Cholesterol metabolism drives regulatory B cell IL-10 through provision of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate

Lipid metabolism in B cell biology

In recent years, the field of immunometabolism has solidified its position as a prominent area of investigation within the realm of immunological research. An expanding body of scientific literature has unveiled the intricate interplay between energy homeostasis, signalling molecules, and metabolites in relation to fundamental aspects of our immune cells. It is now widely accepted that disruptions in metabolic equilibrium can give rise to a myriad of pathological conditions, ranging from autoimmune disorders to cancer. Emerging evidence, although sometimes fragmented and anecdotal, has highlighted the indispensable role of lipids in modulating the behaviour of immune cells, including B cells. In light of these findings, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding lipid metabolism in the context of B cell biology.

Cholesterol metabolism in tumor microenvironment: cancer hallmarks and therapeutic opportunities

Cholesterol is crucial for cell survival and growth, and dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis has been linked to the development of cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) facilitates tumor cell survival and growth, and crosstalk between cholesterol metabolism and the TME contributes to tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Targeting cholesterol metabolism has demonstrated significant antitumor effects in preclinical and clinical studies. In this review, we discuss the regulatory mechanisms of cholesterol homeostasis and the impact of its dysregulation on the hallmarks of cancer. We also describe how cholesterol metabolism reprograms the TME across seven specialized microenvironments. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of targeting cholesterol metabolism as a therapeutic strategy for tumors. This approach not only exerts antitumor effects in monotherapy and combination therapy but also mitigates the adverse effects associated with conventional tumor therapy. Finally, we outline the unresolved questions and suggest potential avenues for future investigations on cholesterol metabolism in relation to cancer.

Farnesyltransferase-inhibitors exert in vitro immunosuppressive capacity by inhibiting human B-cells

Objectives

Farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTI), which inhibit the prenylation of Ras GTPases, were developed as anti-cancer drugs. As additional target proteins for prenylation were identified in the past, it is likely that FTI have potential value for therapeutic purposes beyond cancer. The effect of FTI on B-cells remains unclear. To address this issue, we investigated the effects of in vitro FTI treatment on effector and regulatory B-cells in healthy controls and renal transplant patients.

Methods

For this purpose, B-cells were isolated from the peripheral blood of healthy controls and renal transplant patients. Purified B-cells were stimulated via Toll-like-receptor 9 (TLR-9) in the presence or absence of FTI. Regulatory functions, such as IL-10 and Granzyme B (GrB) secretion, were assessed by flow cytometry. In addition, effector B-cell functions, such as plasma cell formation and IgG secretion, were studied.

Results

The two FTI Lonafarnib and tipifarnib both suppressed TLR-9-induced B-cell proliferation. Maturation of IL-10 producing B-cells was suppressed by FTI at high concentrations as well as induction of GrB-secreting B-cells. Plasma blast formation and IgG secretion were potently suppressed by FTI. Moreover, purified B-cells from immunosuppressed renal transplant patients were also susceptible to FTI-induced suppression of effector functions, evidenced by diminished IgG secretion.

Conclusion

FTI suppress in vitro B-cell proliferation and plasma cell formation while partially preserving IL-10 as well as GrB production of B-cells. Thus, FTI may have immunosuppressive capacity encouraging further studies to investigate the potential immunomodulatory value of this agent.

Molecular Mechanisms Underpinning Immunometabolic Reprogramming: How the Wind Changes during Cancer Progression

Metabolism and the immunological state are intimately intertwined, as defense responses are bioenergetically expensive. Metabolic homeostasis is a key requirement for the proper function of immune cell subsets, and the perturbation of the immune-metabolic balance is a recurrent event in many human diseases, including cancer, due to nutrient fluctuation, hypoxia and additional metabolic changes occurring in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Although much remains to be understood in the field of immunometabolism, here, we report the current knowledge on both physiological and cancer-associated metabolic profiles of immune cells, and the main molecular circuits involved in their regulation, highlighting similarities and differences, and emphasizing immune metabolic liabilities that could be exploited in cancer therapy to overcome immune resistance.

Metal-coding assisted serological multi-omics profiling deciphers the role of selenium in COVID-19 immunity

Uncovering how host metal(loid)s mediate the immune response against invading pathogens is critical for better understanding the pathogenesis mechanism of infectious disease. Clinical data show that imbalance of host metal(loid)s is closely associated with the severity and mortality of COVID-19. However, it remains elusive how metal(loid)s, which are essential elements for all forms of life and closely associated with multiple diseases if dysregulated, are involved in COVID-19 pathophysiology and immunopathology. Herein, we built up a metal-coding assisted multiplexed serological metallome and immunoproteome profiling system to characterize the links of metallome with COVID-19 pathogenesis and immunity. We found distinct metallome features in COVID-19 patients compared with non-infected control subjects, which may serve as a biomarker for disease diagnosis. Moreover, we generated the first correlation network between the host metallome and immunity mediators, and unbiasedly uncovered a strong association of selenium with interleukin-10 (IL-10). Supplementation of selenium to immune cells resulted in enhanced IL-10 expression in B cells and reduced induction of proinflammatory cytokines in B and CD4+ T cells. The selenium-enhanced IL-10 production in B cells was confirmed to be attributable to the activation of ERK and Akt pathways. We further validated our cellular data in SARS-CoV-2-infected K18-hACE2 mice, and found that selenium supplementation alleviated SARS-CoV-2-induced lung damage characterized by decreased alveolar inflammatory infiltrates through restoration of virus-repressed selenoproteins to alleviate oxidative stress. Our approach can be readily extended to other diseases to understand how the host defends against invading pathogens through regulation of metallome.

Lipid metabolism in regulation of B cell development and autoimmunity

B cells play an important role in adaptive immunity and participate in the process of humoral immunity mainly by secreting antibodies. The entire development and differentiation process of B cells occurs in multiple microenvironments and is regulated by a variety of environmental factors and immune signals. Differentiation biases or disfunction of B cells participate in the process of many autoimmune diseases. Emerging studies report the impact of altered metabolism in B cell biology, including lipid metabolism. Here, we discuss how extracellular lipid environment and metabolites, membrane lipid-related components, and lipid synthesis and catabolism programs coordinate B cell biology and describe the crosstalk of lipid metabolic programs with signal transduction pathways and transcription factors. We conclude with a summary of therapeutic targets for B cell lipid metabolism and signaling in autoimmune diseases and discuss important future directions.

