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Giardina FAM, Pellegrinelli L, Novazzi F, Vian E, Biscaro V, Russo C, Ranno S, Pagani E, Masi E, Tiberio C, Esposito M, Uceda Renteria S, Callegaro A, Piccirilli G, Lazzarotto T, Rovida F, Galli C, Lalle E, Maggi F, Mancini N, Acciarri C, Menzo S, Colacicco AM, Scarasciulli M, Piralla A, Baldanti F, Pariani E. Epidemiological impact of human adenovirus as causative agent of respiratory infections: An Italian multicentre retrospective study, 2022-2023. J Infect Chemother 2024:S1341-321X(24)00195-8. [PMID: 39043318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2024.07.017] [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: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Human adenoviruses are the causative agents of 5-7% of viral respiratory infections, mainly caused by species B and C. They can infect all age groups, but children are usually at high risk of infections. Adenovirus epidemiology is well documented in East-Asian countries but little is known about adenovirus circulation in Europe in recent years. This multicentre retrospective study aimed to investigate the circulation and molecular epidemiology of hAdVs. This surveillance collected a total of 54463 respiratory specimens between January 1, 2022 and June 20, 2023 were tested for the presence of respiratory viruses. Our results showed that adenovirus was detected in 6.6 % of all cases of acute respiratory infection included in the study and the median age of positive patients was 3 years, with male children in 1-2 years age group being the most affected. 43.5 % of adenovirus cases were co-infected with at least one other respiratory virus, and rhinovirus was co-detected in 54 % of cases. Genotyping of adenovirus allowed the identification of 6 different genotypes circulating in Italy, among which type B3 was the most frequently detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica A M Giardina
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Laura Pellegrinelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Federica Novazzi
- Department of Medicine and Innovation Technology, University of Insubria (DIMIT), Varese, Italy; Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology University Hospital of Varese, Varese, Italy.
| | - Elisa Vian
- UOC Microbiology Treviso Hospital, Department of Specialist and Laboratory Medicine, AULSS 2 La, Marca, Italy.
| | - Valeria Biscaro
- UOC Microbiology Treviso Hospital, Department of Specialist and Laboratory Medicine, AULSS 2 La, Marca, Italy.
| | - Cristina Russo
- Virology and Mycobacteria UOS, Microbiology and Diagnostic Immunology UOC, Bambino Gesù Children Hospital IRCCS, Roma, Italy.
| | - Stefania Ranno
- Virology and Mycobacteria UOS, Microbiology and Diagnostic Immunology UOC, Bambino Gesù Children Hospital IRCCS, Roma, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Pagani
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Provincial Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Lehrkrankenhaus der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität, Bolzano, Italy.
| | - Elisa Masi
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Provincial Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Lehrkrankenhaus der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität, Bolzano, Italy.
| | - Claudia Tiberio
- UOC Microbiology and Virology, Cotugno Hospital AORN dei Colli, Naples, Italy.
| | - Martina Esposito
- UOC Microbiology and Virology, Cotugno Hospital AORN dei Colli, Naples, Italy.
| | - Sara Uceda Renteria
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Annapaola Callegaro
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giulia Piccirilli
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Lazzarotto
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Francesca Rovida
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Cristina Galli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Lalle
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Nicasio Mancini
- Department of Medicine and Innovation Technology, University of Insubria (DIMIT), Varese, Italy; Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology University Hospital of Varese, Varese, Italy.
| | - Carla Acciarri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Stefano Menzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy; Virology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Anna Maria Colacicco
- Virology Laboratory - Microbiology and Virology Unit - University of Bari - Policlinic of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - Maria Scarasciulli
- Virology Laboratory - Microbiology and Virology Unit - University of Bari - Policlinic of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - Antonio Piralla
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Fausto Baldanti
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Elena Pariani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Forsyth KS, Jiwrajka N, Lovell CD, Toothacre NE, Anguera MC. The conneXion between sex and immune responses. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:487-502. [PMID: 38383754 PMCID: PMC11216897 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-00996-9] [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] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
There are notable sex-based differences in immune responses to pathogens and self-antigens, with female individuals exhibiting increased susceptibility to various autoimmune diseases, and male individuals displaying preferential susceptibility to some viral, bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections. Although sex hormones clearly contribute to sex differences in immune cell composition and function, the presence of two X chromosomes in female individuals suggests that differential gene expression of numerous X chromosome-linked immune-related genes may also influence sex-biased innate and adaptive immune cell function in health and disease. Here, we review the sex differences in immune system composition and function, examining how hormones and genetics influence the immune system. We focus on the genetic and epigenetic contributions responsible for altered X chromosome-linked gene expression, and how this impacts sex-biased immune responses in the context of pathogen infection and systemic autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Forsyth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nikhil Jiwrajka
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Claudia D Lovell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Natalie E Toothacre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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3
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Bourel C, Lesage S. Highlight of 2023: From fundamental studies to clinical trials, the importance of NK cells against cancer. Immunol Cell Biol 2024; 102:441-443. [PMID: 38670548 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12763] [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: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
In this article for the Highlights of 2023 Series, we discuss how various factors affect the ability of natural killer (NK) cells to fight tumors. For instance, tumor cells can hinder NK cell function by reducing surface protrusions or increasing HLA-E expression via platelets. Lower UTX protein levels in male NK cells also decrease their cytotoxicity compared with females. Fortunately, recent advancements in therapeutic approaches have emerged, including the development of a comprehensive atlas of NK cell heterogeneity within the tumor microenvironment, as well as a trispecific engager molecule that has shown promise in enhancing the anti-tumor functions of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Capucine Bourel
- Immunologie-oncologie, Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sylvie Lesage
- Immunologie-oncologie, Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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4
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Rubin JB, Abou-Antoun T, Ippolito JE, Llaci L, Marquez CT, Wong JP, Yang L. Epigenetic developmental mechanisms underlying sex differences in cancer. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e180071. [PMID: 38949020 PMCID: PMC11213507 DOI: 10.1172/jci180071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer risk is modulated by hereditary and somatic mutations, exposures, age, sex, and gender. The mechanisms by which sex and gender work alone and in combination with other cancer risk factors remain underexplored. In general, cancers that occur in both the male and female sexes occur more commonly in XY compared with XX individuals, regardless of genetic ancestry, geographic location, and age. Moreover, XY individuals are less frequently cured of their cancers, highlighting the need for a greater understanding of sex and gender effects in oncology. This will be necessary for optimal laboratory and clinical cancer investigations. To that end, we review the epigenetics of sexual differentiation and its effect on cancer hallmark pathways throughout life. Specifically, we will touch on how sex differences in metabolism, immunity, pluripotency, and tumor suppressor functions are patterned through the epigenetic effects of imprinting, sex chromosome complement, X inactivation, genes escaping X inactivation, sex hormones, and life history.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joseph E. Ippolito
- Department of Radiology
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics
| | - Lorida Llaci
- Deartment of Genetics Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Oh S, Janknecht R. Versatile JMJD proteins: juggling histones and much more. Trends Biochem Sci 2024:S0968-0004(24)00152-X. [PMID: 38926050 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2024.06.009] [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: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Jumonji C domain-containing (JMJD) proteins are found in bacteria, fungi, animals, and plants. They belong to the 2-oxoglutarate-dependent oxygenase superfamily and are endowed with various enzymatic activities, including demethylation of histones and hydroxylation of non-histone proteins. Many JMJD proteins are involved in the epigenetic control of gene expression, yet they also modulate a myriad other cellular processes. In this review we focus on the 33 human JMJD proteins and their established and controversial catalytic properties, survey their epigenetic and non-epigenetic functions, emphasize their contribution to sex-specific disease differences, and highlight how they sense metabolic changes. All this underlines not only their key roles in development and homeostasis, but also that JMJD proteins are destined to become drug targets in multiple diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangphil Oh
