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Samarpita S, Srivastava S, Srikanth M, Miriam Jose A, Rithvik A, Rasool M. IL-17A/IL-17RA interaction blockade sensitizes synovial macrophages to efferocytosis and PD-L1 signaling via rewiring STAT-3/ADAM17/MERTK axis in rheumatoid arthritis animal model. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 136:112343. [PMID: 38810305 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Defective clearance of apoptotic cells due to impaired efferocytosis sustains error in self-tolerance that exacerbates rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the molecular determinant that directly or specifically impairs efferocytosis in RA is not yet studied. We identified a new perspective that IL-17A significantly impedes efferocytosis via preferential activation of the JAK/STAT-3/ADAM17 signaling axis. In contrast, disruption of the IL-17A/IL-17RA interaction using cyanidin or silencing of IL-17RA obstructed JAK/STAT-3 activation that further abolished ADAM17 expression. Subsequent depletion of ADAM17 inhibited the shedding of Mer tyrosine kinase receptor (MERTK), which significantly increased apoptotic cell intake and restored efferocytosis in adjuvant-induced arthritic (AA) model. Concomitantly, the amplification of the efferocytosis process due to IL-17A/IL-17RA interaction disruption was sensitive to mitochondrial fission mediated via Drp-1 phosphorylation downstream of STAT-3 inhibition. As expected, cyanidin treated AA synovial macrophages that exhibited increased efferocytosis demonstrated a phenotypic shift towards CD163 anti-inflammatory phenotype in a STAT-5 dependent manner. Similar results were obtained in IL-17A-sensitized AA synovial macrophages treated with S3I-201 (a STAT-3 inhibitor) indicating that IL-17A influences efferocytosis via the STAT-3 pathway. In view of our previous work where cyanidin restored Th17/Treg balance, our present investigation fulfils a critical gap by providing scientific validation that cyanidin escalated PD-L1 expression during the efferocytosis process that could have impacted the restoration of Th17/Treg balance in an AA model. Together, these data corroborate the hypothesis that IL-17A signaling can impair efferocytosis via regulating STAT-3/ADAM17/FL-MERTK axis and that its inhibition can amplify a pro-resolution signal against RA progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snigdha Samarpita
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India; Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Susmita Srivastava
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Manupati Srikanth
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ann Miriam Jose
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Arulkumaran Rithvik
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mahaboobkhan Rasool
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Pignatti E, Maccaferri M, Pisciotta A, Carnevale G, Salvarani C. A comprehensive review on the role of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:463-484. [PMID: 38163928 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2299729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease with systemic manifestations. Although the success of immune modulatory drug therapy is considerable, about 40% of patients do not respond to treatment. Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) have been demonstrated to have therapeutic potential for inflammatory diseases. AREAS COVERED This review provides an update on RA disease and on pre-clinical and clinical studies using MSCs from bone marrow, umbilical cord, adipose tissue, and dental pulp, to regulate the immune response. Moreover, the clinical use, safety, limitations, and future perspective of MSCs in RA are discussed. Using the PubMed database and ClincalTrials.gov, peer-reviewed full-text papers, abstracts and clinical trials were identified from 1985 through to April 2023. EXPERT OPINION MSCs demonstrated a satisfactory safety profile and potential for clinical efficacy. However, it is mandatory to deepen the investigations on how MSCs affect the proinflammatory deregulated RA patients' cells. MSCs are potentially good candidates for severe RA patients not responding to conventional therapies but a long-term follow-up after stem cells treatment and standardized protocols are needed. Future research should focus on well-designed multicenter randomized clinical trials with adequate sample sizes and properly selected patients satisfying RA criteria for a valid efficacy evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Pignatti
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Monia Maccaferri
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pisciotta
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Gianluca Carnevale
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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3
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Chen Y, Teng Y, Xu P, Wang S. The Role of Citrullination Modification in CD4 + T Cells in the Pathogenesis of Immune-Related Diseases. Biomolecules 2024; 14:400. [PMID: 38672418 PMCID: PMC11047979 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040400] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins play a crucial role in increasing the functional diversity of proteins and are associated with the pathogenesis of various diseases. This review focuses on a less explored PTM called citrullination, which involves the conversion of arginine to citrulline. This process is catalyzed by peptidyl arginine deiminases (PADs). Different members of the PAD family have distinct tissue distribution patterns and functions. Citrullination is a post-translational modification of native proteins that can alter their structure and convert them into autoantigens; thus, it mediates the occurrence of autoimmune diseases. CD4+ T cells, including Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells, are important immune cells involved in mediating autoimmune diseases, allergic reactions, and tumor immunity. PADs can induce citrullination in CD4+ T cells, suggesting a role for citrullination in CD4+ T cell subset differentiation and function. Understanding the role of citrullination in CD4+ T cells may provide insights into immune-related diseases and inflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China;
