CCR6 as a mediator of immunity in the lung and gut. Exp Cell Res. 2011;317:613-619. [PMID: 21376174 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2010.12.018]

GRP78 Downregulation in Keratinocytes Promotes Skin Inflammation through the Recruitment and Activation of CCR6+ IL-17A-Producing γδ T Cells

The migration of γδ T lymphocytes toward skin lesions and their concomitant pathogenic IL-17A production play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. However, the regulatory mechanisms of IL-17A production by γδ T cells and their migration remain to be fully explored. Intracellular GRP78 is a molecular chaperone that regulates endoplasmic reticulum stress, whereas secretory GRP78, as a member of the resolution-associated molecular patterns, exerts immunoregulatory effects. In this study, we reported that both the intracellular GRP78 in skin lesions and secretory GRP78 in the serum were significantly decreased in patients with psoriasis. A GRP78 knockdown exacerbated imiquimod-induced skin inflammation, whereas the application of recombinant GRP78 protein or BIP inducer X (a GRP78 inducer) attenuated the dermatitis. Mechanistically, the GRP78 knockdown in keratinocytes enhanced the production of chemokines, specifically CCL20, which regulates γδ T-cell migration. Moreover, recombinant GRP78 was found to directly bind to γδ T cells to suppress its migration ability and proinflammatory capacities by downregulating the CCR6 and IL-17A expression. Collectively, our results uncovered a pivotal role of GRP78 in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, which was mainly exerted by regulating the interaction between keratinocytes and γδ T cells, and might provide a promising target for psoriasis therapy.

Bulk RNA sequencing of human pediatric lung cell populations reveals unique transcriptomic signature associated with postnatal pulmonary development

Postnatal lung development results in an increasingly functional organ prepared for gas exchange and pathogenic challenges. It is achieved through cellular differentiation and migration. Changes in the tissue architecture during this development process are well-documented and increasing cellular diversity associated with it are reported in recent years. Despite recent progress, transcriptomic and molecular pathways associated with human postnatal lung development are yet to be fully understood. In this study, we investigated gene expression patterns associated with healthy pediatric lung development in four major enriched cell populations (epithelial, endothelial, and nonendothelial mesenchymal cells, along with lung leukocytes) from 1-day-old to 8-yr-old organ donors with no known lung disease. For analysis, we considered the donors in four age groups [less than 30 days old neonates, 30 days to < 1 yr old infants, toddlers (1 to < 2 yr), and children 2 yr and older] and assessed differentially expressed genes (DEG). We found increasing age-associated transcriptional changes in all four major cell types in pediatric lung. Transition from neonate to infant stage showed highest number of DEG compared with the number of DEG found during infant to toddler- or toddler to older children-transitions. Profiles of differential gene expression and further pathway enrichment analyses indicate functional epithelial cell maturation and increased capability of antigen presentation and chemokine-mediated communication. Our study provides a comprehensive reference of gene expression patterns during healthy pediatric lung development that will be useful in identifying and understanding aberrant gene expression patterns associated with early life respiratory diseases.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study presents postnatal transcriptomic changes in major cell populations in human lung, namely endothelial, epithelial, mesenchymal cells, and leukocytes. Although human postnatal lung development continues through early adulthood, our results demonstrate that greatest transcriptional changes occur in first few months of life during neonate to infant transition. These early transcriptional changes in lung parenchyma are particularly notable for functional maturation and activation of alveolar type II cell genes.

Causal role of immune cells in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Mendelian randomization study

OBJECTIVES

Innate and adaptive immunity play different roles in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, previous studies on the relationship between immune cells and COPD reported inconsistent results.

METHODS

The causal connection between 731 immune cells and COPD was established using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis through publicly accessible genetic data. The heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropism of the findings were confirmed using sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

In the B-cell panel, B-cell activating factor receptor (BAFF-R) on CD20- and CD20 on IgD-CD38bright (OR (95% CI): 0.93 (0.88, 0.99) and 0.97 (0.95, 0.98), respectively) were discovered to be protective. In the cDC panel, CD62L- plasmacytoid DC AC, CD80 on monocytes and CD11c on myeloid DCs (OR (95% CI): 0.94 (0.92, 0.97), 0.97 (0.94, 0.99) and (0.97 (0.95, 0.98), respectively) exerted protective effects. However, unswitched memory AC (OR (95%CI): 1.08 (1.01,1.15)) and CD 19 on IgD- CD 27- (OR (95%CI): 1.06 (1.02,1.10)) were hazardous in the B-cell panel. However, among the 731 immune cell phenotypes, no causal relationship was found for COPD on immune cells.

CONCLUSION

This study found a potential causal relationship between immune cells in COPD, ruling out reverse causation. This study provides new avenues for studying the mechanisms of COPD.

Identifying a survival-associated cell type based on multi-level transcriptome analysis in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease with a five-year survival rate of less than 40%. There is significant variability in survival time among IPF patients, but the underlying mechanisms for this are not clear yet.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We collected single-cell RNA sequence data of 13,223 epithelial cells taken from 32 IPF patients and bulk RNA sequence data from 456 IPF patients in GEO. Based on unsupervised clustering analysis at the single-cell level and deconvolution algorithm at bulk RNA sequence data, we discovered a special alveolar type 2 cell subtype characterized by high expression of CCL20 (referred to as ATII-CCL20), and found that IPF patients with a higher proportion of ATII-CCL20 had worse prognoses. Furthermore, we uncovered the upregulation of immune cell infiltration and metabolic functions in IPF patients with a higher proportion of ATII-CCL20. Finally, the comprehensive decision tree and nomogram were constructed to optimize the risk stratification of IPF patients and provide a reference for accurate prognosis evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study by integrating single-cell and bulk RNA sequence data from IPF patients identified a special subtype of ATII cells, ATII-CCL20, which was found to be a risk cell subtype associated with poor prognosis in IPF patients. More importantly, the ATII-CCL20 cell subtype was linked with metabolic functions and immune infiltration.

Prognostic Value of Macrophage Inflammatory Protein-3alpha (MIP3-Alpha) and Severity Scores in Elderly Patients with Sepsis

Objective

This study examines the effectiveness of MIP-3alpha and severity scores in determining the prognosis of elderly sepsis patients.

Methods

From October 2020 to April 2021, a total of 171 elderly sepsis patients were admitted to the Emergency Department of the Shijingshan Branch of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University. According to the 28-day mortality rate, they were divided into two groups: survivors (48 cases) and deaths (123 cases). At admission, severity scores which are the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) were calculated. The logistic regression was used to analyze the independent risk factors associated with 28-day mortality in elderly sepsis patients. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the value of MIP-3alpha, SOFA, and APACHE II in the evaluation of 28-day mortality in elderly sepsis patients.

Results

MIP-3alpha, SOFA and APACHE II of the death group were significantly higher than those of the survival group (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that MIP-3alpha, SOFA, APACHE II, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were independent risk factors for 28-day mortality of senile sepsis (P < 0.05). Analysis of the ROC curve revealed that MIP-3alpha, SOFA, APACHE II had predictive value for the 28-day prognosis of senile sepsis (all P < 0.01). Combing with MIP-3alpha and SOFA showed better predictive ability (Z1 = 3.733, Z2 = 2.996, both P < 0.01), compared to detecting MIP-3alpha and SOFA alone.

Conclusion

In senile sepsis, MIP-3alpha, SOFA, APACHE II and SBP are independent risk factors for 28-day mortality. The combination of MIP-3alpha and SOFA can further enhance the predictive value of 28-day mortality in patients with senile sepsis and provide some reference value for the evaluation and treatment of senile sepsis.

