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Gong ZZ, Li T, Yan H, Xu MH, Lian Y, Yang YX, Wei W, Liu T. Exploring the autophagy-related pathogenesis of active ulcerative colitis. World J Clin Cases 2024; 12:1622-1633. [PMID: 38576744 PMCID: PMC10989433 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i9.1622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC) is complex, and recent therapeutic advances remain unable to fully alleviate the condition. AIM To inform the development of novel UC treatments, bioinformatics was used to explore the autophagy-related pathogenesis associated with the active phase of UC. METHODS The GEO database was searched for UC-related datasets that included healthy controls who met the screening criteria. Differential analysis was conducted to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Autophagy-related targets were collected and intersected with the DEGs to identiy differentially expressed autophagy-related genes (DEARGs) associated with active UC. DEARGs were then subjected to KEGG, GO, and DisGeNET disease enrichment analyses using R software. Differential analysis of immune infiltrating cells was performed using the CiberSort algorithm. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm and protein-protein interaction network were used to narrow down the DEARGs, and the top five targets in the Dgree ranking were designated as core targets. RESULTS A total of 4822 DEGs were obtained, of which 58 were classified as DEARGs. SERPINA1, BAG3, HSPA5, CASP1, and CX3CL1 were identified as core targets. GO enrichment analysis revealed that DEARGs were primarily enriched in processes related to autophagy regulation and macroautophagy. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that DEARGs were predominantly associated with NOD-like receptor signaling and other signaling pathways. Disease enrichment analysis indicated that DEARGs were significantly linked to diseases such as malignant glioma and middle cerebral artery occlusion. Immune infiltration analysis demonstrated a higher presence of immune cells like activated memory CD4 T cells and follicular helper T cells in active UC patients than in healthy controls. CONCLUSION Autophagy is closely related to the active phase of UC and the potential targets obtained from the analysis in this study may provide new insight into the treatment of active UC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo-Zhi Gong
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Teng Li
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100102, China
| | - He Yan
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Min-Hao Xu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Yue Lian
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Yi-Xuan Yang
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100102, China
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Sun M, Wang X, Zhang N, Wang L, Wang X, Fan W, Li Q, Liu Y, Song M, Guo X. Imbalance of follicular regulatory T (Tfr) cells/follicular helper T (Tfh) cells in adult patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:959-965. [PMID: 37208911 PMCID: PMC10525409 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231168142] [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: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This study is to investigate the role of follicular regulatory T (Tfr) cells/follicular helper T (Tfh) cells imbalance in adult patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Totally, 40 cases of primary ITP patients and 30 healthy controls were enrolled. Blood samples were collected from ITP patients (pre- and post-therapy) and controls. Flow cytometry was used to detect the proportion of Tfr and Tfh cells in peripheral blood. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to detect the mRNA expression levels of FOXP3, BCL-6, and BLIMP-1. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted to detect interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-21 levels. Spearman's correlation was used for correlation analysis. Compared with control, Tfr cell proportion, FOXP3 mRNA, and IL-10 were significantly decreased in the pre-therapy ITP group, but were significantly increased post-therapy. Tfh cell proportion, BCL-6 mRNA, and IL-21 were increased, while BLIMP-1 mRNA was decreased, in the pre-therapy ITP group than the control group. These effects were reversed in the post-therapy ITP group. Moreover, the Tfr/Tfh ratio was decreased in the pre-therapy ITP group than control group, whereas was increased in the post-therapy ITP group than the pre-therapy ITP group. Furthermore, Tfr cell proportion, FOXP3 mRNA, IL-10, and Tfr/Tfh ratio were positively correlated with the platelet count (PLT) in the ITP pre-therapy group. In addition, Tfh cell proportion, BCL-6 mRNA, and IL-21 were negatively correlated with the PLT, while BLIMP-1 mRNA was positively correlated with the PLT. Conclusively, Tfr cell proportion in peripheral blood is decreased and Tfh cell proportion is increased, leading to unbalanced Tfr/Tfh ratio in ITP patients pre-therapy. The imbalance of Tfr/Tfh is recovered post-therapy, suggesting that the Tfr and Tfh cells may be involved in ITP pathogenesis. The abnormal expression of FOXP3, BCL-6, and BLIMP-1 mRNA and the changes in IL-10 and IL-21 levels may be related to the imbalance of Tfr/Tfh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingling Sun
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Xiujuan Wang
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Xinyou Wang
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Wenxia Fan
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Qinzhi Li
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Mengting Song
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
| | - Xinhong Guo
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, China
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Cao Y, Hou Y, Zhao L, Huang Y, Liu G. New insights into follicular regulatory T cells in the intestinal and tumor microenvironments. J Cell Physiol 2023. [PMID: 37210730 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Follicular regulatory T (Tfr) cells are a novel and unique subset of effector regulatory T (Treg) cells that are located in germinal centers (GCs). Tfr cells express transcription profiles that are characteristic of both follicular helper T (Tfh) cells and Treg cells and negatively regulate GC reactions, including Tfh cell activation and cytokine production, class switch recombination and B cell activation. Evidence also shows that Tfr cells have specific characteristics in different local immune microenvironments. This review focuses on the regulation of Tfr cell differentiation and function in unique local immune microenvironments, including the intestine and tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yejin Cao
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yueru Hou
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Longhao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yijin Huang
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Guangwei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
