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Xiong L, Tian Y, Xu X, Wang H, Li W, Zhai C. Immunopotentiating effects of herb-partitioned moxibustion on the spleens of cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppressed rats. Chin Med 2024; 19:28. [PMID: 38369521 PMCID: PMC10875891 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00898-x] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the effec of the herb-partitioned moxibustion on T-lymphocyte activity in immunosuppressed rats through differential modulation of the immune checkpoint molecules CD28 and CTLA-4. METHODS Forty-eight Sprague‒Dawley rats were randomly divided into the normal group (NG), the cyclophosphamide model group (CTX), the herb-partitioned moxibustion group (HPM), the CD28 inhibitor + herb-partitioned moxibustion group (aCD28 + HPM), the CTLA-4 inhibitor + herb-partitioned moxibustion group (aCTLA-4 + HPM), and the levamisole group (LEV) (8 rats per group). The immunosuppression model was prepared using cyclophosphamide. HPM treatments was performed via herb-partitioned moxibustion at 4 acupoints, Zhongwan (CV12), Shenque (CV8), Guanyuan (CV4), and Zusanli (ST36). Subsequently, the moxa floss was made into a conical moxa cone, which was then placed on the herbal cake and ignited. Five consecutive moxibustion strokes were performed daily for 10 consecutive days. In addition to the same moxibustion, each rat in the aCD28 + HPM group was injected intraperitoneally with 0.5 mg/kg of CD28 inhibitor per rat on the first day of treatment, and 100 μL of CTLA-4 inhibitor was injected into the aCTLA-4 + HPM group on Days 1, 4, and 7. For the positive control, levamisole (LEV) was administered by gavage at a dose of 2 mg/kg once daily for 10 days. RESULTS Compared with those in CTX model rats, the WBC counts in the HPM and other groups were significantly higher. The immobility time of EPM in the HPM group was significantly lower than that of the CTX group. The HE stainin results also showed that after treatment, the the marginal zone area of the spleen tissue in the HPM increased, the number of lymphatic sheath lymphocytes around the small central artery of the spleen increased, and the amount of red pulp containing a small amount of pigmentation was partially reduced. Compared with those in the CTX group, the serum levels of CD28, CTLA-4, B7-1, and B7-2 were significantly lower, and the levels of α-MSH, TrkB, and BDNF were significantly greater in the HPM group. The results of the flow cytometry assay showed a significant increase in the number of CD8 + T lymphocytes after treatment with HPM or other agents compared to that in the CTX group. The immunofluorescence results showed that the levels of CD28 and CTLA-4 lower in spleen tissues than in control tissues, and the binding ability of CD28 to B7-1 and B7-2 was weakened after treatment with HPM and other treatments compared with CTX rats, PCR for CD28, CTLA-4 and B7-1 showed similar results. CONCLUSION In the immunosuppressive rat model induced by cyclophosphamide, HPM upregulated the expression of α-MSH, TrkB, and BDNF, and downregulated the expression of CD28 and CTLA-4, thereby enhancing the activity of CD8+ T lymphocytes, restoring spleen function, improving the immunosuppressive state, restoring immune function, and effectively alleviating depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luojie Xiong
- College of Acupuncture, Massage and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China
- Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuefeng Tian
- Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoshan Xu
- College of Acupuncture, Massage and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China
| | - Huifang Wang
- Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuntao Zhai
- Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, People's Republic of China
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Wang S, Kahale F, Naderi A, Surico PL, Yin J, Dohlman T, Chen Y, Dana R. Therapeutic Effects of Stimulating the Melanocortin Pathway in Regulating Ocular Inflammation and Cell Death. Biomolecules 2024; 14:169. [PMID: 38397406 PMCID: PMC10886905 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and its binding receptors (the melanocortin receptors) play important roles in maintaining ocular tissue integrity and immune homeostasis. Particularly extensive studies have demonstrated the biological functions of α-MSH in both immunoregulation and cyto-protection. This review summarizes the current knowledge of both the physiological and pathological roles of α-MSH and its receptors in the eye. We focus on recent developments in the biology of α-MSH and the relevant clinical implications in treating ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shudan Wang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.W.); (F.K.); (A.N.); (P.L.S.); (J.Y.); (T.D.)
- Eye Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Francesca Kahale
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.W.); (F.K.); (A.N.); (P.L.S.); (J.Y.); (T.D.)
| | - Amirreza Naderi
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.W.); (F.K.); (A.N.); (P.L.S.); (J.Y.); (T.D.)
| | - Pier Luigi Surico
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.W.); (F.K.); (A.N.); (P.L.S.); (J.Y.); (T.D.)
| | - Jia Yin
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.W.); (F.K.); (A.N.); (P.L.S.); (J.Y.); (T.D.)
| | - Thomas Dohlman
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.W.); (F.K.); (A.N.); (P.L.S.); (J.Y.); (T.D.)
| | - Yihe Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.W.); (F.K.); (A.N.); (P.L.S.); (J.Y.); (T.D.)
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.W.); (F.K.); (A.N.); (P.L.S.); (J.Y.); (T.D.)
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Srivastava P, Nishiyama S, Zhou F, Lin SH, Srivastava A, Su C, Xu Y, Peng W, Levy M, Schwarzschild M, Chen X. Peripheral MC1R Activation Modulates Immune Responses and is Neuroprotective in a Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2023; 18:704-717. [PMID: 38110615 PMCID: PMC10769915 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-023-10094-7] [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: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) is a key pigmentation gene, and loss-of-function of MC1R variants that produce red hair may be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). We previously reported compromised dopaminergic neuron survival in Mc1r mutant mice and dopaminergic neuroprotective effects of local injection of a MC1R agonist to the brain or a systemically administered MC1R agonist with appreciable central nervous system (CNS) permeability. Beyond melanocytes and dopaminergic neurons, MC1R is expressed in other peripheral tissues and cell types, including immune cells. The present study investigates the impact of NDP-MSH, a synthetic melanocortin receptor (MCR) agonist that does not cross BBB, on the immune system and the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system in mouse model of PD. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were treated systemically with MPTP.HCl (20 mg/kg) and LPS (1 mg/kg) from day 1 to day 4 and NDP-MSH (400 µg/kg) or vehicle from day 1 to day 12 following which the mice were sacrificed. Peripheral and CNS immune cells were phenotyped and inflammatory markers were measured. The nigrostriatal dopaminergic system was assessed behaviorally, chemically, immunologically, and pathologically. To understand the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in this model, CD25 monoclonal antibody was used to deplete CD25 + Tregs. RESULTS Systemic NDP-MSH administration significantly attenuated striatal dopamine depletion and nigral dopaminergic neuron loss induced by MPTP + LPS. It improved the behavioral outcomes in the pole test. Mc1r mutant mice injected with NDP-MSH in the MPTP and LPS paradigm showed no changes in striatal dopamine levels suggesting that the NDP-MSH acts through the MC1R pathway. Although no NDP-MSH was detected in the brain, peripheral, NDP-MSH attenuated neuroinflammation as observed by diminished microglial activation in the nigral region, along with reduced TNF-α and IL1β levels in the ventral midbrain. Depletion of Tregs was associated with diminished neuroprotective effects of NDP-MSH. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that peripherally acting NDP-MSH confers protection on dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons and reduces hyperactivated microglia. NDP-MSH modulates peripheral immune responses, and Tregs may be involved in the neuroprotective effect of NDP-MSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranay Srivastava
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Shuhei Nishiyama
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Fang Zhou
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Sonia H Lin
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Akriti Srivastava
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Chienwen Su
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Yuehang Xu
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Weiyi Peng
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael Levy
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Michael Schwarzschild
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Xiqun Chen
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
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Chang CL, Cai Z, Hsu SYT. A gel-forming α-MSH analog promotes lasting melanogenesis. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 958:176008. [PMID: 37673364 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176008] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
The α-MSH peptide plays a significant role in the regulation of pigmentation via the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R). It increases the DNA repair capacity of melanocytes and reduces the incidence of skin cancers. As such, α-MSH analogs could have the utility for protecting against UV-induced skin DNA damage in susceptible patients. Recently, α-MSH analogs have been approved for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria, hypoactive sexual desire, or pediatric obesity. However, the delivery of these drugs requires inconvenient implants or frequent injections. We recently found that select palmitoylated melanocortin analogs such as afamelanotide and adrenocorticotropin peptides self-assemble to form liquid gels in situ. To explore the utility of these novel analogs, we studied their pharmacological characteristics in vitro and in vivo. Acylated afamelanotide (DDE 313) and ACTH1-24 (DDE314) analogs form liquid gels at 6-20% and have a significantly increased viscosity at >2.5% compared to original analogs. Using the DDE313 analog as a prototype, we showed gel-formation reduces the passage of DDE313 through Centricon filters, and subcutaneous injection of analog gel in rats leads to the sustained presence of the peptide in circulation for >12 days. In addition, DDE313 darkened the skin of frogs for >4 weeks, whereas those injected with an equivalent dose of afamelanotide lost the tanning response within a few days. Because self-assembled gels allow sustained activation of melanocortin receptors, further studies of these analogs may allow the development of effective and convenient tanning therapies to prophylactically protect against UV-induced malignant transformation of skin cells in susceptible patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Zheqing Cai
- CL Laboratory LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, United States
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Gravina AG, Pellegrino R, Durante T, Palladino G, Imperio G, D'Amico G, Trotta MC, Dallio M, Romeo M, D'Amico M, Federico A. The Melanocortin System in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Insights into Its Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potentials. Cells 2023; 12:1889. [PMID: 37508552 PMCID: PMC10378568 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141889] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The melanocortin system is a complex set of molecular mediators and receptors involved in many physiological and homeostatic processes. These include the regulation of melanogenesis, steroidogenesis, neuromodulation and the modulation of inflammatory processes. In the latter context, the system has assumed importance in conditions of chronic digestive inflammation, such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), in which numerous experiences have been accumulated in mouse models of colitis. Indeed, information on how such a system can counteract colitis inflammation and intervene in the complex cytokine imbalance in the intestinal microenvironment affected by chronic inflammatory damage has emerged. This review summarises the evidence acquired so far and highlights that molecules interfering with the melanocortin system could represent new drugs for treating IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Gerarda Gravina
- Hepatogastroenterology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Pellegrino
- Hepatogastroenterology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Tommaso Durante
- Mental Health Department, S. Pio Hospital, Via dell'Angelo, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Giovanna Palladino
- Hepatogastroenterology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Imperio
- Hepatogastroenterology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Marcello Dallio
- Hepatogastroenterology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Romeo
- Hepatogastroenterology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Federico
- Hepatogastroenterology Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