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| | - Ralf Janknecht
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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6
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Bengu N, Cromhout G, Adland E, Govender K, Herbert N, Lim N, Fillis R, Sprenger K, Vieira V, Kannie S, van Lobenstein J, Chinniah K, Kapongo C, Bhoola R, Krishna M, Mchunu N, Pascucci GR, Cotugno N, Palma P, Tagarro A, Rojo P, Roider J, Garcia-Guerrero MC, Ochsenbauer C, Groll A, Reddy K, Giaquinto C, Rossi P, Hong S, Dong K, Ansari MA, Puertas MC, Ndung'u T, Capparelli E, Lichterfeld M, Martinez-Picado J, Kappes JC, Archary M, Goulder P. Sustained aviremia despite anti-retroviral therapy non-adherence in male children after in utero HIV transmission. Nat Med 2024:10.1038/s41591-024-03105-4. [PMID: 38843818 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03105-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
After sporadic reports of post-treatment control of HIV in children who initiated combination anti-retroviral therapy (cART) early, we prospectively studied 284 very-early-cART-treated children from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, after vertical HIV transmission to assess control of viremia. Eighty-four percent of the children achieved aviremia on cART, but aviremia persisting to 36 or more months was observed in only 32%. We observed that male infants have lower baseline plasma viral loads (P = 0.01). Unexpectedly, a subset (n = 5) of males maintained aviremia despite unscheduled complete discontinuation of cART lasting 3-10 months (n = 4) or intermittent cART adherence during 17-month loss to follow-up (n = 1). We further observed, in vertically transmitted viruses, a negative correlation between type I interferon (IFN-I) resistance and viral replication capacity (VRC) (P < 0.0001) that was markedly stronger for males than for females (r = -0.51 versus r = -0.07 for IFN-α). Although viruses transmitted to male fetuses were more IFN-I sensitive and of higher VRC than those transmitted to females in the full cohort (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0003, respectively), the viruses transmitted to the five males maintaining cART-free aviremia had significantly lower replication capacity (P < 0.0001). These data suggest that viremic control can occur in some infants with in utero-acquired HIV infection after early cART initiation and may be associated with innate immune sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nomonde Bengu
- Queen Nandi Regional Hospital, Empangeni, South Africa
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Gabriela Cromhout
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Paediatrics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Emily Adland
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Nicholas Lim
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rowena Fillis
- Harry Gwala Regional Hospital, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Kenneth Sprenger
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Samantha Kannie
- General Justice Gizenga Mpanza Regional Hospital, Stanger, South Africa
| | | | | | | | - Roopesh Bhoola
- Harry Gwala Regional Hospital, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Malini Krishna
- Harry Gwala Regional Hospital, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Noxolo Mchunu
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Giuseppe Rubens Pascucci
- Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology Unit, IRCCS, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
- Probiomics S.r.l., Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Cotugno
- Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology Unit, IRCCS, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Palma
- Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology Unit, IRCCS, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Tagarro
- Fundación de Investigación Biomédica Hospital 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Infanta Sofia University Hospital and Henares University Hospital Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Madrid, Spain
- Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Rojo
- Fundación de Investigación Biomédica Hospital 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Kavidha Reddy
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Paolo Rossi
- Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology Unit, IRCCS, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Seohyun Hong
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Krista Dong
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Azim Ansari
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Maria C Puertas
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Thumbi Ndung'u
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Javier Martinez-Picado
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - John C Kappes
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Research Service, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Moherndran Archary
- Department of Paediatrics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Philip Goulder
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa.
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Boston, MA, USA.
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Armani-Tourret M, Bone B, Tan TS, Sun W, Bellefroid M, Struyve T, Louella M, Yu XG, Lichterfeld M. Immune targeting of HIV-1 reservoir cells: a path to elimination strategies and cure. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024; 22:328-344. [PMID: 38337034 PMCID: PMC11131351 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-024-01010-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Successful approaches for eradication or cure of HIV-1 infection are likely to include immunological mechanisms, but remarkably little is known about how human immune responses can recognize and interact with the few HIV-1-infected cells that harbour genome-intact viral DNA, persist long term despite antiretroviral therapy and represent the main barrier to a cure. For a long time regarded as being completely shielded from host immune responses due to viral latency, these cells do, on closer examination with single-cell analytic techniques, display discrete footprints of immune selection, implying that human immune responses may be able to effectively engage and target at least some of these cells. The failure to eliminate rebound-competent virally infected cells in the majority of persons likely reflects the evolution of a highly selected pool of reservoir cells that are effectively camouflaged from immune recognition or rely on sophisticated approaches for resisting immune-mediated killing. Understanding the fine-tuned interplay between host immune responses and viral reservoir cells will help to design improved interventions that exploit the immunological vulnerabilities of HIV-1 reservoir cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Armani-Tourret
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Benjamin Bone
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Toong Seng Tan
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Weiwei Sun
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Maxime Bellefroid
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Tine Struyve
- HIV Cure Research Center, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michael Louella
- Community Advisory Board, Delaney AIDS Research Enterprise (DARE), San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Xu G Yu
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Mathias Lichterfeld
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Zhao J, Wang Q, Tan AF, Loh CJL, Toh HC. Sex differences in cancer and immunotherapy outcomes: the role of androgen receptor. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1416941. [PMID: 38863718 PMCID: PMC11165033 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1416941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Across the wide range of clinical conditions, there exists a sex imbalance where biological females are more prone to autoimmune diseases and males to some cancers. These discrepancies are the combinatory consequence of lifestyle and environmental factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and oncogenic viruses, as well as other intrinsic biological traits including sex chromosomes and sex hormones. While the emergence of immuno-oncology (I/O) has revolutionised cancer care, the efficacy across multiple cancers may be limited because of a complex, dynamic interplay between the tumour and its microenvironment (TME). Indeed, sex and gender can also influence the varying effectiveness of I/O. Androgen receptor (AR) plays an important role in tumorigenesis and in shaping the TME. Here, we lay out the epidemiological context of sex disparity in cancer and then review the current literature on how AR signalling contributes to such observation via altered tumour development and immunology. We offer insights into AR-mediated immunosuppressive mechanisms, with the hope of translating preclinical and clinical evidence in gender oncology into improved outcomes in personalised, I/O-based cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junzhe Zhao
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Qian Wang
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Medical Oncology Cancer Hospital of China Medical University/Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | | | - Celestine Jia Ling Loh
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Han Chong Toh
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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9
