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Zhang J, Li AM, Kansler ER, Li MO. Cancer immunity by tissue-resident type 1 innate lymphoid cells and killer innate-like T cells. Immunol Rev 2024; 323:150-163. [PMID: 38506480 PMCID: PMC11102320 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13319] [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] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Cancer progression can be restrained by tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in a process termed cancer immunosurveillance. Based on how lymphocytes are activated and recruited to the tumor tissue, cancer immunity is either pre-wired, in which innate lymphocytes and innate-like T cells are directly recruited to and activated in tumors following their differentiation in primary lymphoid organs; or priming-dependent, in which conventional adaptive T cells are first primed by cognate antigens in secondary lymphoid organs before homing to and reactivated in tumors. While priming-dependent cancer immunity has been a focus of cancer immunology research for decades, in part due to historical preconception of cancer theory and tumor model choice as well as clinical success of conventional adaptive T cell-directed therapeutic programs, recent studies have revealed that pre-wired cancer immunity mediated by tissue-resident type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s) and killer innate-like T cells (ILTCKs) is an integral component of the cancer immunosurveillance process. Herein we review the distinct ontogenies and cancer-sensing mechanisms of ILC1s and ILTCKs in murine genetic cancer models as well as the conspicuously conserved responses in human malignancies. How ILC1s and ILTCKs may be targeted to broaden the scope of cancer immunotherapy beyond conventional adaptive T cells is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Albert M. Li
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily R. Kansler
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ming O. Li
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
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2
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Kang S, Jin S, Mao X, He B, Wu C. CD4 +T and CD8 +T Cells in Uterus Exhibit Both Selective Dysfunction and Residency Signatures. J Immunol Res 2024; 2024:5582151. [PMID: 38690552 PMCID: PMC11057950 DOI: 10.1155/2024/5582151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Unlike T cells in other tissues, uterine T cells must balance strong immune defense against pathogens with tolerance to semiallogeneic fetus. Our previous study fully elucidated the characteristics of γδT cells in nonpregnant uterus and the mechanism modulated by estrogen. However, comprehensive knowledge of the immunological properties of αβT (including CD4+T cells and CD8+T) cells in nonpregnancy uterus has not been acquired. In this study, we fully compared the immunological properties of αβT cells between uterus and blood using mouse and human sample. It showed that most of CD4+T cells and CD8+T cells in murine uterus and human endometrium were tissue resident memory T cells which highly expressed tissue residence markers CD69 and/or CD103. In addition, both CD4+T cells and CD8+T cells in uterus highly expressed inhibitory molecular PD-1 and cytokine IFN-γ. Uterine CD4+T cells highly expressed IL-17 and modulated by transcription factor pSTAT3. Moreover, we compared the similarities and differences between human and murine uterine T cell phenotype. Together, uterine CD4+T cells and CD8+ cells exhibited a unique mixed signature of T cell dysfunction, activation, and effector function which enabled them to balance strong immune defense against pathogens with tolerance to fetus. Our study fully elucidated the unique immunologic properties of uterine CD4+T and CD8+T cells and provided a base for further investigation of functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangpeng Kang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of the Research and Development of Novel Pharmaceutical Preparations, The Hunan Provincial University Key Laboratory of the Fundamental and Clinical Research on Functional Nucleic Acid, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, China
| | - Shuiping Jin
- Clinical Research Center of Clifford Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueying Mao
- Clinical Research Center of Clifford Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - BinSheng He
- Hunan Key Laboratory of the Research and Development of Novel Pharmaceutical Preparations, The Hunan Provincial University Key Laboratory of the Fundamental and Clinical Research on Functional Nucleic Acid, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, China
| | - Changyou Wu
- Clinical Research Center of Clifford Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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3
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Katirci E, Kendirci-Katirci R, Korgun ET. Are innate lymphoid cells friend or foe in human pregnancy? Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13834. [PMID: 38500395 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13834] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are involved in the innate immune system because they lack specific antigen receptors and lineage markers. ILCs also display phenotypic and characteristic features of adaptive immune cells. Therefore, ILCs are functional in essential interactions between adaptive and innate immunity. ILCs are found in both lymphoid and nonlymphoid tissues and migrate to the area of inflammation during the inflammatory process. ILCs respond to pathogens by producing a variety of cytokines and are involved in the barrier defense of antigens and in many immunological processes such as allergic events. Recent research has shown that ILCs are functional during human pregnancy and have been suggested to be essential for the healthy progression of pregnancy. In this review, we focus on the role of ILCs in human pregnancy by discussing the relationship between ILCs and the pregnancy microenvironment, specifically summarizing the role of ILCs in physiological and pathological pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ertan Katirci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahi Evran University, Kirsehir, Turkey
| | - Remziye Kendirci-Katirci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Emin Turkay Korgun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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Pang XL, Li J, Wang J, Yan SS, Yang J. MiR-142-3p Regulates ILC1s by Targeting HMGB1 via the NF-κB Pathway in a Mouse Model of Early Pregnancy Loss. Curr Med Sci 2024; 44:195-211. [PMID: 38393528 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-024-2833-y] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a class of newly discovered immunocytes. Group 1 ILCs (ILC1s) are identified in the decidua of humans and mice. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is predicted to be one of the target genes of miR-142-3p, which is closely related to pregnancy-related diseases. Furthermore, miR-142-3p and HMGB1 are involved in regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. This study aimed to examine the regulatory effect of miR-142-3p on ILC1s and the underlying mechanism involving HMGB1 and the NF-κB signaling pathway. METHODS Mouse models of normal pregnancy and abortion were constructed, and the alterations of ILC1s, miR-142-3p, ILC1 transcription factor (T-bet), and pro-inflammatory cytokines of ILC1s (TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-2) were detected in mice from different groups. The targeting regulation of HMGB1 by miR-142-3p in ILC1s, and the expression of HMGB1 in normal pregnant mice and abortive mice were investigated. In addition, the regulatory effects of miR-142-3p and HMGB1 on ILC1s were detected in vitro by CCK-8, Annexin-V/PI, ELISA, and RT-PCR, respectively. Furthermore, changes of the NF-κB signaling pathway in ILC1s were examined in the different groups. For the in vivo studies, miR-142-3p-Agomir was injected in the uterus of abortive mice to evaluate the abortion rate and alterations of ILC1s at the maternal-fetal interface, and further detect the expression of HMGB1, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the NF-κB signaling pathway. RESULTS The number of ILC1s was significantly increased, the level of HMGB1 was significantly upregulated, and that of miR-142-3p was considerably downregulated in the abortive mice as compared with the normal pregnant mice (all P<0.05). In addition, miR-142-3p was found to drastically inhibit the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway (P<0.05). The number of ILC1s and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly downregulated and the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway was inhibited in the miR-142-3p Agomir group (all P<0.05). CONCLUSION miR-142-3p can regulate ILC1s by targeting HMGB1 via the NF-κB signaling pathway, and attenuate the inflammation at the maternal-fetal interface in abortive mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Li Pang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Jie Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
- Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development in Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Si-Si Yan
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China.
- Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development in Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430060, China.
