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Bongers KS, Massett A, O'Dwyer DN. The Oral-Lung Microbiome Axis in Connective Tissue Disease-Related Interstitial Lung Disease. Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2024; 45:449-458. [PMID: 38626906 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1785673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) is a frequent and serious complication of CTD, leading to high morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, its pathogenesis remains poorly understood; however, one intriguing contributing factor may be the microbiome of the mouth and lungs. The oral microbiome, which is a major source of the lung microbiome through recurrent microaspiration, is altered in ILD patients. Moreover, in recent years, several lines of evidence suggest that changes in the oral and lung microbiota modulate the pulmonary immune response and thus may play a role in the pathogenesis of ILDs, including CTD-ILD. Here, we review the existing data demonstrating oral and lung microbiota dysbiosis and possible contributions to the development of CTD-ILD in rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, systemic sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. We identify several areas of opportunity for future investigations into the role of the oral and lung microbiota in CTD-ILD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kale S Bongers
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Angeline Massett
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - David N O'Dwyer
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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2
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D’Anna SE, Vitale AM, D’Amico G, Caruso Bavisotto C, Ambrosino P, Cappello F, Maniscalco M, Marino Gammazza A. Autoimmunity against Nucleus Ambiguous Is Putatively Possible in Both Long-COVID-19 and Vaccinated Subjects: Scientific Evidence and Working Hypothesis. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:359. [PMID: 38927239 PMCID: PMC11200469 DOI: 10.3390/biology13060359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
As reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10-20% of people have experienced mid- to long-term effects following SARS-CoV-2 infection, collectively referred to as post-COVID-19 condition or long-COVID, including some neurovegetative symptoms. Numerous findings have suggested that the onset of these neurovegetative symptoms upon viral infection may be caused by the production of autoantibodies through molecular mimicry phenomena. Accordingly, we had previously demonstrated that 22 of the human proteins sharing putatively immunogenic peptides with SARS-CoV-2 proteins are expressed in the dorsal motor nucleus and nucleus ambiguous. Therefore, if molecular mimicry occurs following severe forms of COVID-19, there could be transitory or permanent damage in some vagal structures, resulting in a lower vagal tone and all the related clinical signs. We investigated the presence of autoantibodies against two proteins of vagal nuclei sharing a peptide with SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein using an immunoassay test on blood obtained from patients with cardiorespiratory symptoms in patients affected by ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 (long-COVID), subjects vaccinated without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and subjects not vaccinated without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Interestingly, putative autoantibodies were present in both long-COVID-19 and vaccinated groups, opening interesting questions about pathogenic mechanisms of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Maria Vitale
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.V.); (G.D.); (C.C.B.); (F.C.)
| | - Giuseppa D’Amico
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.V.); (G.D.); (C.C.B.); (F.C.)
| | - Celeste Caruso Bavisotto
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.V.); (G.D.); (C.C.B.); (F.C.)
- Euro-Mediterranean Institute of Science and Technology (IEMEST), 90139 Palermo, Italy
| | - Pasquale Ambrosino
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.E.D.); (P.A.)
| | - Francesco Cappello
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.V.); (G.D.); (C.C.B.); (F.C.)
- Euro-Mediterranean Institute of Science and Technology (IEMEST), 90139 Palermo, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mauro Maniscalco
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.E.D.); (P.A.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Marino Gammazza
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.V.); (G.D.); (C.C.B.); (F.C.)
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Bruhn M, Spatz M, Kalinke U. MORITS: An improved method to predict peptides from heterologous proteins that are recognized by the same T-cell receptor. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8255. [PMID: 38589549 PMCID: PMC11002005 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58350-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Antigen-specific priming of T cells results in the activation of T cells that exert effector functions by interaction of their T-cell receptor (TCR) with the corresponding self-MHC molecule presenting a peptide on the surface of a target cell. Such antigen-specific T cells potentially can also interact with peptide-MHC complexes that contain peptides from unrelated antigens, a phenomenon that often is referred to as heterologous immunity. For example, some individuals that were pre-immunized against an allergen, could subsequently mount better anti-viral T-cell responses than non-allergic individuals. So far only few peptide pairs that experimentally have been shown to provoke heterologous immunity were identified, and available prediction tools that can identify potential candidates are imprecise. We developed the MORITS algorithm to rapidly screen large lists of peptides for sequence similarities, while giving enhanced consideration to peptide residues presented by MHC that are particularly relevant for TCR interactions. In combination with established peptide-MHC binding prediction tools, the MORITS algorithm revealed peptide similarities between the SARS-CoV-2 proteome and certain allergens. The method outperformed previously published workflows and may help to identify novel pairs of peptides that mediate heterologous immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Bruhn
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Moritz Spatz
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Kalinke
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence RESIST (EXC 2155), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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4
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Yang Y, Hong Q, Zhang X, Liu Z. Rheumatoid arthritis and the intestinal microbiome: probiotics as a potential therapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1331486. [PMID: 38510244 PMCID: PMC10950920 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1331486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by swollen joints, discomfort, stiffness, osteoporosis, and reduced functionality. Genetics, smoking, dust inhalation, high BMI, and hormonal and gut microbiota dysbiosis are all likely causes of the onset or development of RA, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Compared to healthy controls, patients with RA have a significantly different composition of gut microbiota. It is well known that the human gut microbiota plays a key role in the initiation, maintenance, and operation of the host immune system. Gut microbiota dysbiosis has local or systematic adverse effects on the host immune system, resulting in host susceptibility to various diseases, including RA. Studies on the intestinal microbiota modulation and immunomodulatory properties of probiotics have been reported, in order to identify their potential possibility in prevention and disease activity control of RA. This review summarized current studies on the role and potential mechanisms of gut microbiota in the development and progression of RA, as well as the preventative and therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms of probiotics on RA. Additionally, we proposed the challenges and difficulties in the application of probiotics in RA, providing the direction for the research and application of probiotics in the prevention of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Dairy Biotechnology, Dairy Research Institute, Bright Dairy & Food Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Dairy Biotechnology, Dairy Research Institute, Bright Dairy & Food Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenmin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Dairy Biotechnology, Dairy Research Institute, Bright Dairy & Food Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
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Grama A, Mititelu A, Sîrbe C, Benţa G, Pop TL. Immune-mediated cholangiopathies in children: the need to better understand the pathophysiology for finding the future possible treatment targets. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1206025. [PMID: 37928553 PMCID: PMC10623351 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1206025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiopathies are defined as focal or extensive damage of the bile ducts. According to the pathogenetic mechanism, it may be immune-mediated or due to genetic, infectious, toxic, vascular, and obstructive causes. Their chronic evolution is characterized by inflammation, obstruction of bile flow, cholangiocyte proliferation, and progression toward fibrosis and cirrhosis. Immune-mediated cholangiopathies comprise primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), autoimmune cholangitis and IgG4-associated cholangitis in adults and biliary atresia (BA), neonatal sclerosing cholangitis (NSC) in children. The main purpose of this narrative review was to highlight the similarities and differences among immune-mediated cholangiopathies, especially those frequent in children in which cholangiocyte senescence plays a key role (BA, NSC, and PSC). These three entities have many similarities in terms of clinical and histopathological manifestations, and the distinction between them can be hard to achieve. In BA, bile duct destruction occurs due to aggression of the biliary cells due to viral infections or toxins during the intrauterine period or immediately after birth. The consequence is the activation of the immune system leading to severe inflammation and fibrosis of the extrahepatic biliary tract, lumen stenosis, and impairment of the biliary flow. PSC is characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts, leading to secondary biliary cirrhosis. It is a multifactorial disease that occurs because of genetic predisposition [human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and non-HLA haplotypes], autoimmunity (cellular immune response, autoantibodies, association with inflammatory bowel disease), environmental factors (infections or toxic bile), and host factors (intestinal microbiota). NSC seems to be a distinct subgroup of childhood PSC that appears due to the interaction between genetic predisposition (HLA B8 and DR3) and the disruption of the immune system, validated by elevated IgG levels or specific antibodies [antinuclear antibody (ANA), anti-smooth muscle antibody (ASMA)]. Currently, the exact mechanism of immune cholangiopathy is not fully understood, and further data are required to identify individuals at high risk of developing these conditions. A better understanding of the immune mechanisms and pathophysiology of BA, NSC, and PSC will open new perspectives for future treatments and better methods of preventing severe evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Grama
- 2Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- 2Pediatric Clinic and Center of Expertise in Pediatric Liver Rare Disorders, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandra Mititelu
- 2Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- 2Pediatric Clinic and Center of Expertise in Pediatric Liver Rare Disorders, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Claudia Sîrbe
- 2Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- 2Pediatric Clinic and Center of Expertise in Pediatric Liver Rare Disorders, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gabriel Benţa
- 2Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- 2Pediatric Clinic and Center of Expertise in Pediatric Liver Rare Disorders, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Tudor Lucian Pop
- 2Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- 2Pediatric Clinic and Center of Expertise in Pediatric Liver Rare Disorders, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Rojas M, Herrán M, Ramírez-Santana C, Leung PSC, Anaya JM, Ridgway WM, Gershwin ME. Molecular mimicry and autoimmunity in the time of COVID-19. J Autoimmun 2023; 139:103070. [PMID: 37390745 PMCID: PMC10258587 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2023.103070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases are commonly implicated as potential initiators of autoimmune diseases (ADs) and represent the most commonly known factor in the development of autoimmunity in susceptible individuals. Epidemiological data and animal studies on multiple ADs suggest that molecular mimicry is one of the likely mechanisms for the loss of peripheral tolerance and the development of clinical disease. Besides molecular mimicry, other mechanisms such as defects in central tolerance, nonspecific bystander activation, epitope-determinant spreading, and/or constant antigenic stimuli, may also contribute for breach of tolerance and to the development of ADs. Linear peptide homology is not the only mechanism by which molecular mimicry is established. Peptide modeling (i.e., 3D structure), molecular docking analyses, and affinity estimation for HLAs are emerging as critical strategies when studying the links of molecular mimicry in the development of autoimmunity. In the current pandemic, several reports have confirmed an influence of SARS-CoV-2 on subsequent autoimmunity. Bioinformatic and experimental evidence support the potential role of molecular mimicry. Peptide dimensional analysis requires more research and will be increasingly important for designing and distributing vaccines and better understanding the role of environmental factors related to autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Rojas
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia.
