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Zych M, Kniotek M, Roszczyk A, Dąbrowski F, Jędra R, Zagożdżon R. Surface Immune Checkpoints as Potential Biomarkers in Physiological Pregnancy and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9378. [PMID: 39273326 PMCID: PMC11395075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179378] [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: 08/14/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to the genetic diversity between the mother and the fetus, heightened control over the immune system during pregnancy is crucial. Immunological parameters determined by clinicians in women with idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) include the quantity and activity of Natural Killer (NK) and Natural Killer T (NKT) cells, the quantity of regulatory T lymphocytes, and the ratio of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which indicate imbalances in Th1 and Th2 cell response. The processes are controlled by immune checkpoint proteins (ICPs) expressed on the surface of immune cells. We aim to investigate differences in the expression of ICPs on T cells, T regulatory lymphocytes, NK cells, and NKT cells in peripheral blood samples collected from RSA women, pregnant women, and healthy multiparous women. We aim to discover new insights into the role of ICPs involved in recurrent pregnancy loss. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated by gradient centrifugation from blood samples obtained from 10 multiparous women, 20 pregnant women (11-14th week of pregnancy), and 20 RSA women, at maximum of 72 h after miscarriage. The PBMCs were stained for flow cytometry analysis. Standard flow cytometry immunophenotyping of PBMCs was performed using antibodies against classical lymphocyte markers, including CD3, CD4, CD8, CD56, CD25, and CD127. Additionally, ICPs were investigated using antibodies against Programmed Death Protein-1 (PD-1, CD279), T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (TIM-3, CD366), V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA), T cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT), and Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3). We observed differences in the surface expression of ICPs in the analyzed subpopulations of lymphocytes between early pregnancy and RSA, after miscarriage, and in women. We noted diminished expression of PD-1 on T lymphocytes (p = 0.0046), T helper cells (CD3CD4 positive cells, p = 0.0165), T cytotoxic cells (CD3CD8 positive cells, p = 0.0046), T regulatory lymphocytes (CD3CD4CD25CD127 low positive cells, p = 0.0106), and NKT cells (CD3CD56/CD16 positive cells, p = 0.0438), as well as LAG-3 on lymphocytes T (p = 0.0225) T helper, p = 0.0426), T cytotoxic cells (p = 0.0458) and Treg (p = 0.0293), and cells from RSA women. Impaired expression of TIM-3 (p = 0.0226) and VISTA (p = 0.0039) on CD8 cytotoxic T and NK (TIM3 p = 0.0482; VISTA p = 0.0118) cells was shown, with an accompanying increased expression of TIGIT (p = 0.0211) on NKT cells. The changes in the expression of surface immune checkpoints indicate their involvement in the regulation of pregnancy. The data might be utilized to develop specific therapies for RSA women based on the modulation of ICP expression.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Female
- Pregnancy
- Abortion, Habitual/immunology
- Abortion, Habitual/metabolism
- Abortion, Habitual/blood
- Adult
- Biomarkers/blood
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Immune Checkpoint Proteins/metabolism
- Immune Checkpoint Proteins/genetics
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/metabolism
- Immunophenotyping
- Leukocytes, Mononuclear/metabolism
- Leukocytes, Mononuclear/immunology
- Natural Killer T-Cells/immunology
- Natural Killer T-Cells/metabolism
- Antigens, CD/metabolism
- Hepatitis A Virus Cellular Receptor 2/metabolism
- Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Zych
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Nowogrodzka 59, 02-006 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Kniotek
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Nowogrodzka 59, 02-006 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksander Roszczyk
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Nowogrodzka 59, 02-006 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Filip Dąbrowski
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Medical Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, CMKP, Marymoncka 99/103, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland
- Club35, Polish Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists PTGiP, Cybernetyki7F/87, 02-677 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert Jędra
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Medical Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, CMKP, Marymoncka 99/103, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Radosław Zagożdżon
- Laboratory of Cellular and Genetic Therapies, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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Huang X, Lin H, Zhao Y, Wang P, Ying H, Zhang S, Liu L. MUC16 can Predict the Pregnancy Outcomes in Human and Intraperitoneal Administration of MUC16 can Rescue Pregnancy Losses in Mouse Models. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2354-2370. [PMID: 38622477 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01550-7] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Mucin 16 (MUC16) participates in the process of embryo implantation, but few studies have examined the association between MUC16 and pregnancy loss. To investigate this association, the expression of MUC16 in serum and decidua was compared between women with pregnancy loss and ongoing pregnancies. In vitro experiments and animal models were used to explore the role and underlying mechanisms of MUC16 in pregnancy loss. In human study, the expression of MUC16 in serum and decidua was both consistently lower in the women with pregnancy loss compared with those in women with ongoing pregnancies. In vitro experiments revealed the interaction of MUC16 with peripheral blood natural killer (pNK) cells. MUC16 changed the phenotype and reduced the pro-inflammation ability of pNK cells. MUC16 also inhibited the cytotoxicity of pNK cells through the Src homology region 2 domain-containing phosphatase-1/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (SHP-ERK) pathway. Furthermore, MUC16 promoted the migration, invasion and tube formation of trophoblast cells by co-culturing together with pNK cells. In vivo experiments, the mouse model of abortion was used to further confirm that intraperitoneal administration of MUC16 could rescue the pregnancy loss. This study reveals the still-unknown connection between MUC16 and pNK cells and indicates that MUC16 provides a novel method for future prediction and treatment of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Huang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huizhen Lin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peixin Wang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hanqi Ying
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China.
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Wang X, Wang S, Xu X, Jiang Y, Ren L, Zhang H, Li Z, Liu X, Hu X, Ren Y. The effect of Toxoplasma gondii infection on galectin-9 expression in decidual macrophages contributing to dysfunction of decidual NK cells during pregnancy. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:299. [PMID: 38987795 PMCID: PMC11234737 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06379-2] [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: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii infection causes adverse pregnancy outcomes by affecting the expression of immunotolerant molecules in decidual immune cells. Galectin-9 (Gal-9) is widely expressed in decidual macrophages (dMφ) and is crucial for maintaining normal pregnancy by interacting with the immunomodulatory protein T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing molecule 3 (Tim-3). However, the effects of T. gondii infection on Gal-9 expression in dMφ, and the impact of altered Gal-9 expression levels on the maternal-fetal tolerance function of decidual natural killer (dNK) cells, are still unknown. METHODS Pregnancy outcomes of T. gondii-infected C57BL/6 and Lgals9-/- pregnant mice models were recorded. Expression of Gal-9, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), phosphorylated JNK (p-JNK), and Forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) was detected by western blotting, flow cytometry or immunofluorescence. The binding of FOXO1 to the promoter of Lgals9 was determined by chromatin immunoprecipitation-polymerase chain reaction (ChIP-PCR). The expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), phosphorylated ERK (p-ERK), cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB), phosphorylated CREB (p-CREB), T-box expressed in T cells (T-bet), interleukin 10 (IL-10), and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) in dNK cells was assayed by western blotting. RESULTS Toxoplasma gondii infection increased the expression of p-JNK and FOXO1 in dMφ, resulting in a reduction in Gal-9 due to the elevated binding of FOXO1 with Lgals9 promoter. Downregulation of Gal-9 enhanced the phosphorylation of ERK, inhibited the expression of p-CREB and IL-10, and promoted the expression of T-bet and IFN-γ in dNK cells. In the mice model, knockout of Lgals9 aggravated adverse pregnancy outcomes caused by T. gondii infection during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Toxoplasma gondii infection suppressed Gal-9 expression in dMφ by activating the JNK/FOXO1 signaling pathway, and reduction of Gal-9 contributed to dysfunction of dNK via Gal-9/Tim-3 interaction. This study provides new insights for the molecular mechanisms of the adverse pregnancy outcomes caused by T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyan Wang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuzhu Jiang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Liqin Ren
- Department of Microbiology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhidan Li
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianbing Liu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemei Hu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yushan Ren
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Mei J, Wu B, Li M, Ma L, Yang X, Ma Y, Huang Y. Effect of Cyclosporine A on Th1/Th2 Cytokine Production by Decidual Stromal Cells Mediated by Trophoblast-derived Galectin-9. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:1903-1914. [PMID: 38273122 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01431-5] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of cyclosporine A (CsA) on secretion of Th1 and Th2 cytokines by decidual stromal cells (DSCs) mediated by galectin (Gal)-9.HTR8/SVneo cells and primary trophoblasts were used for in vitro studies. Gal-9 expression was measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, CsA was used to regulate Gal-9 expression in trophoblasts. DSCs were treated with trophoblast supernatant and changes in Th1 and Th2 cytokine levels were analyzed. Changes in DSC levels of the T-cell immunoglobulin mucin receptor 3 (TIM-3) levels in DSCs after treatment with Gal-9 were assessed. Western blotting and ERK and AKT inhibitors were used to assess the involvement of the corresponding signaling pathways. Gal-9 was expressed by both primary trophoblasts and HTR8/SVneo cells. CsA treatment increased Gal-9 secretion by trophoblasts, which in turn increased IL-6 (Th2 cytokine) and decreased TNF-α and IFN-γ (Th1 cytokines) secretion in DSCs. Upon downregulation of trophoblast Gal-9 secretion, DSCs secreted lower levels of Th2 cytokines and higher levels of Th1 cytokines, and the effect was reversed by addition of CsA. TIM-3 expression changed in parallel with Gal-9 secretion. CsA treatment upregulated expression of Gal-9 in trophoblasts, promoted secretion of Th2 cytokines, and inhibited secretion of Th1 cytokines via ERK signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoqi Mei
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Bangyong Wu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Mengyongwei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Lina Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xiaohui Yang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Yanlin Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China.
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
| | - Yuanhua Huang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China.
