Dysregulated interferon-gamma responses during lethal cytomegalovirus brain infection of IL-10-deficient mice

T-cells and CD45-cells discovery in the central nervous system of healthy and nodavirus-infected teleost fish Dicentrarchus labrax

To achieve insights in antiviral immune defense of the central nervous system (CNS), we investigated T cells and CD45 cells in the marine fish model Dicentrarchus labrax infected with the CNS-tropic virus betanodavirus. By employing markers for pan-T cells (mAb DLT15) and CD45-cells (mAb DLT22) in immunofluorescence (IIF) of leukocytes from brain, we obtained 3,7 ± 2.3 % of T cells and 7.3 ± 3.2 % of CD45+ cells. Both IIF and immunoelectron microscopy confirmed a leukocyte/glial morphology for the immunoreactive cells. Quantitative immunohistochemistry (qIHC) of brain/eye sections showed 1.9 ± 0.8 % of T+ cells and 2 ± 0.9 % of CD45+ cells in the brain, and 3.6 ± 1.9 % and 4.1 ± 2.2 % in the eye, respectively. After in vivo RGNNV infection the number of T cells/CD45+ leukocytes in the brain increased to 8.3 ± 2.1 % and 11.6 ± 4.4 % (by IIF), and 26.1 ± 3.4 % and 45.6 ± 5.9 % (by qIHC), respectively. In the eye we counted after infection 8.5 ± 4.4 % of T cells and 10.2 ± 5.8 % of CD45 cells. Gene transcription analysis of brain mRNA revealed a strong increase of gene transcripts coding for: antiviral proteins Mx and ISG-12; T-cell related CD3ε/δ, TcRβ, CD4, CD8α, CD45; and for immuno-modulatory cytokines TNFα, IL-2, IL-10. A RAG-1 gene product was also present and upregulated, suggesting somatic recombination in the fish brain. Similar transcription data were obtained in the eye, albeit with differences. Our findings provide first evidence for a recruitment and involvement of T cells and CD45+ leukocytes in the fish eye-brain axis during antiviral responses and suggest similarities in the CNS immune defense across evolutionary distant vertebrates.

Sirtuin 5 is Dispensable for CD8+ T Cell Effector and Memory Differentiation

CD8⁺ T cell effector and memory differentiation is tightly controlled at multiple levels including transcriptional, metabolic, and epigenetic regulation. Sirtuin 5 (SIRT5) is a protein deacetylase mainly located at mitochondria, but it remains unclear whether SIRT5 plays key roles in regulating CD8⁺ T cell effector or memory formation. Herein, with adoptive transfer of Sirt5^+/+ or Sirt5^−/− OT-1 cells and acute Listeria monocytogenes infection model, we demonstrate that SIRT5 deficiency does not affect CD8⁺ T cell effector function and that SIRT5 is not required for CD8⁺ T cell memory formation. Moreover, the recall response of SIRT5 deficient memory CD8⁺ T cells is comparable with Sirt5^+/+ memory CD8⁺ T cells. Together, these observations suggest that SIRT5 is dispensable for the effector function and memory differentiation of CD8⁺ T cells.

Dysregulated Microglial Cell Activation and Proliferation Following Repeated Antigen Stimulation

Upon reactivation of quiescent neurotropic viruses antigen (Ag)-specific brain resident-memory CD8+ T-cells (bT_RM) may respond to de novo-produced viral Ag through the rapid release of IFN-γ, which drives subsequent interferon-stimulated gene expression in surrounding microglia. Through this mechanism, a small number of adaptive bT_RM may amplify responses to viral reactivation leading to an organ-wide innate protective state. Over time, this brain-wide innate immune activation likely has cumulative neurotoxic and neurocognitive consequences. We have previously shown that HIV-1 p24 Ag-specific bT_RM persist within the murine brain using a heterologous prime-CNS boost strategy. In response to Ag restimulation, these bT_RM display rapid and robust recall responses, which subsequently activate glial cells. In this study, we hypothesized that repeated challenges to viral antigen (Ag) (modeling repeated episodes of viral reactivation) culminate in prolonged reactive gliosis and exacerbated neurotoxicity. To address this question, mice were first immunized with adenovirus vectors expressing the HIV p24 capsid protein, followed by a CNS-boost using Pr55Gag/Env virus-like particles (HIV-VLPs). Following the establishment of the bT_RM population [>30 days (d)], prime-CNS boost animals were then subjected to in vivo challenge, as well as re-challenge (at 14 d post-challenge), using the immunodominant HIV-1 AI9 CD8+ T-cell epitope peptide. In these studies, Ag re-challenge resulted in prolonged expression of microglial activation markers and an increased proliferative response, longer than the challenge group. This continued expression of MHCII and PD-L1 (activation markers), as well as Ki67 (proliferative marker), was observed at 7, 14, and 30 days post-AI9 re-challenge. Additionally, in vivo re-challenge resulted in continued production of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) with elevated levels observed at 7, 14 and 30 days post re-challenge. Interestingly, iNOS expression was significantly lower among challenged animals when compared to re-challenged groups. Furthermore, in vivo specific Ag re-challenge produced lower levels of arginase (Arg)-1 when compared with the challenged group. Taken together, these results indicate that repeated Ag-specific stimulation of adaptive immune responses leads to cumulative dysregulated microglial cell activation.