| | - María Herrán
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Carolina Ramírez-Santana
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Patrick S C Leung
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Juan-Manuel Anaya
- Health Research and Innovation Center at Coosalud, Cartagena, 130001, Colombia
| | - William M Ridgway
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - M Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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Ghasemi M, Farazandeh D, Amini B, Sedaghat M, Najafi A, Khayatzadeh Kakhki S, Torabi P, Jafarimehrabady N, Bitaraf A, Shariati H, Gholampour G, Kazemi S, Naser Moghadasi A, Vajihinejad M. The association of upper respiratory infections with neuro-radiological course and attack rate of multiple sclerosis: Results from a large prospective cohort. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2023; 9:20552173231196992. [PMID: 37767104 PMCID: PMC10521289 DOI: 10.1177/20552173231196992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although upper respiratory infections (URIs) are linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) attacks, SARS-COV2 has not been compared to URIs for attack rates. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the attack rate and the results of neuroimaging in MS patients with URIs caused by COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 infections (NC-URI). Methods From May 2020 to April 2021, we followed 362 patients with relapsing-remitting MS in a prospective cohort design. Patients were monitored regularly every 12 weeks; an magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan was performed at enrollment and every time a relapse occurred. Poisson analysis was used to determine exacerbation rate ratios (RR) and the MRI parameters were tested using chi-square analysis. Results 347 patients with an average age of 38 and a female ratio of 86% were included. A RR of 2.24 (p < 0.001) was observed for exacerbations during the at-risk period (ARP). Attacks related to COVID-19 (RR = 2.13, p = 0.001) and NC-URIs (RR = 2.39, p < 0.001) were comparable regarding the increased risk of exacerbation (p = 0.62). Exacerbations within or outside the ARP did not significantly alter the number of baseline GAD-enhancing lesions (p > 0.05 for both). Conclusion COVID-19 has been shown to increase the risk of MS exacerbations, like other viral URIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moein Ghasemi
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Dorreh Farazandeh
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Amini
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Sedaghat
- Faculty of Medicine, Razi Educational and Therapeutic Psychiatric Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Anahita Najafi
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Pouya Torabi
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ali Bitaraf
- School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Golsa Gholampour
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saminnaz Kazemi
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdorreza Naser Moghadasi
- Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Vajihinejad
- Department of Pathology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Miyauchi E, Shimokawa C, Steimle A, Desai MS, Ohno H. The impact of the gut microbiome on extra-intestinal autoimmune diseases. Nat Rev Immunol 2023; 23:9-23. [PMID: 35534624 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-022-00727-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 104.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of autoimmune diseases (ADs) worldwide has rapidly increased over the past few decades. Thus, in addition to the classical risk factors for ADs, such as genetic polymorphisms, infections and smoking, environmental triggers have been considered. Recent sequencing-based approaches have revealed that patients with extra-intestinal ADs, such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes and systemic lupus erythematosus, have distinct gut microbiota compositions compared to healthy controls. Faecal microbiota transplantation or inoculation with specific microbes in animal models of ADs support the hypothesis that alterations of gut microbiota influence autoimmune responses and disease outcome. Here, we describe the compositional and functional changes in the gut microbiota in patients with extra-intestinal AD and discuss how the gut microbiota affects immunity. Moreover, we examine how the gut microbiota might be modulated in patients with ADs as a potential preventive or therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Miyauchi
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Haebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Chikako Shimokawa
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
- Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Infectious Disease, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Alex Steimle
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Mahesh S Desai
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
- Odense Research Center for Anaphylaxis, Department of Dermatology and Allergy Center, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Hiroshi Ohno
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
- Immunobiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
- Laboratory for Immune Regulation, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chiba, Japan.
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Rotavirus vaccination is not associated with incident celiac disease or autoimmune thyroid disease in a national cohort of privately insured children. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12941. [PMID: 35902684 PMCID: PMC9334581 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17187-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Rotavirus infection is a potential trigger for autoimmune diseases, and previous reports note associations between rotavirus vaccination and type 1 diabetes. In this report, we examine the association between rotavirus vaccination and autoimmune diseases associated with type 1 diabetes: celiac disease and autoimmune thyroiditis. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using de-identified claims data (Optum Clinformatics® Data Mart). Eligible infants were born between 2001 and 2018 and continuously enrolled from birth for at least 365 days (n = 2,109,225). Twenty-nine percent (n = 613,295) of infants were born prior to the introduction of rotavirus vaccine in 2006; 32% (n = 684,214) were eligible for the vaccine but were not vaccinated; 9.6% (n = 202,016) received partial vaccination, and 28.9% received full vaccination (n = 609,700). There were 1379 cases of celiac disease and 1000 cases of autoimmune thyroiditis. Children who were born prior to the introduction of rotavirus vaccine in 2006 had lower risk of celiac disease compared to unvaccinated children born after 2006 (hazard ratio [HR] 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59, 0.85). However, children who were partially vaccinated (HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.73, 1.11) or fully vaccinated (HR 1.03, 95% CI 0.88, 1.21) had similar risk to eligible, unvaccinated children. Risk of autoimmune thyroiditis was similar by vaccination status. We conclude that rotavirus vaccination is not associated with increased or decreased risk for celiac disease or autoimmune thyroiditis.
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Koch BF. SARS-CoV-2 and human retroelements: a case for molecular mimicry? BMC Genom Data 2022; 23:27. [PMID: 35395708 PMCID: PMC8992427 DOI: 10.1186/s12863-022-01040-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The factors driving the late phase of COVID-19 are still poorly understood. However, autoimmunity is an evolving theme in COVID-19’s pathogenesis. Additionally, deregulation of human retroelements (RE) is found in many viral infections, and has also been reported in COVID-19. Results Unexpectedly, coronaviruses (CoV) – including SARS-CoV-2 – harbour many RE-identical sequences (up to 35 base pairs), and some of these sequences are part of SARS-CoV-2 epitopes associated to COVID-19 severity. Furthermore, RE are expressed in healthy controls and human cells and become deregulated after SARS-CoV-2 infection, showing mainly changes in long interspersed nuclear element (LINE1) expression, but also in endogenous retroviruses. Conclusion CoV and human RE share coding sequences, which are targeted by antibodies in COVID-19 and thus could induce an autoimmune loop by molecular mimicry. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12863-022-01040-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Florian Koch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nephrology, Goethe University Hospital, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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11
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Lima M, Aloizou AM, Siokas V, Bakirtzis C, Liampas I, Tsouris Z, Bogdanos DP, Baloyannis SJ, Dardiotis E. Coronaviruses and their relationship with multiple sclerosis: is the prevalence of multiple sclerosis going to increase after the Covid-19 pandemia? Rev Neurosci 2022; 33:703-720. [PMID: 35258237 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to examine whether there is a possible (etiological/triggering) relationship between infection with various Coronaviruses, including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-related Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for the Coronavirus disease-19 (Covid-19) pandemia, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and whether an increase of the prevalence of MS after the current Covid-19 pandemia should be expected, examining new and preexisting data. Although the exact pathogenesis of MS remains unknown, environmental agents seem to greatly influence the onset of the disease, with viruses being the most popular candidate. Existing data support this possible etiological relationship between viruses and MS, and experimental studies show that Coronaviruses can actually induce an MS-like demyelinating disease in animal models. Findings in MS patients could also be compatible with this coronaviral MS hypothesis. More importantly, current data from the Covid-19 pandemia show that SARS-CoV-2 can trigger autoimmunity and possibly induce autoimmune diseases, in the Central Nervous System as well, strengthening the viral hypothesis of MS. If we accept that Coronaviruses can induce MS, it is reasonable to expect an increase in the prevalence of MS after the Covid-19 pandemia. This knowledge is of great importance in order to protect the aging groups that are more vulnerable against autoimmune diseases and MS specifically, and to establish proper vaccination and health policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lima
- Department of Neurology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41100, Larissa, Greece
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41100, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41100, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Bakirtzis
- B' Department of Neurology, Multiple Sclerosis Center, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41100, Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Tsouris
- Department of Neurology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41100, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios P Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and clinical Immunology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 40500 Viopolis, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stavros J Baloyannis
- Research Institute for Alzheimer's disease, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57200 Iraklio Lagkada, Thessaloniki, Greece.,1st Department of Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41100, Larissa, Greece
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12
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Rekvig OP. The Anti-DNA Antibodies: Their Specificities for Unique DNA Structures and Their Unresolved Clinical Impact-A System Criticism and a Hypothesis. Front Immunol 2022; 12:808008. [PMID: 35087528 PMCID: PMC8786728 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.808008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is diagnosed and classified by criteria, or by experience, intuition and traditions, and not by scientifically well-defined etiology(ies) or pathogenicity(ies). One central criterion and diagnostic factor is founded on theoretical and analytical approaches based on our imperfect definition of the term “The anti-dsDNA antibody”. “The anti-dsDNA antibody” holds an archaic position in SLE as a unique classification criterium and pathogenic factor. In a wider sense, antibodies to unique transcriptionally active or silent DNA structures and chromatin components may have individual and profound nephritogenic impact although not considered yet – not in theoretical nor in descriptive or experimental contexts. This hypothesis is contemplated here. In this analysis, our state-of-the-art conception of these antibodies is probed and found too deficient with respect to their origin, structural DNA specificities and clinical/pathogenic impact. Discoveries of DNA structures and functions started with Miescher’s Nuclein (1871), via Chargaff, Franklin, Watson and Crick, and continues today. The discoveries have left us with a DNA helix that presents distinct structures expressing unique operations of DNA. All structures are proven immunogenic! Unique autoimmune antibodies are described against e.g. ssDNA, elongated B DNA, bent B DNA, Z DNA, cruciform DNA, or individual components of chromatin. In light of the massive scientific interest in anti-DNA antibodies over decades, it is an unexpected observation that the spectrum of DNA structures has been known for decades without being implemented in clinical immunology. This leads consequently to a critical analysis of historical and contemporary evidence-based data and of ignored and one-dimensional contexts and hypotheses: i.e. “one antibody - one disease”. In this study radical viewpoints on the impact of DNA and chromatin immunity/autoimmunity are considered and discussed in context of the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Petter Rekvig