Host transcriptome response to heat stress and Eimeria maxima infection in meat-type chickens

Eimeria (E.) maxima parasite infects chickens' midgut disrupting the jejunal and ileal mucosa causing high morbidity and mortality. Heat stress (HS) is a seasonal stressor that impacts biological functions leading to poor performance. This study elucidates how HS, E. maxima infection, and their combination affect the ileum transcriptome. Two-hundred and forty 2-week-old males Ross708 chickens were randomly allocated into four treatment groups: thermoneutral-control (TNc), thermoneutral-infected (TNi), heat-stress control (HSc), and heat stress-infected (HSi), with 6 replicates each of 10 birds. Infected groups received 200x103 sporulated E. maxima oocysts/bird, and heat-treated groups were raised at 35°C. At 6-day post-treatment, ileums of five randomly selected chickens per group were sampled, RNA was extracted and sequenced. A total of 413, 3377, 1908, and 2304 DEGs were identified when applying the comparisons: TNc vs HSc, TNc vs TNi, HSi vs HSc, and TNi vs HSi, respectively, at cutoff ≥1.2-fold change (FDR: q<0.05). HSc vs TNc showed upregulation of lipid metabolic pathways and degradation/metabolism of multiple amino acids; and downregulation of most immune-related and protein synthesis pathways. TNc vs TNi displayed upregulation of most of immune-associated pathways and eukaryotic mRNA maturation pathways; and downregulation of fatty acid metabolism and multiple amino acid metabolism pathways including tryptophan. Comparing HSi versus HSc and TNi revealed that combining the two stressors restored the expression of some cellular functions, e.g., oxidative phosphorylation and protein synthesis; and downregulate immune response pathways associated with E. maxima infection. During E. maxima infection under HS the calcium signaling pathway was downregulated, including genes responsible for increasing the cytoplasmic calcium concentration; and tryptophan metabolism was upregulated, including genes that contribute to catabolizing tryptophan through serotonin and indole pathways; which might result in reducing the cytoplasmic pool of nutrients and calcium available for the parasite to scavenge and consequently might affect the parasite's reproductive ability.

Food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis in infants is associated with low serum levels of macrophage inflammatory protein-3a

BACKGROUND

Food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis (FPIAP) is a nonimmunoglobulin (IgE)-mediated food hypersensitivity and the exact mechanisms that cause FPIAP are unknown. Chemokines play crucial roles in the development of allergic diseases.

OBJECTIVE

To examine serum levels of a group of chemokines in infants with FPIAP.

METHODS

In 67 infants with FPIAP and 65 healthy infants, we measured serum levels of mucosa-associated epithelial chemokine (MEC/CCL28), thymus-expressed chemokine (TECK/CCL25), CX3CL1 and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-3a/CCL20.

RESULTS

Infants with FPIAP had a lower median value of MIP3a/CCL20 than healthy infants [0.7 (0-222) vs. 4 (0-249) pg/mL, respectively] (p < 0.001). Infants with MIP3a/CCL20 levels ≤0.95 pg/mL have 13.93 times more risk of developing FPIAP than infants with MIP3a/CCL20 levels >0.95 pg/mL. Serum MEC/CCL28, TECK/CCL25, and CX3CL1 levels were similar between the infants with FPIAP and the control group.

CONCLUSION

MIP3a/CCL20 serum levels were reduced in infants with FPIAP compared with healthy controls. Whether this finding has a role in pathogenesis remains to be determined.

Deficiency and altered phenotype of mucosal-associated invariant T cells in systemic sclerosis

Objective

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs including the lung. Mucosal-associated invariant T cells are innate-like T lymphocytes able to produce various cytokines and cytotoxic mediators such as granzyme B. A large body of evidence supports a role of mucosal-associated invariant T cells in autoimmune disease but more recent reports suggest also a potential role in fibrotic conditions. Therefore, we herein addressed the question as whether mucosal-associated invariant T cells may have an altered profile in systemic sclerosis.

Methods

Mucosal-associated invariant T cell frequency was analyzed by flow cytometry, using fresh peripheral blood from 74 consecutive systemic sclerosis patients who were compared to 44 healthy donors. In addition, in-depth mucosal-associated invariant T cell phenotype and function were analyzed in unselected 29 women with systemic sclerosis who were compared to 23 healthy women donors.

Results

Proportion of circulating mucosal-associated invariant T cells was significantly reduced by 68% in systemic sclerosis compared to healthy donors (0.78% in systemic sclerosis vs 2.5%, p < 0.0001). Within systemic sclerosis subsets, mucosal-associated invariant T cells were reduced in patients with interstitial lung disease (systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease) (0.56% vs 0.96% in patients without interstitial lung disease, p = 0.04). Moreover, in systemic sclerosis patients, mucosal-associated invariant T cells displayed an activated phenotype indicated by markedly increased CD69+ mucosal-associated invariant T cell frequency (20% mucosal-associated invariant T cell CD69+ compared to 9.4% in healthy donors, p = 0.0014). Interestingly, mucosal-associated invariant T cells from systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease patients had a more pronounced altered phenotype compared to systemic sclerosis without interstitial lung disease with a correlation between mucosal-associated invariant T cells expressing CCR6+ and mucosal-associated invariant T cell frequency (r = 0.8, p = 0.006).

Conclusion

Circulating mucosal-associated invariant T cells were reduced and exhibited an activated phenotype in systemic sclerosis patients. This peripheral mucosal-associated invariant T cell deficiency may be related to enhanced apoptosis and/or homing in inflamed tissue, particularly in systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease patients.

Role of the CCL20/CCR6 axis in tubular epithelial cell injury: Kidney-specific translational insights from acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease

This study investigated the role of the axis involving chemokine receptor 6 (CCR6) and its ligand chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 20 (CCL20) in acute kidney disease (AKD) using an ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) model. The model was established by clamping the unilateral renal artery pedicle of C57BL/6 mice for 30 min, followed by evaluation of CCL20/CCR6 expression at 4 weeks post-IRI. In vitro studies were conducted to examine the effects of hypoxia and H2 O2 -induced oxidative stress on CCL20/CCR6 expression in kidney tissues of patients with AKD and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Tubular epithelial cell apoptosis was more severe in C57BL/6 mice than in CCL20 antibody-treated mice, and CCR6, NGAL mRNA, and IL-8 levels were higher under hypoxic conditions. CCL20 blockade ameliorated apoptotic damage in a dose-dependent manner under hypoxia and reactive oxygen species injury. CCR6 expression in IRI mice indicated that the disease severity was similar to that in patients with the AKD phenotype. Morphometry of CCL20/CCR6 expression revealed a higher likelihood of CCR6+ cell presence in CKD stage 3 patients than in stage 1-2 patients. Kidney tissues of patients with CKD frequently contained CCL20+ cells, which were positively correlated with interstitial inflammation. CCL20/CCR6 levels were increased in fibrotic kidneys at 4 and 8 weeks after 5/6 nephrectomy. These findings suggest that modulating the CCL20/CCR6 pathway is a potential therapeutic strategy for managing the progression of AKD to CKD.

Expression of Inflammatory Genes in Murine Lungs in a Model of Experimental Pulmonary Hypertension: Effects of an Antibody-Based Targeted Delivery of Interleukin-9

BACKGROUND

Pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a multifactorial process driven by inflammation and pulmonary vascular remodeling. To target these two aspects of PH, we recently tested a novel treatment: Interleukin-9 (IL9) fused to F8, an antibody that binds to the extra-domain A of fibronectin (EDA+ Fn). As EDA+ Fn is not found in healthy adult tissue but is expressed during PH, IL9 is delivered specifically to the tissue affected by PH. We found that F8IL9 reduced pulmonary vascular remodeling and attenuated PH compared with sham-treated mice.

PURPOSE

To evaluate possible F8IL9 effects on PH-associated inflammatory processes, we analysed the expression of genes involved in pulmonary immune responses.

METHODS

We applied the monocrotaline (MCT) model of PH in mice (n = 44). Animals were divided into five experimental groups: sham-induced animals without PH (control, n = 4), MCT-induced PH without treatment (PH, n = 8), dual endothelin receptor antagonist treatment (dual ERA, n = 8), F8IL9 treatment (n = 12, 2 formats with n = 6 each), or with KSFIL9 treatment (KSFIL9, n = 12, 2 formats with n = 6 each, KSF: control antibody with irrelevant antigen specificity). After 28 days, a RT-PCR gene expression analysis of inflammatory response (84 genes) was performed in the lung.

RESULTS

Compared with the controls, 19 genes exhibited relevant (+2.5-fold) upregulation in the PH group without treatment. Gene expression levels in F8IL9-treated lung tissue were reduced compared to the PH group without treatment. This was the case especially for CCL20, CXCL5, C-reactive protein, pentraxin related (CRPPR), and Kininogen-1 (KNG1).

CONCLUSION

In accordance with the hypothesis stated above, F8IL9 treatment diminished the upregulation of some genes associated with inflammation in a PH animal model. Therefore, we hypothesize that IL9-based immunocytokine treatment will likely modulate various inflammatory pathways.

