A Ramos
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Lucas H Armitage
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - John J Morton
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Nathaniel Alzofon
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Diana Handler
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Geoffrey Kelly
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Dirk Homann
- Diabetes, Metabolism and Obesity Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Antonio Jimeno
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Charles C. Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Holger A Russ
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Charles C. Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Diabetes Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Department of Pathology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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12
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Bosticardo M, Notarangelo LD. Human thymus in health and disease: Recent advances in diagnosis and biology. Semin Immunol 2023; 66:101732. [PMID: 36863139 PMCID: PMC10134747 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is the crucial tissue where thymocytes develop from hematopoietic precursors that originate from the bone marrow and differentiate to generate a repertoire of mature T cells able to respond to foreign antigens while remaining tolerant to self-antigens. Until recently, most of the knowledge on thymus biology and its cellular and molecular complexity have been obtained through studies in animal models, because of the difficulty to gain access to thymic tissue in humans and the lack of in vitro models able to faithfully recapitulate the thymic microenvironment. This review focuses on recent advances in the understanding of human thymus biology in health and disease obtained through the use of innovative experimental techniques (eg. single cell RNA sequencing, scRNAseq), diagnostic tools (eg. next generation sequencing), and in vitro models of T-cell differentiation (artificial thymic organoids) and thymus development (eg. thymic epithelial cell differentiation from embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marita Bosticardo
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Luigi D Notarangelo
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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13
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He Y, Kim IK, Bian J, Polyzos A, Di Giammartino DC, Zhang YW, Luo J, Hernandez MO, Kedei N, Cam M, Borczuk AC, Lee T, Han Y, Conner EA, Wong M, Tillo DC, Umemura S, Chen V, Ruan L, White JB, Miranda IC, Awasthi PP, Altorki NK, Divakar P, Elemento O, Apostolou E, Giaccone G. A Knock-In Mouse Model of Thymoma With the GTF2I L424H Mutation. J Thorac Oncol 2022; 17:1375-1386. [PMID: 36049655 PMCID: PMC9691559 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2022.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The pathogenesis of thymic epithelial tumors remains largely unknown. We previously identified GTF2I L424H as the most frequently recurrent mutation in thymic epithelial tumors. Nevertheless, the precise role of this mutation in tumorigenesis of thymic epithelial cells is unclear. METHODS To investigate the role of GTF2I L424H mutation in thymic epithelial cells in vivo, we generated and characterized a mouse model in which the Gtf2i L424H mutation was conditionally knocked-in in the Foxn1+ thymic epithelial cells. Digital spatial profiling was performed on thymomas and normal thymic tissues with GeoMx-mouse whole transcriptome atlas. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed using both mouse tissues and human thymic epithelial tumors. RESULTS We observed that the Gtf2i mutation impairs development of the thymic medulla and maturation of medullary thymic epithelial cells in young mice and causes tumor formation in the thymus of aged mice. Cell cycle-related pathways, such as E2F targets and MYC targets, are enriched in the tumor epithelial cells. Results of gene set variation assay analysis revealed that gene signatures of cortical thymic epithelial cells and thymic epithelial progenitor cells are also enriched in the thymomas of the knock-in mice, which mirrors the human counterparts in The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Immunohistochemistry results revealed similar expression pattern of epithelial cell markers between mouse and human thymomas. CONCLUSIONS We have developed and characterized a novel thymoma mouse model. This study improves knowledge of the molecular drivers in thymic epithelial cells and provides a tool for further study of the biology of thymic epithelial tumors and for development of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfeng He
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - In-Kyu Kim
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Jing Bian
- CCR Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alexander Polyzos
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | | | - Yu-Wen Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia; New address: Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Ji Luo
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Maria O Hernandez
- Collaborative Protein Technology Resource, Office of Science and Technology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Noemi Kedei
- Collaborative Protein Technology Resource, Office of Science and Technology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Maggie Cam
- CCR Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alain C Borczuk
- Department of Pathology, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; New address: Department of Pathology, Northwell Health, Greenvale, New York
| | - Trevor Lee
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Yumin Han
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | | | - Madeline Wong
- CCR Genomics Core, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Desiree C Tillo
- CCR Genomics Core, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Shigeki Umemura
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Vincent Chen
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Lydia Ruan
- CCR Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jessica B White
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Ileana C Miranda
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Parirokh P Awasthi
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Laboratory Animal Sciences, Mouse Modeling & Cryopreservation, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Nasser K Altorki
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York
| | | | - Olivier Elemento
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Effie Apostolou
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Giuseppe Giaccone
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia.
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14
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Leavens KF, Alvarez-Dominguez JR, Vo LT, Russ HA, Parent AV. Stem cell-based multi-tissue platforms to model human autoimmune diabetes. Mol Metab 2022; 66:101610. [PMID: 36209784 PMCID: PMC9587366 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2022.101610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease in which pancreatic insulin-producing β cells are specifically destroyed by the immune system. Understanding the initiation and progression of human T1D has been hampered by the lack of appropriate models that can reproduce the complexity and heterogeneity of the disease. The development of platforms combining multiple human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) derived tissues to model distinct aspects of T1D has the potential to provide critical novel insights into the etiology and pathogenesis of the human disease. SCOPE OF REVIEW In this review, we summarize the state of hPSC differentiation approaches to generate cell types and tissues relevant to T1D, with a particular focus on pancreatic islet cells, T cells, and thymic epithelium. We present current applications as well as limitations of using these hPSC-derived cells for disease modeling and discuss efforts to optimize platforms combining multiple cell types to model human T1D. Finally, we outline remaining challenges and emphasize future improvements needed to accelerate progress in this emerging field of research. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Recent advances in reprogramming approaches to create patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell lines (iPSCs), genome engineering technologies to efficiently modify DNA of hPSCs, and protocols to direct their differentiation into mature cell types have empowered the use of stem cell derivatives to accurately model human disease. While challenges remain before complex interactions occurring in human T1D can be modeled with these derivatives, experiments combining hPSC-derived β cells and immune cells are already providing exciting insight into how these cells interact in the context of T1D, supporting the viability of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla F Leavens
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania and Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Juan R Alvarez-Dominguez
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Linda T Vo
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Holger A Russ
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Audrey V Parent
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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15
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De novo construction of T cell compartment in humanized mice engrafted with iPSC-derived thymus organoids. Nat Methods 2022; 19:1306-1319. [PMID: 36064772 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-022-01583-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Hematopoietic humanized (hu) mice are powerful tools for modeling the action of human immune system and are widely used for preclinical studies and drug discovery. However, generating a functional human T cell compartment in hu mice remains challenging, primarily due to the species-related differences between human and mouse thymus. While engrafting human fetal thymic tissues can support robust T cell development in hu mice, tissue scarcity and ethical concerns limit their wide use. Here, we describe the tissue engineering of human thymus organoids from inducible pluripotent stem cells (iPSC-thymus) that can support the de novo generation of a diverse population of functional human T cells. T cells of iPSC-thymus-engrafted hu mice could mediate both cellular and humoral immune responses, including mounting robust proinflammatory responses on T cell receptor engagement, inhibiting allogeneic tumor graft growth and facilitating efficient Ig class switching. Our findings indicate that hu mice engrafted with iPSC-thymus can serve as a new animal model to study human T cell-mediated immunity and accelerate the translation of findings from animal studies into the clinic.