- Section of Autoimmunity, Fürst Medical Laboratory, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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13
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Laghmouchi A, Graça NAG, Voorberg J. Emerging Concepts in Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura. Front Immunol 2021; 12:757192. [PMID: 34858410 PMCID: PMC8631936 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.757192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) is an autoimmune disorder of which the etiology is not fully understood. Autoantibodies targeting ADAMTS13 in iTTP patients have extensively been studied, the immunological mechanisms leading to the breach of tolerance remain to be uncovered. This review addresses the current knowledge on genetic factors associated with the development of iTTP and the interplay between the patient’s immune system and environmental factors in the induction of autoimmunity against ADAMTS13. HLA-DRB1*11 has been identified as a risk factor for iTTP in the Caucasian population. Interestingly, HLA-DRB1*08:03 was recently identified as a risk factor in the Japanese population. Combined in vitro and in silico MHC class II peptide presentation approaches suggest that an ADAMTS13-derived peptide may bind to both HLA-DRB1*11 and HLA-DRB1*08:03 through different anchor-residues. It is apparent that iTTP is associated with the presence of infectious microorganisms, viruses being the most widely associated with development of iTTP. Infections may potentially lead to loss of tolerance resulting in the shift from immune homeostasis to autoimmunity. In the model we propose in this review, infections disrupt the epithelial barriers in the gut or lung, promoting exposure of antigen presenting cells in the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue to the microorganisms. This may result in breach of tolerance through the presentation of microorganism-derived peptides that are homologous to ADAMTS13 on risk alleles for iTTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aicha Laghmouchi
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin-Academic Medical Center Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Nuno A G Graça
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin-Academic Medical Center Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jan Voorberg
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin-Academic Medical Center Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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14
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James SA, Ong HS, Hari R, Khan AM. A systematic bioinformatics approach for large-scale identification and characterization of host-pathogen shared sequences. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:700. [PMID: 34583643 PMCID: PMC8477458 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07657-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Biology has entered the era of big data with the advent of high-throughput omics technologies. Biological databases provide public access to petabytes of data and information facilitating knowledge discovery. Over the years, sequence data of pathogens has seen a large increase in the number of records, given the relatively small genome size and their important role as infectious and symbiotic agents. Humans are host to numerous pathogenic diseases, such as that by viruses, many of which are responsible for high mortality and morbidity. The interaction between pathogens and humans over the evolutionary history has resulted in sharing of sequences, with important biological and evolutionary implications. Results This study describes a large-scale, systematic bioinformatics approach for identification and characterization of shared sequences between the host and pathogen. An application of the approach is demonstrated through identification and characterization of the Flaviviridae-human share-ome. A total of 2430 nonamers represented the Flaviviridae-human share-ome with 100% identity. Although the share-ome represented a small fraction of the repertoire of Flaviviridae (~ 0.12%) and human (~ 0.013%) non-redundant nonamers, the 2430 shared nonamers mapped to 16,946 Flaviviridae and 7506 human non-redundant protein sequences. The shared nonamer sequences mapped to 125 species of Flaviviridae, including several with unclassified genus. The majority (~ 68%) of the shared sequences mapped to Hepacivirus C species; West Nile, dengue and Zika viruses of the Flavivirus genus accounted for ~ 11%, ~ 7%, and ~ 3%, respectively, of the Flaviviridae protein sequences (16,946) mapped by the share-ome. Further characterization of the share-ome provided important structural-functional insights to Flaviviridae-human interactions. Conclusion Mapping of the host-pathogen share-ome has important implications for the design of vaccines and drugs, diagnostics, disease surveillance and the discovery of unknown, potential host-pathogen interactions. The generic workflow presented herein is potentially applicable to a variety of pathogens, such as of viral, bacterial or parasitic origin. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07657-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Among James
- Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Data Sciences, Perdana University, Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur, 50490, Malaysia.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, 800211, Nigeria
| | - Hui San Ong
- Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Data Sciences, Perdana University, Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur, 50490, Malaysia
| | - Ranjeev Hari
- Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Data Sciences, Perdana University, Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur, 50490, Malaysia
| | - Asif M Khan
- Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Data Sciences, Perdana University, Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur, 50490, Malaysia. .,Beykoz Institute of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Bezmialem Vakif University, Beykoz, Istanbul, 34820, Turkey.
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15
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Abstract
Reactive arthritis (ReA) is a form of inflammatory arthritis triggered by a remote antecedent infection, usually in the genitourinary or gastrointestinal tract. It is part of the spondyloarthropathy (SpA) spectrum, an umbrella term for a group of distinct conditions with shared clinical features. Typically, it presents with an asymmetric oligoarthritis of the lower limb joints, and patients may also have sacroiliitis, enthesitis and dactylitis. Other features often seen include anterior uveitis, urethritis and skin manifestations such as pustular lesions on the plantar areas. Although ReA was characterised initially as a sterile arthritis, the detection of metabolically active Chlamydia species in the joint fluid of some affected patients has generated further questions on the pathophysiology of this condition. There are no formal diagnostic criteria, and the diagnosis is mainly clinical. HLA-B27 can support the diagnosis in the correct clinical context, and serves as a prognostic indicator. The majority of patients have a self-limiting course, but some develop chronic SpA and require immunomodulatory therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameen Jubber
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, LE1 5WW, UK,
| | - Arumugam Moorthy
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester; College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester
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16
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Zheng H, Ford BN, Kuplicki R, Burrows K, Hunt PW, Bodurka J, Kent Teague T, Irwin MR, Yolken RH, Paulus MP, Savitz J. Association between cytomegalovirus infection, reduced gray matter volume, and resting-state functional hypoconnectivity in major depressive disorder: a replication and extension. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:464. [PMID: 34493708 PMCID: PMC8423754 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01558-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a neurotropic herpes virus known to cause neuropathology in patients with impaired immunity. Previously, we reported a reduction in the gray matter volume (GMV) of several brain regions in two independent samples of participants who were seropositive for HCMV (HCMV+) compared to matched participants who were seronegative for HCMV (HCMV-). In addition to an independent replication of the GMV findings, this study aimed to examine whether HCMV+ was associated with differences in resting-state functional connectivity (rsfMRI-FC). After balancing on 11 clinical/demographic variables using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW), GMV and rsfMRI-FC were obtained from 99 participants with major depressive disorder (MDD) who were classified into 42 HCMV+ and 57 HCMV- individuals. Relative to the HCMV- group, the HCMV+ group showed a significant reduction of GMV in nine cortical regions. Volume reduction in the right lateral orbitofrontal cortex (standardized beta coefficient (SBC) = -0.32, [95%CI, -0.62 to -0.02]) and the left pars orbitalis (SBC = -0.34, [95%CI, -0.63 to -0.05]) in the HCMV+ group was also observed in the previous study. Regardless of the parcellation method or analytical approach, relative to the HCMV- group, the HCMV+ group showed hypoconnectivity between the hubs of the sensorimotor network (bilateral postcentral gyrus) and the hubs of the salience network (bilateral insula) with effect sizes ranging from SBC = -0.57 to -0.99. These findings support the hypothesis that a positive HCMV serostatus is associated with altered connectivity of regions that are important for stress and affective processing and further supports a possible etiological role of HCMV in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Zheng
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, OK, USA.
| | - Bart N Ford
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, OK, USA
- Oklahoma State Univerisity, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | | | | | - Peter W Hunt
- Department of Medicine, the University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jerzy Bodurka
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, OK, USA
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | - T Kent Teague
- Department of Surgery, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Michael R Irwin
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robert H Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Martin P Paulus
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, OK, USA
- Oxley College of Health Sciences, The University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Jonathan Savitz
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, OK, USA
- Oxley College of Health Sciences, The University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, USA
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17
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Peptides of H. sapiens and P. falciparum that are predicted to bind strongly to HLA-A*24:02 and homologous to a SARS-CoV-2 peptide. Acta Trop 2021; 221:106013. [PMID: 34146538 PMCID: PMC8255030 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study is looking for a common pathogenicity between SARS-CoV-2 and Plasmodium species, in individuals with certain HLA serotypes. METHODS 1. Tblastx searches of SARS-CoV-2 are performed by limiting searches to five Plasmodium species that infect humans. 2. Aligned sequences in the respective organisms' proteomes are searched with blastp. 3. Binding predictions of the identified SARS-CoV-2 peptide to HLA supertype representatives are performed. 4. Blastp searches of predicted epitopes that bind strongly to the identified HLA allele are performed by limiting searches to H. sapiens and Plasmodium species, separately. 5. Peptides with minimum 60% identity to the predicted epitopes are found in results. 6. Peptides among those, which bind strongly to the same HLA allele, are predicted. 7. Step-4 is repeated by limiting searches to H. sapiens, followed by the remaining steps until step-7, for peptides sourced by Plasmodium species after step-6. RESULTS SARS-CoV-2 peptide with single letter amino acid code CFLGYFCTCYFGLFC has the highest identity to P. vivax. Its YFCTCYFGLF part is predicted to bind strongly to HLA-A*24:02. Peptides in the human proteome both homologous to YFCTCYFGLF and with a strong binding affinity to HLA-A*24:02 are YYCARRFGLF, YYCHCPFGVF, and YYCQQYFFLF. Such peptides in the Plasmodium species' proteomes are FFYTFYFELF, YFVACLFILF, and YFPTITFHLF. The first one belonging to P. falciparum has a homologous peptide (YFYLFSLELF) in the human proteome, which also has a strong binding affinity to the same HLA allele. CONCLUSION Immune responses to the identified-peptides with similar sequences and strong binding affinities to HLA-A*24:02 can be related to autoimmune response risk in individuals with HLA-A*24:02 serotypes, upon getting infected with SARS-CoV-2 or P. falciparum.