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Ikuta K, Asahi T, Cui G, Abe S, Takami D. Control of the Development, Distribution, and Function of Innate-Like Lymphocytes and Innate Lymphoid Cells by the Tissue Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1444:111-127. [PMID: 38467976 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-9781-7_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Recently, considerable attention has been directed toward innate-like T cells (ITCs) and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) owing to their indispensable contributions to immune responses, tissue homeostasis, and inflammation. Innate-like T cells include NKT cells, MAIT cells, and γδ T cells, whereas ILCs include NK cells, type 1 ILCs (ILC1s), type 2 ILCs (ILC2s), and type 3 ILCs (ILC3s). Many of these ITCs and ILCs are distributed to specific tissues and remain tissue-resident, while others, such as NK cells and some γδ T cells, circulate through the bloodstream. Nevertheless, recent research has shed light on novel subsets of innate immune cells that exhibit characteristics intermediate between tissue-resident and circulating states under normal and pathological conditions. The local microenvironment frequently influences the development, distribution, and function of these innate immune cells. This review aims to consolidate the current knowledge on the functional heterogeneity of ITCs and ILCs, shaped by local environmental cues, with particular emphasis on IL-15, which governs the activities of the innate immune cells involved in type 1 immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichi Ikuta
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Takuma Asahi
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Guangwei Cui
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinya Abe
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Daichi Takami
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Chu J, Liu W, Hu X, Zhang H, Jiang J. P2RY13 is a prognostic biomarker and associated with immune infiltrates in renal clear cell carcinoma: A comprehensive bioinformatic study. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1646. [PMID: 38045624 PMCID: PMC10691167 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1646] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a common and aggressive form of cancer with a high incidence globally. This study aimed to investigate the role of P2RY13 in the progression of ccRCC and elucidate its mechanism of action. Methods Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases were used to extract gene expression profiles of ccRCC. These profiles were annotated and visualized by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analyses, as well as Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). The STRING database was used to establish a protein-protein interaction network and to analyze the functional similarity. The GEPIA2 database was used to predict survival associated with hub genes. Meanwhile, the TIMER2.0 database was used to assess immune cell infiltration and its link with the hub genes. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to determine the difference between ccRCC and adjacent normal tissue. Results We identified 272 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). GO and KEGG analyses suggested that DEGs were primarily involved in lymphocyte activation, inflammatory response, immunological effector mechanism pathways. By cytohubba, the 20 highest-scoring hub genes were screened to identify critical genes in the protein-protein interaction network linked with ccRCC. Resting dendritic cells, CD8 T cells, and activated mast cells all showed a significant positive correlation with these hub genes. Moreover, a higher immune score was associated with increased prognostic risk scores, which in turn correlated with a poorer prognosis. IHC revealed that P2RY13 was expressed at higher levels in ccRCC compared to para-cancer tissues. Conclusion Identifying the DEGs will aid in the understanding of the causes and molecular mechanisms involved in ccRCC. P2RY13 may play a pivotal role in the progression and prognosis of ccRCC, potentially driving carcinogenesis though immune system mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chu
- Department of OncologyThe First People's Hospital of ZiyangZiyangChina
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of General Family MedicineThe First People's Hospital of NeiJiangNeiJiangChina
| | - Xinyue Hu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunming First People's HospitalKunming Medical UniversityKunmingChina
| | - Huiling Zhang
- Department of OncologyThe First People's Hospital of ZiyangZiyangChina
| | - Jiudong Jiang
- Department of SurgeryThe First People's Hospital of ZiYangZiyangChina
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Han M, Hu L, Wu D, Zhang Y, Li P, Zhao X, Zeng Y, Ren G, Hou Z, Pang Y, Zhao T, Zhong C. IL-21R-STAT3 signalling initiates a differentiation program in uterine tissue-resident NK cells to support pregnancy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7109. [PMID: 37925507 PMCID: PMC10625623 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42990-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue-resident Natural Killer (trNK) cells are crucial components of local immunity that activate rapidly upon infection. However, under steady state conditions, their responses are tightly controlled to prevent unwanted tissue damage. The mechanisms governing their differentiation and activation are not fully understood. Here, we characterise uterine trNK cells longitudinally during pregnancy by single cell RNA sequencing and find that the combined expression pattern of 4-1BB and CD55 defines their three distinct stages of differentiation in mice. Mechanistically, an IL-21R-STAT3 axis is essential for initiating the trNK cell differentiation. The fully differentiated trNK cells demonstrate enhanced functionality, which is necessary for remodelling spiral arteries in the decidua. We identify an apoptotic program that is specific to the terminal differentiation stage, which may preclude tissue damage by these highly activated trNK cells. In summary, uterine trNK cells become intensely active and effective during pregnancy, but tightly controlled via a differentiation program that also limits potential harm, suggesting an intricate mechanism for harnessing trNK cells in maintaining pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengwei Han
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Luni Hu
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Di Wu
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yime Zhang
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Peng Li
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xingyu Zhao
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yanyu Zeng
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guanqun Ren
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhiyuan Hou
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yanli Pang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tongbiao Zhao
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Zhong
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Hu L, Han M, Deng Y, Gong J, Hou Z, Zeng Y, Zhang Y, He J, Zhong C. Genetic distinction between functional tissue-resident and conventional natural killer cells. iScience 2023; 26:107187. [PMID: 37404378 PMCID: PMC10316664 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue-residential natural killer (trNK) cells act as pioneering responders during infectious challenges. However, their discrimination with conventional NK (cNK) cells is still an issue. Through an integrative transcriptome comparison of the two NK subgroups from different tissues, we have defined two genesets capable of efficiently distinguishing them. Based on the two genesets, a fundamental difference between the activation of trNK and cNK is identified and further confirmed. Mechanistically, we have discovered a particular role of chromatin landscape in regulating the trNK activation. In addition, IL-21R and IL-18R are respectively highly expressed by trNK and cNK, indicating a role of cytokine milieu in determining their differential activation. Indeed, IL-21 is particularly critical in accessorily promoting trNK activation using a bunch of bifunctional transcription factors. Together, this study sheds light on the bona fide difference between trNK and cNK, which will further expand our knowledge about their distinct functionalities during immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luni Hu
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Immunology, NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Mengwei Han
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Immunology, NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yichen Deng
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Immunology, NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jingjing Gong
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhiyuan Hou
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yanyu Zeng
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Immunology, NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yime Zhang
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Immunology, NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jing He
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Beijing Key Laboratory for Rheumatism Mechanism and Immune Diagnosis, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Zhong
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Immunology, NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
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Evers BD, Hils M, Heuser C, Hölge IM, Argiriu D, Skabytska Y, Kaesler S, Posch C, Knolle PA, Biedermann T. Inflammatory Cues Direct Skin-Resident Type 1 Innate Lymphoid Cells to Adopt a Psoriasis-Promoting Identity. JID INNOVATIONS 2023; 3:100204. [PMID: 37533580 PMCID: PMC10392090 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjidi.2023.100204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are gatekeepers in barrier organs, where they maintain tissue integrity and contribute to host defense as well as tissue repair. Inappropriate activation of ILCs, however, can lead to immunopathology with detrimental results. In this study, we focused on type 1 ILCs (ILC1s), which under inflammatory conditions constitute a poorly defined population with ambiguous functions. To delineate the properties of ILC1s in skin pathology, we used the well-established mouse model of imiquimod-induced psoriasis. Although ILC1s represented a minority among cutaneous lymphocytes in vehicle-treated controls, they rapidly expanded during early psoriasis and ultimately increased by >20-fold. This rapid increase was verified using two additional psoriasis models. Inflammatory ILC1s from imiquimod-treated skin were defined as CD44+, CXCR6+, and CD11b+ and substantially contributed to TNF-α and GM-CSF production, rendering them a potential candidate to shape the inflammatory infiltrate. In accordance with the psoriasis-specific microenvironment, skin ILC1s upregulated the IL-23 receptor whereas expression of the IL-12Rβ2 subunit was diminished. As a consequence, neutralization of IL-12 only had a minor impact, whereas blocking IL-23 reduced both ILC1 abundance and disease severity. Together, our findings identify skin ILC1s as a likely player in early psoriasis and a prospective target for therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrix D.G. Evers
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Miriam Hils
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph Heuser
- Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Department of Functional Immune Cell Modulation, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga M. Hölge
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Désirée Argiriu
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Yuliya Skabytska
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Kaesler
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Posch
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Vienna Healthcare Group, Vienna, Austria
- Sigmund Freud University Vienna, Faculty of Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Percy A. Knolle
- Institute of Molecular Immunology and Experimental Oncology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Tilo Biedermann
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
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10
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Lopes N, Vivier E, Narni-Mancinelli E. Natural killer cells and type 1 innate lymphoid cells in cancer. Semin Immunol 2023; 66:101709. [PMID: 36621291 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a group of innate lymphocytes that do not express RAG-dependent rearranged antigen-specific cell surface receptors. ILCs are classified into five groups according to their developmental trajectory and cytokine production profile. They encompass NK cells, which are cytotoxic, helper-like ILCs 1-3, which functionally mirror CD4+ T helper (Th) type 1, Th2 and Th17 cells respectively, and lymphoid tissue inducer (LTi) cells. NK cell development depends on Eomes (eomesodermin), whereas the ILC1 program is regulated principally by the transcription factor T-bet (T-box transcription factor Tbx21), that of ILC2 is regulated by GATA3 (GATA-binding protein 3) and that of ILC3 is regulated by RORγt (RAR-related orphan receptor γ). NK cells were discovered close to fifty years ago, but ILC1s were first described only about fifteen years ago. Within the ILC family, NK and ILC1s share many similarities, as witnessed by their cell surface phenotype which largely overlap. NK cells and ILC1s have been reported to respond to tissue inflammation and intracellular pathogens. Several studies have reported an antitumorigenic role for NK cells in both humans and mice, but data for ILC1s are both scarce and contradictory. In this review, we will first describe the different NK cell and ILC1 subsets, their effector functions and development. We will then discuss their role in cancer and the effects of the tumor microenvironment on their metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noella Lopes
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Eric Vivier
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France; Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France; APHM, Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille-Immunopôle, Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Narni-Mancinelli
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France.