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Yi Teng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou 215505, China
| | - Shengjun Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China;
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
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Pascual-García S, Martínez-Peinado P, Pujalte-Satorre C, Navarro-Sempere A, Esteve-Girbés J, López-Jaén AB, Javaloyes-Antón J, Cobo-Velacoracho R, Navarro-Blasco FJ, Sempere-Ortells JM. Exosomal Osteoclast-Derived miRNA in Rheumatoid Arthritis: From Their Pathogenesis in Bone Erosion to New Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1506. [PMID: 38338785 PMCID: PMC10855630 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031506] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, pain, and ultimately, bone erosion of the joints. The causes of this disease are multifactorial, including genetic factors, such as the presence of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1*04 variant, alterations in the microbiota, or immune factors including increased cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), neutrophils, or elevated M1 macrophages which, taken together, produce high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In this review, we focused on the function exerted by osteoclasts on osteoblasts and other osteoclasts by means of the release of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs). Based on a thorough revision, we classified these molecules into three categories according to their function: osteoclast inhibitors (miR-23a, miR-29b, and miR-214), osteoblast inhibitors (miR-22-3p, miR-26a, miR-27a, miR-29a, miR-125b, and miR-146a), and osteoblast enhancers (miR-20a, miR-34a, miR-96, miR-106a, miR-142, miR-199a, miR-324, and miR-486b). Finally, we analyzed potential therapeutic targets of these exosomal miRNAs, such as the use of antagomiRs, blockmiRs, agomiRs and competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), which are already being tested in murine and ex vivo models of RA. These strategies might have an important role in reestablishing the regulation of osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation making progress in the development of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Pascual-García
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | | | | | - Alicia Navarro-Sempere
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Jorge Esteve-Girbés
- Department of Legal Studies of the State, University of Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Ana B. López-Jaén
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Juan Javaloyes-Antón
- Department of Physics, Systems Engineering and Signal Theory, University of Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Raúl Cobo-Velacoracho
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Navarro-Blasco
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
- Rheumatology Unit, University General Hospital of Elche, 03203 Elche, Spain
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Laragione T, Harris C, Azizgolshani N, Beeton C, Bongers G, Gulko PS. Magnesium increases numbers of Foxp3+ Treg cells and reduces arthritis severity and joint damage in an IL-10-dependent manner mediated by the intestinal microbiome. EBioMedicine 2023; 92:104603. [PMID: 37201335 PMCID: PMC10203746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104603] [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: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease with emerging environmental and microbiome risk factors. The western diet is typically deficient in magnesium (Mg), and there is some evidence suggesting that Mg may have anti-inflammatory properties. But the actual role of Mg supplementation in arthritis or in T cell subsets has not been explored. METHODS We investigated the role of a high Mg diet in two different mouse models of RA induced with the KRN serum, and collagen-induced arthritis. We also characterized the phenotypes of splenocytes, gene expression, and an extensive intestinal microbiome analyses including fecal material transplantation (FMT). FINDINGS The high Mg diet group was significantly protected with reduced arthritis severity and joint damage, and reduced expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNFα. The high Mg group also had increased numbers of Foxp3+ Treg cells and IL-10-producing T cells. The high Mg protective effect disappeared in IL-10 knockout mice. FMT from the high Mg diet mice recreated the phenotypes seen in the diet-treated mice, with reduced arthritis severity, increased Foxp3+ Treg, and increased IL-10-producing T cells. Intestinal microbiome analyses using 16S rDNA sequencing revealed diet-specific changes, including reduced levels of RA-associated Prevotella in the high Mg group, while increasing levels of Bacteroides and other bacteria associated with increased production of short-chain fatty acids. Metagenomic analyses implicated additional pathways including L-tryptophan biosynthesis and arginine deiminase. INTERPRETATION We describe a new role for Mg in suppressing arthritis, in expanding Foxp3+ T reg cells and in the production of IL-10, and show that these effects are mediated by the intestinal microbiome. Our discoveries suggest a novel strategy for modifying the intestinal microbiome to treat RA and other autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresina Laragione
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, United States
| | - Carolyn Harris
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, United States
| | - Nasim Azizgolshani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, United States
| | - Christine Beeton
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, United States
| | - Gerold Bongers
- Microbiome Translational Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, United States
| | - Percio S Gulko
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, United States.