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Liu Q, Peng F, Liu H, Sun Q, Chen H, Xu X, Hu Z, Zhou X, Jin K, Xie J, Huang Y, Huang W, Yang Y. Overactivated MX1 Positive Natural Killer Cells Promote the Progression of Sepsis-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:3187-3200. [PMID: 38779429 PMCID: PMC11110828 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s460259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Natural killer (NK) cells are key regulators of immune defense in sepsis-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), yet the characteristics of NK cell clusters in ARDS remain poorly understood. Methods A prospective and observational study enrolled septic patients with ARDS or not was conducted to determine the percentage of NK cells via flow cytometry. The transcriptomes of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy controls, patients with sepsis only, and patients with sepsis-induced ARDS were profiled. Vitro experiments were performed to confirm the mechanism mediating MX1+NK cell infiltration. Results A total of 115 septic patients were analyzed, among whom 63 patients developed ARDS and 52 patients did not. Decreased NK percentages were found in sepsis with ARDS patients (%, 7.46±4.40 vs 11.65±6.88, P=0.0001) compared with sepsis-only patients. A lower percentage of NK cells showed a significant increase in 28-day mortality. Single-cell sequencing analysis revealed distinct characteristics of NK cells in sepsis-induced ARDS, notably the identification of a unique cluster defined as MX1+NK cells. Flow cytometry analysis showed an elevated percentage of MX1+NK cells specifically in individuals with sepsis-induced ARDS, compared with patients with sepsis only. Pseudo-time analysis showed that MX1+NK cells were characterized by upregulation of type I interferon-induced genes and other pro-inflammatory genes. MX1+NK cells can respond to type I interferons and secrete type I interferons themselves. Ligand-receptor interaction analysis also revealed extensive interaction between MX1+NK cells and T/B cells, leading to an uncontrolled inflammatory response in ARDS. Conclusion MX1+NK cells can respond to type I interferons and secrete type I interferons themselves, promoting the development of sepsis-induced ARDS. Interfering with the infiltration of MX1+NK cells could be a therapeutic approach for this disease. Due to the limited sample size, a larger sample size was needed for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingxiang Liu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Peng
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haitao Liu
- School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qin Sun
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Chen
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinyi Xu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zihan Hu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xing Zhou
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kai Jin
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianfeng Xie
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingzi Huang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Huang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Yang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, People’s Republic of China
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10
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Xiao T, Lee J, Gauntner TD, Velegraki M, Lathia JD, Li Z. Hallmarks of sex bias in immuno-oncology: mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:338-355. [PMID: 38589557 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00680-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Sex differences are present across multiple non-reproductive organ cancers, with male individuals generally experiencing higher incidence of cancer with poorer outcomes. Although some mechanisms underlying these differences are emerging, the immunological basis is not well understood. Observations from clinical trials also suggest a sex bias in conventional immunotherapies with male individuals experiencing a more favourable response and female individuals experiencing more severe adverse events to immune checkpoint blockade. In this Perspective article, we summarize the major biological hallmarks underlying sex bias in immuno-oncology. We focus on signalling from sex hormones and chromosome-encoded gene products, along with sex hormone-independent and chromosome-independent epigenetic mechanisms in tumour and immune cells such as myeloid cells and T cells. Finally, we highlight opportunities for future studies on sex differences that integrate sex hormones and chromosomes and other emerging cancer hallmarks such as ageing and the microbiome to provide a more comprehensive view of how sex differences underlie the response in cancer that can be leveraged for more effective immuno-oncology approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Xiao
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-The James, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Juyeun Lee
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Timothy D Gauntner
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-The James, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Maria Velegraki
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-The James, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Justin D Lathia
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumour Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Zihai Li
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-The James, Columbus, OH, USA.
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11
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Hermans L, O’Sullivan TE. No time to die: Epigenetic regulation of natural killer cell survival. Immunol Rev 2024; 323:61-79. [PMID: 38426615 PMCID: PMC11102341 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13314] [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: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
NK cells are short-lived innate lymphocytes that can mediate antigen-independent responses to infection and cancer. However, studies from the past two decades have shown that NK cells can acquire transcriptional and epigenetic modifications during inflammation that result in increased survival and lifespan. These findings blur the lines between the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system, and suggest that the homeostatic mechanisms that govern the persistence of innate immune cells are malleable. Indeed, recent studies have shown that NK cells undergo continuous and strictly regulated adaptations controlling their survival during development, tissue residency, and following inflammation. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the critical factors regulating NK cell survival throughout their lifespan, with a specific emphasis on the epigenetic modifications that regulate the survival of NK cells in various contexts. A precise understanding of the molecular mechanisms that govern NK cell survival will be important to enhance therapies for cancer and infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leen Hermans
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Timothy E. O’Sullivan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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12
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Li JH, Zhou A, Lee CD, Shah SN, Ji JH, Senthilkumar V, Padilla ET, Ball AB, Feng Q, Bustillos CG, Riggan L, Greige A, Divakaruni AS, Annese F, Cooley Coleman JA, Skinner SA, Cowan CW, O'Sullivan TE. MEF2C regulates NK cell effector functions through control of lipid metabolism. Nat Immunol 2024; 25:778-789. [PMID: 38589619 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-024-01811-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a critical first line of defense against viral infection. Rare mutations in a small subset of transcription factors can result in decreased NK cell numbers and function in humans, with an associated increased susceptibility to viral infection. However, our understanding of the specific transcription factors governing mature human NK cell function is limited. Here we use a non-viral CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screen targeting genes encoding 31 transcription factors differentially expressed during human NK cell development. We identify myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C) as a master regulator of human NK cell functionality ex vivo. MEF2C-haploinsufficient patients and mice displayed defects in NK cell development and effector function, with an increased susceptibility to viral infection. Mechanistically, MEF2C was required for an interleukin (IL)-2- and IL-15-mediated increase in lipid content through regulation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) pathways. Supplementation with oleic acid restored MEF2C-deficient and MEF2C-haploinsufficient patient NK cell cytotoxic function. Therefore, MEF2C is a critical orchestrator of NK cell antiviral immunity by regulating SREBP-mediated lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joey H Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Adalia Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cassidy D Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Siya N Shah
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jeong Hyun Ji
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vignesh Senthilkumar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eddie T Padilla
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andréa B Ball
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Qinyan Feng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christian G Bustillos
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Luke Riggan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alain Greige
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Ajit S Divakaruni
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Fran Annese
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC, USA
| | | | | | - Christopher W Cowan
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Timothy E O'Sullivan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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13
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Meng G, Pan Y, Tang W, Zhang L, Cui Y, Schumacher FR, Wang M, Wang R, He S, Krischer J, Li Q, Feng H. imply: improving cell-type deconvolution accuracy using personalized reference profiles. Genome Med 2024; 16:65. [PMID: 38685057 PMCID: PMC11057104 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-024-01338-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Using computational tools, bulk transcriptomics can be deconvoluted to estimate the abundance of constituent cell types. However, existing deconvolution methods are conditioned on the assumption that the whole study population is served by a single reference panel, ignoring person-to-person heterogeneity. Here, we present imply, a novel algorithm to deconvolute cell type proportions using personalized reference panels. Simulation studies demonstrate reduced bias compared with existing methods. Real data analyses on longitudinal consortia show disparities in cell type proportions are associated with several disease phenotypes in Type 1 diabetes and Parkinson's disease. imply is available through the R/Bioconductor package ISLET at https://bioconductor.org/packages/ISLET/ .