The Role of Lipids in the Regulation of Immune Responses

Lipid metabolism plays a major role in the regulation of the immune system. Exogenous (dietary and microbial-derived) and endogenous (non-microbial-derived) lipids play a direct role in regulating immune cell activation, differentiation and expansion, and inflammatory phenotypes. Understanding the complexities of lipid-immune interactions may have important implications for human health, as certain lipids or immune pathways may be beneficial in circumstances of acute infection yet detrimental in chronic inflammatory diseases. Further, there are key differences in the lipid effects between specific immune cell types and location (e.g., gut mucosal vs. systemic immune cells), suggesting that the immunomodulatory properties of lipids may be tissue-compartment-specific, although the direct effect of dietary lipids on the mucosal immune system warrants further investigation. Importantly, there is recent evidence to suggest that lipid-immune interactions are dependent on sex, metabolic status, and the gut microbiome in preclinical models. While the lipid-immune relationship has not been adequately established in/translated to humans, research is warranted to evaluate the differences in lipid-immune interactions across individuals and whether the optimization of lipid-immune interactions requires precision nutrition approaches to mitigate or manage disease. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms by which lipids regulate immune responses and the influence of dietary lipids on these processes, highlighting compelling areas for future research.

Crosstalk between cholesterol metabolism and psoriatic inflammation

Psoriasis is a chronic autoinflammatory skin disease associated with multiple comorbidities, with a prevalence ranging from 2 to 3% in the general population. Decades of preclinical and clinical studies have revealed that alterations in cholesterol and lipid metabolism are strongly associated with psoriasis. Cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-17), which are important in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, have been shown to affect cholesterol and lipid metabolism. Cholesterol metabolites and metabolic enzymes, on the other hand, influence not only the biofunction of keratinocytes (a primary type of cell in the epidermis) in psoriasis, but also the immune response and inflammation. However, the relationship between cholesterol metabolism and psoriasis has not been thoroughly reviewed. This review mainly focuses on cholesterol metabolism disturbances in psoriasis and their crosstalk with psoriatic inflammation.

B cells in tumor metastasis: friend or foe?

Metastasis is an important cause of cancer-related death. Immunotherapy may be an effective way to prevent and treat tumor metastasis in the future. Currently, many studies have focused on T cells, whereas fewer have focused on B cells and their subsets. B cells play an important role in tumor metastasis. They not only secrete antibodies and various cytokines but also function in antigen presentation to directly or indirectly participate in tumor immunity. Furthermore, B cells are involved in both inhibiting and promoting tumor metastasis, which demonstrates the complexity of B cells in tumor immunity. Moreover, different subgroups of B cells have distinct functions. The functions of B cells are also affected by the tumor microenvironment, and the metabolic homeostasis of B cells is also closely related to their function. In this review, we summarize the role of B cells in tumor metastasis, analyze the mechanisms of B cells, and discuss the current status and prospects of B cells in immunotherapy.

Metabolic dialogs between B cells and the tumor microenvironment: Implications for anticancer immunity

Immunometabolism, a branch of biology describing the link between immunity and metabolism, is an emerging topic in cancer immunology. It is currently well accepted that B cells and tertiary lymph structures formed by them are associated with favorable outcomes when patients undergo cancer immunotherapy. Understanding the determinants of B-cell fate and function in cancer patients is necessary for improving cancer immunotherapy. Accumulating evidence points to the tumor microenvironment being a critical metabolic hurdle to an efficient antitumor B-cell response. At the same time, several B-cell-derived metabolites have recently been reported to inhibit anticancer immunity. In this literature review, key B-cell immunometabolism studies and the metabolic life of B cells were summarized. Then, we discussed the intrinsic metabolic pathways of B cells themselves and how the tumor microenvironment and B cells in tumors metabolically influence each other. Finally, we pointed out key questions to provide some inspiration for further study of the role of B-cell immunometabolism in the antitumor immune response.

Nutraceuticals as Potential Therapeutic Modulators in Immunometabolism

Nutraceuticals act as cellular and functional modulators, contributing to the homeostasis of physiological processes. In an inflammatory microenvironment, these functional foods can interact with the immune system by modulating or balancing the exacerbated proinflammatory response. In this process, immune cells, such as antigen-presenting cells (APCs), identify danger signals and, after interacting with T lymphocytes, induce a specific effector response. Moreover, this conditions their change of state with phenotypical and functional modifications from the resting state to the activated and effector state, supposing an increase in their energy requirements that affect their intracellular metabolism, with each immune cell showing a unique metabolic signature. Thus, nutraceuticals, such as polyphenols, vitamins, fatty acids, and sulforaphane, represent an active option to use therapeutically for health or the prevention of different pathologies, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes. To regulate the inflammation associated with these pathologies, intervention in metabolic pathways through the modulation of metabolic energy with nutraceuticals is an attractive strategy that allows inducing important changes in cellular properties. Thus, we provide an overview of the link between metabolism, immune function, and nutraceuticals in chronic inflammatory processes associated with obesity and diabetes, paying particular attention to nutritional effects on APC and T cell immunometabolism, as well as the mechanisms required in the change in energetic pathways involved after their activation.

CD8+ T cell exhaustion in anti-tumour immunity: The new insights for cancer immunotherapy

CD8⁺ T cells play a crucial role in anti-tumour immunity, but they often undergo exhaustion, which affects the anti-tumour activity of CD8⁺ T cells. The effect and mechanism of exhausted CD8⁺ T cells have become the focus of anti-tumour immunity research. Recently, a large number of studies have confirmed that long-term antigen exposure can induce exhaustion. Cytokines previously have identified their effects (such as IL-2 and IL-10) may play a dual role in the exhaustion process of CD8⁺ T cells, suggesting a new mechanism of inducing exhaustion. This review just focuses our current understanding of the biology of exhausted CD8⁺ T cells, including differentiation pathways, cellular characteristics and signalling pathways involved in inducing exhaustion, and summarizes how these can be applied to tumour immunotherapy.