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16
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Provin N, Giraud M. Differentiation of Pluripotent Stem Cells Into Thymic Epithelial Cells and Generation of Thymic Organoids: Applications for Therapeutic Strategies Against APECED. Front Immunol 2022; 13:930963. [PMID: 35844523 PMCID: PMC9277542 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.930963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ essential for the induction of central immune tolerance. Maturing T cells undergo several steps of expansion and selection mediated by thymic epithelial cells (TECs). In APECED and other congenital pathologies, a deficiency in genes that regulate TEC development or their ability to select non auto-reactive thymocytes results in a defective immune balance, and consequently in a general autoimmune syndrome. Restoration of thymic function is thus crucial for the emergence of curative treatments. The last decade has seen remarkable progress in both gene editing and pluripotent stem cell differentiation, with the emergence of CRISPR-based gene correction, the trivialization of reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSc) and their subsequent differentiation into multiple cellular fates. The combination of these two approaches has paved the way to the generation of genetically corrected thymic organoids and their use to control thymic genetic pathologies affecting self-tolerance. Here we review the recent advances in differentiation of iPSc into TECs and the ability of the latter to support a proper and efficient maturation of thymocytes into functional and non-autoreactive T cells. A special focus is given on thymus organogenesis and pathway modulation during iPSc differentiation, on the impact of the 2/3D structure on the generated TECs, and on perspectives for therapeutic strategies in APECED based on patient-derived iPSc corrected for AIRE gene mutations.
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17
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Nusser A, Sagar, Swann JB, Krauth B, Diekhoff D, Calderon L, Happe C, Grün D, Boehm T. Developmental dynamics of two bipotent thymic epithelial progenitor types. Nature 2022; 606:165-171. [PMID: 35614226 PMCID: PMC9159946 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04752-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
T cell development in the thymus is essential for cellular immunity and depends on the organotypic thymic epithelial microenvironment. In comparison with other organs, the size and cellular composition of the thymus are unusually dynamic, as exemplified by rapid growth and high T cell output during early stages of development, followed by a gradual loss of functional thymic epithelial cells and diminished naive T cell production with age1-10. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has uncovered an unexpected heterogeneity of cell types in the thymic epithelium of young and aged adult mice11-18; however, the identities and developmental dynamics of putative pre- and postnatal epithelial progenitors have remained unresolved1,12,16,17,19-27. Here we combine scRNA-seq and a new CRISPR-Cas9-based cellular barcoding system in mice to determine qualitative and quantitative changes in the thymic epithelium over time. This dual approach enabled us to identify two principal progenitor populations: an early bipotent progenitor type biased towards cortical epithelium and a postnatal bipotent progenitor population biased towards medullary epithelium. We further demonstrate that continuous autocrine provision of Fgf7 leads to sustained expansion of thymic microenvironments without exhausting the epithelial progenitor pools, suggesting a strategy to modulate the extent of thymopoietic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Nusser
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sagar
- Quantitative Single Cell Biology Group, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jeremy B Swann
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Brigitte Krauth
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dagmar Diekhoff
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lesly Calderon
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christiane Happe
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominic Grün
- Quantitative Single Cell Biology Group, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany.
- Würzburg Institute of Systems Immunology, Max Planck Research Group at the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-Based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Boehm
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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18
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Sun S, Li JY, Nim HT, Piers A, Ramialison M, Porrello ER, Konstantinov IE, Elefanty AG, Stanley EG. CD90 Marks a Mesenchymal Program in Human Thymic Epithelial Cells In Vitro and In Vivo. Front Immunol 2022; 13:846281. [PMID: 35371075 PMCID: PMC8966383 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.846281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymic epithelium is critical for the structural integrity of the thymus and for T cell development. Within the fully formed thymus, large numbers of hematopoietic cells shape the thymic epithelium into a scaffold-like structure which bears little similarity to classical epithelial layers, such as those observed in the skin, intestine or pancreas. Here, we show that human thymic epithelial cells (TECs) possess an epithelial identity that also incorporates the expression of mesenchymal cell associated genes, whose expression levels vary between medullary and cortical TECs (m/cTECs). Using pluripotent stem cell (PSC) differentiation systems, we identified a unique population of cells that co-expressed the master TEC transcription factor FOXN1, as well as the epithelial associated marker EPCAM and the mesenchymal associated gene CD90. Using the same serum free culture conditions, we also observed co-expression of EPCAM and CD90 on cultured TECs derived from neonatal human thymus in vitro. Single cell RNA-sequencing revealed these cultured TECs possessed an immature mTEC phenotype and expressed epithelial and mesenchymal associated genes, such as EPCAM, CLDN4, CD90 and COL1A1. Importantly, flow cytometry and single cell RNA-sequencing analysis further confirmed the presence of an EPCAM+CD90+ population in the CD45- fraction of neonatal human thymic stromal cells in vivo. Using the human thymus cell atlas, we found that cTECs displayed more pronounced mesenchymal characteristics than mTECs during embryonic development. Collectively, these results suggest human TECs possess a hybrid gene expression program comprising both epithelial and mesenchymal elements, and provide a basis for the further exploration of thymus development from primary tissues and from the in vitro differentiation of PSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shicheng Sun
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jacky Y Li
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Hieu T Nim
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute and Systems Biology Institute Australia, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Adam Piers
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne Centre for Cardiovascular Genomics and Regenerative Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mirana Ramialison
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute and Systems Biology Institute Australia, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Enzo R Porrello
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne Centre for Cardiovascular Genomics and Regenerative Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Igor E Konstantinov
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute and Systems Biology Institute Australia, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Cardiac Surgery, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew G Elefanty
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Edouard G Stanley
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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19
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Hester AK, Semwal MK, Cepeda S, Xiao Y, Rueda M, Wimberly K, Venables T, Dileepan T, Kraig E, Griffith AV. Redox regulation of age-associated defects in generation and maintenance of T cell self-tolerance and immunity to foreign antigens. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110363. [PMID: 35172147 PMCID: PMC8898380 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymic atrophy reduces naive T cell production and contributes to increased susceptibility to viral infection with age. Expression of tissue-restricted antigen (TRA) genes also declines with age and has been thought to increase autoimmune disease susceptibility. We find that diminished expression of a model TRA gene in aged thymic stromal cells correlates with impaired clonal deletion of cognate T cells recognizing an autoantigen involved in atherosclerosis. Clonal deletion in the polyclonal thymocyte population is also perturbed. Distinct age-associated defects in the generation of antigen-specific T cells include a conspicuous decline in generation of T cells recognizing an immunodominant influenza epitope. Increased catalase activity delays thymic atrophy, and here, we show that it mitigates declining production of influenza-specific T cells and their frequency in lung after infection, but does not reverse declines in TRA expression or efficient negative selection. These results reveal important considerations for strategies to restore thymic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison K Hester
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Manpreet K Semwal
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Sergio Cepeda
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Yangming Xiao
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Meghan Rueda
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Kymberly Wimberly
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | | | - Thamotharampillai Dileepan
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Ellen Kraig
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Ann V Griffith
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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20