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11
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Wolf K, Ibrahim SA, Schneiderman S, Riehl V, Dambaeva S, Beaman K. Conventional natural killer cells control vascular remodeling in the uterus during pregnancy by acidifying the extracellular matrix with a2V. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:121-132. [PMID: 36173897 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac184] [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: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular remodeling within the uterus immediately before and during early pregnancy increases blood flow in the fetus and prevents the development of gestational hypertension. Tissue-resident natural killer (trNK) cells secrete pro-angiogenic growth factors but are insufficient for uterine artery (UtA) remodeling in the absence of conventional natural killer (cNK) cells. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) is activated in acidic environments to promote UtA remodeling. We have previously shown that ATPase a2V plays a role in regulating the function of cNK cells during pregnancy. We studied the effect of a2V deletion on uterine cNK cell populations and pregnancy outcomes in VavCrea2Vfl/fl mice, where a2V is conditionally deleted in hematopoietic stem cells. Conventional NKcells were reduced but trNK cells were retained in implantation sites at gestational day 9.5, and UtA remodeling was inhibited despite no differences in concentrations of pro-angiogenic growth factors. The ratio of pro-MMP9 to total was significantly elevated in VavCrea2Vfl/fl mice, and MMP9 activity was significantly reduced. The pH of implantation sites was significantly elevated in VavCrea2Vfl/fl mice. We concluded that the role of cNK cells in the uterus is to acidify the extracellular matrix (ECM) using a2V, which activates MMP9 to degrade the ECM, release bound pro-angiogenic growth factors, and contribute to UtA remodeling. Our results are significant for the understanding of the development of gestational hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Wolf
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Safaa A Ibrahim
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sylvia Schneiderman
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Valerie Riehl
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Svetlana Dambaeva
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kenneth Beaman
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
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12
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Baines KJ, Klausner MS, Patterson VS, Renaud SJ. Interleukin-15 deficient rats have reduced osteopontin at the maternal-fetal interface. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1079164. [PMID: 37152295 PMCID: PMC10157472 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1079164] [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: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Uterine Natural Killer (NK) cells are the predominant immune cells within the decidua during early pregnancy. These cells are thought to regulate aspects of decidualization and placental development, but their functions remain poorly characterized, especially in species with deeply invading trophoblasts such as humans and rats. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine required for NK cell development and survival. IL-15 mutant (IL15Δ/Δ) rats lack NK cells and exhibit altered placental development with precocious trophoblast invasion. In this study, we profiled gene expression differences between wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ implantation sites to reveal candidate factors produced by uterine NK cells that may regulate placentation and trophoblast invasion. Methods: Clariom S gene expression profiling was performed using implantation sites collected from pregnant wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ rats on gestational day 9.5. Levels and localization of perforin and osteopontin in implantation sites from wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ rats were further analyzed. The effect of osteopontin on the invasive capacity of rat trophoblasts was evaluated using Matrigel-based Transwell assays. Results: There were 257 genes differentially expressed between wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ implantation sites on gestational day 9.5, including decreased expression of various NK cell markers in IL15Δ/Δ rats, as well as Spp1, which encodes osteopontin. In wild-type rats, osteopontin was present within the decidua basalis and adjacent to the primitive placenta, and osteopontin colocalized with the NK cell marker perforin. Osteopontin was also detectable in uterine glands. Conversely, in IL15Δ/Δ rats, osteopontin and perforin were not readily detectable in the decidua despite robust osteopontin levels in uterine glands. Neutralization of osteopontin in media conditioned by cells isolated from the decidua decreased invasion of rat trophoblasts, suggesting that reduced levels of osteopontin are unlikely to account for the precocious trophoblast invasion in IL15Δ/Δ rats. Conclusion: Osteopontin is expressed by NK cells at the maternal-fetal interface in rats and may contribute to modulation of trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly J. Baines
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Michelle S. Klausner
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Violet S. Patterson
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J. Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Stephen J. Renaud,
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13
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Jiang L, Cao D, Yeung WSB, Lee KF. Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Reveals Interactions between Endometrial Stromal Cells, Epithelial Cells, and Lymphocytes during Mouse Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010213. [PMID: 36613656 PMCID: PMC9820401 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) is an essential process facilitating embryo implantation. However, the roles of non-decidualized and decidualized ESCs in regulating the microenvironment of a receptive endometrium remain unclear. We investigated single-cell transcriptomic changes in the uterus of a CD-1 mouse model at the post-implantation stage. The implantation and inter-implantation sites of the uteruses of pregnant mice at 4.5 and 5.5 days post-coitum were dissected for single-cell RNA sequencing. We identified eight cell types: epithelial cells, stromal cells, endothelial cells, mesothelial cells, lymphocytes, myocytes, myeloids, and pericytes. The ESC transcriptome suggests that the four ESC subtypes are involved in the extracellular remodeling during implantation. The trajectory plot of ESC subtypes indicates embryo implantation that involves a differentiation pathway from undifferentiated ESCs (ESC 1) to decidualized ESCs (DEC ESCs), with distinct signaling pathways between the ESC subtypes. Furthermore, the ligand-receptor analysis suggests that ESCs communicate with epithelial cells and immune cells through nectin and ICAM signaling. Collectively, both decidualized and non-decidualized ESCs may regulate the endometrial microenvironment for optimal endometrial receptivity and immune tolerance. This study provides insights on the molecular and cellular characteristics of mouse ESCs in modulating the epithelial and lymphocyte functions during early embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luhan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dandan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +852-2816-1947
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14
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To kill or not to kill - The role of the tumor microenvironment in shaping group 1 ILC functions. Semin Immunol 2022; 61-64:101670. [PMID: 36372017 PMCID: PMC7613863 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Group 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC) comprise two major IFN-γ producing populations, namely Natural Killer (NK) cells, and ILC1s. Recent studies have revealed a complex and diverse composition of group 1 ILC subsets infiltrating different tumors. In this review, we will outline the commonalities and differences between group 1 ILC subsets in both mice and humans, discuss how the tissue and tumor microenvironment shapes their phenotype and functions, as well as describe their contrasting roles in the response to different cancers.
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15
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Colucci F. Uterine NK Cells Ace an "A" in Education: NKG2A Sets Up Crucial Functions at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 209:1421-1425. [PMID: 36192118 PMCID: PMC7613701 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
I argue here that reproduction was a driving force in the evolution of NK-cell education, which is set by interactions between inhibitory receptors and self MHC. Maternal lymphocytes also interact with allogeneic MHC on fetal trophoblast cells. How the maternal immune system accommodates the semi-allogeneic fetus is a fascinating question. But it may be the wrong question. Tissue lymphocytes, like uterine NK (uNK) cells, do not attack the mismatched fetus and its placenta. Instead, they help the local vasculature to accommodate changes necessary to nourish the fetus. Education of uNK cells, driven by the ancient CD94:NKG2A inhibitory receptor and self MHC, sets them up to deliver these key functions at the maternal-fetal interface. /112
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK,University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK
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16
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Moffett A, Shreeve N. Local immune recognition of trophoblast in early human pregnancy: controversies and questions. Nat Rev Immunol 2022; 23:222-235. [PMID: 36192648 PMCID: PMC9527719 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-022-00777-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The role of the maternal immune system in reproductive success in humans remains controversial. Here we focus on the events that occur in the maternal decidua during the first few weeks of human pregnancy, because this is the site at which maternal leukocytes initially interact with and can recognize fetal trophoblast cells, potentially involving allorecognition by both T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are the dominant leukocyte population in first-trimester decidua, and genetic studies point to a role of allorecognition by uterine NK cells in establishing a boundary between the mother and the fetus. By contrast, definitive evidence that allorecognition by decidual T cells occurs during the first trimester is lacking. Thus, our view is that during the crucial period when the placenta is established, damaging T cell-mediated adaptive immune responses towards placental trophoblast are minimized, whereas NK cell allorecognition contributes to successful implantation and healthy pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Moffett
- grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Norman Shreeve
- grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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17
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Wolf KG, Crawford EB, Wartan NM, Schneiderman SK, Riehl VE, Dambaeva SV, Beaman KD. Ephrin-B2-expressing natural killer cells induce angiogenesis. JVS Vasc Sci 2022; 3:336-344. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvssci.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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18
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Sparano C, Solís-Sayago D, Vijaykumar A, Rickenbach C, Vermeer M, Ingelfinger F, Litscher G, Fonseca A, Mussak C, Mayoux M, Friedrich C, Nombela-Arrieta C, Gasteiger G, Becher B, Tugues S. Embryonic and neonatal waves generate distinct populations of hepatic ILC1s. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eabo6641. [PMID: 36054340 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abo6641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Group 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) comprising circulating natural killer (cNK) cells and tissue-resident ILC1s are critical for host defense against pathogens and tumors. Despite a growing understanding of their role in homeostasis and disease, the ontogeny of group 1 ILCs remains largely unknown. Here, we used fate mapping and single-cell transcriptomics to comprehensively investigate the origin and turnover of murine group 1 ILCs. Whereas cNK cells are continuously replaced throughout life, we uncovered tissue-dependent development and turnover of ILC1s. A first wave of ILC1s emerges during embryogenesis in the liver and transiently colonizes fetal tissues. After birth, a second wave quickly replaces ILC1s in most tissues apart from the liver, where they layer with embryonic ILC1s, persist until adulthood, and undergo a specific developmental program. Whereas embryonically derived ILC1s give rise to a cytotoxic subset, the neonatal wave establishes the full spectrum of ILC1s. Our findings uncover key ontogenic features of murine group 1 ILCs and their association with cellular identities and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Sparano
- Innate Lymphoid Cells and Cancer, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Darío Solís-Sayago
- Innate Lymphoid Cells and Cancer, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anjali Vijaykumar
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Rickenbach
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marijne Vermeer
- Innate Lymphoid Cells and Cancer, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Florian Ingelfinger
- Inflammation Research, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gioana Litscher
- Innate Lymphoid Cells and Cancer, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - André Fonseca
- Innate Lymphoid Cells and Cancer, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Mussak
- Innate Lymphoid Cells and Cancer, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maud Mayoux
- Innate Lymphoid Cells and Cancer, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christin Friedrich
- Würzburg Institute of Systems Immunology, Max Planck Research Group, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - César Nombela-Arrieta
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Georg Gasteiger
- Würzburg Institute of Systems Immunology, Max Planck Research Group, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Burkhard Becher