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanqun Meng
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Yue Pan
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, 38105, TN, USA
| | - Wen Tang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Lijun Zhang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Ying Cui
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Stanford, 94305, CA, USA
| | - Fredrick R Schumacher
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Sijia He
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 48109, MI, USA
| | - Jeffrey Krischer
- Health Informatics Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, 38105, FL, USA
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, 38105, TN, USA.
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA.
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14
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Ontawong A, Pengnet S, Thim-Uam A, Munkong N, Narkprasom N, Narkprasom K, Kuntakhut K, Kamkeaw N, Amornlerdpison D. A randomized controlled clinical trial examining the effects of Cordyceps militaris beverage on the immune response in healthy adults. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7994. [PMID: 38580687 PMCID: PMC10997757 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58742-z] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cordyceps militaris (L.) Link (C. militaris) contains various beneficial substances, including polysaccharides (galactomannan), nucleotides (adenosine and cordycepin), cordycepic acid, amino acids, and sterols (ergosterol and beta-sitosterol). It also contains other essential nutrients, such as protein, vitamins (E, K, B1, B2, and B12), and minerals (potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and selenium). Due to the numerous health benefits of supplements and products containing C. militaris extract, their popularity has increased. However, the immunostimulant effect of C. militaris remains unclear. Therefore, this study developed a functional beverage from the submerged fermentation of C. militaris (FCM) and aimed to investigate the potential of FCM in healthy male and female volunteers in Phayao Province, Thailand. This study provides essential information for the development of healthy drink products. Healthy men and women were provided either FCM containing 2.85 mg of cordycepin or placebo for 8 weeks (n = 10 for each gender). The immune cell markers, immunoglobulins, and safety parameters were assessed initially at baseline and at 4 and 8 weeks. The NK cell activity markedly increased in the male FCM group from baseline (p = 0.049) to 4 weeks after receiving FCM. Compared with those in the placebo group, the NK activity in women who received FCM for 8 weeks significantly increased (p = 0.023) from baseline. Within-group analysis revealed that the IL-1β levels were markedly reduced in the male FCM group (p = 0.049). Furthermore, the IL-6 levels decreased from baseline in the female FCM group (p = 0.047). The blood sugar, lipid, and safety indices were not different between the experimental groups. FCM can potentially be developed as an immune-boosting supplement without liver, kidney, or blood component toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atcharaporn Ontawong
- Division of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, 56000, Thailand
| | - Sirinat Pengnet
- Division of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, 56000, Thailand
| | - Arthid Thim-Uam
- Division of Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, 56000, Thailand
| | - Narongsuk Munkong
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Phayao, Phayao, 56000, Thailand
| | - Nukrob Narkprasom
- Division of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Agro-Industry, Maejo University, Chiang Mai, 50290, Thailand
| | - Kanjana Narkprasom
- Division of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Agro-Industry, Maejo University, Chiang Mai, 50290, Thailand
| | - Kullanat Kuntakhut
- Center of Excellence in Agricultural Innovation for Graduate Entrepreneur, Maejo University, Chiang Mai, 50290, Thailand
| | - Natakorn Kamkeaw
- Division of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, 56000, Thailand
| | - Doungporn Amornlerdpison
- Center of Excellence in Agricultural Innovation for Graduate Entrepreneur, Maejo University, Chiang Mai, 50290, Thailand.
- Faculty of Fisheries Technology and Aquatic Resources, Maejo University, Chiang Mai, 50290, Thailand.
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15
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Cheng MI, Hong L, Bustillos C, Chen B, Chin S, Luthers CR, Vo A, Sheikh SZ, Su MA. Cutting Edge: Hypoxia Sensing by the Histone Demethylase UTX (KDM6A) Limits Colitogenic CD4+ T Cells in Mucosal Inflammation. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:1069-1074. [PMID: 38353647 PMCID: PMC10948288 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Hypoxia is a hallmark of inflammatory conditions (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]), and adaptive responses have consequently evolved to protect against hypoxia-associated tissue injury. Because augmenting hypoxia-induced protective responses is a promising therapeutic approach for IBD, a more complete understanding of these pathways is needed. Recent work has demonstrated that the histone demethylase UTX is oxygen-sensitive, but its role in IBD is unclear. In this study, we show that hypoxia-induced deactivation of UTX downregulates T cell responses in mucosal inflammation. Hypoxia results in decreased T cell proinflammatory cytokine production and increased immunosuppressive regulatory T cells, and these findings are recapitulated by UTX deficiency. Hypoxia leads to T cell accumulation of H3K27me3 histone modifications, suggesting that hypoxia impairs UTX's histone demethylase activity to dampen T cell colitogenic activity. Finally, T cell-specific UTX deletion ameliorates colonic inflammation in an IBD mouse model, implicating UTX's oxygen-sensitive demethylase activity in counteracting hypoxic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy I. Cheng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Lee Hong
- Division of Hematology and Oncology at Translational Science Research Institute, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, 92037
| | - Christian Bustillos
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Bryan Chen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Scott Chin
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Christopher R. Luthers
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Au Vo
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Shehzad Z. Sheikh
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease, UNC Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Maureen A. Su
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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16
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Shobab L, Zheng H, Jensen K, Mendonca-Torres MC, McCoy M, Hoperia V, Rosen J, Wartofsky L, Burman K, Vasko V. Sex-Specific Expression of Histone Lysine Demethylases (KDMs) in Thyroid Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1260. [PMID: 38610938 PMCID: PMC11010840 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071260] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of thyroid cancer in women is 3-4-fold higher than in men. To characterize sex-specific molecular alterations in thyroid cancer, we examined the expression of sex-biased genes in normal thyroids and thyroid tumors. METHODS Ingenuity pathways analysis was used to define sex-biased gene networks using data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Confirmatory studies were performed through the analysis of histone lysine demethylases (KDMs) expression by real-time PCR and immunostaining. RESULTS In normal thyroids, 44 sex-biased genes were comparatively upregulated in male and 28 in female patients. The expressions of 37/72 (51%) sex-biased genes were affected in cancer tissues compared with normal thyroids. Gene network analyses revealed sex-specific patterns in the expressions of KDM5C, KDM5D, and KDM6A. In confirmatory studies, KDM5D mRNA and protein were detected only in males, whereas KDM5C and KDM6A were detected in samples from male and female patients. Nuclear staining with anti-KDMs was found in normal thyroids, but a loss of nuclear expression with a concomitant gain of cytoplasmic staining was observed in cancer tissues. CONCLUSIONS Normal thyroids have a sex-specific molecular signature, and the development of thyroid cancer is associated with a differential expression of sex-biased genes. The sex-specific expression of KDMs, coupled with cancer-related alterations in their intracellular localization, may contribute to mechanisms underlying sex differences in thyroid tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Shobab
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Surgery, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA; (H.Z.)