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Cheru N, Hafler DA, Sumida TS. Regulatory T cells in peripheral tissue tolerance and diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1154575. [PMID: 37197653 PMCID: PMC10183596 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1154575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of peripheral tolerance by CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) is essential for regulating autoreactive T cells. The loss of function of Foxp3 leads to autoimmune disease in both animals and humans. An example is the rare, X-linked recessive disorder known as IPEX (Immune Dysregulation, Polyendocrinopathy, Enteropathy X-linked) syndrome. In more common human autoimmune diseases, defects in Treg function are accompanied with aberrant effector cytokines such as IFNγ. It has recently become appreciated that Tregs plays an important role in not only maintaining immune homeostasis but also in establishing the tissue microenvironment and homeostasis of non-lymphoid tissues. Tissue resident Tregs show profiles that are unique to their local environments which are composed of both immune and non-immune cells. Core tissue-residence gene signatures are shared across different tissue Tregs and are crucial to homeostatic regulation and maintaining the tissue Treg pool in a steady state. Through interaction with immunocytes and non-immunocytes, tissue Tregs exert a suppressive function via conventional ways involving contact dependent and independent processes. In addition, tissue resident Tregs communicate with other tissue resident cells which allows Tregs to adopt to their local microenvironment. These bidirectional interactions are dependent on the specific tissue environment. Here, we summarize the recent advancements of tissue Treg studies in both human and mice, and discuss the molecular mechanisms that maintain tissue homeostasis and prevent pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nardos Cheru
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - David A. Hafler
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Tomokazu S. Sumida
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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7
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Min HK, Kim SH, Won JY, Kim KW, Lee JY, Lee SH, Kim HR. Dasatinib, a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor, prevents joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis animal model. Int J Rheum Dis 2023; 26:718-726. [PMID: 36808837 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
AIM We aimed to evaluate the preventive role of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor dasatinib in an animal model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS DBA/1J mice were injected with bovine type II collagen to induce arthritis (collagen-induced arthritis [CIA]). There were four experimental groups of mice, namely negative control (non-CIA), vehicle-treated CIA, dasatinib-pretreated CIA, and dasatinib-treated CIA. After collagen immunization, arthritis progression in the mice was clinically scored twice weekly for 5 weeks. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate in vitro CD4+ T-cell differentiation and ex vivo mast cell/CD4+ T-cell differentiation. Osteoclast formation was evaluated using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and by estimating the resorption pit area. RESULTS We found that the clinical arthritis histological scores were lower in the dasatinib pretreatment group than in the vehicle and dasatinib post-treatment groups. Flow cytometry showed that FcεR1+ cells were downregulated and regulatory T cells were upregulated in splenocytes of the dasatinib pretreatment group compared with those in the vehicle group. Additionally, there was a decline in IL-17+ CD4+ T-cell differentiation and an increase in CD4+ CD24high Foxp3+ T-cell differentiation with in vitro dasatinib treatment of human CD4+ T cells. The number of TRAP+ osteoclasts and the area of the resorption were decreased in the bone marrow cells derived from dasatinib-pretreated mice compared with those derived from vehicle group. CONCLUSION Dasatinib protected against arthritis in an animal model of RA by regulating the differentiation of regulatory T cells and IL-17+ CD4+ T cells and inhibiting osteoclastogenesis, indicating the therapeutic potential of dasatinib in the treatment of early RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Ki Min
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Se Hee Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | | | | | - Ji-Yeon Lee
- The Rheumatism Research Center, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang-Heon Lee
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hae-Rim Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Park HE, Oh H, Baek JH. Interleukin-34-regulated T-cell responses in rheumatoid arthritis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1078350. [PMID: 36530919 PMCID: PMC9747768 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1078350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease with a multifaceted etiology, which primarily affects and results in the deterioration of the synovium of patients. While the exact etiology of RA is still largely unknown, there is growing interest in the cytokine interleukin-34 (IL-34) as a driver or modulator of RA pathogenesis on the grounds that IL-34 is drastically increased in the serum and synovium of RA patients. Several studies have so far revealed the relationship between IL-34 levels and RA disease progression. Nevertheless, the significance and role of IL-34 in RA have remained ambiguous, as illustrated by two most recent studies, which reported contrasting effects of genetic IL-34 deletion in RA. Of note, IL-34 is a macrophage growth factor and is increasingly perceived as a master regulator of T-cell responses in RA via macrophage-dependent as well as T cell-intrinsic mechanisms. In this regard, several studies have demonstrated that IL-34 potentiates helper T-cell (Th) responses in RA, whereas studies also suggested that IL-34 alleviates synovial inflammation, potentially by inducing regulatory T-cells (Treg). Herein, we provide an overview of the current understanding of IL-34 involvement in RA and outline IL-34-mediated mechanisms in regulating T-cell responses in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jea-Hyun Baek