Cytokine production by human B cells: role in health and autoimmune disease

B cells are classically considered solely as antibody-producing cells driving humoral immune responses to foreign antigens in infections and vaccinations as well as self-antigens in pathological settings such as autoimmunity. However, it has now become clear that B cells can also secrete a vast array of cytokines, which influence both pro- and anti-inflammatory immune responses. Indeed, similarly to T cells, there is significant heterogeneity in cytokine-driven responses by B cells, ranging from the production of pro-inflammatory effector cytokines such as IL-6, through to the release of immunosuppressive cytokines such as IL-10. In this review, focusing on human B cells, we summarize the key findings that have revealed that cytokine-producing B cell subsets have critical functions in healthy immune responses and contribute to the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases.

B Cells at the Cross-Roads of Autoimmune Diseases and Auto-Inflammatory Syndromes

Whereas autoimmune diseases are mediated primarily by T and B cells, auto-inflammatory syndromes (AIFS) involve natural killer cells, macrophages, mast cells, dendritic cells, different granulocyte subsets and complement components. In contrast to autoimmune diseases, the immune response of patients with AIFS is not associated with a breakdown of immune tolerance to self-antigens. Focusing on B lymphocyte subsets, this article offers a fresh perspective on the multiple cross-talks between both branches of innate and adaptive immunity in mounting coordinated signals that lead to AIFS. By virtue of their potential to play a role in adaptive immunity and to exert innate-like functions, B cells can be involved in both promoting inflammation and mitigating auto-inflammation in disorders that include mevalonate kinase deficiency syndrome, Kawasaki syndrome, inflammatory bone disorders, Schnitzler syndrome, Neuro-Behçet's disease, and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Since there is a significant overlap between the pathogenic trajectories that culminate in autoimmune diseases, or AIFS, a more detailed understanding of their respective roles in the development of inflammation could lead to designing novel therapeutic avenues.

Glucose metabolism and tumour microenvironment in pancreatic cancer: A key link in cancer progression

Early and accurate diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer (PC) remain challenging endeavors globally. Late diagnosis lag, high invasiveness, chemical resistance, and poor prognosis are unresolved issues of PC. The concept of metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer cells. Increasing evidence shows that PC cells alter metabolic processes such as glucose, amino acids, and lipids metabolism and require continuous nutrition for survival, proliferation, and invasion. Glucose metabolism, in particular, regulates the tumour microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, the link between glucose metabolism and TME also plays an important role in the targeted therapy, chemoresistance, radiotherapy ineffectiveness, and immunosuppression of PC. Altered metabolism with the TME has emerged as a key mechanism regulating PC progression. This review shed light on the relationship between TME, glucose metabolism, and various aspects of PC. The findings of this study provide a new direction in the development of PC therapy targeting the metabolism of cancer cells.

IL-10: A bridge between immune cells and metabolism during pregnancy

Energy metabolism plays a crucial role in the immune system. In addition to providing vital energy for cell growth, reproduction and other cell activities, the metabolism of nutrients such as glucose and lipids also have significant effects on cell function through metabolites, metabolic enzymes, and changing metabolic status. Interleukin-10 (IL-10), as a pleiotropic regulator, can be secreted by a diverse set of cells and can also participate in regulating the functions of various cells, thereby playing an essential role in the formation and maintenance of immune tolerance in pregnancy. Studies on the regulatory effects and mechanisms of IL-10 on immune cells are extensive; however, research from a metabolic perspective is relatively negligible. Here, we have discussed old and new data on the relationship between IL-10 and metabolism. The data show that alterations in cellular metabolism and specific metabolites regulate IL-10 production of immune cells. Moreover, IL-10 regulates immune cell phenotypes and functions by modulating oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis. This review summarizes some earlier observations regarding IL-10 and its relationship with immune cells in pregnancy, and also presents recent research on the link between IL-10 and metabolism, highlighting the potential relationship between IL-10, immune cells, and energy metabolism during pregnancy.

Influence of nutrients and metabolites on the differentiation of plasma cells and implications for autoimmunity

The modulation of inflammatory (auto)immune reactions by nutrients and gut bacterial metabolites is of great interest for potential preventive and therapeutic strategies. B cell-derived plasma cells are major players in inflammatory (auto)immune responses and can exhibit pro- or anti-inflammatory effects through (auto)antibody-dependent and -independent functions. Emerging evidence indicates a key role of nutrients and microbial metabolites in regulating the differentiation of plasma cells as well as their differentiation to pro- or anti-inflammatory phenotypes. These effects might be mediated indirectly by influencing other immune cells or directly through B cell-intrinsic mechanisms. Here, we provide an overview of nutrients and metabolites that influence B cell-intrinsic signaling pathways regulating B cell activation, plasma cell differentiation, and effector functions. Furthermore, we outline important inflammatory plasma cell phenotypes whose differentiation could be targeted by nutrients and microbial metabolites. Finally, we discuss possible implications for inflammatory (auto)immune conditions.

Fecal microbiota of adolescent and young adult cancer survivors and metabolic syndrome: an exploratory study

Metabolic syndrome and obesity occur commonly in long-term pediatric cancer survivors. The intestinal microbiome is associated with metabolic syndrome and obesity in the general population, and is perturbed during cancer therapy. We aimed to determine if long-term survivors of pediatric cancer would have reduced bacterial microbiome diversity, and if these findings would be associated with components of the metabolic syndrome, obesity, and chronic inflammation. We performed a cross-sectional exploratory study examining the intestinal microbiome via 16S amplicon sequencing, treatment history, clinical measurements (blood pressure, body mass index) and biomarkers (hemoglobin A1c, lipoproteins, adiponectin: leptin ratio, C-reactive protein, TNFα, Interleukin-6, and Interleukin-10) between 35 long-term survivors and 32 age, sex, and race matched controls. All subjects were aged 10-40 years, and survivors were at least five years from therapy completion. Survivors had lower alpha diversity compared to controls (Shannon index p = .001, Simpson index p = .032) and differently abundant bacterial taxa. Further, among survivors, those who received radiation (18/35) to the central nervous system or abdomen/pelvis had decreased alpha diversity compared to those who did not receive radiation (Shannon and Simpson p < .05 for both). Although, no specific component of metabolic syndrome or cytokine was associated with measures of alpha diversity, survivors with low adiponectin-lectin ratio, elevated body mass index, and elevated C-reactive protein had differently abundant taxa compared to those with normal measures. The microbiome of cancer survivors remains less diverse than controls even many years after diagnosis, and exposure to radiation may lead to further loss of diversity in survivors.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/08880018.2022.2049937.