| | - Kirk Jensen
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA; (K.J.); (V.V.)
| | - Maria Cecilia Mendonca-Torres
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA; (K.J.); (V.V.)
| | - Matthew McCoy
- Innovation Center for Biomedical Informatics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Victoria Hoperia
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Kyiv National University, 02000 Kyiv, Ukraine;
| | - Jennifer Rosen
- Department of Surgery, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA; (H.Z.)
| | - Leonard Wartofsky
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Kenneth Burman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Vasyl Vasko
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA; (K.J.); (V.V.)
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17
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Amato-Menker CJ, Hopen Q, Pettit A, Gandhi J, Hu G, Schafer R, Franko J. XX sex chromosome complement modulates immune responses to heat-killed Streptococcus pneumoniae immunization in a microbiome-dependent manner. Biol Sex Differ 2024; 15:21. [PMID: 38486287 PMCID: PMC10938708 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00597-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differences in male vs. female immune responses are well-documented and have significant clinical implications. While the immunomodulatory effects of sex hormones are well established, the contributions of sex chromosome complement (XX vs. XY) and gut microbiome diversity on immune sexual dimorphisms have only recently become appreciated. Here we investigate the individual and collaborative influences of sex chromosome complements and gut microbiota on humoral immune activation. METHODS Male and female Four Core Genotype (FCG) mice were immunized with heat-killed Streptococcus pneumoniae (HKSP). Humoral immune responses were assessed, and X-linked immune-related gene expression was evaluated to explain the identified XX-dependent phenotype. The functional role of Kdm6a, an X-linked epigenetic regulatory gene of interest, was evaluated ex vivo using mitogen stimulation of B cells. Additional influences of the gut microbiome on sex chromosome-dependent B cell activation was also evaluated by antibiotically depleting gut microbiota prior to HKSP immunization. Reconstitution of the depleted microbiome with short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria tested the impact of SCFAs on XX-dependent immune activation. RESULTS XX mice exhibited higher HKSP-specific IgM-secreting B cells and plasma cell frequencies than XY mice, regardless of gonadal sex. Although Kdm6a was identified as an X-linked gene overexpressed in XX B cells, inhibition of its enzymatic activity did not affect mitogen-induced plasma cell differentiation or antibody production in a sex chromosome-dependent manner ex vivo. Enhanced humoral responses in XX vs. XY immunized FCG mice were eliminated after microbiome depletion, indicating that the microbiome contributes to the identified XX-dependent immune enhancement. Reconstituting microbiota-depleted mice with select SCFA-producing bacteria enhanced fecal SCFA concentrations and increased humoral responses in XX, but not XY, FCG mice. However, exposure to the SCFA propionate alone did not enhance mitogenic B cell stimulation in ex vivo studies. CONCLUSIONS FCG mice have been used to assess sex hormone and sex chromosome complement influences on various sexually dimorphic traits. The current study indicates that the gut microbiome impacts humoral responses in an XX-dependent manner, suggesting that the collaborative influence of gut bacteria and other sex-specific factors should be considered when interpreting data aimed at delineating the mechanisms that promote sexual dimorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly J Amato-Menker
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Department of Research, West Virginia University School of Dentistry, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Quinn Hopen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Department of Research, West Virginia University School of Dentistry, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Andrea Pettit
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jasleen Gandhi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gangqing Hu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Rosana Schafer
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jennifer Franko
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA.
- Department of Research, West Virginia University School of Dentistry, Morgantown, WV, USA.
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18
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Cui J, Zhao M, Liu W, Hong M, Qian S, Sun Q. Effect of low skeletal muscle mass on NK cells in patients with acute myeloid leukemia and its correlation with prognosis. Ann Hematol 2024; 103:771-780. [PMID: 38294533 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-024-05645-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to analyze the correlation between skeletal muscle mass and the distribution of peripheral blood lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells, as well as their impact on prognosis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A retrospective analysis was conducted on 211 newly diagnosed AML patients, evaluating skeletal muscle index (SMI), NK cell proportion, and absolute value, along with relevant clinical data. Linear regression and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used to assess the relationship between various indicators and SMI, followed by multiple linear regression for further modeling. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to identify independent predictors for overall survival (OS). Among the 211 AML patients, 38 cases (18.0%) were diagnosed with sarcopenia. Multiple linear regression analysis included weight, fat mass, ECOG score, body mass index, and peripheral blood NK cell proportion, constructing a correlation model for SMI (R2 = 0.745). Univariate analysis identified higher NK cell count (> 9.53 × 106/L) as a poor predictor for OS. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model indicated that age ≥ 60 years, PLT < 100 × 109/L, ELN high risk, sarcopenia, and B cell count > 94.6 × 106/L were independent adverse prognostic factors for AML patients. Low skeletal muscle mass may negatively impact the count and function of NK cells, thereby affecting the prognosis of AML. However, further basic and clinical research is needed to explore the specific mechanisms underlying the relationship between NK cells and SMI in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialin Cui
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Miaomiao Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenjie Liu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Ming Hong
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Sixuan Qian
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, China.