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18
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Vazquez DS, Schilbert HM, Dodero VI. Molecular and Structural Parallels between Gluten Pathogenic Peptides and Bacterial-Derived Proteins by Bioinformatics Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9278. [PMID: 34502187 PMCID: PMC8430993 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gluten-related disorders (GRDs) are a group of diseases that involve the activation of the immune system triggered by the ingestion of gluten, with a worldwide prevalence of 5%. Among them, Celiac disease (CeD) is a T-cell-mediated autoimmune disease causing a plethora of symptoms from diarrhea and malabsorption to lymphoma. Even though GRDs have been intensively studied, the environmental triggers promoting the diverse reactions to gluten proteins in susceptible individuals remain elusive. It has been proposed that pathogens could act as disease-causing environmental triggers of CeD by molecular mimicry mechanisms. Additionally, it could also be possible that unrecognized molecular, structural, and physical parallels between gluten and pathogens have a relevant role. Herein, we report sequence, structural and physical similarities of the two most relevant gluten peptides, the 33-mer and p31-43 gliadin peptides, with bacterial pathogens using bioinformatics going beyond the molecular mimicry hypothesis. First, a stringent BLASTp search using the two gliadin peptides identified high sequence similarity regions within pathogen-derived proteins, e.g., extracellular proteins from Streptococcus pneumoniae and Granulicatella sp. Second, molecular dynamics calculations of an updated α-2-gliadin model revealed close spatial localization and solvent-exposure of the 33-mer and p31-43 peptide, which was compared with the pathogen-related proteins by homology models and localization predictors. We found putative functions of the identified pathogen-derived sequence by identifying T-cell epitopes and SH3/WW-binding domains. Finally, shape and size parallels between the pathogens and the superstructures of gliadin peptides gave rise to novel hypotheses about activation of innate immunity and dysbiosis. Based on our structural findings and the similarities with the bacterial pathogens, evidence emerges that these pathologically relevant gluten-derived peptides could behave as non-replicating pathogens opening new research questions in the interface of innate immunity, microbiome, and food research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego S. Vazquez
- Grupo de Biología Estructural y Biotecnología (GBEyB-IMBICE), Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología, Universidad Nacional de Quilmes, Roque Sáenz Peña 352, Bernal B1876BXD, Buenos Aires, Argentina;
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. Rivadavia 1917, Ciudad Autónoma C1033AAJ, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Hanna M. Schilbert
- Department of Chemistry, Organic Chemistry OCIII, Universität Bielefeld, Universitätsstraße 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany;
| | - Veronica I. Dodero
- Department of Chemistry, Organic Chemistry OCIII, Universität Bielefeld, Universitätsstraße 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany;
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19
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Esposito S, Mariotti Zani E, Torelli L, Scavone S, Petraroli M, Patianna V, Predieri B, Iughetti L, Principi N. Childhood Vaccinations and Type 1 Diabetes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:667889. [PMID: 34512622 PMCID: PMC8427438 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.667889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is the most common paediatric endocrine disease, and its frequency has been found to increase worldwide. Similar to all conditions associated with poorly regulated glucose metabolism, T1D carries an increased risk of infection. Consequently, careful compliance by T1D children with schedules officially approved for child immunization is strongly recommended. However, because patients with T1D show persistent and profound limitations in immune function, vaccines may evoke a less efficient immune response, with corresponding lower protection. Moreover, T1D is an autoimmune condition that develops in genetically susceptible individuals and some data regarding T1D triggering factors appear to indicate that infections, mainly those due to viruses, play a major role. Accordingly, the use of viral live attenuated vaccines is being debated. In this narrative review, we discussed the most effective and safe use of vaccines in patients at risk of or with overt T1D. Literature analysis showed that several problems related to the use of vaccines in children with T1D have not been completely resolved. There are few studies regarding the immunogenicity and efficacy of vaccines in T1D children, and the need for different immunization schedules has not been precisely established. Fortunately, the previous presumed relationship between vaccine administration and T1D appears to have been debunked, though some doubts regarding rotavirus vaccines remain. Further studies are needed to completely resolve the problems related to vaccine administration in T1D patients. In the meantime, the use of vaccines remains extensively recommended in children with this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Esposito
- Paediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elena Mariotti Zani
- Paediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Lisa Torelli
- Paediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sara Scavone
- Paediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maddalena Petraroli
- Paediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Viviana Patianna
- Paediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Barbara Predieri
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Iughetti
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Nicola Principi
- Paediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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20
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Lebeau G, Frumence E, Turpin J, Begue F, Hoarau JJ, Gadea G, Krejbich-Trotot P, Desprès P, Viranaicken W. Zika E Glycan Loop Region and Guillain-Barré Syndrome-Related Proteins: A Possible Molecular Mimicry to Be Taken in Account for Vaccine Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9030283. [PMID: 33808706 PMCID: PMC8003386 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9030283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurological complications of infection by the mosquito-borne Zika virus (ZIKV) include Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS), an acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuritis. GBS was first associated with recent ZIKV epidemics caused by the emergence of the ZIKV Asian lineage in South Pacific. Here, we hypothesize that ZIKV-associated GBS relates to a molecular mimicry between viral envelope E (E) protein and neural proteins involved in GBS. The analysis of the ZIKV epidemic strains showed that the glycan loop (GL) region of the E protein includes an IVNDT motif which is conserved in voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1C (Cav1.2) and Heat Shock 70 kDa protein 12A (HSP70 12A). Both VSCC-alpha 1C and HSP70 12A belong to protein families which have been associated with neurological autoimmune diseases in central nervous system. The purpose of our in silico analysis is to point out that IVNDT motif of ZIKV E-GL region should be taken in consideration for the development of safe and effective anti-Zika vaccines by precluding the possibility of adverse neurologic events including autoimmune diseases such as GBS through a potent mimicry with Heat Shock 70 kDa protein 12A (HSP70 12A).
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégorie Lebeau
- Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire et Tropical (PIMIT), Université de La Réunion 1, La Réunion, 97490 Sainte-Clotilde, France; (G.L.); (E.F.); (J.T.); (J.-J.H.); (G.G.); (P.K.-T.); (P.D.)
| | - Etienne Frumence
- Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire et Tropical (PIMIT), Université de La Réunion 1, La Réunion, 97490 Sainte-Clotilde, France; (G.L.); (E.F.); (J.T.); (J.-J.H.); (G.G.); (P.K.-T.); (P.D.)
| | - Jonathan Turpin
- Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire et Tropical (PIMIT), Université de La Réunion 1, La Réunion, 97490 Sainte-Clotilde, France; (G.L.); (E.F.); (J.T.); (J.-J.H.); (G.G.); (P.K.-T.); (P.D.)
| | - Floran Begue
- Université de La Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète athérothombose Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), 97490 Saint-Clotilde, France;
| | - Jean-Jacques Hoarau
- Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire et Tropical (PIMIT), Université de La Réunion 1, La Réunion, 97490 Sainte-Clotilde, France; (G.L.); (E.F.); (J.T.); (J.-J.H.); (G.G.); (P.K.-T.); (P.D.)
| | - Gilles Gadea
- Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire et Tropical (PIMIT), Université de La Réunion 1, La Réunion, 97490 Sainte-Clotilde, France; (G.L.); (E.F.); (J.T.); (J.-J.H.); (G.G.); (P.K.-T.); (P.D.)
| | - Pascale Krejbich-Trotot
- Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire et Tropical (PIMIT), Université de La Réunion 1, La Réunion, 97490 Sainte-Clotilde, France; (G.L.); (E.F.); (J.T.); (J.-J.H.); (G.G.); (P.K.-T.); (P.D.)
| | - Philippe Desprès
- Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire et Tropical (PIMIT), Université de La Réunion 1, La Réunion, 97490 Sainte-Clotilde, France; (G.L.); (E.F.); (J.T.); (J.-J.H.); (G.G.); (P.K.-T.); (P.D.)
| | - Wildriss Viranaicken
- Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire et Tropical (PIMIT), Université de La Réunion 1, La Réunion, 97490 Sainte-Clotilde, France; (G.L.); (E.F.); (J.T.); (J.-J.H.); (G.G.); (P.K.-T.); (P.D.)
- Correspondence:
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21
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Gómez-Rial J, Rivero-Calle I, Salas A, Martinón-Torres F. Rotavirus and autoimmunity. J Infect 2020; 81:183-189. [PMID: 32360880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2020.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Rotavirus, a major etiological agent of acute diarrhea in children worldwide, has historically been linked to autoimmunity. In the last few years, several physiopathological approaches have been proposed to explain the leading mechanism triggering autoimmunity, from the old concept of molecular mimicry to the emerging theory of bystander activation and break of tolerance. Epidemiological and immunological data indicate a strong link between rotavirus infection and two of the autoimmune pathologies with the highest incidence: celiac disease and diabetes. The role for current oral rotavirus vaccines is now being elucidated, with a so far positive protective association demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Gómez-Rial
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Vacunas, Infecciones y Pediatría (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago (IDIS) and Hospital Clínico Universitario and Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (SERGAS), Travesa da Choupana s/n 15706 Galicia, Spain; Laboratorio de Inmunología, Servicio de Análisis Clínicos, Hospital Clínico Universitario Santiago de Compostela (SERGAS), Travesa da Choupana s/n 15706 Galicia, Spain.