Regulation of immune cell metabolism in health and disease: Special focus on T and B cell subsets

Metabolism is a dynamic process and keeps changing from time to time according to the demand of a particular cell to meet its bio-energetic requirement. Different immune cells rely on distinct metabolic programs which allow the cell to balance its requirements for energy, molecular biosynthesis, and effector activity. In the aspect of infection and cancer immunology, effector T and B cells get exhausted and help tumor cells to evade immunosurveillance. On the other hand, T cells become hyperresponsive in the scenario of autoimmune diseases. In this article, we have explored the uniqueness and distinct metabolic features of key CD4⁺ T and B helper cell subsets, CD4⁺ T, B regulatory cell subsets and CD8⁺ T cells regarding health and disease. Th1 cells rely on glycolysis and glutaminolysis; inhibition of these metabolic pathways promotes Th1 cells in Treg population. However, Th2 cells are also dependent on glycolysis but an abundance of lactate within TME shifts their metabolic dependency to fatty acid metabolism. Th17 cells depend on HIF-1α mediated glycolysis, ablation of HIF-1α reduces Th17 cells but enhance Treg population. In contrast to effector T cells which are largely dependent on glycolysis for their differentiation and function, Treg cells mainly rely on FAO for their function. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to understand the metabolic fates of immune cells and how it facilitates their differentiation and function for different disease models. Targeting metabolic pathways to restore the functionality of immune cells in diseased conditions can lead to potent therapeutic measures.

Oxidative Phosphorylation Regulates Interleukin-10 Production in Regulatory B Cells via the Extracellular Signal-related Kinase Pathway

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) are immune cells that constrain autoimmune response and restrict inflammation via their expression of interleukin (IL)-10. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Breg differentiation and IL-10 secretion remain unclear. Previous data suggest that cellular metabolism determines both the fate and function of these cells. Here, we suggest an essential role for mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in the regulation of IL-10 in these Bregs. We found that IL-10⁺ B cells from IL-10-green fluorescent protein-expressing mice had higher oxygen consumption rate than IL-10^- B cells. In addition, inhibition of OXPHOS decreased the expression of IL-10 in B cells. Further, suppression of OXPHOS diminished the expression of surface markers for Bregs and impaired their therapeutic effects in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Mechanistically, mitochondrial OXPHOS was found to regulate the transcription factor HIF-1α through the extracellular signal-related kinase pathway. Taken together, this study reveals a strong correlation between mitochondrial OXPHOS and Breg phenotype/function, indicating OXPHOS as a therapeutic target in autoimmune diseases driven by Breg dysfunction.

Acteoside promotes B cell-derived IL-10 production and ameliorates autoimmunity

IL-10-producing regulatory B (Breg) cells are well recognized for maintaining immune tolerance. The impaired Breg cell function with decreased IL-10-producing capacity has been found in autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS). However, seldom therapeutic agents targeting Breg cells are available to treat those autoimmune diseases. Here, we showed that acteoside (AC), a caffeoyl phenylethanoid glycoside from a medicinal herb Radix Rehmanniae, could promote IL-10 production from both human and murine B cells via critically regulating the TLR4/PI3K axis. Moreover, TLR4 was found increased in Breg cells from mice with experimental SS (ESS), a mouse model that recapitulates human pSS. Thus, B cells from the ESS mice were susceptible to AC treatment, showing higher IL-10-producing capacity than those from naïve controls. In addition, AC treatment also promoted the production of IL-10 from TLR4⁺ CXCR4⁺ plasma cells of ESS mice. Notably, we found that AC was able to enter lymphoid organs upon oral administration. AC treatment effectively increased IL-10⁺ B cells in ESS mice and ameliorated disease pathology accompanied by reduced T effector cells, including Th17 and T follicular helper cells in the ESS mice. In conclusion, AC could promote Breg cell function and attenuate ESS pathology in vivo, which may be a promising drug candidate for treating pSS and other autoimmune diseases.

Lipid metabolism in T cell signaling and function

T cells orchestrate adaptive immunity against pathogens and other immune challenges, but their dysfunction can also mediate the pathogenesis of cancer and autoimmunity. Metabolic adaptation in response to immunological and microenvironmental signals contributes to T cell function and fate decision. Lipid metabolism has emerged as a key regulator of T cell responses, with selective lipid metabolites serving as metabolic rheostats to integrate environmental cues and interplay with intracellular signaling processes. Here, we discuss how extracellular, de novo synthesized and membrane lipids orchestrate T cell biology. We also describe the roles of lipids as regulators of intracellular signaling at the levels of transcriptional, epigenetic and post-translational regulation in T cells. Finally, we summarize therapeutic targeting of lipid metabolism and signaling, and conclude with a discussion of important future directions. Understanding the molecular and functional interplay between lipid metabolism and T cell biology will ultimately inform therapeutic intervention for human disease.

Transcriptomic Profiles of Splenic CD19+ B Cells in Mice Chronically Infected With the Larval Echinococcus granulosus

Background

We previously reported that the larval Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus) infection can expand the population of regulatory B cells in mice, thereby inhibiting the anti-infective immunity. However, the underlying mechanism is still largely unknown. This study further investigated the holistic transcriptomic profiles of total splenic B cells following the chronic infection of the parasite.

Methods

The infection model of larval E. granulosus was established by intraperitoneal inoculation with 2000 protoscolexes. Magnetic-Activated Cell Separation (MACS) was used to isolate the total splenic B cells. RNA sequencing was performed to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) after infection. The expression of selected DEGs was verified using qRT-PCR. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and Co-expression network analysis were applied to predict these DEGs' underlying biological processes, pathways, and interactions respectively.