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19
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Sakkas LI, Chikanza IC. Sex bias in immune response: it is time to include the sex variable in studies of autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Rheumatol Int 2024; 44:203-209. [PMID: 37716925 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-023-05446-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Healthy females and males differ in their immune cell composition and function and females generally mount stronger immune response than males and are much more susceptible to autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Females differ from males in sex hormones, and X-chromosome genes. Sex hormones affect immune cells and responses, and may induce epigenetic DNA changes. The importance of X-chromosome genes is exemplified in men with the Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY) who have an additional X-chromosome and develop systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) as frequently as women. X-chromosome contains genes critical for the immune response, such as FOXP3, toll-like receptor(TLR)7, TLR8, CD40 Ligand, IL2RG, IL9R, BTK, and others. Whereas one X-chromosome in females is randomly inactivated early in embryonic development, around 25% of X-linked genes escape inactivation and result in more X-linked gene dosage in females. We use two key female-biased autoimmune rheumatic diseases, SLE and systemic sclerosis, to review differences in immune response, and clinical manifestations between females and males. The inclusion of sex variable in research will facilitate precision medicine and optimal patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lazaros I Sakkas
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
- Division of Rheumatology, IASO Thessalias General Hospital, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Ian C Chikanza
- Professor in Rheumatology and Immunology, Paediatrics Department, Catholic University, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- International Arthritis and Hypermobility Centre, Harley Street Clinic, London, UK
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20
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Karmakar S, Mishra A, Pal P, Lal G. Effector and cytolytic function of natural killer cells in anticancer immunity. J Leukoc Biol 2024; 115:235-252. [PMID: 37818891 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiad126] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Adaptive immune cells play an important role in mounting antigen-specific antitumor immunity. The contribution of innate immune cells such as monocytes, macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells, and gamma-delta T cells is well studied in cancer immunology. NK cells are innate lymphoid cells that show effector and regulatory function in a contact-dependent and contact-independent manner. The cytotoxic function of NK cells plays an important role in killing the infected and transformed host cells and controlling infection and tumor growth. However, several studies have also ascribed the role of NK cells in inducing pathophysiology in autoimmune diseases, promoting immune tolerance in the uterus, and antitumor function in the tumor microenvironment. We discuss the fundamentals of NK cell biology, its distribution in different organs, cellular and molecular interactions, and its cytotoxic and noncytotoxic functions in cancer biology. We also highlight the use of NK cell-based adoptive cellular therapy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surojit Karmakar
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Tolerance, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, MH-411007, India
| | - Amrita Mishra
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Tolerance, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, MH-411007, India
| | - Pradipta Pal
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Tolerance, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, MH-411007, India
| | - Girdhari Lal
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Tolerance, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, MH-411007, India
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21
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Dunn SE, Perry WA, Klein SL. Mechanisms and consequences of sex differences in immune responses. Nat Rev Nephrol 2024; 20:37-55. [PMID: 37993681 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00787-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Biological sex differences refer to differences between males and females caused by the sex chromosome complement (that is, XY or XX), reproductive tissues (that is, the presence of testes or ovaries), and concentrations of sex steroids (that is, testosterone or oestrogens and progesterone). Although these sex differences are binary for most human individuals and mice, transgender individuals receiving hormone therapy, individuals with genetic syndromes (for example, Klinefelter and Turner syndromes) and people with disorders of sexual development reflect the diversity in sex-based biology. The broad distribution of sex steroid hormone receptors across diverse cell types and the differential expression of X-linked and autosomal genes means that sex is a biological variable that can affect the function of all physiological systems, including the immune system. Sex differences in immune cell function and immune responses to foreign and self antigens affect the development and outcome of diverse diseases and immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon E Dunn
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Whitney A Perry
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sabra L Klein
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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22
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Poma AM, Basolo A, Alì G, Bonuccelli D, Di Stefano I, Conti M, Mazzetti P, Sparavelli R, Vignali P, Macerola E, Pistello M, Santini F, Basolo F, Toniolo A. SARS-CoV-2 spread to endocrine organs is associated with obesity: an autopsy study of COVID-19 cases. Endocrine 2024; 83:110-117. [PMID: 37698811 PMCID: PMC10806201 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-023-03518-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE SARS-CoV-2 infection may be limited to the respiratory tract or may spread to multiple organs. Besides disease severity, factors associated with virus spread within the host are elusive. Here, we tried to identify features associated with SARS-CoV-2 spread to endocrine organs. METHODS In a retrospective autoptic cohort of 51 subjects who died because of COVID-19, we analyzed the severity and type of lung pathology, patients' features and the detection of virus in thyroid, testis, adrenal gland, pancreas, anterior pituitary, and the white adipose tissue (WAT). RESULTS The SARS-CoV-2 genome was detected in endocrine organs of 30/51 cases. The anterior pituitary and WAT were most frequently positive for virus. While pathological features of lung were not associated with the presence of virus in endocrine organs, obesity (BMI > 30) was significantly associated to virus detection in pancreas (p = 0.01) and thyroid (p = 0.04). WAT infection was detected more frequently in males (p = 0.03). CONCLUSION In subject with obesity dying of COVID-19, the virus frequently spreads to endocrine organs. The findings emphasize the need for optimal treatment of patients with obesity at the very onset of COVID-19. Since post-COVID conditions remain a major issue worldwide, a rigorous follow-up of endocrine function-especially of thyroid and pancreas-is advocated in subjects with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anello Marcello Poma
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessio Basolo
- Obesity and Lipodystrophy Center, Endocrinology Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Greta Alì
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Diana Bonuccelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Azienda USL Toscana Nordovest, Lucca, Italy
| | - Iosè Di Stefano
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Conti
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Azienda USL Toscana Nordovest, Lucca, Italy
| | - Paola Mazzetti
- Retrovirus Center and Virology Section, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rebecca Sparavelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Vignali
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Macerola
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mauro Pistello
- Retrovirus Center and Virology Section, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Santini
- Obesity and Lipodystrophy Center, Endocrinology Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fulvio Basolo
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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23
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Pujantell M, Skenteris NT, Claussen JM, Grünhagel B, Thiele RJ, Altfeld M. Sex-dependent differences in type I IFN-induced natural killer cell activation. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1277967. [PMID: 38162640 PMCID: PMC10757368 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1277967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are important antiviral effector cells and also involved in tumor clearance. NK cells express IFNAR, rendering them responsive to Type I IFNs. To evaluate Type I IFN-mediated modulation of NK cell functions, individual Type I IFNs subtypes were assessed for their ability to activate NK cells. Different Type I IFN subtypes displayed a broad range in the capacity to induce and modulate NK cell activation and degranulation, measured by CD69 and CD107a expression in response to leukemia cell line K562. When including biological sex as a variable in the analysis, transwell co-cultures of NK cells with either male- or female-derived PBMCs or pDCs stimulated with the TLR7/8 agonist CL097 showed that NK cells were more activated by CL097-stimulated cells derived from females. These sex-specific differences were linked to higher CL097-induced IFNα production by pDCs derived from females, indicating an extrinsic sex-specific effect of Type I IFNs on NK cell function. Interestingly, in addition to the extrinsic effect, we also observed NK cell-intrinsic sex differences, as female NK cells displayed higher activation levels after IFNα-stimulation and after co-culture with CL097-stimulated pDCs, suggesting higher activation of IFNα-signaling transduction in female NK cells. Taken together, the results from these studies identify both extrinsic and intrinsic sex-specific differences in Type I IFN-dependent NK cell functions, contributing to a better understanding of sex-specific differences in innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pujantell