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
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5
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Li Y, Sang Y, Chang Y, Xu C, Lin Y, Zhang Y, Chiu PCN, Yeung WSB, Zhou H, Dong N, Xu L, Chen J, Zhao W, Liu L, Yu D, Zang X, Ye J, Yang J, Wu Q, Li D, Wu L, Du M. A Galectin-9-Driven CD11c high Decidual Macrophage Subset Suppresses Uterine Vascular Remodeling in Preeclampsia. Circulation 2024; 149:1670-1688. [PMID: 38314577 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.064391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia is a serious disease of pregnancy that lacks early diagnosis methods or effective treatment, except delivery. Dysregulated uterine immune cells and spiral arteries are implicated in preeclampsia, but the mechanistic link remains unclear. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics were used to identify immune cell subsets associated with preeclampsia. Cell-based studies and animal models including conditional knockout mice and a new preeclampsia mouse model induced by recombinant mouse galectin-9 were applied to validate the pathogenic role of a CD11chigh subpopulation of decidual macrophages (dMφ) and to determine its underlying regulatory mechanisms in preeclampsia. A retrospective preeclampsia cohort study was performed to determine the value of circulating galectin-9 in predicting preeclampsia. RESULTS We discovered a distinct CD11chigh dMφ subset that inhibits spiral artery remodeling in preeclampsia. The proinflammatory CD11chigh dMφ exhibits perivascular enrichment in the decidua from patients with preeclampsia. We also showed that trophoblast-derived galectin-9 activates CD11chigh dMφ by means of CD44 binding to suppress spiral artery remodeling. In 3 independent preeclampsia mouse models, placental and plasma galectin-9 levels were elevated. Galectin-9 administration in mice induces preeclampsia-like phenotypes with increased CD11chigh dMφ and defective spiral arteries, whereas galectin-9 blockade or macrophage-specific CD44 deletion prevents such phenotypes. In pregnant women, increased circulating galectin-9 levels in the first trimester and at 16 to 20 gestational weeks can predict subsequent preeclampsia onset. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight a key role of a distinct perivascular inflammatory CD11chigh dMφ subpopulation in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. CD11chigh dMφ activated by increased galectin-9 from trophoblasts suppresses uterine spiral artery remodeling, contributing to preeclampsia. Increased circulating galectin-9 may be a biomarker for preeclampsia prediction and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Li
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Clinical Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China (Y. Li, Y. Lin, W.Z., J. Yang, M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University Shanghai, China (Y. Li, M.D.)
| | - Yifei Sang
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Yunjian Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China (Y.C., Y.Z., H.Z., L.W.)
| | - Chunfang Xu
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Yikong Lin
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Yao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China (Y.C., Y.Z., H.Z., L.W.)
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, China (P.C.N.C., W.S.B.Y.)
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China (P.C.N.C., W.S.B.Y.)
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, China (P.C.N.C., W.S.B.Y.)
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China (P.C.N.C., W.S.B.Y.)
| | - Haisheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China (Y.C., Y.Z., H.Z., L.W.)
| | - Ningzheng Dong
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Prevention, Soochow University, Suzhou, China (N.D., Q.W.)
| | - Ling Xu
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Weijie Zhao
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Clinical Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China (Y. Li, Y. Lin, W.Z., J. Yang, M.D.)
| | - Lu Liu
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Di Yu
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute (D.Y.), Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Ian Frazer Centre for Children's Immunotherapy Research, Child Health Research Centre (D.Y.), Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Xingxing Zang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY (X.Z.)
| | - Jiangfeng Ye
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore City, Singapore (J. Ye)
| | - Jinying Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Clinical Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China (Y. Li, Y. Lin, W.Z., J. Yang, M.D.)
| | - Qingyu Wu
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Prevention, Soochow University, Suzhou, China (N.D., Q.W.)
| | - Dajin Li
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Ligang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China (Y.C., Y.Z., H.Z., L.W.)
| | - Meirong Du
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Clinical Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China (Y. Li, Y. Lin, W.Z., J. Yang, M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University Shanghai, China (Y. Li, M.D.)
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR, China (M.D.)
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6
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Long Y, Lu KJ, Xia CS, Feng JH, Li WY, Ma YT, Sun YY, Fan CH, Li C. Altered CD226/TIGIT expressions were associated with NK phenotypes in primary antiphospholipid syndrome and affected by IL-4/JAK pathway. Clin Exp Immunol 2024; 216:132-145. [PMID: 38386917 PMCID: PMC11036109 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxae016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells were reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of primary antiphospholipid syndrome (pAPS). Immunosuppressive receptor T-cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT) and activating receptor cluster of differentiation 226 (CD226) are specifically expressed on NK cells with competitive functions. This study aims to investigate the expression diversities of CD226/TIGIT on NK subsets and their associations with NK subsets activation phenotypes and potential clinical significance, furthermore, to explore potential cause for CD226/TIGIT expression diversities in pAPS. We comparatively assessed the changes of CD56brightNK, CD56dimNK, and NK-like cells in 70 pAPS patients compared with control groups, including systemic lupus erythematosus, asymptomatic antiphospholipid antibodies carriers (asymp-aPLs carriers), and healthy controls and their expression diversities of CD226/TIGIT by flow cytometry. CD25, CD69, CD107α expression, and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) secretion levels of NK subsets were detected to determine the potential association of CD226/TIGIT expression with NK subsets phenotypes. CD226/TIGIT expression levels were compared among different subgroups divided by aPLs status. Moreover, in vitro cultures were conducted to explore the potential mechanisms of CD226/TIGIT expression imbalance. CD56brightNK and CD3+CD56+NK-like cells were significantly increased while CD56dimNK cells were obviously decreased in pAPS, and CD56brightNK and NK-like cells exhibited significantly higher CD226 but lower TIGIT expressions. CD226+CD56brightNK and TIGIT-CD56brightNK cells show higher CD69 expression and IFN-γ secretion capacity, and CD226+NK-like and TIGIT-NK-like cells showed higher expressions of CD25 and CD69 but lower apoptosis rate than CD226- and TIGIT+CD56brightNK/NK-like cells, respectively. The imbalanced CD226/TIGIT expressions were most significant in aPLs triple-positive group. Imbalanced expressions of CD226/TIGIT on CD56brightNK and NK-like cells were aggravated after interleukin-4 (IL-4) stimulation and recovered after tofacitinib blocking. Our data revealed significant imbalanced CD226/TIGIT expressions on NK subsets in pAPS, which closely associated with NK subsets phenotypes and more complicated autoantibody status. CD226/TIGIT imbalanced may be affected by IL-4/Janus Kinase (JAK) pathway activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Long
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ke-Jia Lu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Protein Posttranslational Modifications and Cell Function, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Chang-Sheng Xia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Hong Feng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wen-Yi Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yin-Ting Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Hong Fan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chun Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
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7
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Gothe JP, de Mattos AC, Silveira CF, Malavazi KC. Exploring Natural Killer Cell Testing in Embryo Implantation and Reproductive Failure: An Overview of Techniques and Controversies. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:603-632. [PMID: 37853155 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01372-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
The blastocyst nidation is the most crucial stage to a successful pregnancy, as the white cells work to promote a favorable endometrial microenvironment for this process. Intriguingly, this implantation window lasts, on average, 6 days in most regular women, and its quality is affected by many pathological conditions. Since the grounds of reproductive failure in healthy couples are still uncharted, studies have widely suggested a potential hostile role of the immune system in the equilibrium of the maternal-fetal interface. In recent years, natural killer cells have been the highlight as they represent the greatest lymphocyte in the uterus and have immune surveillance through cytotoxicity during the implantation window. This review explored the main techniques used for natural killer (NK) cell testing in the implantation window over the last 13 years on the PubMed® database. Of 2167 published articles potentially relevant for the review, only thirty-three were about cell evaluation in healthy women, met the inclusion criteria, and had their methodology critically analyzed. Here, we bring a summary from the study group and sample collection to evidence comments about their findings and correlations. Meanwhile, we also summarize the current relationship between NK cells and endometrial receptivity with reproductive failure to help enhance the possibilities for future research. In conclusion, our overview points out that restricted and unstandardized methods support the controversy between the NK population and unsuccessful embryo implantation, which is an obstacle to studying why healthy eggs do not thrive and finding a solution for one of the most controversial topics in human reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Peron Gothe
- Faculdade de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Av. John Boyd Dunlop S/N - Jardim Ipaussurama, Campinas, São Paulo, 13034-685, Brazil.
| | - Amílcar Castro de Mattos
- Faculdade de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Av. John Boyd Dunlop S/N - Jardim Ipaussurama, Campinas, São Paulo, 13034-685, Brazil
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8
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Lv Y, Ma X, Ma Y, Du Y, Feng J. A new emerging target in cancer immunotherapy: Galectin-9 (LGALS9). Genes Dis 2023; 10:2366-2382. [PMID: 37554219 PMCID: PMC10404877 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, advances in immunological knowledge have led to the identification of novel immune checkpoints, reinvigorating cancer immunotherapy. Immunotherapy, represented by immune checkpoint inhibitors, has become the leader in the precision treatment of cancer, bringing a new dawn to the treatment of most cancer patients. Galectin-9 (LGALS9), a member of the galectin family, is a widely expressed protein involved in immune regulation and tumor pathogenesis, and affects the prognosis of various types of cancer. Galectin-9 regulates immune homeostasis and tumor cell survival through its interaction with its receptor Tim-3. In the review, based on a brief description of the signaling mechanisms and immunomodulatory activities of galectin-9 and Tim-3, we summarize the targeted expression patterns of galectin-9 in a variety of malignancies and the promising mechanisms of anti-galectin-9 therapy in stimulating anti-tumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lv
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Yuxin Ma
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Yuxin Du
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Jifeng Feng
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
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9
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Zhao F, Tallarek AC, Wang Y, Xie Y, Diemert A, Lu-Culligan A, Vijayakumar P, Kittmann E, Urbschat C, Bayo J, Arck PC, Farhadian SF, Dveksler GS, Garcia MG, Blois SM. A unique maternal and placental galectin signature upon SARS-CoV-2 infection suggests galectin-1 as a key alarmin at the maternal-fetal interface. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1196395. [PMID: 37475853 PMCID: PMC10354452 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1196395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic imposed a risk of infection and disease in pregnant women and neonates. Successful pregnancy requires a fine-tuned regulation of the maternal immune system to accommodate the growing fetus and to protect the mother from infection. Galectins, a family of β-galactoside-binding proteins, modulate immune and inflammatory processes and have been recognized as critical factors in reproductive orchestration, including maternal immune adaptation in pregnancy. Pregnancy-specific glycoprotein 1 (PSG1) is a recently identified gal-1 ligand at the maternal-fetal interface, which may facilitate a successful pregnancy. Several studies suggest that galectins are involved in the immune response in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. However, the galectins and PSG1 signature upon SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination during pregnancy remain unclear. In the present study, we examined the maternal circulating levels of galectins (gal-1, gal-3, gal-7, and gal-9) and PSG1 in pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 before vaccination or uninfected women who were vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 and correlated their expression with different pregnancy parameters. SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination during pregnancy provoked an increase in maternal gal-1 circulating levels. On the other hand, levels of PSG1 were only augmented upon SARS-CoV-2 infection. A healthy pregnancy is associated with a positive correlation between gal-1 concentrations and gal-3 or gal-9; however, no correlation was observed between these lectins during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Transcriptome analysis of the placenta showed that gal-1, gal-3, and several PSG and glycoenzymes responsible for the synthesis of gal-1-binding glycotopes (such as linkage-specific N-acetyl-glucosaminyltransferases (MGATs)) are upregulated in pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2. Collectively, our findings identify a dynamically regulated "galectin-specific signature" that accompanies the SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination in pregnancy, and they highlight a potentially significant role for gal-1 as a key pregnancy protective alarmin during virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangqi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ann-Christin Tallarek
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yiru Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yiran Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anke Diemert
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alice Lu-Culligan
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Pavithra Vijayakumar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Enrico Kittmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Urbschat
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Juan Bayo
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Traslacional, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) - Universidad Austral, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Petra C. Arck
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Shelli F. Farhadian
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Gabriela S. Dveksler
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Mariana G. Garcia
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sandra M. Blois
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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10
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Zhang Y, Liu Z, Sun H. Fetal-maternal interactions during pregnancy: a 'three-in-one' perspective. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1198430. [PMID: 37350956 PMCID: PMC10282753 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1198430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A successful human pregnancy requires the maternal immune system to recognize and tolerate the semi-allogeneic fetus, allowing for appropriate trophoblasts invasion and protecting the fetus from invading pathogens. Therefore, maternal immunity is critical for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy, especially at the maternal-fetal interface. Anatomically, the maternal-fetal interface has both maternally- and fetally- derived cells, including fetal originated trophoblasts and maternal derived immune cells and stromal cells. Besides, a commensal microbiota in the uterus was supposed to aid the unique immunity in pregnancy. The appropriate crosstalk between fetal derived and maternal originated cells and uterine microbiota are critical for normal pregnancy. Dysfunctional maternal-fetal interactions might be associated with the development of pregnancy complications. This review elaborates the latest knowledge on the interactions between trophoblasts and decidual immune cells, highlighting their critical roles in maternal-fetal tolerance and pregnancy development. We also characterize the role of commensal bacteria in promoting pregnancy progression. Furthermore, this review may provide new thought on future basic research and the development of clinical applications for pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghong Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhaozhao Liu
- Reproduction Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, ZhengZhou, China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
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11
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Roles of N-linked glycosylation and glycan-binding proteins in placentation: trophoblast infiltration, immunomodulation, angiogenesis, and pathophysiology. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:639-653. [PMID: 36929183 DOI: 10.1042/bst20221406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Protein N-linked glycosylation is a structurally diverse post-translational modification that stores biological information in a larger order of magnitude than other post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination and acetylation. This gives N-glycosylated proteins a diverse range of properties and allows glyco-codes (glycan-related information) to be deciphered by glycan-binding proteins (GBPs). The intervillous space of the placenta is richly populated with membrane-bound and secreted glycoproteins. Evidence exists to suggest that altering the structural nature of their N-glycans can impact several trophoblast functions, which include those related to interactions with decidual cells. This review summarizes trophoblast-related activities influenced by N-glycan-GBP recognition, exploring how different subtypes of trophoblasts actively adapt to characteristics of the decidualized endometrium through cell-specific expression of N-glycosylated proteins, and how these cells receive decidua-derived signals via N-glycan-GBP interactions. We highlight work on how changes in N-glycosylation relates to the success of trophoblast infiltration, interactions of immunomodulators, and uterine angiogenesis. We also discuss studies that suggest aberrant N-glycosylation of trophoblasts may contribute to the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications (e.g. pre-eclampsia, early spontaneous miscarriages and hydatidiform mole). We propose that a more in-depth understanding of how N-glycosylation shapes trophoblast phenotype during early pregnancy has the potential to improve our approach to predicting, diagnosing and alleviating poor maternal/fetal outcomes associated with placental dysfunction.