- Inflammation Research, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sonia Tugues
- Innate Lymphoid Cells and Cancer, Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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19
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Favaro RR, Phillips K, Delaunay-Danguy R, Ujčič K, Markert UR. Emerging Concepts in Innate Lymphoid Cells, Memory, and Reproduction. Front Immunol 2022; 13:824263. [PMID: 35774779 PMCID: PMC9237338 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.824263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the innate immune system, innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), encompass five major populations (Natural Killer (NK) cells, ILC1s, ILC2s, ILC3s, and lymphoid tissue inducer cells) whose functions include defense against pathogens, surveillance of tumorigenesis, and regulation of tissue homeostasis and remodeling. ILCs are present in the uterine environment of humans and mice and are dynamically regulated during the reproductive cycle and pregnancy. These cells have been repurposed to support pregnancy promoting maternal immune tolerance and placental development. To accomplish their tasks, immune cells employ several cellular and molecular mechanisms. They have the capacity to remember a previously encountered antigen and mount a more effective response to succeeding events. Memory responses are not an exclusive feature of the adaptive immune system, but also occur in innate immune cells. Innate immune memory has already been demonstrated in monocytes/macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, and ILCs. A population of decidual NK cells characterized by elevated expression of NKG2C and LILRB1 as well as a distinctive transcriptional and epigenetic profile was found to expand during subsequent pregnancies in humans. These cells secrete high amounts of interferon-γ and vascular endothelial growth factor likely favoring placentation. Similarly, uterine ILC1s in mice upregulate CXCR6 and expand in second pregnancies. These data provide evidence on the development of immunological memory of pregnancy. In this article, the characteristics, functions, and localization of ILCs are reviewed, emphasizing available data on the uterine environment. Following, the concept of innate immune memory and its mechanisms, which include epigenetic changes and metabolic rewiring, are presented. Finally, the emerging role of innate immune memory on reproduction is discussed. Advances in the comprehension of ILC functions and innate immune memory may contribute to uncovering the immunological mechanisms underlying female fertility/infertility, placental development, and distinct outcomes in second pregnancies related to higher birth weight and lower incidence of complications.
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20
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Reproductive immune microenvironment. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 152:103654. [PMID: 35728349 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
About 10 %-12 % of couples in the world suffer from infertility, and immunological factors are being paid more and more attention. Attempts to induce peripheral immune tolerance in pregnant women by injecting husband cells have been widely promoted, but ultimately proved unsuccessful. Over the past two decades, our understanding of how the immune system is involved in gametogenesis and embryonic development, especially in early pregnancy, has undergone a major shift, going from the periphery to the local area of reproductive tissue. However, a holistic overview of immune responses in reproductive organs and tissues is currently lacking. Here, we further highlight the importance of regional immunity research for understanding reproductive health by reviewing the research mileage of the testis, ovary, and uterine immune microenvironment. We propose the concept of "reproductive immune microenvironment (RIM)" by summarizing the common features and basic functions of the tissue microenvironment in which immune cells reside, including the interstitial space of the testis, the ovarian stroma and the endometrium. The establishment of the concept of RIM not only focuses on the comprehensive description of the immune response in reproductive tissues, but also provides a macroscopic perspective for a deeper understanding of the immune etiology of reproductive system-related diseases.
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21
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Immunological microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 151:103632. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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22
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Xu X, Zhou Y, Fu B, Wei H. Uterine NK cell functions at maternal-fetal interface. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:327-338. [PMID: 35551350 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, maternal decidual tissue interacts with fetal trophoblasts. They constitute the maternal-fetal interface responsible for supplying nutrition to the fetus. Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells are the most abundant immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface during early pregnancy and play critical roles throughout pregnancy. This review provides current knowledge about the functions of uNK cells. uNK cells have been shown to facilitate remodeling of the spiral artery, control the invasion of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells, contribute to the induction and maintenance of immune tolerance, protect against pathogen infection, and promote fetal development. Pregnancy-trained memory of uNK cells improves subsequent pregnancy outcomes. In addition, this review describes the distinct functions of three uNK cell subsets: CD27-CD11b-, CD27+ and CD27-CD11b+ uNK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Xu
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Yonggang Zhou
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Binqing Fu
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
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23
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Gershater M, Romero R, Arenas-Hernandez M, Galaz J, Motomura K, Tao L, Xu Y, Miller D, Pique-Regi R, Martinez G, Liu Y, Jung E, Para R, Gomez-Lopez N. IL-22 Plays a Dual Role in the Amniotic Cavity: Tissue Injury and Host Defense against Microbes in Preterm Labor. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 208:1595-1615. [PMID: 35304419 PMCID: PMC8976826 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
IL-22 is a multifaceted cytokine with both pro- and anti-inflammatory functions that is implicated in multiple pathologies. However, the role of IL-22 in maternal-fetal immunity in late gestation is poorly understood. In this study, we first showed that IL-22+ T cells coexpressing retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γt (ROR-γt) are enriched at the human maternal-fetal interface of women with preterm labor and birth, which was confirmed by in silico analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data. T cell activation leading to preterm birth in mice was preceded by a surge in IL-22 in the maternal circulation and amniotic cavity; however, systemic administration of IL-22 in mice did not induce adverse perinatal outcomes. Next, using an ex vivo human system, we showed that IL-22 can cross from the choriodecidua to the intra-amniotic space, where its receptors (Il22ra1, Il10rb, and Il22ra2) are highly expressed by murine gestational and fetal tissues in late pregnancy. Importantly, amniotic fluid concentrations of IL-22 were elevated in women with sterile or microbial intra-amniotic inflammation, suggesting a dual role for this cytokine. The intra-amniotic administration of IL-22 alone shortened gestation and caused neonatal death in mice, with the latter outcome involving lung maturation and inflammation. IL-22 plays a role in host response by participating in the intra-amniotic inflammatory milieu preceding Ureaplasma parvum-induced preterm birth in mice, which was rescued by the deficiency of IL-22. Collectively, these data show that IL-22 alone is capable of causing fetal injury leading to neonatal death and can participate in host defense against microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity leading to preterm labor and birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meyer Gershater
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
- Center for Molecular Obstetrics and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
- Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI; and
| | - Marcia Arenas-Hernandez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Jose Galaz
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Kenichiro Motomura
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Li Tao
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Yi Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Derek Miller
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Roger Pique-Regi
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
- Center for Molecular Obstetrics and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Gregorio Martinez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Yesong Liu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Eunjung Jung
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Robert Para
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
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24
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Li DD, Ji WH, Wei DP, Gu AQ, Song ZH, Fang WN, Meng CY, Yang Y, Peng JP. Cytochrome P450 26A1 regulates the clusters and killing activity of NK cells during the peri-implantation period. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:2438-2450. [PMID: 35297206 PMCID: PMC8995454 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 26A1 (CYP26A1) plays a vital role in early pregnancy in mice. Our previous studies have found that CYP26A1 affects embryo implantation by modulating natural killer (NK) cells, and that there is a novel population of CYP26A1+ NK cells in the uteri of pregnant mice. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CYP26A1 on the subsets and killing activity of NK cells. Through single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we identified four NK cell subsets in the uterus, namely, conventional NK (cNK), tissue-resident NK (trNK) 1 and 2, and proliferating trNK (trNKp). The two most variable subpopulations after uterine knockdown of CYP26A1 were trNKp and trNK2 cells. CYP26A1 knockdown significantly downregulated the expression of the NK cell function-related genes Cd44, Cd160, Vegfc, and Slamf6 in trNK2 cells, and Klra17 and Ogn in trNKp cells. Both RNA-seq and cytotoxicity assays confirmed that CYP26A1+ NK cells had low cytotoxicity. These results indicate that CYP26A1 may affect the immune microenvironment at the maternal-foetal interface by regulating the activity of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Dan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wen-Heng Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dan-Ping Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ai-Qin Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Hui Song
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wen-Ning Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao-Yang Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Pian Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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25
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Sun J, Sun J. How neuroactive factors mediates immune responses during pregnancy: An interdisciplinary view. Neuropeptides 2022; 91:102213. [PMID: 34839164 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy, from insemination to parturition, is a highly complex but well-orchestrated process that requires various organs and systems to participate. Immune system and neuroendocrine system are important regulators in healthy pregnancy. Dozens of neuroactive factors have been detected in human placenta, whether they are locally secreted or circulated. Among them, some are vividly studied such as corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), progesterone and estrogens, while others are relatively lack of research. Though the neuroendocrine-immune interactions are demonstrated in some diseases for decades, the roles of neuroactive factors in immune system and lymphocytes during pregnancy are not fully elucidated. This review aims to provide an interdisciplinary view on how the neuroendocrine system mediate immune system during pregnancy process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Sun
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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26
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Tissue-resident immunity in the female and male reproductive tract. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:785-799. [PMID: 35488095 PMCID: PMC9053558 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00934-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The conception of how the immune system is organized has been significantly challenged over the last years. It became evident that not all lymphocytes are mobile and recirculate through secondary lymphoid organs. Instead, subsets of immune cells continuously reside in tissues until being reactivated, e.g., by a recurring pathogen or other stimuli. Consequently, the concept of tissue-resident immunity has emerged, and substantial evidence is now available to support its pivotal function in maintaining tissue homeostasis, sensing challenges and providing antimicrobial protection. Surprisingly, insights on tissue-resident immunity in the barrier tissues of the female reproductive tract are sparse and only slowly emerging. The need for protection from vaginal and amniotic infections, the uniqueness of periodic tissue shedding and renewal of the endometrial barrier tissue, and the demand for a tailored decidual immune adaptation during pregnancy highlight that tissue-resident immunity may play a crucial role in distinct compartments of the female reproductive tract. This review accentuates the characteristics of tissue-resident immune cells in the vagina, endometrium, and the decidua during pregnancy and discusses their functional role in modulating the risk for infertility, pregnancy complications, infections, or cancer. We here also review data published to date on tissue-resident immunity in the male reproductive organs, which is still a largely uncharted territory.