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Khosravi-Maharlooei M, Madley R, Borsotti C, Ferreira LMR, Sharp RC, Brehm MA, Greiner DL, Parent AV, Anderson MS, Sykes M, Creusot RJ. Modeling human T1D-associated autoimmune processes. Mol Metab 2022; 56:101417. [PMID: 34902607 PMCID: PMC8739876 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by impaired immune tolerance to β-cell antigens and progressive destruction of insulin-producing β-cells. Animal models have provided valuable insights for understanding the etiology and pathogenesis of this disease, but they fall short of reflecting the extensive heterogeneity of the disease in humans, which is contributed by various combinations of risk gene alleles and unique environmental factors. Collectively, these factors have been used to define subgroups of patients, termed endotypes, with distinct predominating disease characteristics. SCOPE OF REVIEW Here, we review the gaps filled by these models in understanding the intricate involvement and regulation of the immune system in human T1D pathogenesis. We describe the various models developed so far and the scientific questions that have been addressed using them. Finally, we discuss the limitations of these models, primarily ascribed to hosting a human immune system (HIS) in a xenogeneic recipient, and what remains to be done to improve their physiological relevance. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS To understand the role of genetic and environmental factors or evaluate immune-modifying therapies in humans, it is critical to develop and apply models in which human cells can be manipulated and their functions studied under conditions that recapitulate as closely as possible the physiological conditions of the human body. While microphysiological systems and living tissue slices provide some of these conditions, HIS mice enable more extensive analyses using in vivo systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Khosravi-Maharlooei
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel Madley
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chiara Borsotti
- Department of Health Sciences, Histology laboratory, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Leonardo M R Ferreira
- Departments of Microbiology & Immunology, and Regenerative Medicine & Cell Biology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Robert C Sharp
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Michael A Brehm
- Program in Molecular Medicine, Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Dale L Greiner
- Program in Molecular Medicine, Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Audrey V Parent
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mark S Anderson
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Megan Sykes
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Remi J Creusot
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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21
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Ramos SA, Morton JJ, Yadav P, Reed B, Alizadeh SI, Shilleh AH, Perrenoud L, Jaggers J, Kappler J, Jimeno A, Russ HA. Generation of functional human thymic cells from induced pluripotent stem cells. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2022; 149:767-781.e6. [PMID: 34331993 PMCID: PMC8815270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The thymus is a glandular organ that is essential for the formation of the adaptive immune system by educating developing T cells. The thymus is most active during childhood and involutes around the time of adolescence, resulting in a severe reduction or absence of naive T-cell output. The ability to generate a patient-derived human thymus would provide an attractive research platform and enable the development of novel cell therapies. OBJECTIVES This study sought to systematically evaluate signaling pathways to develop a refined direct differentiation protocol that generates patient-derived thymic epithelial progenitor cells from multiple induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that can further differentiate into functional patient-derived thymic epithelial cells on transplantation into athymic nude mice. METHODS Directed differentiation of iPSC generated TEPs that were transplanted into nude mice. Between 14 and 19 weeks posttransplantation, grafts were removed and analyzed by flow cytometry, quantitative PCR, bulk RNA sequencing, and single-cell RNA sequencing for markers of thymic-cell and T-cell development. RESULTS A direct differentiation protocol that allows the generation of patient-derived thymic epithelial progenitor cells from multiple iPSC lines is described. On transplantation into athymic nude mice, patient-derived thymic epithelial progenitor cells further differentiate into functional patient-derived thymic epithelial cells that can facilitate the development of T cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of iPSC-derived grafts shows characteristic thymic subpopulations and patient-derived thymic epithelial cell populations that are indistinguishable from TECs present in primary neonatal thymus tissue. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide important insights and resources for researchers focusing on human thymus biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan A. Ramos
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - John J. Morton
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Prabha Yadav
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Brendan Reed
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA,Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Sheila I. Alizadeh
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Ali H. Shilleh
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Loni Perrenoud
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - James Jaggers
- Surgery- Cardiothoracic department, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - John Kappler
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA,Department of Biomedical Research, National Jewish Health, Denver CO 80206
| | - Antonio Jimeno
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA,Charles C. Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA,Correspondence to: Holger A. Russ, PhD, Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 1775 Aurora Court, M20-4202G, Aurora, CO. 80045, Office: +1 303 724 8544, Cell: +1 415 933 9952, Lab phone: +1 303 724 0192, ; Antonio Jimeno, MD, PhD, University of Colorado Cancer Center & Charles C. Gates Center of Stem Cell Biology, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Avenue, RC1S L18-8111, Aurora, CO 80045, Office: +1 303 724 2478, Lab phone: +1 303 724 6614,
| | - Holger A. Russ
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA,Charles C. Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA,Correspondence to: Holger A. Russ, PhD, Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 1775 Aurora Court, M20-4202G, Aurora, CO. 80045, Office: +1 303 724 8544, Cell: +1 415 933 9952, Lab phone: +1 303 724 0192, ; Antonio Jimeno, MD, PhD, University of Colorado Cancer Center & Charles C. Gates Center of Stem Cell Biology, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Avenue, RC1S L18-8111, Aurora, CO 80045, Office: +1 303 724 2478, Lab phone: +1 303 724 6614,
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22
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Gras-Peña R, Danzl NM, Khosravi-Maharlooei M, Campbell SR, Ruiz AE, Parks CA, Suen Savage WM, Holzl MA, Chatterjee D, Sykes M. Human stem cell-derived thymic epithelial cells enhance human T-cell development in a xenogeneic thymus. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 149:1755-1771. [PMID: 34695489 PMCID: PMC9023620 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generation of thymic tissue from pluripotent stem cells would provide therapies for acquired and congenital thymic insufficiency states. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to generate human thymic epithelial progenitors from human embryonic stem cells (hES-TEPs) and to assess their thymopoietic function in vivo. METHODS This study differentiated hES-TEPs by mimicking developmental queues with FGF8, retinoic acid, SHH, Noggin, and BMP4. Their function was assessed in reaggregate cellular grafts under the kidney capsule and in hybrid thymi by incorporating them into swine thymus (SwTHY) grafts implanted under the kidney capsules of immunodeficient mice that received human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (hHSPCs) intravenously. RESULTS Cultured hES-TEPs expressed FOXN1 and formed colonies expressing EPCAM and both cortical and medullary thymic epithelial cell markers. In thymectomized immunodeficient mice receiving hHSPCs, hES-TEPs mixed with human thymic mesenchymal cells supported human T-cell development. Hypothesizing that support from non-epithelial thymic cells might allow long-term function of hES-TEPs, the investigators injected them into SwTHY tissue, which supports human thymopoiesis in NOD severe combined immunodeficiency IL2Rγnull mice receiving hHSPCs. hES-TEPs integrated into SwTHY grafts, enhanced human thymopoiesis, and increased peripheral CD4+ naive T-cell reconstitution. CONCLUSIONS This study has developed and demonstrated in vivo thymopoietic function of hES-TEPs generated with a novel differentiation protocol. The SwTHY hybrid thymus model demonstrates beneficial effects on human thymocyte development of hES-TEPs maturing in the context of a supportive thymic structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Gras-Peña
- Columbia Center for Human Development, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY; Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY.
| | - Nichole M Danzl
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Mohsen Khosravi-Maharlooei
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Sean R Campbell
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Amanda E Ruiz
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Christopher A Parks
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - William Meng Suen Savage
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Markus A Holzl
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Debanjana Chatterjee
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Megan Sykes
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY; Department of Surgery and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University, New York, NY.