Gut microbiota dysbiosis-related susceptibility to nontuberculous mycobacterial lung disease

The role of gut microbiota in host defense against nontuberculous mycobacterial lung disease (NTM-LD) was poorly understood. Here, we showed significant gut microbiota dysbiosis in patients with NTM-LD. Reduced abundance of Prevotella copri was significantly associated with NTM-LD and its disease severity. Compromised TLR2 activation activity in feces and plasma in the NTM-LD patients was highlighted. In the antibiotics-treated mice as a study model, gut microbiota dysbiosis with reduction of TLR2 activation activity in feces, sera, and lung tissue occurred. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated immunocompromised in lung which were closely associated with increased NTM-LD susceptibility. Oral administration of P. copri or its capsular polysaccharides enhanced TLR2 signaling, restored immune response, and ameliorated NTM-LD susceptibility. Our data highlighted the association of gut microbiota dysbiosis, systematically compromised immunity and NTM-LD development. TLR2 activation by P. copri or its capsular polysaccharides might help prevent NTM-LD.

Mass cytometric analysis unveils a disease-specific immune cell network in the bone marrow in acquired aplastic anemia

Idiopathic acquired aplastic anemia (AA) is considered an immune-mediated syndrome of bone marrow failure since approximately 70% of patients respond to immunosuppressive therapy (IST) consisting of a course of anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) followed by long-term use of ciclosporin. However, the immune response that underlies the pathogenesis of AA remains poorly understood. In this study, we applied high-dimensional mass cytometry on bone marrow aspirates of AA patients pre-ATG, AA patients post-ATG and healthy donors to decipher which immune cells may be implicated in the pathogenesis of AA. We show that the bone marrow of AA patients features an immune cell composition distinct from healthy donors, with significant differences in the myeloid, B-cell, CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells lineages. Specifically, we discovered that AA pre-ATG is characterized by a disease-specific immune cell network with high frequencies of CD16+ myeloid cells, CCR6++ B-cells, Th17-like CCR6+ memory CD4+ T-cells, CD45RA+CCR7+CD38+ CD8+ T-cells and KLRG1+ terminally differentiated effector memory (EMRA) CD8+ T-cells, compatible with a state of chronic inflammation. Successful treatment with IST strongly reduced the levels of CD16+ myeloid cells and showed a trend toward normalization of the frequencies of CCR6++ B-cells, CCR6+ memory CD4+ T-cells and KLRG1+EMRA CD8+ T-cells. Altogether, our study provides a unique overview of the immune landscape in bone marrow in AA at a single-cell level and proposes CCR6 as a potential new therapeutic target in AA.

Gastrointestinal barrier integrity and mucosal inflammation as risk factors of blood stream infections in children treated for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

Chemotherapy-induced mucositis increases the risk of blood stream infections (BSI) due to translocation of bacteria across the intestinal epithelium. Our study investigated if quantitative measures of intestinal mucositis severity, including plasma citrulline (a marker of functional enterocytes) and CCL20 (an intestinal immune homeostatic chemokine), could identify patients at risk of BSI. A total of 106 children with ALL undergoing induction treatment (NOPHO ALL 2008) were included and information regarding BSI episodes was collected from the patients' medical records. Twenty-seven patients (25%) developed BSI during induction. Patients with BSI had a larger decrease in citrulline after chemotherapy than patients without BSI, and nearly all BSI episodes (25/27) occurred in the group of patients exhibiting a drop in citrulline (OR = 6.4 [95% CI: 1.4-29.3], P = .008). Patients who developed BSI had higher plasma CCL20 levels on days 8, 15 and 22 than patients without BSI (all P < .05), and elevated CCL20 levels on day 8 increased the risk of subsequent BSI (OR = 1.57 [1.11-2.22] per doubling of CCL20 level, P = .01) in a multivariable logistic regression analysis. These findings suggest that children with ALL who develop BSI during chemotherapy are characterised by more severe intestinal mucositis, as measured by plasma citrulline and CCL20. These markers may be useful in early risk stratification to guide treatment decisions.

ILC3: a case of conflicted identity

Innate lymphoid cells type 3 (ILC3s) are the first line sentinels at the mucous tissues, where they contribute to the homeostatic immune response in a major way. Also, they have been increasingly appreciated as important modulators of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune responses, both locally and systemically. The proper identification of ILC3 is of utmost importance for meaningful studies on their role in immunity. Flow cytometry is the method of choice for the detection and characterization of ILC3. However, the analysis of ILC3-related papers shows inconsistency in ILC3 phenotypic definition, as different inclusion and exclusion markers are used for their identification. Here, we present these discrepancies in the phenotypic characterization of human and mouse ILC3s. We discuss the pros and cons of using various markers for ILC3 identification. Furthermore, we consider the possibilities for the efficient isolation and propagation of ILC3 from different organs and tissues for in-vitro and in-vivo studies. This paper calls upon uniformity in ILC3 definition, isolation, and propagation for the increased possibility of confluent interpretation of ILC3's role in immunity.

Screening compounds for treating the diabetes and COVID-19 from Miao medicine by molecular docking and bioinformatics

Both diabetes and Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) are seriously harmful to human health, and they are closely related. It is of great significance to find drugs that can simultaneously treat diabetes and COVID-19. Based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine for treating COVID-19, this study first sorted out the compounds of Guizhou Miao medicine with "return to the lung channel" and "clear heat and detoxify" effects in China. The active components against COVID-19 were screened by molecular docking with SARS-CoV-2 PLpro and angiotensin-converting enzyme II as targets. Furthermore, the common target dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) of diabetes and COVID-19 was used as a screening protein, and molecular docking was used to obtain potential components for the treatment of diabetes and COVID-19. Finally, the mechanism of potential ingredients in the treatment of diabetes and COVID-19 was explored with bioinformatics. More than 80 kinds of Miao medicine were obtained, and 584 compounds were obtained. Further, 110 compounds against COVID-19 were screened, and top 6 potential ingredients for the treatment of diabetes and COVID-19 were screened, including 3-O-β-D-Xylopyranosyl-(1-6)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-6)-β-D-glucopyranosyl oleanolic acid 28-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl ester, Glycyrrhizic acid, Sequoiaflavone, 2-O-Caffeoyl maslinic acid, Pholidotin, and Ambewelamide A. Bioinformatics analysis found that their mechanism of action in treating diabetes and COVID-19 may be related to regulating the expression of DPP4, angiotensin II type 1 receptor, vitamin D receptor, plasminogen, chemokine C-C-motif receptor 6, and interleukin 2. We believe that Guizhou Miao medicine is rich in potential ingredients for the treatment of diabetes and COVID-19.

The cryptic role of CXCL17/CXCR8 axis in the pathogenesis of cancers: a review of the latest evidence

Chemokines are immune system mediators that mediate various activities and play a role in the pathogenesis of several cancers. Among these chemokines, C-X-C motif chemokine 17 (CXCL-17) is a relatively novel molecule produced along the airway epithelium in physiological and pathological conditions, and evidence shows that it plays a homeostatic role in most cases. CXCL17 has a protective role in some cancers and a pathological role in others, such as liver and lung cancer. This chemokine, along with its possible receptor termed G protein-coupled receptor 35 (GPR35) or CXCR8, are involved in recruiting myeloid cells, regulating angiogenesis, defending against pathogenic microorganisms, and numerous other mechanisms. Considering the few studies that have been performed on the dual role of CXCL17 in human malignancies, this review has investigated the possible pro-tumor and anti-tumor roles of this chemokine, as well as future treatment options in cancer therapy.

Human CCR6+ Th Cells Show Both an Extended Stable Gradient of Th17 Activity and Imprinted Plasticity

Th17 cells have been investigated in mice primarily for their contributions to autoimmune diseases. However, the pathways of differentiation of Th17 and related Th cells (type 17 cells) and the structure of the type 17 memory population in humans are not well understood; such understanding is critical for manipulating these cells in vivo. By exploiting differences in levels of surface CCR6, we found that human type 17 memory cells, including individual T cell clonotypes, form an elongated continuum of type 17 character along which cells can be driven by increasing RORγt. This continuum includes cells preserved within the memory pool with potentials that reflect the early preferential activation of multiple over single lineages. The phenotypes and epigenomes of CCR6+ cells are stable across cell divisions under noninflammatory conditions. Nonetheless, activation in polarizing and nonpolarizing conditions can yield additional functionalities, revealing, respectively, both environmentally induced and imprinted mechanisms that contribute differentially across the type 17 continuum to yield the unusual plasticity ascribed to type 17 cells.