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Chen Q, Bei S, Zhang Z, Wang X, Zhu Y. Identification of diagnostic biomarks and immune cell infiltration in ulcerative colitis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6081. [PMID: 37055577 PMCID: PMC10102327 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33388-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to explore diagnostic biomarks and immune cell infiltration characteristics in ulcerative colitis (UC). We used the dataset GSE38713 as the training set and dataset GSE94648 as the test set. A total of 402 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from GSE38713. Annotating, visualizing, and integrating discovery of these differential genes was performed using Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Gene and Genome Encyclopedia Pathway (KEGG), and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Protein-protein interaction networks were constructed from the STRING database, and protein functional modules were identified using the CytoHubba plugin of Cytoscape. Random forest and LASSO regression were used to screen for UC-related diagnostic markers, and ROC curves were generated to validate their diagnostic value. The composition of 22 immune cells was analyzed, and the immune cell infiltration in UC was analyzed using CIBERSORT. Results: Seven diagnostic markers associated with UC were identified: TLCD3A, KLF9, EFNA1, NAAA,WDR4, CKAP4, and CHRNA1. Immune cell infiltration assessment revealed that macrophages M1, activated dendritic cells, and neutrophil cells infiltrated relatively more compared to normal control samples. Our results suggest a new functional feature of UC and suggest potential biomarkers for UC through comprehensive analysis of integrated gene expression data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Chen
- Department of Anorectal, Kunming Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 25 Dongfeng East Road, Panlong District, Kunming, 650011, Yunnan Province, China.
| | - Shaosheng Bei
- Department of Anorectal, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyun Zhang
- Department of Anorectal, Kunming Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 25 Dongfeng East Road, Panlong District, Kunming, 650011, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Guang'an Men Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yunying Zhu
- Department of Anorectal, Kunming Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 25 Dongfeng East Road, Panlong District, Kunming, 650011, Yunnan Province, China
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The Waxing, Waning, and Predictors of Humoral Responses to Vector-Based SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine in Hemodialysis Patients. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10091537. [PMID: 36146615 PMCID: PMC9502593 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10091537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemodialysis (HD) patients are vulnerable to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and have a high mortality rate. We evaluated the anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibody (ACOV2S) levels in 385 HD patients before and 4 and 8 weeks after the second dose of vector-based ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine. For study control, week 4 ACOV2S levels after the second vaccination dose were measured in 66 healthcare workers (HCWs). The seroconversion rate of HD patients was 98.96% 4 weeks after the second vaccination. Despite low antibody levels before the second dose (week 0), week 4 ACOV2S levels after the second vaccine dose in HD patients increased prominently and were compatible with those in HCWs (p = 0.814 for HCWs vs. HD patients). The ACOV2S levels in HD patients waned significantly 8 weeks after the second vaccination dose (p < 0.001 at week 8 vs. 4). Older age and immunosuppressant use were negative predictors, while higher C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were positive predictors of ACOV2S waxing after the second vaccine dose in HD patients. Higher CRP levels and platelet counts were independently associated with decreased ACOV2S waning. The ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine is effective and safe for primary vaccination in HD patients and a booster dose is necessary.
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Liu T, Liu Y, Liu CX, Jiang YM. CXCL13 is elevated in inflammatory bowel disease in mice and humans and is implicated in disease pathogenesis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:997862. [PMID: 36172372 PMCID: PMC9510369 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.997862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
CXCL13 is a chemokine that is widely involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, tumors and inflammatory diseases. In this study, we investigate the role of CXCL13 in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease using both clinical specimens and animal models. We found that the serum CXCL13 concentration in IBD patients was significantly higher than that in healthy controls, and correlated with that of CRP, neutrophils counts and hemoglobin. The increase of CXCL13 in IBD patients might be related to the significant decrease of circulating CD4+CXCR5+ T cells, the increase of CD19+CD5+ B cells and the enhancement of humoral immunity. In mice colitis model, we also found elevated levels of CXCL13 in colon tissue. Cxcl13-/- knockout mice exhibited a mild, self-limiting form of disease. Additionally, CXCL13 deficiency restricted CD4+CXCR5+ T cells migration in mesenteric lymph nodes, resulting locally regulatory B cells increased in colon. In conclusion, our findings raise the possibility that CXCL13 plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of IBD. We believe that our findings will contribute to the understanding of the etiology, and that antagonizing or inhibiting CXCL13 may work as a potential adjunctive therapy strategy for patients with IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Obstetric and Gynecolohic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center/National Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center/National Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chen-xi Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Obstetric and Gynecolohic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yong-mei Jiang, ; Chen-xi Liu,
| | - Yong-mei Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Obstetric and Gynecolohic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yong-mei Jiang, ; Chen-xi Liu,
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Astragalus polysaccharide alleviates ulcerative colitis by regulating the balance of Tfh/Treg cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 111:109108. [PMID: 35926271 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The immunomodulatory function of natural active ingredients has long been a focus of scientific research, with recent hotspots reporting targeted modulation of the follicular helper T cells (Tfh)/regulatory T cells (Treg) balance as an emerging strategy for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). Here, dextran sodium sulfate induced mice UC and Astragalus polysaccharide (APS, 200 mg/kg/day) was administered simultaneously. In this study, APS effectively alleviated colitis in mice by improving survival rate, disease activity index (DAI), the change rate of body weight, colonic length and weight, and histopathological injury of the colon. Moreover, APS regulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-12p70, IL-23, Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-ɑ, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in colonic tissues of colitis mice. Importantly, APS significantly downregulated Tfh cell and the expression of its related nuclear transcription factors Blimp-1 and Bcl-6, and cytokine IL-21. Meanwhile, APS regulated the differentiation of Tfh subpopulations in colitis mice, with Tfh10 and Tfr significantly upregulated while Tfh1, Tfh17, and Tfh21 significantly downregulated. In addition, APS significantly upregulated Treg cells and the levels of its associated nuclear transcription factor Foxp3, and cytokine IL-10 in colitis mice. In conclusion, APS effectively alleviated UC by reshaping the balance of Tfh/Treg cells.