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23
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Silva CS, Reis RL, Martins A, Neves NM. Recapitulation of Thymic Function by Tissue Engineering Strategies. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2100773. [PMID: 34197034 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202100773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The thymus is responsible for the development and selection of T lymphocytes, which in turn also participate in the maturation of thymic epithelial cells. These events occur through the close interactions between hematopoietic stem cells and developing thymocytes with the thymic stromal cells within an intricate 3D network. The complex thymic microenvironment and function, and the current therapies to induce thymic regeneration or to overcome the lack of a functional thymus are herein reviewed. The recapitulation of the thymic function using tissue engineering strategies has been explored as a way to control the body's tolerance to external grafts and to generate ex vivo T cells for transplantation. In this review, the main advances in the thymus tissue engineering field are disclosed, including both scaffold- and cell-based strategies. In light of the current gaps and limitations of the developed systems, the design of novel biomaterials for this purpose with unique features is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina S. Silva
- 3B's Research Group I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory AvePark, Parque da Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra 4805‐017 Barco Guimarães Portugal
| | - Rui L. Reis
- 3B's Research Group I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory AvePark, Parque da Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra 4805‐017 Barco Guimarães Portugal
| | - Albino Martins
- 3B's Research Group I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory AvePark, Parque da Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra 4805‐017 Barco Guimarães Portugal
| | - Nuno M. Neves
- 3B's Research Group I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory AvePark, Parque da Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra 4805‐017 Barco Guimarães Portugal
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24
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Peterson P, Kisand K, Kluger N, Ranki A. Loss of AIRE-Mediated Immune Tolerance and the Skin. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 142:760-767. [PMID: 34535292 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The core function of the immune response is to distinguish between self and foreign. The multiorgan human autoimmune disease, autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED/autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1) is an example of what happens in the body when central immune tolerance goes astray. APECED revealed the existence and function of the autoimmune regulator gene, which has a central role in the development of tolerance. The discovery of autoimmune regulator was the start of a new period in immunology and in understanding the role of central and peripheral tolerance, also very relevant to many skin diseases as we highlight in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pärt Peterson
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kai Kisand
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Nicolas Kluger
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venereology, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, and Inflammation Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Annamari Ranki
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venereology, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, and Inflammation Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
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25
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Sharma H, Moroni L. Recent Advancements in Regenerative Approaches for Thymus Rejuvenation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2100543. [PMID: 34306981 PMCID: PMC8292900 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202100543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The thymus plays a key role in adaptive immunity by generating a diverse population of T cells that defend the body against pathogens. Various factors from disease and toxic insults contribute to the degeneration of the thymus resulting in a fewer output of T cells. Consequently, the body is prone to a wide host of diseases and infections. In this review, first, the relevance of the thymus is discussed, followed by thymic embryological organogenesis and anatomy as well as the development and functionality of T cells. Attempts to regenerate the thymus include in vitro methods, such as forming thymic organoids aided by biofabrication techniques that are transplantable. Ex vivo methods that have shown promise in enhancing thymic regeneration are also discussed. Current regenerative technologies have not yet matched the complexity and functionality of the thymus. Therefore, emerging techniques that have shown promise and the challenges that lie ahead are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himal Sharma
- MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Complex Tissue RegenerationMaastricht UniversityMaastricht6229 ERNetherlands
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Complex Tissue RegenerationMaastricht UniversityMaastricht6229 ERNetherlands
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26
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Hermsen J, Brown ME. Humanized Mouse Models for Evaluation of PSC Immunogenicity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 54:e113. [PMID: 32588980 DOI: 10.1002/cpsc.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
New human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived therapies are advancing to clinical trials at an increasingly rapid pace. In addition to ensuring that the therapies function properly, there is a critical need to investigate the human immune response to these cell products. A robust allogeneic (or autologous) immune response could swiftly eliminate an otherwise promising cell therapy, even in immunosuppressed patients. In coming years, researchers in the regenerative medicine field will need to utilize a number of in vitro and in vivo assays and models to evaluate and better understand hPSC immunogenicity. Humanized mouse models-mice engrafted with functional human immune cell types-are an important research tool for investigating the mechanisms of the adaptive immune response to hPSC therapies. This article provides an overview of humanized mouse models relevant to the study of hPSC immunogenicity and explores central considerations for investigators seeking to utilize these powerful models in their research. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Hermsen
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Western Clinical Campus, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Matthew E Brown
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Western Clinical Campus, Madison, Wisconsin
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27
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Liu H, Li R, Liao HK, Min Z, Wang C, Yu Y, Shi L, Dan J, Hayek A, Martinez Martinez L, Nuñez Delicado E, Izpisua Belmonte JC. Chemical combinations potentiate human pluripotent stem cell-derived 3D pancreatic progenitor clusters toward functional β cells. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3330. [PMID: 34099664 PMCID: PMC8184986 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23525-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived pancreatic β cells are an attractive cell source for treating diabetes. However, current derivation methods remain inefficient, heterogeneous, and cell line dependent. To address these issues, we first devised a strategy to efficiently cluster hPSC-derived pancreatic progenitors into 3D structures. Through a systematic study, we discovered 10 chemicals that not only retain the pancreatic progenitors in 3D clusters but also enhance their potentiality towards NKX6.1+/INS+ β cells. We further systematically screened signaling pathway modulators in the three steps from pancreatic progenitors toward β cells. The implementation of all these strategies and chemical combinations resulted in generating β cells from different sources of hPSCs with high efficiency. The derived β cells are functional and can reverse hyperglycemia in mice within two weeks. Our protocol provides a robust platform for studying human β cells and developing hPSC-derived β cells for cell replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haisong Liu
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Ronghui Li
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Hsin-Kai Liao
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Zheying Min
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Yang Yu
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jiameng Dan
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Alberto Hayek
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSD-Medical School, La Jolla, California, USA
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28
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Kreins AY, Bonfanti P, Davies EG. Current and Future Therapeutic Approaches for Thymic Stromal Cell Defects. Front Immunol 2021; 12:655354. [PMID: 33815417 PMCID: PMC8012524 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.655354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inborn errors of thymic stromal cell development and function lead to impaired T-cell development resulting in a susceptibility to opportunistic infections and autoimmunity. In their most severe form, congenital athymia, these disorders are life-threatening if left untreated. Athymia is rare and is typically associated with complete DiGeorge syndrome, which has multiple genetic and environmental etiologies. It is also found in rare cases of T-cell lymphopenia due to Nude SCID and Otofaciocervical Syndrome type 2, or in the context of genetically undefined defects. This group of disorders cannot be corrected by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, but upon timely recognition as thymic defects, can successfully be treated by thymus transplantation using cultured postnatal thymic tissue with the generation of naïve T-cells showing a diverse repertoire. Mortality after this treatment usually occurs before immune reconstitution and is mainly associated with infections most often acquired pre-transplantation. In this review, we will discuss the current approaches to the diagnosis and management of thymic stromal cell defects, in particular those resulting in athymia. We will discuss the impact of the expanding implementation of newborn screening for T-cell lymphopenia, in combination with next generation sequencing, as well as the role of novel diagnostic tools distinguishing between hematopoietic and thymic stromal cell defects in facilitating the early consideration for thymus transplantation of an increasing number of patients and disorders. Immune reconstitution after the current treatment is usually incomplete with relatively common inflammatory and autoimmune complications, emphasizing the importance for improving strategies for thymus replacement therapy by optimizing the current use of postnatal thymus tissue and developing new approaches using engineered thymus tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Y. Kreins