Host Immunity to Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection Is Similar in Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV)-Infected, Antiretroviral Therapy-Treated and SIV-Naïve Juvenile Macaques

Pre-existing HIV infection increases tuberculosis (TB) risk in children. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces, but does not abolish, this risk in children with HIV. The immunologic mechanisms involved in TB progression in both HIV-naive and HIV-infected children have not been explored. Much of our current understanding is based on human studies in adults and adult animal models. In this study, we sought to model childhood HIV/Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) coinfection in the setting of ART and characterize T cells during TB progression. Macaques equivalent to 4 to 8 year-old children were intravenously infected with SIVmac239M, treated with ART 3 months later, and coinfected with Mtb 3 months after initiating ART. SIV-naive macaques were similarly infected with Mtb alone. TB pathology and total Mtb burden did not differ between SIV-infected, ART-treated and SIV-naive macaques, although lung Mtb burden was lower in SIV-infected, ART-treated macaques. No major differences in frequencies of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and unconventional T cell subsets (Vγ9+ γδ T cells, MAIT cells, and NKT cells) in airways were observed between SIV-infected, ART-treated and SIV-naive macaques over the course of Mtb infection, with the exception of CCR5+ CD4+ and CD8+ T cells which were slightly lower. CD4+ and CD8+ T cell frequencies did not differ in the lung granulomas. Immune checkpoint marker levels were similar, although ki-67 levels in CD8+ T cells were elevated. Thus, ART treatment of juvenile macaques, 3 months after SIV infection, resulted in similar progression of Mtb and T cell responses compared to Mtb in SIV-naive macaques.

The Serum Level of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 and the Expression of CXCR3 of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Brucellosis Patients

Brucella spp. can replicate in human endothelial cells, inducing an inflammatory response with increased expression of chemokines. Although Brucella infects humans, its ability to induce the production of chemokines by lung cells is unknown. Therefore, the current investigation was designed to examine the association between brucellosis and CXCL9, 10, and 11 chemokines. The patient group included 71 patients suffering from Brucella infection and the control group consisted of 50 healthy ranchers from the same geographical area. Serum levels of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 were analyzed by ELISA. The fold changes of CXCR3 expression against β-actin were determined by real-time-PCR technique. Western blotting analysis was also applied for evaluating the expression of CXCR3 at protein level. The results of this study showed that the serum levels of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 are significantly increased in acute brucellosis patients in comparison to control as indicated by ELISA test, mRNA levels of CXCR3 by Real-time PCR as well as protein levels of CXCR3 by Western blot analysis. According to findings, these chemokines have the potential to serve as markers for brucellosis patients. Taken together, cytokine/chemokine network was active in acute brucellosis patients, and it is suggested to evaluate other cytokines in future studies.

Identification of the Binding Epitope of an Anti-Mouse CCR6 Monoclonal Antibody (C6Mab-13) Using 1× Alanine Scanning

CC chemokine receptor 6 (CCR6) is one of the members of the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family that is upregulated in many immune-related cells, such as B lymphocytes, effector and memory T cells, regulatory T cells, and immature dendritic cells. The coordination between CCR6 and its ligand CC motif chemokine ligand 20 (CCL20) is deeply involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases, such as cancer, psoriasis, and autoimmune diseases. Thus, CCR6 is an attractive target for therapy and is being investigated as a diagnostic marker for various diseases. In a previous study, we developed an anti-mouse CCR6 (mCCR6) monoclonal antibody (mAb), C₆Mab-13 (rat IgG₁, kappa), that was applicable for flow cytometry by immunizing a rat with the N-terminal peptide of mCCR6. In this study, we investigated the binding epitope of C₆Mab-13 using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) method, which were conducted with respect to the synthesized point-mutated-peptides within the 1-20 amino acid region of mCCR6. In the ELISA results, C₆Mab-13 lost its ability to react to the alanine-substituted peptide of mCCR6 at Asp11, thereby identifying Asp11 as the epitope of C₆Mab-13. In our SPR analysis, the dissociation constants (K_D) could not be calculated for the G9A and D11A mutants due to the lack of binding. The SPR analysis demonstrated that the C₆Mab-13 epitope comprises Gly9 and Asp11. Taken together, the key binding epitope of C₆Mab-13 was determined to be located around Asp11 on mCCR6. Based on the epitope information, C₆Mab-13 could be useful for further functional analysis of mCCR6 in future studies.

CCR6 as a Potential Target for Therapeutic Antibodies for the Treatment of Inflammatory Diseases

The CC chemokine receptor 6 (CCR6) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) involved in a wide range of biological processes. When CCR6 binds to its sole ligand CCL20, a signaling network is produced. This pathway is implicated in mechanisms related to many diseases, such as cancer, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, HIV infection or rheumatoid arthritis. The CCR6/CCL20 axis plays a fundamental role in immune homeostasis and activation. Th17 cells express the CCR6 receptor and inflammatory cytokines, including IL-17, IL-21 and IL-22, which are involved in the spread of inflammatory response. The CCL20/CCR6 mechanism plays a crucial role in the recruitment of these pro-inflammatory cells to local tissues. To date, there are no drugs against CCR6 approved, and the development of small molecules against CCR6 is complicated due to the difficulty in screenings. This review highlights the potential as a therapeutic target of the CCR6 receptor in numerous diseases and the importance of the development of antibodies against CCR6 that could be a promising alternative to small molecules in the treatment of CCR6/CCL20 axis-related pathologies.

Phenotypic and functional characterization of pharmacologically expanded Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in pigtail macaques

While gaining interest as treatment for cancer and infectious disease, the clinical efficacy of Vγ9Vδ2 T cell-based immunotherapeutics has to date been limited. An improved understanding of γδ T cell heterogeneity across lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissues, before and after pharmacological expansion, is required. Here, we describe the phenotype and tissue distribution of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells at steady state and following in vivo pharmacological expansion in pigtail macaques. Intravenous phosphoantigen administration with subcutaneous rhIL-2 drove robust expansion of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in blood and pulmonary mucosa, while expansion was confined to the pulmonary mucosa following intratracheal antigen administration. Peripheral blood Vγ9Vδ2 T cell expansion was polyclonal, and associated with a significant loss of CCR6 expression due to IL-2-mediated receptor downregulation. Overall, we show the tissue distribution and phenotype of in vivo pharmacologically expanded Vγ9Vδ2 T cells can be altered based on the antigen administration route, with implications for tissue trafficking and the clinical efficacy of Vγ9Vδ2 T cell immunotherapeutics.

Host responses against the fish parasitizing ciliate Cryptocaryon irritans

The parasitic ciliate Cryptocaryon irritans, which infects almost all marine fish species occurring in both tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world. The disease, cryptocaryonosis, accounts for significant economic losses to the aquaculture industry. This review attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of the biology of the parasite, host-parasite interactions and both specific and non-specific host defense mechanisms are responsible for the protection of fish against challenge infections with this ciliate. Also, this article reflects the current interest in this subject area and the quest to develop an available vaccine against the disease. Due to the high frequency of clinical fish cryptocaryonosis, the study of fish immune responses to C. irritans provides an optimal experimental model for understanding immunity against extracellular protozoa.

The Genetic and Immunologic Landscape Underlying the Risk of Malignant Progression in Laryngeal Dysplasia

(1) Background: The development of laryngeal cancer is a multistep process involving structural alterations of the epithelial mucosa, from dysplasia (LDy) to invasive carcinoma. In this study, we define new biomarkers, prognostic for malignant transformation, in patients affected by LDy. (2) Methods: We used targeted next-generation sequencing and immunohistochemical analysis to define the mutational and immunological landscape of 15 laryngeal dysplasia progressing to invasive cancer (progressing dysplasia), as well as 31 cases of laryngeal dysplasia that did not progress to carcinoma (non-progressing dysplasia). Two pathologists independently analyzed the presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in LDy pre-embedded paraffin-fixed specimens. The RNA-based next-generation sequencing panel OIRRA was used to evaluate the expression of 395 genes related to immune system activation. (3) Results: High TILs are significantly correlated with a higher risk of malignant transformation. The non-brisk pattern was significantly associated with an 86% reduced risk of malignant progression (OR = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.03-0.5, p = 0.008). TILs showed a highly positive correlation with CCR6, CD83, HLA-DPB1, MX1 and SNAI1, and they were inversely correlated with CD48, CIITA, CXCR4, FCER1G, IL1B, LST1 and TLR8. (4) Conclusions: TILs have a great potential to identify high-risk progression dysplasia and thus to define surveillance protocols and prevention programs.