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Srivastava P, Nishiyama S, Lin SH, Srivastava A, Su C, Peng W, Levy M, Schwarzschild M, Xu Y, Chen X. Peripheral MC1R activation modulates immune responses and is neuroprotective in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3042571. [PMID: 37398302 PMCID: PMC10312952 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3042571/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) is a key pigmentation gene, and loss-of-function of MC1R variants that produce red hair may be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). We previously reported compromised dopaminergic neuron survival in Mc1r mutant mice and dopaminergic neuroprotective effects of local injection of a MC1R agonist to the brain or a systemically administered MC1R agonist with appreciable CNS permeability. Beyond melanocytes and dopaminergic neurons, MC1R is expressed in other peripheral tissues and cell types, including immune cells. The present study investigates the impact of NDP-MSH, a synthetic melanocortin receptor (MCR) agonist that does not cross BBB, on the immune system and the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system in mouse model of PD. Methods C57BL/6 mice were treated systemically with MPTP.HCl (20 mg/kg) and LPS (1 mg/kg) from day 1 to day 4 and NDP-MSH (400 μg/kg) or vehicle from day 1 to day 12 following which the mice were sacrificed. Peripheral and CNS immune cells were phenotyped and inflammatory markers were measured. The nigrostriatal dopaminergic system was assessed behaviorally, chemically, immunologically, and pathologically. To understand the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in this model, CD25 monoclonal antibody was used to deplete CD25+ Tregs. Results Systemic NDP-MSH administration significantly attenuated striatal dopamine depletion and nigral dopaminergic neuron loss induced by MPTP+LPS. It improved the behavioral outcomes in the pole test. Mc1r mutant mice injected with NDP-MSH in the MPTP and LPS paradigm showed no changes in striatal dopamine levels suggesting that the NDP-MSH acts through the MC1R pathway. Although no NDP-MSH was detected in the brain, peripheral, NDP-MSH attenuated neuroinflammation as observed by diminished microglial activation in the nigral region, along with reduced TNF-α and IL1β levels in the ventral midbrain. Depletion of Tregs limited the neuroprotective effects of NDP-MSH. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that peripherally acting NDP-MSH confers protection on dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons and reduces hyperactivated microglia. NDP-MSH modulates peripheral immune responses, and Tregs may be involved in the neuroprotective effect of NDP-MSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranay Srivastava
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Shuhei Nishiyama
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Sonia H Lin
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Akriti Srivastava
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Chienwen Su
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Weiyi Peng
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston
| | - Michael Levy
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Michael Schwarzschild
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Yuehang Xu
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Xiqun Chen
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
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Parab S, Doshi G. The Experimental Animal Models in Psoriasis Research: A Comprehensive Review. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 117:109897. [PMID: 36822099 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109897] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Psoriasis is an autoimmune, chronic, inflammatory skin condition mediated by T cells. It differs from other inflammatory conditions by causing significant alterations in epidermal cell proliferation and differentiation that are both complicated and prominent. The lack of an appropriate animal model has significantly hindered studies into the pathogenic mechanisms of psoriasis since animals other than humans typically do not exhibit the complex phenotypic features of human psoriasis. A variety of methods, including spontaneous mutations, drug-induced mutations, genetically engineered animals, xenotransplantation models, and immunological reconstitution approaches, have all been employed to study specific characteristics in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Although some of these approaches have been used for more than 50 years and far more models have been introduced recently, they have surprisingly not yet undergone detailed validation. Despite their limitations, these models have shown a connection between keratinocyte hyperplasia, vascular hyperplasia, and a cell-mediated immune response in the skin. The xenotransplantation of diseased or unaffected human skin onto immune-compromised recipients has also significantly aided psoriasis research. This technique has been used in a variety of ways to investigate the function of T lymphocytes and other cells, including preclinical therapeutic studies. The design of pertinent in vivo and in vitro psoriasis models is currently of utmost concern and a crucial step toward its cure. This article outlines the general approach in the development of psoriasis-related animal models, aspects of some specific models, along with their strengths and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhi Parab
- SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, V.M. Road, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, India
| | - Gaurav Doshi
- SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, V.M. Road, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, India.
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Huang X, Li F, Wang F. Neural Regulation of Innate Immunity in Inflammatory Skin Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:246. [PMID: 37259392 PMCID: PMC9961653 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
As the largest barrier organ of the body, the skin is highly innervated by peripheral sensory neurons. The major function of these sensory neurons is to transmit sensations of temperature, pain, and itch to elicit protective responses. Inflammatory skin diseases are triggered by the aberrant activation of immune responses. Recently, increasing evidence has shown that the skin peripheral nervous system also acts as a regulator of immune responses, particularly innate immunity, in various skin inflammatory processes. Meanwhile, immune cells in the skin can express receptors that respond to neuropeptides/neurotransmitters, leading to crosstalk between the immune system and nervous system. Herein, we highlight recent advances of such bidirectional neuroimmune interactions in certain inflammatory skin conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobao Huang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Fengxian Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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Garrido-Mesa J, Thomas BL, Dodd J, Spana C, Perretti M, Montero-Melendez T. Pro-resolving and anti-arthritic properties of the MC 1 selective agonist PL8177. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1078678. [PMID: 36505403 PMCID: PMC9730523 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1078678] [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: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Melanocortins are peptides endowed with anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving activities. Many of these effects are mediated by the Melanocortin receptor 1 (MC1) as reported in several experimental settings. As such, MC1 can be a viable target for the development of new therapies that mimic endogenous pro-resolving mediators. The aim of this study was to assess the immunopharmacology of a selective MC1 agonist (PL8177) in vitro and in a mouse model of inflammatory arthritis. Methods PL8177 and the natural agonist αMSH were tested for activation of mouse and human Melanocortin receptors (MC1,3,4,5), monitoring cAMP accumulation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, using transiently transfected HEK293A cells. The anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving effects of PL8177 and αMSH were evaluated using mouse peritoneal Macrophages. Finally, a model of K/BxN serum transfer induced arthritis was used to determine the in vivo potential of PL8177. Results PL8177 activates mouse and human MC1 with apparent EC50 values of 0.01 and 1.49 nM, respectively, using the cAMP accumulation assay. Similar profiles were observed for the induction of ERK phosphorylation (EC50: 0.05 and 1.39 nM). PL8177 displays pro-resolving activity (enhanced Macrophage efferocytosis) and counteracts the inflammatory profile of zymosan-stimulated macrophages, reducing the release of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and CCL-2. In the context of joint inflammation, PL8177 (3mg/kg i.p.) reduces clinical score, paw swelling and incidence of severe disease as well as the recruitment of immune cells into the arthritic joint. Conclusion These results demonstrate that the MC1 agonism with PL8177 affords therapeutic effects in inflammatory conditions including arthritis. Significance Drugs targeting the Melanocortin system have emerged as promising therapeutics for several conditions including inflammation or obesity. Multiple candidates are under clinical development, and some have already reached approval. Here we present the characterization of a novel drug candidate, PL8177, selective for the Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1), demonstrating its selectivity profile on cAMP and ERK1/2 phosphorylation signaling pathways, of relevance as selective drugs will translate into lesser off-target effect. PL8177 also demonstrated, not only anti-inflammatory activity, but pro-resolving actions due to its ability to enhance efferocytosis (i.e. the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells), endowing this molecule with therapeutic advantages compared to classical anti-inflammatory drugs. Using a mouse model of inflammatory arthritis, the compound demonstrated in vivo efficacy by reducing clinical score, paw swelling and overall disease severity. Taken together, these results present Melanocortin-based therapies, and specifically targeting MC1 receptor, as a promising strategy to manage chronic inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Garrido-Mesa
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bethan Lynne Thomas
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John Dodd
- Palatin Technologies, Inc., Cranbury, NJ, United States
| | - Carl Spana
- Palatin Technologies, Inc., Cranbury, NJ, United States
| | - Mauro Perretti
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom,Centre for inflammation and Therapeutic Innovation, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Trinidad Montero-Melendez
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom,Centre for inflammation and Therapeutic Innovation, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Trinidad Montero-Melendez,
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Puri S, Kenyon BM, Hamrah P. Immunomodulatory Role of Neuropeptides in the Cornea. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1985. [PMID: 36009532 PMCID: PMC9406019 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The transparency of the cornea along with its dense sensory innervation and resident leukocyte populations make it an ideal tissue to study interactions between the nervous and immune systems. The cornea is the most densely innervated tissue of the body and possesses both immune and vascular privilege, in part due to its unique repertoire of resident immune cells. Corneal nerves produce various neuropeptides that have a wide range of functions on immune cells. As research in this area expands, further insights are made into the role of neuropeptides and their immunomodulatory functions in the healthy and diseased cornea. Much remains to be known regarding the details of neuropeptide signaling and how it contributes to pathophysiology, which is likely due to complex interactions among neuropeptides, receptor isoform-specific signaling events, and the inflammatory microenvironment in disease. However, progress in this area has led to an increase in studies that have begun modulating neuropeptide activity for the treatment of corneal diseases with promising results, necessitating the need for a comprehensive review of the literature. This review focuses on the role of neuropeptides in maintaining the homeostasis of the ocular surface, alterations in disease settings, and the possible therapeutic potential of targeting these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudan Puri
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Brendan M. Kenyon
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Departments of Immunology and Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Cornea Service, Tufts New England Eye Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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The Combination of Rhodosin and MMF Prolongs Cardiac Allograft Survival by Inhibiting DC Maturation by Promoting Mitochondrial Fusion. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7260305. [PMID: 35855862 PMCID: PMC9288296 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7260305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Despite being the gold-standard treatment for end-stage heart disease, heart transplantation is associated with acute cardiac rejection within 1 year of transplantation. The continuous application of immunosuppressants may cause side effects such as hepatic and renal toxicity, infection, and malignancy. Developing new pharmaceutical strategies to alleviate acute rejection after heart transplantation effectively and safely is of critical importance. In this study, we performed a murine model of MHC-full mismatch cardiac transplantation and showed that the combination of Rhodosin (Rho) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) could prevent acute rejection and oxidative stress injury and prolong the survival time of murine heart transplants. The use of Rho plus MMF in allografts improved the balance of Tregs/Teff cells, which had a protective effect on allotransplantation. We also isolated bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and determined that Rho inhibited DC maturation by promoting mitochondrial fusion mainly through the mitochondrial fusion-related protein MFN1. Herein, we demonstrated that Rho, an active ingredient isolated from the plant Rhodiola rosea with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, could efficiently alleviate acute rejection and significantly prolong murine heart allograft survival when used with a low dose of MMF. More importantly, we found that Rho restrained DC maturation by promoting mitochondrial fusion and decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, which then alleviated acute rejection in murine cardiac transplantation. Interestingly, as a novel immunosuppressant, Rho has almost no side effects compared with other traditional immunosuppressants. Taken together, these results suggest that Rho has good clinical auxiliary applications as an effective immunosuppressant and antioxidant, and this study provides an efficient strategy to overcome the side effects of immunosuppressive agents that are currently used in organ transplantation.