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12
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Esparvarinha M, Madadi S, Aslanian-Kalkhoran L, Nickho H, Dolati S, Pia H, Danaii S, Taghavi S, Yousefi M. Dominant immune cells in pregnancy and pregnancy complications: T helper cells (TH1/TH2, TH17/Treg cells), NK cells, MDSCs, and the immune checkpoints. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:507-519. [PMID: 36335635 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy problems including recurrent pregnancy loss, repeated implantation failure and pre-eclampsia are common problems in the reproductive ages. Different reasons such as genetic, immunological, and environmental agents and also infections could develop these complications. In those cases in which the cause of the abortion is diagnosed, the chance of a successful pregnancy is increased by eliminating defective factors. However, in patients with unknown causes, there may be an imbalance in immune cells pattern. As a matter of fact, an inappropriate immune response is often associated with a failed pregnancy. Hence, the focus of treatment is to increase tolerance, not to suppress maternal immune system. These findings are linked to an elevated number of Treg cells and immune checkpoints through normal pregnancy. The present review discusses the balance of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, natural killer cells, T cells, and immune checkpoints, and also targeting them to maintain pregnancy and prevent associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Esparvarinha
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sahar Madadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Lida Aslanian-Kalkhoran
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Nickho
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanam Dolati
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Helen Pia
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shahla Danaii
- Gynecology Department, Eastern Azerbaijan ACECR ART Centre, Eastern Azerbaijan branch of ACECR, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Simin Taghavi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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13
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Jiang S, Huang X. Host responses against the fish parasitizing ciliate Cryptocaryon irritans. Parasite Immunol 2023; 45:e12967. [PMID: 36606416 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The parasitic ciliate Cryptocaryon irritans, which infects almost all marine fish species occurring in both tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world. The disease, cryptocaryonosis, accounts for significant economic losses to the aquaculture industry. This review attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of the biology of the parasite, host-parasite interactions and both specific and non-specific host defense mechanisms are responsible for the protection of fish against challenge infections with this ciliate. Also, this article reflects the current interest in this subject area and the quest to develop an available vaccine against the disease. Due to the high frequency of clinical fish cryptocaryonosis, the study of fish immune responses to C. irritans provides an optimal experimental model for understanding immunity against extracellular protozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuiqing Jiang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Developmental and Neural Biology, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaohong Huang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Developmental and Neural Biology, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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14
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Kapetanakis NI, Busson P. Galectins as pivotal components in oncogenesis and immune exclusion in human malignancies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1145268. [PMID: 36817445 PMCID: PMC9935586 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1145268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Galectins are galactoside-binding proteins, exerting numerous functions inside and outside the cell, particularly conferring adaptation to stress factors. For most of them, aberrant expression profiles have been reported in the context of cancer. Albeit not being oncogenic drivers, galectins can be harnessed to exacerbate the malignant phenotype. Their impact on disease establishment and progression is not limited to making cancer cells resistant to apoptosis, but is prominent in the context of the tumor microenvironment, where it fosters angiogenesis, immune escape and exclusion. This review focuses mainly on Gal-1, Gal-3 and Gal-9 for which the involvement in cancer biology is best known. It presents the types of galectin dysregulations, attempts to explain the mechanisms behind them and analyzes the different ways in which they favor tumour growth. In an era where tumour resistance to immunotherapy appears as a major challenge, we highlight the crucial immunosuppressive roles of galectins and the potential therapeutic benefits of combinatorial approaches including galectin inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pierre Busson
- Host-Tumor Interactions in Head and Neck Carcinoma: Exploration and Therapeutic Modulations, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Unité Mixte de Recherche(UMR) 9018 - METabolic and SYstemic aspects of oncogenesis for new therapeutic approaches (METSY), Gustave Roussy and Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
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15
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Chen Y, Xiao L, Xu J, Wang J, Yu Z, Zhao K, Zhang H, Cheng S, Sharma S, Liao A, Liu C. Recent insight into autophagy and immunity at the maternal-fetal interface. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 155:103781. [PMID: 36463798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy is a lysosomal degradation pathway that supports metabolic adaptation and energy cycling. It is essential for cell homeostasis, differentiation, development, and survival. Recent studies have shown that autophagy could influence immune responses by regulating immune cell functions. Reciprocally, immune cells strongly influence autophagy. Immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface are thought to play essential roles in pregnancy. Here, we review the induction of autophagy at the maternal-fetal interface and its role in decidualization and placental development. Additionally, we emphasize the role of autophagy in the immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface, including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and immune tolerance molecules. It also suggests new research directions and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Lin Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Jia Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Jingming Wang
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Zhiquan Yu
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Shibin Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Surendra Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
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16
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Pang B, Hu C, Li H, Nie X, Wang K, Zhou C, Yi H. Myeloidderived suppressor cells: Escorts at the maternal-fetal interface. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1080391. [PMID: 36817414 PMCID: PMC9932974 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1080391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a novel heterogenous group of immunosuppressive cells derived from myeloid progenitors. Their role is well known in tumors and autoimmune diseases. In recent years, the role and function of MDSCs during reproduction have attracted increasing attention. Improving the understanding of their strong association with recurrent implantation failure, pathological pregnancy, and neonatal health has become a focus area in research. In this review, we focus on the interaction between MDSCs and other cell types (immune and non-immune cells) from embryo implantation to postpartum. Furthermore, we discuss the molecular mechanisms that could facilitate the therapeutic targeting of MDSCs. Therefore, this review intends to encourage further research in the field of maternal-fetal interface immunity in order to identify probable pathways driving the accumulation of MDSCs and to effectively target their ability to promote embryo implantation, reduce pathological pregnancy, and increase neonatal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Pang
- Central Laboratory, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Cardiology Department, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Cong Hu
- Central Laboratory, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Prenatal Diagnosis Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Huimin Li
- Central Laboratory, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xinyu Nie
- Central Laboratory, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Prenatal Diagnosis Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Keqi Wang
- Central Laboratory, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Cardiology Department, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Chen Zhou
- General Department, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Huanfa Yi
- Central Laboratory, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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17
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Tim-3: An inhibitory immune checkpoint is associated with maternal-fetal tolerance and recurrent spontaneous abortion. Clin Immunol 2022; 245:109185. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2022.109185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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18
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Xie H, Li Z, Zheng G, Yang C, Liu X, Xu X, Ren Y, Wang C, Hu X. Tim-3 downregulation by Toxoplasma gondii infection contributes to decidual dendritic cell dysfunction. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:393. [PMID: 36303229 PMCID: PMC9615254 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05506-1] [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: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Women in early pregnancy infected by Toxoplasma gondii may have severe adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as spontaneous abortion and fetal malformation. The inhibitory molecule T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) is highly expressed on decidual dendritic cells (dDCs) and plays an important role in maintaining immune tolerance. However, whether T. gondii infection can cause dDC dysfunction by influencing the expression of Tim-3 and further participate in adverse pregnancy outcomes is still unclear. Methods An abnormal pregnancy model in Tim-3-deficient mice and primary human dDCs treated with Tim-3 neutralizing antibodies were used to examine the effect of Tim-3 expression on dDC dysfunction after T. gondii infection. Results Following T. gondii infection, the expression of Tim-3 on dDCs was downregulated, those of the pro-inflammatory functional molecules CD80, CD86, MHC-II, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-12 (IL-12) were increased, while those of the tolerant molecules indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were significantly reduced. Tim-3 downregulation by T. gondii infection was closely associated with an increase in proinflammatory molecules and a decrease in tolerant molecules, which further resulted in dDC dysfunction. Moreover, the changes in Tim-3 induced by T. gondii infection further reduced the secretion of the cytokine IL-10 via the SRC-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, which ultimately contributed to abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Conclusions Toxoplasma gondii infection can significantly downregulate the expression of Tim-3 and cause the aberrant expression of functional molecules in dDCs. This leads to dDC dysfunction, which can ultimately contribute to abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Further, the expression of the anti-inflammatory molecule IL-10 was significantly decreased by Tim-3 downregulation, which was mediated by the SRC-STAT3 signaling pathway in dDCs after T. gondii infection. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05506-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbing Xie
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhidan Li
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangmei Zheng
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunyan Yang
- Department of Oral Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianbing Liu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yushan Ren
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemei Hu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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19
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Rio-Aige K, Girbal M, Selma-Royo M, Parra-Llorca A, González S, Martínez-Costa C, Castell M, Collado MC, Pérez-Cano FJ, Rodríguez-Lagunas MJ. Galectins-1, -3 and -9 Are Present in Breast Milk and Have a Role in Early Life Development. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14204338. [PMID: 36297023 PMCID: PMC9611974 DOI: 10.3390/nu14204338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins (Gal) are a family of conserved soluble proteins with high affinity for β-galactoside structures. They have been recognized as important proteins for successful pregnancy. However, little is known about their presence in breast milk and their role in early infancy. Gal-1, -3 and -9 concentrations were evaluated by Multiplex immunoassays in mother–infant pairs from the MAMI cohort in maternal plasma (MP) (n = 15) and umbilical cord plasma (UCP) (n = 15) at birth and in breast milk samples (n = 23) at days 7 and 15 postpartum. Data regarding mother and infant characteristics were collected. Gal-9 was present in a lower concentration range than Gal-1 and Gal-3 in plasma, specifically in UCP. A major finding in the current study is that Gal-1, -3 and -9 were detected for the first time in all the transitional breast milk samples and no differences were found when comparing the two breastfeeding time points. Finally, Gal levels were associated with some maternal and infant characteristics, such as gestational age, pregnancy weight gain, maternal diet, the gender, infant growth and infant infections. In conclusion, Gal levels seem to be involved in certain developmental aspects of early life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Rio-Aige
- Physiology Section, Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Nutrition and Food Safety Research Institute (INSA-UB), 08921 Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain
| | - Marina Girbal
- Physiology Section, Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Nutrition and Food Safety Research Institute (INSA-UB), 08921 Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain
| | - Marta Selma-Royo
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA-CSIC), National Research Council, 46980 Valencia, Spain
| | - Anna Parra-Llorca
- Neonatal Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Sonia González
- Department of Functional Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oviedo, 33071 Oviedo, Spain