Results

A total of 413 DEGs were identified in larval E. granulosus infected B cells, including 303 up- and 110 down-regulated genes. Notably, most DEGs related to inflammation and chemotaxis were significantly upregulated after infection. In line with these changes, significant expression upregulation of DEGs associated with fatty acid oxidation, lipid synthesis, lipolysis, lipid transport, and cholesterol biosynthesis, were observed in infected B cells. Co-expression network analysis showed an intimate interaction between these DEGs associated with immune and metabolism.

Conclusions

The present study revealed that the larval E. granulosus infection induces metabolic reprogramming of B cells, which provides a novel clue to clarify the immunoregulatory mechanism of B cells in parasitic infection.

Molecular Mechanisms Driving IL-10- Producing B Cells Functions: STAT3 and c-MAF as Underestimated Central Key Regulators?

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) have been highlighted in very different pathology settings including autoimmune diseases, allergy, graft rejection, and cancer. Improving tools for the characterization of Bregs has become the main objective especially in humans. Transitional, mature B cells and plasma cells can differentiate into IL-10 producing Bregs in both mice and humans, suggesting that Bregs are not derived from unique precursors but may arise from different competent progenitors at unrestricted development stages. Moreover, in addition to IL-10 production, regulatory B cells used a broad range of suppressing mechanisms to modulate the immune response. Although Bregs have been consistently described in the literature, only a few reports described the molecular aspects that control the acquisition of the regulatory function. In this manuscript, we detailed the latest reports describing the control of IL-10, TGFβ, and GZMB production in different Breg subsets at the molecular level. We focused on the understanding of the role of the transcription factors STAT3 and c-MAF in controlling IL-10 production in murine and human B cells and how these factors may represent an important crossroad of several key drivers of the Breg response. Finally, we provided original data supporting the evidence that MAF is expressed in human IL-10- producing plasmablast and could be induced in vitro following different stimulation cocktails. At steady state, we reported that MAF is expressed in specific human B-cell tonsillar subsets including the IgD⁺ CD27⁺ unswitched population, germinal center cells and plasmablast.

Mevalonate pathway orchestrates insulin signaling via RAB14 geranylgeranylation-mediated phosphorylation of AKT to regulate hepatic glucose metabolism

Statin use accompanies with increased risk of new onset of type 2 diabetes, however, the underlying mechanisms remain not be fully understood and effective prevention strategies are still lacking. Herein, we find that both pharmacological and genetic inhibition of GGTase II mimic the disruption of simvastatin on hepatic insulin signaling and glucose metabolism in vitro. AAV8-mediated knockdown of liver RABGGTA, the specific subunit of GGTase II, triggers systemic glucose metabolism disorders in vivo. By adopting a small-scale siRNA screening, we identify RAB14 as a regulator of hepatic insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. Geranylgeranylation deficiency of RAB14 inhibits the phosphorylation of AKT (Ser473) and disrupts hepatic insulin signaling and glucose metabolism possibly via impeding mTORC2 complex assembly. Finally, geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) supplementation is sufficient to prevent simvastatin-caused disruption of hepatic insulin signaling and glucose metabolism in vitro. Geranylgeraniol (GGOH), a precursor of GGPP, is able to ameliorate simvastatin-induced systemic glucose metabolism disorders in vivo. In conclusion, our data indicate that statins-targeted mevalonate pathway regulates hepatic insulin signaling and glucose metabolism via geranylgeranylation of RAB14. GGPP/GGOH supplementation might be an effective strategy for the prevention of the diabetic effects of statins.

[Cholesterol Metabolism and Tumor Immunity]

Cholesterol, an important lipid molecule of organisms, is involved in the formation of cell membrane structure, bile acid metabolism and steroid hormone synthesis, playing an important role in the regulation of cell structure and functions. In recent years, a large number of studies have shown that cholesterol metabolism is reprogrammed during tumor formation and development. In addition to directly affecting the biological behavior of tumor cells, cholesterol metabolic reprogramming also regulates the antitumor activity of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. We reviewed herein the cholesterol metabolism reprogramming of and interactions among immune cells including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), dendritic cells (DCs), and T cells in the tumor microenvironment. However, the relationship between cholesterol metabolism and tumor immunity in tumor microenvironment is complex and diversified. The differences and similarities of cholesterol metabolism reprogramming in tumor microenvironment in regulating immune cell activity and the specific regulatory mechanism are still unresolved issues. Targeted intervention of the cholesterol metabolism pathway of immune cells is expected to become a new strategy of cholesterol metabolism in tumor immunotherapy.

The cholesterol pathway: impact on immunity and cancer

Cholesterol is a multifaceted metabolite that is known to modulate processes in cancer, atherosclerosis, and autoimmunity. A common denominator between these diseases appears to be the immune system, in which many cholesterol-associated metabolites impact both adaptive and innate immunity. Many cancers display altered cholesterol metabolism, and recent studies demonstrate that manipulating systemic cholesterol metabolism may be useful in improving immunotherapy responses. However, cholesterol can have both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory roles in mammals, acting via multiple immune cell types, and depending on context. Gaining mechanistic insights into various cholesterol-related metabolites can improve our understanding of their functions and extensive effects on the immune system, and ideally will inform the design of future therapeutic strategies against cancer and/or other pathologies.

Glutamine promotes the generation of B10+ cells via the mTOR/GSK3 pathway

Alterations in cell metabolism can shift the differentiation of immune cells towards a regulatory or inflammatory phenotype, thus opening up new therapeutic opportunities for immune-related diseases. Indeed, growing knowledge on T cell metabolism has revealed differences in the metabolic programs of suppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs) as compared to inflammatory Th1 and Th17 cells. In addition to Tregs, IL-10-producing regulatory B cells are crucial for maintaining tolerance, inhibiting inflammation and autoimmunity. Yet, the metabolic networks regulating diverse B lymphocyte responses are not well known. Here, we show that glutaminase blockade decreased downstream mTOR activation and attenuated IL-10 secretion. Direct suppression of mTOR activity by rapamycin selectively impaired IL-10 production by B cells whereas secretion was restored upon GSK3 inhibition. Mechanistically, we found mTORC1 activation leads to GSK3 inhibition, identifying a key signalling pathway regulating IL-10 secretion by B lymphocytes. Thus, our results identify glutaminolysis and the mTOR/GSK3 signalling axis, as critical regulators of the generation of IL-10 producing B cells with regulatory functions. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Metabolic Program of Regulatory B Lymphocytes and Influence in the Control of Malignant and Autoimmune Situations

