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Cha S, Kim MY. The role of cellular prion protein in immune system. BMB Rep 2023; 56:645-650. [PMID: 37817440 PMCID: PMC10761747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have investigated the cellular prion protein (PrPC) since its discovery. These investigations have explained that its structure is predominantly composed of alpha helices and short beta sheet segments, and when its abnormal scrapie isoform (PrPSc) is infected, PrPSc transforms the PrPC, leading to prion diseases, including Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans and bovine spongiform encephalopathy in cattle. Given its ubiquitous distribution across a variety of cellular types, the PrPC manifests a diverse range of biological functions, including cell-cell adhesion, neuroprotection, signalings, and oxidative stress response. PrPC is also expressed in immune tissues, and its functions in these tissues include the activation of immune cells and the formation of secondary lymphoid tissues, such as the spleen and lymph nodes. Moreover, high expression of PrPC in immune cells plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of prion diseases. In addition, it affects inflammation and the development and progression of cancer via various mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the studies on the role of PrPC from various immunological perspectives. [BMB Reports 2023; 56(12): 645-650].
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghwa Cha
- Department of Bioinformatics and Life Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea
| | - Mi-Yeon Kim
- Department of Bioinformatics and Life Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea
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Silva De Castro I, Granato A, Mariante RM, Lima MA, Leite ACC, Espindola ODM, Pise-Masison CA, Franchini G, Linden R, Echevarria-Lima J. HTLV-1 p12 modulates the levels of prion protein (PrP C) in CD4 + T cells. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1175679. [PMID: 37637115 PMCID: PMC10449582 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1175679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Infection with human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is endemic in Brazil and is linked with pro-inflammatory conditions including HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), a chronic neuroinflammatory incapacitating disease that culminates in loss of motor functions. The mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of HAM/TSP are incompletely understood. Previous studies have demonstrated that inflammation and infectious agents can affect the expression of cellular prion protein (PrPC) in immune cells. Methods Here, we investigated whether HTLV-1 infection affected PrPC content in cell lines and primary CD4+cells in vitro using flow cytometry and western blot assays. Results We found that HTLV-1 infection decreased the expression levels of PrPC and HTLV-1 Orf I encoded p12, an endoplasmic reticulum resident protein also known to affect post-transcriptionally cellular proteins such as MHC-class I and the IL-2 receptor. In addition, we observed a reduced percentage of CD4+ T cells from infected individuals expressing PrPC, which was reflected by IFN type II but not IL-17 expression. Discussion These results suggested that PrPC downregulation, linked to both HTLV-1 p12 and IFN-γ expression in CD4+ cells, may play a role in the neuropathogenesis of HTLV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabela Silva De Castro
- Laboratório de Imunologia Básica e Aplicada, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Animal Models and Retroviral Vaccines Section, Vaccine Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Alessandra Granato
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rafael Meyer Mariante
- Laboratório de Neurogenesis, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marco Antonio Lima
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Celestino Leite
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Otávio de Melo Espindola
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cynthia A. Pise-Masison
- Animal Models and Retroviral Vaccines Section, Vaccine Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Genoveffa Franchini
- Animal Models and Retroviral Vaccines Section, Vaccine Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rafael Linden
- Laboratório de Neurogenesis, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Juliana Echevarria-Lima
- Laboratório de Imunologia Básica e Aplicada, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Kong Y, Chen Z, Zhang J, Wu L. Neutrophil to High-density Lipoprotein ratio (NHR) as a potential predictor of disease severity and survival time in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:34. [PMID: 36690949 PMCID: PMC9869630 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03076-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a fatal and irreversible neurodegenerative disease. Identification of inexpensive and easy-to-implement biomarkers of CJD which could predict disease severity and patient survival is important for improving disease management. The aim of this study was to assess the predictive value of peripheral neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), monocyte to HDL ratio (MHR) and neutrophil to HDL ratio (NHR) for CJD. METHODS Patients with definite or probable CJD admitted to the Neurology Department of Xuanwu Hospital from 2014 to 2021 were enrolled and followed up until April 2022. Clinical information including sex, age, Barth Index, survival time and results of auxiliary examination were collected, and NLR, HDL, NHR and MHR were measured for all enrolled patients. The associations between NLR, HDL, NHR and MHR, and disease severity (evaluated by Barth Index), survival time and auxiliary examinations were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 88 CJD patients were enrolled and all were deceased. NLR (r = -0.341, p = 0.001), NHR (r = -0.346, p = 0.001) and MHR (r = -0.327, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with disease severity. Higher NHR (HR = 2.344, 95% CI = 1.277-4.303 p = 0.006) and lower HDL (HR = 0.567, 95% CI = 0.346-0.930, p = 0.025) were associated with shorter survival time in the CJD patients. CONCLUSIONS Peripheral inflammatory biomarkers, especially NHR, were associated with disease severity and survival duration. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms and treatment strategies of CJD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Kong