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Benjamin Grünhagel
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rebecca-Jo Thiele
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Altfeld
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
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24
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Hoffmann JP, Liu JA, Seddu K, Klein SL. Sex hormone signaling and regulation of immune function. Immunity 2023; 56:2472-2491. [PMID: 37967530 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Immune responses to antigens, including innocuous, self, tumor, microbial, and vaccine antigens, differ between males and females. The quest to uncover the mechanisms for biological sex differences in the immune system has intensified, with considerable literature pointing toward sex hormonal influences on immune cell function. Sex steroids, including estrogens, androgens, and progestins, have profound effects on immune function. As such, drastic changes in sex steroid concentrations that occur with aging (e.g., after puberty or during the menopause transition) or pregnancy impact immune responses and the pathogenesis of immune-related diseases. The effect of sex steroids on immunity involves both the concentration of the ligand and the density and distribution of genomic and nongenomic receptors that serve as transcriptional regulators of immune cellular responses to affect autoimmunity, allergy, infectious diseases, cancers, and responses to vaccines. The next frontier will be harnessing these effects of sex steroids to improve therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Hoffmann
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jennifer A Liu
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kumba Seddu
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sabra L Klein
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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25
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Amato-Menker C, Hopen Q, Pettit A, Gandhi J, Hu G, Schafer R, Franko J. XX sex chromosome complement modulates immune responses to heat-killed Streptococcus pneumoniae immunization in a microbiome-dependent manner. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3429829. [PMID: 37961596 PMCID: PMC10635377 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3429829/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Background Differences in male vs. female immune responses are well-documented and have significant clinical implications. While the immunomodulatory effects of sex hormones are well established, the contributions of sex chromosome complement (XX vs. XY) and gut microbiome diversity on immune sexual dimorphisms have only recently become appreciated. Here we investigate the individual and collaborative influences of sex chromosome complements and gut microbiome bacteria on humoral immune activation. Methods Sham-operated and gonadectomized male and female Four Core Genotype (FCG) mice were immunized with heat-killed Streptococcus pneumoniae (HKSP). Humoral immune responses were assessed, and X-linked immune-related gene expression was evaluated to explain the identified XX-dependent phenotypes. Ex vivo studies investigated the functional role of Kdm6a, an X-linked epigenetic regulatory gene of interest, in mitogenic B cell activation. Additionally, we examined whether gut microbiome communities, or their metabolites, differentially influence immune cell activation in a sex chromosome-dependent manner. Endogenous gut microbiomes were antibiotically depleted and reconstituted with select short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria prior to HKSP immunization and immune responses assessed. Results XX mice exhibited higher HKSP-specific IgM-secreting B cells and plasma cell frequencies than XY mice, regardless of gonadal sex. Although Kdm6a was identified as an X-linked gene overexpressed in XX B cells, inhibition of its enzymatic activity did not affect mitogen-induced plasma cell differentiation or antibody production in a sex chromosome-dependent manner ex vivo. Enhanced humoral responses in XX vs. XY immunized FCG mice were eliminated after microbiome depletion, indicating that the microbiome contributes to the identified XX-dependent immune enhancement. Reconstituting microbiota-depleted mice with select SCFA-producing bacteria increased humoral responses in XX, but not XY, FCG mice. This XX-dependent enhancement appears to be independent of SCFA production in males, while female XX-dependent responses relied on SCFAs. Conclusions FCG mice have been used to assess the influence of sex hormones and sex chromosome complements on various sexually dimorphic traits. The current study indicates that the gut microbiome impacts humoral responses in an XX-dependent manner, suggesting that the collaborative influence of gut bacteria and other sex-specific factors should be considered when interpreting data aimed at delineating the mechanisms that promote sexual dimorphism.
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26
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Xiao Y, Schroeter A, Martin F, Matsunaga T, Nakamori K, Roesel MJ, Habal M, Chong AS, Zhou H, Tullius SG. Sex as a biological variable: Mechanistic insights and clinical relevance in solid organ transplantation. Am J Transplant 2023; 23:1661-1672. [PMID: 37543092 PMCID: PMC10838351 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2023.07.022] [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: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Biological sex affects immunity broadly, with recognized effects on the incidence and severity of autoimmune diseases, infections, and malignancies. Consequences of sex on alloimmunity and outcomes in solid organ transplantation are less well defined. Clinical studies have shown that donor and recipient sex independently impact transplant outcomes, which are further modified by aging. Potential mechanisms have thus far not been detailed and may include hormonal, genetic, and epigenetic components. Here, we summarize relevant findings in immunity in addition to studies in clinical and experimental organ transplantation detailing the effects of biological sex on alloimmunity. Understanding both clinical impact and mechanisms is expected to provide critical insights on the complexity of alloimmune responses, with the potential to fine-tune treatment and allocation while providing a rationale to include both sexes in transplant research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Xiao
- Division of Transplant Surgery and Transplant Surgery Research Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andreas Schroeter
- Division of Transplant Surgery and Transplant Surgery Research Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Regenerative Medicine and Experimental Surgery, Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Friederike Martin
- Division of Transplant Surgery and Transplant Surgery Research Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Surgery, CVK/CCM, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tomohisa Matsunaga
- Division of Transplant Surgery and Transplant Surgery Research Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Urology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keita Nakamori
- Division of Transplant Surgery and Transplant Surgery Research Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Urology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Maximilian J Roesel
- Division of Transplant Surgery and Transplant Surgery Research Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Marlena Habal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Anita S Chong
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Hao Zhou
- Division of Transplant Surgery and Transplant Surgery Research Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stefan G Tullius
- Division of Transplant Surgery and Transplant Surgery Research Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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27
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Fazazi MR, Ruda GF, Brennan PE, Rangachari M. The X-linked histone demethylases KDM5C and KDM6A as regulators of T cell-driven autoimmunity in the central nervous system. Brain Res Bull 2023; 202:110748. [PMID: 37657612 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
T cell-driven autoimmune responses are subject to striking sex-dependent effects. While the contributions of sex hormones are well-understood, those of sex chromosomes are meeting with increased appreciation. Here, we outline what is known about the contribution of sex chromosome-linked factors to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model that recapitulates many of the T cell-driven mechanisms of multiple sclerosis (MS) pathology. Particular attention is paid to the KDM family of histone demethylases, several of which - KDM5C, KDM5D and KDM6A - are sex chromosome encoded. Finally, we provide evidence that functional inhibition of KDM5 molecules can suppress interferon (IFN)γ production from murine male effector T cells, and that an increased ratio of inflammatory Kdm6a to immunomodulatory Kdm5c transcript is observed in T helper 17 (Th17) cells from women with the autoimmune disorder ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Histone lysine demethlyases thus represent intriguing targets for the treatment of T cell-driven autoimmune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Reda Fazazi
- axe Neurosciences, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Gian Filippo Ruda
- Centre for Medicines Discovery and NIHR, Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Paul E Brennan