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Li C, Wu M, Gu L, Yin M, Li H, Yuan W, Lin J, Wang Q, Xu Q, Jiang N, Zhao G. α- MSH plays anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal role in Aspergillus Fumigatus keratitis. Curr Eye Res 2021; 47:343-351. [PMID: 34766863 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2021.2006235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal role of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) in Aspergillus Fumigatus (A. fumigatus) keratitis. METHOD Corneas of C57BL/6 mice were infected with A. Fumigatus. α-MSH (5 ul, 1x10-4mmol/ml) was given by subconjunctival injection from day 1 to day 3 post infection (p.i.). After 3 days p.i., clinical score was recored and HE staining was tested. Fungal load in mice corneas was observed by plate counting. Pro-inflammatory mediators and pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) were detected. The numbers of neutrophils and macrophages were tested by immunofluorescence staining. The role of α-MSH in RAW264.7 cells after A. fumigatus stimulation were evaluated by PCR and Western blot, and MPKA protein levels including total-JNK (T-JNK), phosphorylated-JNK (P-JNK), total-ERK (T-ERK) and phosphorylated-ERK (P-ERK) were tested via Western blot with or without α-MSH treatment. RESULTS Compared with PBS control group, α-MSH treatment alleviated disease response and decreased clinical score at 3 days p.i. HE staining showed less infiltration in corneal tissue after α-MSH treatment. Plate counting experiment showed that number of viable fungus in corneas of α-MSH treated group was less than control group. mRNA levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, MIP-2, LOX-1, Dectin-1 and iNOS were decreased. Protein levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 and Dectin-1 were decreased. α-MSH treatment also decreased the infiltrating neutrophils and macrophages. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, Dectin-1 and LOX-1 stimulated by A. fumigatus, were also suppressed by pretreatment of α-MSH in RAW264.7 cells. The ratio of P-JNK/T-JNK and P-ERK/T-ERK were down regulated in α-MSH group compared with PBS control group. CONCLUSION α-MSH alleviates the severity and decreases fungal load of A. fumigatus keratitis in mice. Migration of neutrophils and macrophages are restrained. α-MSH downregulates the expression of dectin-1 and the ratio of P-JNK/T-JNK and P-ERK/T-ERK in A. fumigatus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Mengqi Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Lingwen Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Min Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Wu Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Qiang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China, 266003
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Neurocosmetics in Skincare—The Fascinating World of Skin–Brain Connection: A Review to Explore Ingredients, Commercial Products for Skin Aging, and Cosmetic Regulation. COSMETICS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/cosmetics8030066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The “modern” cosmetology industry is focusing on research devoted to discovering novel neurocosmetic functional ingredients that could improve the interactions between the skin and the nervous system. Many cosmetic companies have started to formulate neurocosmetic products that exhibit their activity on the cutaneous nervous system by affecting the skin’s neuromediators through different mechanisms of action. This review aims to clarify the definition of neurocosmetics, and to describe the features of some functional ingredients and products available on the market, with a look at the regulatory aspect. The attention is devoted to neurocosmetic ingredients for combating skin stress, explaining the stress pathways, which are also correlated with skin aging. “Neuro-relaxing” anti-aging ingredients derived from plant extracts and neurocosmetic strategies to combat inflammatory responses related to skin stress are presented. Afterwards, the molecular basis of sensitive skin and the suitable neurocosmetic ingredients to improve this problem are discussed. With the aim of presenting the major application of Botox-like ingredients as the first neurocosmetics on the market, skin aging is also introduced, and its theory is presented. To confirm the efficacy of the cosmetic products on the market, the concept of cosmetic claims is discussed.
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14
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Sim JH, Ambler WG, Sollohub IF, Howlader MJ, Li TM, Lee HJ, Lu TT. Immune Cell-Stromal Circuitry in Lupus Photosensitivity. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 206:302-309. [PMID: 33397744 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2000905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Photosensitivity is a sensitivity to UV radiation (UVR) commonly found in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients who have cutaneous disease. Upon even ambient UVR exposure, patients can develop inflammatory skin lesions that can reduce the quality of life. Additionally, UVR-exposed skin lesions can be associated with systemic disease flares marked by rising autoantibody titers and worsening kidney disease. Why SLE patients are photosensitive and how skin sensitivity leads to systemic disease flares are not well understood, and treatment options are limited. In recent years, the importance of immune cell-stromal interactions in tissue function and maintenance is being increasingly recognized. In this review, we discuss SLE as an anatomic circuit and review recent findings in the pathogenesis of photosensitivity with a focus on immune cell-stromal circuitry in tissue health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hyun Sim
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065
| | - William G Ambler
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021.,Pediatric Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021
| | - Isabel F Sollohub
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021
| | - Mir J Howlader
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021.,Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065; and
| | - Thomas M Li
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021
| | - Henry J Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065
| | - Theresa T Lu
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021; .,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065.,Pediatric Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021
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Vieyra-Garcia PA, Wolf P. A deep dive into UV-based phototherapy: Mechanisms of action and emerging molecular targets in inflammation and cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 222:107784. [PMID: 33316286 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
UV-based phototherapy (including psoralen plus UVA (PUVA), UVB and UVA1) has a long, successful history in the management of numerous cutaneous disorders. Photoresponsive diseases are etiologically diverse, but most involve disturbances in local (and occasionally systemic) inflammatory cells and/or abnormalities in keratinocytes that trigger inflammation. UV-based phototherapy works by regulating the inflammatory component and inducing apoptosis of pathogenic cells. This results in a fascinating and complex network of simultaneous events-immediate transcriptional changes in keratinocytes, immune cells, and pigment cells; the emergence of apoptotic bodies; and the trafficking of antigen-presenting cells in skin-that quickly transform the microenvironment of UV-exposed skin. Molecular elements in this system of UV recognition and response include chromophores, metabolic byproducts, innate immune receptors, neurotransmitters and mediators such as chemokines and cytokines, antimicrobial peptides, and platelet activating factor (PAF) and PAF-like molecules that simultaneously shape the immunomodulatory effects of UV and their interplay with the microbiota of the skin and beyond. Phototherapy's key effects-proapoptotic, immunomodulatory, antipruritic, antifibrotic, propigmentary, and pro-prebiotic-promote clinical improvement in various skin diseases such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (AD), graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), vitiligo, scleroderma, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) as well as prevention of polymorphic light eruption (PLE). As understanding of phototherapy improves, new therapies (UV- and non-UV-based) are being developed that will modify regulatory T-cells (Treg), interact with (resident) memory T-cells and /or utilize agonists and antagonists as well as antibodies targeting soluble molecules such as cytokines and chemokines, transcription factors, and a variety of membrane-associated receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo A Vieyra-Garcia
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 8, Graz A-8036, Austria.
| | - Peter Wolf
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 8, Graz A-8036, Austria.