Innate lymphoid cells: potential targets for cancer therapeutics

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) comprise a number of different subsets, including natural killer (NK) cells, ILC1s, ILC2s, ILC3s, and lymphoid tissue-inducer (LTi) cells that express receptors and signaling pathways that are highly responsive to continuously changing microenvironmental cues. In this Review, we highlight the key features of innate cells that define their capacity to respond rapidly to different environments, how this ability can drive both tumor protection (limiting tumor development) or, alternatively, tumor progression, promoting tumor dissemination and resistance to immunotherapy. We discuss how understanding the regulation of ILCs that can detect tumor cells early in a response opens the possibility of exploiting this functional plasticity to develop rational therapeutic strategies to bolster adaptive immune responses and improve patient outcomes.

Human CCR6 + Th cells show both an extended stable gradient of Th17 activity and imprinted plasticity

Th17 cells have been investigated in mice primarily for their contributions to autoimmune diseases. However, the pathways of differentiation of Th17 and related (type 17) cells and the structure of the type 17 memory population in humans are not well understood; such understanding is critical for manipulating these cells in vivo . By exploiting differences in levels of surface CCR6, we found that human type 17 memory cells, including individual T cell clonotypes, form an elongated continuum of type 17 character along which cells can be driven by increasing RORγt. This continuum includes cells preserved within the memory pool with potentials that reflect the early preferential activation of multiple over single lineages. The CCR6 ⁺ cells' phenotypes and epigenomes are stable across cell divisions under homeostatic conditions. Nonetheless, activation in polarizing and non-polarizing conditions can yield additional functionalities, revealing, respectively, both environmentally induced and imprinted mechanisms that contribute differentially across the continuum to yield the unusual plasticity ascribed to type 17 cells.

The dynamics of γδ T cell responses in nonhuman primates during SARS-CoV-2 infection

Although most SARS-CoV-2 infections are mild, some patients develop systemic inflammation and progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, the cellular mechanisms underlying this spectrum of disease remain unclear. γδT cells are T lymphocyte subsets that have key roles in systemic and mucosal immune responses during infection and inflammation. Here we show that peripheral γδT cells are rapidly activated following aerosol or intra-tracheal/intra-nasal (IT/IN) SARS-CoV-2 infection in nonhuman primates. Our results demonstrate a rapid expansion of Vδ1 γδT cells at day1 that correlate significantly with lung viral loads during the first week of infection. Furthermore, increase in levels of CCR6 and Granzyme B expression in Vδ1 T cells during viral clearance imply a role in innate-like epithelial barrier-protective and cytotoxic functions. Importantly, the early activation and mobilization of circulating HLA-DR+CXCR3+ γδT cells along with significant correlations of Vδ1 T cells with IL-1Ra and SCF levels in bronchoalveolar lavage suggest a novel role for Vδ1 T cells in regulating lung inflammation during aerosol SARS-CoV-2 infection. A deeper understanding of the immunoregulatory functions of MHC-unrestricted Vδ1 T cells in lungs during early SARS-CoV-2 infection is particularly important in the wake of emerging new variants with increased transmissibility and immune evasion potential.

RORγt agonist enhances anti-PD-1 therapy by promoting monocyte-derived dendritic cells through CXCL10 in cancers

Background

The overall response rate to checkpoint blockade remains unsatisfactory, partially due to the immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment. A retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γt (RORγt) agonist (LYC-55716) is currently used in clinical trials combined with anti-PD-1, but how the Th17 cell transcription factor RORγt enhances antitumor immunity of PD-1 in the tumor microenvironment remains elusive.

Methods

The expression of mRNA was analyzed using qPCR assays. Flow cytometry was used to sort and profile cells. Cell migration was analyzed using Transwell assays. Biacore was used to determine the binding affinity to the RORγt protein. The RORγt GAL4 cell-based reporter gene assay was used to measure activity in the RORγt driven luciferase reporter gene expression.

Results

We designed a potent and selective small-molecule RORγt agonist (8-074) that shows robust antitumor efficacy in syngeneic tumor models and improves the efficacy of anti‑PD‑1 in a murine lung cancer model. RORγt agonist treatment increased intratumoral CD8+ T cells, which were correlated with CXCL10 and monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs). In addition, the RORγt agonist promoted Type 17 T cell migration by upregulating CCL20 and CCR6 expression, and Type 17 T cell tumor infiltration. CCL20 induces MoDCs migration, and CXCL10 derived from MoDCs promotes CD8+ T cell migration.

Conclusion

Our results revealed that the RORγt agonist improved the efficacy of anti-PD-1. The RORγt agonist increased the migration of MoDCs, which increased the local levels of CXCL10, thus promoting CD8+ T cell tumor infiltration. Our findings provide the mechanistic insights implicating the RORγt agonist in immunotherapy and offer a strategy for targeting the RORγt agonist to improve PD-1 antibody efficacy in cancers.

Anti-mesothelin immunotoxin induces mesothelioma eradication, anti-tumor immunity, and the development of tertiary lymphoid structures

LMB-100 is a recombinant immunotoxin composed of a Fab linked to a toxin. It kills cells expressing human mesothelin (hMSLN), which is highly expressed on the surface of mesothelioma and many other cancer cells. Clinically, we observed some patients had delayed responses to an anti-hMSLN immunotoxin treatment, suggesting the induction of anti-tumor immunity. We aimed to develop a mouse model to investigate whether immunotoxin alone can induce anti-tumor immunity and to study the mechanism of this immunity. An immunocompetent transgenic mouse was used to grow mouse mesothelioma AB1 cells expressing hMSLN in the peritoneal cavity. Mice were treated with LMB-100, and mice with complete responses (CRs) were rechallenged with tumor cells to determine whether anti-tumor immunity developed. Changes in gene expression profiles were evaluated by Nanostring, and changes in cytokines and chemokines were checked by protein arrays. The distribution of various immune cells was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Our results show that the mice with tumor reached CRs and developed anti-tumor immunity after LMB-100 treatment alone. The primary response requires CD8⁺ T cells, CD4⁺ T cells, and B cells. Transcriptional profiling shows that LMB-100 treatment reshapes the tumor immune microenvironment by upregulating chemotaxis signals. LMB-100 treatment upregulates genes associated with tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) development and induces TLS formation in tumors. In sum, immunotoxin-mediated cell death induces anti-tumor immunity and the development of TLS, which provides insights into how immunotoxins cause tumor regressions.

Screening of ulcerative colitis biomarkers and potential pathways based on weighted gene co-expression network, machine learning and ceRNA hypothesis

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) refers to an intractable intestinal inflammatory disease. Its increasing incidence rate imposes a huge burden on patients and society. The UC etiology has not been determined, so screening potential biomarkers is critical to preventing disease progression and selecting optimal therapeutic strategies more effectively.

METHODS

The microarray datasets of intestinal mucosal biopsy of UC patients were selected from the GEO database, and integrated with R language to screen differentially expressed genes and draw proteins interaction network diagrams. GO, KEGG, DO and GSEA enrichment analyses were performed to explore their biological functions. Through machine learning and WGCNA analysis, targets that can be used as UC potential biomarkers are screened out. ROC curves were drawn to verify the reliability of the results and predicted the mechanism of marker genes from the aspects of immune cell infiltration, co-expression analysis, and competitive endogenous network (ceRNA).

RESULTS

Two datasets GSE75214 and GSE87466 were integrated for screening, and a total of 107 differentially expressed genes were obtained. They were mainly related to biological functions such as humoral immune response and inflammatory response. Further screened out five marker genes, and found that they were associated with M0 macrophages, quiescent mast cells, M2 macrophages, and activated NK cells in terms of immune cell infiltration. The co-expression network found significant co-expression relationships between 54 miRNAs and 5 marker genes. According to the ceRNA hypothesis, NEAT1-miR-342-3p/miR-650-SLC6A14, NEAT1-miR-650-IRAK3, and XIST-miR-342-3p-IRAK3 axes were found as potential regulatory pathways in UC.