Programmed death ligand-1 induction restrains the cytotoxic T lymphocyte response against microglia

Microglial cells are the main reservoir for HIV-1 within the brain and potential exists for negative immune checkpoint blockade therapies to purge this viral reservoir. Here, we investigated cytolytic responses of CD8⁺ T lymphocytes against microglia loaded with peptide epitopes. Initially, flow cytometric analysis demonstrated efficient killing of HIV-1 p24 AI9 or YI9 peptide-loaded splenocytes in MHC-matched recipients. Cytolytic killing of microglia was first demonstrated using ovalbumin (OVA) as a model antigen for in vitro cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) assays. Peptide-loaded primary microglia obtained from programmed death ligand (PD-L) 1 knockout (KO) animals showed significantly more killing than cells from wild-type (WT) animals when co-cultured with activated CD8⁺ T-cells isolated from rAd5-OVA primed animals. Moreover, when peptide loaded-microglial cells from WT animals were treated with neutralizing α-PD-L1 Ab, significantly more killing was observed compared to either untreated or IgG isotype-treated cells. Most importantly, significantly increased in vivo killing of HIV-1 p24 YI9 peptide-loaded microglia from PD-L1 KO animals, as well as AI9 peptide-loaded BALB/c microglial cells treated with α-PD-L1, was observed within brains of rAd5-p24 primed-CNS boosted C57BL/6 or BALB/c mice, respectively. Finally, ex vivo responses of brain CD8⁺ T-cells in response to AI9 stimulation showed significantly increased IFN-γ and IL-2 production when treated with α-PD-1 Abs. Greater proliferation of CD8+ T-cells from the brain was also observed following blockade. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that PD-L1 induction on microglia restrains CTL responses and indicate that immune checkpoint blockade targeting this pathway may be beneficial in clearing viral brain reservoirs.

Antiallodynic Effects of Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2R) Agonists on Retrovirus Infection-Induced Neuropathic Pain

The most common neurological complication in patients receiving successful combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is peripheral neuropathic pain. Data show that distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP) also develops along with murine acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (MAIDS) after infection with the LP-BM5 murine retrovirus mixture. Links between cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB₂R) and peripheral neuropathy have been established in animal models using nerve transection, chemotherapy-induced pain, and various other stimuli. Diverse types of neuropathic pain respond differently to standard drug intervention, and little is currently known regarding the effects of modulation through CB₂Rs. In this study, we evaluated whether treatment with the exogenous synthetic CB₂R agonists JWH015, JWH133, Gp1a, and HU308 controls neuropathic pain and neuroinflammation in animals with chronic retroviral infection. Hind-paw mechanical hypersensitivity in CB₂R agonist-treated versus untreated animals was assessed using the MouseMet electronic von Frey system. Multicolor flow cytometry was used to determine the effects of CB₂R agonists on macrophage activation and T-lymphocyte infiltration into dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and lumbar spinal cord (LSC). Results demonstrated that, following weekly intraperitoneal injections starting at 5 wk p.i., JWH015, JWH133, and Gp1a, but not HU308 (5 mg/kg), significantly ameliorated allodynia when assessed 2 h after ligand injection. However, these same agonists (2x/wk) did not display antiallodynic effects when mechanical sensitivity was assessed 24 h after ligand injection. Infection-induced macrophage activation and T-cell infiltration into the DRG and LSC were observed at 12 wk p.i., but this neuroinflammation was not affected by treatment with any CB₂R agonist. Activation of JAK/STAT3 has been shown to contribute to development of neuropathic pain in the LSC and pretreatment of primary murine microglia (2 h) with JWH015-, JWH133-, or Gp1a-blocked IFN-gamma-induced phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT3. Taken together, these data show that CB₂R agonists demonstrate acute, but not long-term, antiallodynic effects on retrovirus infection-induced neuropathic pain.

IL-10RA Mutation as a Risk Factor of Severe Influenza-Associated Encephalopathy: A Case Report

Influenza-associated encephalitis and encephalopathy (IAE) is a severe complication of influenza infection with high morbidity and mortality. We present the case of a patient with IL-10RA mutation who developed encephalopathy after influenza infection. A 10-day-old boy developed recurrent fever and anal fistula. Growth failure gradually became apparent. He had been treated with antibiotics and elemental nutrition. However, the patient did not respond to the treatments. At 11 months, he suddenly developed shock with encephalopathy and multiple organ failures. He was then diagnosed with IAE. A cytokine study revealed elevated levels of IL-1 receptor antagonist, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, eotaxin, G-CSF, MCP-1, and IL-10. These cytokines are normally downregulated by IL-10. Genetic testing revealed a IL-10RA mutation at the 3' end of exon 4 (c.537G→A). These findings might reflect an increased risk of severe IAE in patients with IL-10RA mutation.

Reactive glia promote development of CD103+ CD69+ CD8+ T-cells through programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)

INTRODUCTION

Previous work from our laboratory has demonstrated in vivo persistence of CD103⁺ CD69⁺ brain resident memory CD8⁺ T-cells (bT_RM ) following viral infection, and that the PD-1: PD-L1 pathway promotes development of these T_RM cells within the brain. Although glial cells express low basal levels of PD-L1, its expression is upregulated upon IFN-γ-treatment, and they have been shown to modulate antiviral T-cell effector responses through the PD-1: PD-L1 pathway.

METHODS

We performed flow cytometric analysis of cells from co-cultures of mixed glia and CD8⁺ T-cells obtained from wild type mice to investigate the role of glial cells in the development of bT_RM .