- grid.413259.80000 0004 0632 3337Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongyun Chen
- grid.413259.80000 0004 0632 3337Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- grid.413259.80000 0004 0632 3337Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liyong Wu
- grid.413259.80000 0004 0632 3337Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Cha S, Sin MJ, Kim MJ, Kim HJ, Kim YS, Choi EK, Kim MY. Involvement of Cellular Prion Protein in Invasion and Metastasis of Lung Cancer by Inducing Treg Cell Development. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020285. [PMID: 33671884 PMCID: PMC7918983 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a cell surface glycoprotein expressed in many cell types that plays an important role in normal cellular processes. However, an increase in PrPC expression has been associated with a variety of human cancers, where it may be involved in resistance to the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. PrP-deficient (Prnp0/0) and PrP-overexpressing (Tga20) mice were studied to evaluate the role of PrPC in the invasion and metastasis of cancer. Tga20 mice, with increased PrPC, died more quickly from lung cancer than did the Prnp0/0 mice, and this effect was associated with increased transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1), which are important for the development and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells. The number of FoxP3+CD25+ Treg cells was increased in Tga20 mice compared to Prnp0/0 mice, but there was no significant difference in either natural killer or cytotoxic T cell numbers. In addition, mice infected with the ME7 scrapie strain had decreased numbers of Treg cells and decreased expression of TGF-β and PD-L1. These results suggest that PrPC plays an important role in invasion and metastasis of cancer cells by inducing Treg cells through upregulation of TGF-β and PD-L1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghwa Cha
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea; (S.C.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Mi-Ji Sin
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea; (S.C.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Mo-Jong Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang 14066, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (H.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
- Department of Biomedical Gerontology, Graduate School of Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Hee-Jun Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang 14066, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (H.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
| | - Yong-Sun Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang 14066, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (H.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
| | - Eun-Kyoung Choi
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang 14066, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (H.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
- Department of Biomedical Gerontology, Graduate School of Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Correspondence: (E.-K.C.); (M.-Y.K.)
| | - Mi-Yeon Kim
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea; (S.C.); (M.-J.S.)
- Correspondence: (E.-K.C.); (M.-Y.K.)
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Salvesen Ø, Tatzelt J, Tranulis MA. The prion protein in neuroimmune crosstalk. Neurochem Int 2018; 130:104335. [PMID: 30448564 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a medium-sized glycoprotein, attached to the cell surface by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor. PrPC is encoded by a single-copy gene, PRNP, which is abundantly expressed in the central nervous system and at lower levels in non-neuronal cells, including those of the immune system. Evidence from experimental knockout of PRNP in rodents, goats, and cattle and the occurrence of a nonsense mutation in goat that prevents synthesis of PrPC, have shown that the molecule is non-essential for life. Indeed, no easily recognizable phenotypes are associate with a lack of PrPC, except the potentially advantageous trait that animals without PrPC cannot develop prion disease. This is because, in prion diseases, PrPC converts to a pathogenic "scrapie" conformer, PrPSc, which aggregates and eventually induces neurodegeneration. In addition, endogenous neuronal PrPC serves as a toxic receptor to mediate prion-induced neurotoxicity. Thus, PrPC is an interesting target for treatment of prion diseases. Although loss of PrPC has no discernable effect, alteration of its normal physiological function can have very harmful consequences. It is therefore important to understand cellular processes involving PrPC, and research of this topic has advanced considerably in the past decade. Here, we summarize data that indicate the role of PrPC in modulating immune signaling, with emphasis on neuroimmune crosstalk both under basal conditions and during inflammatory stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Øyvind Salvesen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Sandnes, Norway.
| | - Jörg Tatzelt
- Department Biochemistry of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany.
| | - Michael A Tranulis
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway.