| | - I Rivero-Calle
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Vacunas, Infecciones y Pediatría (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago (IDIS) and Hospital Clínico Universitario and Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (SERGAS), Travesa da Choupana s/n 15706 Galicia, Spain; Translational Pediatrics and Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Travesa da Choupana s/n 15706 Galicia, Spain
| | - A Salas
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Vacunas, Infecciones y Pediatría (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago (IDIS) and Hospital Clínico Universitario and Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (SERGAS), Travesa da Choupana s/n 15706 Galicia, Spain; Unidade de Xenética, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and GenPoB Research Group, Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias (IDIS), Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago (SERGAS), Travesa da Choupana s/n 15706 Galicia, Spain
| | - F Martinón-Torres
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Vacunas, Infecciones y Pediatría (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago (IDIS) and Hospital Clínico Universitario and Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (SERGAS), Travesa da Choupana s/n 15706 Galicia, Spain; Translational Pediatrics and Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Travesa da Choupana s/n 15706 Galicia, Spain
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22
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Cho DH, Song IS, Choi J, Gwon JG. Risk of peripheral arterial disease in patients with periodontitis: A nationwide, population-based, matched cohort study. Atherosclerosis 2020; 297:96-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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23
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Kępińska AP, Iyegbe CO, Vernon AC, Yolken R, Murray RM, Pollak TA. Schizophrenia and Influenza at the Centenary of the 1918-1919 Spanish Influenza Pandemic: Mechanisms of Psychosis Risk. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:72. [PMID: 32174851 PMCID: PMC7054463 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Associations between influenza infection and psychosis have been reported since the eighteenth century, with acute "psychoses of influenza" documented during multiple pandemics. In the late 20th century, reports of a season-of-birth effect in schizophrenia were supported by large-scale ecological and sero-epidemiological studies suggesting that maternal influenza infection increases the risk of psychosis in offspring. We examine the evidence for the association between influenza infection and schizophrenia risk, before reviewing possible mechanisms via which this risk may be conferred. Maternal immune activation models implicate placental dysfunction, disruption of cytokine networks, and subsequent microglial activation as potentially important pathogenic processes. More recent neuroimmunological advances focusing on neuronal autoimmunity following infection provide the basis for a model of infection-induced psychosis, potentially implicating autoimmunity to schizophrenia-relevant protein targets including the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor. Finally, we outline areas for future research and relevant experimental approaches and consider whether the current evidence provides a basis for the rational development of strategies to prevent schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrianna P. Kępińska
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Conrad O. Iyegbe
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony C. Vernon
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Yolken
- Stanley Laboratory of Developmental Neurovirology, Johns Hopkins Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Robin M. Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas A. Pollak
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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24
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Hummert S, Glock C, Lang SN, Hummert C, Skerka C, Zipfel PF, Germerodt S, Schuster S. Playing 'hide-and-seek' with factor H: game-theoretical analysis of a single nucleotide polymorphism. J R Soc Interface 2019; 15:rsif.2017.0963. [PMID: 29720453 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2017.0963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As a part of the complement system, factor H regulates phagocytosis and helps differentiate between a body's own and foreign cells. Owing to mimicry efforts, some pathogenic microorganisms such as Candida albicans are able to bind factor H on their cell surfaces and, thus, become similar to host cells. This implies that the decision between self and foreign is not clear-cut, which leads to a classification problem for the immune system. Here, two different alleles determining the binding affinity of factor H are relevant. Those alleles differ in the SNP Y402H; they are known to be associated with susceptibility to certain diseases. Interestingly, the fraction of both alleles differs in ethnic groups. The game-theoretical model proposed in this article explains the coexistence of both alleles by a battle of the sexes game and investigates the trade-off between pathogen detection and protection of host cells. Further, we discuss the ethnicity-dependent frequencies of the alleles. Moreover, the model elucidates the mimicry efforts by pathogenic microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Hummert
- Institute of Physiology 2, Universitätsklinikum, Friedrich Schiller University, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Christina Glock
- Department of Bioinformatics, Friedrich Schiller University, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan N Lang
- Department of Bioinformatics, Friedrich Schiller University, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Hummert
- Department of Applied Computer Sciences and Biosciences, Mittweida University of Applied Sciences, 09648 Mittweida, Germany
| | - Christine Skerka
- Department of Infection Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), 07745 Jena, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Germerodt
- Department of Bioinformatics, Friedrich Schiller University, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan Schuster
- Department of Bioinformatics, Friedrich Schiller University, 07743 Jena, Germany
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25
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Rojas M, Restrepo-Jiménez P, Monsalve DM, Pacheco Y, Acosta-Ampudia Y, Ramírez-Santana C, Leung PS, Ansari AA, Gershwin ME, Anaya JM. Molecular mimicry and autoimmunity. J Autoimmun 2018; 95:100-123. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2018.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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26
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Steinbach K, Vincenti I, Merkler D. Resident-Memory T Cells in Tissue-Restricted Immune Responses: For Better or Worse? Front Immunol 2018; 9:2827. [PMID: 30555489 PMCID: PMC6284001 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue-resident-memory CD8+ T cells (TRM) have been described as a non-circulating memory T cell subset that persists at sites of previous infection. While TRM in all non-lymphoid organs probably share a core signature differentiation pathway, certain aspects of their maintenance and effector functions may vary. It is well-established that TRM provide long-lived protective immunity through immediate effector function and accelerated recruitment of circulating immune cells. Besides immune defense against pathogens, other immunological roles of TRM are less well-studied. Likewise, evidence of a putative detrimental role of TRM for inflammatory diseases is only beginning to emerge. In this review, we discuss the protective and harmful role of TRM in organ-specific immunity and immunopathology as well as prospective implications for immunomodulatory therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Steinbach
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ilena Vincenti
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Doron Merkler
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of Clinical Pathology, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
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27
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Keinath K, Church T, Kurth B, Hulten E. Myocarditis secondary to smallpox vaccination. BMJ Case Rep 2018; 2018:bcr-2017-223523. [PMID: 29572367 PMCID: PMC5878341 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2017-223523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of vaccines ushered in the most profound advancement in 20th century medicine, and have widely been regarded as the one of the most important scientific discovery in the history of mankind. However, vaccines are not without risk; reactions can range from injection site reactions to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Among the more serious vaccine-related sequela is myocarditis. Although myocarditis has been reported following many different vaccines, the smallpox vaccine has the strongest association. We report a case of a 36-year-old active duty service member presenting with progressive dyspnoea, substernal chest pain and lower extremity swelling 5 weeks after receiving the vaccinia vaccination. The aetiology of his acute decompensated heart failure was determined to be from myocarditis. Although the majority of cases of myocarditis resolve completely, some patients develop chronic heart failure and even death. Vaccine-associated myocarditis should always be on the differential for patients that exhibit cardiopulmonary symptoms after recent vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Keinath
- Internal Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Tyler Church
- Internal Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Benjamin Kurth
- Internal Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Edward Hulten
- Cardiology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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28
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Rekvig OP. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Definitions, Contexts, Conflicts, Enigmas. Front Immunol 2018; 9:387. [PMID: 29545801 PMCID: PMC5839091 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an inadequately defined syndrome. Etiology and pathogenesis remain largely unknown. SLE is on the other hand a seminal syndrome that has challenged immunologists, biologists, genetics, and clinicians to solve its nature. The syndrome is characterized by multiple, etiologically unlinked manifestations. Unexpectedly, they seem to occur in different stochastically linked clusters, although single gene defects may promote a smaller spectrum of symptoms/criteria typical for SLE. There is no known inner coherence of parameters (criteria) making up the disease. These parameters are, nevertheless, implemented in The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and The Systemic Lupus Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) criteria to classify SLE. Still, SLE is an abstraction since the ACR or SLICC criteria allow us to define hundreds of different clinical SLE phenotypes. This is a major point of the present discussion and uses "The anti-dsDNA antibody" as an example related to the problematic search for biomarkers for SLE. The following discussion will show how problematic this is: the disease is defined through non-coherent classification criteria, its complexity is recognized and accepted, its pathogenesis is plural and poorly understood. Therapy is focused on dominant symptoms or organ manifestations, and not on the syndrome itself. From basic scientific evidences, we can add substantial amount of data that are not sufficiently considered in clinical medicine, which may change the paradigms linked to what "The Anti-DNA antibody" is-and is not-in context of the imperfectly defined syndrome SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Petter Rekvig
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
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29
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Jaravine V, Mösch A, Raffegerst S, Schendel DJ, Frishman D. Expitope 2.0: a tool to assess immunotherapeutic antigens for their potential cross-reactivity against naturally expressed proteins in human tissues. BMC Cancer 2017; 17:892. [PMID: 29282079 PMCID: PMC5745885 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-017-3854-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adoptive immunotherapy offers great potential for treating many types of cancer but its clinical application is hampered by cross-reactive T cell responses in healthy human tissues, representing serious safety risks for patients. We previously developed a computational tool called Expitope for assessing cross-reactivity (CR) of antigens based on tissue-specific gene expression. However, transcript abundance only indirectly indicates protein expression. The recent availability of proteome-wide human protein abundance information now facilitates a more direct approach for CR prediction. Here we present a new version 2.0 of Expitope, which computes all naturally possible epitopes of a peptide sequence and the corresponding CR indices using both protein and transcript abundance levels weighted by a proposed hierarchy of importance of various human tissues. RESULTS We tested the tool in two case studies: The first study quantitatively assessed the potential CR of the epitopes used for cancer immunotherapy. The second study evaluated HLA-A*02:01-restricted epitopes obtained from the Immune Epitope Database for different disease groups and demonstrated for the first time that there is a high variation in the background CR depending on the disease state of the host: compared to a healthy individual the CR index is on average two-fold higher for the autoimmune state, and five-fold higher for the cancer state. CONCLUSIONS The ability to predict potential side effects in normal tissues helps in the development and selection of safer antigens, enabling more successful immunotherapy of cancer and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Jaravine
- Department of Bioinformatics, Wissenschaftszentrum Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising, 85354, Germany
- Medigene Immunotherapies GmbH, a subsidiary of Medigene AG, Planegg, 82152, Germany
| | - Anja Mösch
- Department of Bioinformatics, Wissenschaftszentrum Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising, 85354, Germany
- Medigene Immunotherapies GmbH, a subsidiary of Medigene AG, Planegg, 82152, Germany
| | - Silke Raffegerst
- Medigene Immunotherapies GmbH, a subsidiary of Medigene AG, Planegg, 82152, Germany
| | - Dolores J Schendel
- Medigene Immunotherapies GmbH, a subsidiary of Medigene AG, Planegg, 82152, Germany
| | - Dmitrij Frishman
- Department of Bioinformatics, Wissenschaftszentrum Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising, 85354, Germany.
- St Petersburg State Polytechnical University, St Petersburg, 195251, Russia.