RESULTS

In this study, we show that interactions between reactive glia and anti-CD3 Ab-stimulated CD8⁺ T-cells promote development of CD103⁺ CD69⁺ CD8⁺ T-cells through engagement of the PD-1: PD-L1 pathway. These studies used co-cultures of primary murine glial cells obtained from WT animals along with CD8⁺ T-cells obtained from either WT or PD-1 KO mice. We found that αCD3 Ab-stimulated CD8⁺ T-cells from WT animals increased expression of CD103 and CD69 when co-cultured with primary murine glial cells. In contrast, significantly reduced expression of CD103 and CD69 was observed using CD8⁺ T-cells from PD-1 KO mice. We also observed that reactive glia promoted high levels of CD127, a marker of memory precursor effector cells (MPEC), on CD69⁺ CD8⁺ T-cells, which promotes development of T_RM cells. Interestingly, results obtained using T-cells from PD-1 KO animals showed significantly reduced expression of CD127 on CD69⁺ CD8⁺ cells. Additionally, blocking of glial PD-L1 resulted in decreased expression of CD103, along with reduced CD127 on CD69⁺ CD8⁺ T-cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these results demonstrate a role for activated glia in promoting development of bT_RM through the PD-1: PD-L1 pathway.

Nitrosative damage during retrovirus infection-induced neuropathic pain

BACKGROUND

Peripheral neuropathy is currently the most common neurological complication in HIV-infected individuals, occurring in 35-50% of patients undergoing combination anti-retroviral therapy. Data have shown that distal symmetric polyneuropathy develops in mice by 6 weeks following infection with the LP-BM5 retrovirus mixture. Previous work from our laboratory has demonstrated that glial cells modulate antiviral T-cell effector responses through the programmed death (PD)-1: PD-L1 pathway, thereby limiting the deleterious consequences of unrestrained neuroinflammation.

METHODS

Using the MouseMet electronic von Frey system, we assessed hind-paw mechanical hypersensitivity in LP-BM5-infected wild-type (WT) and PD-1 KO animals. Using multi-color flow cytometry, we quantitatively assessed cellular infiltration and microglial activation. Using real-time RT-PCR, we assessed viral load, expression of IFN-γ, iNOS, and MHC class II. Using western blotting, we measured protein nitrosylation within the lumbar spinal cord (LSC) and dorsal root ganglion (DRG). Histochemical staining was performed to analyze the presence of CD3, ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule (Iba)-1, MHCII, nitrotyrosine, isolectin B4 (IB4) binding, and neurofilament 200 (NF200). Statistical analyses were carried out using graphpad prism.

RESULTS

Hind-paw mechanical hypersensitivity observed in LP-BM5-infected animals was associated with significantly increased lymphocyte infiltration into the spinal cord and DRG. We also observed elevated expression of IFN-γ (in LSC and DRG) and MHC II (on resident microglia in LSC). We detected elevated levels of 3-nitrotyrosine within the LSC and DRG of LP-BM5-infected animals, an indicator of nitric oxide (NO)-induced protein damage. Moreover, we observed 3-nitrotyrosine in both small (IB4+) and large (NF200+) DRG sensory neurons. Additionally, infected PD-1 KO animals displayed significantly greater mechanical hypersensitivity than WT or uninfected mice at 4 weeks post-infection (p.i.). Accelerated onset of hind-paw hypersensitivity in PD-1 KO animals was associated with significantly increased infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, macrophages, and microglial activation at early time points. Importantly, we also observed elevated levels of 3-nitrotyrosine and iNOS in infected PD-1 KO animals when compared with WT animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Results reported here connect peripheral immune cell infiltration and reactive gliosis with nitrosative damage. These data may help elucidate how retroviral infection-induced neuroinflammatory networks contribute to nerve damage and neuropathic pain.

The PD-1: PD-L1 pathway promotes development of brain-resident memory T cells following acute viral encephalitis

Background

Previous work from our laboratory has demonstrated that during acute viral brain infection, glial cells modulate antiviral T cell effector responses through the PD-1: PD-L1 pathway, thereby limiting the deleterious consequences of unrestrained neuroinflammation. Here, we evaluated the PD-1: PD-L1 pathway in development of brain-resident memory T cells (bT_RM) following murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection.

Methods

Flow cytometric analysis of immune cells was performed at 7, 14, and 30 days post-infection (dpi) to assess the shift of brain-infiltrating CD8⁺ T cell populations from short-lived effector cells (SLEC) to memory precursor effector cells (MPEC), as well as generation of bT_RMs.

Results

In wild-type (WT) animals, we observed a switch in the phenotype of brain-infiltrating CD8⁺ T cell populations from KLRG1⁺ CD127⁻ (SLEC) to KLRG1⁻ CD127⁺ (MPEC) during transition from acute through chronic phases of infection. At 14 and 30 dpi, the majority of CD8⁺ T cells expressed CD127, a marker of memory cells. In contrast, fewer CD8⁺ T cells expressed CD127 within brains of infected, PD-L1 knockout (KO) animals. Notably, in WT mice, a large population of CD8⁺ T cells was phenotyped as CD103⁺ CD69⁺, markers of bT_RM, and differences were observed in the numbers of these cells when compared to PD-L1 KOs. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that brain-resident CD103⁺ bT_RM cells were localized to the parenchyma. Higher frequencies of CXCR3 were also observed among WT animals in contrast to PD-L1 KOs.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results indicate that bT_RMs are present within the CNS following viral infection and the PD-1: PD-L1 pathway plays a role in the generation of this brain-resident population.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-017-0860-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Modulation of Microglial Cell Fcγ Receptor Expression Following Viral Brain Infection