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Tokuyama M, Mabuchi T. New Treatment Addressing the Pathogenesis of Psoriasis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207488. [PMID: 33050592 PMCID: PMC7589905 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is an immune cell-mediated inflammatory skin disease. The interleukin (IL)23/IL17 axis plays an important role in the development of psoriasis. The effectiveness of biologic treatments such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α inhibitors (infliximab, adalimumab, certolizumab pegol), IL23 inhibitors (ustekinumab, guselkumab, tildrakizumab, risankizumab), and IL17 inhibitors (secukinumab, ixekizumab, brodalumab) have verified these findings. Immune-related cells such as dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages, in addition to Toll-like receptors and cytokines such as interferon (IFN)α, TNFα, IFNɤ, IL12, IL22, IL23, and IL17, are related to the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Here, we first review new insights regarding the pathogenesis of psoriasis, as it relates to DCs, Langerhans cells, macrophages, the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathway, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor in cutaneous vascular endothelial cells. Based on these findings, we summarize currently available oral treatments and biologics. Furthermore, we describe a new treatment option including Janus kinase inhibitor, tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitor, modulator of sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1, and Rho-associated kinase 2 inhibitor.
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Ramot Y, Böhm M, Paus R. Translational Neuroendocrinology of Human Skin: Concepts and Perspectives. Trends Mol Med 2020; 27:60-74. [PMID: 32981840 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Human skin responds to numerous neurohormones, neuropeptides, and neurotransmitters that reach it via the vasculature or skin nerves, and/or are generated intracutaneously, thus acting in a para- and autocrine manner. This review focuses on how neurohormones impact on human skin physiology and pathology. We highlight basic concepts, major open questions, and translational research perspectives in cutaneous neuroendocrinology and argue that greater emphasis on neuroendocrine human skin research will foster the development of novel dermatological therapies. Furthermore, human skin and its appendages can be used as highly accessible and clinically relevant model systems for probing nonclassical, ancestral neurohormone functions. This calls for close interdisciplinary collaboration between dermatologists, skin biologists, neuroendocrinologists, and neuropharmacologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Ramot
- Department of Dermatology, Hadassah Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Markus Böhm
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ralf Paus
- Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Monasterium Laboratory, Münster, Germany; Centre for Dermatology Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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19
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Zhang Y, Zhang H, Jiang B, Yan S, Lu J. A promising therapeutic target for psoriasis: Neuropeptides in human skin. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 87:106755. [PMID: 32736190 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease featured by excessive proliferation of keratinocytes, clearly defined round erythema and dry, scaly plaques, long-term inflammatory cells infiltration in skin lesions. However, the physiopathological mechanism of psoriasis is still not clearly understood. Neuropeptides, a class of peptides secreted by the nervous system, may play important roles in promoting excessive proliferation of keratinocyte, enhancing angiogenesis, vasodilation, plasma extravasation and chemotaxis of inflammatory cells during the development of psoriasis. To understand the pathogenesis of neuropeptides in psoriasis, we summarized the function of several common neuropeptides in psoriasis and hypothesize neuropeptides may serve as therapeutic potential novel targets in psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hanyi Zhang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Boyue Jiang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Siyu Yan
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Jianyun Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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20
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Noakes R. Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia. An Example of Disrupted Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-Mediated Immunological Homeostasis in the Skin? Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2020; 13:479-484. [PMID: 32801823 PMCID: PMC7399449 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s262803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Sun protection has been recommended by public health authorities to reduce the risk of keratinocyte and melanocyte tumors, yet some sun exposure is required for vitamin D synthesis. Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a cicatricial alopecia that has been reported to have an association with facial photoprotection. The brief review proposes the hypothesis that FFA arises as a result of excessive facial photo-protection with a resultant disturbance in immunological homeostasis mediated via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor-kynurenine pathway axis (AHR/KP) leading to the collapse of immune privilege at the hair bulge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowland Noakes
- Queensland Institute of Dermatology, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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21
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Fan NW, Dohlman TH, Foulsham W, McSoley M, Singh RB, Chen Y, Dana R. The role of Th17 immunity in chronic ocular surface disorders. Ocul Surf 2020; 19:157-168. [PMID: 32470612 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2020.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Th17 cells have been implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. At the ocular surface, Th17 cells have been identified as key effector cells in chronic ocular surface disease. Evidence from murine studies indicates that following differentiation and expansion, Th17 cells migrate from the lymphoid tissues to the eye, where they release inflammatory cytokines including, but not limited to, their hallmark cytokine IL-17A. As the acute phase subsides, a population of long-lived memory Th17 cells persist, which predispose hosts both to chronic inflammation and severe exacerbations of disease; of great interest is the small subset of Th17/1 cells that secrete both IL-17A and IFN-γ in acute-on-chronic disease exacerbation. Over the past decade, substantial progress has been made in deciphering how Th17 cells interact with the immune and neuroimmune pathways that mediate chronic ocular surface disease. Here, we review (i) the evidence for Th17 immunity in chronic ocular surface disease, (ii) regulatory mechanisms that constrain the Th17 immune response, and (iii) novel therapeutic strategies targeting Th17 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nai-Wen Fan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Faculty of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Thomas H Dohlman
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - William Foulsham
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Matthew McSoley
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA; University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Rohan Bir Singh
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Yihe Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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Xu W, Mo J, Ocak U, Travis ZD, Enkhjargal B, Zhang T, Wu P, Peng J, Li T, Zuo Y, Shao A, Tang J, Zhang J, Zhang JH. Activation of Melanocortin 1 Receptor Attenuates Early Brain Injury in a Rat Model of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage viathe Suppression of Neuroinflammation through AMPK/TBK1/NF-κB Pathway in Rats. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:294-308. [PMID: 31486022 PMCID: PMC7007470 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00772-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation plays a vital role in early brain injury (EBI) following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The hypothesis of this study was that activation of melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) with BMS-470539 attenuates EBI by suppression of neuroinflammation after SAH. We utilized BMS-470539, MSG-606, and MRT-68601 to verify the neuroprotective effects of MC1R. We evaluated brain water content, short-term and long-term neurobehavior after SAH. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were utilized to assess the changes of protein levels. The results of western blotting suggested that the expressions of MC1R, phosphorylated-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK), and phosphorylated-TANK binding kinase 1 (p-TBK1) were increased and reached their peak points at 24 h following SAH. Moreover, BMS-470539 treatment notably attenuated neurological deficits caused by SAH, and also notably improved long-term spatial learning and memory abilities after SAH. The underlying mechanisms of the neuroprotection of BMS-470539 involved the suppression of microglia activation, promotion of CD206+ microglia transformation and reduction of neutrophil infiltration by increasing the levels of p-AMPK and p-TBK1 while decreasing the levels of NF-κB, IL-1β, and TNFα. The neuroprotective effects of BMS-470539 were significantly abolished by MSG-606 and MRT-68601. The activation of MC1R with BMS-470539 notably attenuates EBI after SAH by suppression of microglial activation and neutrophil infiltration via the AMPK/TBK1/NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilin Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Jun Mo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Umut Ocak
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Zachary D Travis
- Department of Earth and Biological Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Budbazar Enkhjargal
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Tongyu Zhang
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Pei Wu
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Jianhua Peng
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Yuchun Zuo
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Anwen Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiping Tang
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Jianmin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.
- Brain Research Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.
| | - John H Zhang
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Risley Hall, Room 219, 11041 Campus St, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA.