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Zhong Y, Xiao Q, Li S, Chen L, Long J, Fang W, Yu F, Huang J, Zhao H, Liu D. Bupi Yichang Pill alleviates dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in mice by regulating the homeostasis of follicular helper T cells. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 100:154091. [PMID: 35395566 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Follicular helper T (Tfh) cells-based therapy represents a new treatment option for inflammatory bowel disease. Bupi Yichang Pill (BPYCP), a traditional Chinese formula for the treatment of dysentery and diarrhea, exhibits potential anti-inflammatory activities in treating various kinds of inflammation. However, its anti-inflammatory effect on colitis and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. PURPOSE To explore the protective role and underlying immunomodulatory effects of BPYCP in the treatment of UC. METHODS The dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) free-drinking method induced UC in C57BL/6 mice, and BPYCP was orally administrated at a dosage of 1.5, 3.0, or 6.0 g/kg/day. Throughout the experimental period, the effects of BPYCP on DSS-induced clinical symptoms and disease activity index (DAI) were monitored and analyzed. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the histopathological injury of the colon. Flow cytometry was used to detect the levels of Tfh cells, Tfh cell subpopulations, and memory Tfh cells. ELISA, Western blot, and qRT-PCR were used to detect the expression of inflammatory cytokines and Tfh cell-related biomarkers. RESULTS Medium and high dosages of BPYCP effectively alleviated DSS-induced experimental colitis with increased body weight, survival rate and colonic length, and decreased DAI, colonic weight, and colonic index, as well as less ulcer formation and inflammatory cell infiltration, increased anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-17A, IL-6, and TNF-ɑ. Moreover, BPYCP administration significantly decreased the percentage of Tfh cells and the expression of Tfh markers ICOS, PD-1 and Bcl-6 in the mesenteric lymph nodes of colitis mice. In addition, BPYCP treatment obviously decreased the percentages of Tfh1, Tfh17 and Tem-Tfh cells and upregulated Tfr cells in colitis mice. However, there were no significant regulatory effects of BPYCP on Tfh cell response in normal mice. CONCLUSION Taken together, these results demonstrated a protective effect of BPYCP against DSS-induced experimental colitis by regulating Tfh cell homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youbao Zhong
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China; Laboratory Animal Research Center for Science and Technology, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, China
| | - Qiuping Xiao
- Research and Development Department, Jiangzhong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Laboratory Animal Research Center for Science and Technology, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, China
| | - Liling Chen
- Laboratory Animal Research Center for Science and Technology, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, China
| | - Jian Long
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Weiyan Fang
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Feihao Yu
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jiaqi Huang
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Haimei Zhao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Duanyong Liu
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China.
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Ulcerative colitis is characterized by a plasmablast-skewed humoral response associated with disease activity. Nat Med 2022; 28:766-779. [PMID: 35190725 PMCID: PMC9107072 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-022-01680-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
B cells, which are critical for intestinal homeostasis, remain understudied in ulcerative colitis (UC). In this study, we recruited three cohorts of patients with UC (primary cohort, n = 145; validation cohort 1, n = 664; and validation cohort 2, n = 143) to comprehensively define the landscape of B cells during UC-associated intestinal inflammation. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, single-cell IgH gene sequencing and protein-level validation, we mapped the compositional, transcriptional and clonotypic landscape of mucosal and circulating B cells. We found major perturbations within the mucosal B cell compartment, including an expansion of naive B cells and IgG+ plasma cells with curtailed diversity and maturation. Furthermore, we isolated an auto-reactive plasma cell clone targeting integrin αvβ6 from inflamed UC intestines. We also identified a subset of intestinal CXCL13-expressing TFH-like T peripheral helper cells that were associated with the pathogenic B cell response. Finally, across all three cohorts, we confirmed that changes in intestinal humoral immunity are reflected in circulation by the expansion of gut-homing plasmablasts that correlates with disease activity and predicts disease complications. Our data demonstrate a highly dysregulated B cell response in UC and highlight a potential role of B cells in disease pathogenesis.