Fcγ receptors (FcγRs) for IgG couple innate and adaptive immunity through activation of effector cells by antigen-antibody complexes. We investigated relative levels of activating and inhibitory FcγRs on brain-resident microglia following murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection. Flow cytometric analysis of microglial cells obtained from infected brain tissue demonstrated that activating FcγRs were expressed maximally at 5 d post-infection (dpi), while the inhibitory receptor (FcγRIIB) remained highly elevated during both acute and chronic phases of infection. The highly induced expression of activating FcγRIV during the acute phase of infection was also noteworthy. Furthermore, in vitro analysis using cultured primary microglia demonstrated the role of interferon (IFN)γ and interleukin (IL)-4 in polarizing these cells towards a M1 or M2 phenotype, respectively. Microglial cell-polarization correlated with maximal expression of either FcγRIV or FcγRIIB following stimulation with IFNγ or IL-4, respectively. Finally, we observed a significant delay in polarization of microglia towards an M2 phenotype in the absence of FcγRs in MCMV-infected Fcer1g and FcgR2b knockout mice. These studies demonstrate that neuro-inflammation following viral infection increases expression of activating FcγRs on M1-polarized microglia. In contrast, expression of the inhibitory FcγRIIB receptor promotes M2-polarization in order to shut-down deleterious immune responses and limit bystander brain damage.

Glial cell activation, recruitment, and survival of B-lineage cells following MCMV brain infection

Background

Chemokines produced by reactive glia drive migration of immune cells and previous studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that CD19⁺ B cells infiltrate the brain. In this study, in vivo and in vitro experiments investigated the role of reactive glial cells in recruitment and survival of B-lineage cells in response to (murine cytomegalovirus) MCMV infection.

Methods

Flow cytometric analysis was used to assess chemokine receptor expression on brain-infiltrating B cells. Real-time RT-PCR and ELISA were used to measure chemokine levels. Dual-immunohistochemical staining was used to co-localize chemokine production by reactive glia. Primary glial cell cultures and migration assays were used to examine chemokine-mediated recruitment. Astrocyte: B cell co-cultures were used to investigate survival and proliferation.

Results

The chemokine receptors CXCR3, CXCR5, CCR5, and CCR7 were detected on CD19⁺ cells isolated from the brain during MCMV infection. In particular, CXCR3 was found to be elevated on an increasing number of cells over the time course of infection, and it was the primary chemokine receptor expressed at 60 days post infection Quite different expression kinetics were observed for CXCR5, CCR5, and CCR7, which were elevated on the highest number of cells early during infection and decreased by 14, 30, and 60 days post infection Correspondingly, elevated levels of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL13, as well as CCL5, were found within the brains of infected animals, and only low levels of CCL3 and CCL19 were detected. Differential expression of CXCL9/CXCL10 and CXCL13 between microglia and astrocytes was apparent, and B cells moved towards supernatants from MCMV-infected microglia, but not astrocytes. Pretreatment with neutralizing Abs to CXCL9 and CXCL10 inhibited this migration. In contrast, neutralizing Abs to the ligand of CXCR5 (i.e., CXCL13) did not significantly block chemotaxis. Proliferation of brain-infiltrating B cells was detected at 7 days post infection and persisted through the latest time tested (60 days post infection). Finally, astrocytes produce BAFF (B cell activating factor of the TNF family) and promote proliferation of B cells via cell-to-cell contact.

Conclusions

CXCR3 is the primary chemokine receptor on CD19⁺ B cells persisting within the brain, and migration to microglial cell supernatants is mediated through this receptor. Correspondingly, microglial cells produce CXCL9 and CXCL10, but not CXCL13. Reactive astrocytes promote B cell proliferation.

Tregs Modulate Lymphocyte Proliferation, Activation, and Resident-Memory T-Cell Accumulation within the Brain during MCMV Infection

Accumulation and retention of regulatory T-cells (Tregs) has been reported within post viral-encephalitic brains, however, the full extent to which these cells modulate neuroinflammation is yet to be elucidated. Here, we used Foxp3-DTR (diphtheria toxin receptor) knock-in transgenic mice, which upon administration of low dose diphtheria toxin (DTx) results in specific deletion of Tregs. We investigated the proliferation status of various immune cell subtypes within inflamed central nervous system (CNS) tissue. Depletion of Tregs resulted in increased proliferation of both CD8⁺ and CD4⁺ T-cell subsets within the brain at 14 d post infection (dpi) when compared to Treg-sufficient animals. At 30 dpi, while proliferation of CD8⁺ T-cells was controlled within brains of both Treg-depleted and undepleted mice, proliferation of CD4⁺ T-cells remained significantly enhanced with DTx-treatment. Previous studies have demonstrated that Treg numbers within the brain rebound following DTx treatment to even higher numbers than in untreated animals. Despite this rebound, CD8⁺ and CD4⁺ T-cells proliferated at a higher rate when compared to that of Treg-sufficient mice, thus maintaining sustained neuroinflammation. Furthermore, at 30 dpi we found the majority of CD8⁺ T-cells were CD127^hi KLRG1^- indicating that the cells were long lived memory precursor cells. These cells showed marked elevation of CD103 expression, a marker of tissue resident-memory T-cells (T_RM) in the CNS, in untreated animals when compared to DTx-treated animals suggesting that generation of T_RM is impaired upon Treg depletion. Moreover, the effector function of T_RM as indicated by granzyme B production in response to peptide re-stimulation was found to be more potent in Treg-sufficient animals. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that Tregs limit neuroinflammatory responses to viral infection by controlling cell proliferation and may direct a larger proportion of lymphocytes within the brain to be maintained as T_RM cells.