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Wang A, Bai Y. Dendritic cells: The driver of psoriasis. J Dermatol 2019; 47:104-113. [PMID: 31833093 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.15184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic skin inflammatory disorder, the immune mechanism of which has been profoundly elucidated in the past few years. The dominance of the interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 axis is a significant breakthrough in the understanding of the pathogenesis of psoriasis, and treatment targeting IL-23 and IL-17 has successfully benefited patients with the disease. The skin contains a complex network of dendritic cells (DC) mainly composed of epidermal Langerhans cells, bone marrow-derived dermal conventional DC, plasmacytoid DC and inflammatory DC. As the prominent cellular source of α-interferon, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-12 and IL-23, DC play a pivotal role in psoriasis. Thus, targeting pathogenic DC subsets is a valid strategy for alleviating and preventing psoriasis and other DC-derived diseases. In this review, we survey the known role of DC in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Wang
- Clinical Institute of China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Department of Dermatology and Venerology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - YanPing Bai
- Clinical Institute of China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Department of Dermatology and Venerology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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24
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Webering S, Lunding LP, Vock C, Schröder A, Gaede KI, Herzmann C, Fehrenbach H, Wegmann M. The alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone acts as a local immune homeostasis factor in experimental allergic asthma. Clin Exp Allergy 2019; 49:1026-1039. [PMID: 30980429 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Originally, the neuropeptide α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) has been described as a mediator of skin pigmentation. However, recent studies have shown that α-MSH is able to modulate inflammation in various tissues including the lung. So far, it is still not clear whether α-MSH also plays a role in allergic bronchial asthma. OBJECTIVE This study aimed at investigating the role and regulatory mechanisms of α-MSH in asthma pathogenesis. METHODS α-MSH levels were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid of asthmatic and non-asthmatic individuals as well as of healthy mice and mice with experimental asthma. Wild-type mice were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) and exposed to an OVA aerosol in order to induce experimental allergic asthma. α-MSH was administrated intratracheally, the α-MSH antibody intraperitoneally prior each OVA challenge. Airway inflammation, cytokine production, mucus production, airway hyperresponsiveness and receptor expression were assessed. RESULTS α-MSH levels in BAL of asthmatic individuals and mice were significantly higher compared to healthy controls. In a mouse model of experimental asthma, α-MSH neutralization increased airway inflammation and mucus production, whereas local administration of α-MSH significantly reduced inflammation of the airways. The beneficial effects were further associated with decreased levels of eosinophilic chemoattractant factors that are released by MC5R-positive T helper 2 and airway epithelial cells. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE α-MSH acts as a regulatory factor to maintain local immune homeostasis in allergic bronchial asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Webering
- Division of Asthma Exacerbation & Regulation, Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel- Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Lars Peter Lunding
- Division of Asthma Exacerbation & Regulation, Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel- Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Christina Vock
- Division of Experimental Pneumology, Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel- Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Alexandra Schröder
- Division of Asthma Exacerbation & Regulation, Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel- Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Karoline I Gaede
- BioMaterialBank Nord, Research Center Borstel- Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Christian Herzmann
- Center for Clinical Studies, Research Center Borstel- Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Heinz Fehrenbach
- Division of Experimental Pneumology, Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel- Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Michael Wegmann
- Division of Asthma Exacerbation & Regulation, Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel- Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
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25
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Aresti Sanz J, El Aidy S. Microbiota and gut neuropeptides: a dual action of antimicrobial activity and neuroimmune response. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1597-1609. [PMID: 30997526 PMCID: PMC6598950 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05224-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The gut microbiota is comprised of a vast variety of microbes that colonize the gastrointestinal tract and exert crucial roles for the host health. These microorganisms, partially via their breakdown of dietary components, are able to modulate immune response, mood, and behavior, establishing a chemical dialogue in the microbiota-gut-brain interphase. Changes in the gut microbiota composition and functionality are associated with multiple diseases, in which altered levels of gut-associated neuropeptides are also detected. Gut neuropeptides are strong neuroimmune modulators; they mediate the communication between the gut microbiota and the host (including gut-brain axis) and have also recently been found to exert antimicrobial properties. This highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between gut neuropeptides and microbiota and their implications on host health. Here, we will discuss how gut neuropeptides help to maintain a balanced microbiota and we will point at the missing gaps that need to be further investigated in order to elucidate whether these molecules are related to neuropsychiatric disorders, which are often associated with gut dysbiosis and altered gut neuropeptide levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Aresti Sanz
- Department of Molecular Immunology and Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB), University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sahar El Aidy
- Department of Molecular Immunology and Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB), University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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26
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Böhm M, Luger T. Are melanocortin peptides future therapeutics for cutaneous wound healing? Exp Dermatol 2019; 28:219-224. [PMID: 30661264 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous wound healing is a complex process divided into different phases, that is an inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phase. During these phases, a variety of resident skin cell types but also cells of the immune system orchestrate the healing process. In the last year, it has been shown that the majority of cutaneous cell types express the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) that binds α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with high affinity and elicits pleiotropic biological effects, for example modulation of inflammation and immune responses, cytoprotection, antioxidative defense and collagen turnover. Truncated α-MSH peptides such as Lys-Pro-Val (KPV) as well as derivatives like Lys-d-Pro-Thr (KdPT), the latter containing the amino acid sequence 193-195 of interleukin-1β, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory effects but to lack the pigment-inducing activity of α-MSH. We propose here that such peptides are promising future candidates for the treatment of cutaneous wounds and skin ulcers. Experimental approaches in silico, in vitro, ex vivo and in animal models are outlined. This is followed by an unbiased discussion of the pro and contra arguments of such peptides as future candidates for the therapeutic management of cutaneous wounds and a review of the so-far available data on melanocortin peptides and derivatives in wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Böhm
- Department of Dermatology, Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology of the Skin and Interdisciplinary Endocrinology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Thomas Luger
- Department of Dermatology, Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology of the Skin and Interdisciplinary Endocrinology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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27
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Hart PH, Norval M. Ultraviolet radiation-induced immunosuppression and its relevance for skin carcinogenesis. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2018; 17:1872-1884. [PMID: 29136080 DOI: 10.1039/c7pp00312a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The realisation that UV radiation (UVR) exposure could induce a suppressed immune environment for the initiation of carcinogenesis in the skin was first described more than 40 years ago. Van der Leun and his colleagues contributed to this area in the 1980s and 90s by experiments in mice involving UV wavelength and dose-dependency in the formation of such tumours, in addition to illustrating both the local and systemic effect of the UVR on the immune system. Since these early days, many aspects of the complex pathways of UV-induced immunosuppression have been studied and are outlined in this review. Although most experimental work has involved mice, it is clear that UVR also causes reduced immune responses in humans. Evidence showing the importance of the immune system in determining the risk of human skin cancers is explained, and details of how UVR exposure can down-regulate immunity in the formation and progression of such tumours reviewed. With increasing knowledge of these links and the mechanisms of UVR-induced immunosuppression, novel approaches to enhance immunity to skin tumour antigens in humans are becoming apparent which, hopefully, will reduce the burden of UVR-induced skin cancers in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prue H Hart
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
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28
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Carter DW, Sood RF, Seaton ME, Muffley LA, Honari S, Hocking AM, Arbabi SA, Gibran NS. MC1R gene polymorphisms are associated with dysfunctional immune responses and wound infection after burn injury. J Surg Res 2018; 231:448-452. [PMID: 30278967 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2018.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is associated with organ failure and infectious complications after major burn injury. Recent evidence has linked melanocortin signaling to anti-inflammatory and wound-repair functions, with mutations in the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene leading to increased inflammatory responses. Our group has previously demonstrated that MC1R gene polymorphisms are associated with postburn hypertrophic scarring. Thus, we hypothesized that MC1R single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) would be associated with increased burn-induced SIRS and increased infectious complications. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study of adults (>18 y of age) admitted to our burn center with >20% total body surface area (TBSA) partial/full thickness burns between 2006 and 2013. We screened for five MC1R SNPs (V60L, V92M, R151C, R163Q, T314T) by polymerase chain reaction from genomic DNA isolated from blood samples. We performed a detailed review of each patient chart to identify age, sex, race, ethnicity, %TBSA burned, burn wound infections (BWIs), and 72-hr intravenous fluid volume, the latter a surrogate for a dysfunctional inflammatory response to injury. Association testing was based on multivariable regression. RESULTS Of 106 subjects enrolled, 82 had complete data for analysis. Of these, 64 (78%) were male, with a median age of 39 and median burn size of 30% TBSA. A total of 36 (44%) subjects developed BWIs. The median total administered IV crystalloid in first 72h was 24.6 L. In multivariate analysis, the R151C variant allele was a significant independent risk factor for BWI (adjusted prevalence ratio 2.03; 95% CI: 1.21-3.39; P = 0.007), and the V60L variant allele was independently associated with increased resuscitation fluid volume (P = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to demonstrate a significant association between genetic polymorphisms and a nonfatal burn-induced SIRS complication. Our findings suggest that MC1R polymorphisms contribute to dysfunctional responses to burn injury that may predict infectious and inflammatory complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien W Carter
- Department of Surgery, Maine Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Portland, Maine.
| | - Ravi F Sood
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Washington
| | - Max E Seaton
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Lara A Muffley
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Washington
| | - Shari Honari
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Washington
| | - Ann M Hocking
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Washington
| | - Saman A Arbabi
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Washington
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29
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Le Poole IC, Mehrotra S. Replenishing Regulatory T Cells to Halt Depigmentation in Vitiligo. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc 2018; 18:S38-S45. [PMID: 28941492 DOI: 10.1016/j.jisp.2016.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Vitiligo is a cutaneous autoimmune disease, especially devastating to patients with darker skin tones because of the contrast between unaffected and lesional skin. We studied immune cells infiltrating vitiligo skin and found very few regulatory T cells (Tregs). Vitiligo was not associated with a reduced frequency or function of circulating Tregs. To manipulate Treg function, we used mouse models expressing melanocyte-reactive TCRs, following changes in pelage color. We also isolated splenocytes to measure Treg function and evaluated cutaneous Treg abundance. Even small numbers of Tregs transferred into depigmenting mice could effectively interfere with depigmentation. The same holds true for treatment with rapamycin, readily translatable for use in human patients; such treatment may be well tolerated. Because vitiligo skin is relatively devoid of cells that produce the chemokine CCL22, whereas circulating Tregs express normal levels of its receptor CCR4, we overexpressed Ccl22 in the skin of vitiligo-prone mice to assess the resulting levels of depigmentation. Markedly reduced depigmentation was accompanied by Treg infiltration to the skin. With several options available to support a healthy balance between Tregs and effector T cells, the next challenge will be to render such treatment antigen specific and avoid general immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Caroline Le Poole