- Diet, Microbiota and Health Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (DIMISA, ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Cecilia Martínez-Costa
- Department of Pediatrics, INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibáñez 15-17, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Margarida Castell
- Physiology Section, Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Nutrition and Food Safety Research Institute (INSA-UB), 08921 Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain
| | - María Carmen Collado
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA-CSIC), National Research Council, 46980 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Pérez-Cano
- Physiology Section, Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Nutrition and Food Safety Research Institute (INSA-UB), 08921 Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - María J. Rodríguez-Lagunas
- Physiology Section, Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Nutrition and Food Safety Research Institute (INSA-UB), 08921 Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain
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20
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Shojaei Z, Jafarpour R, Mehdizadeh S, Bayatipoor H, Pashangzadeh S, Motallebnezhad M. Functional prominence of natural killer cells and natural killer T cells in pregnancy and infertility: A comprehensive review and update. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 238:154062. [PMID: 35987030 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.154062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, complicated connections are formed between a mother and a fetus. In a successful pregnancy, the maternal-fetal interface is affected by dynamic changes, and the fetus is protected against the mother's immune system. Natural killer (NK) cells are one of the immune system cells in the female reproductive system that play an essential role in the physiology of pregnancy. NK cells not only exist in peripheral blood (PB) but also can exist in the decidua. Studies have suggested multiple roles for these cells, including decidualization, control of trophoblast growth and invasion, embryo acceptance and maintenance by the mother, and facilitation of placental development during pregnancy. Natural killer T (NKT) cells are another group of NK cells that play a crucial role in the maintenance of pregnancy and regulation of the immune system during pregnancy. Studies show that NK and NKT cells are not only effective in maintaining pregnancy but also can be involved in infertility-related diseases. This review focuses on NK and NKT cells biology and provides a detailed description of the functions of these cells in implantation, placentation, and immune tolerance during pregnancy and their role in pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Shojaei
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Jafarpour
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saber Mehdizadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hashem Bayatipoor
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Salar Pashangzadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Motallebnezhad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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21
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BST2, a Novel Inhibitory Receptor, Is Involved in NK Cell Cytotoxicity through Its Cytoplasmic Tail Domain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911395. [PMID: 36232695 PMCID: PMC9570199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone Marrow Stromal Cell Antigen 2 (BST2) is a type II transmembrane protein expressed on various cell types that tethers the release of viruses. Natural killer (NK) cells express low levels of BST2 under normal conditions but exhibit increased expression of BST2 upon activation. In this study, we show for the first time that murine BST2 can control the cytotoxicity of NK cells. The cytoplasmic tail of murine BST2 contains an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM). The absence of BST2 on NK cells can enhance their cytotoxicity against tumor cells compared to wild type NK cells. NK cells isolated from NZW mice, which express ITIM-deficient BST2, also showed higher cytotoxicity than wild type NK cells. In addition, we found that galectin-8 and galectin-9 were ligands of BST2, since blocking galectin-8 or -9 with monoclonal antibodies enhanced the cytotoxicity of NK cells. These results suggested that BST2 might be a novel NK cell inhibitory receptor as it was involved in regulating NK cell cytotoxicity through its interaction with galectins.
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22
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The Regulators of Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091275. [PMID: 36139114 PMCID: PMC9496326 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091275] [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: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several factors are important for implantation and subsequent placentation in the endometrium, including immunity, angiogenesis, extracellular matrix, glucose metabolism, reactive oxidative stress, and hormones. The involvement or abnormality of these factors can impair canonical decidualization. Unusual decidualization can lead to perinatal complications, such as disruption of trophoblast invasion. Drastic changes in the morphology and function of human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) are important for decidualization of the human endometrium; hESCs are used to induce optimal morphological and functional decidualization in vitro because they contain estrogen and progesterone receptors. In this review, we will focus on the studies that have been conducted on hESC decidualization, including the results from our laboratory.
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23
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Chen M, Shi JL, Zheng ZM, Lin Z, Li MQ, Shao J. Galectins: Important Regulators in Normal and Pathologic Pregnancies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710110. [PMID: 36077508 PMCID: PMC9456357 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins (Gal) are characterized by their affinity for galactoside structures on glycoconjugates. This relationship is mediated by carbohydrate recognition domains, which are multifunctional regulators of basic cellular biological processes with high structural similarity among family members. They participate in both innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as in reproductive immunology. Recently, the discovery that galectins are highly expressed at the maternal–fetal interface has garnerd the interest of experts in human reproduction. Galectins are involved in a variety of functions such as maternal–fetal immune tolerance, angiogenesis, trophoblast invasion and placental development and are considered to be important mediators of successful embryo implantation and during pregnancy. Dysregulation of these galectins is associated with abnormal and pathological pregnancies (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth). Our work reviews the regulatory mechanisms of galectins in normal and pathological pregnancies and has implications for clinicians in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jia-Lu Shi
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zi-Meng Zheng
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zhi Lin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Correspondence: (M.-Q.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Jun Shao
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Department of Obstetrics, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Correspondence: (M.-Q.L.); (J.S.)
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24
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Kaur G, Porter CBM, Ashenberg O, Lee J, Riesenfeld SJ, Hofree M, Aggelakopoulou M, Subramanian A, Kuttikkatte SB, Attfield KE, Desel CAE, Davies JL, Evans HG, Avraham-Davidi I, Nguyen LT, Dionne DA, Neumann AE, Jensen LT, Barber TR, Soilleux E, Carrington M, McVean G, Rozenblatt-Rosen O, Regev A, Fugger L. Mouse fetal growth restriction through parental and fetal immune gene variation and intercellular communications cascade. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4398. [PMID: 35906236 PMCID: PMC9338297 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32171-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects 5-10% of pregnancies, and can have serious consequences for both mother and child. Prevention and treatment are limited because FGR pathogenesis is poorly understood. Genetic studies implicate KIR and HLA genes in FGR, however, linkage disequilibrium, genetic influence from both parents, and challenges with investigating human pregnancies make the risk alleles and their functional effects difficult to map. Here, we demonstrate that the interaction between the maternal KIR2DL1, expressed on uterine natural killer (NK) cells, and the paternally inherited HLA-C*0501, expressed on fetal trophoblast cells, leads to FGR in a humanized mouse model. We show that the KIR2DL1 and C*0501 interaction leads to pathogenic uterine arterial remodeling and modulation of uterine NK cell function. This initial effect cascades to altered transcriptional expression and intercellular communication at the maternal-fetal interface. These findings provide mechanistic insight into specific FGR risk alleles, and provide avenues of prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurman Kaur
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Caroline B M Porter
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Orr Ashenberg
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jack Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Samantha J Riesenfeld
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Matan Hofree
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Maria Aggelakopoulou
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Subita Balaram Kuttikkatte
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kathrine E Attfield
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christiane A E Desel
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- University Department of Neurology, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jessica L Davies
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Hayley G Evans
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Inbal Avraham-Davidi
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Lan T Nguyen
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Danielle A Dionne
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Lise Torp Jensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas R Barber
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Elizabeth Soilleux
- Department of Pathology, Tennis Court Rd, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England
| | - Mary Carrington
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gil McVean
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Orit Rozenblatt-Rosen
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aviv Regev
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Biology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
- Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Lars Fugger
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
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25
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Madadi S, Mohammadinejad S, Alizadegan A, Hojjat-Farsangi M, Dolati S, Samadi Kafil H, Jadidi-Niaragh F, Soltani-Zangbar MS, Motavalli R, Etemadi J, Eghbal-Fard S, Aghebati-Maleki L, Danaii S, Taghavi S, Yousefi M. Expression level of immune checkpoint inhibitory factors in preeclampsia. Hum Immunol 2022; 83:628-636. [PMID: 35906120 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a severe complication in pregnancy, and its symptoms (proteinuria and hypertension) manifest after 20 weeks of gestation, affecting up to 8 % of pregnancies. The pregnant women's immune system uses different tolerance mechanisms to deal with a semi-allogeneic fetus. The T-cell subsets including CD8+, CD4+, and Treg play a critical role in maintaining pregnancies. The expression of immune checkpoint molecules in T-cells can ensure pregnancy at the feto-maternal interface by controlling immune responses. This research aims to evaluate the expression level of immune checkpoint factors, including PD-1, LAG-3, CTLA-4, and TIM-3 in normal pregnant women and PE patients. Decidual tissue was collected from 50 participants (25 PE and 25 control). For evaluating the genes expression, real-time PCR was employed. The western blot was used to assess the proteins level. The results of real-time PCR indicated significantly decreased expression level of these immune checkpoints in PE patients. In parallel to gene expression results, the protein level of PD-1, LAG-3, CTLA-4, and TIM-3 in the PE group was also reduced. We revealed that the profile of proteins and genes expression of immune checkpoints in the decidua of PE mothers are different from normal pregnancy and these results indicate aberrant expression of immune checkpoints such as PD-1, LAG-3, CTLA-4, and TIM-3 may cause maladaptation immune response which results in PE manifestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Madadi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sina Mohammadinejad
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amin Alizadegan
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Sanam Dolati
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Samadi Kafil
- Drug Applied Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sadegh Soltani-Zangbar
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Roza Motavalli
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Etemadi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shadi Eghbal-Fard
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Shahla Danaii
- Gynecology Department, Eastern Azerbaijan ACECR ART Center, Eastern Azerbaijan Branch of ACECR, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Simin Taghavi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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26
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Papak I, Chruściel E, Dziubek K, Kurkowiak M, Urban-Wójciuk Z, Marjański T, Rzyman W, Marek-Trzonkowska N. What Inhibits Natural Killers’ Performance in Tumour. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137030. [PMID: 35806034 PMCID: PMC9266640 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells are innate lymphocytes with the ability to lyse tumour cells depending on the balance of their activating and inhibiting receptors. Growing numbers of clinical trials show promising results of NK cell-based immunotherapies. Unlike T cells, NK cells can lyse tumour cells independent of antigen presentation, based simply on their activation and inhibition receptors. Various strategies to improve NK cell-based therapies are being developed, all with one goal: to shift the balance to activation. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of ways NK cells can lyse tumour cells and all the inhibitory signals stopping their cytotoxic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Papak
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdansk, Ul. Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (I.P.); (E.C.); (K.D.); (M.K.); (Z.U.-W.)