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Immunology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paola Bonfanti
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - E. Graham Davies
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Immunology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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29
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Granadier D, Iovino L, Kinsella S, Dudakov JA. Dynamics of thymus function and T cell receptor repertoire breadth in health and disease. Semin Immunopathol 2021; 43:119-134. [PMID: 33608819 PMCID: PMC7894242 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-021-00840-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
T cell recognition of unknown antigens relies on the tremendous diversity of the T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire; generation of which can only occur in the thymus. TCR repertoire breadth is thus critical for not only coordinating the adaptive response against pathogens but also for mounting a response against malignancies. However, thymic function is exquisitely sensitive to negative stimuli, which can come in the form of acute insult, such as that caused by stress, infection, or common cancer therapies; or chronic damage such as the progressive decline in thymic function with age. Whether it be prolonged T cell deficiency after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) or constriction in the breadth of the peripheral TCR repertoire with age; these insults result in poor adaptive immune responses. In this review, we will discuss the importance of thymic function for generation of the TCR repertoire and how acute and chronic thymic damage influences immune health. We will also discuss methods that are used to measure thymic function in patients and strategies that have been developed to boost thymic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Granadier
- Program in Immunology, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Immunotherapy Integrated Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lorenzo Iovino
- Program in Immunology, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Immunotherapy Integrated Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sinéad Kinsella
- Program in Immunology, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Immunotherapy Integrated Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jarrod A Dudakov
- Program in Immunology, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Immunotherapy Integrated Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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30
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Besnard M, Padonou F, Provin N, Giraud M, Guillonneau C. AIRE deficiency, from preclinical models to human APECED disease. Dis Model Mech 2021; 14:dmm046359. [PMID: 33729987 PMCID: PMC7875492 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.046359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy candidiasis ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) is a rare life-threatening autoimmune disease that attacks multiple organs and has its onset in childhood. It is an inherited condition caused by a variety of mutations in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene that encodes a protein whose function has been uncovered by the generation and study of Aire-KO mice. These provided invaluable insights into the link between AIRE expression in medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs), and the broad spectrum of self-antigens that these cells express and present to the developing thymocytes. However, these murine models poorly recapitulate all phenotypic aspects of human APECED. Unlike Aire-KO mice, the recently generated Aire-KO rat model presents visual features, organ lymphocytic infiltrations and production of autoantibodies that resemble those observed in APECED patients, making the rat model a main research asset. In addition, ex vivo models of AIRE-dependent self-antigen expression in primary mTECs have been successfully set up. Thymus organoids based on pluripotent stem cell-derived TECs from APECED patients are also emerging, and constitute a promising tool to engineer AIRE-corrected mTECs and restore the generation of regulatory T cells. Eventually, these new models will undoubtedly lead to main advances in the identification and assessment of specific and efficient new therapeutic strategies aiming to restore immunological tolerance in APECED patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Besnard
- Université de Nantes, Inserm, CNRS, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Francine Padonou
- Université de Nantes, Inserm, CNRS, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Nathan Provin
- Université de Nantes, Inserm, CNRS, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Matthieu Giraud
- Université de Nantes, Inserm, CNRS, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Carole Guillonneau
- Université de Nantes, Inserm, CNRS, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, F-44000 Nantes, France
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31
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Velardi E, Clave E, Arruda LCM, Benini F, Locatelli F, Toubert A. The role of the thymus in allogeneic bone marrow transplantation and the recovery of the peripheral T-cell compartment. Semin Immunopathol 2021; 43:101-117. [PMID: 33416938 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-020-00828-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
As the thymus represents the primary site of T-cell development, optimal thymic function is of paramount importance for the successful reconstitution of the adaptive immunity after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Thymus involutes as part of the aging process and several factors, including previous chemotherapy treatments, conditioning regimen used in preparation to the allograft, occurrence of graft-versus-host disease, and steroid therapy that impair the integrity of the thymus, thus affecting its role in supporting T-cell neogenesis. Although the pathways governing its regeneration are still poorly understood, the thymus has a remarkable capacity to recover its function after damage. Measurement of both recent thymic emigrants and T-cell receptor excision circles is valuable tools to assess thymic output and gain insights on its function. In this review, we will extensively discuss available data on factors regulating thymic function after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, as well as the strategies and therapeutic approaches under investigation to promote thymic reconstitution and accelerate immune recovery in transplanted patients, including the use of cytokines, sex-steroid ablation, precursor T-cells, and thymus bioengineering. Although none of them is routinely used in the clinic, these approaches have the potential to enhance thymic function and immune recovery, not only in patients given an allograft but also in other conditions characterized by immune deficiencies related to a defective function of the thymus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Velardi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146, Rome, Italy.
| | - Emmanuel Clave
- Université de Paris, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, EMiLy, Inserm U1160, F-75010, Paris, France
| | - Lucas C M Arruda
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Francesca Benini
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146, Rome, Italy.,Department of Maternal and Child Health, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Antoine Toubert
- Université de Paris, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, EMiLy, Inserm U1160, F-75010, Paris, France.,Laboratoire d'Immunologie et d'Histocompatibilité, AP-HP, Hopital Saint-Louis, F-75010, Paris, France
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32
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Campinoti S, Gjinovci A, Ragazzini R, Zanieri L, Ariza-McNaughton L, Catucci M, Boeing S, Park JE, Hutchinson JC, Muñoz-Ruiz M, Manti PG, Vozza G, Villa CE, Phylactopoulos DE, Maurer C, Testa G, Stauss HJ, Teichmann SA, Sebire NJ, Hayday AC, Bonnet D, Bonfanti P. Reconstitution of a functional human thymus by postnatal stromal progenitor cells and natural whole-organ scaffolds. Nat Commun 2020; 11:6372. [PMID: 33311516 PMCID: PMC7732825 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20082-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ, essential for T cell maturation and selection. There has been long-standing interest in processes underpinning thymus generation and the potential to manipulate it clinically, because alterations of thymus development or function can result in severe immunodeficiency and autoimmunity. Here, we identify epithelial-mesenchymal hybrid cells, capable of long-term expansion in vitro, and able to reconstitute an anatomic phenocopy of the native thymus, when combined with thymic interstitial cells and a natural decellularised extracellular matrix (ECM) obtained by whole thymus perfusion. This anatomical human thymus reconstruction is functional, as judged by its capacity to support mature T cell development in vivo after transplantation into humanised immunodeficient mice. These findings establish a basis for dissecting the cellular and molecular crosstalk between stroma, ECM and thymocytes, and offer practical prospects for treating congenital and acquired immunological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Campinoti
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Asllan Gjinovci
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Roberta Ragazzini
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Luca Zanieri
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Linda Ariza-McNaughton
- Haematopoietic Stem Cell laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Marco Catucci
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, DIBIT 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefan Boeing
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Jong-Eun Park
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - John C Hutchinson
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Miguel Muñoz-Ruiz
- Immunosurveillance laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Pierluigi G Manti
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Vozza
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo E Villa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Demetra-Ellie Phylactopoulos
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Constance Maurer
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Giuseppe Testa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Hans J Stauss
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Sarah A Teichmann
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Neil J Sebire
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Adrian C Hayday
- Immunosurveillance laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Peter Gorer Department of Immunobiology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Dominique Bonnet
- Haematopoietic Stem Cell laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Paola Bonfanti
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK.