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology/Immunology, Oncology Research Institute, Loyola University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
| | - Shikhar Mehrotra
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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30
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Breuer J, Loser K, Mykicki N, Wiendl H, Schwab N. Does the environment influence multiple sclerosis pathogenesis via UVB light and/or induction of vitamin D? J Neuroimmunol 2018; 329:1-8. [PMID: 29793727 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of presumed auto-immune origin. Long-standing observations such as the correlation between MS incidence and geographical latitude or the levels of Vitamin D (Vit D) in the serum have implicated the environmental factors UVB radiation and diet in the etiology of the disease. Clinical trials have been conducted and are currently underway to elucidate whether a Vit D enriched diet or treatment with UVB can influence MS incidence, -severity, and -progression, as well as the ideal time point for treatment. This review summarizes the current scientific knowledge to the environmental factors UVB-light and Vit D concerning the clinical aspects of MS in epidemiological studies and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Breuer
- Department of Neurology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Karin Loser
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nadine Mykicki
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Heinz Wiendl
- Department of Neurology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nicholas Schwab
- Department of Neurology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
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31
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Sternberg F, Vidali S, Holub BS, Stockinger J, Brunner SM, Ebner S, Koller A, Trost A, Reitsamer HA, Schwarzenbacher D, Lang R, Kofler B. Lack of Galanin Receptor 3 Alleviates Psoriasis by Altering Vascularization, Immune Cell Infiltration, and Cytokine Expression. J Invest Dermatol 2018; 138:199-207. [PMID: 28844939 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2017.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The neuropeptide galanin is distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems and in non-neuronal peripheral organs, including the skin. Galanin acts via three G protein-coupled receptors which, except galanin receptor 1, are expressed in various skin structures. The galanin system has been associated with inflammatory processes of the skin and of several other organs. Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease with increased neovascularization, keratinocyte hyperproliferation, a proinflammatory cytokine milieu, and immune cell infiltration. In this study, we showed that galanin receptor 3 is present in endothelial cells in human and murine dermal vessels and is co-expressed with nestin in neo-vessels of psoriatic patients. Moreover, in a murine psoriasis model, we showed that C57/BL6 mice lacking galanin receptor 3 display a milder course of psoriasis upon imiquimod treatment, leading to decreased disease severity, delayed neo-vascularization, reduced infiltration of neutrophils, and significantly lower levels of proinflammatory cytokines compared with wild-type mice. In contrast, galanin receptor 2-knockout animals did not differ significantly from wild type mice at both the macroscopic and molecular levels in their inflammatory response to imiquimod treatment. Our data indicate that galanin receptor 3, but not galanin receptor 2, plays an important role in psoriasis-like skin inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Sternberg
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Silvia Vidali
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Barbara S Holub
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; Department of Dermatology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Julia Stockinger
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Susanne M Brunner
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Sabine Ebner
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Andreas Koller
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Andrea Trost
- Department of Ophthalmology/Optometry, Research Program Experimental Ophthalmology, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
| | - Herbert A Reitsamer
- Department of Ophthalmology/Optometry, Research Program Experimental Ophthalmology, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
| | - David Schwarzenbacher
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Roland Lang
- Department of Dermatology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Barbara Kofler
- Laura Bassi Centre of Expertise-THERAPEP, Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
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32
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Mykicki N, Herrmann AM, Schwab N, Deenen R, Sparwasser T, Limmer A, Wachsmuth L, Klotz L, Köhrer K, Faber C, Wiendl H, Luger TA, Meuth SG, Loser K. Melanocortin-1 receptor activation is neuroprotective in mouse models of neuroinflammatory disease. Sci Transl Med 2017; 8:362ra146. [PMID: 27797962 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaf8732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In inflammation-associated progressive neuroinflammatory disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), inflammatory infiltrates containing T helper 1 (TH1) and TH17 cells cause demyelination and neuronal degeneration. Regulatory T cells (Treg) control the activation and infiltration of autoreactive T cells into the central nervous system (CNS). In MS and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mice, Treg function is impaired. We show that a recently approved drug, Nle4-d-Phe7-α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (NDP-MSH), induced functional Treg, resulting in amelioration of EAE progression in mice. NDP-MSH also prevented immune cell infiltration into the CNS by restoring the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. NDP-MSH exerted long-lasting neuroprotective effects in mice with EAE and prevented excitotoxic death and reestablished action potential firing in mouse and human neurons in vitro. Neuroprotection by NDP-MSH was mediated via signaling through the melanocortin-1 and orphan nuclear 4 receptors in mouse and human neurons. NDP-MSH may be of benefit in treating neuroinflammatory diseases such as relapsing-remitting MS and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Mykicki
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Cells in Motion-Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Alexander M Herrmann
- Cells in Motion-Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Nicholas Schwab
- Department of Neurology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - René Deenen
- Biological and Medical Research Center, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tim Sparwasser
- Institute of Infection Immunology, TWINCORE Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Limmer
- Clinic for Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, University Clinic of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Lydia Wachsmuth
- Department of Clinical Radiology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Luisa Klotz
- Department of Neurology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Karl Köhrer
- Biological and Medical Research Center, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Cornelius Faber
- Cells in Motion-Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Department of Clinical Radiology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,CRC1009 Breaking Barriers and CRC-TR 128 Multiple Sclerosis, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Heinz Wiendl
- Cells in Motion-Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,CRC1009 Breaking Barriers and CRC-TR 128 Multiple Sclerosis, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Thomas A Luger
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Cells in Motion-Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Sven G Meuth
- Cells in Motion-Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,CRC1009 Breaking Barriers and CRC-TR 128 Multiple Sclerosis, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Karin Loser
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany. .,Cells in Motion-Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.,CRC1009 Breaking Barriers and CRC-TR 128 Multiple Sclerosis, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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33
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Obregon C, Kumar R, Pascual MA, Vassalli G, Golshayan D. Update on Dendritic Cell-Induced Immunological and Clinical Tolerance. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1514. [PMID: 29250057 PMCID: PMC5715373 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) as highly efficient antigen-presenting cells are at the interface of innate and adaptive immunity. As such, they are key mediators of immunity and antigen-specific immune tolerance. Due to their functional specialization, research efforts have focused on the characterization of DCs subsets involved in the initiation of immunogenic responses and in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Tolerogenic DCs (tolDCs)-based therapies have been designed as promising strategies to prevent and control autoimmune diseases as well as allograft rejection after solid organ transplantation (SOT). Despite successful experimental studies and ongoing phase I/II clinical trials using autologous tolDCs in patients with type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and in SOT recipients, additional basic research will be required to determine the optimal DC subset(s) and conditioning regimens for tolDCs-based treatments in vivo. In this review, we discuss the characteristics of human DCs and recent advances in their classification, as well as the role of DCs in immune regulation and their susceptibility to in vitro or in vivo manipulation for the development of tolerogenic therapies, with a focus on the potential of tolDCs for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and the prevention of allograft rejection after SOT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Obregon
- Department of Medicine, Transplantation Centre and Transplantation Immunopathology Laboratory, Service of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Transplantation Centre and Transplantation Immunopathology Laboratory, Service of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Antonio Pascual
- Department of Medicine, Transplantation Centre and Transplantation Immunopathology Laboratory, Service of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Surgery, Transplantation Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Vassalli
- Département coeur-vaisseaux, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Fondazione Cardiocentro Ticino, Swiss Institute of Regenerative Medicine (SIRM), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Déla Golshayan
- Department of Medicine, Transplantation Centre and Transplantation Immunopathology Laboratory, Service of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Surgery, Transplantation Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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34
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Padovan E. Modulation of CD4+ T Helper Cell Memory Responses in the Human Skin. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2017; 173:121-137. [PMID: 28787717 DOI: 10.1159/000477728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunological memory is defined as the capacity to mount faster and more effective immune responses against antigenic challenges that have been previously encountered by the host. CD4+ T helper (Th) cells play central roles in the establishment of immunological memory as they assist the functions of other leukocytes. Th cells express polarized cytokine profiles and distinct migratory and seeding capacities, but also retain a certain functional plasticity that allows them to modulate their proliferation, activity, and homing behaviour upon need. Thus, in healthy individuals, T cell immunomodulation fulfils the task of eliciting protective immune responses where they are needed. At times, however, Th plasticity can lead to collateral tissue damage and progression to autoimmune diseases or, conversely, incapacity to reject malignant tissues and clear chronic infections. Furthermore, common immune players and molecular pathways of diseases can lead to different outcomes in different individuals. A mechanistic understanding of those pathways is therefore crucial for developing precise and curative medical interventions. Here, I focus on the skin microenvironment and comprehensively describe some of the cellular and molecular determinants of CD4+ T cell memory responses in homeostatic and pathological conditions. In discussing the cellular network orchestrating cutaneous immunity, I comprehensively describe the bidirectional interaction of skin antigen-presenting cells and mononuclear phagocytes with Th17 lymphocytes, and examine how the outcome of this interaction is influenced by endogenous skin molecules, including sodium salts and neuropeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Padovan
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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35
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Luger TA, Loser K. Novel insights into the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Clin Immunol 2017; 186:43-45. [PMID: 28736273 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2017.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T A Luger
- Dept. of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
| | - K Loser