| | - Elżbieta Chruściel
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdansk, Ul. Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (I.P.); (E.C.); (K.D.); (M.K.); (Z.U.-W.)
| | - Katarzyna Dziubek
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdansk, Ul. Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (I.P.); (E.C.); (K.D.); (M.K.); (Z.U.-W.)
| | - Małgorzata Kurkowiak
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdansk, Ul. Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (I.P.); (E.C.); (K.D.); (M.K.); (Z.U.-W.)
| | - Zuzanna Urban-Wójciuk
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdansk, Ul. Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (I.P.); (E.C.); (K.D.); (M.K.); (Z.U.-W.)
| | - Tomasz Marjański
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland; (T.M.); (W.R.)
| | - Witold Rzyman
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland; (T.M.); (W.R.)
| | - Natalia Marek-Trzonkowska
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdansk, Ul. Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (I.P.); (E.C.); (K.D.); (M.K.); (Z.U.-W.)
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Cellular Therapies, Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
- Correspondence:
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Xu X, Zhou Y, Fu B, Wei H. Uterine NK cell functions at maternal-fetal interface. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:327-338. [PMID: 35551350 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, maternal decidual tissue interacts with fetal trophoblasts. They constitute the maternal-fetal interface responsible for supplying nutrition to the fetus. Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells are the most abundant immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface during early pregnancy and play critical roles throughout pregnancy. This review provides current knowledge about the functions of uNK cells. uNK cells have been shown to facilitate remodeling of the spiral artery, control the invasion of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells, contribute to the induction and maintenance of immune tolerance, protect against pathogen infection, and promote fetal development. Pregnancy-trained memory of uNK cells improves subsequent pregnancy outcomes. In addition, this review describes the distinct functions of three uNK cell subsets: CD27-CD11b-, CD27+ and CD27-CD11b+ uNK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Xu
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Yonggang Zhou
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Binqing Fu
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
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Zhang T, Zhao Y, Cheung WC, Gan YH, Huang L, Li M, Leung KT, Chung PW, Wang CC, Laird S, Chen X, Li TC. Serial changes in two immune checkpoint receptors and ligands, Tim-3/Gal-9 and PD-1/PD-L1 in peripheral blood prior to miscarriage: Comparison with pregnancies resulting in a live birth. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 87:e13524. [PMID: 35130363 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Immune checkpoints Tim-3/Gal-9 and PD-1/PL-1 are involved in the maintenance of maternal-fetal immune tolerance systematically and locally. This study aimed to compare the serial changes of Tim-3/Gal-9, and PD-1/PL-1 in peripheral blood over a 4-week period after blastocyst transfer, between women who had a live birth and those who miscarried. METHODS OF STUDY Serial blood samples were obtained on the day of ET, and 9, 16, 23, and 30 days after ET for the measurement of Tim-3 and PD-1 expressions on various lymphocytes by flow cytometry. Concentrations of serum Gal-9 and PD-L1 were measured by ELISA. RESULTS In pregnancies that resulted in a live birth, a significant and sustained increase in the proportion of Tim-3+ pNK cells was observed from the 9th to 30th days after ET, whilst the concentration of serum PD-L1 was significantly increased on the 23rd and 30th days after ET when compared to the day of ET. In pregnancies that later miscarried, none of the parameters were significantly changed across all the time points examined. When comparing the results between the two groups, the proportion of Tim-3+ CD56dim NK cells in the women who had a live birth was significantly higher than that in women who miscarried from the 9th to 30th day after ET. CONCLUSION A significant and sustained increase in the proportion of Tim-3+ pNK cells was observed in pregnancies resulting in a live birth but not in pregnancies resulting in a miscarriage, suggesting the changes may be associated with successful pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yiwei Zhao
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wing Ching Cheung
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yong Huang Gan
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lin Huang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Mingqing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kam Tong Leung
- Department of Pediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Piu Wah Chung
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Reproduction and Development Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Susan Laird
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Center, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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29
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Loeuillet C, Dhellemmes M, Cazin C, Kherraf ZE, Fourati Ben Mustapha S, Zouari R, Thierry-Mieg N, Arnoult C, Ray PF. A recurrent ZP1 variant is responsible for Oocyte Maturation Defect with degenerated oocytes in infertile females. Clin Genet 2022; 102:22-29. [PMID: 35460069 PMCID: PMC9327729 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14144] [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: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A female factor is present in approximately 70% of couple infertility, often due to ovulatory disorders. In oocyte maturation defect (OMD), affected patients have a primary infertility with normal menstrual cycles but produce no oocyte, degenerated (atretic) or abnormal oocytes blocked at different stages of maturation. Four genes have so far been associated with OMD: PATL2, TUBB8, WEE2, and ZP1. In our initial study, 6 out of 23 OMD subjects were shown to carry the same PATL2 homozygous loss of function variant and one patient had a TUBB8 truncating variant. Here, we included four additional OMD patients and reanalyzed all 27 subjects. In addition to the seven patients with a previously identified defect, five carried the same deleterious homozygous ZP1 variant (c.1097G>A; p.Arg366Gln). All the oocytes from ZP1‐associated patients appeared shriveled and dark indicating that the abnormal ZP1 protein induced oocyte death and degeneration. Overall ZP1‐associated patients had degenerated or absent oocytes contrary to PATL2‐associated subjects who had immature oocytes blocked mainly at the germinal vesicle stage. In this cohort of North African OMD patients, whole exome sequencing permitted to diagnose 44% of the patients studied and to identify a new frequent ZP1 variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne Loeuillet
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France
| | - Magali Dhellemmes
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France
| | - Caroline Cazin
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, France.,Laboratoire Eurofins Biomnis, Département de Génétique Moléculaire, Lyon, France
| | - Zine-Eddine Kherraf
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Raoudha Zouari
- Polyclinique les Jasmins, Centre d'Aide Médicale à la Procréation, Centre Urbain Nord, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Christophe Arnoult
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, France
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30
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Abstract
The discovery of immune checkpoints (ICs) and the development of specific blockers to relieve immune effector cells from this inhibiting mechanism has changed the view of anti-cancer therapy. In addition to cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4) and programmed death 1 (PD1), classical ICs of T lymphocytes and recently described also on a fraction of natural killer (NK) cells, several NK cell receptors, including killer immunoglobulin-like inhibitory receptors (KIRs) and NGK2A, have been recognized as checkpoint members typical of the NK cell population. This offers the opportunity of a dual-checkpoint inhibition approach, targeting classical and non-classical ICs and leading to a synergistic therapeutic effect. In this review, we will overview and discuss this new perspective, focusing on the most relevant candidates for this role among the variety of potential NK ICs. Beside listing and defining classical ICs expressed also by NK cells, or non-classical ICs either on T or on NK cells, we will address their role in NK cell survival, chronic stimulation or functional exhaustion, and the potential relevance of this phenomenon on anti-tumor immune response. Furthermore, NK ICs will be proposed as possible new targets for the development of efficient combined immunotherapy, not forgetting the relevant concerns that may be raised on NK IC blockade. Finally, the impact of epigenetic drugs in such a complex therapeutic picture will be briefly addressed.
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31
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Xu H, Liu H, Liu C, Shangguan X, Cheng X, Zhang R, Lu Y, Li P, Cai Y. Molecular characterization and antibacterial ability of galectin-3 and galectin-9 in Onychostoma macrolepis. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 128:104333. [PMID: 34914929 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Galectins belong to the β-galactoside binding protein family, which have conserved carbohydrate-recognition domains (CRDs) and participate in innate and acquired immunity in animals. In this study, two galectin genes were cloned from Onychostoma macrolepis, OmGal-3 (galectin-3) and OmGal-9 (galectin-9). The open reading frames (ORFs) of OmGal-3 and OmGal-9 contain 732 and 978 base pairs, encoding 243 and 325 amino acids, respectively. OmGal-3 contains a C-terminal CRD, but OmGal-9 contains an N-terminal CRD and a C-terminal CRD. Two galectins were expressed at varying levels in all tissues examined, with the liver showing the highest expression. The relative gene expression levels of OmGal-3 and OmGal-9 following Aeromonas hydrophila infection were significantly up-regulated in the liver and spleen, and OmGal-9 had a greater increase than OmGal-3. The recombinant OmGal-3 and OmGal-9 proteins (rOmGal-3 and rOmGal-9) were authenticated and verified by SDS-PAGE and western blotting. ROmGal-3 and rOmGal-9 agglutinated all tested bacteria, including 3 g-positive bacteria (Aeromonas hydrophila, Escherichia coli, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus) and 3 g-negative bacteria (Streptococcus agalactiae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus) in vivo without Ca2+. ROmGal-3 showed strong binding both to gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and OmGal-9 had a stronger binding activity against gram-positive bacteria. Furthermore, rOmGal-3 and rOmGal-9 exhibited dose-dependent binding capability to two classic pathogens associated molecular pattern (LPS and PGN) and two sugars (d-lactose and d-galactose), and rOmGal-3 has better binding activity at lower concentrations in LPS and PGN than rOmGal-3. The integrated analyses indicate that the two galectins probably play an important role in innate immune defense by binding to bacterial cells via the CRD domain against pathogen infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongzhou Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22nd, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Haixia Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22nd, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China.