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2PF, UK.
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33
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The contribution of thymic tolerance to central nervous system autoimmunity. Semin Immunopathol 2020; 43:135-157. [PMID: 33108502 PMCID: PMC7925481 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-020-00822-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) are associated with high levels of morbidity and economic cost. Research efforts have previously focused on the contribution of the peripheral adaptive and innate immune systems to CNS autoimmunity. However, a failure of thymic negative selection is a necessary step in CNS-reactive T cells escaping into the periphery. Even with defective thymic or peripheral tolerance, the development of CNS inflammation is rare. The reasons underlying this are currently poorly understood. In this review, we examine evidence implicating thymic selection in the pathogenesis of CNS autoimmunity. Animal models suggest that thymic negative selection is an important factor in determining susceptibility to and severity of CNS inflammation. There are indirect clinical data that suggest thymic function is also important in human CNS autoimmune diseases. Specifically, the association between thymoma and paraneoplastic encephalitis and changes in T cell receptor excision circles in multiple sclerosis implicate thymic tolerance in these diseases. We identify potential associations between CNS autoimmunity susceptibility factors and thymic tolerance. The therapeutic manipulation of thymopoiesis has the potential to open up new treatment modalities, but a better understanding of thymic tolerance in CNS autoimmunity is required before this can be realised.
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Sahu S, Sharan SK. Translating Embryogenesis to Generate Organoids: Novel Approaches to Personalized Medicine. iScience 2020; 23:101485. [PMID: 32864586 PMCID: PMC7441954 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The astounding capacity of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) to differentiate and self-organize has revolutionized the development of 3D cell culture models. The major advantage is its ability to mimic in vivo microenvironments and cellular interactions when compared with the classical 2D cell culture models. Recent innovations in generating embryo-like structures (including blastoids and gastruloids) from PSCs have advanced the experimental accessibility to understand embryogenesis with immense potential to model human development. Taking cues on how embryonic development leads to organogenesis, PSCs can also be directly differentiated to form mini-organs or organoids of a particular lineage. Organoids have opened new avenues to augment our understanding of stem cell and regenerative biology, tissue homeostasis, and disease mechanisms. In this review, we provide insights from developmental biology with a comprehensive resource of signaling pathways that in a coordinated manner form embryo-like structures and organoids. Moreover, the advent of assembloids and multilineage organoids from PSCs opens a new dimension to study paracrine function and multi-tissue interactions in vitro. Although this led to an avalanche of enthusiasm to utilize organoids for organ transplantation studies, we examine the current limitations and provide perspectives to improve reproducibility, scalability, functional complexity, and cell-type characterization. Taken together, these 3D in vitro organ-specific and patient-specific models hold great promise for drug discovery, clinical management, and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sounak Sahu
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Building 560, Room 32-04, 1050 Boyles Street, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Shyam K. Sharan
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Building 560, Room 32-33, 1050 Boyles Street, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
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35
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Tian H, Lyu Y, Yang YG, Hu Z. Humanized Rodent Models for Cancer Research. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1696. [PMID: 33042811 PMCID: PMC7518015 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As one of the most popular laboratory animal models, rodents have been playing crucial roles in mechanistic investigations of oncogenesis as well as anticancer drug or regimen discoveries. However, rodent tumors show different or no responses to therapies against human cancers, and thus, in recent years, increased attention has been given to mouse models with xenografted or spontaneous human cancer cells. By combining with the human immune system (HIS) mice, these models have become more sophisticated and robust, enabling in vivo exploration of human cancer immunology and immunotherapy. In this review, we summarize the pros and cons of these humanized mouse models, with a focus on their potential as an in vivo platform for human cancer research. We also discuss the strategies for further improving these models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Tian
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, China
| | - Yanan Lyu
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, China
| | - Yong-Guang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, China.,International Center of Future Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zheng Hu
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, China
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36
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Kinsella S, Dudakov JA. When the Damage Is Done: Injury and Repair in Thymus Function. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1745. [PMID: 32903477 PMCID: PMC7435010 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Even though the thymus is exquisitely sensitive to acute insults like infection, shock, or common cancer therapies such as cytoreductive chemo- or radiation-therapy, it also has a remarkable capacity for repair. This phenomenon of endogenous thymic regeneration has been known for longer even than its primary function to generate T cells, however, the underlying mechanisms controlling the process have been largely unstudied. Although there is likely continual thymic involution and regeneration in response to stress and infection in otherwise healthy people, acute and profound thymic damage such as that caused by common cancer cytoreductive therapies or the conditioning regimes as part of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), leads to prolonged T cell deficiency; precipitating high morbidity and mortality from opportunistic infections and may even facilitate cancer relapse. Furthermore, this capacity for regeneration declines with age as a function of thymic involution; which even at steady state leads to reduced capacity to respond to new pathogens, vaccines, and immunotherapy. Consequently, there is a real clinical need for strategies that can boost thymic function and enhance T cell immunity. One approach to the development of such therapies is to exploit the processes of endogenous thymic regeneration into novel pharmacologic strategies to boost T cell reconstitution in clinical settings of immune depletion such as HCT. In this review, we will highlight recent work that has revealed the mechanisms by which the thymus is capable of repairing itself and how this knowledge is being used to develop novel therapies to boost immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinéad Kinsella
- Program in Immunology, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jarrod A. Dudakov
- Program in Immunology, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
- Immunotherapy Integrated Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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37
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Otsuka R, Wada H, Murata T, Seino KI. Immune reaction and regulation in transplantation based on pluripotent stem cell technology. Inflamm Regen 2020; 40:12. [PMID: 32636970 PMCID: PMC7329400 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-020-00125-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-based technologies provides us a new therapeutic approach that generates grafts for transplantation. In order to minimize the risk of immune reaction, the banking of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from donors with homozygous human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotype is planned in Japan. Even though pre-stocked and safety validated HLA-homozygous iPSCs are selected, immunological rejection may potentially occur because the causes of rejection are not always due to HLA mismatches. A couple of studies concerning such immunological issues have reported that genetic ablation of HLA molecules from PSC combined with gene transduction of several immunoregulatory molecules may be effective in avoiding immunological rejection. Also, our research group has recently proposed a concept that attempts to regulate recipient immune system by PSC-derived immunoregulatory cells, which results in prolonged survival of the same PSC-derived allografts. PSC-based technologies enable us to choose a new therapeutic option; however, considering its safety from an immunological point of view should be of great importance for safe clinical translation of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Otsuka
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0815 Japan
| | - Haruka Wada
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0815 Japan
| | - Tomoki Murata
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0815 Japan
| | - Ken-Ichiro Seino
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0815 Japan
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38
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Abstract
Thymus regenerative therapy implementation is severely obstructed by the limited number and expansion capacity in vitro of tissue-specific thymic epithelial stem cells (TESC). Current solutions are mostly based on growth factors that can drive differentiation of pluripotent stem cells toward tissue-specific TESC. Target-specific small chemical compounds represent an alternative solution that could induce and support the clonal expansion of TESC and reversibly block their differentiation into mature cells. These compounds could be used both in the composition of culture media designed for TESC expansion in vitro, and in drugs development for thymic regeneration in vivo. It should allow reaching the ultimate objective - autologous thymic tissue regeneration in paediatric patients who had their thymus removed in the course of cardiac surgery.