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27
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Depierreux DM, Kieckbusch J, Shreeve N, Hawkes DA, Marsh B, Blelloch R, Sharkey A, Colucci F. Beyond Maternal Tolerance: Education of Uterine Natural Killer Cells by Maternal MHC Drives Fetal Growth. Front Immunol 2022; 13:808227. [PMID: 35619712 PMCID: PMC9127083 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.808227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive immunology has moved on from the classical Medawar question of 60 years ago "why doesn't the mother reject the fetus?". Looking beyond fetal-maternal tolerance, modern reproductive immunology focuses on how the maternal immune system supports fetal growth. Maternal uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, in partnership with fetal trophoblast cells, regulate physiological vascular changes in the uterus of pregnant women and mice. These vascular changes are necessary to build the placenta and sustain fetal growth. NK cell functions in the uterus and elsewhere, including anti-viral and anti-tumour immunity mediated mostly by blood NK cells, are modulated by NK cell education, a quantifiable process that determines cellular activation thresholds. This process relies largely on interactions between self-MHC class I molecules and inhibitory NK cell receptors. By getting to know self, the maternal immune system sets up uNK cells to participate to tissue homeostasis in the womb. Placentation can be viewed as a form of natural transplantation unique in vertebrates and this raises the question of how uNK cell education or missing-self recognition affect their function and, ultimately fetal growth. Here, using combinations of MHC-sufficient and -deficient mice, we show that uNK cell education is linked to maternal and not fetal MHC, so that MHC-deficient dams produce more growth-restricted fetuses, even when the fetuses themselves express self-MHC. We also show that, while peripheral NK cells reject bone marrow cells according to the established rules of missing-self recognition, uNK cells educated by maternal MHC do not reject fetuses that miss self-MHC and these fetuses grow to their full potential. While these results are not directly applicable to clinical research, they show that NK education by maternal MHC-I is required for optimal fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine M Depierreux
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jens Kieckbusch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Norman Shreeve
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Delia A Hawkes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Bryan Marsh
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Robert Blelloch
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Andrew Sharkey
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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28
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The Reaction of Innate Lymphoid Cells in the Mouse Female Genital Tract to Chlamydial Infection. Infect Immun 2021; 89:e0080020. [PMID: 34424753 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00800-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) comprise five distinct subsets. ILCs are found at mucosal barriers and may fight invading pathogens. Chlamydia is an intracellular bacterium that infects the mucosa of the genital tract and can cause severe tissue damage. Here, we used a mouse infection model with Chlamydia muridarum to measure the reaction of genital tract ILCs to the infection. Tissue-resident natural killer (NK) cells were the largest group in the uninfected female genital tract, and their number did not substantially change. Conventional NK cells were present in the greatest numbers during acute infection, while ILC1s continuously increased to high numbers. ILC2 and ILC3s were found at lower numbers that oscillated by a factor of 2 to 4. The majority of ILC3s transdifferentiated into ILC1s. NK cells and ILC1s produced gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and, rarely, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), but only early in the infection. Lack of B and T cells increased ILC numbers, while the loss of myeloid cells decreased them. ILCs accumulated to a high density in the oviduct, a main site of tissue destruction. ILC subsets are part of the inflammatory and immune reaction during infection with C. muridarum and may contribute to tissue damage during chlamydial infection.
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29
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Biology and pathology of the uterine microenvironment and its natural killer cells. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:2101-2113. [PMID: 34426671 PMCID: PMC8429689 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00739-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissues are the new frontier of discoveries in immunology. Cells of the immune system are an integral part of tissue physiology and immunity. Determining how immune cells inhabit, housekeep, and defend gut, lung, brain, liver, uterus, and other organs helps revealing the intimate details of tissue physiology and may offer new therapeutic targets to treat pathologies. The uterine microenvironment modulates the development and function of innate lymphoid cells [ILC, largely represented by natural killer (NK) cells], macrophages, T cells, and dendritic cells. These immune cells, in turn, contribute to tissue homeostasis. Regulated by ovarian hormones, the human uterine mucosa (endometrium) undergoes ~400 monthly cycles of breakdown and regeneration from menarche to menopause, with its fibroblasts, glands, blood vessels, and immune cells remodeling the tissue into the transient decidua. Even more transformative changes occur upon blastocyst implantation. Before the placenta is formed, the endometrial glands feed the embryo by histiotrophic nutrition while the uterine spiral arteries are stripped of their endothelial layer and smooth muscle actin. This arterial remodeling is carried out by invading fetal trophoblast and maternal immune cells, chiefly uterine NK (uNK) cells, which also assist fetal growth. The transformed arteries no longer respond to maternal stimuli and meet the increasing demands of the growing fetus. This review focuses on how the everchanging uterine microenvironment affects uNK cells and how uNK cells regulate homeostasis of the decidua, placenta development, and fetal growth. Determining these pathways will help understand the causes of major pregnancy complications.