CONCLUSION

This study screened out five biomarkers that can be used for the diagnosis and treatment of UC, namely SLC6A14, TIMP1, IRAK3, HMGCS2, and APOBEC3B. Confirmed that they play a role in the occurrence and development of UC at the level of immune infiltration, and proposed a potential RNA regulatory pathway that controls the progression of UC.

Immune defenses of the mammary gland epithelium of dairy ruminants

The epithelium of the mammary gland (MG) fulfills three major functions: nutrition of progeny, transfer of immunity from mother to newborn, and its own defense against infection. The defense function of the epithelium requires the cooperation of mammary epithelial cells (MECs) with intraepithelial leucocytes, macrophages, DCs, and resident lymphocytes. The MG is characterized by the secretion of a large amount of a nutrient liquid in which certain bacteria can proliferate and reach a considerable bacterial load, which has conditioned how the udder reacts against bacterial invasions. This review presents how the mammary epithelium perceives bacteria, and how it responds to the main bacterial genera associated with mastitis. MECs are able to detect the presence of actively multiplying bacteria in the lumen of the gland: they express pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that recognize microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) released by the growing bacteria. Interactions with intraepithelial leucocytes fine-tune MECs responses. Following the onset of inflammation, new interactions are established with lymphocytes and neutrophils recruited from the blood. The mammary epithelium also identifies and responds to antigens, which supposes an antigen-presenting capacity. Its responses can be manipulated with drugs, plant extracts, probiotics, and immune modifiers, in order to increase its defense capacities or reduce the damage related to inflammation. Numerous studies have established that the mammary epithelium is a genuine effector of both innate and adaptive immunity. However, knowledge gaps remain and newly available tools offer the prospect of exciting research to unravel and exploit the multiple capacities of this particular epithelium.

IL-15 Superagonist N-803 Enhances IFN-γ Production of MAIT Cells in SIV+ Macaques

Mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are innate T cells that recognize bacterial metabolites and secrete cytokines and cytolytic enzymes to destroy infected target cells. This makes MAIT cells promising targets for immunotherapy to combat bacterial infections. Here, we analyzed the effects of an immunotherapeutic agent, the IL-15 superagonist N-803, on MAIT cell activation, trafficking, and cytolytic function in macaques. We found that N-803 could activate MAIT cells in vitro and increase their ability to produce IFN-γ in response to bacterial stimulation. To expand upon this, we examined the phenotypes and functions of MAIT cells present in samples collected from PBMC, airways (bronchoalveolar lavage [BAL] fluid), and lymph nodes (LN) from rhesus macaques that were treated in vivo with N-803. N-803 treatment led to a transient 6 to 7-fold decrease in the total number of MAIT cells in the peripheral blood, relative to pre N-803 time points. Concurrent with the decrease in cells in the peripheral blood, we observed a rapid decline in the frequency of CXCR3⁺CCR6⁺ MAITs. This corresponded with an increase in the frequency of CCR6⁺ MAITs in the BAL fluid, and higher frequencies of ki-67⁺ and granzyme B⁺ MAITs in the blood, LN, and BAL fluid. Finally, N-803 improved the ability of MAIT cells collected from PBMC and airways to produce IFN-γ in response to bacterial stimulation. Overall, N-803 shows the potential to transiently alter the phenotypes and functions of MAIT cells, which could be combined with other strategies to combat bacterial infections.

New insights into human immune memory from SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination

Since early 2020, the world has been embroiled in an ongoing viral pandemic with SARS-CoV-2 and emerging variants resulting in mass morbidity and an estimated 6 million deaths globally. The scientific community pivoted rapidly, providing unique and innovative means to identify infected individuals, technologies to evaluate immune responses to infection and vaccination, and new therapeutic strategies to treat infected individuals. Never before has immunology been so critically at the forefront of combatting a global pandemic. It has now become evident that not just antibody responses, but formation and durability of immune memory cells following vaccination are associated with protection against severe disease from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Furthermore, the emergence of variants of concern (VoC) highlight the need for immunological markers to quantify the protective capacity of Wuhan-based vaccines. Thus, harnessing and modulating the immune response is key to successful vaccination and treatment of disease. We here review the latest knowledge about immune memory generation and durability following natural infection and vaccination, and provide insights into the attributes of immune memory that may protect from emerging variants.

Exploring SARS-CoV2 host-pathogen interactions and associated fungal infections cross-talk: Screening of targets and understanding pathogenesis

The COVID-19 associated opportunistic fungal infections have posed major challenges in recent times. Global scientific efforts have identified several SARS-CoV2 host-pathogen interactions in a very short time span. However, information about the molecular basis of COVID-19 associated opportunistic fungal infections is not readily available. Previous studies have identified a number of host targets involved in these opportunistic fungal infections showing association with COVID-19 patients. We screened host targets involved in COVID-19-associated opportunistic fungal infections, in addition to host-pathogen interaction data of SARS-CoV2 from well-known and widely used biological databases. Venn diagram was prepared to screen common host targets involved in studied COVID-19-associated fungal infections. Moreover, an interaction network of studied disease targets was prepared with STRING to identify important targets on the basis of network biological parameters. The host-pathogen interaction (HPI) map of SARS-CoV2 was also prepared and screened to identify interactions of the virus with targets involved in studied fungal infections. Pathway enrichment analysis of host targets involved in studied opportunistic fungal infections and the subset of those involved in SARS-CoV2 HPI were performed separately. This data-based analysis screened six common targets involved in all studied fungal infections, among which CARD9 and CYP51A1 were involved in host-pathogen interactions with SARS-CoV2. Moreover, several signaling pathways such as integrin signaling were screened, which were associated with disease targets involved in SARS-CoV2 HPI. The results of this study indicate several host targets deserving detailed investigation to develop strategies for the management of SARS-CoV2-associated fungal infections.

Global Transcriptomic Profiling Identifies Differential Gene Expression Signatures Between Inflammatory and Noninflammatory Aortic Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

To identify hallmark genes and biomolecular processes in aortitis using high-throughput gene expression profiling, and to provide a range of potentially new drug targets (genes) and therapeutics from a pharmacogenomic network analysis.

METHODS

Bulk RNA sequencing was performed on surgically resected ascending aortic tissues from inflammatory aneurysms (giant cell arteritis [GCA] with or without polymyalgia rheumatica, n = 8; clinically isolated aortitis [CIA], n = 17) and noninflammatory aneurysms (n = 25) undergoing surgical aortic repair. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the 2 patient groups were identified while controlling for clinical covariates. A protein-protein interaction model, drug-gene target information, and the DEGs were used to construct a pharmacogenomic network for identifying promising drug targets and potentially new treatment strategies in aortitis.

RESULTS

Overall, tissue gene expression patterns were the most associated with disease state than with any other clinical characteristic. We identified 159 and 93 genes that were significantly up-regulated and down-regulated, respectively, in inflammatory aortic aneurysms compared to noninflammatory aortic aneurysms. We found that the up-regulated genes were enriched in immune-related functions, whereas the down-regulated genes were enriched in neuronal processes. Notably, gene expression profiles of inflammatory aortic aneurysms from patients with GCA were no different than those from patients with CIA. Finally, our pharmacogenomic network analysis identified genes that could potentially be targeted by immunosuppressive drugs currently approved for other inflammatory diseases.

CONCLUSION

We performed the first global transcriptomics analysis in inflammatory aortic aneurysms from surgically resected aortic tissues. We identified signature genes and biomolecular processes, while finding that CIA may be a limited presentation of GCA. Moreover, our computational network analysis revealed potential novel strategies for pharmacologic interventions and suggests future biomarker discovery directions for the precise diagnosis and treatment of aortitis.