Ethanol-Induced TLR4/NLRP3 Neuroinflammatory Response in Microglial Cells Promotes Leukocyte Infiltration Across the BBB

We reported that the ethanol-induced innate immune response by activating TLR4 signaling triggers gliosis and neuroinflammation. Ethanol also activates other immune receptors, such as NOD-like-receptors, and specifically NLRP3-inflammasome in astroglial cells, to stimulate caspase-1 cleavage and IL-1β and IL-18 cytokines production. Yet, whether microglia NLRs are also sensitive to the ethanol effects that contribute to neuroinflammation is uncertain. Using cerebral cortexes of the chronic alcohol-fed WT and TLR4(-/-) mice, we demonstrated that chronic ethanol treatment enhanced TLR4 mediated-NLRP3/Caspase-1 complex activation, and up-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines levels. Ethanol-induced NLRP3-inflammasome activation and mitochondria-ROS generation were also observed in cultured microglial cells. The up-regulation of CD45(high)/CD11b(+) cell populations and matrix metalloproteinase-9 levels was also noted in the cortexes of the ethanol-treated WT mice. Notably, elimination of the TLR4 function abolished most ethanol-induced neuroinflammatory effects. Thus, our results demonstrate that ethanol triggers TLR4-mediated NLRP3-inflammasome activation in glial cells, and suggest that microglia stimulation may compromise the permeability of blood-brain barrier events to contribute to ethanol-induced neuroinflammation and brain damage.

Chronic reactive gliosis following regulatory T cell depletion during acute MCMV encephalitis

Long-term, persistent central nervous system inflammation is commonly seen following brain infection. Using a murine model of viral encephalitis (murine cytomegalovirus, MCMV) we have previously shown that post-encephalitic brains are maintained in an inflammatory state consisting of glial cell reactivity, retention of brain-infiltrating tissue-resident memory CD8⁺ T-cells, and long-term persistence of antibody-producing cells of the B-lineage. Here, we report that this neuroinflammation occurs concomitantly with accumulation and retention of immunosuppressive regulatory T-cells (Tregs), and is exacerbated following their ablation. However, the extent to which these Tregs function to control neuroimmune activation following MCMV encephalitis is unknown. In this study, we used Foxp3-diphtheria toxin receptor-GFP (Foxp3-DTR-GFP) transgenic mice, which upon administration of low-dose diphtheria toxin (DTx) results in the specific depletion of Tregs, to investigate their function. We found treatment with DTx during the acute phase of viral brain infection (0-4 dpi) resulted in depletion of Tregs from the brain, exacerbation of encephalitis (i.e., increased presence of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T-cells), and chronic reactive phenotypes of resident glial cells (i.e., elevated MHC Class II as well as PD-L1 levels, sustained microgliosis, and increased glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression on astrocytes) versus untreated, infected animals. This chronic proinflammatory environment was associated with reduced cognitive performance in spatial learning and memory tasks (Barnes Maze) by convalescent animals. These data demonstrate that chronic glial cell activation, unremitting post-encephalitic neuroinflammation, and its associated long-term neurological sequelae in response to viral brain infection are modulated by the immunoregulatory properties of Tregs. GLIA 2015;63:1982-1996.

Infiltrating regulatory B cells control neuroinflammation following viral brain infection

Previous studies have demonstrated the existence of a subset of B lymphocytes, regulatory B cells (Bregs), which modulate immune function. In this study, in vivo and in vitro experiments were undertaken to elucidate the role of these Bregs in controlling neuroinflammation following viral brain infection. We used multicolor flow cytometry to phenotype lymphocyte subpopulations infiltrating the brain, along with in vitro cocultures to assess their anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory roles. This distinctive subset of CD19(+)CD1d(hi)CD5(+) B cells was found to infiltrate the brains of chronically infected animals, reaching highest levels at the latest time point tested (30 d postinfection). B cell-deficient Jh(-/-) mice were found to develop exacerbated neuroimmune responses as measured by enhanced accumulation and/or retention of CD8(+) T cells within the brain, as well as increased levels of microglial activation (MHC class II). Conversely, levels of Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells were found to be significantly lower in Jh(-/-) mice when compared with wild-type (Wt) animals. Further experiments showed that in vitro-generated IL-10-secreting Bregs (B10) were able to inhibit cytokine responses from microglia following stimulation with viral Ags. These in vitro-generated B10 cells were also found to promote proliferation of regulatory T cells in coculture studies. Finally, gain-of-function experiments demonstrated that reconstitution of Wt B cells into Jh(-/-) mice restored neuroimmune responses to levels exhibited by infected Wt mice. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Bregs modulate T lymphocyte as well as microglial cell responses within the infected brain and promote CD4(+)Foxp3(+) T cell proliferation in vitro.

Immunobiology of congenital cytomegalovirus infection of the central nervous system—the murine cytomegalovirus model

Congenital human cytomegalovirus infection is a leading infectious cause of long-term neurodevelopmental sequelae, including mental retardation and hearing defects. Strict species specificity of cytomegaloviruses has restricted the scope of studies of cytomegalovirus infection in animal models. To investigate the pathogenesis of congenital human cytomegalovirus infection, we developed a mouse cytomegalovirus model that recapitulates the major characteristics of central nervous system infection in human infants, including the route of neuroinvasion and neuropathological findings. Following intraperitoneal inoculation of newborn animals with mouse cytomegalovirus, the virus disseminates to the central nervous system during high-level viremia and replicates in the brain parenchyma, resulting in a focal but widespread, non-necrotizing encephalitis. Central nervous system infection is coupled with the recruitment of resident and peripheral immune cells as well as the expression of a large number of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Although infiltration of cellular constituents of the innate immune response characterizes the early immune response in the central nervous system, resolution of productive infection requires virus-specific CD8(+) T cells. Perinatal mouse cytomegalovirus infection results in profoundly altered postnatal development of the mouse central nervous system and long-term motor and sensory disabilities. Based on an enhanced understanding of the pathogenesis of this infection, prospects for novel intervention strategies aimed to improve the outcome of congenital human cytomegalovirus infection are proposed.