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Gu G, Lv X, Liu G, Zeng R, Li S, Chen L, Liang Z, Wang H, Lu F, Zhan L, Lv X. Tnfaip6 Secreted by Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuates TNBS-Induced Colitis by Modulating Follicular Helper T Cells and Follicular Regulatory T Cells Balance in Mice. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:734040. [PMID: 34707499 PMCID: PMC8542666 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.734040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the immunological mechanism of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods: Mice with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis were intraperitoneally injected with phosphate-buffered saline, BM-MSCs, BM-MSCs with tumor necrosis factor-induced protein 6 (Tnfaip6) knockdown mediated by RNA interference recombinant adenovirus, and BM-MSCs-infected with control adenovirus or recombinant mouse Tnfaip6. The disease activity index, weight loss, and histological scores were recorded. Serum levels of Tnfaip6 and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-21, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-10 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The relative expression levels of these cytokines, B-cell lymphoma 6 (BCL-6) and fork-like transcription factor p3 (Foxp3) in the colon were determined by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). BCL-6 and Foxp3 are the master regulators of follicular helper T cells (Tfh) and follicular regulatory T cells (Tfr), respectively. The infiltration of Tfh and Tfr in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) and spleens was analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: Compared to the normal control group, the expression levels of BCL-6 and IL-21 in the colon, Tfh infiltration, and ratios of Tfh/Tfr in the MLNs and spleen, and the serum concentrations of IL-21 and TNF-α increased significantly in the colitis model group (p < 0.05). Intraperitoneal injection of BM-MSCs or Tnfaip6 ameliorated weight loss and clinical and histological severity of colitis, downregulated the expression of BCL-6, IL-21, and TNF-α, upregulated the expression of Foxp3, IL-10, and Tnfaip6 (p < 0.05), increased Tfr and reduced the infiltration of Tfh in the MLNs and spleen, and downregulated the Tfh/Tfr ratio (p < 0.05). On the other hand, BM-MSCs lost the therapeutic effect and immune regulatory functions on Tfh and Tfr after Tnfaip6 knockdown. Conclusion: Tfh increase in the inflamed colon, Tfh decrease and Tfr increase during the colitis remission phase, and the imbalance of the Tfh/Tfr ratio is closely related to the progression of IBD. Tnfaip6 secreted by BM-MSCs alleviates IBD by inhibiting Tfh differentiation, promoting Tfr differentiation, and improving the imbalance of Tfh/Tfr in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangli Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaodan Lv
- Department of Clinical Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Gengfeng Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Ruizhi Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shiquan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Zhaoliang Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Huiqin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fei Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lingling Zhan
- Department of Clinical Experimental Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaoping Lv
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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The Role of T Follicular Helper Cells and Interleukin-21 in the Pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2021; 2021:9621738. [PMID: 34471409 PMCID: PMC8405314 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9621738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
T follicular helper (Tfh) cells represent a novel subset of CD4+ T cells which can provide critical help for germinal center (GC) formation and antibody production. The Tfh cells are characterized by the expression of CXC chemokine receptor 5 (CXCR5), programmed death 1 (PD-1), inducible costimulatory molecule (ICOS), B cell lymphoma 6 (BCL-6), and the secretion of interleukin-21 (IL-21). Given the important role of Tfh cells in B cell activation and high-affinity antibody production, Tfh cells are involved in the pathogenesis of many human diseases. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic inflammatory diseases characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are the most studied types of IBD. Dysregulated mucosal immune response plays an important role in the pathogenesis of IBD. In recent years, many studies have identified the critical role of Tfh cells and IL-21 in the pathogenic process IBD. In this paper, we will discuss the role of Tfh cells and IL-21 in IBD pathogenesis.