Blood-brain barrier: emerging trends on transport models and new-age strategies for therapeutics intervention against neurological disorders

The integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is essential for normal central nervous system (CNS) functioning. Considering the significance of BBB in maintaining homeostasis and the neural environment, we aim to provide an overview of significant aspects of BBB. Worldwide, the treatment of neurological diseases caused by BBB disruption has been a major challenge. BBB also restricts entry of neuro-therapeutic drugs and hinders treatment modalities. Hence, currently nanotechnology-based approaches are being explored on large scale as alternatives to conventional methodologies. It is necessary to investigate the in-depth characteristic features of BBB to facilitate the discovery of novel drugs that can successfully cross the barrier and target the disease effectively. It is imperative to discover novel strategies to treat life-threatening CNS diseases in humans. Therefore, insights regarding building blocks of BBB, activation of immune response on breach of this barrier, and various autoimmune neurological disorders caused due to BBB dysfunction are discussed. Further, special emphasis is given on delineating BBB disruption leading to CNS disorders. Moreover, various mechanisms of transport pathways across BBB, several novel strategies, and alternative routes by which drugs can be properly delivered into CNS are also discussed.

Recombinant Porphyromonas gingivalis W83 FimA alters immune response and metabolic gene expression in oral squamous carcinoma cells

Objectives

The Gram‐negative anaerobic rod Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) is regarded as a keystone pathogen in periodontitis and expresses a multitude of virulence factors iincluding fimbriae that are enabling adherence to and invasion in cells and tissues. The progression of periodontitis is a consequence of the interaction between the host immune response and periodontal pathogens. The aim of this study was to investigate the genome‐wide impact of recombinant fimbrial protein FimA from P. gingivalis W83 on the gene expression of oral squamous carcinoma cells by transcriptome analysis.

Materials and Methods

Human squamous cell carcinoma cells (SCC‐25) were stimulated for 4 and 24 h with recombinant FimA. RNA sequencing was performed and differential gene expression and enrichment were analyzed using gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and REACTOME. The results of transcriptome analysis were validated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with selected genes.

Results

Differential gene expression after 4 and 24 h revealed upregulation of 464 (4 h) and 179 genes (24 h) and downregulation of 69 (4 h) and 312 (24 h) genes. GO, KEGG, and REACTONE enrichment analysis identified a strong immunologic transcriptomic response signature after 4 h. After 24 h, mainly those genes were regulated, which belonged to cell metabolic pathways and replication. Real‐time PCR of selected genes belonging to immune response and signaling demonstrated strong upregulation of CCL20, TNFAIP6, CXCL8, TNFAIP3, and NFkBIA after both stimulation times.

Conclusions

These data shed light on the RNA transcriptome of human oral squamous carcinoma epithelial cells following stimulation with P. gingivalis FimA and identify a strong immunological gene expression response to this virulence factor. The data provide a base for future studies of molecular and cellular interactions between P. gingivalis and oral epithelium to elucidate basic mechanisms that may provide new prospects for periodontitis therapy and give new insights into the development and possible treatments of cancer.

Navigating the complexity of chronic HIV-1 associated immune dysregulation

Despite successful viral suppression with antiretroviral therapy, chronic HIV-1 infection is associated with ongoing immune dysfunction. Investigation of the complex immune response in treated and untreated individuals with chronic HIV-1 infection is warranted. Immune alterations such as monocyte phenotype and Th-17/Treg ratios often persist years after the reduction in viraemia and predispose many individuals to long-term comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease or cancer. Furthermore, while there has been extensive research on the latent reservoir of treated patients with chronic HIV-1, which prevents the discontinuation of treatment, the mechanism behind this remains elusive and needs further investigation. In this review, we assist in navigating the recent research on these groups of individuals and provide a basis for further investigation.

Role of Respiratory Epithelial Cells in Allergic Diseases

The airway epithelium provides the first line of defense to the surrounding environment. However, dysfunctions of this physical barrier are frequently observed in allergic diseases, which are tightly connected with pro- or anti-inflammatory processes. When the epithelial cells are confronted with allergens or pathogens, specific response mechanisms are set in motion, which in homeostasis, lead to the elimination of the invaders and leave permanent traces on the respiratory epithelium. However, allergens can also cause damage in the sensitized organism, which can be ascribed to the excessive immune reactions. The tight interaction of epithelial cells of the upper and lower airways with local and systemic immune cells can leave an imprint that may mirror the pathophysiology. The interaction with effector T cells, along with the macrophages, play an important role in this response, as reflected in the gene expression profiles (transcriptomes) of the epithelial cells, as well as in the secretory pattern (secretomes). Further, the storage of information from past exposures as memories within discrete cell types may allow a tissue to inform and fundamentally alter its future responses. Recently, several lines of evidence have highlighted the contributions from myeloid cells, lymphoid cells, stromal cells, mast cells, and epithelial cells to the emerging concepts of inflammatory memory and trained immunity.

Activation of NLRP3 Inflammasome by Virus-Like Particles of Human Polyomaviruses in Macrophages

Viral antigens can activate phagocytes, inducing inflammation, but the mechanisms are barely explored. The aim of this study is to investigate how viral oligomeric proteins of different structures induce inflammatory response in macrophages. Human THP-1 cell line was used to prepare macrophages that were treated with filamentous nucleocapsid-like particles (NLPs) of paramyxoviruses and spherical virus-like particles (VLPs) of human polyomaviruses. The effects of viral proteins on cell viability, pro-inflammatory cytokines’ production, and NLRP3 inflammasome activation were investigated. Filamentous NLPs did not induce inflammation while spherical VLPs mediated inflammatory response followed by NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Inhibitors of cathepsins and K⁺ efflux decreased IL-1β release and cell death, indicating a complex inflammasome activation process. A similar activation pattern was observed in primary human macrophages. Single-cell RNAseq analysis of THP-1 cells revealed several cell activation states different in inflammation-related genes. This study provides new insights into the interaction of viral proteins with immune cells and suggests that structural properties of oligomeric proteins may define cell activation pathways.

The microdissected gene expression landscape of nasopharyngeal cancer reveals vulnerabilities in FGF and noncanonical NF-κB signaling

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive epithelial malignancy with an extensive inflammatory infiltrate. Traditional RNA-sequencing techniques uncovered only microenvironment signatures, while the gene expression of the tumor epithelial compartment has remained a mystery. Here, we use Smart-3SEQ to prepare transcriptome-wide gene expression profiles from microdissected NPC tumors, dysplasia, and normal controls. We describe changes in biological pathways across the normal to tumor spectrum and show that fibroblast growth factor (FGF) ligands are overexpressed in NPC tumors, while negative regulators of FGF signaling, including SPRY1, SPRY2, and LGALS3, are down-regulated early in carcinogenesis. Within the NF-κB signaling pathway, the critical noncanonical transcription factors, RELB and NFKB2, are enriched in the majority of NPC tumors. We confirm the responsiveness of EBV-positive NPC cell lines to targeted inhibition of these pathways, reflecting the heterogeneity in NPC patient tumors. Our data comprehensively describe the gene expression landscape of NPC and unravel the mysteries of receptor tyrosine kinase and NF-κB pathways in NPC.

Porphyromonas gingivalis W83 Membrane Components Induce Distinct Profiles of Metabolic Genes in Oral Squamous Carcinoma Cells

Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease is caused by a bacterial biofilm, affecting all periodontal tissues and structures. This chronic disease seems to be associated with cancer since, in general, inflammation intensifies the risk for carcinoma development and progression. Interactions between periodontal pathogens and the host immune response induce the onset of periodontitis and are responsible for its progression, among them Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), a Gram-negative anaerobic rod, capable of expressing a variety of virulence factors that is considered a keystone pathogen in periodontal biofilms. The aim of this study was to investigate the genome-wide impact of P. gingivalis W83 membranes on RNA expression of oral squamous carcinoma cells by transcriptome analysis. Human squamous cell carcinoma cells (SCC-25) were infected for 4 and 24 h with extracts from P. gingivalis W83 membrane, harvested, and RNA was extracted. RNA sequencing was performed, and differential gene expression and enrichment were analyzed using GO, KEGG, and REACTOME. The results of transcriptome analysis were validated using quantitative real-time PCR with selected genes. Differential gene expression analysis resulted in the upregulation of 15 genes and downregulation of 1 gene after 4 h. After 24 h, 61 genes were upregulated and 278 downregulated. GO, KEGG, and REACTONE enrichment analysis revealed a strong metabolic transcriptomic response signature, demonstrating altered gene expressions after 4 h and 24 h that mainly belong to cell metabolic pathways and replication. Real-time PCR of selected genes belonging to immune response, signaling, and metabolism revealed upregulated expression of CCL20, CXCL8, NFkBIA, TNFAIP3, TRAF5, CYP1A1, and NOD2. This work sheds light on the RNA transcriptome of human oral squamous carcinoma cells following stimulation with P. gingivalis membranes and identifies a strong metabolic gene expression response to this periodontal pathogen. The data provide a base for future studies of molecular and cellular interactions between P. gingivalis and oral epithelium to elucidate the basic mechanisms of periodontitis and the development of cancer.