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30
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Shmeleva EV, Colucci F. Maternal natural killer cells at the intersection between reproduction and mucosal immunity. Mucosal Immunol 2021; 14:991-1005. [PMID: 33903735 PMCID: PMC8071844 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-00374-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Many maternal immune cells populate the decidua, which is the mucosal lining of the uterus transformed during pregnancy. Here, abundant natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages help the uterine vasculature adapt to fetal demands for gas and nutrients, thereby supporting fetal growth. Fetal trophoblast cells budding off the forming placenta and invading deep into maternal tissues come into contact with these and other immune cells. Besides their homeostatic functions, decidual NK cells can respond to pathogens during infection, but in doing so, they may become conflicted between destroying the invader and sustaining fetoplacental growth. We review how maternal NK cells balance their double duty both in the local microenvironment of the uterus and systemically, during toxoplasmosis, influenza, cytomegalovirus, malaria and other infections that threat pregnancy. We also discuss recent developments in the understanding of NK-cell responses to SARS-Cov-2 infection and the possible dangers of COVID-19 during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeniya V Shmeleva
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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31
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Gregory EJ, Liu J, Miller-Handley H, Kinder JM, Way SS. Epidemiology of Pregnancy Complications Through the Lens of Immunological Memory. Front Immunol 2021; 12:693189. [PMID: 34248991 PMCID: PMC8267465 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.693189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the fifteen minutes it takes to read this short commentary, more than 400 babies will have been born too early, another 300 expecting mothers will develop preeclampsia, and 75 unborn third trimester fetuses will have died in utero (stillbirth). Given the lack of meaningful progress in understanding the physiological changes that occur to allow a healthy, full term pregnancy, it is perhaps not surprising that effective therapies against these great obstetrical syndromes that include prematurity, preeclampsia, and stillbirth remain elusive. Meanwhile, pregnancy complications remain the leading cause of infant and childhood mortality under age five. Does it have to be this way? What more can we collectively, as a biomedical community, or individually, as clinicians who care for women and newborn babies at high risk for pregnancy complications, do to protect individuals in these extremely vulnerable developmental windows? The problem of pregnancy complications and neonatal mortality is extraordinarily complex, with multiple unique, but complementary perspectives from scientific, epidemiological and public health viewpoints. Herein, we discuss the epidemiology of pregnancy complications, focusing on how the outcome of prior pregnancy impacts the risk of complication in the next pregnancy — and how the fundamental immunological principle of memory may promote this adaptive response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Gregory
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - James Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Hilary Miller-Handley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Jeremy M Kinder
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Sing Sing Way
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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32
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Sportoletti P, De Falco F, Del Papa B, Baldoni S, Guarente V, Marra A, Dorillo E, Rompietti C, Adamo FM, Ruggeri L, Di Ianni M, Rosati E. NK Cells in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Their Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136665. [PMID: 34206399 PMCID: PMC8268440 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Key features of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are defects in the immune system and the ability of leukemic cells to evade immune defenses and induce immunosuppression, resulting in increased susceptibility to infections and disease progression. Several immune effectors are impaired in CLL, including T and natural killer (NK) cells. The role of T cells in defense against CLL and in CLL progression and immunotherapy has been extensively studied. Less is known about the role of NK cells in this leukemia, and data on NK cell alterations in CLL are contrasting. Besides studies showing that NK cells have intrinsic defects in CLL, there is a large body of evidence indicating that NK cell dysfunctions in CLL mainly depend on the escape mechanisms employed by leukemic cells. In keeping, it has been shown that NK cell functions, including antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), can be retained and/or restored after adequate stimulation. Therefore, due to their preserved ADCC function and the reversibility of CLL-related dysfunctions, NK cells are an attractive source for novel immunotherapeutic strategies in this disease, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) therapy. Recently, satisfying clinical responses have been obtained in CLL patients using cord blood-derived CAR-NK cells, opening new possibilities for further exploring NK cells in the immunotherapy of CLL. However, notwithstanding the promising results of this clinical trial, more evidence is needed to fully understand whether and in which CLL cases NK cell-based immunotherapy may represent a valid, alternative/additional therapeutic option for this leukemia. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge about phenotypic and functional alterations of NK cells in CLL and the mechanisms by which CLL cells circumvent NK cell-mediated immunosurveillance. Additionally, we discuss the potential relevance of using NK cells in CLL immunotherapy.
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MESH Headings
- Biomarkers
- Cell Communication
- Disease Management
- Disease Susceptibility
- Humans
- Immune System/immunology
- Immune System/metabolism
- Immunotherapy/adverse effects
- Immunotherapy/methods
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/diagnosis
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/etiology
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/metabolism
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/therapy
- Ligands
- Protein Binding
- Receptors, Natural Killer Cell/genetics
- Receptors, Natural Killer Cell/metabolism
- Treatment Outcome
- Tumor Escape/genetics
- Tumor Escape/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Sportoletti
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Filomena De Falco
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Beatrice Del Papa
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Stefano Baldoni
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Valerio Guarente
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Andrea Marra
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Erica Dorillo
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Chiara Rompietti
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Francesco Maria Adamo
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Loredana Ruggeri
- Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (P.S.); (F.D.F.); (B.D.P.); (S.B.); (V.G.); (A.M.); (E.D.); (C.R.); (F.M.A.); (L.R.)
| | - Mauro Di Ianni
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Ospedale Civile “Santo Spirito”, ASL Pescara, 65124 Pescara, Italy
| | - Emanuela Rosati
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence:
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33
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Huhn O, Zhao X, Esposito L, Moffett A, Colucci F, Sharkey AM. How Do Uterine Natural Killer and Innate Lymphoid Cells Contribute to Successful Pregnancy? Front Immunol 2021; 12:607669. [PMID: 34234770 PMCID: PMC8256162 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.607669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are the most abundant immune cells in the uterine mucosa both before and during pregnancy. Circumstantial evidence suggests they play important roles in regulating placental development but exactly how they contribute to the successful outcome of pregnancy is still unclear. Uterine ILCs (uILCs) include subsets of tissue-resident natural killer (NK) cells and ILCs, and until recently the phenotype and functions of uILCs were poorly defined. Determining the specific roles of each subset is intrinsically challenging because of the rapidly changing nature of the tissue both during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and high dimensional flow and mass cytometry approaches have recently been used to analyse uILC populations in the uterus in both humans and mice. This detailed characterisation has significantly changed our understanding of the heterogeneity within the uILC compartment. It will also enable key clinical questions to be addressed including whether specific uILC subsets are altered in infertility, miscarriage and pregnancy disorders such as foetal growth restriction and pre-eclampsia. Here, we summarise recent advances in our understanding of the phenotypic and functional diversity of uILCs in non-pregnant endometrium and first trimester decidua, and review how these cells may contribute to successful placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oisín Huhn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Xiaohui Zhao
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Esposito
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew M. Sharkey
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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McFarland AP, Yalin A, Wang SY, Cortez VS, Landsberger T, Sudan R, Peng V, Miller HL, Ricci B, David E, Faccio R, Amit I, Colonna M. Multi-tissue single-cell analysis deconstructs the complex programs of mouse natural killer and type 1 innate lymphoid cells in tissues and circulation. Immunity 2021; 54:1320-1337.e4. [PMID: 33945787 PMCID: PMC8312473 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells and type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s) are heterogenous innate lymphocytes broadly defined in mice as Lin-NK1.1+NKp46+ cells that express the transcription factor T-BET and produce interferon-γ. The ILC1 definition primarily stems from studies on liver and small intestinal populations. However, NK1.1+NKp46+ cells in the salivary glands, uterus, adipose, and other tissues exhibit nonuniform programs that differ from those of liver or intestinal ILC1s or NK cells. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing on murine NK1.1+NKp46+ cells from blood, spleen, various tissues, and solid tumors. We identified gene expression programs of tissue-specific ILC1s, tissue-specific NK cells, and non-tissue-specific populations in blood, spleen, and other tissues largely corresponding to circulating cells. Moreover, we found that circulating NK cell programs were reshaped in tumor-bearing mice. Core programs of circulating and tumor NK cells paralleled conserved human NK cells signatures, advancing our understanding of the human NK-ILC1 spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelle P McFarland
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Adam Yalin
- Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Shuang-Yin Wang
- Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Victor S Cortez
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tomer Landsberger
- Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Raki Sudan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Vincent Peng
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hannah L Miller
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Biancamaria Ricci
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Eyal David
- Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Roberta Faccio
- Department of Orthopedics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Shriners Children's Hospital in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ido Amit
- Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Marco Colonna
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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Feyaerts D, Joosten I, van der Molen RG. A pregnancy to remember: trained immunity of the uterine mucosae. Mucosal Immunol 2021; 14:539-541. [PMID: 33299087 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-00362-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dorien Feyaerts
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory for Medical Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94121, USA
| | - Irma Joosten
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory for Medical Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Renate G van der Molen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory for Medical Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Shreeve N, Depierreux D, Hawkes D, Traherne JA, Sovio U, Huhn O, Jayaraman J, Horowitz A, Ghadially H, Perry JRB, Moffett A, Sled JG, Sharkey AM, Colucci F. The CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptor educates uterine NK cells to optimize pregnancy outcomes in humans and mice. Immunity 2021; 54:1231-1244.e4. [PMID: 33887202 PMCID: PMC8211638 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The conserved CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptor is expressed by nearly all human and ∼50% of mouse uterine natural killer (uNK) cells. Binding human HLA-E and mouse Qa-1, NKG2A drives NK cell education, a process of unknown physiological importance influenced by HLA-B alleles. Here, we show that NKG2A genetic ablation in dams mated with wild-type males caused suboptimal maternal vascular responses in pregnancy, accompanied by perturbed placental gene expression, reduced fetal weight, greater rates of smaller fetuses with asymmetric growth, and abnormal brain development. These are features of the human syndrome pre-eclampsia. In a genome-wide association study of 7,219 pre-eclampsia cases, we found a 7% greater relative risk associated with the maternal HLA-B allele that does not favor NKG2A education. These results show that the maternal HLA-B→HLA-E→NKG2A pathway contributes to healthy pregnancy and may have repercussions on offspring health, thus establishing the physiological relevance for NK cell education. Video Abstract
CD94/NKG2A educates uterine NK cells NKG2A-deficient dams display reduced utero-placental hemodynamic adaptations Asymmetric growth restriction and abnormal brain development in NKG2A-deficient dams Non-functional HLA-B→HLA-E→NKG2A pathway exposes women to greater pre-eclampsia risk
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman Shreeve
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK
| | - Delphine Depierreux
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK
| | - Delia Hawkes
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK
| | | | - Ulla Sovio
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK
| | - Oisin Huhn
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; AstraZeneca, Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GH, UK
| | - Jyothi Jayaraman
- University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neurobiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Amir Horowitz
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Precision Immunology Institute and Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - John R B Perry
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - John G Sled
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrew M Sharkey
- University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK.