- Dept. of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The melanocortin system is a primordial and critical system for survival, involved in a wide variety of physiological functions. It includes melanocortin receptors (MCRs) and melanotropin ligands (MCLs). MCRs are important drug targets that can regulate several key physiological processes. Extensive efforts have been made to develop peptide and peptidomimetics targeting melanocortin receptors including MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R. Most research is focused on developing potent and selective melanotropins. However, developing bioavailable melanotropins remains challenging. Areas covered: Herein, the authors summarize promising strategies for developing bioavailable MCLs by using cyclized N-methylated melanotropins, and using cyclotide and tetrapeptide as templates. They discuss their unique advantages in oral availability and targeting MCRs in the central nervous system or in peripheral tissues. Finally, they discuss the observed differences in thepharmacology of MCRs between in vitro and in vivo tests. Expert opinion: N-methylated cyclized melanotropins have great potential to become bio- available drugs targeting MCRs in the brain, while MCR-grafted cyclotides tend to target MCRs in peripheral tissue. A better understanding of the biased signaling process is a new challenge and opportunity for the future discovery of bioavailable MCLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhou
- a Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of Arizona , Tucson , AZ USA
| | - Minying Cai
- a Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of Arizona , Tucson , AZ USA
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Buhl T, Saleh MM, Schön MP. More tolerance for dendritic cells in psoriasis. Exp Dermatol 2017; 26:335-337. [PMID: 27488949 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Timo Buhl
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Mohamed M Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michael P Schön
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Mykicki N, Klenner L, Baumann C, Auriemma M, Sternemann C, Soeberdt M, Elliott GR, Abels C, Luger TA, Loser K. The tripeptide KdPT ameliorates ongoing psoriasis-like skin inflammation in murine and human skin. Exp Dermatol 2016; 26:328-334. [PMID: 27376341 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease appearing as scaly erythematous cutaneous lesions, which are characterized by parakeratosis and acanthosis as well as the infiltration of immune cells, such as T helper-1 and T helper-17 cells. Here, we demonstrated that KdPT, a tripeptide structurally related to the C-terminal amino acids of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, which was previously shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in intestinal inflammation, ameliorated ongoing disease in the mouse model of imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation and in the small xenotransplant mouse model of psoriasis. We could show that systemic KdPT treatment significantly reduced hyperkeratosis and acanthosis in murine as well as human skin. Moreover, KdPT upregulated Foxp3 in CD4+ T cells from mice and from peripheral blood of individuals with psoriasis and decreased the expression of type 1 inflammatory cytokines, indicating that the beneficial effect of KdPT was, at least in part, mediated by the induction of functional regulatory T cells that suppressed the activation of pathogenic CD4+ IFN-γ+ and CD4+ IL-17+ T cells. Thus, these data might suggest KdPT as a potential novel therapeutic alternative for the treatment of psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Mykicki
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Cells in Motion - Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Lars Klenner
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,CRC1009 Breaking Barriers, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christoph Baumann
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Center of Clinical Research (IZKF), University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Matteo Auriemma
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Carlo Sternemann
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | | | - Christoph Abels
- Dr. August Wolff GmbH & Co. KG Arzneimittel, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Thomas A Luger
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Cells in Motion - Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Karin Loser
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Cells in Motion - Cluster of Excellence, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,CRC1009 Breaking Barriers, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Center of Clinical Research (IZKF), University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Singh J, Joshi S, Mumtaz S, Maurya N, Ghosh I, Khanna S, Natarajan VT, Mukhopadhyay K. Enhanced Cationic Charge is a Key Factor in Promoting Staphylocidal Activity of α-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone via Selective Lipid Affinity. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31492. [PMID: 27526963 PMCID: PMC4985751 DOI: 10.1038/srep31492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The steady rise in antimicrobial resistance poses a severe threat to global public health by hindering treatment of an escalating spectrum of infections. We have previously established the potent activity of α-MSH, a 13 residue antimicrobial peptide, against the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. Here, we sought to determine whether an increase in cationic charge in α-MSH could contribute towards improving its staphylocidal potential by increasing its interaction with anionic bacterial membranes. For this we designed novel α-MSH analogues by replacing polar uncharged residues with lysine and alanine. Similar to α-MSH, the designed peptides preserved turn/random coil conformation in artificial bacterial mimic 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine:1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-rac-(1-glycerol) (7:3, w/w) vesicles and showed preferential insertion in the hydrophobic core of anionic membranes. Increased cationic charge resulted in considerable augmentation of antibacterial potency against MSSA and MRSA. With ~18-fold better binding than α-MSH to bacterial mimic vesicles, the most charged peptide KKK-MSH showed enhanced membrane permeabilization and depolarization activity against intact S. aureus. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed a membrane disruptive mode of action for KKK-MSH. Overall, increasing the cationic charge improved the staphylocidal activity of α-MSH without compromising its cell selectivity. The present study would help in designing more effective α-MSH-based peptides to combat clinically relevant staphylococcal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Singh
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Seema Joshi
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Sana Mumtaz
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Nancy Maurya
- Biochemistry and Environmental Toxicology Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Ilora Ghosh
- Biochemistry and Environmental Toxicology Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Shivangi Khanna
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mathura Road, New Delhi-110020, India
| | - Vivek T Natarajan
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mathura Road, New Delhi-110020, India
| | - Kasturi Mukhopadhyay
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
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Kleiner S, Braunstahl GJ, Rüdrich U, Gehring M, Eiz-Vesper B, Luger TA, Steelant B, Seys SF, Kapp A, Böhm M, Hellings PW, Raap U. Regulation of melanocortin 1 receptor in allergic rhinitis in vitro and in vivo. Clin Exp Allergy 2016; 46:1066-74. [PMID: 27196703 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) was shown to inhibit allergic airway inflammation and exert suppressive effects on human basophils. OBJECTIVE This study aims to extend our current knowledge on the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) expression in nasal tissue of patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) and functional effects of α-MSH in human basophils especially from patients with allergic rhinitis. METHODS MC1R expression before and after nasal allergen provocation was studied in nasal mucosal tissue of AR patients and in a mouse model of allergic airway inflammation using immunofluorescence. In vitro regulation of the MC1R and CD203c surface expression on whole-blood basophils of patients with AR and controls was assessed with flow cytometry. Functional effects of α-MSH on isolated basophils were analysed regarding apoptosis with flow cytometry and chemotaxis using a Boyden chamber assay. RESULTS We detected an accumulation of MC1R-positive basophils in nasal mucosa tissue of patients with AR 24 h after nasal allergen provocation. Such accumulation was not present in mucosa sections from healthy controls. In mice with allergic airway inflammation, we found a clear accumulation of MC1R-positive basophils in the nasal tissue compared to control mice. MC1R expression was inducible in AR patients and controls by stimulation with anti-IgE. α-MSH inhibited anti-IgE and grass pollen induced upregulation of CD203c, but had no effect on chemotaxis or apoptosis of basophils in vitro. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE MC1R-positive basophils accumulate in the nasal mucosa of patients with AR after nasal allergen provocation. Since α-MSH suppresses proinflammatory effector functions in human basophils via the MC1R, it constitutes an interesting novel target for modulating the allergic inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kleiner
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - G-J Braunstahl
- Department of Pulmonology, Sint Franciscus Gasthuis, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - U Rüdrich
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - M Gehring
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - B Eiz-Vesper
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - T A Luger
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - B Steelant
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - S F Seys
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - A Kapp
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - M Böhm
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - P W Hellings
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - U Raap
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Bergers LIJC, Reijnders CMA, van den Broek LJ, Spiekstra SW, de Gruijl TD, Weijers EM, Gibbs S. Immune-competent human skin disease models. Drug Discov Today 2016; 21:1479-1488. [PMID: 27265772 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
All skin diseases have an underlying immune component. Owing to differences in animal and human immunology, the majority of drugs fail in the preclinical or clinical testing phases. Therefore animal alternative methods that incorporate human immunology into in vitro skin disease models are required to move the field forward. This review summarizes the progress, using examples from fibrosis, autoimmune diseases, psoriasis, cancer and contact allergy. The emphasis is on co-cultures and 3D organotypic models. Our conclusion is that current models are inadequate and future developments with immune-competent skin-on-chip models based on induced pluripotent stem cells could provide a next generation of skin models for drug discovery and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sander W Spiekstra
- Department of Dermatology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tanja D de Gruijl
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ester M Weijers
- Department of Dermatology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susan Gibbs
- Department of Dermatology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam, University of Amsterdam and VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Li C, Liu T, Zhao N, Zhu L, Wang P, Dai X. Dendritic cells transfected with indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase gene suppressed acute rejection of cardiac allograft. Int Immunopharmacol 2016; 36:31-38. [PMID: 27107370 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2016.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Revised: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunomodulation by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) has been documented in many studies yet its underlying mechanisms remain undefined, especially in solid organ transplantation. Recent research demonstrated that the active expression of IDO in dendritic cells (DCs) regulates immune reaction. This study assessed whether DCs transfected with IDO gene inhibit T cells responses and suppress cardiac allograft rejection. METHODS Adenovirus vector containing IDO gene was transfected into DCs to obtain IDO-positive DCs (IDO(+) DCs). To evaluate the effect of IDO(+) DCs on T cells in vitro, CD4(+) T cell proliferation and apoptosis was assessed in mixed lymphocyte reactions and measured by flow cytometry, respectively. IDO(+) DCs from C57BL/6 mice were injected into BALB/c recipients before heterotopic cardiac transplantation. RESULTS Supernatant fluids from cultures of IDO(+) DCs had decreased tryptophan and increased kynurenine levels, reflecting IDO activity. IDO(+) DCs suppressed CD4(+) T cell responses in vitro, as reflected by decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis. In the transplant model, IDO(+) DCs prolonged survival and alleviated rejection of cardiac allograft in recipients injected with IDO(+) DCs. In vivo, IDO(+) DCs also significantly impaired CD4(+) T cell responses promoting increased apoptosis and a Th2-dominant cytokine shift. CONCLUSIONS IDO overexpression in DCs suppressed T cells alloresponses in vitro, and IDO(+) DCs attenuated acute allograft rejection in vivo. Regulation of tryptophan catabolism by means of IDO overexpression in DCs may be a useful approach in cardiac transplantation and immunological tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin General Surgery Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District,Tianjin 300052, China.
| | - Tong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin General Surgery Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District,Tianjin 300052, China.
| | - Na Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin General Surgery Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District,Tianjin 300052, China.
| | - Liwei Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin General Surgery Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District,Tianjin 300052, China.
| | - Pengzhi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin General Surgery Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District,Tianjin 300052, China.
| | - Xiangchen Dai
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin General Surgery Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Road, Heping District,Tianjin 300052, China.