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12
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Xiu MX, Liu YM, Chen GY, Hu C, Kuang BH. Identifying Hub Genes, Key Pathways and Immune Cell Infiltration Characteristics in Pediatric and Adult Ulcerative Colitis by Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis. Dig Dis Sci 2021; 66:3002-3014. [PMID: 32974809 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-020-06611-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In the present study, we investigated the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), pathways and immune cell infiltration characteristics of pediatric and adult ulcerative colitis (UC). METHODS We conducted DEG analysis using the microarray dataset GSE87473 containing 19 pediatric and 87 adult UC samples downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus. Gene ontology and pathway enrichment analyses were conducted using Metascape. We constructed the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and the drug-target interaction network of DEGs and identified hub modules and genes using Cytoscape and analyzed immune cell infiltration in pediatric and adult UC using CIBERSORT. RESULTS In total, 1700 DEGs were screened from the dataset. These genes were enriched mainly in inter-cellular items relating to cell junctions, cell adhesion, actin cytoskeleton and transmembrane receptor signaling pathways and intra-cellular items relating to the splicing, metabolism and localization of RNA. CDC42, POLR2A, RAC1, PIK3R1, MAPK1 and SRC were identified as hub DEGs. Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed higher proportions of naive B cells, resting memory T helper cells, regulatory T cells, monocytes, M0 macrophages and activated mast cells in pediatric UC, along with lower proportions of memory B cells, follicular helper T cells, γδ T cells, M2 macrophages, and activated dendritic cells. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggested that hub genes CDC42, POLR2A, RAC1, PIK3R1, MAPK1 and SRC and immune cells including B cells, T cells, monocytes, macrophages and mast cells play vital roles in the pathological differences between pediatric and adult UC and may serve as potential biomarkers in the diagnosis and treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Xi Xiu
- Medical School of Nanchang University, 603 Bayi Road, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yuan-Meng Liu
- Medical School of Nanchang University, 603 Bayi Road, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Guang-Yuan Chen
- Medical School of Nanchang University, 603 Bayi Road, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Cong Hu
- Medical School of Nanchang University, 603 Bayi Road, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bo-Hai Kuang
- Medical School of Nanchang University, 603 Bayi Road, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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13
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Qu SL, Chen L, Wen XS, Zuo JP, Wang XY, Lu ZJ, Yang YF. Suppression of Th17 cell differentiation via sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 by cinnamaldehyde can ameliorate ulcerative colitis. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 134:111116. [PMID: 33341041 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is chronic disease characterized by diffuse inflammation of the mucosa of the colon and rectum. Although the etiology is unknown, dysregulation of the intestinal mucosal immune system is closely related to UC. Cinnamaldehyde (CA) is a major active compound from cinnamon, is known as its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. However, little research focused on its regulatory function on immune cells in UC. Therefore, we set out to explore the modulating effects of CA on immune cells in UC. We found that CA reduced the progression of colitis through controlling the production of proinflammatory cytokines and inhibiting the proportion of Th17 cells. Furthermore, the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method was employed for analyzing and differentiating metabolites, data showed that sphingolipid pathway has a great influence on the effect of CA on UC. Meanwhile, sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1P2) and Rho-GTP protein levels were downregulated in colonic tissues after CA treatment. Moreover, in vitro assays showed that CA inhibited Th17 cell differentiation and downregulated of S1P2 and Rho-GTP signaling. Notably, we found that treatment with S1P2 antagonist (JTE-013) weakened the inhibitory effect of CA on Th17 cells. Furthermore, S1P2 deficiency (S1P2-/-) blocked the effect of CA on Th17 cell differentiation. In addition, CA can also improve inflammation via lncRNA H19 and MIAT. To sum up, this study provides clear evidence that CA can ameliorate ulcerative colitis through suppressing Th17 cells via S1P2 pathway and regulating lncRNA H19 and MIAT, which further supports S1P2 as a potential drug target for immunity-mediated UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Lan Qu
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Long Chen
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xue-Shan Wen
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jian-Ping Zuo
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Laboratory of Anti-inflammation and Immunopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Wang
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Laboratory of Anti-inflammation and Immunopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Zhi-Jie Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Yi-Fu Yang
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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14
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Zhao X, Jin T, Zheng C, Ma D, Zhang Y. Imbalance of Circulating Tfh/Tfr Cells in Patients With Parkinson's Disease. Front Neurol 2020; 11:572205. [PMID: 33123078 PMCID: PMC7573556 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.572205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Follicular helper T (Tfh) cells and follicular regulatory T (Tfr) cells are essential for B cell differentiation, germinal center formation, and humoral immune responses. Immunity and inflammation have been thought to be involved in Parkinson's disease (PD). In this study, we aimed to identify whether circulating Tfh and Tfr (cTfh and cTfr) cells contribute to PD. Methods: Thirty-nine PD patients and 26 health controls (HCs) were enrolled. The numbers of cTfh (CD4+CXCR5+PD-1+) cells and cTfr (CD4+CXCR5+CD25hiCD127low) cells were analyzed via flow cytometry. The serum concentrations of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, IL-21, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β were examined by cytometric bead array. Results: The percentage of cTfh cells among CD4+ T cells in PD patients was significantly higher than that in HCs [3.68% (2.64–5.70%) vs. 1.94% (1.32%−2.99%), P < 0.001], while the percentage of cTfr cells among CD4+ T cells in PD patients was slight decreased but without significance [1.05% (0.62–1.54%) vs. 1.3% (0.63–1.90%), P > 0.05]. The percentage of CD19+ B cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was significantly lower in PD patients than in HCs [5.35% (4.13–9.38%) vs. 8.68% (5.61–12.93%), P = 0.014]. The serum concentrations of IL-4, IL-10, IL-21, and TGF-β in PD patients did not differ significantly from those in HCs (P > 0.05). There was a positive trend of the correlation between the number of cTfh and the serum IL-4 concentrations in PD patients (P = 0.032, r = 0.353). There was a positive trend of the correlation between the number of cTfr and the serum IL-10 concentrations in PD patients (P = 0.047, r = 0.328), A positive trend of the correlation were found for the serum concentration of IL-21 with H-Y stage (r = 0.356, P = 0.026) and UPDRS-III score (r = 0.347, P = 0.030). Conclusions: These results indicate that an imbalance of cTfh and cTfr cells may be involved in the chronic progression of PD, and IL-21 may be a biomarker for monitoring the severity of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuzhen Zhao