Metabolic pathways have been studied for a while in eukaryotic cells. During glycolysis, glucose enters into the cells through the Glut1 transporter to be phosphorylated and metabolized generating ATP molecules. Immune cells can use additional pathways to adapt their energetic needs. The pentose phosphate pathway, the glutaminolysis, the fatty acid oxidation and the oxidative phosphorylation generate additional metabolites to respond to the physiological requirements. Specifically, in B lymphocytes, these pathways are activated to meet energetic demands in relation to their maturation status and their functional orientation (tolerance, effector or regulatory activities). These metabolic programs are differentially involved depending on the receptors and the co-activation molecules stimulated. Their induction may also vary according to the influence of the microenvironment, i.e. the presence of T cells, cytokines … promoting the expression of particular transcription factors that direct the energetic program and modulate the number of ATP molecule produced. The current review provides recent advances showing the underestimated influence of the metabolic pathways in the control of the B cell physiology, with a particular focus on the regulatory B cells, but also in the oncogenic and autoimmune evolution of the B cells.

Mechanisms of induction of tumors by cholesterol and potential therapeutic prospects

Increasing evidence suggested that cholesterol is an important integrant of cell membranes, that plays a key role in tumor progression, immune dysregulation, and pathological changes in epigenetic mechanisms. Based on these theories, there is a growing interest on targeting cholesterol in the treatment of cancer. Here, we comprehensively reviewed the major function of cholesterol on oncogenicity, the therapeutic targets of cholesterol and its metabolites in cancer, and provide detailed insight into the essential roles of cholesterol in mediating immune and epigenetic mechanisms of the tumor microenvironment. It is also worth mentioning that the gut microbiome is an indispensable component of cancer mediation because of its role in cholesterol metabolism. Finally, we summarized recent studies on the potential targets of cholesterol and their metabolism, to provide more therapeutic interventions in oncology.

A guide to interrogating immunometabolism

The metabolic charts memorized in early biochemistry courses, and then later forgotten, have come back to haunt many immunologists with new recognition of the importance of these pathways. Metabolites and the activity of metabolic pathways drive energy production, macromolecule synthesis, intracellular signalling, post-translational modifications and cell survival. Immunologists who identify a metabolic phenotype in their system are often left wondering where to begin and what does it mean? Here, we provide a framework for navigating and selecting the appropriate biochemical techniques to explore immunometabolism. We offer recommendations for initial approaches to develop and test metabolic hypotheses and how to avoid common mistakes. We then discuss how to take things to the next level with metabolomic approaches, such as isotope tracing and genetic approaches. By proposing strategies and evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of different methodologies, we aim to provide insight, note important considerations and discuss ways to avoid common misconceptions. Furthermore, we highlight recent studies demonstrating the power of these metabolic approaches to uncover the role of metabolism in immunology. By following the framework in this Review, neophytes and seasoned investigators alike can venture into the emerging realm of cellular metabolism and immunity with confidence and rigour.

Metabolomics Analysis of Splenic CD19+ B Cells in Mice Chronically Infected With Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato Protoscoleces

Background: The larval stages of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (E. granulosus s.l) infection can alter B cell function and affect host anti-infective immunity, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The newly emerging immunometabolism highlights that several metabolites are key factors in determining the fate of immune cells, which provides a new insight for exploring how larval E. granulosus s.l. infection remodels B cell function. This study investigated the metabolomic profiles of B cells in mice infected with E. granulosus s.l. protoscoleces (PSC).

Results:Total CD19⁺ B cells, purified from the spleen of infected mice, showed significantly increased production of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 after exposure to LPS in vitro. Moreover, the mRNA expression of metabolism related enzymes in B cells was remarkably disordered post infection. In addition, differential metabolites were identified in B cells after infection. There were 340 differential metabolites (83 upregulated and 257 downregulated metabolites) identified in the positive ion model, and 216 differential metabolites (97 upregulated and 119 downregulated metabolites) identified in the negative ion mode. Among these, 64 differential metabolites were annotated and involved in 68 metabolic pathways, including thyroid hormone synthesis, the metabolic processes of glutathione, fructose, mannose, and glycerophospholipid. Furthermore, several differential metabolites such as glutathione, taurine, and inosine were validated to regulate the cytokine production in LPS stimulated B cells.

Conclusion:Infection with the larval E. granulosus s.l. causes metabolic reprogramming in the intrinsic B cells of mice, which provides the first evidence for understanding the role and mechanism of B cells in parasite anti-infective immunity from the viewpoint of immunometabolism.

Compromised Protein Prenylation as Pathogenic Mechanism in Mevalonate Kinase Deficiency

Mevalonate kinase deficiency (MKD) is an autoinflammatory metabolic disorder characterized by life-long recurring episodes of fever and inflammation, often without clear cause. MKD is caused by bi-allelic pathogenic variants in the MVK gene, resulting in a decreased activity of the encoded enzyme mevalonate kinase (MK). MK is an essential enzyme in the isoprenoid biosynthesis pathway, which generates both non-sterol and sterol isoprenoids. The inflammatory symptoms of patients with MKD point to a major role for isoprenoids in the regulation of the innate immune system. In particular a temporary shortage of the non-sterol isoprenoid geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) is increasingly linked with inflammation in MKD. The shortage of GGPP compromises protein prenylation, which is thought to be one of the main causes leading to the inflammatory episodes in MKD. In this review, we discuss current views and the state of knowledge of the pathogenetic mechanisms in MKD, with particular focus on the role of compromised protein prenylation.