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39
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Thomas R, Wang W, Su DM. Contributions of Age-Related Thymic Involution to Immunosenescence and Inflammaging. IMMUNITY & AGEING 2020; 17:2. [PMID: 31988649 PMCID: PMC6971920 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-020-0173-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Immune system aging is characterized by the paradox of immunosenescence (insufficiency) and inflammaging (over-reaction), which incorporate two sides of the same coin, resulting in immune disorder. Immunosenescence refers to disruption in the structural architecture of immune organs and dysfunction in immune responses, resulting from both aged innate and adaptive immunity. Inflammaging, described as a chronic, sterile, systemic inflammatory condition associated with advanced age, is mainly attributed to somatic cellular senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and age-related autoimmune predisposition. However, the inability to reduce senescent somatic cells (SSCs), because of immunosenescence, exacerbates inflammaging. Age-related adaptive immune system deviations, particularly altered T cell function, are derived from age-related thymic atrophy or involution, a hallmark of thymic aging. Recently, there have been major developments in understanding how age-related thymic involution contributes to inflammaging and immunosenescence at the cellular and molecular levels, including genetic and epigenetic regulation, as well as developments of many potential rejuvenation strategies. Herein, we discuss the research progress uncovering how age-related thymic involution contributes to immunosenescence and inflammaging, as well as their intersection. We also describe how T cell adaptive immunity mediates inflammaging and plays a crucial role in the progression of age-related neurological and cardiovascular diseases, as well as cancer. We then briefly outline the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of age-related thymic involution, and finally summarize potential rejuvenation strategies to restore aged thymic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Thomas
- Cell Biology, Immunology, and Microbiology Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Fort Worth, Texas 76107 USA
| | - Weikan Wang
- Cell Biology, Immunology, and Microbiology Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Fort Worth, Texas 76107 USA
| | - Dong-Ming Su
- 2Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76107 USA
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40
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Otsuka R, Wada H, Tsuji H, Sasaki A, Murata T, Itoh M, Baghdadi M, Seino KI. Efficient generation of thymic epithelium from induced pluripotent stem cells that prolongs allograft survival. Sci Rep 2020; 10:224. [PMID: 31937817 PMCID: PMC6959230 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57088-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus plays a significant role in establishing immunological self-tolerance. Previous studies have revealed that host immune reaction to allogeneic transplants could be regulated by thymus transplantation. However, physiological thymus involution hinders the clinical application of these insights. Here, we report an efficient generation of thymic epithelial-like tissue derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and its potential to regulate immune reaction in allogeneic transplantation. We established an iPSC line which constitutively expresses mouse Foxn1 gene and examined the effect of its expression during in vitro differentiation of thymic epithelial cells (TECs). We found that Foxn1 expression enhances the differentiation induction of cells expressing TEC-related cell surface molecules along with upregulation of endogenous Foxn1. iPSC-derived TECs (iPSC-TECs) generated T cells in nude recipient mice after renal subcapsular transplantation. Moreover, iPSC-TEC transplantation to immuno-competent recipients significantly prolonged the survival of allogeneic skin. Our study provides a novel concept for allogeneic transplantation in the setting of regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Otsuka
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan
| | - Haruka Wada
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan
| | - Hyuma Tsuji
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan
| | - Airi Sasaki
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan
| | - Tomoki Murata
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan
| | - Mizuho Itoh
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan
| | - Muhammad Baghdadi
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichiro Seino
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-15, Nishi-7, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan.
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41
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Abstract
Much of our knowledge regarding the interactions between epithelial tissues and the immune system has been gathered from animal models and co-cultures with cell lines. However, unique features of human cells cannot be modelled in mice, and cell lines are often transformed or genetically immortalized. Organoid technology has emerged as a powerful tool to maintain epithelial cells in a near-native state. In this Review, we discuss how organoids are being used in immunological research to understand the role of epithelial cell-immune cell interactions in tissue development and homeostasis, as well as in diseases such as cancer.
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42
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Modeling Leukemia with Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:cshperspect.a034868. [PMID: 31451537 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a034868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The reprogramming of human somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) a little over a decade ago raised exciting prospects to transform the study and potentially also the therapy of human diseases. iPSC models have now been created for a multitude of hematologic diseases, including malignancies. Here we discuss practical aspects of iPSC modeling of malignant diseases, review recent studies, and discuss the new opportunities that iPSC models offer, as well as their current limitations and prospects for future development.
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43
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Wang M, Yang Y, Han L, Xu F, Li F. Cell mechanical microenvironment for cell volume regulation. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:4070-4081. [PMID: 31637722 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Cell volume regulation, as one of the fundamental homeostasis of the cell, is associated with many cellular behaviors and functions. With the increased studies on the effect of environmental mechanical cues on cell volume regulation, the relationship between cell volume regulation and mechanotransduction becomes more and more clear. In this paper, we review the mechanisms and hypotheses by which cell maintains its volume homeostasis both in vivo and in constructed cell mechanical microenvironment (CMM) in vitro. We discuss how the growth-division regulation maintains the volume homeostasis of cells in the cell cycle and how the cell cortex/membrane tension mediates the effect of CMM (i.e., osmotic pressure, matrix stiffness, and mechanical force) on cell volume regulation. We also highlight the roles of cell volume as a perfect integrator of the downstream signals of mechanotransduction from different aspects of CMM and an effective indicator for the mechanical condition that cell confronts. This interdisciplinary perspective can provide new insight into biomechanics and may shed light on bioengineering and pathological research work. We hope this review can facilitate future studies on the investigation of the role of cell volume in mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yaowei Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lichun Han
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Anesthesia, Xi'an Daxing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Feng Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fei Li
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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44
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Abstract
The contributions of the peripheral adaptive and innate immune systems to CNS autoimmunity have been extensively studied. However, the role of thymic selection in these conditions is much less well understood. The thymus is the primary lymphoid organ for the generation of T cells; thymic mechanisms ensure that cells with an overt autoreactive specificity are eliminated before they emigrate to the periphery and control the generation of thymic regulatory T cells. Evidence from animal studies demonstrates that thymic T cell selection is important for establishing tolerance to autoantigens. However, there is a considerable knowledge gap regarding the role of thymic selection in autoimmune conditions of the human CNS. In this Review, we critically examine the current body of experimental evidence for the contribution of thymic tolerance to CNS autoimmune diseases. An understanding of why dysfunction of either thymic or peripheral tolerance mechanisms rarely leads to CNS inflammation is currently lacking. We examine the potential of de novo T cell formation and thymic selection as novel therapeutic avenues and highlight areas for future study that are likely to make these targets the focus of future treatments.
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45
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Abstract
The derivation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) over a decade ago sparked widespread enthusiasm for the development of new models of human disease, enhanced platforms for drug discovery and more widespread use of autologous cell-based therapy. Early studies using directed differentiation of iPSCs frequently uncovered cell-level phenotypes in monogenic diseases, but translation to tissue-level and organ-level diseases has required development of more complex, 3D, multicellular systems. Organoids and human-rodent chimaeras more accurately mirror the diverse cellular ecosystems of complex tissues and are being applied to iPSC disease models to recapitulate the pathobiology of a broad spectrum of human maladies, including infectious diseases, genetic disorders and cancer.