- School of Life Science, Handong Global University, Pohang, South Korea
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9
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Wang W, Xiang T, Yang Y, Wang Z, Xie J. E3 ubiquitin ligases STUB1/CHIP contributes to the Th17/Treg imbalance via the ubiquitination of aryl hydrocarbon receptor in rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Exp Immunol 2022; 209:280-290. [PMID: 35943876 PMCID: PMC9521662 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxac072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
STIP1-homologous U-Box containing protein 1 (STUB1) is involved in the development of immune pathologies and the regulation of T cell. However, the potential role of STUB1 in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), especially in the regulation of T cells, remains elusive. Here we show that STUB1 promotes the imbalance of Th17/Treg cells through non-degradative ubiquitination of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Using Western blot and flow cytometry analysis, we observe that the level of STUB1 was increased in RA patients compared with healthy controls. In particular, the expression of STUB1 protein was different in Th17 cells and Treg cells of RA patients. We also demonstrated that STUB1 facilitates Th17/Treg imbalance by up- or downregulating the expression of STUB1. In a subsequent series of in vitro experiments, we revealed that STUB1 promoted the imbalance of Th17 and Treg cells through non-degradative ubiquitination of AHR. Both knockdown of the AHR expression by siRNA and assays of CYP1A1 enzymatic activity by ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) supported this conclusion. Furthermore, we explored the ubiquitination sites of AHR responsible for STUB1-mediated ubiquitination and revealed that STUB1 promotes ubiquitination of AHR via K63 chains. Together, STUB1 may induce the imbalance of Th17/Treg cells via ubiquitination of AHR and serve as a potential therapeutic target for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ting Xiang
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yachen Yang
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zitao Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianmin Xie
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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10
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Hassouna SS, Sheta E, Zaki I, Harby SA, Allam EA. Trivalent chromium supplementation ameliorates adjuvant induced rheumatoid arthritis through up-regulation of FOXP3 and decrease in synovial Cathepsin G expression. Inflammopharmacology 2022; 30:2181-2195. [PMID: 35829940 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-022-01025-8] [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: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a known debilitating autoimmune disease. Immune-suppressants that are used for disease treatment have serious side effects, therefore, trivalent chromium (Cr (III)); which has shown evidence of its influences on some inflammatory pathways and cytokines; was used in this study for the first time to be assessed for its therapeutic effect in RA rat model and was compared to prednisolone in a trial to find a treatment with lesser side effects. METHODS Adult male albino rats were randomly divided into four groups: normal, untreated RA, prednisolone treated RA (1.25 mg/kg/day) and Cr (III) treated RA groups (80 μg/kg/day), induction of RA was done by subcutaneous complete Freund adjuvant injection. Study duration was 4 weeks throughout which arthritis scoring and weight measurement were pursued. Histopathological examination and immunohistochemical FOXP3 assessment were done for joint biopsies. Serum inflammatory markers (interleukin 17, interleukin 10, CRP) and synovial erosive arthritis marker (Cathepsin G) were measured. HDL and non-HDL cholesterol were estimated as well. RESULTS Cr (III) treatment showed marked clinical and histopathological improvement, also astonishing anti-inflammatory effects (increase in FOXP3 expression and interleukin 10, with decrease in interleukin 17, CRP and synovial Cathepsin G) to the extent that Cr (III) effects on inflammation abolishment were comparable to that of prednisolone and even better at some aspects. Moreover, Cr (III) was protective from side effects, i.e., weight gain and dyslipidemia that were seen with prednisolone treatment. CONCLUSIONS Cr (III) is promising in treating RA and it lacks some side effects of accustomed immune-modulatory agents including prednisolone. Further experimental studies and clinical trials should be held to see the efficacy of Cr (III) in different doses and to assess its long term side effects when used for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally S Hassouna
- Internal Medicine Department, Rheumatology and Immunology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Eman Sheta