Glial cells suppress postencephalitic CD8+ T lymphocytes through PD-L1

Engagement of the programmed death (PD)−1 receptor on activated cells by its ligand (PD‐L1) is a mechanism for suppression of activated T‐lymphocytes. Microglia, the resident inflammatory cells of the brain, are important for pathogen detection and initiation of innate immunity, however, a novel role for these cells as immune regulators has also emerged. PD‐L1 on microglia has been shown to negatively regulate T‐cell activation in models of multiple sclerosis and acute viral encephalitis. In this study, we investigated the role of glial cell PD‐L1 in controlling encephalitogenic CD8⁺ T‐lymphocytes, which infiltrate the brain to manage viral infection, but remain to produce chronic neuroinflammation. Using a model of chronic neuroinflammation following murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV)‐induced encephalitis, we found that CD8⁺ T‐cells persisting within the brain expressed PD‐1. Conversely, activated microglia expressed PD‐L1. In vitro, primary murine microglia, which express low basal levels of PD‐L1, upregulated the co‐inhibitory ligand on IFN‐γ‐treatment. Blockade of the PD‐1: PD‐L1 pathway in microglial: CD8⁺ T‐cell co‐cultures increased T‐cell IFN‐γ and interleukin (IL)−2 production. We observed a similar phenomenon following blockade of this co‐inhibitory pathway in astrocyte: CD8⁺ T‐cell co‐cultures. Using ex vivo cultures of brain leukocytes, including microglia and CD8⁺ T‐cells, obtained from mice with MCMV‐induced chronic neuroinflammation, we found that neutralization of either PD‐1 or PD‐L1 increased IFN‐γ production from virus‐specific CD8⁺ T‐cells stimulated with MCMV IE1_168–176 peptide. These data demonstrate that microglia and astrocytes control antiviral T‐cell responses and suggest a therapeutic potential of PD1: PD‐L1 modulation to manage the deleterious consequences of uncontrolled neuroinflammation. GLIA 2014;62:1582–1594

Microglia and astrocytes exert regulatory control over T‐cells during chronic neuroinflammation following viral brain infection.

Post-encephalitic glial cells express PD‐L1 and suppress persistent CD8 T‐cells via the PD‐1: PD‐L1 inhibitory pathway.

Persistent humoral immune responses in the CNS limit recovery of reactivated murine cytomegalovirus

Background

Experimental infection of the mouse brain with murine CMV (MCMV) elicits neuroimmune responses that terminate acute infection while simultaneously preventing extensive bystander damage. Previous studies have determined that CD8⁺ T lymphocytes are required to restrict acute, productive MCMV infection within the central nervous system (CNS). In this study, we investigated the contribution of humoral immune responses in control of MCMV brain infection.

Methodology/Principal Findings

Utilizing our MCMV brain infection model, we investigated B-lymphocyte-lineage cells and assessed their role in controlling the recovery of reactivated virus from latently infected brain tissue. Brain infiltrating leukocytes were first phenotyped using markers indicative of B-lymphocytes and plasma cells. Results obtained during these studies showed a steady increase in the recruitment of B-lymphocyte-lineage cells into the brain throughout the time-course of viral infection. Further, MCMV-specific antibody secreting cells (ASC) were detected within the infiltrating leukocyte population using an ELISPOT assay. Immunohistochemical studies of brain sections revealed co-localization of CD138⁺ cells with either IgG or IgM. Additional immunohistochemical staining for MCMV early antigen 1 (E1, m112–113), a reported marker of viral latency in neurons, confirmed its expression in the brain during latent infection. Finally, using B-cell deficient (Jh^−/−) mice we demonstrated that B-lymphocytes control recovery of reactivated virus from latently-infected brain tissue. A significantly higher rate of reactivated virus was recovered from the brains of Jh^−/− mice when compared to Wt animals.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results demonstrate that MCMV infection triggers accumulation and persistence of B-lymphocyte-lineage cells within the brain, which produce antibodies and play a significant role in controlling reactivated virus.

Memory T cells persisting in the brain following MCMV infection induce long-term microglial activation via interferon-γ

Murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) brain infection stimulates microglial cell-driven proinflammatory chemokine production which precedes the presence of brain-infiltrating systemic immune cells. Here, we show that in response to MCMV brain infection, antigen-specific CD8(+) T cells migrated into the brain and persisted as long-lived memory cells. The role of these persistent T cells in the brain is unclear because most of our understanding of antimicrobial T cell responses comes from analyses of lymphoid tissue. Strikingly, memory T cells isolated from the brain exhibited an effector phenotype and produced IFN-γ upon restimulation with viral peptide. Furthermore, we observed time-dependent and long-term activation of resident microglia, indicated by chronic MHC class II up-regulation and TNF-α production. The immune response in this immunologically restricted site persisted in the absence of active viral replication. Lymphocyte infiltrates were detected until 30 days post-infection (p.i.), with CD8(+) and CD4(+) T cells present at a 3:1 ratio, respectively. We then investigated the role of IFN-γ in chronic microglial activation by using IFN-γ-knockout (GKO) mice. At 30 days p.i., GKO mice demonstrated a similar phenotypic brain infiltrate when compared to wild-type mice (Wt), however, MHC class II expression on microglia isolated from these GKO mice was significantly lower compared to Wt animals. When IFN-γ producing CD8(+) T cells were reconstituted in GKO mice, MHC class II up-regulation on microglial cells was restored. Taken together, these results suggest that MCMV brain infection results in long-term persistence of antigen-specific CD8(+) T cells which produce IFN-γ and drive chronic microglial cell activation. This response was found to be dependent on IFN-γ production by viral Ag-specific T cells during the chronic phase of disease.