| | - Chengrong Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22nd, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Xinyan Shangguan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22nd, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Xu Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22nd, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Ruifang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22nd, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Yitong Lu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22nd, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Ping Li
- Centre for Research on Environmental Ecology and Fish Nutrition (CREEFN) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, PR China
| | - Yingjie Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22nd, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
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Menkhorst E, Than NG, Jeschke U, Barrientos G, Szereday L, Dveksler G, Blois SM. Medawar's PostEra: Galectins Emerged as Key Players During Fetal-Maternal Glycoimmune Adaptation. Front Immunol 2022; 12:784473. [PMID: 34975875 PMCID: PMC8715898 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.784473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lectin-glycan interactions, in particular those mediated by the galectin family, regulate many processes required for a successful pregnancy. Over the past decades, increasing evidence gathered from in vitro and in vivo experiments indicate that members of the galectin family specifically bind to both intracellular and membrane bound carbohydrate ligands regulating angiogenesis, immune-cell adaptations required to tolerate the fetal semi-allograft and mammalian embryogenesis. Therefore, galectins play important roles in fetal development and placentation contributing to maternal and fetal health. This review discusses the expression and role of galectins during the course of pregnancy, with an emphasis on maternal immune adaptions and galectin-glycan interactions uncovered in the recent years. In addition, we summarize the galectin fingerprints associated with pathological gestation with particular focus on preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecological Research Centre, The Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nandor Gabor Than
- Systems Biology of Reproduction Research Group, Institute of Enyzmology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Medicina Experimental, Hospital Alemán-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laszlo Szereday
- Medical School, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Gabriela Dveksler
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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The Role of the Immune Checkpoint Molecules PD-1/PD-L1 and TIM-3/Gal-9 in the Pathogenesis of Preeclampsia—A Narrative Review. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58020157. [PMID: 35208481 PMCID: PMC8880413 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58020157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific disease which is characterized by abnormal placentation, endothelial dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. Several studies have shown that the maternal immune system, which is crucial for maintaining the pregnancy by ensuring maternal-fetal-tolerance, is disrupted in preeclamptic patients. Besides different immune cells, immune checkpoint molecules such as the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1 system) and the T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3/Galectin-9 (TIM-3/Gal-9 system) are key players in upholding the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signals. Therefore, a clear understanding about the role of these immune checkpoint molecules in preeclampsia is essential. This review discusses the role of these two immune checkpoint systems in pregnancy and their alterations in preeclampsia.
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Deng Y, Zhou Y, Shi J, Yang J, Huang H, Zhang M, Wang S, Ma Q, Liu Y, Li B, Yan J, Yang H. Potential genetic biomarkers predict adverse pregnancy outcome during early and mid-pregnancy in women with systemic lupus erythematosus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:957010. [PMID: 36465614 PMCID: PMC9708709 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.957010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effectively predicting the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome (APO) in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during early and mid-pregnancy is a challenge. This study was aimed to identify potential markers for early prediction of APO risk in women with SLE. METHODS The GSE108497 gene expression dataset containing 120 samples (36 patients, 84 controls) was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened to define candidate APO marker genes. Next, three individual machine learning methods, random forest, support vector machine-recursive feature elimination, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, were combined to identify feature genes from the APO candidate set. The predictive performance of feature genes for APO risk was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration curves. The potential functions of these feature genes were finally analyzed by conventional gene set enrichment analysis and CIBERSORT algorithm analysis. RESULTS We identified 321 significantly up-regulated genes and 307 down-regulated genes between patients and controls, along with 181 potential functionally associated genes in the WGCNA analysis. By integrating these results, we revealed 70 APO candidate genes. Three feature genes, SEZ6, NRAD1, and LPAR4, were identified by machine learning methods. Of these, SEZ6 (AUC = 0.753) showed the highest in-sample predictive performance for APO risk in pregnant women with SLE, followed by NRAD1 (AUC = 0.694) and LPAR4 (AUC = 0.654). After performing leave-one-out cross validation, corresponding AUCs for SEZ6, NRAD1, and LPAR4 were 0.731, 0.668, and 0.626, respectively. Moreover, CIBERSORT analysis showed a positive correlation between regulatory T cell levels and SEZ6 expression (P < 0.01), along with a negative correlation between M2 macrophages levels and LPAR4 expression (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Our preliminary findings suggested that SEZ6, NRAD1, and LPAR4 might represent the useful genetic biomarkers for predicting APO risk during early and mid-pregnancy in women with SLE, and enhanced our understanding of the origins of pregnancy complications in pregnant women with SLE. However, further validation was required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Beijing, China
| | - Yiran Zhou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangcheng Shi
- School of Life Sciences, Tiangong University, Tianjin, China
| | - Junting Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Muqiu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Beijing, China
| | - Shuxian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yingnan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Beijing, China
| | - Boya Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Beijing, China
| | - Huixia Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Huixia Yang,
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Jovanović Krivokuća M, Vilotić A, Nacka-Aleksić M, Pirković A, Ćujić D, Legner J, Dekanski D, Bojić-Trbojević Ž. Galectins in Early Pregnancy and Pregnancy-Associated Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:69. [PMID: 35008499 PMCID: PMC8744741 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins are a family of conserved soluble proteins defined by an affinity for β-galactoside structures present on various glycoconjugates. Over the past few decades, galectins have been recognized as important factors for successful implantation and maintenance of pregnancy. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated their involvement in trophoblast cell function and placental development. In addition, several lines of evidence suggest their important roles in feto-maternal immune tolerance regulation and angiogenesis. Changed or dysregulated galectin expression is also described in pregnancy-related disorders. Although the data regarding galectins' clinical relevance are still at an early stage, evidence suggests that some galectin family members are promising candidates for better understanding pregnancy-related pathologies, as well as predicting biomarkers. In this review, we aim to summarize current knowledge of galectins in early pregnancy as well as in pregnancy-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Žanka Bojić-Trbojević
- Institute for Application of Nuclear Energy Department for Biology of Reproduction, University of Belgrade, Banatska 31b, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.J.K.); (A.V.); (M.N.-A.); (A.P.); (D.Ć.); (J.L.); (D.D.)
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Murata H, Tanaka S, Hisamatsu Y, Tsubokura H, Hashimoto Y, Kitada M, Okada H. Transcriptional regulation of LGALS9 by HAND2 and FOXO1 in human endometrial stromal cells in women with regular cycles. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6377344. [PMID: 34581822 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine natural killer cells are regulated via surface inhibitory receptors for IL15 and galectin-9 (LGALS9) secreted by endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). However, the mechanism that regulates LGALS9 mRNA levels in ESCs is unclear. The aim of this study is to clarify the transcriptional regulation of LGALS9 in ESCs. Here, LGALS9 mRNA expression levels significantly decreased in the endometrial tissue in the early- to mid-secretory phase, and recovered in the mid- to late-secretory phase, compared to that in the proliferative phase. In ESCs, LGALS9 mRNA expression significantly decreased following estradiol + medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment for 1 day and increased after 12 days compared to that in the control. The transcriptional activity of the LGALS9 upstream region was upregulated by heart and neural crest derivatives expressed 2 (HAND2) and downregulated by forkhead box O1 (FOXO1). In ESCs, HAND2 expression significantly increased throughout the 12 days treatment with steroid hormones, whereas FOXO1 expression significantly increased on Day 1, reached a plateau, and significantly increased again after 6 days of treatment. Levels of FOXO1 phosphorylation (pFOXO1) remained unchanged after a 3-day treatment of ESCs with steroid hormones, but significantly increased following a 12-day treatment. pFOXO1 could not bind to the DNA and was thus unable to directly suppress LGALS9 transcription. Therefore, expression level of HAND2 and phosphorylation status of FOXO1 may determine LGALS9 mRNA expression. This study provides a novel molecular mechanism underlying the transcriptional regulation of LGALS9 mRNA in ESCs, which could be valuable in the treatment of diseases associated with decidualization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Susumu Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoji Hisamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tsubokura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Hashimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaaki Kitada
- Department of Anatomy, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
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Li WX, Xu XH, Jin LP. Regulation of the innate immune cells during pregnancy: An immune checkpoint perspective. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10362-10375. [PMID: 34708495 PMCID: PMC8581333 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The foetus can be regarded as a half‐allograft implanted into the maternal body. In a successful pregnancy, the mother does not reject the foetus because of the immune tolerance mechanism at the maternal‐foetal interface. The innate immune cells are a large part of the decidual leukocytes contributing significantly to a successful pregnancy. Although the contributions have been recognized, their role in human pregnancy has not been completely elucidated. Additionally, the accumulated evidence demonstrates that the immune checkpoint molecules expressed on the immune cells are co‐inhibitory receptors regulating their activation and biological function. Therefore, it is critical to understand the immune microenvironment and explore the function of the innate immune cells during pregnancy. This review summarizes the classic immune checkpoints such as PD‐1, CTLA‐4 and some novel molecules recently identified, including TIM‐3, CD200, TIGIT and the Siglecs family on the decidual and peripheral innate immune cells during pregnancy. Furthermore, it emphasizes the role of the immune checkpoint molecules in pregnancy‐associated complications and reproductive immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Xuan Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Department of Biobank, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Ping Jin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Department of Biobank, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Jiang L, Fei H, Jin X, Liu X, Yang C, Li C, Chen J, Yang A, Zhu J, Wang H, Fei X, Zhang S. Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Secretion of HLA-E by Trophoblasts Maintains Pregnancy by Regulating the Metabolism of Decidual NK Cells. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:4377-4395. [PMID: 34803505 PMCID: PMC8579460 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.63390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles derived from trophoblasts (T-EVs) play an important role in pregnancy, but the mechanism is not entirely clear. In this study, we found that HLA-E, which is mostly confined to the cytoplasm of trophoblast cells, was secreted by T-EVs. The level of HLA-E in T-EVs from unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) patients was lower than that in normal pregnancy (NP) and RSA patients who had an abnormal embryo karyotype (AK-RSA). T-EVs promoted secretion of IFN-γ and VEGFα by decidual NK (dNK) cells from URSA patients via HLA-E, VEGFα was necessary for angiogenesis and trophoblast growth, and IFN-γ inhibited Th17 induction. Glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) were involved in this process. Glycolysis but not OxPhos of dNK cells facilitated by T-EVs was dependent on mTORC1 activation. Inhibition of T-EV production in vivo increased the susceptibility of mice to embryo absorption, which was reversed by transferring exogenous T-EVs. T-EVs promoted secretion of IFN-γ and VEGFα by dNK cells to maintain pregnancy via Qa-1 in abortion-prone mouse models. This study reveals a new mechanism of pregnancy maintenance mediated by HLA-E via T-EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Jiang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiyi Fei
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Jin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiu Liu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cuiyu Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chao Li
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianmin Chen
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Anran Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiajuan Zhu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Medical, Jiaxing University Affiliated Women and Children Hospital, 314051, Jiaxing, China
| | - Huihong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou Women's Hospital, 310008, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyang Fei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou Women's Hospital, 310008, Hangzhou, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction, Management of Zhejiang Province, 310016, Hangzhou, China
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Tao Y, Li Y, Zhang D, Xu L, Chen J, Sang Y, Piao H, Jing X, Yu M, Fu Q, Zhou S, Li D, Du M. Decidual CXCR4 + CD56 bright NK cells as a novel NK subset in maternal-foetal immune tolerance to alleviate early pregnancy failure. Clin Transl Med 2021; 11:e540. [PMID: 34709764 PMCID: PMC8516340 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells preferentially accumulate at maternal-foetal interface and are believed to play vital immune-modulatory roles during early pregnancy and related immunological dysfunction may result in pregnant failure such as recurrent miscarriage (RM). However, the mechanisms underlying the establishment of maternal-foetal immunotolerance are complex but clarifying the roles of decidual NK (dNK) cells offers the potential to design immunotherapeutic strategies to assist RM patients. In this report, we analysed RNA sequencing on peripheral NK (pNK) and decidual NK cells during early pregnancy; we identified an immunomodulatory dNK subset CXCR4+ CD56bright dNK and investigated its origin and phenotypic and functional characteristics. CXCR4+ CD56bright dNK displayed a less activated and cytotoxic phenotype but an enhanced immunomodulatory potential relative to the CXCR4 negative subset. CXCR4+ CD56bright dNK promote Th2 shift in an IL-4-dependent manner and can be recruited from peripheral blood and reprogramed by trophoblasts, as an active participant in the establishment of immune-tolerance during early pregnancy. Diminished CXCR4+ dNK cells and their impaired ability to induce Th2 differentiation were found in RM patients and mouse models of spontaneous abortion. Moreover, adoptive transfer of CXCR4+ dNK cells to NK-deficient (Nfil3-/-) mice showed great therapeutic potential of CXCR4+ dNK via recovering the Th2/Th1 bias and reducing embryo resorption rates. The identification of this new dNK cell subset may lay the foundation for understanding NK cell mechanisms in early pregnancy and provide potential prognostic factors for the diagnosis and therapy of RM.