- Pathology department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Inass Zaki
- Pathology department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Sahar A Harby
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Eman A Allam
- Medical Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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11
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Wang X, Bai H, Ma J, Qin H, Zeng Q, Hu F, Jiang T, Mao W, Zhao Y, Chen X, Qi X, Li M, Xu J, Hao J, Wang Y, Ding X, Liu Y, Huang T, Fang C, Ge C, Li D, Hu K, Ren X, Zhang B, Zhang B, Shi B, Zhang C. Identification of Distinct Immune Cell Subsets Associated With Asymptomatic Infection, Disease Severity, and Viral Persistence in COVID-19 Patients. Front Immunol 2022; 13:812514. [PMID: 35281000 PMCID: PMC8905648 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.812514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The cell-mediated protective and pathogenic immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection remain largely elusive. Here we identified 76 distinct cell subsets in the PBMC samples that were associated with various clinical presentations of COVID-19 using scRNA-seq technology coupled with a deep and comprehensive analysis of unique cell surface markers and differentially expressed genes. We revealed that (TRAV1-2+CD8+)MAIT cells and (NCAM1hiCD160+)NK cells significantly enriched in the asymptomatic subjects whereas (LAG3+CD160+CD8+)NKT cells increased in the symptomatic patients. We also observed that (CD68-CSF1R-IL1BhiCD14+)classical monocytes were positively correlated with the disease severity. Moreover, (CD33-HLA-DMA-CD14+)classical monocytes and (CLEC10A-S100A9lo)pDC were associated with the viral persistence. The GO and KEGG analyses identified enriched pathways related to immune responses, inflammation, and apoptosis. These findings may enhance our understanding of the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19 and help develop novel strategies against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Wang
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Han Bai
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Junpeng Ma
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongyu Qin
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qiqi Zeng
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fang Hu
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Weikang Mao
- LC-Bio Technologies, Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaobei Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Qi
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Mengyang Li
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiao Xu
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jingcan Hao
- Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yankui Wang
- Dialysis Center, The Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xi Ding
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuanrui Liu
- LC-Bio Technologies, Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Chao Fang
- LC-Bio Technologies, Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China
| | - Changli Ge
- LC-Bio Technologies, Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China
| | - Dong Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ke Hu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xianwen Ren
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), School of Life Sciences, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Baojun Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Bingyin Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chengsheng Zhang
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, United States
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12
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Min HK, Kim S, Lee JY, Kim KW, Lee SH, Kim HR. IL-18 binding protein suppresses IL-17-induced osteoclastogenesis and rectifies type 17 helper T cell / regulatory T cell imbalance in rheumatoid arthritis. J Transl Med 2021; 19:392. [PMID: 34530864 PMCID: PMC8444577 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03071-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have increased levels of interleukin-18 (IL-18) and decreased levels of IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP) in the serum and synovial fluid (SF) compared to those in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) or in healthy controls. In this study, we evaluated the effects of IL-18BP on osteoclastogenesis and T cell differentiation in RA in vitro. Methods Serum and SF of patients with RA and OA were collected to compare IL-18 and IL-18BP levels by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and SF mononuclear cells (SFMCs) of RA patients were cultured under type 17 helper T cell (Th17) polarisation conditions with or without IL-18BP. In addition, PBMCs were cultured in the presence of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL) or IL-17A with or without IL-18BP, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction for expression levels of osteoclast-related genes were performed. Results IL-18 levels were higher in the serum and SF of patients with RA, whereas IL-18BP was lower in the SF of patients with RA than in the control group. Treatment of patients’ PBMCs with IL-18BP decreased the differentiation of CD4+ IL-17A+ and CD4+ RANKL+ T cells, whereas the differentiation of CD4+CD25highFOXP3+ T cell population increased in a dose-dependent manner. These changes in CD4+ T cell differentiation were also observed in the SFMCs of patients with RA. The levels IL-17A and soluble RANKL in the culture medium were significantly decreased by IL-18BP. IL-18BP administration decreased TRAP+ cell counts in a dose-dependent manner on the background of stimulation with RANKL-and IL-17A. In addition, expression levels of TRAP, NFATC1, CTSK, and TNFRSF11A (RANK) genes were lower in the IL-18BP treated cells. Conclusion We showed that IL-18BP can rectify the Th17/Treg imbalance and decrease IL-17-induced osteoclastogenesis in PBMCs from patients with RA. Therefore, IL-18BP may have therapeutic potential for RA treatment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-03071-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Ki Min