Infection of peripheral blood mononuclear cells with neuropathogenic equine herpesvirus type-1 strain Ab4 reveals intact interferon-α induction and induces suppression of anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 responses in comparison to other viral strains

The recent increase in incidence, morbidity, and mortality of neurological disease induced by equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) has suggested a change of virulence of the virus. The exact mechanisms by which EHV-1 induces neurologic disease are not known. Environmental, viral, and host risk factors might contribute to neurological manifestation. Here, we investigated innate interferon-α (IFN-α), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-4 responses after infection of equine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with EHV-1 using an available cytokine multiplex assay. Three viral strains representing an older isolate (RacL11), a recent abortigenic (NY03) and a neuropathogenic isolate (Ab4) were compared to identify differences in cytokine induction that might explain the increased pathogenicity of Ab4. Cytokine concentrations were also compared between foals, mares after birth, pregnant and non-pregnant mares to investigate whether immune responses to EHV-1 infection are influenced by age or pregnancy status. PBMC from all groups secreted high concentrations of anti-viral IFN-α in response to EHV-1. A reduced response was observed in foals compared to non-pregnant mares. EHV-1 infection induced moderate IL-10 and overall low IL-4 secretion. Ab4 infection resulted in a significant reduction of IL-10 responses in adult horses. IL-10 and IL-4 responses were lower in foals than in most mare groups. These data suggested that EHV-1 induces robust IFN-α secretion without major differences between viral strains. However, anti-inflammatory IL-10 production was significantly reduced after infection with neuropathogenic Ab4. The ability of this EHV-1 isolate to down-regulate IL-10 production might contribute to increased local inflammation and a higher risk for neurological manifestation of the disease after infection with Ab4.

Differential host gene responses in mice infected with two highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of subtype H5N1 isolated from wild birds in Thailand

In Thailand, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses of subtype H5N1 had been isolated from various wild birds during the HPAI outbreak in poultries. In this study, we examined the pathogenicity of two wild bird isolates (A/Pigeon/Thailand/VSMU-7-NPT/2004; Pigeon04 and A/Tree sparrow/Ratchaburi/VSMU-16-RBR/2005; T.sparrow05) in mice. They showed similar replication in several organs and lethal outcome. However, on day 3 post-infection, Pigeon04 induced mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL6 and TNFα) and MIP-2, neutrophil chemoattractant, in the lungs, resulting in severe pneumonia that was accompanied by neutrophil infiltration. In contrast, on day 7 post-infection, T.sparrow05 induced the expression of several cytokines to a greater extent than Pigeon04; it also potently induced mRNA expression of several cytokines in brains of the infected mice that triggered frequent inflammatory events. In sum, our study demonstrated that two HPAI viruses induced different host responses, despite having similar replications, resulting in lethal outcome in mice.

Reduced lymphocyte infiltration during cytomegalovirus brain infection of interleukin-10-deficient mice

Interleukin (IL)-10 deficiency results in highly elevated levels of interferon (IFN)-gamma, as well as the IFN-gamma-inducible chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10 within murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV)-infected brains. To test the hypothesis that these elevated chemokine levels would result in enhanced brain infiltration, we compared immune cell infiltration in response to MCMV brain infection between wild-type and IL-10 knockout (KO) mice. Longitudinal analysis following adoptive transfer of cells from beta-actin-luciferase transgenic wild-type mice showed maximal brain infiltration by peripheral immune cells occurred at 5 days post infection. Although the overall percentage of CD45(hi) cells infiltrating the brain was not altered by IL-10 deficiency, paradoxically, despite elevated chemokine levels, reduced T lymphocyte (CD8+) and natural killer (NK) (CD49b+) cell infiltration into the brain was observed in IL-10-deficient animals. This decreased lymphocyte infiltration was associated with elevated levels of the lymph node homing receptor L-selectin/CD62L on CD8+ T cells. Lymph node cells obtained from MCMV-infected mice deficient in IL-10 also displayed reduced migration towards CXCL10 when compared to wild-type animals. Taken together, these data show that despite elevated chemokine levels, absence of IL-10 results in reduced lymphocyte infiltration into MCMV-infected brains.

Interleukin-10 repletion suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreases liver pathology without altering viral replication in murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV)-infected IL-10 knockout mice

Objective and design

To determine the role of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in protecting against the deleterious pro-inflammatory cytokine response to murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV), we studied the impact of IL-10 repletion in MCMV-infected IL-10 knockout (KO) mice.

Materials and methods

IL-10 KO mice were infected with a sub-lethal dose of MCMV and treated daily with 5 μg of mouse recombinant IL-10 (mrIL-10). Cytokine transcription, viral load, cytokine expression and liver histopathology were assessed in IL-10 treated and untreated mice.

Results

mrIL-10 repletion suppressed the exaggerated pro-inflammatory cytokine response observed in IL-10 KO mice (vs. control) both systemically and at the organ level, without affecting viral load. Levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α mRNA in livers of treated mice were ~50–70-fold lower than in untreated mice at day 5 post-infection (p ≤ 0.05). In spleens and sera, levels of IFN-γ and IL-6 were significantly lower in treated mice than in untreated mice at day 5–7 post-infection (p ≤ 0.05). IL-10 blunting of cytokine responses was accompanied by attenuation of inflammation in livers of treated mice.

Conclusions

Repletion of IL-10 modulates the exaggerated pro-inflammatory cytokine responses that characterize IL-10 KO mice and protects against liver damage without altering viral load. IL-10 may be useful to control dysregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines responses during CMV infection.