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Clemson CM, Yost J, Taylor AW. The Role of Alpha-MSH as a Modulator of Ocular Immunobiology Exemplifies Mechanistic Differences between Melanocortins and Steroids. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2016; 25:179-189. [PMID: 26807874 PMCID: PMC5769144 DOI: 10.3109/09273948.2015.1092560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortins are a highly conserved family of peptides and receptors that includes multiple proopiomelanocortin-derived peptides and five defined melanocortin receptors. The melanocortins have an important role in maintaining immune homeostasis and in suppressing inflammation. Within the healthy eye, the melanocortins have a central role in preventing inflammation and maintaining immune privilege. A central mediator of the anti-inflammatory activity is the non-steroidogenic melanocortin peptide alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone. In this review we summarize the major findings of melanocortin regulation of ocular immunobiology with particular interest in the ability of melanocortin to induce immune tolerance and cytoprotection. The melanocortins have therapeutic potential because their mechanisms of action in regulating immunity are distinctly different from the actions of steroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Clemson
- a Autoimmune and Rare Diseases , Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals , Hayward , CA , USA
| | - John Yost
- a Autoimmune and Rare Diseases , Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals , Hayward , CA , USA
| | - Andrew W Taylor
- b Department of Ophthalmology , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA
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Loram LC, Culp ME, Connolly-Strong EC, Sturgill-Koszycki S. Melanocortin peptides: potential targets in systemic lupus erythematosus. Inflammation 2015; 38:260-71. [PMID: 25323206 PMCID: PMC4312383 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-014-0029-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease resulting in loss of self-tolerance with multiple organs, such as the kidney, skin, joints, and the central nervous system (CNS), being targeted. Numerous immunosuppressant therapies are currently being used for the treatment of SLE, but their clinical utility is somewhat variable because of the clinical heterogeneity. Melanocortins are a family of peptides derived from the common precursor protein pro-opiomelanocortin. These multifunctional peptides activate five subtypes of melanocortin receptors expressed on immune, skin, muscle, bone, and kidney cells and cells within the CNS. Melanocortin peptides have demonstrated a variety of biologic actions including immunomodulation, melanogenesis, and renoprotection. This review aims to introduce the melanocortin system and explore the mechanisms by which they may be beneficial in diseases such as SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Carole Loram
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals (formerly Questcor), 26118 Research Road, Hayward, CA, 94545, USA
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45
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Shah PP, Desai PR, Boakye CHA, Patlolla R, Kikwai LC, Babu RJ, Singh M. Percutaneous delivery of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone for the treatment of imiquimod-induced psoriasis. J Drug Target 2015; 24:537-47. [DOI: 10.3109/1061186x.2015.1103743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Punit P. Shah
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA,
| | - Pinaki R. Desai
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA,
| | - Cedar H. A. Boakye
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA,
| | - Ram Patlolla
- Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Integrated Product Development, Bachupallyi, Hyderabad, India, and
| | - Loice C. Kikwai
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA,
| | - R. Jayachandra Babu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Mandip Singh
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA,
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47
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Fu RH, Tsai CW, Tsai RT, Liu SP, Chan TM, Ho YC, Lin HL, Chen YM, Hung HS, Chiu SC, Tsai CH, Wang YC, Shyu WC, Lin SZ. Irisflorentin Modifies Properties of Mouse Bone Marrow-Derived Dendritic Cells and Reduces the Allergic Contact Hypersensitivity Responses. Cell Transplant 2015; 24:573-88. [PMID: 25654487 DOI: 10.3727/096368915x687002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Irisflorentin is an isoflavone component derived from the roots of Belamcanda chinensis (L.) DC. In traditional Chinese medicine, this herb has pharmacological properties to treat inflammatory disorders. Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial modulators for the development of optimal T-cell immunity and maintenance of tolerance. Aberrant activation of DCs can induce harmful immune responses, and so agents that effectively improve DC properties have great clinical value. We herein investigated the effects of irisflorentin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated maturation of mouse bone marrow-derived DCs in vitro and in the contact hypersensitivity response (CHSR) in vivo. Our results demonstrated that treatment with up to 40 μM irisflorentin does not cause cellular toxicity. Irisflorentin significantly lessened the proinflammatory cytokine production (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and interleukin-12p70) by LPS-stimulated DCs. Irisflorentin also inhibited the expression of LPS-induced major histocompatibility complex class II and costimulatory molecules (CD40 and CD86) on LPS-stimulated DCs. In addition, irisflorentin diminished LPS-stimulated DC-elicited allogeneic T-cell proliferation. Furthermore, irisflorentin significantly interfered with LPS-induced activation of IκB kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38, as well as the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. Subsequently, treatment with irisflorentin obviously weakened 2,4-dinitro-1-fluorobenzene-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity. These findings suggest new insights into the role of irisflorentin as an immunotherapeutic adjuvant through its capability to modulate the properties of DCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru-Huei Fu
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Center for Neuropsychiatry, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wen Tsai
- Department of Nutrition, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Rong-Tzong Tsai
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ping Liu
- Center for Neuropsychiatry, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Min Chan
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Medical University Beigang Hospital, Yunlin, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tainan Municipal An-Nan Hospital-China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Ho
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Lien Lin
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yue-Mi Chen
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Huey-Shan Hung
- Center for Neuropsychiatry, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Chih Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Center for Neuropsychiatry, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Hai Tsai
- Department of Pediatrics, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chi Wang
- Biomedical Technology and Device Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Woei-Cherng Shyu
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Center for Neuropsychiatry, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shinn-Zong Lin
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Center for Neuropsychiatry, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Medical University Beigang Hospital, Yunlin, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tainan Municipal An-Nan Hospital-China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Wolnicka-Glubisz A, Strickland FM, Wielgus A, Anver M, Merlino G, De Fabo EC, Noonan FP. A melanin-independent interaction between Mc1r and Met signaling pathways is required for HGF-dependent melanoma. Int J Cancer 2015; 136:752-60. [PMID: 24975581 PMCID: PMC4262613 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Revised: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) signaling stimulates black eumelanin production through a cAMP-dependent pathway. MC1R polymorphisms can impair this process, resulting in a predominance of red phaeomelanin. The red hair, fair skin and UV sensitive phenotype is a well-described melanoma risk factor. MC1R polymorphisms also confer melanoma risk independent of pigment. We investigated the effect of Mc1r deficiency in a mouse model of UV-induced melanoma. C57BL/6-Mc1r+/+-HGF transgenic mice have a characteristic hyperpigmented black phenotype with extra-follicular dermal melanocytes located at the dermal/epidermal junction. UVB induces melanoma, independent of melanin pigmentation, but UVA-induced and spontaneous melanomas are dependent on black eumelanin. We crossed these mice with yellow C57BL/6-Mc1re/e animals which have a non-functional Mc1r and produce predominantly yellow phaeomelanin. Yellow C57BL/6-Mc1re/e-HGF mice produced no melanoma in response to UVR or spontaneously even though the HGF transgene and its receptor Met were expressed. Total melanin was less than in C57BL/6-Mc1r+/+-HGF mice, hyperpigmentation was not observed and there were few extra-follicular melanocytes. Thus, functional Mc1r was required for expression of the transgenic HGF phenotype. Heterozygous C57BL/6-Mc1re/+-HGF mice were black and hyperpigmented and, although extra-follicular melanocytes and skin melanin content were similar to C57BL/6-Mc1r+/+-HGF animals, they developed UV-induced and spontaneous melanomas with significantly less efficiency by all criteria. Thus, heterozygosity for Mc1r was sufficient to restore the transgenic HGF phenotype but insufficient to fully restore melanoma. We conclude that a previously unsuspected melanin-independent interaction between Mc1r and Met signaling pathways is required for HGF-dependent melanoma and postulate that this pathway is involved in human melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Wolnicka-Glubisz
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC; Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
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Hashimoto M, Sato EF, Hiramoto K, Kasahara E, Inoue M, Kitagawa S. Role of adrenocorticotropic hormone in the modulation of pollinosis induced by pollen antigens. Neuroimmunomodulation 2015; 22:256-62. [PMID: 25501673 DOI: 10.1159/000368309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A mild restraint stressor suppressed an increase in the levels of Th2-dependent cytokines and IgE, thereby reducing the symptoms of pollinosis. In the present study, to clarify the mechanism of action of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in improving the symptoms of pollinosis, we studied the effects of ACTH on the plasma level of histamine, mast cell number in nasal-associated lymphoid tissue (NALT) and the T cell differentiation in splenocytes. METHODS The role of ACTH in the development of pollen antigen-induced pollinosis was studied in mice. Allergic symptoms and parameters were measured on day 17 after sensitization. To investigate the effects of ACTH on T cell differentiation, we stimulated splenocytes obtained from control mice with ACTH and CD3/CD28 in vitro, and measured the cytokine production in the culture supernatant. RESULTS The plasma levels of IL-10, IgE and histamine and mast cell number in NALT were increased in the sensitized animals in association with a concomitant increase in the incidence of sneezing and nasal rubbing. The intraperitoneal administration of ACTH decreased the IL-10, IgE and histamine levels in the plasma and mast cell number in NALT, while increasing the IFN-γ level and suppressing the incidence of nasal rubbing. Furthermore, the production of IFN-γ increased, while the IL-4 level was suppressed after 2 days in culture. CONCLUSIONS The present findings showed that ACTH directly affects T cell differentiation and promotes Th1-type reactions. The regulation of the Th1/Th2 balance by ACTH may result in a decrease in the pathological features of pollinosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maki Hashimoto
- Department of Physiology, Osaka City University Medical School, Suzuka, Japan
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Nasti TH, Timares L. MC1R, eumelanin and pheomelanin: their role in determining the susceptibility to skin cancer. Photochem Photobiol 2014; 91:188-200. [PMID: 25155575 DOI: 10.1111/php.12335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Skin pigmentation is due to the accumulation of two types of melanin granules in the keratinocytes. Besides being the most potent blocker of ultraviolet radiation, the role of melanin in photoprotection is complex. This is because one type of melanin called eumelanin is UV absorbent, whereas the other, pheomelanin, is photounstable and may even promote carcinogenesis. Skin hyperpigmentation may be caused by stress or exposure to sunlight, which stimulates the release of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) from damaged keratinocytes. Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) is a key signaling molecule on melanocytes that responds to α-MSH by inducing expression of enzymes responsible for eumelanin synthesis. Persons with red hair have mutations in the MC1R causing its inactivation; this leads to a paucity of eumelanin production and makes red-heads more susceptible to skin cancer. Apart from its effects on melanin production, the α-MSH/MC1R signaling is also a potent anti-inflammatory pathway and has been shown to promote antimelanoma immunity. This review will focus on the role of MC1R in terms of its regulation of melanogenesis and influence on the immune system with respect to skin cancer susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahseen H Nasti
- The Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL
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