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Kim S, Han S, Kim T, Nam J, Kim YS, Choi EK, Kim MY. Prolonged follicular helper T cell responses in ME7 scrapie-infected mice. Prion 2018; 12:109-116. [PMID: 29617174 DOI: 10.1080/19336896.2018.1458573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that mice intracerebrally inoculated with the mouse-adapted scrapie strain ME7 have markedly diminished T zones in the spleen due to the decreased expression of CCL19 and CCL21. In addition, follicular dendritic cell networks in germinal centers were larger in ME7-infected spleens compared to uninfected spleens. As an extension of that study, we set out to determine how ME7 infection affects spleen structure and follicular helper T (Tfh) cell responses in mice. For this study, mice were intraperitoneally inoculated with brain homogenate of the ME7 inoculum and spleens were analyzed 50, 130, and 200 days after inoculation and compared with those from uninfected mice. The result showed that ME7- infected mice had increased Tfh cell responses which were maintained until end-stage prion disease. Although CD4 T cells decreased in white pulps, they increased in germinal centers, and expressed higher levels of the Tfh-related genes, such as Bcl6, Il21, Cxcr5, Icos, and Pdcd1. In addition, ME7-infected spleens had increased numbers of CD4 memory T cells. These data indicate that although ME7 infection led to impaired splenic white pulp structure, CD4 memory T cells were increased and Tfh cell responses were required and prolonged to provide help for the replication and accumulation of pathogenic prion protein in germinal centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soochan Kim
- a Department of Bioinformatics and Life Science , Soongsil University , Seoul , Korea
| | - Sinsuk Han
- b Department of Biomedical Gerontology , Graduate School of Hallym University , Chuncheon , Korea.,c Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University , Anyang , Korea
| | - Taehyun Kim
- a Department of Bioinformatics and Life Science , Soongsil University , Seoul , Korea
| | - Jeehoon Nam
- a Department of Bioinformatics and Life Science , Soongsil University , Seoul , Korea
| | - Yong-Sun Kim
- c Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University , Anyang , Korea.,d Department of Microbiology , College of Medicine, Hallym University , Chuncheon , Korea
| | - Eun-Kyoung Choi
- b Department of Biomedical Gerontology , Graduate School of Hallym University , Chuncheon , Korea.,c Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University , Anyang , Korea
| | - Mi-Yeon Kim
- a Department of Bioinformatics and Life Science , Soongsil University , Seoul , Korea
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Mabbott NA. How do PrP Sc Prions Spread between Host Species, and within Hosts? Pathogens 2017; 6:pathogens6040060. [PMID: 29186791 PMCID: PMC5750584 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens6040060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are sub-acute neurodegenerative diseases that affect humans and some domestic and free-ranging animals. Infectious prion agents are considered to comprise solely of abnormally folded isoforms of the cellular prion protein known as PrPSc. Pathology during prion disease is restricted to the central nervous system where it causes extensive neurodegeneration and ultimately leads to the death of the host. The first half of this review provides a thorough account of our understanding of the various ways in which PrPSc prions may spread between individuals within a population, both horizontally and vertically. Many natural prion diseases are acquired peripherally, such as by oral exposure, lesions to skin or mucous membranes, and possibly also via the nasal cavity. Following peripheral exposure, some prions accumulate to high levels within the secondary lymphoid organs as they make their journey from the site of infection to the brain, a process termed neuroinvasion. The replication of PrPSc prions within secondary lymphoid organs is important for their efficient spread to the brain. The second half of this review describes the key tissues, cells and molecules which are involved in the propagation of PrPSc prions from peripheral sites of exposure (such as the lumen of the intestine) to the brain. This section also considers how additional factors such as inflammation and aging might influence prion disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A Mabbott
- The Roslin Institute & Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK
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Wu GR, Mu TC, Gao ZX, Wang J, Sy MS, Li CY. Prion protein is required for tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)-triggered nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling and cytokine production. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:18747-18759. [PMID: 28900035 PMCID: PMC5704461 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.787283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of normal cellular prion protein (PrP) is required for the pathogenesis of prion diseases. However, the physiological functions of PrP remain ambiguous. Here, we identified PrP as being critical for tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α-triggered signaling in a human melanoma cell line, M2, and a pancreatic ductal cell adenocarcinoma cell line, BxPC-3. In M2 cells, TNFα up-regulates the expression of p-IκB-kinase α/β (p-IKKα/β), p-p65, and p-JNK, but down-regulates the IκBα protein, all of which are downstream signaling intermediates in the TNF receptor signaling cascade. When PRNP is deleted in M2 cells, the effects of TNFα are no longer detectable. More importantly, p-p65 and p-JNK responses are restored when PRNP is reintroduced into the PRNP null cells. TNFα also activates NF-κB and increases TNFα production in wild-type M2 cells, but not in PrP-null M2 cells. Similar results are obtained in the BxPC-3 cells. Moreover, TNFα activation of NF-κB requires ubiquitination of receptor-interacting serine/threonine kinase 1 (RIP1) and TNF receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2). TNFα treatment increases the binding between PrP and the deubiquitinase tumor suppressor cylindromatosis (CYLD), in these treated cells, binding of CYLD to RIP1 and TRAF2 is reduced. We conclude that PrP traps CYLD, preventing it from binding and deubiquitinating RIP1 and TRAF2. Our findings reveal that PrP enhances the responses to TNFα, promoting proinflammatory cytokine production, which may contribute to inflammation and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Ru Wu
- From the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Virology, 44 Xiao Hong Shan Zhong Qu, Wuhan 430071, China.,the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Tian-Chen Mu
- the Department of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430010, China
| | - Zhen-Xing Gao
- From the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Virology, 44 Xiao Hong Shan Zhong Qu, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jun Wang
- From the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Virology, 44 Xiao Hong Shan Zhong Qu, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Man-Sun Sy
- the Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, and
| | - Chao-Yang Li
- From the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Virology, 44 Xiao Hong Shan Zhong Qu, Wuhan 430071, China, .,the Wuhan Brain Hospital, No. 5 Huiji Road, Jiang'an District, Wuhan 430010, China
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Mabbott NA. Immunology of Prion Protein and Prions. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2017; 150:203-240. [PMID: 28838662 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Many natural prion diseases are acquired peripherally, such as following the oral consumption of contaminated food or pasture. After peripheral exposure many prion isolates initially accumulate to high levels within the host's secondary lymphoid tissues. The replication of prions within these tissues is essential for their efficient spread to the brain where they ultimately cause neurodegeneration. This chapter describes our current understanding of the critical tissues, cells, and molecules which the prions exploit to mediate their efficient propagation from the site of exposure (such as the intestine) to the brain. Interactions between the immune system and prions are not only restricted to the secondary lymphoid tissues. Therefore, an account of how the activation status of the microglial in the brain can also influence progression of prion disease pathogenesis is provided. Prion disease susceptibility may also be influenced by additional factors such as chronic inflammation, coinfection with other pathogens, and aging. Finally, the potential for immunotherapy to provide a means of safe and effective prophylactic or therapeutic intervention in these currently untreatable diseases is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A Mabbott
- The Roslin Institute & Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, United Kingdom.