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30
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Mousa AA, Roche DB, Terkawi MA, Kameyama K, Kamyingkird K, Vudriko P, Salama A, Cao S, Orabi S, Khalifa H, Ahmed M, Attia M, Elkirdasy A, Nishikawa Y, Xuan X, Cornillot E. Human babesiosis: Indication of a molecular mimicry between thrombospondin domains from a novel Babesia microti BmP53 protein and host platelets molecules. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185372. [PMID: 29040286 PMCID: PMC5644982 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Human babesiosis is caused by the apicomplexan parasite Babesia microti, which is of major public health concern in the United States and elsewhere, resulting in malaise and fatigue, followed by a fever and hemolytic anemia. In this paper we focus on the characterization of a novel B. microti thrombospondin domain (TSP1)-containing protein (BmP53) from the new annotation of the B. microti genome (locus 'BmR1_04g09041'). This novel protein (BmP53) had a single TSP1 and a transmembrane domain, with a short cytoplasmic tail containing a sub-terminal glutamine residue, but no signal peptide and Von Willebrand factor type A domains (VWA), which are found in classical thrombospondin-related adhesive proteins (TRAP). Co-localization assays of BmP53 and Babesia microti secreted antigen 1 (BmSA1) suggested that BmP53 might be a non-secretory membranous protein. Molecular mimicry between the TSP1 domain from BmP53 and host platelets molecules was indicated through different measures of sequence homology, phylogenetic analysis, 3D structure and shared epitopes. Indeed, hamster isolated platelets cross-reacted with mouse anti-BmP53-TSP1. Molecular mimicry are used to help parasites to escape immune defenses, resulting in immune evasion or autoimmunity. Furthermore, specific host reactivity was also detected against the TSP1-free part of BmP53 in infected hamster sera. In conclusion, the TSP1 domain mimicry might help in studying the mechanisms of parasite-induced thrombocytopenia, with the TSP1-free truncate of the protein representing a potential safe candidate for future vaccine studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Abdelmoniem Mousa
- Institut de Biologie Computationnelle (IBC), LIRMM, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Daniel Barry Roche
- Institut de Biologie Computationnelle (IBC), LIRMM, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie cellulaire de Montpellier, CNRS-UMR 5237, Montpellier, France
| | - Mohamad Alaa Terkawi
- Institut de Biologie Computationnelle (IBC), LIRMM, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Kyohko Kameyama
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Ketsarin Kamyingkird
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Patrick Vudriko
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Akram Salama
- Department of Animal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Shinuo Cao
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Sahar Orabi
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Hanem Khalifa
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Ahmed
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Mabrouk Attia
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elkirdasy
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Yoshifumi Nishikawa
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
- * E-mail: (EC); (XX)
| | - Emmanuel Cornillot
- Institut de Biologie Computationnelle (IBC), LIRMM, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM-INSERM U1194), Institut régional du Cancer Montpellier (ICM) and Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- * E-mail: (EC); (XX)
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31
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Gut bacterial peptides with autoimmunity potential as environmental trigger for late onset complex diseases: In-silico study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180518. [PMID: 28678867 PMCID: PMC5498033 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidences suggest that human gut microbiota with major component as bacteria can induce immunity. It is also known that gut lining depletes with ageing and that there is increased risk of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders with ageing. It is therefore likely that both may be correlated as depletion of gut lining exposes the gut bacterial antigens to host immune mechanisms, which may induce immunity to certain bacterial proteins, but at the same time such immunity may also be auto-immunogenic to host. This autoimmunity may make a protein molecule nonfunctional and thereby may be involved in late onset metabolic, autoimmune and inflammatory disorders such as, Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hyperlipidemias and Cancer. In this in-silico study we found a large number of peptides identical between human and gut bacteria which were binding to HLA-II alleles, and hence, likely to be auto-immunogenic. Further we observed that such autoimmune candidates were enriched in bacterial species belonging to Firmicutes and Proteobacteria phyla, which lead us to conclude that these phyla may have higher disease impact in genetically predisposed individuals. Functional annotation of human proteins homologous to candidate gut-bacterial peptides showed significant enrichment in metabolic processes and pathways. Cognitive trait, Ageing, Alzheimer, Type 2 diabetes, Chronic Kidney Failure (CKF), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and various Cancers were the major diseases represented in the dataset. This dataset provides us with gut bacterial autoimmune candidates which can be studied for their clinical significance in late onset diseases.
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32
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Akhi R, Wang C, Kyrklund M, Kummu O, Turunen SP, Hyvärinen K, Kullaa A, Salo T, Pussinen PJ, Hörkkö S. Cross-reactive saliva IgA antibodies to oxidized LDL and periodontal pathogens in humans. J Clin Periodontol 2017; 44:682-691. [PMID: 28548243 DOI: 10.1111/jcpe.12748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM Oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDL) are formed as a result of lipid peroxidation and are highly immunogenic and proatherogenic. In this study, saliva antibodies binding to oxLDL, Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) were characterized and their cross-reactivity was evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Resting and stimulated saliva samples were collected from 36 healthy adults (mean age 26 years). Saliva IgA, IgG and IgM autoantibody levels to copper oxidized LDL (CuOx-LDL) and malondialdehyde acetaldehyde-modified LDL (MAA-LDL) were determined with chemiluminescence immunoassay. RESULTS Saliva IgA and IgG antibodies binding to MAA-LDL and CuOx-LDL were detected in all samples and they were associated with the saliva levels of IgA and IgG to P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans. Competitive immunoassay showed that saliva antibodies to MAA-LDL cross-reacted specifically with P. gingivalis. The autoantibody levels to oxLDL in saliva were not associated with the autoantibody levels to oxLDL in plasma or with saliva apolipoprotein B 100 levels. CONCLUSIONS Saliva contains IgA and IgG binding to oxLDL, which showed cross-reactive properties with the periodontal pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.g). The data suggest that secretory IgA to P.g may participate in immune reactions involved in LDL oxidation through molecular mimicry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Akhi
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Research Unit of Biomedicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Nordlab, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.,Research Unit of Oral Health Sciences, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Chunguang Wang
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Research Unit of Biomedicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Nordlab, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Mikael Kyrklund
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Research Unit of Biomedicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Nordlab, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Outi Kummu
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Research Unit of Biomedicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Nordlab, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Sini Pauliina Turunen
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Research Unit of Biomedicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Research Programs Unit, Genome-Scale Biology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kati Hyvärinen
- Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Arja Kullaa
- Research Unit of Oral Health Sciences, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Tuula Salo
- Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Cancer Research and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Pirkko J Pussinen
- Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sohvi Hörkkö
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Research Unit of Biomedicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Nordlab, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
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33
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Wang Z, Ma Y, Liu F, Chen L, Gao R, Zhang W. Autoantibodies against mono- and tri-methylated lysine display similar but also distinctive characteristics. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172166. [PMID: 28222195 PMCID: PMC5319698 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoantibodies can be either harmful or beneficial to the body. The beneficial autoantibodies play important roles in immunosurveillance, clearance of body waste and maintenance of immune homeostasis. Despite their importance, however, people’s knowledge on the protective autoantibodies is still very limited. In the current study, we examined two autoantibodies that recognized epitopes with only one amino acid. One was against mono-methylated lysine (Kme) and the other was against tri-methylated lysine (Kme3). We found that the antibodies were highly specific and not polyreactive. They did not cross-react each other. Although anti-Kme antibodies were IgM only, a large proportion of the anti-Kme3 antibodies were switched to the IgG isotype. Mass spectrometric analysis showed that both of the antibodies were mainly derived from IGHV 3–7 and/or IGHV3-74 germ line genes with conserved CDR2. De novo sequencing showed that there was a mutation at either of the SS positions on the CDR1 region, which changed one of the serine residues to a basic amino acid, i.e., arginine or lysine. We also found that neither of the antibodies was expressed at birth, and their earliest appearance was approximately 5 months after birth. All healthy human beings expressed the antibodies when they reached age two and maintained the expression thereafter throughout their life. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus had lower levels of the IgM isotype antibodies. Serum levels of the two IgM antibodies were closely correlated, implying that they were produced by cells from the same B cell subset. We also found that both anti-Kme and anti-Kme3 antibodies could bind and might take part in the clearance of neutrophil extracellular traps released from activated cells. In conclusion, although anti-Kme and anti-Kme3 antibodies share many similarities in their origins, they are different antibodies and have different characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Wang
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing China
| | - Younan Ma
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing China
| | - Fan Liu
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Linjie Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunoloy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Ruitong Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing China
- * E-mail:
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Lucchese G. From Toxoplasmosis to Schizophrenia via NMDA Dysfunction: Peptide Overlap between Toxoplasma gondii and N-Methyl-d-Aspartate Receptors As a Potential Mechanistic Link. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:37. [PMID: 28360866 PMCID: PMC5350139 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present work aims at investigating how Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection may be linked to N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) dysfunction in schizophrenia and related disorders and puts forward the hypothesis that immune responses against T. gondii may involve NMDARs. Indeed, the analysis of the protozoan proteome and NMDAR subunits for peptide commonalities shows a massive peptide overlap and supports the possibility that anti-T. gondii immune responses raised during active protozoan infection may cross-react with host NMDARs, determining disruption of neural circuits and cognitive deficits. In particular, the NMDA 2D subunit, which is mainly expressed in parvalbumin-positive interneurons, appears to be a hotspot for potential T. gondii-induced cross-reactive immune attacks.
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The CD8 T-cell response during tolerance induction in liver transplantation. Clin Transl Immunology 2016; 5:e102. [PMID: 27867515 PMCID: PMC5099425 DOI: 10.1038/cti.2016.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Revised: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Both experimental and clinical studies have shown that the liver possesses unique tolerogenic properties. Liver allografts can be spontaneously accepted across complete major histocompatibility mismatch in some animal models. In addition, some liver transplant patients can be successfully withdrawn from immunosuppressive medications, developing ‘operational tolerance'. Multiple mechanisms have been shown to be involved in inducing and maintaining alloimmune tolerance associated with liver transplantation. Here, we focus on CD8 T-cell tolerance in this setting. We first discuss how alloreactive cytotoxic T-cell responses are generated against allografts, before reviewing how the liver parenchyma, donor passenger leucocytes and the host immune system function together to attenuate alloreactive CD8 T-cell responses to promote the long-term survival of liver transplants.