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The immune potential of decidua-resident CD16 +CD56 + NK cells in human pregnancy. Hum Immunol 2021; 82:332-339. [PMID: 33583640 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2021.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Human CD56+CD3- NK cells can be subdivided into two different subsets according to the expression pattern of CD56 and CD16. CD56+/brightCD16- (CD16-) NK cells are prominently cytokine producers with little cytotoxicity whereas CD56+/dimCD16+ (CD16+) NK cells are efficient killers with poorer cytokine production potential. In human pregnancy, CD56+ decidual (d)NK cells accumulate in the maternal fetal interface to regulate placental immunity and development. Unlike peripheral blood (pb)NK cells, the majority of dNK cells are CD56 positive with limited CD16 reactivity. Our results demonstrated that in normal and pathological pregnancies, CD16+ dNK cells are a unique population in comparison to CD16- dNK subset. The expression of NK activation receptors CD335, CD336, CD244 and CD314 on CD16+ dNK subpopulation was lower than that on CD16- dNK cells. Upon cytokine stimulation with rhIL-12/15/18 or TGFβ blockade, the CD16+ dNK subset exhibited more robust response on the expression of IFNG, IL-8 and CD107a, compared to that of the CD16- dNK subpopulation. Functions of the CD16+ dNK subset were shown to be independent of cellular interaction with trophoblast cells. Studies of preeclamptic patients revealed lower proportions of CD16+ dNK cells, suggesting potential protective roles of these cells during normal gestations.. Therefore, we suggest that the CD16+ dNK subset, through compensating CD16- dNK cell function, is an indispensable componentto regulate decidual immune response and to support placentation.
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Multidimensional molecular controls defining NK/ILC1 identity in cancers. Semin Immunol 2020; 52:101424. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2020.101424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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García-Peñarrubia P, Ruiz-Alcaraz AJ, Martínez-Esparza M, Marín P, Machado-Linde F. Hypothetical roadmap towards endometriosis: prenatal endocrine-disrupting chemical pollutant exposure, anogenital distance, gut-genital microbiota and subclinical infections. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:214-246. [PMID: 32108227 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a gynaecological hormone-dependent disorder that is defined by histological lesions generated by the growth of endometrial-like tissue out of the uterus cavity, most commonly engrafted within the peritoneal cavity, although these lesions can also be located in distant organs. Endometriosis affects ~10% of women of reproductive age, frequently producing severe and, sometimes, incapacitating symptoms, including chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia, among others. Furthermore, endometriosis causes infertility in ~30% of affected women. Despite intense research on the mechanisms involved in the initial development and later progression of endometriosis, many questions remain unanswered and its aetiology remains unknown. Recent studies have demonstrated the critical role played by the relationship between the microbiome and mucosal immunology in preventing sexually transmitted diseases (HIV), infertility and several gynaecologic diseases. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this review, we sought to respond to the main research question related to the aetiology of endometriosis. We provide a model pointing out several risk factors that could explain the development of endometriosis. The hypothesis arises from bringing together current findings from large distinct areas, linking high prenatal exposure to environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals with a short anogenital distance, female genital tract contamination with the faecal microbiota and the active role of genital subclinical microbial infections in the development and clinical progression of endometriosis. SEARCH METHODS We performed a search of the scientific literature published until 2019 in the PubMed database. The search strategy included the following keywords in various combinations: endometriosis, anogenital distance, chemical pollutants, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, the microbiome of the female reproductive tract, microbiota and genital tract, bacterial vaginosis, endometritis, oestrogens and microbiota and microbiota-immune system interactions. OUTCOMES On searching the corresponding bibliography, we found frequent associations between environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals and endometriosis risk. Likewise, recent evidence and hypotheses have suggested the active role of genital subclinical microbial infections in the development and clinical progression of endometriosis. Hence, we can envisage a direct relationship between higher prenatal exposure to oestrogens or estrogenic endocrine-disrupting compounds (phthalates, bisphenols, organochlorine pesticides and others) and a shorter anogenital distance, which could favour frequent postnatal episodes of faecal microbiota contamination of the vulva and vagina, producing cervicovaginal microbiota dysbiosis. This relationship would disrupt local antimicrobial defences, subverting the homeostasis state and inducing a subclinical inflammatory response that could evolve into a sustained immune dysregulation, closing the vicious cycle responsible for the development of endometriosis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Determining the aetiology of endometriosis is a challenging issue. Posing a new hypothesis on this subject provides the initial tool necessary to design future experimental, clinical and epidemiological research that could allow for a better understanding of the origin of this disease. Furthermore, advances in the understanding of its aetiology would allow the identification of new therapeutics and preventive actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar García-Peñarrubia
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular (B) e Inmunología. Facultad de Medicina, IMIB and Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio J Ruiz-Alcaraz
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular (B) e Inmunología. Facultad de Medicina, IMIB and Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - María Martínez-Esparza
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular (B) e Inmunología. Facultad de Medicina, IMIB and Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Marín
- Servicio de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, IMIB, Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco Machado-Linde
- Servicio de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Hospital Clínico Universitario Reina Sofía, CARM, Murcia, Spain
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40
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Li Y, Lopez GE, Lindner PN, Parrella L, Larson M, Sun Y, Stanic AK. The role of RORγt at maternal-fetal interface during murine pregnancy. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13250. [PMID: 32314428 PMCID: PMC8261794 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs, including NK cells) and their subsets are the most frequent lymphocytes at the maternal-fetal interface (decidua). Recent recognition of extensive ILC subset diversity at mucosal sites and the possible role they might play at different stages of pregnancy poses questions about their composition and lineage stability. Namely, RORγt-dependent ILC3s have been recognized as a key cellular mediator of tissue organization in the gut and secondary lymphoid organs, prompting examination of their distribution and role in decidua during pregnancy. METHOD OF STUDY We employed highly polychromatic flow cytometry with conventional and machine learning-aided analysis to map ILC subsets and dissected the role of canonical transcription factor RORγt using fate-mapping animals and RORγt-/- animals. RESULTS We demonstrate a comprehensive immunome map of ILCs/NKs, revealing a dynamic interface even in the absence of antigenic or allogeneic challenge. Strikingly, we demonstrate plasticity of RORγt expression in decidual ILCs with across gestation. However, gross reproductive efficiency is not affected in RORγt-/- animals. CONCLUSION These results indicated that RORγt+ ILCs are highly plastic at the maternal-fetal interface, but dispensable for normal pregnancy, revealing a novel mechanism of transcriptional immunoregulation in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Gladys E. Lopez
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Payton N. Lindner
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Luke Parrella
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Mariah Larson
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Yan Sun
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Provincial Maternity and Children’s Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University
| | - Aleksandar K. Stanic
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
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Sliz A, Locker KCS, Lampe K, Godarova A, Plas DR, Janssen EM, Jones H, Herr AB, Hoebe K. Gab3 is required for IL-2- and IL-15-induced NK cell expansion and limits trophoblast invasion during pregnancy. Sci Immunol 2020; 4:4/38/eaav3866. [PMID: 31375526 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.aav3866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The scaffolding protein Grb2-associated binding protein 3 (Gab3) is a member of the Gab family, whose functions have remained elusive. Here, we identify Gab3 as a key determinant of peripheral NK cell expansion. Loss of Gab3 resulted in impaired IL-2 and IL-15-induced NK cell priming and expansion due to a selective impairment in MAPK signaling but not STAT5 signaling. In vivo, we found that Gab3 is required for recognition and elimination of "missing-self" and tumor targets. Unexpectedly, our studies also revealed that Gab3 plays an important role during pregnancy. Gab3-deficient mice exhibited impaired uterine NK cell expansion associated with abnormal spiral artery remodeling and increased trophoblast invasion in the decidua basalis. This coincided with stillbirth, retained placenta, maternal hemorrhage, and undelivered fetoplacental units at term. Thus, Gab3 is a key component required for cytokine-mediated NK cell priming and expansion that is essential for antitumor responses and limits trophoblast cell invasion during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sliz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Kathryn C S Locker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Kristin Lampe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Alzbeta Godarova
- Biomedical Informatics Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - David R Plas
- Vontz Center for Molecular Studies, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | | | - Helen Jones
- Division of General Pediatric and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Andrew B Herr
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
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Cappelletti M, Presicce P, Kallapur SG. Immunobiology of Acute Chorioamnionitis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:649. [PMID: 32373122 PMCID: PMC7177011 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute chorioamnionitis is characterized by neutrophilic infiltration and inflammation at the maternal fetal interface. It is a relatively common complication of pregnancy and can have devastating consequences including preterm labor, maternal infections, fetal infection/inflammation, fetal lung, brain, and gastrointestinal tract injury. In this review, we will discuss current understanding of the pathogenesis, immunobiology, and mechanisms of this condition. Most commonly, acute chorioamnionitis is a result of ascending infection with relatively low-virulence organisms such as the Ureaplasma species. Furthermore, recent vaginal microbiome studies suggest that there is a link between vaginal dysbiosis, vaginal inflammation, and ascending infection. Although less common, microorganisms invading the maternal-fetal interface via hematogenous route (e.g., Zika virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Listeria) can cause placental villitis and severe fetal inflammation and injury. We will provide an overview of the knowledge gleaned from different animal models of acute chorioamnionitis and the role of different immune cells in different maternal-fetal compartments. Lastly, we will discuss how infectious agents can break the maternal tolerance of fetal allograft during pregnancy and highlight the novel future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Cappelletti
- Divisions of Neonatology and Developmental Biology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Pietro Presicce
- Divisions of Neonatology and Developmental Biology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Suhas G Kallapur
- Divisions of Neonatology and Developmental Biology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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43
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Molecular characteristics and possible functions of innate lymphoid cells in the uterus and gut. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2020; 52:15-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Colucci F. Placentation and antitumor immunity regulated by a scaffolding protein in NK cells. Sci Immunol 2020; 4:4/38/eaax9589. [PMID: 31375527 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.aax9589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer cells use the Gab3 adaptor protein to limit trophoblast invasion during pregnancy and to reject tumor cells. See the related Research Article by Sliz et al.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine and Centre for Trophoblast Research, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK.