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MESH Headings
- Abortion, Habitual/blood
- Abortion, Habitual/immunology
- Abortion, Habitual/prevention & control
- Animals
- Decidua/immunology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Female
- Humans
- Immune Tolerance/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules/blood
- Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules/genetics
- Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules/immunology
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Trimester, First
- Receptors, CXCR4/blood
- Receptors, CXCR4/genetics
- Receptors, CXCR4/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tao
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
- Department of Assisted ReproductionShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yan‐Hong Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Di Zhang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Ling Xu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Jia‐Jia Chen
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Yi‐Fei Sang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Hai‐Lan Piao
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Xue‐Ling Jing
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Min Yu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Qiang Fu
- Department of ImmunologyBinzhou Medical CollegeYantaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Sheng‐Tao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduPeople's Republic of China
| | - Da‐Jin Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Mei‐Rong Du
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of PharmacyMacau University of Science and TechnologyMacauChina
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40
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Differences in Immune Checkpoints Expression (TIM-3 and PD-1) on T Cells in Women with Recurrent Miscarriages-Preliminary Studies. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10184182. [PMID: 34575293 PMCID: PMC8468868 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10184182] [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: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Immune checkpoints are molecules that regulate the function of immune cells and control inflammation processes. An important role in this regard is played by TIM-3/Gal-9 and PD-1/PDL-1 interactions. Previous research performed in a mouse model of pregnancy loss confirmed that blocking TIM-3 could induce fetal loss. Similarly, the PD-1 molecule maintains protective interactions between the mother’s immune cells and the fetus. The purpose of this study was to assess the expression of these molecules on a range of T lymphocyte subpopulations from non-pregnant women with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) versus healthy fertile women. Methods: PBMCs were isolated by gradient centrifugation of blood obtained from 12 healthy women and 24 women with RSA and immediately stained for flow cytometry analysis. Standard immunophenotyping of PBMC was performed with the antibodies against classical lymphocyte markers: CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD56. Immune checkpoints were investigated using antibodies against PD-1(CD279) and TIM-3(CD366). Results: We found that expression of TIM-3 was significantly decreased on CD8+ T lymphocytes in the RSA group, and expression of PD-1 was upregulated on CD4+ T lymphocytes in the RSA group in comparison to the healthy controls. Conclusions: Considering our findings, therapeutic intervention towards immune checkpoints may be a promising treatment option for recurrent spontaneous abortion.
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Zhang X, Wei H. Role of Decidual Natural Killer Cells in Human Pregnancy and Related Pregnancy Complications. Front Immunol 2021; 12:728291. [PMID: 34512661 PMCID: PMC8426434 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.728291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is a unique type of immunological process. Healthy pregnancy is associated with a series of inflammatory events: implantation (inflammation), gestation (anti-inflammation), and parturition (inflammation). As the most abundant leukocytes during pregnancy, natural killer (NK) cells are recruited and activated by ovarian hormones and have pivotal roles throughout pregnancy. During the first trimester, NK cells represent up to 50–70% of decidua lymphocytes. Differently from peripheral-blood NK cells, decidual natural killer (dNK) cells are poorly cytolytic, and they release cytokines/chemokines that induce trophoblast invasion, tissue remodeling, embryonic development, and placentation. NK cells can also shift to a cytotoxic identity and carry out immune defense if infected in utero by pathogens. At late gestation, premature activation of NK cells can lead to a breakdown of tolerance of the maternal–fetal interface and, subsequently, can result in preterm birth. This review is focused on the role of dNK cells in normal pregnancy and pathological pregnancy, including preeclampsia, recurrent spontaneous abortion, endometriosis, and recurrent implantation failure. dNK cells could be targets for the treatment of pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhong Zhang
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Division of Molecular Medicine, The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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42
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Sun JY, Wu R, Xu J, Xue HY, Lu XJ, Ji J. Placental Immune Tolerance and Organ Transplantation: Underlying Interconnections and Clinical Implications. Front Immunol 2021; 12:705950. [PMID: 34413856 PMCID: PMC8370472 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.705950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system recognizes and attacks non-self antigens, making up the cornerstone of immunity activity against infection. However, during organ transplantation, the immune system also attacks transplanted organs and leads to immune rejection and transplantation failure. Interestingly, although the embryo and placenta are semi-allografts, like transplanted organs, they can induce maternal tolerance and be free of a vigorous immune response. Also, embryo or placenta-related antibodies might adversely affect subsequent organ transplantation despite the immune tolerance during pregnancy. Therefore, the balance between the immune tolerance in maternal-fetal interface and normal infection defense provides a possible desensitization and tolerance strategy to improve transplantation outcomes. A few studies on mechanisms and clinical applications have been performed to explore the relationship between maternal-fetal immune tolerance and organ transplantation. However, up to now, the mechanisms underlying maternal-fetal immune tolerance remain vague. In this review, we provide an overview on the current understanding of immune tolerance mechanisms underlying the maternal-fetal interface, summarize the interconnection between immune tolerance and organ transplantation, and describe the adverse effect of pregnancy alloimmunization on organ transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Yu Sun
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Digestive Endoscopy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiang Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Huai'an Second People's Hospital and The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, China
| | - Hui-Ying Xue
- The Reproductive Center, Huai'an Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiansong Ji
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University/Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui, China
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Wyatt MA, Baumgarten SC, Weaver AL, Van Oort CC, Fedyshyn B, Ruano R, Shenoy CC, Enninga EAL. Evaluating Markers of Immune Tolerance and Angiogenesis in Maternal Blood for an Association with Risk of Pregnancy Loss. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10163579. [PMID: 34441875 PMCID: PMC8397206 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy loss affects approximately 20% of couples. The lack of a clear cause complicates half of all miscarriages. Early evidence indicates the maternal immune system and angiogenesis regulation are both key players in implantation success or failure. Therefore, this prospective study recruited women in the first trimester with known viable intrauterine pregnancy and measured blood levels of immune tolerance proteins galectin-9 (Gal-9) and interleukin (IL)-4, and angiogenesis proteins (vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) A, C, and D) between 5 and 9 weeks gestation. Plasma concentrations were compared between groups defined based on (a) pregnancy outcome and (b) maternal history of miscarriage, respectively. In total, 56 women were recruited with 10 experiencing a miscarriage or pregnancy loss in the 2nd or 3rd trimester and 11 having a maternal history or miscarriage. VEGF-C was significantly lower among women with a miscarriage or pregnancy loss. Gal-9 and VEGF-A concentrations were decreased in women with a prior miscarriage. Identification of early changes in maternal immune and angiogenic factors during pregnancy may be a tool to improve patient counseling on pregnancy loss risk and future interventions to reduce miscarriage in a subset of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle A. Wyatt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (M.A.W.); (S.C.B.); (C.C.V.O.); (B.F.); (R.R.); (C.C.S.)
| | - Sarah C. Baumgarten
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (M.A.W.); (S.C.B.); (C.C.V.O.); (B.F.); (R.R.); (C.C.S.)
| | - Amy L. Weaver
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
| | - Chelsie C. Van Oort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (M.A.W.); (S.C.B.); (C.C.V.O.); (B.F.); (R.R.); (C.C.S.)
| | - Bohdana Fedyshyn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (M.A.W.); (S.C.B.); (C.C.V.O.); (B.F.); (R.R.); (C.C.S.)
| | - Rodrigo Ruano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (M.A.W.); (S.C.B.); (C.C.V.O.); (B.F.); (R.R.); (C.C.S.)
| | - Chandra C. Shenoy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (M.A.W.); (S.C.B.); (C.C.V.O.); (B.F.); (R.R.); (C.C.S.)