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Jaravine V, Raffegerst S, Schendel DJ, Frishman D. Assessment of cancer and virus antigens for cross-reactivity in human tissues. Bioinformatics 2016; 33:104-111. [DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btw567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Revised: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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Kell DB, Kenny LC. A Dormant Microbial Component in the Development of Preeclampsia. Front Med (Lausanne) 2016; 3:60. [PMID: 27965958 PMCID: PMC5126693 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2016.00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex, multisystem disorder that remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnancy. Four main classes of dysregulation accompany PE and are widely considered to contribute to its severity. These are abnormal trophoblast invasion of the placenta, anti-angiogenic responses, oxidative stress, and inflammation. What is lacking, however, is an explanation of how these themselves are caused. We here develop the unifying idea, and the considerable evidence for it, that the originating cause of PE (and of the four classes of dysregulation) is, in fact, microbial infection, that most such microbes are dormant and hence resist detection by conventional (replication-dependent) microbiology, and that by occasional resuscitation and growth it is they that are responsible for all the observable sequelae, including the continuing, chronic inflammation. In particular, bacterial products such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), also known as endotoxin, are well known as highly inflammagenic and stimulate an innate (and possibly trained) immune response that exacerbates the inflammation further. The known need of microbes for free iron can explain the iron dysregulation that accompanies PE. We describe the main routes of infection (gut, oral, and urinary tract infection) and the regularly observed presence of microbes in placental and other tissues in PE. Every known proteomic biomarker of "preeclampsia" that we assessed has, in fact, also been shown to be raised in response to infection. An infectious component to PE fulfills the Bradford Hill criteria for ascribing a disease to an environmental cause and suggests a number of treatments, some of which have, in fact, been shown to be successful. PE was classically referred to as endotoxemia or toxemia of pregnancy, and it is ironic that it seems that LPS and other microbial endotoxins really are involved. Overall, the recognition of an infectious component in the etiology of PE mirrors that for ulcers and other diseases that were previously considered to lack one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas B. Kell
- School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- The Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Centre for Synthetic Biology of Fine and Speciality Chemicals, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- *Correspondence: Douglas B. Kell,
| | - Louise C. Kenny
- The Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION: Results From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III. Retina 2015; 35:982-8. [PMID: 25627087 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000000427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the association between periodontal disease (PD) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS For this cross-sectional analysis, 8,208 adults aged 40 years or older with retinal photographs graded for AMD were used from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III standardized dental measurements of PD status (defined as loss of >3 mm of attachment between the gum and tooth in at least 10% of sites measured). Participants were stratified into 60 years or younger and older than 60 years of age groups. Association between PD and AMD was assessed while controlling for sex, race, education, poverty income ratio, smoking, hypertension, body mass index, cardiovascular disease, and C-reactive protein. RESULTS In this population, a total of 52.30% had PD, and the prevalence of AMD was 11.45%. Logistic regression model controlled for confounders and stratified by age 60 years or younger versus older than 60 years showed PD to be independently associated with an increased risk for AMD (odds ratio = 1.96, 95% confidence interval = 1.22-3.14, P = 0.006) for those aged 60 years or younger but not for subjects older than 60 years (odds ratio = 1.32, confidence interval = 0.93-1.90, P = 0.120). CONCLUSION In this population-based study, PD is independently associated with AMD in those aged 60 years or younger.
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Aas-Hanssen K, Thompson KM, Bogen B, Munthe LA. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Molecular Mimicry between Anti-dsDNA CDR3 Idiotype, Microbial and Self Peptides-As Antigens for Th Cells. Front Immunol 2015; 6:382. [PMID: 26284067 PMCID: PMC4517057 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is marked by a T helper (Th) cell-dependent B cell hyperresponsiveness, with frequent germinal center reactions, and gammaglobulinemia. A feature of SLE is the finding of IgG autoantibodies specific for dsDNA. The specificity of the Th cells that drive the expansion of anti-dsDNA B cells is unresolved. However, anti-microbial, anti-histone, and anti-idiotype Th cell responses have been hypothesized to play a role. It has been entirely unclear if these seemingly disparate Th cell responses and hypotheses could be related or unified. Here, we describe that H chain CDR3 idiotypes from IgG+ B cells of lupus mice have sequence similarities with both microbial and self peptides. Matched sequences were more frequent within the mutated CDR3 repertoire and when sequences were derived from lupus mice with expanded anti-dsDNA B cells. Analyses of histone sequences showed that particular histone peptides were similar to VDJ junctions. Moreover, lupus mice had Th cell responses toward histone peptides similar to anti-dsDNA CDR3 sequences. The results suggest that Th cells in lupus may have multiple cross-reactive specificities linked to the IgVH CDR3 Id-peptide sequences as well as similar DNA-associated protein motifs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Aas-Hanssen
- Department of Immunology, Centre for Immune Regulation, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Keith M Thompson
- Department of Immunology, Centre for Immune Regulation, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Bjarne Bogen
- Department of Immunology, Centre for Immune Regulation, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway ; KG Jebsen Centre for Influenza Vaccine Research, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Ludvig A Munthe
- Department of Immunology, Centre for Immune Regulation, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
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Buchner M, Swaminathan S, Chen Z, Müschen M. Mechanisms of pre-B-cell receptor checkpoint control and its oncogenic subversion in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Immunol Rev 2015; 263:192-209. [PMID: 25510278 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Pre-B cells within the bone marrow represent the normal counterpart for most acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). During normal early B-cell development, survival and proliferation signals are dominated by cytokines, particularly interleukin-7 (IL-7) for murine developing B cells. With expression of a functional pre-B-cell receptor (BCR), cytokine signaling is attenuated and the tonic/autonomous pre-BCR signaling pathway provides proliferation as well as differentiation signals. In this review, we first describe checkpoint mechanisms during normal B-cell development and then discuss how genetic lesions in these pathways function as oncogenic mimicries and allow transformed pre-B cells to bypass checkpoint control. We focus on cytokine receptor signaling that is mimicked by activating lesions in receptor subunits or downstream mediators as well as aberrant activation of non-B lymphoid cytokine receptors. Furthermore, we describe the molecular switch from cytokine receptor to pre-BCR signaling, how this pathway is of particular importance for certain ALL subtypes, and how pre-BCR signaling is engaged by genetic lesions, such as BCR-ABL1. We discuss the transcriptional control mechanisms downstream of both cytokine- and pre-BCR signaling and how normal checkpoint control mechanisms are circumvented in pre-B ALL. Finally, we highlight new therapeutic concepts for targeted inhibition of oncogenic cytokine or pre-BCR signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Buchner
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Maoz-Segal R, Andrade P. Molecular Mimicry and Autoimmunity. INFECTION AND AUTOIMMUNITY 2015. [PMCID: PMC7151819 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63269-2.00054-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The term Molecular mimicry describes the sequence similarity between foreign (microorganism's peptides) and self peptides (the host's antigen). This phenomenon has been recently discovered as a one of the major mechanism in which there is a break-down of self-tolerance of the immune system following autoimmunity. After a short preface, the chapter contains examples of common infectious agents and their role in autoimmune diseases. Later on, it describes the autoimmune diseases in which there was found a relation to infectious agents via molecular mimicry mechanism. The data is summarized in two tables.
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Via A, Uyar B, Brun C, Zanzoni A. How pathogens use linear motifs to perturb host cell networks. Trends Biochem Sci 2014; 40:36-48. [PMID: 25475989 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2014.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Molecular mimicry is one of the powerful stratagems that pathogens employ to colonise their hosts and take advantage of host cell functions to guarantee their replication and dissemination. In particular, several viruses have evolved the ability to interact with host cell components through protein short linear motifs (SLiMs) that mimic host SLiMs, thus facilitating their internalisation and the manipulation of a wide range of cellular networks. Here we present convincing evidence from the literature that motif mimicry also represents an effective, widespread hijacking strategy in prokaryotic and eukaryotic parasites. Further insights into host motif mimicry would be of great help in the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms behind host cell invasion and the development of anti-infective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allegra Via
- Department of Physics, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Bora Uyar
- Structural and Computational Biology, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christine Brun
- Inserm, UMR1090 TAGC, Marseille F-13288, France; Aix-Marseille Université, UMR1090 TAGC, Marseille F-13288, France; CNRS, Marseille F-13402, France
| | - Andreas Zanzoni
- Inserm, UMR1090 TAGC, Marseille F-13288, France; Aix-Marseille Université, UMR1090 TAGC, Marseille F-13288, France.