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Neurology, Jining No. 1 People's Hospital, Shandong, China
| | - Tao Jin
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chao Zheng
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Di Ma
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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15
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Long Y, Zhao X, Liu C, Xia C, Liu C. Activated inducible co-stimulator-positive programmed cell death 1-positive follicular helper T cells indicate disease activity and severity in ulcerative colitis patients. Clin Exp Immunol 2020; 202:106-118. [PMID: 32621310 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inducible co-stimulator-positive (ICOS) and programmed cell death 1-positive (PD-1) are important markers for follicular helper T cells (Tfh); however, their roles and clinical values in ulcerative colitis (UC) remain unknown. In this study, we recruited 68 UC patients and 34 healthy controls. Circulating ICOS+ , PD-1+ and ICOS+ PD-1+ Tfh subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry. Twelve active UC patients achieving remission after treatment with 5-aminosalicylic acid were followed-up and Tfh subset changes were analyzed. Serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-21 levels and B cell subsets were analyzed and Mayo scores were calculated. Correlation analyses were performed between Tfh subsets and the clinical indicators. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to evaluate the efficiency of Tfh subsets for disease monitoring. We found that levels of ICOS+ , PD-1+ and ICOS+ PD-1+ Tfh cells were significantly increased in active UC and significantly decreased when achieving clinical remission. Activated ICOS+ PD-1+ Tfh cells were positively correlated with serum CRP and Mayo scores. Furthermore, ICOS+ PD-1+ Tfh cells were significantly correlated with circulating new memory B cells and plasmablasts, as well as serum IgG, IL-4 and IL-21. ROC analyses showed that when ICOS+ PD-1+ Tfh cells were used in combination with PD-1+ Tfh cells, the diagnostic efficacy in distinguishing active UC from stable remission patients was higher than that of any one used alone, with area under curve (AUC) value 0·931. Our findings suggest that increased ICOS+ PD-1+ Tfh cells are associated with the activation of B cells in the pathogenesis of UC, and may be a potential biomarker for UC disease monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Long
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - X Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - C Xia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
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Globig AM, Sommer NP, Wild K, Schardey J, Zoldan K, Thomann AK, Schulte LA, Schreiner R, Reindl W, Klaus J, Schempp CM, Hofmann M, Thimme R, Boettler T, Hasselblatt P. Ustekinumab Inhibits T Follicular Helper Cell Differentiation in Patients With Crohn's Disease. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 11:1-12. [PMID: 32679193 PMCID: PMC7593584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease [CD] and ulcerative colitis) involves dysregulated TH1 and TH17 cell responses, which can be targeted therapeutically by the monoclonal antibody Ustekinumab directed against the joint p40 subunit of IL-12 and IL-23. These cytokines may also regulate the differentiation of T follicular helper (TFH) cells, which promote B cell function in germinal centers. However, the role of TFH cells in CD pathogenesis and impact of Ustekinumab therapy on TFH cell fate in patients are poorly defined. METHODS Lymphocytes were isolated from peripheral blood (n=45) and intestinal biopsies (n=15) of CD patients or healthy controls (n=21) and analyzed by flow cytometry to assess TFH cell phenotypes and functions ex vivo. In addition, TFH cell differentiation was analyzed in the presence of Ustekinumab in vitro. RESULTS TFH cell frequencies in the intestine as well as peripheral blood were associated with endoscopic as well as biochemical evidence of CD activity. CD patients with clinical response to Ustekinumab, but not those with response to anti-TNF antibodies, displayed reduced frequencies of circulating TFH cells in a concentration-dependent manner while the TFH phenotype was not affected by Ustekinumab therapy. In keeping with this notion, TFH cell differentiation was inhibited by Ustekinumab in vitro while TFH cell maintenance was not affected. Moreover, Ustekinumab therapy resulted in reduced germinal center activity in CD patients in vivo. CONCLUSIONS These data implicate TFH cells in the pathogenesis of CD and indicate that Ustekinumab therapy affects TFH cell differentiation, which may influence TFH-mediated immune functions in UST-treated CD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Maria Globig
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany,Berta-Ottenstein-Programme, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Nikola Patricia Sommer
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Wild
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Josefine Schardey
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Zoldan
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anne Kerstin Thomann
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Rupert Schreiner
- Medical Care Center Dr. Limbach and Colleagues, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Reindl
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jochen Klaus
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christoph Mathis Schempp
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maike Hofmann
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Robert Thimme
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Boettler
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Peter Hasselblatt
- Department of Medicine II, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany,Correspondence Address requests for correspondence to: Peter Hasselblatt, MD, Department of Medicine II, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Strasse 55, D-79106 Freiburg, Germany. fax: ++49 761 270 33530.