Excess neutrophil infiltration during cytomegalovirus brain infection of interleukin-10-deficient mice

Wild-type mice control murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) brain infection, but identical infection is lethal to animals deficient in interleukin (IL)-10. Here, we report that MCMV-infected IL-10 knockout (KO) mice displayed a marked increase in neutrophil infiltration into the infected, IL-10-deficient brain when compared to wild-type animals. Enhanced microglial cell activation, determined by MHC class II up-regulation, overexpression of CXCL2, and elevated P-selectin mRNA levels were observed. In vivo blocking of CXCL2 attenuated neutrophil infiltration and significantly improved the outcome of infection. Collectively, these data indicate that the absence of IL-10 results in pathologic neutrophil infiltration into MCMV-infected brains.

Functional characterization of mouse spinal cord infiltrating CD8+ lymphocytes

Understanding the immunopathogenesis of neuroimmunological diseases of the CNS requires a robust method for isolating and characterizing the immune effector cells that infiltrate the spinal cord in animal models. We have developed a simple and rapid isolation method that produces high yields of spinal cord infiltrating leukocytes from a single demyelinated spinal cord and which maintains high surface expression of key immunophenotyping antigens. Using this method and the Theiler's virus model of chronic demyelination, we report the presence of spinal cord infiltrating acute effector CD8(+) lymphocytes that are CD45(hi)CD44(lo)CD62L(-) and a population of spinal cord infiltrating target effector memory CD8(+) lymphocytes that are CD45(hi)CD44(hi)CD62L(-). These cells respond robustly to ex vivo stimulation by producing interferon gamma but do not exhibit specificity for Theiler's virus in a cytotoxicity assay. We conclude that target-derived lymphocytes in a mouse model of chronic spinal cord demyelination may have unique functional specificities.

Neuropathogenesis of congenital cytomegalovirus infection: disease mechanisms and prospects for intervention

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the leading infectious cause of mental retardation and hearing loss in the developed world. In recent years, there has been an improved understanding of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and long-term disabilities associated with CMV infection. In this review, current concepts regarding the pathogenesis of neurological injury caused by CMV infections acquired by the developing fetus are summarized. The pathogenesis of CMV-induced disabilities is considered in the context of the epidemiology of CMV infection in pregnant women and newborn infants, and the clinical manifestations of brain injury are reviewed. The prospects for intervention, including antiviral therapies and vaccines, are summarized. Priorities for future research are suggested to improve the understanding of this common and disabling illness of infancy.

Prolonged microglial cell activation and lymphocyte infiltration following experimental herpes encephalitis

Experimental murine herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 brain infection stimulates microglial cell-driven proinflammatory chemokine production which precedes the presence of brain-infiltrating systemic immune cells. In the present study, we investigated the phenotypes and infiltration kinetics of leukocyte trafficking into HSV-infected murine brains. Using real-time bioluminescence imaging, the infiltration of luciferase-positive splenocytes, transferred via tail vein injection into the brains of HSV-infected animals, was followed over an 18-day time course. Flow cytometric analysis of brain-infiltrating leukocytes at 5, 8, 14, and 30 days postinfection (d.p.i.), was performed to assess their phenotype. A predominantly macrophage (CD45(high)CD11b(+)Ly6C(high)) and neutrophil (CD45(high)CD11b(+)Ly6G(+)) infiltration was seen early during infection, with elevated levels of TNF-alpha mRNA expression. By 14 d.p.i., the phenotypic profile shifted to a predominantly lymphocytic (CD45(high)CD3(+)) infiltrate. This lymphocyte infiltrate was detected until 30 d.p.i., when infectious virus could not be recovered, with CD8(+) and CD4(+) T cells present at a 3:1 ratio, respectively. This T lymphocyte infiltration paralleled increased IFN-gamma mRNA expression in the brain. Activation of resident microglia (CD45(int)CD11b(+)) was also detected until 30 d.p.i., as assessed by MHC class II expression. Activated microglial cells were further identified as the predominant source of IL-1beta. In addition, infected mice given primed immunocytes at 4 d.p.i. showed a significant increase in mortality. Taken together, these results demonstrate that intranasal infection results in early macrophage and neutrophil infiltration into the brain followed by prolonged microglial activation and T lymphocyte retention. Similar prolonged neuroimmune activation may contribute to the neuropathological sequelae observed in herpes encephalitis patients.

Cytomegalovirus infection and interferon-gamma modulate major histocompatibility complex class I expression on neural stem cells

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading transmittable cause of congenital brain abnormalities in children and infection results in fatal ventriculoencephalitis in advanced acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients. Pathology associated with CMV brain infection is seen predominantly in the periventricular region, an area known to harbor neural stem cells (NSCs). In the present study, using an adult model of murine CMV brain infection, the authors demonstrated that nestin-positive NSCs in the subventricular zone are susceptible to murine CMV infection. Furthermore, primary NSC cultures supported productive murine CMV replication with a 1000-fold increase in viral titers by 5 days post infection (d.p.i). Previous studies from the authors' laboratory demonstrated that CD8 lymphocytes were essential in protecting the brain against murine CMV infection. In the present study, the authors found that interferon (IFN)-gamma treatment increased the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I on NSCs. Viral infection, on the other hand, inhibited this IFN-gamma-induced MHC up-regulation. In addition to increasing MHC class I expression, IFN-gamma (but not tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-alpha, interleukin [IL]-1 beta, or IL-10) also suppressed NSC proliferation in vitro. This decrease in proliferation was not accompanied by apoptosis or extracellular release of cellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), suggesting that the effects were not due to direct cytotoxicity. These studies demonstrate that NSCs are susceptible to murine CMV infection and inflammatory mediators, such as IFN-gamma, alter cellular characteristics which may have an impact on their reparative functions.