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Lucchesi D, Pitzalis C, Bombardieri M. EBV and other viruses as triggers of tertiary lymphoid structures in primary Sjögren's syndrome. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2014; 10:445-55. [PMID: 24564506 DOI: 10.1586/1744666x.2014.892417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease that targets salivary (SG) and lachrymal glands, leading to exocrine dysfunction. Several viruses have been associated with SS, although the role of persistent viral infections in triggering and/or perpetuating the disease is still a matter of controversy. Together with exocrine dysfunction, SS is characterised by the production of autoantibodies and the presence of lymphomonocytic periductal aggregates in the SG, which in 30/40% of the patients display features of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) supporting an ectopic germinal centre response. Here we first review i) the relevance of TLS in SS and ii) the evidence in support of a role for viruses in SS insurgence and/or persistence; next, iii) we review recent data which links viral infection with TLS formation in the SG and suggests that viral-host interactions within TLS favour breach of tolerance and development of autoimmunity in SS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Lucchesi
- Centre for Experimental Medicine & Rheumatology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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Silva CL, Bonato VLD, dos Santos-Júnior RR, Zárate-Bladés CR, Sartori A. Recent advances in DNA vaccines for autoimmune diseases. Expert Rev Vaccines 2014; 8:239-52. [DOI: 10.1586/14760584.8.2.239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Xia M, Chen D, Endresz V, Faludi I, Szabo A, Gonczol E, Kakkar V, Lu X. Immunization of Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cpn)-infected Apob(tm2Sgy)Ldlr(tm1Her)/J mice with a combined peptide of Cpn significantly reduces atherosclerotic lesion development. PLoS One 2013; 8:e81056. [PMID: 24349031 PMCID: PMC3862476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0081056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the antigenic effect of a peptide containing two epitopes of Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cpn) on atherosclerotic lesion formation in mice infected with Cpn. Materials and Methods Six-week-old Apobtm2SgyLdlrtm1Her/J mice were immunized using a repetitive immunization multiple-sites strategy with KLH-conjugated peptides derived from the major outer membrane protein and the putative outer membrane protein 5 of Cpn. Mice were fed a high-fat diet and infected with Cpn twice during the 10-week diet period. Lesions were evaluated histologically; local and systemic immune responses were analyzed by immunohistochemistry of aorta samples and cytokine measurements in plasma samples and splenocyte supernatants. Results Mice immunized with the combined Cpn peptide showed a greater reduction in lesion size compared to mice immunized with either epitope alone [54.7% vs 39.8% or 41.72%] and was also associated with a significant decrease in lesion area in descending aortas compared with those in controls (88.9% for combined Cpn peptide, 81.9% for MOMP peptide and 75.7% for Omp5, respectively). This effect was associated with a shift in the cellular composition of plaques towards decreased inflammatory cell and increased regulatory T-cell content. Additionally, the effect was also connected with decreased secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and increased production of anti-inflammatory cytokines demonstrated in plasma and in supernatant on stimulated spleen cells. Conclusions Atherosclerotic lesion formation may be promoted by Cpn infection in the presence of a high-fat diet, and reduced by immunization with the combined Cpn peptide. The combined peptide has more potential than either epitope alone in reducing atherosclerotic lesion development through Treg expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Xia
- The Mary and Garry Weston Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Thrombosis Research Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daxin Chen
- The Mary and Garry Weston Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Thrombosis Research Institute, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Transplantation, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Valeria Endresz
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunobiology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ildiko Faludi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunobiology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Andrea Szabo
- Institute of Surgical Research, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Eva Gonczol
- Virology, National Center for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Vijay Kakkar
- The Mary and Garry Weston Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Thrombosis Research Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Thrombosis Research Institute, Bangalore, India
- * E-mail: (VK); (XL)
| | - Xinjie Lu
- The Mary and Garry Weston Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Thrombosis Research Institute, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (VK); (XL)
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Anand SK, Tikoo SK. Viruses as modulators of mitochondrial functions. Adv Virol 2013; 2013:738794. [PMID: 24260034 PMCID: PMC3821892 DOI: 10.1155/2013/738794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are multifunctional organelles with diverse roles including energy production and distribution, apoptosis, eliciting host immune response, and causing diseases and aging. Mitochondria-mediated immune responses might be an evolutionary adaptation by which mitochondria might have prevented the entry of invading microorganisms thus establishing them as an integral part of the cell. This makes them a target for all the invading pathogens including viruses. Viruses either induce or inhibit various mitochondrial processes in a highly specific manner so that they can replicate and produce progeny. Some viruses encode the Bcl2 homologues to counter the proapoptotic functions of the cellular and mitochondrial proteins. Others modulate the permeability transition pore and either prevent or induce the release of the apoptotic proteins from the mitochondria. Viruses like Herpes simplex virus 1 deplete the host mitochondrial DNA and some, like human immunodeficiency virus, hijack the host mitochondrial proteins to function fully inside the host cell. All these processes involve the participation of cellular proteins, mitochondrial proteins, and virus specific proteins. This review will summarize the strategies employed by viruses to utilize cellular mitochondria for successful multiplication and production of progeny virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev K. Anand
- Vaccine & Infection Disease Organization-International Vaccine Center (VIDO-InterVac), University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7E 5E3
- Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7E 5E3
| | - Suresh K. Tikoo
- Vaccine & Infection Disease Organization-International Vaccine Center (VIDO-InterVac), University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7E 5E3
- Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7E 5E3
- School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7E 5E3
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Systemic lupus erythematosus patients contain significantly less igm against mono-methylated lysine than healthy subjects. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68520. [PMID: 23874652 PMCID: PMC3713014 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications on proteins are important in biological processes but may create neo-epitopes that induce autoimmune responses. In this study, we measured the serum IgG and IgM response to a set of non-modified or acetyl- and methyl-modified peptides corresponding to residues 1–19 of the histone 3 N-terminal tail in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and healthy subjects. Our results indicated that the SLE patients and healthy subjects produced antibodies (Abs) to the peptides, but the two groups had different Ab isotype and epitope preferences. Abs to the non-modified form, H31–19, were of the IgG isotype and produced by SLE patients. They could not recognize the scrambled H31–19, which contained the same amino acid composition but a different sequence as H31–19. In comparison, healthy subjects in general did not produce IgG against H31–19. However, about 70% of the healthy subjects produced IgM Abs against mono-methylated K9 of H31–19 (H31–19K9me). Our further studies revealed that ε-amine mono-methylated lysine could completely inhibit the IgM binding to H31–19K9me, but lysine had no inhibitory effect. In addition, the IgM Abs could bind peptides containing a mono-methylated lysine residue but with totally different sequences. Thus, mono-methylated lysine was the sole epitope for the IgM. Interestingly, SLE patients had much lower levels of this type of IgM. There was no obvious correlation between the IgM levels and disease activity and the decreased IgM was unlikely caused by medical treatments.We also found that the IgM Abs were not polyreactive to dsDNA, ssDNA, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or insulin and they did not exist in umbilical cord serum, implying that they were not natural Abs. The IgM Abs against mono-methylated lysine are present in healthy subjects but are significantly lower in SLE patients, suggesting a distinct origin of production and special physiological functions.
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Hurford A, Day T. Immune evasion and the evolution of molecular mimicry in parasites. Evolution 2013; 67:2889-904. [PMID: 24094341 DOI: 10.1111/evo.12171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Parasites that are molecular mimics express proteins which resemble host proteins. This resemblance facilitates immune evasion because the immune molecules with the specificity to react with the parasite also cross-react with the host's own proteins, and these lymphocytes are rare. Given this advantage, why are not most parasites molecular mimics? Here we explore potential factors that can select against molecular mimicry in parasites and thereby limit its occurrence. We consider two hypotheses: (1) molecular mimics are more likely to induce autoimmunity in their hosts, and hosts with autoimmunity generate fewer new infections (the "costly autoimmunity hypothesis"); and (2) molecular mimicry compromises protein functioning, lowering the within-host replication rate and leading to fewer new infections (the "mimicry trade-off hypothesis"). Our analysis shows that although both hypotheses may select against molecular mimicry in parasites, unique hallmarks of protein expression identify whether selection is due to the costly autoimmunity hypothesis or the mimicry trade-off hypothesis. We show that understanding the relevant selective forces is necessary to predict how different medical interventions will affect the proportion of hosts that experience the different infection types, and that if parasite evolution is ignored, interventions aimed at reducing infection-induced autoimmunity may ultimately fail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Hurford
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Department of Biology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
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Paiardini A, Pascarella S. Structural mimicry between SLA/LP and Rickettsia surface antigens as a driver of autoimmune hepatitis: insights from an in silico study. Theor Biol Med Model 2013; 10:25. [PMID: 23575112 PMCID: PMC3636016 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4682-10-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2013] [Accepted: 04/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic, progressive liver disease, characterized by continuing hepatocellular inflammation and necrosis. A subgroup of AIH patients presents specific autoantibodies to soluble liver antigen/liver-pancreas (SLA/LP) protein, which is regarded as a highly specific diagnostic marker. Autoantigenic SLA/LP peptides are targeted by CD4+ T cells, and restricted by the allele HLA-DRB1*03:01, which confers disease susceptibility in Europeans and Americans. A positively charged residue at position 71 has been indicated as critical for AIH susceptibility in all of the HLA alleles identified to date. Though the exact molecular mechanisms underlying pathogenesis of AIH are not clear, molecular mimicry between SLA/LP and viral/bacterial antigens has been invoked. METHODS The immunodominant region of SLA/LP was used as query in databank searches to identify statistically significant similarities with viral/bacterial peptides. Homology modeling and docking was used to investigate the potential interaction of HLA-DRB1*03:01 with the identified peptides. By molecular mechanics means, the interactions and energy of binding at the HLA binding site was also scrutinized. RESULTS A statistically significant structural similarity between the immunodominant regions of SLA/LP and a region of the surface antigen PS 120 from Rickettsia spp. has been detected. The interaction of the SLA/LP autoepitope and the corresponding Rickettsia sequence with the allele HLA-DRB1*03:01 has been simulated. The obtained results predict for both peptides a similar binding mode and affinity to HLA-DRB1*03:01. A "hot spot" of interaction between HLA-DRB1*03:01 and PS 120 is located at the P4 binding pocket, and is represented by a salt bridge involving Lys at position 71 of the HLA protein, and Glu 795 of PS120 peptide. CONCLUSIONS These findings strongly support the notion that a molecular mimicry mechanism can trigger AIH onset. CD4+ T cells recognizing peptides of SLA/LP could indeed cross-react with foreign Rickettsia spp. antigens. Finally, the same analysis suggests a molecular explanation for the importance of position 71 in conferring the susceptibility of the allele HLA-DRB1*03:01 to AIH. The lack of a positive charge at such position could prevent HLA alleles from binding the foreign peptides and triggering the molecular mimicry event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Paiardini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza - Università di Roma, Roma, 00185, Italy
| | - Stefano Pascarella
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza - Università di Roma, Roma, 00185, Italy
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Baker BM, Scott DR, Blevins SJ, Hawse WF. Structural and dynamic control of T-cell receptor specificity, cross-reactivity, and binding mechanism. Immunol Rev 2013; 250:10-31. [PMID: 23046120 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-065x.2012.01165.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, structural biology has shown how T-cell receptors engage peptide/major histocompatibility complex (MHC) complexes and provided insight into the mechanisms underlying antigen specificity and cross-reactivity. Here we review and contextualize our contributions, which have emphasized the influence of structural changes and molecular flexibility. A repeated observation is the presence of conformational melding, in which the T-cell receptor (TCR), peptide, and in some cases, MHC protein cooperatively adjust in order for recognition to proceed. The structural changes reflect the intrinsic dynamics of the unligated proteins. Characterization of the dynamics of unligated TCR shows how binding loop motion can influence TCR cross-reactivity as well as specificity towards peptide and MHC. Examination of peptide dynamics indicates not only peptide-specific variation but also a peptide dependence to MHC flexibility. This latter point emphasizes that the TCR engages a composite peptide/MHC surface and that physically the receptor makes little distinction between the peptide and MHC. Much additional evidence for this can be found within the database of available structures, including our observations of a peptide dependence to the TCR binding mode and structural compensations for altered interatomic interactions, in which lost TCR-peptide interactions are replaced with TCR-MHC interactions. The lack of a hard-coded physical distinction between peptide and MHC has implications not only for specificity and cross-reactivity but also the mechanisms underlying MHC restriction as well as attempts to modulate and control TCR recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian M Baker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, IN, USA.
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