- Centre for Medicines Discovery and NIHR, Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK; Alzheimer's Research UK, Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Manu Rangachari
- axe Neurosciences, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; Département de médecine moléculaire, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
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28
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Meng G, Pan Y, Tang W, Zhang L, Cui Y, Schumacher FR, Wang M, Wang R, He S, Krischer J, Li Q, Feng H. imply: improving cell-type deconvolution accuracy using personalized reference profiles. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.27.559579. [PMID: 37808714 PMCID: PMC10557724 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.27.559579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Real-world clinical samples are often admixtures of signal mosaics from multiple pure cell types. Using computational tools, bulk transcriptomics can be deconvoluted to solve for the abundance of constituent cell types. However, existing deconvolution methods are conditioned on the assumption that the whole study population is served by a single reference panel, which ignores person-to-person heterogeneity. Here we present imply, a novel algorithm to deconvolute cell type proportions using personalized reference panels. imply can borrow information across repeatedly measured samples for each subject, and obtain precise cell type proportion estimations. Simulation studies demonstrate reduced bias in cell type abundance estimation compared with existing methods. Real data analyses on large longitudinal consortia show more realistic deconvolution results that align with biological facts. Our results suggest that disparities in cell type proportions are associated with several disease phenotypes in type 1 diabetes and Parkinson's disease. Our proposed tool imply is available through the R/Bioconductor package ISLET at https://bioconductor.org/packages/ISLET/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanqun Meng
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Yue Pan
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, 38105, TN, USA
| | - Wen Tang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Lijun Zhang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Ying Cui
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Stanford, 94305, CA, USA
| | - Fredrick R. Schumacher
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
| | - Sijia He
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 48109, MI, USA
| | - Jeffrey Krischer
- Health Informatics Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, 38105, FL, USA
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, 38105, TN, USA
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, 44106, OH, USA
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29
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Lee J, Nicosia M, Hong ES, Silver DJ, Li C, Bayik D, Watson DC, Lauko A, Kay KE, Wang SZ, Johnson S, McGraw M, Grabowski MM, Kish DD, Desai AB, Goodman WA, Cameron SJ, Okada H, Valujskikh A, Fairchild RL, Ahluwalia MS, Lathia JD. Sex-Biased T-cell Exhaustion Drives Differential Immune Responses in Glioblastoma. Cancer Discov 2023; 13:2090-2105. [PMID: 37378557 PMCID: PMC10481130 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-22-0869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences in glioblastoma (GBM) incidence and outcome are well recognized, and emerging evidence suggests that these extend to genetic/epigenetic and cellular differences, including immune responses. However, the mechanisms driving immunologic sex differences are not fully understood. Here, we demonstrate that T cells play a critical role in driving GBM sex differences. Male mice exhibited accelerated tumor growth, with decreased frequency and increased exhaustion of CD8+ T cells in the tumor. Furthermore, a higher frequency of progenitor exhausted T cells was found in males, with improved responsiveness to anti-PD-1 treatment. Moreover, increased T-cell exhaustion was observed in male GBM patients. Bone marrow chimera and adoptive transfer models indicated that T cell-mediated tumor control was predominantly regulated in a cell-intrinsic manner, partially mediated by the X chromosome inactivation escape gene Kdm6a. These findings demonstrate that sex-biased predetermined behavior of T cells is critical for inducing sex differences in GBM progression and immunotherapy response. SIGNIFICANCE Immunotherapies in patients with GBM have been unsuccessful due to a variety of factors, including the highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in GBM. This study demonstrates that sex-biased T-cell behaviors are predominantly intrinsically regulated, further suggesting sex-specific approaches can be leveraged to potentially improve the therapeutic efficacy of immunotherapy in GBM. See related commentary by Alspach, p. 1966. This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 1949.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juyeun Lee
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Michael Nicosia
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Ellen S. Hong
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Ohio
| | - Daniel J. Silver
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Cathy Li
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Defne Bayik
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Dionysios C. Watson
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Hematology/Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Adam Lauko
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Ohio
| | - Kristen E. Kay
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Sabrina Z. Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Ohio
| | - Sadie Johnson
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Mary McGraw
- Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Danielle D. Kish
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Amar B. Desai
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Wendy A. Goodman
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Scott J. Cameron
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Hideho Okada
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, California
| | - Anna Valujskikh
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Robert L. Fairchild
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Justin D. Lathia
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio
- Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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30
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Purcell RA, Theisen RM, Arnold KB, Chung AW, Selva KJ. Polyfunctional antibodies: a path towards precision vaccines for vulnerable populations. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1183727. [PMID: 37600816 PMCID: PMC10433199 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1183727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccine efficacy determined within the controlled environment of a clinical trial is usually substantially greater than real-world vaccine effectiveness. Typically, this results from reduced protection of immunologically vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly individuals and people with chronic comorbidities. Consequently, these high-risk groups are frequently recommended tailored immunisation schedules to boost responses. In addition, diverse groups of healthy adults may also be variably protected by the same vaccine regimen. Current population-based vaccination strategies that consider basic clinical parameters offer a glimpse into what may be achievable if more nuanced aspects of the immune response are considered in vaccine design. To date, vaccine development has been largely empirical. However, next-generation approaches require more rational strategies. We foresee a generation of precision vaccines that consider the mechanistic basis of vaccine response variations associated with both immunogenetic and baseline health differences. Recent efforts have highlighted the importance of balanced and diverse extra-neutralising antibody functions for vaccine-induced protection. However, in immunologically vulnerable populations, significant modulation of polyfunctional antibody responses that mediate both neutralisation and effector functions has been observed. Here, we review the current understanding of key genetic and inflammatory modulators of antibody polyfunctionality that affect vaccination outcomes and consider how this knowledge may be harnessed to tailor vaccine design for improved public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth A. Purcell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert M. Theisen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kelly B. Arnold
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Amy W. Chung
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kevin J. Selva
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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31
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Aguilar OA. X chromosome enhances NK cell responses. Trends Genet 2023:S0168-9525(23)00126-9. [PMID: 37295976 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Incomplete X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) can cause differences between sexes. Cheng et al. identified that the histone demethylase UTX, encoded by an X chromosome gene that escapes XCI, contributes to sex differences in natural killer (NK) cells, whereby males have increased NK cell numbers while female NK cells have enhanced responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar A Aguilar
- Dept. of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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32
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Galaras A, Verykokakis M. UT(se)X differences during immune responses. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:738-740. [PMID: 36997671 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01481-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Galaras
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Vari, Greece
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Mihalis Verykokakis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Vari, Greece.
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