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46
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Luan R, Liang Z, Zhang Q, Sun L, Zhao Y. Molecular regulatory networks of thymic epithelial cell differentiation. Differentiation 2019; 107:42-49. [PMID: 31238242 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Functional mature T cells are generated in the thymus. Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) provide the essential microenvironment for T cell development and maturation. According to their function and localization, TECs are roughly divided into cortical TECs (cTECs) and medullary TECs (mTECs), which are responsible for positive and negative selection, respectively. This review summarizes the current understanding of TEC biology, the identification of fetal and adult bipotent TEC progenitors, and the signaling pathways that control the development and maturation of TECs. The understanding of the ontogeny, differentiation, maturation and function of cTECs lags behind that of mTECs. Better understanding TEC biology will provide clues about TEC development and the applications of thymus engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Luan
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhanfeng Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liguang Sun
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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47
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Bortolomai I, Sandri M, Draghici E, Fontana E, Campodoni E, Marcovecchio GE, Ferrua F, Perani L, Spinelli A, Canu T, Catucci M, Di Tomaso T, Sergi Sergi L, Esposito A, Lombardo A, Naldini L, Tampieri A, Hollander GA, Villa A, Bosticardo M. Gene Modification and Three-Dimensional Scaffolds as Novel Tools to Allow the Use of Postnatal Thymic Epithelial Cells for Thymus Regeneration Approaches. Stem Cells Transl Med 2019; 8:1107-1122. [PMID: 31140762 PMCID: PMC6766605 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.18-0218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Defective functionality of thymic epithelial cells (TECs), due to genetic mutations or injuring causes, results in altered T-cell development, leading to immunodeficiency or autoimmunity. These defects cannot be corrected by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and thymus transplantation has not yet been demonstrated to be fully curative. Here, we provide proof of principle of a novel approach toward thymic regeneration, involving the generation of thymic organoids obtained by seeding gene-modified postnatal murine TECs into three-dimensional (3D) collagen type I scaffolds mimicking the thymic ultrastructure. To this end, freshly isolated TECs were transduced with a lentiviral vector system, allowing for doxycycline-induced Oct4 expression. Transient Oct4 expression promoted TECs expansion without drastically changing the cell lineage identity of adult TECs, which retain the expression of important molecules for thymus functionality such as Foxn1, Dll4, Dll1, and AIRE. Oct4-expressing TECs (iOCT4 TEC) were able to grow into 3D collagen type I scaffolds both in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating that the collagen structure reproduced a 3D environment similar to the thymic extracellular matrix, perfectly recognized by TECs. In vivo results showed that thymic organoids transplanted subcutaneously in athymic nude mice were vascularized but failed to support thymopoiesis because of their limited in vivo persistence. These findings provide evidence that gene modification, in combination with the usage of 3D biomimetic scaffolds, may represent a novel approach allowing the use of postnatal TECs for thymic regeneration. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2019;8:1107-1122.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ileana Bortolomai
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,UOS Milano, IRGB CNR, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Sandri
- Laboratory of Bioceramics and Bio-Hybrid Composites, Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (ISTEC), National Research Council (CNR), Faenza, Italy
| | - Elena Draghici
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Fontana
- UOS Milano, IRGB CNR, Milan, Italy.,Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Campodoni
- Laboratory of Bioceramics and Bio-Hybrid Composites, Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (ISTEC), National Research Council (CNR), Faenza, Italy
| | - Genni Enza Marcovecchio
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Ferrua
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Paediatric Immunohematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Perani
- Preclinical Imaging Facility, Experimental Imaging Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonello Spinelli
- Preclinical Imaging Facility, Experimental Imaging Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Tamara Canu
- Preclinical Imaging Facility, Experimental Imaging Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Catucci
- Paediatric Immunology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tiziano Di Tomaso
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Sergi Sergi
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Esposito
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Preclinical Imaging Facility, Experimental Imaging Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Lombardo
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi Naldini
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Tampieri
- Laboratory of Bioceramics and Bio-Hybrid Composites, Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (ISTEC), National Research Council (CNR), Faenza, Italy
| | - Georg A Hollander
- Paediatric Immunology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Developmental Immunology, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Villa
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,UOS Milano, IRGB CNR, Milan, Italy
| | - Marita Bosticardo
- Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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48
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El-Kadiry AEH, Rafei M. Restoring thymic function: Then and now. Cytokine 2019; 120:202-209. [PMID: 31108430 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Thymic vulnerability, a leading cause of defective immunity, was discovered decades ago. To date, several strategies have been investigated to unveil any immunorestorative capacities they might confer. Studies exploiting castration, transplantation, adoptive cell therapies, hormones/growth factors, and cytokines have demonstrated enhanced in vitro and in vivo thymopoiesis, albeit with clinical restrictions. In this review, we will dissect the thymus on a physiological and pathological level and discuss the pros and cons of several strategies esteemed thymotrophic from a pre-clinical perspective. Finally, we will shed light on interleukin (IL)-21, a pharmacologically-promising cytokine with a significant thymotrophic nature, and elaborate on its potential clinical efficacy and safety in immune-deficient subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abed El-Hakim El-Kadiry
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Qc, Canada; Montreal Heart Institute, Montréal, Qc, Canada
| | - Moutih Rafei
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Qc, Canada; Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Qc, Canada; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, Qc, Canada.
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49
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Tracing the origin of adult intestinal stem cells. Nature 2019; 570:107-111. [PMID: 31092921 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1212-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Adult intestinal stem cells are located at the bottom of crypts of Lieberkühn, where they express markers such as LGR51,2 and fuel the constant replenishment of the intestinal epithelium1. Although fetal LGR5-expressing cells can give rise to adult intestinal stem cells3,4, it remains unclear whether this population in the patterned epithelium represents unique intestinal stem-cell precursors. Here we show, using unbiased quantitative lineage-tracing approaches, biophysical modelling and intestinal transplantation, that all cells of the mouse intestinal epithelium-irrespective of their location and pattern of LGR5 expression in the fetal gut tube-contribute actively to the adult intestinal stem cell pool. Using 3D imaging, we find that during fetal development the villus undergoes gross remodelling and fission. This brings epithelial cells from the non-proliferative villus into the proliferative intervillus region, which enables them to contribute to the adult stem-cell niche. Our results demonstrate that large-scale remodelling of the intestinal wall and cell-fate specification are closely linked. Moreover, these findings provide a direct link between the observed plasticity and cellular reprogramming of differentiating cells in adult tissues following damage5-9, revealing that stem-cell identity is an induced rather than a hardwired property.
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50
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Oguro H. Generation of Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 2048:245-257. [PMID: 31396942 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9728-2_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have the potential to provide a virtually unlimited supply of cells for transplantation therapy. When combined with recent advances in genome editing technologies, human PSCs could offer various approaches that enable gene therapy, drug discovery, disease modeling, and in vitro modeling of human development. De novo generation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from human PSCs is an important focus in the field, since it enables autologous HSC transplantation to treat many blood disorders and malignancies. Although culture conditions have been established to generate a broad spectrum of hematopoietic progenitors from human PSCs, it remains a significant challenge to generate bona fide HSCs that possess sustained self-renewal and multilineage differentiation capacities upon transplantation. In this review, recent promising advances in the efforts to generate HSCs and hematopoietic progenitors from human PSCs in vitro and in vivo or from somatic cells are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideyuki Oguro
- Cellular Engineering, The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
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