Pravastatin ameliorated osteoarthritis susceptibility in male offspring rats induced by prenatal ethanol exposure

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease associated with a disorder of cholesterol metabolism. Our previous studies showed that prenatal ethanol exposure (PEE) caused cholesterol accumulation in articular cartilage and increased the susceptibility to OA in offspring. However, we did not determine whether pravastatin, a cholesterol-lowering agent, could rescue PEE-induced susceptibility to OA. Here, fetal rats were divided into a PEE group and a control group during pregnancy. At postnatal week (PW) 8, sixteen male offspring rats from both groups were injected papain through the articular cavity. Eight of them from each group were treated with pravastatin (20 mg/kg·d) by gavage for four weeks simultaneously. We found that pravastatin ameliorated papain-induced high expression of inflammatory factors [interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6], matrix degradation enzymes [matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, MMP-13], and apoptosis factors (caspase-3 and caspase-8) in the cartilage of the PEE group. Also, pravastatin significantly reduced the content of TCH in the blood and cartilage of the PEE offspring and improved cholesterol efflux pathway. Our in vitro findings further confirmed that pravastatin partially reversed cholesterol-induced inflammation and apoptosis of chondrocytes. In conclusion, pravastatin effectively reduced inflammation and matrix degradation, and thus ameliorate OA susceptibility in articular cartilage by relieving cholesterol accumulation in chondrocyte.

Effects of short-chain fatty acids in inhibiting HDAC and activating p38 MAPK are critical for promoting B10 cell generation and function

B10 cells are regulatory B cells capable of producing IL-10 for maintaining immune homeostasis. Dysregulation of B10 cells occurs in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Modulation or adoptive transfer of B10 cells is a promising therapeutic strategy. The short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), the metabolites of microbiota, play a critical role in maintaining immune homeostasis and are the potential drugs for the modulation of B10 cells. It is not clear whether and how SCFAs upregulate the frequency of B10 cells. Here, we found that SCFAs could promote murine and human B10 cell generation in vitro. Upregulation of B10 cells by butyrate or pentanoate was also observed in either healthy mice, mice with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis, or mice with collagen-induced arthritis. Moreover, SCFA treatment could ameliorate clinical scores of colitis and arthritis. Adoptive transfer of B cells pretreated with butyrate showed more alleviation of DSS-induced colitis than those without butyrate. A further study demonstrates that SCFAs upregulate B10 cells in a manner dependent on their histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitory activity and independent of the G-protein-coupled receptor pathway. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that the MAPK signaling pathway was enriched in B10 cells treated with butyrate. A study with inhibitors of ERK, JNK, and p38 MAPK demonstrated that activating p38 MAPK by butyrate is critical for the upregulation of B10 cells. Moreover, HDAC inhibitor has similar effects on B10 cells. Our study sheds light on the mechanism underlying B10 cell differentiation and function and provides a potential therapeutic strategy with SCFAs and HDAC inhibitors for inflammation and autoimmune diseases.

B Cell Metabolism and Autophagy in Autoimmunity

B cells are central to the pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune diseases, through antigen presentation, cytokine secretion, and the production of autoantibodies. During development and differentiation, B cells undergo drastic changes in their physiology. It is emerging that these are accompanied by equally significant shifts in metabolic phenotype, which may themselves also drive and enforce the functional properties of the cell. The dysfunction of B cells during autoimmunity is characterised by the breaching of tolerogenic checkpoints, and there is developing evidence that the metabolic state of B cells may contribute to this. Determining the metabolic phenotype of B cells in autoimmunity is an area of active study, and is important because intervention by metabolism-altering therapeutic approaches may represent an attractive treatment target.

B Cell Orchestration of Anti-tumor Immune Responses: A Matter of Cell Localization and Communication

The immune system plays a crucial role in cancer development either by fostering tumor growth or destroying tumor cells, which has open new avenues for cancer immunotherapy. It was only over the last decade that the role of B cells in controlling anti-tumor immune responses in the tumor milieu has begun to be appreciated. B and plasma cells can exert anti-tumor effects through antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC) and activation of the complement cascade, even though their effector functions extend beyond the classical humoral immunity. In tumor tissues, B cells can be found in lymphoid aggregates, known as tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs), well-organized non-encapsulated structures composed of immune and stromal cells. These structures reflect a process of lymphoid neogenesis occurring in peripheral tissues upon long-lasting exposure to inflammatory signals. The TLS provides an area of intense B cell antigen presentation that can lead to optimal T cell activation and effector functions, as well as the generation of effector B cells, which can be further differentiated in either antibody-secreting plasma cells or memory B cells. Of clinical interest, the crosstalk between B cells and antigen-experienced and exhausted CD8+ T cells within mature TLS was recently associated with improved response to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in melanoma, sarcoma and lung cancer. Otherwise, B cells sparsely distributed in the tumor microenvironment or organized in immature TLSs were found to exert immune-regulatory functions, inhibiting anti-tumor immunity through the secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Such phenotype might arise when B cells interact with malignant cells rather than T and dendritic cells. Differences in the spatial distribution likely underlie discrepancies between the role of B cells inferred from human samples or mouse models. Many fast-growing orthotopic tumors develop a malignant cell-rich bulk with reduced stroma and are devoid of TLSs, which highlights the importance of carefully selecting pre-clinical models. In summary, strategies that promote TLS formation in close proximity to tumor cells are likely to favor immunotherapy responses. Here, the cellular and molecular programs coordinating B cell development, activation and organization within TLSs will be reviewed, focusing on their translational relevance to cancer immunotherapy.

Cholesterol metabolism: a new molecular switch to control inflammation

The immune system protects the body against harm by inducing inflammation. During the immune response, cells of the immune system get activated, divided and differentiated in order to eliminate the danger signal. This process relies on the metabolic reprogramming of both catabolic and anabolic pathways not only to produce energy in the form of ATP but also to generate metabolites that exert key functions in controlling the response. Equally important to mounting an appropriate effector response is the process of immune resolution, as uncontrolled inflammation is implicated in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, including allergy, chronic inflammation and cancer. In this review, we aim to introduce the reader to the field of cholesterol immunometabolism and discuss how both metabolites arising from the pathway and cholesterol homeostasis are able to impact innate and adaptive immune cells, staging cholesterol homeostasis at the centre of an adequate immune response. We also review evidence that demonstrates the clear impact that cholesterol metabolism has in both the induction and the resolution of the inflammatory response. Finally, we propose that emerging data in this field not only increase our understanding of immunometabolism but also provide new tools for monitoring and intervening in human diseases, where controlling and/or modifying inflammation is desirable.