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45
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine and Centre for Trophoblast Research. National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK.
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46
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Valero-Pacheco N, Beaulieu AM. Transcriptional Regulation of Mouse Tissue-Resident Natural Killer Cell Development. Front Immunol 2020; 11:309. [PMID: 32161593 PMCID: PMC7052387 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic innate lymphocytes that are well-known for their ability to kill infected or malignant cells. Beyond their roles in tumor surveillance and anti-pathogen defense, more recent studies have highlighted key roles for NK cells in a broad range of biological processes, including metabolic homeostasis, immunomodulation of T cells, contact hypersensitivity, and pregnancy. Consistent with the breadth and diversity of these functions, it is now appreciated that NK cells are a heterogeneous population, comprised of specialized and sometimes tissue-specific subsets with distinct phenotypes and effector functions. Indeed, in addition to the conventional NK cells (cNKs) that are abundant and have been well-studied in the blood and spleen, distinct subsets of tissue-resident NK cells (trNKs) and "helper" Group 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s) have now been described in multiple organs and tissues, including the liver, uterus, thymus, adipose tissue, and skin, among others. The cNK, trNK, and/or helper ILC1 populations that co-exist in these various tissues exhibit both common and distinct developmental requirements, suggesting that a combination of lineage-, subset-, and tissue-specific differentiation processes may contribute to the unique functional properties of these various populations. Here, we provide an overview of the transcriptional regulatory pathways known to instruct the development and differentiation of cNK, trNK, and helper ILC1 populations in specific tissues in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuriban Valero-Pacheco
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers – The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers – The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Aimee M. Beaulieu
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers – The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers – The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
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47
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Sojka DK. Uterine Natural Killer Cell Heterogeneity: Lessons From Mouse Models. Front Immunol 2020; 11:290. [PMID: 32153593 PMCID: PMC7046796 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are the most abundant lymphocytes at the maternal-fetal interface. Epidemiological data implicate NK cells in human pregnancy outcomes. Discoveries using mouse NK cells have guided subsequent advances in human NK cell biology. However, it remains challenging to identify mouse and human uterine NK (uNK) cell function(s) because of the dynamic changes in the systemic-endocrinological and local uterine structural microenvironments during pregnancy. This review discusses functional similarities and differences between mouse and human NK cells at the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy K Sojka
- Rheumatology Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Pelosi A, Alicata C, Tumino N, Ingegnere T, Loiacono F, Mingari MC, Moretta L, Vacca P. An Anti-inflammatory microRNA Signature Distinguishes Group 3 Innate Lymphoid Cells From Natural Killer Cells in Human Decidua. Front Immunol 2020; 11:133. [PMID: 32117280 PMCID: PMC7015979 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a heterogeneous subset of lymphocytes deeply implicated in the innate immune responses to different pathogens, in lymphoid organogenesis and in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3) have been detected in human decidua, where they play a role in the early inflammatory phase favoring implantation and tissue remodeling as well as in the subsequent regulatory phase preventing fetal rejection and supporting neoangiogenesis. A balance between inflammation and immune tolerance is required to maintain pregnancy, thus maternal immune system must be controlled by finely tuned mechanisms. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs with important regulatory roles in immune cells, but their function in decidual ILC3 (dILC3) and in decidual NK (dNK) cells is still undefined. Here, we examined the miRNome by microarray in these cells during the first trimester of pregnancy and compared with miRNA profiles of peripheral blood NK (pbNK) cells from pregnant women. We show that distinct miRNA profiles could clearly distinguish dILC3 from NK cells. Correlation analyses revealed that dNK and pbNK miRNome profiles are more similar to each other as compared to dILC3. In particular, we identified 302 and 279 mature miRNAs differentially expressed in dILC3 as compared to dNK and pbNK, respectively. The expression of miR-574-3p and the miR-99b/let-7e/miR-125a miRNA cluster resulted the most increased in dILC3. Remarkably, gene ontology analysis and pathway enrichments of miRNA targets revealed an involvement of these miRNAs in the promotion of anti-inflammatory responses. In agreement to this finding, we also found a higher expression of the anti-inflammatory miR-146a-5p in dILC3 with respect to NK cells. Overall, our data identified specific miRNA signatures distinguishing dILC3, dNK, and pbNK cells. Our data suggest the existence of a tight epigenetic control mediated by miRNAs in dILC3, potentially acting as a brake to prevent exaggerated inflammatory responses and to maintain the immune homeostasis in the early phases of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pelosi
- Immunology Research Area, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Alicata
- Immunology Research Area, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Tumino
- Immunology Research Area, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziano Ingegnere
- Immunology Research Area, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Loiacono
- Immunology Operative Unit, Department of Integrated Oncological Therapies, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Mingari
- Immunology Operative Unit, Department of Integrated Oncological Therapies, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino Hospital, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Immunology Research Area, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Vacca
- Immunology Research Area, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Colucci F. Sharing Knowledge With Young and Established Students of Immunology by the Neapolitan Gulf at the Ruggero Ceppellini Advanced School. Front Immunol 2020; 11:43. [PMID: 32047501 PMCID: PMC6997529 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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50
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Song B, Lee JM, Park YJ, Kim IK, Kim BS, Shin KS, Jeon I, Koh CH, Bae EA, Seo H, Byun Y, Kang CY. Differentiation of c-Kit + CD24 + natural killer cells into myeloid cells in a GATA-2-dependent manner. FASEB J 2020; 34:4462-4481. [PMID: 31989715 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902662r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid progenitor cells have generally been considered the predominant source of myeloid cells under steady-state conditions. Here we show that NK cells contributed to a myeloid cell lineage pool in naïve and tumor-bearing mice. Using fate tracing of NKp46+ cells, we found that myeloid cells could be derived from NK cells. Notably, among mature CD11b+ CD27+ NK cells, c-Kit+ CD24+ NK cells were capable of differentiating into a range of myeloid lineages in vitro and produced neutrophils and monocytes in vivo. The differentiation was completely inhibited by NK-stimulating cytokines. In addition to the potential for differentiation into myeloid cells, c-Kit+ CD24+ NK cells retained NK cell phenotypes and effector functions. Mechanistically, GATA-2 was necessary for the differentiation of c-Kit+ CD24+ NK cells. Therefore, we discovered that GATA-2-dependent differentiation of c-Kit+ CD24+ NK cells contributes to myeloid cell development and identified a novel pathway for myeloid lineage commitment under physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyeong Song
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Mi Lee
- Laboratory of Immunology, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Jun Park
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Kyu Kim
- Laboratory of Immunology, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Seok Kim
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Soo Shin
- Laboratory of Immunology, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Insu Jeon
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong-Hyun Koh
- Laboratory of Immunology, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Ah Bae
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyungseok Seo
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Laboratory of Immunology, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngro Byun
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Yuil Kang
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Laboratory of Immunology, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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