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17
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Liu XK, Zhao HM, Wang HY, Ge W, Zhong YB, Long J, Liu DY. Regulatory Effect of Sishen Pill on Tfh Cells in Mice With Experimental Colitis. Front Physiol 2020; 11:589. [PMID: 32581849 PMCID: PMC7290041 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The T follicular helper T (Tfh) cells play a significant role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which is regulated by the Bcl-6/Blimp-1 pathway. Some studies have suggested that regulating activation of the Bcl-6/Blimp-1 pathway should be an effective method to treat IBD. Sishen Pill (SSP) has been used frequently to treat chronic colitis. Its mechanism is related to the downstream proteins in the Bcl-6/Blimp-1 pathway. However, it is unknown whether SSP regulates the function and differentiation of Tfh cells to treat IBD. In the present study, chronic colitis was induced by dextran sodium sulfate and treated with SSP for 7 days. SSP effectively treated chronic colitis, regulated the balance between Tfh10, Tfh17 and T follicular regulatory cells, while SSP increased the Blimp-1 level, inhibited expressions of Bcl-6, T-cell costimulator, programmed death (PD)-1 and PD-ligand 1 on the surface of Tfh cells. SSP inhibited activation of BcL-6, phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription (p-STAT)3, signal lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM)-associated protein but improved Blimp-1 and STAT3 expression in colonic tissues. The results indicated that SSP regulated the differentiation and function of Tfh cells to treat IBD, which was potentially related with inhibiting the Bcl-6/Blimp-1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Ke Liu
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Hai-Mei Zhao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Hai-Yan Wang
- Party and School Office, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Department of Proctology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - You-Bao Zhong
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Jian Long
- Department of Postgraduate, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Duan-Yong Liu
- Science and Technology College, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China.,Pharmacology Office, Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Jiangxi, Nanchang, China
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18
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Long Y, Xia C, Xu L, Liu C, Fan C, Bao H, Zhao X, Liu C. The Imbalance of Circulating Follicular Helper T Cells and Follicular Regulatory T Cells Is Associated With Disease Activity in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:104. [PMID: 32117258 PMCID: PMC7034313 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the colon and rectum, in which the abnormality of B cells is involved in both its pathogenesis and progression. Follicular helper T cells (TFH) play an important role in assisting the immune function of human B cells in germinal centers, and follicular regulatory T cells (TFR) have the function of inhibiting TFH and germinal center B cell responses. The significance of circulating TFH and TFR in ulcerative colitis (UC) remains unclear. We analyzed peripheral blood of active and stable remission UC patients and found that circulating TFR was significantly decreased while TFH was increased in active UC patients. As to TFH subsets, TFH2 was elevated while TFH17 was decreased in active UC, with IL-4/IL-17A secretion enhanced. Helios+ and CD45RA−FoxP3high TFR cells were decreased while CD226+ and CD45RA+FoxP3int TFR cells were increased in active UC patients. The levels of new memory B cells, plasmablasts and serum IgG were significantly increased in active UC patients, and were positively correlated with TFH and TFH2, and negatively correlated with TFR. Serum CRP and Mayo Clinic scores were positively correlated with TFH and TFH2 but negatively correlated with TFR. Serum IL-12 and IL-21 were up-regulated while IL-10 was down-regulated in active UC. To conclude, an imbalance of circulating TFH and TFR cells is associated with disease activity in UC patients. Our results suggest a new mechanism for TFH and TFR imbalance in the pathogenesis of UC, providing a new perspective for theoretical research and therapeutic strategies for UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Long
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Changsheng Xia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lijuan Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Caoyi Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chunhong Fan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huizhang Bao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotao Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
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Huang Y, Chen Z, Wang H, Ba X, Shen P, Lin W, Wang Y, Qin K, Huang Y, Tu S. Follicular regulatory T cells: a novel target for immunotherapy? Clin Transl Immunology 2020; 9:e1106. [PMID: 32082569 PMCID: PMC7019198 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
High‐affinity antibodies are produced during multiple processes in germinal centres (GCs), where follicular helper T (Tfh) cells interact closely with B cells to support B‐cell survival, differentiation and proliferation. Recent studies have revealed that a specialised subset of regulatory T cells, follicular regulatory T (Tfr) cells, especially fine‐tune Tfh cells and GC B cells, ultimately regulating GC reactions. Alterations in frequencies or function of Tfr cells may result in multiple autoantibody‐mediated or autoantibody‐associated diseases. This review discusses recent insights into the physiology and pathology of Tfr cells, with a special emphasis on their potential roles in human diseases. Discrepancies are common among studies, reflecting the limited understanding of Tfr cells. Further exploration of the mechanisms of Tfr cells in these diseases and thus targeting Tfr cells may help reinstate immune homeostasis and provide novel immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Hui Wang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Xin Ba
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Pan Shen
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Weiji Lin
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Kai Qin
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Shenghao Tu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
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PDL1 blockage increases fetal resorption and Tfr cells but does not affect Tfh/Tfr ratio and B-cell maturation during allogeneic pregnancy. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:119. [PMID: 32051396 PMCID: PMC7016117 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2313-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A successful pregnancy requires sophisticated regulation of uterine microenvironment to guarantee the existence of semi-allogeneic conceptus without immune rejection. T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells exert a suppressive effect on Tfh-cell expansion, B-cell response, and antibody production. Although accumulating evidence has demonstrated that dysregulations of Tfr cells can bring on various immunological diseases, their immunomodulatory roles during pregnancy still remain unheeded. Herein, we introduced an allogeneic normal-pregnant mouse model and found that CD4+CXCR5hiPD-1hiFoxp3+ Tfr cells were preferentially accumulated in the uterus at mid-gestation and displayed a distinct phenotype. In addition, the absence of PDL1 resulted in increased fetal resorption by favoring Tfr cells accumulation and upregulating PD-1 expression on these cells. However, PDL1 blockade affected neither the ratio of Tfh/Tfr cells nor the maturation and differentiation of B cells. Overall, our results are the first to present a correlation of Tfr cells accumulation with healthy allogeneic pregnancy and PDL1 blockade-induced miscarriage, and to indicate that appropriate assembly of Tfr cells is important for pregnancy maintenance. Since blockade of PD-1-PDL1 pathway leads to more Tfr cells and fetal losses, the reproductive safety must be taken into consideration when PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint blockade immunotherapy is used in pregnancy.