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, 05030, Republic of Korea
| | - Sehee Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, 05030, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Yeon Lee
- The Rheumatism Research Center, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, 05030, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Sang-Heon Lee
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, 05030, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Rim Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, 05030, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Rheumatology, Konkuk University Medical Center, 120-1 Neungdong-ro (Hwayang-dong), Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 143-729, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Li X, Xu H, Huang J, Luo D, Lv S, Lu X, Xiao C. Dysfunctions, Molecular Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Strategies of Regulatory T Cells in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:716081. [PMID: 34512345 PMCID: PMC8428974 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.716081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) represent a distinct subpopulation of CD4+ T lymphocytes that promote immune tolerance and maintain immune system homeostasis. The dysfunction of Tregs is tightly associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Although the complex pathogenic processes of RA remain unclear, studies on Tregs in RA have achieved substantial progress not only in fundamental research but also in clinical application. This review discusses the current knowledge of the characterizations, functions, and molecular mechanisms of Tregs in the pathogenesis of RA, and potential therapies for these disorders are also involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoya Li
- The Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huihui Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Research of Chinese Medicine on Prevention and Treatment for Major Diseases, Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Huang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Changping District, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Lv
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangchen Lu
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Xiao
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Emergency, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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14
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Wang H, Fang K, Yan W, Chang X. T-Cell Immune Imbalance in Rheumatoid Arthritis Is Associated with Alterations in NK Cells and NK-Like T Cells Expressing CD38. J Innate Immun 2021; 14:148-166. [PMID: 34428762 DOI: 10.1159/000516642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CD38+ NK (CD3- CD16+ CD38+ CD56+) cells were increased in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which suppressed Treg cell differentiation. This study explored how CD38+ NK cells regulated CD4+ T-cell differentiation into Treg cells in RA. METHODS Proportions of CD38+ NK cells and their counterpart CD38+ NK-like T (CD3+ CD16+ CD38+ CD56+) cells were measured in RA and rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). CD38+ NK cells and CD38+ NK-like T cells were cocultured with CD4+ T cells, respectively. RESULTS A significantly increased proportion of CD38+ NK cells and a decreased proportion of CD38+ NK-like T cells were detected in RA and CIA blood and synovial fluids. When CD4+ T cells were cocultured with CD38+ NK cells, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling was activated, and Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg ratios were increased. When CD38+ NK cells were pretreated with anti-CD38 antibody, Treg cell proportion was increased, and Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg ratios were decreased. CD38+ NK-like T cells showed the opposite results. CD38+ NK cells and CD38+ NK-like-T cells activated differential gene expressions and pathways in CD4+ T cells and initiated Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation by differential gene nodes. CONCLUSIONS This study suggest that the high CD38+ NK cell proportion and low CD38+ NK-like T cell proportion in RA suppress Treg cell differentiation by stimulating mTOR signaling in CD4+ T cells, which consequentially disturbs the immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxing Wang
- Medical Research Center of The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Clinical Laboratory of Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Kehua Fang
- Clinical Laboratory of The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Weining Yan
- Joint Surgery Department of The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaotian Chang
- Medical Research Center of The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Engineering Technology Center for Major Disease Marker, Qingdao, China
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