TCL1A, B Cell Regulation and Tolerance in Renal Transplantation

Despite much progress in the management of kidney transplantation, the need for life-long immunosuppressive therapies remains a major issue representing many risks for patients. Operational tolerance, defined as allograft acceptance without immunosuppression, has logically been subject to many investigations with the aim of a better understanding of post-transplantation mechanisms and potentially how it would be induced in patients. Among proposed biomarkers, T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma protein 1A (TCL1A) has been observed as overexpressed in the peripheral blood of operational tolerant patients in several studies. TCL1A expression is restricted to early B cells, also increased in the blood of tolerant patients, and showing regulatory properties, notably through IL-10 secretion for some subsets. TCL1A has first been identified as an oncogene, overexpression of which is associated to the development of T and B cell cancer. TCL1A acts as a coactivator of the serine threonine kinase Akt and through other interactions favoring cell survival, growth, and proliferation. It has also been identified as interacting with others major actors involved in B cells differentiation and regulation, including IL-10 production. Herein, we reviewed known interactions and functions of TCL1A in B cells which could involve its potential role in the set up and maintenance of renal allograft tolerance.

The emerging field of regulatory B cell immunometabolism

B cells are well known as critical mediators of humoral immune responses via the production of antibodies. However, numerous studies have also identified populations of B cells that are characterized by their anti-inflammatory properties. These "regulatory B cells" restrain excessive inflammatory responses in a wide range of health conditions. A significant knowledge gap remains concerning the nature of the signals that determine whether a B cell exerts a pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory function. In this perspective, we explore the concept that in addition to the cytokine microenvironment, intracellular and extracellular metabolic signals play a pivotal role in controlling the balance between regulatory and antibody-producing B cell subsets. Determining the metabolites and tissue-specific signals that influence B cell fate could establish novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of diseases where abnormal B cell responses contribute to pathogenesis.

Immunologic Aspects of Dyslipidemia: a Critical Regulator of Adaptive Immunity and Immune Disorders

Dyslipidemia is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases which represent a leading cause of death in humans. Diverse immune cells are known to be involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. Conversely, dyslipidemia is known to be tightly associated with immune disorders in humans, as evidenced by a higher incidence of atherosclerosis in patients with autoimmune diseases including psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Given that the dyslipidemia-related autoimmune diseases are caused by autoreactive T cells and B cells, dyslipidemia seems to directly or indirectly regulate the adaptive immunity. Indeed, accumulating evidence has unveiled that proatherogenic factors can impact the differentiation and function of CD4⁺ T cells, CD8⁺ T cells, and B cells. This review discusses an updated overview on the regulation of adaptive immunity by dyslipidemia and proposes a potential therapeutic strategy for immune disorders by targeting lipid metabolism.

Immunosuppressive Mechanisms of Regulatory B Cells

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) is a term that encompasses all B cells that act to suppress immune responses. Bregs contribute to the maintenance of tolerance, limiting ongoing immune responses and reestablishing immune homeostasis. The important role of Bregs in restraining the pathology associated with exacerbated inflammatory responses in autoimmunity and graft rejection has been consistently demonstrated, while more recent studies have suggested a role for this population in other immune-related conditions, such as infections, allergy, cancer, and chronic metabolic diseases. Initial studies identified IL-10 as the hallmark of Breg function; nevertheless, the past decade has seen the discovery of other molecules utilized by human and murine B cells to regulate immune responses. This new arsenal includes other anti-inflammatory cytokines such IL-35 and TGF-β, as well as cell surface proteins like CD1d and PD-L1. In this review, we examine the main suppressive mechanisms employed by these novel Breg populations. We also discuss recent evidence that helps to unravel previously unknown aspects of the phenotype, development, activation, and function of IL-10-producing Bregs, incorporating an overview on those questions that remain obscure.

How Changes in the Nutritional Landscape Shape Gut Immunometabolism

Cell survival, proliferation and function are energy-demanding processes, fuelled by different metabolic pathways. Immune cells like any other cells will adapt their energy production to their function with specific metabolic pathways characteristic of resting, inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cells. This concept of immunometabolism is revolutionising the field of immunology, opening the gates for novel therapeutic approaches aimed at altering immune responses through immune metabolic manipulations. The first part of this review will give an extensive overview on the metabolic pathways used by immune cells. Diet is a major source of energy, providing substrates to fuel these different metabolic pathways. Protein, lipid and carbohydrate composition as well as food additives can thus shape the immune response particularly in the gut, the first immune point of contact with food antigens and gastrointestinal tract pathogens. How diet composition might affect gut immunometabolism and its impact on diseases will also be discussed. Finally, the food ingested by the host is also a source of energy for the micro-organisms inhabiting the gut lumen particularly in the colon. The by-products released through the processing of specific nutrients by gut bacteria also influence immune cell activity and differentiation. How bacterial metabolites influence gut immunometabolism will be covered in the third part of this review. This notion of immunometabolism and immune function is recent and a deeper understanding of how lifestyle might influence gut immunometabolism is key to prevent or treat diseases.

Gene Expression Analysis of Mevalonate Kinase Deficiency Affected Children Identifies Molecular Signatures Related to Hematopoiesis

Mevalonate kinase deficiency (MKD) is a rare autoinflammatory genetic disorder characterized by recurrent fever attacks and systemic inflammation with potentially severe complications. Although it is recognized that the lack of protein prenylation consequent to mevalonate pathway blockade drives IL1β hypersecretion, and hence autoinflammation, MKD pathogenesis and the molecular mechanisms underlaying most of its clinical manifestations are still largely unknown. In this study, we performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of a microarray dataset of MKD patients, using gene ontology and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) tools, in order to identify the most significant differentially expressed genes and infer their predicted relationships into biological processes, pathways, and networks. We found that hematopoiesis linked biological functions and pathways are predominant in the gene ontology of differentially expressed genes in MKD, in line with the observed clinical feature of anemia. We also provided novel information about the molecular mechanisms at the basis of the hematological abnormalities observed, that are linked to the chronic inflammation and to defective prenylation. Considering the broad and unspecific spectrum of MKD clinical manifestations and the difficulty in its diagnosis, a better understanding of MKD molecular bases could be translated to the clinical level to facilitate diagnosis, and improve management and therapy.