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21
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Fuchs S, Sawas N, Staedler N, Schubert DA, D'Andrea A, Zeiser R, Piali L, Hruz P, Frei AP. High-dimensional single-cell proteomics analysis identifies immune checkpoint signatures and therapeutic targets in ulcerative colitis. Eur J Immunol 2019; 49:462-475. [PMID: 30578679 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201847862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoints are regulators of immune cells and play key roles in the modulation of immune responses. The role of checkpoints in autoimmune disease is poorly understood but likely to be central since checkpoint inhibition during cancer treatment can cause autoimmunity. We generated a high-dimensional single-cell proteomics data set from PBMCs of healthy individuals and patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) by mass cytometry, enabling systems-wide analyses of immune cell frequencies and cell type-specific expression patterns of 12 immune checkpoints. Subtle but significant changes in immune cell frequencies and checkpoint expression were observed between UC patients on different treatment regimens and between patients and healthy controls. Most strikingly, UC patients showed a reduced number of peripheral NK-cells and those cells showed an altered phenotype including increased TIGIT expression. Based on these results, we modulated NK-cell function ex vivo through targeting of TIGIT pathway members. In summary, we describe a pattern of changes in immune cell abundance and checkpoint expression as a basis for UC patient stratification and we show modulation of a corresponding immune cell subset through checkpoint targeting. Our approach can be used for the identification of pathogenic immune cell subsets and guide target selection in autoimmunity and chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Fuchs
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Inflammation and Infectious Diseases (I3) Discovery and Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nadia Sawas
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Inflammation and Infectious Diseases (I3) Discovery and Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Staedler
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, BiOmics, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - David A Schubert
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Inflammation and Infectious Diseases (I3) Discovery and Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Annalisa D'Andrea
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Inflammation and Infectious Diseases (I3) Discovery and Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Robert Zeiser
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Luca Piali
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Inflammation and Infectious Diseases (I3) Discovery and Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Petr Hruz
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas P Frei
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Inflammation and Infectious Diseases (I3) Discovery and Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Wang X, Yang C, Xu F, Qi L, Wang J, Yang P. Imbalance of circulating Tfr/Tfh ratio in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Exp Med 2018; 19:55-64. [DOI: 10.1007/s10238-018-0530-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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23
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Gensous N, Charrier M, Duluc D, Contin-Bordes C, Truchetet ME, Lazaro E, Duffau P, Blanco P, Richez C. T Follicular Helper Cells in Autoimmune Disorders. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1637. [PMID: 30065726 PMCID: PMC6056609 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are a distinct subset of CD4+ T lymphocytes, specialized in B cell help and in regulation of antibody responses. They are required for the generation of germinal center reactions, where selection of high affinity antibody producing B cells and development of memory B cells occur. Owing to the fundamental role of Tfh cells in adaptive immunity, the stringent control of their production and function is critically important, both for the induction of an optimal humoral response against thymus-dependent antigens but also for the prevention of self-reactivity. Indeed, deregulation of Tfh activities can contribute to a pathogenic autoantibody production and can play an important role in the promotion of autoimmune diseases. In the present review, we briefly introduce the molecular factors involved in Tfh cell formation in the context of a normal immune response, as well as markers associated with their identification (transcription factor, surface marker expression, and cytokine production). We then consider in detail the role of Tfh cells in the pathogenesis of a broad range of autoimmune diseases, with a special focus on systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as on the other autoimmune/inflammatory disorders. We summarize the observed alterations in Tfh numbers, activation state, and circulating subset distribution during autoimmune and some other inflammatory disorders. In addition, central role of interleukin-21, major cytokine produced by Tfh cells, is discussed, as well as the involvement of follicular regulatory T cells, which share characteristics with both Tfh and regulatory T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Gensous
- ImmunoConcept, UMR-CNRS 5164, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Manon Charrier
- ImmunoConcept, UMR-CNRS 5164, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Dorothée Duluc
- ImmunoConcept, UMR-CNRS 5164, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | - Estibaliz Lazaro
- ImmunoConcept, UMR-CNRS 5164, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Pierre Duffau
- ImmunoConcept, UMR-CNRS 5164, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Patrick Blanco
- ImmunoConcept, UMR-CNRS 5164, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Christophe Richez
- ImmunoConcept, UMR-CNRS 5164, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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