NK Cells and Innate-Like T Cells After Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, in which autoreactive T and B cells play important roles. Other lymphocytes such as NK cells and innate-like T cells appear to be involved as well. To name a few examples, CD56^bright NK cells were described as an immunoregulatory NK cell subset in MS while innate-like T cells in MS were described in brain lesions and with proinflammatory signatures. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) is a procedure used to treat MS. This procedure includes hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) mobilization, then high-dose chemotherapy combined with anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) and subsequent infusion of the patients own HSPCs to reconstitute a functional immune system. aHSCT inhibits MS disease activity very effectively and for long time, presumably due to elimination of autoreactive T cells. Here, we performed multidimensional flow cytometry experiments in peripheral blood lymphocytes of 27 MS patients before and after aHSCT to address its potential influence on NK and innate-like T cells. After aHSCT, the relative frequency and absolute numbers of CD56^bright NK cells rise above pre-aHSCT levels while all studied innate-like T cell populations decrease. Hence, our data support an enhanced immune regulation by CD56^bright NK cells and the efficient reduction of proinflammatory innate-like T cells by aHSCT in MS. These observations contribute to our current understanding of the immunological effects of aHSCT in MS.

Th17 CD4+ T-Cell as a Preferential Target for HIV Reservoirs

Among CD4+ T-cells, T helper 17 (Th17) cells play a sentinel role in the defense against bacterial/fungal pathogens at mucosal barriers. However, Th17 cells are also highly susceptible to HIV-1 infection and are rapidly depleted from gut mucosal sites, causing an imbalance of the Th17/Treg ratio and impairing cytokines production. Consequently, damage to the gut mucosal barrier leads to an enhanced microbial translocation and systemic inflammation, a hallmark of HIV-1 disease progression. Th17 cells’ expression of mucosal homing receptors (CCR6 and α4β7), as well as HIV receptors and co-receptors (CD4, α4β7, CCR5, and CXCR4), contributes to susceptibility to HIV infection. The up-regulation of numerous intracellular factors facilitating HIV production, alongside the downregulation of factors inhibiting HIV, helps to explain the frequency of HIV DNA within Th17 cells. Th17 cells harbor long-lived viral reservoirs in people living with HIV (PLWH) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Moreover, cell longevity and the proliferation of a fraction of Th17 CD4 T cells allow HIV reservoirs to be maintained in ART patients.

Integrated miRNA/cytokine/chemokine profiling reveals severity-associated step changes and principal correlates of fatality in COVID-19

Inflammatory cytokines and chemokines (CC) drive COVID-19 pathology. Yet, patients with similar circulating CC levels present with different disease severity. Here, we determined 171 microRNAomes from 58 hospitalized COVID-19 patients (Cohort 1) and levels of 25 cytokines and chemokines (CC) in the same samples. Combining microRNA (miRNA) and CC measurements allowed for discrimination of severe cases with greater accuracy than using miRNA or CC levels alone. Severity group-specific associations between miRNAs and COVID-19-associated CC (e.g., IL6, CCL20) or clinical hallmarks of COVID-19 (e.g., neutrophilia, hypoalbuminemia) separated patients with similar CC levels but different disease severity. Analysis of an independent cohort of 108 patients from a different center (Cohort 2) demonstrated feasibility of CC/miRNA profiling in leftover hospital blood samples with similar severe disease CC and miRNA profiles, and revealed CCL20, IL6, IL10, and miR-451a as key correlates of fatal COVID-19. These findings highlight that systemic miRNA/CC networks underpin severe COVID-19.

The therapeutic effects of Bombyx mori sericin on rat skin psoriasis through modulated epidermal immunity and attenuated cell proliferation

Background and aim

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that leads to chronic inflammation and keratinocyte hyperproliferation. Sericin extracted from Bombyx mori cocoon has been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties, which makes it a viable candidate for psoriasis treatment. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of sericin on skin psoriasis at the cellular level.

Experimental procedure

Imiquimod-induced skin psoriasis was established in Sprague-Dawley rats. The rats with psoriasis were divided into 6 groups (n = 5), namely, one nontreatment control group and five groups that received different treatments: sericin (2.5%, 5%, and 10%), 0.1% betamethasone, 3 μg/ml calcitriol. The treatments were administered twice daily for 7 days, followed by skin sample collection. Epidermal improvement and protein expression were evaluated using histopathological and label-free proteomic approaches and immunohistochemistry.

Results and conclusion

Compared with other concentrations, 10% sericin had the desired effect of improving skin psoriasis as shown by reduced epidermal thickness, similar to the effects of betamethasone and calcitriol treatments. Anti-inflammatory activity was shown by decreased C–C motif chemokine 20 (CCL20) expression posttreatment. Proteomic observation revealed that sericin reduced cytokine production by Th17 cells by interfering with the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Sericin treatment also resulted in a modulated immune response via upregulation of Galectin-3 (Lgals3) and downregulation of Sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase1 (Sgpl1). Sericin improved epithelial cell proliferation by upregulating Nucleoside diphosphate kinase B (Nme2). Therefore, the therapeutic effect of sericin on psoriasis correlated with a reduced immune response and attenuated epidermal proliferation, making sericin a promising approach for skin psoriasis treatment.

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Sericin extracted from Bombyx mori cocoon ameliorates skin psoriasis.

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Sericin modulated immune response and epithelial cell proliferation in skin-psoriasis rat model.

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Sericin upregulated Lgals3 and downregulated Sgpl1 in immune system.

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Downregulated Nme2 of skin psoriasis by sericin treatment reduces epithelial cell proliferation.

Optical biosensing of markers of mucosal inflammation

We report the design and adaptation of iron/iron oxide nanoparticle-based optical nanobiosensors for enzymes or cytokine/chemokines that are established biomarkers of lung diseases. These biomarkers comprise ADAM33, granzyme B, MMP-8, neutrophil elastase, arginase, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 20 and interleukin-6. The synthesis of nanobiosensors for these seven biomarkers, their calibration with commercially available enzymes and cytokines/chemokines, as well as their validation using bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) obtained from a mouse model of TLR3-mediated inflammation are discussed here. Exhaled Breath Condensate (EBC) is a minimally invasive approach for sampling airway fluid in the diagnosis and management of various lung diseases in humans (e.g., asthma, COPD and viral infections). We report the proof-of-concept of using human EBC in conjunction with nanobiosensors for diagnosis/monitoring airway inflammation. These findings suggest that, with nanosensor technology, human EBC can be utilized as a liquid biopsy to monitor inflammation/remodeling in lung disease.

When Immunity Kills: The Lessons of SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak

Since its emergence at the end of 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has spread worldwide at a very rapid pace. While most infected individuals have an asymptomatic or mild disease, a minority, mainly the elderly, develop a severe disease that may lead to a fatal acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS results from a highly inflammatory immunopathology process that includes systemic manifestations and massive alveolar damages that impair gas exchange. The present review summarizes our current knowledge in the rapidly evolving field of SARS-CoV-2 immunopathology, emphasizing the role of specific T cell responses. Indeed, accumulating evidence suggest that while T-cell response directed against SARS-CoV-2 likely plays a crucial role in virus clearance, it may also participate in the immunopathology process that leads to ARDS.

Necrotizing enterocolitis and the gut-lung axis

The recently recognized connection between the gut microbiota and pulmonary disease has been termed the gut-lung axis. However, broader connections link the gut and the lungs and these organ systems are tightly interrelated in both homeostasis and disease. This concept is often ignored in the compartmentalized treatment of pulmonary or gastrointestinal disease. In newborns, the most severe gastrointestinal complication of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis, and the most severe pulmonary complication, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, both produce significant systemic morbidity. In this review, we highlight the often neglected pathophysiology of the gut-lung axis contributes to increased risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants with necrotizing enterocolitis.