| | - Elizabeth Ann L. Enninga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (M.A.W.); (S.C.B.); (C.C.V.O.); (B.F.); (R.R.); (C.C.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Correspondence:
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Li M, Sun F, Qian J, Chen L, Li D, Wang S, Du M. Tim-3/CTLA-4 pathways regulate decidual immune cells-extravillous trophoblasts interaction by IL-4 and IL-10. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21754. [PMID: 34191338 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100142r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
To obtain a successful pregnancy, the establishment of maternal-fetal tolerance and successful placentation are required to be established. Disruption of this immune balance and/or inadequate placental perfusion is believed to be associated with a lot of pregnancy-related complications, such as recurrent spontaneous abortion, pre-eclampsia, and fetal intrauterine growth restriction. Extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) have the unique ability to instruct decidual immune cells (DICs) to develop a regulatory phenotype for fetal tolerance. Utilizing immortalized human first trimester extravillous trophoblast cells and primary EVTs, we found that DICs promote EVT function and placental development. We have previously shown that checkpoints T-cell immunoglobulin mucin-3 (Tim-3) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) are important for DIC function. In the present study, we showed that blockade of Tim-3 and CTLA-4 pathways leaded to the abnormal DICs-EVTs interaction, poor placental development, and increased fetal loss. Treatment with IL-4 and IL-10 could rescue the adverse effects of targeting Tim-3 and CTLA-4 on the pregnancy outcome. Hence, the reproductive safety must be a criterion considered in the assessment of immuno-therapeutic agents. In addition, IL-4 and IL-10 may represent novel therapeutic strategies to prevent pregnancy loss induced by checkpoint inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdie Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, SIPPR, IRD, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Fengrun Sun
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, SIPPR, IRD, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Jinfeng Qian
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, SIPPR, IRD, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Lanting Chen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, SIPPR, IRD, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Dajin Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, SIPPR, IRD, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Songcun Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, SIPPR, IRD, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Meirong Du
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, SIPPR, IRD, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, P.R. China
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Mikhailova V, Khokhlova E, Grebenkina P, Salloum Z, Nikolaenkov I, Markova K, Davidova A, Selkov S, Sokolov D. NK-92 cells change their phenotype and function when cocultured with IL-15, IL-18 and trophoblast cells. Immunobiology 2021; 226:152125. [PMID: 34365089 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2021.152125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
NK cell development is affected by their cellular microenvironment and cytokines, including IL-15 and IL-18. NK cells can differentiate in secondary lymphoid organs, liver and within the uterus in close contact with trophoblast cells. The aim was to evaluate changes in the NK cell phenotype and function in the presence of IL-15, IL-18 and JEG-3, a trophoblast cell line. When cocultured with JEG-3 cells, IL-15 caused an increase in the number of NKG2D+ NK-92 cells and the intensity of CD127 expression. IL-18 stimulates an increase in the amount of NKp44+ NK-92 cells and in the intensity of NKp44 expression by pNK in the presence of trophoblast cells. NK-92 cell cytotoxic activity against JEG-3 cells increased only in presence of IL-18. Data on changes in the cytotoxic activity of NK-92 cells against JEG-3 cells in the presence of IL-15 and IL-18 indicate the modulation of NK cell function both by the cytokine microenvironment and directly by target cells. IL-15 and IL-18 were present in conditioned media (CM) from 1st and 3rd trimester placentas. In the presence of 1st trimester CM and JEG-3 cells, NK-92 cells showed an increase in the intensity of NKG2D expression. In the presence of 3rd trimester CM and JEG-3 cells, a decrease in the expression of NKG2D by NK-92 cells was observed. Thus, culturing of NK-92 cells with JEG-3 trophoblast cells stimulated a pronounced change in the NK cell phenotype, bringing it closer to the decidual NK cell-like phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Mikhailova
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Evgeniia Khokhlova
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Polina Grebenkina
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Zeina Salloum
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Igor Nikolaenkov
- Department of Obstetrics, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Kseniya Markova
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Alina Davidova
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Sergey Selkov
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
| | - Dmitriy Sokolov
- Department of Immunology and Intercellular Interactions, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Russia
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Immune checkpoints and reproductive immunology: Pioneers in the future therapy of infertility related Disorders? Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 99:107935. [PMID: 34304000 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
As co-stimulatory receptors, immune checkpoint molecules are found on the surface of various immune cells and transduce inhibitory signals following ligand binding. The most studied members in this regard include PD-1, TIM-3, and CTLA-4. The physiological part immune checkpoints possess is the prevention of dangerous immune attacks towards self-antigens throughout an immune response, which takes place through the negative regulation of the effector immune cells, through the induction of T-cell exhaustion, for instance. It has recently been suggested that each checkpoint reduces immunoactivation via distinct intracellular mechanisms of signaling. Regulators of immune checkpoints are supposed to participate actively in immune defense mechanisms against infections, preventing autoimmunity, transplantation, and tumor immune evasion. In pregnancy, as an active immunotolerance mechanism which is also natural, the maternal immune system encounters two simultaneous challenges; in addition to accepting the semi-allogeneic fetus, the maternal immune system should also prevent infections. In this regard, the part immune checkpoint molecules possess is particularly interesting. Herein, the current understanding of such part in reproductive immunology is described.
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Meggyes M, Nagy DU, Balassa T, Godony K, Peterfalvi A, Szereday L, Polgar B. Influence of Galectin-9 Treatment on the Phenotype and Function of NK-92MI Cells in the Presence of Different Serum Supplements. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081066. [PMID: 34439744 PMCID: PMC8391477 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins are one of the critical players in the tumor microenvironment-tumor crosstalk and the regulation of local immunity. Galectin-9 has been in the limelight in tumor immunology. Galectin-9 possesses its multiplex biological functions both extracellularly and intracellularly, plays a pivotal role in the modulation of adaptive and innate immunity, and induces immune tolerance. NK-92MI cell lines against different malignancies were extensively studied, and recently published trials used genetically chimeric antigen receptor-transfected NK-92MI cells in tumor immunotherapy. Besides the intensive research in tumor immunotherapy, limited information is available on their immune-checkpoint expression and the impact of checkpoint ligands on their effector functions. To uncover the therapeutic potential of modulating Galectin-9-related immunological pathways in NK-cell-based therapy, we investigated the dose-dependent effect of soluble Galectin-9 on the TIM-3 checkpoint receptor and NKG2D, CD69, FasL, and perforin expression of NK-92MI cells. We also examined how their cytotoxicity and cytokine production was altered after Gal-9 treatment and in the presence of different serum supplements using flow cytometric analysis. Our study provides evidence that the Galectin-9/TIM-3 pathway plays an important role in the regulation of NK cell function, and about the modulatory role of Galectin-9 on the cytotoxicity and cytokine production of NK-92MI cells in the presence of different serum supplements. We hope that our results will aid the development of novel NK-cell-based strategies that target Galectin-9/TIM-3 checkpoint in tumors resistant to T-cell-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matyas Meggyes
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 12 Szigeti Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary; (T.B.); (L.S.); (B.P.)
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pecs, 20 Ifjusag Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +3672-536001/1907
| | - David U Nagy
- Medical Centre, Cochrane Hungary, University of Pecs, 7623 Pecs, Hungary;
| | - Timea Balassa
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 12 Szigeti Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary; (T.B.); (L.S.); (B.P.)
| | - Krisztina Godony
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 17 Edesanyak Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary;
| | - Agnes Peterfalvi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical School, University of Pecs, 13 Ifjusag Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary;
| | - Laszlo Szereday
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 12 Szigeti Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary; (T.B.); (L.S.); (B.P.)
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pecs, 20 Ifjusag Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
| | - Beata Polgar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 12 Szigeti Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary; (T.B.); (L.S.); (B.P.)
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pecs, 20 Ifjusag Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
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Shi M, Chen Z, Chen M, Liu J, Li J, Xing Z, Zhang X, Lv S, Li X, Zuo S, Feng S, Lin Y, Xiao G, Wang L, He Y. Continuous activation of polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells during pregnancy is critical for fetal development. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:1692-1707. [PMID: 34099889 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00704-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The maternal immune system is vital in maintaining immunotolerance to the semiallogeneic fetus for a successful pregnancy. Although studies have shown that myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) play an important role in maintaining feto-maternal tolerance, little is known about the role of MDSCs in pregnancies with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Here, we reported that the activation of polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs) during pregnancy was closely associated with fetal growth. In humans, class E scavenger receptor 1 (SR-E1), a distinct marker for human PMN-MDSCs, was used to investigate PMN-MDSC function during pregnancy. Continuous activation of SR-E1+ PMN-MDSCs was observed in all stages of pregnancy, accompanied by high cellular levels of ROS and arginase-1 activity, mediated through STAT6 signaling. However, SR-E1+ PMN-MDSCs in pregnancies with IUGR showed significantly lower suppressive activity, lower arginase-1 activity and ROS levels, and decreased STAT6 phosphorylation level, which were accompanied by an increase in inflammatory factors, compared with those in normal pregnancies. Moreover, the population of SR-E1+ PMN-MDSCs was negatively correlated with the adverse outcomes of newborns from pregnancies with IUGR. In mice, decreases in cell population, suppressive activity, target expression levels, and STAT6 phosphorylation levels were also observed in the pregnancies with IUGR compared with the normal pregnancies, which were rescued by the adoptive transfer of PMN-MDSCs from pregnant mice. Interestingly, the growth-promoting factors (GPFs) secreted by placental PMN-MDSCs in both humans and mice play a vital role in fetal development. These findings collectively support that PMN-MDSCs have another new role in pregnancy, which can improve adverse neonatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Shi
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziyang Chen
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meiqi Chen
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingping Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Xing
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaogang Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuaijun Lv
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaowen Zuo
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shi Feng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Lin
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gang Xiao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Liping Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Yumei He
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Microbiome Medicine Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Wang E, Liao Z, Wang L, Liao Y, Xu X, Liu P, Wang X, Hou J, Jiang H, Wu X, Chen X. A combination of pirfenidone and TGF-β inhibition mitigates cystic echinococcosis-associated hepatic injury. Parasitology 2021; 148:767-778. [PMID: 33583470 PMCID: PMC11010163 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021000287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) occurs in the intermediate host's liver, assuming a bladder-like structure surrounded by the host-derived collagen capsule mainly derived from activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). However, the effect of CE on liver natural killer (NK) cells and the potential of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signalling inhibition on alleviating CE-related liver damage remain to be explored. Here, by using the CE-mouse model, we revealed that the inhibitory receptors on the surface of liver NK cells were up-regulated, whereas the activating receptors were down-regulated over time. TGF-β1 secretion was elevated in liver tissues and mainly derived from macrophages. A combination of TGF-β signalling inhibitors SB525334 and pirfenidone could reduce the expression of TGF-β1 signalling pathway-related proteins and collagen production. Based on the secretion of TGF-β1, only the pirfenidone group showed a depressing effect. Also, the combination of SB525334 and pirfenidone exhibited a higher potential in effectively alleviating the senescence of the hepatocytes and restoring liver function. Together, TGF-β1 may be a potential target for the treatment of CE-associated liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erqiang Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
- Department of Hunan Children's Research Institute, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenyu Liao
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Lianghai Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Yuan Liao
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Xiaodan Xu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Xian Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Jun Hou
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Huijiao Jiang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Xiangwei Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Xueling Chen
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
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50
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Liu Y, Gao S, Zhao Y, Wang H, Pan Q, Shao Q. Decidual Natural Killer Cells: A Good Nanny at the Maternal-Fetal Interface During Early Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:663660. [PMID: 34054831 PMCID: PMC8149889 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.663660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Decidual natural killer (dNK) cells are the tissue-resident and major subpopulation of NK cells at the maternal-fetal interface. It has been demonstrated that dNK cells play pivotal roles in pregnancy, including keeping maternal-fetal immune tolerance, promoting extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell invasion, and driving uterine spiral artery remodeling. However, the molecular mechanisms haven't been elucidated until recent years. In this review, we systemically introduce the generation, subsets, and surface or soluble molecules of dNK cells, which are critical for maintaining the functions of dNK cells. Further, new functions of dNK cells including well-controlled cytotoxicity, immunosurveillance and immunotrophism supporting via the cell-cell interaction between dNK cells and EVT cells are mainly focused. The molecular mechanisms involved in these functions are also illustrated. Moreover, pregnancy-associated diseases caused by the dNK cells abnormalities are discussed. It will be important for future investigations about the mechanism of maintenance of pregnancy and parturition and potential clinical applications of dNK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuefang Liu
- Department of Clinical Genetics, the Huai'an Maternity and Child Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, China
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shujun Gao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yangjing Zhao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Qiong Pan
- Department of Clinical Genetics, the Huai'an Maternity and Child Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, China
| | - Qixiang Shao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
- Jiangsu College of Nursing, School of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Huai'an, China
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