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Castle AR, Gill AC. Physiological Functions of the Cellular Prion Protein. Front Mol Biosci 2017; 4:19. [PMID: 28428956 PMCID: PMC5382174 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2017.00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The prion protein, PrPC, is a small, cell-surface glycoprotein notable primarily for its critical role in pathogenesis of the neurodegenerative disorders known as prion diseases. A hallmark of prion diseases is the conversion of PrPC into an abnormally folded isoform, which provides a template for further pathogenic conversion of PrPC, allowing disease to spread from cell to cell and, in some circumstances, to transfer to a new host. In addition to the putative neurotoxicity caused by the misfolded form(s), loss of normal PrPC function could be an integral part of the neurodegenerative processes and, consequently, significant research efforts have been directed toward determining the physiological functions of PrPC. In this review, we first summarise important aspects of the biochemistry of PrPC before moving on to address the current understanding of the various proposed functions of the protein, including details of the underlying molecular mechanisms potentially involved in these functions. Over years of study, PrPC has been associated with a wide array of different cellular processes and many interacting partners have been suggested. However, recent studies have cast doubt on the previously well-established links between PrPC and processes such as stress-protection, copper homeostasis and neuronal excitability. Instead, the functions best-supported by the current literature include regulation of myelin maintenance and of processes linked to cellular differentiation, including proliferation, adhesion, and control of cell morphology. Intriguing connections have also been made between PrPC and the modulation of circadian rhythm, glucose homeostasis, immune function and cellular iron uptake, all of which warrant further investigation.
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Prion Protein Family Contributes to Tumorigenesis via Multiple Pathways. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1018:207-224. [PMID: 29052140 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-5765-6_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
A wealth of evidence suggests that proteins from prion protein (PrP) family contribute to tumorigenesis in many types of cancers, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), breast cancer, glioblastoma, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, melanoma, etc. It is well documented that PrP is a biomarker for PDAC, breast cancer, and gastric cancer. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The major reasons for cancer cell-caused patient death are metastasis and multiple drug resistance, both of which connect to physiological functions of PrP expressing in cancer cells. PrP enhances tumorigenesis by multiple pathways. For example, PrP existed as pro-PrP in most of the PDAC cell lines, thus increasing cancer cell motility by binding to cytoskeletal protein filamin A (FLNa). Using PDAC cell lines BxPC-3 and AsPC-1 as model system, we identified that dysfunction of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor synthesis machinery resulted in the biogenesis of pro-PrP. In addition, in cancer cells without FLNa expression, pro-PrP can modify cytoskeleton structure by affecting cofilin/F-actin axis, thus influencing cancer cell movement. Besides pro-PrP, we showed that GPI-anchored unglycosylated PrP can elevate cell mobility by interacting with VEGFR2, thus stimulating cell migration under serum-free condition. Besides affecting cancer cell motility, overexpressed PrP or doppel (Dpl) in cancer cells has been shown to increase cell proliferation, multiple drug resistance, and angiogenesis, thus, proteins from PrP gene family by affecting important processes via multiple pathways for cancer cell growth exacerbating tumorigenesis.
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Kim S, Han S, Lee YE, Jung WJ, Lee HS, Kim YS, Choi EK, Kim MY. Prion protein-deficient mice exhibit decreased CD4 T and LTi cell numbers and impaired spleen structure. Immunobiology 2016; 221:94-102. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2015.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Bakkebø MK, Mouillet-Richard S, Espenes A, Goldmann W, Tatzelt J, Tranulis MA. The Cellular Prion Protein: A Player in Immunological Quiescence. Front Immunol 2015; 6:450. [PMID: 26388873 PMCID: PMC4557099 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite intensive studies since the 1990s, the physiological role of the cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) remains elusive. Here, we present a novel concept suggesting that PrP(C) contributes to immunological quiescence in addition to cell protection. PrP(C) is highly expressed in diverse organs that by multiple means are particularly protected from inflammation, such as the brain, eye, placenta, pregnant uterus, and testes, while at the same time it is expressed in most cells of the lymphoreticular system. In this paradigm, PrP(C) serves two principal roles: to modulate the inflammatory potential of immune cells and to protect vulnerable parenchymal cells against noxious insults generated through inflammation. Here, we review studies of PrP(C) physiology in view of this concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren K. Bakkebø
- Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Arild Espenes
- Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Wilfred Goldmann
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jörg Tatzelt
- Biochemistry of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Michael A. Tranulis
- Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway,*Correspondence: Michael A. Tranulis, Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Campus Adamstuen, Oslo 0033, Norway,
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Reiten MR, Bakkebø MK, Brun-Hansen H, Lewandowska-Sabat AM, Olsaker I, Tranulis MA, Espenes A, Boysen P. Hematological shift in goat kids naturally devoid of prion protein. Front Cell Dev Biol 2015. [PMID: 26217662 PMCID: PMC4495340 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2015.00044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The physiological role of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) is incompletely understood. The expression of PrPC in hematopoietic stem cells and immune cells suggests a role in the development of these cells, and in PrPC knockout animals altered immune cell proliferation and phagocytic function have been observed. Recently, a spontaneous nonsense mutation at codon 32 in the PRNP gene in goats of the Norwegian Dairy breed was discovered, rendering homozygous animals devoid of PrPC. Here we report hematological and immunological analyses of homozygous goat kids lacking PrPC (PRNPTer/Ter) compared to heterozygous (PRNP+/Ter) and normal (PRNP+/+) kids. Levels of cell surface PrPC and PRNP mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) correlated well and were very low in PRNPTer/Ter, intermediate in PRNP+/Ter and high in PRNP+/+ kids. The PRNPTer/Ter animals had a shift in blood cell composition with an elevated number of red blood cells (RBCs) and a tendency toward a smaller mean RBC volume (P = 0.08) and an increased number of neutrophils (P = 0.068), all values within the reference ranges. Morphological investigations of blood smears and bone marrow imprints did not reveal irregularities. Studies of relative composition of PBMCs, phagocytic ability of monocytes and T-cell proliferation revealed no significant differences between the genotypes. Our data suggest that PrPC has a role in bone marrow physiology and warrant further studies of PrPC in erythroid and immune cell progenitors as well as differentiated effector cells also under stressful conditions. Altogether, this genetically unmanipulated PrPC-free animal model represents a unique opportunity to unveil the enigmatic physiology and function of PrPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin R Reiten
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences Oslo, Norway
| | - Maren K Bakkebø
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences Oslo, Norway
| | - Hege Brun-Hansen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences Oslo, Norway
| | - Anna M Lewandowska-Sabat
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingrid Olsaker
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences Oslo, Norway
| | - Michael A Tranulis
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences Oslo, Norway
| | - Arild Espenes
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences Oslo, Norway
| | - Preben Boysen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences Oslo, Norway
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Black SAG, Stys PK, Zamponi GW, Tsutsui S. Cellular prion protein and NMDA receptor modulation: protecting against excitotoxicity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2014; 2:45. [PMID: 25364752 PMCID: PMC4207032 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2014.00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it is well established that misfolding of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) into the β-sheet-rich, aggregated scrapie conformation (PrPSc) causes a variety of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), the physiological roles of PrPC are still incompletely understood. There is accumulating evidence describing the roles of PrPC in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. Recently, we identified a functional regulation of NMDA receptors by PrPC that involves formation of a physical protein complex between these proteins. Excessive NMDA receptor activity during conditions such as ischemia mediates enhanced Ca2+ entry into cells and contributes to excitotoxic neuronal death. In addition, NMDA receptors and/or PrPC play critical roles in neuroinflammation and glial cell toxicity. Inhibition of NMDA receptor activity protects against PrPSc-induced neuronal death. Moreover, in mice lacking PrPC, infarct size is increased after focal cerebral ischemia, and absence of PrPC increases susceptibility of neurons to NMDA receptor-dependent death. Recently, PrPC was found to be a receptor for oligomeric beta-amyloid (Aβ) peptides, suggesting a role for PrPC in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our recent findings suggest that Aβ peptides enhance NMDA receptor current by perturbing the normal copper- and PrPC-dependent regulation of these receptors. Here, we review evidence highlighting a role for PrPC in preventing NMDA receptor-mediated excitotoxicity and inflammation. There is a need for more detailed molecular characterization of PrPC-mediated regulation of NMDA receptors, such as determining which NMDA receptor subunits mediate pathogenic effects upon loss of PrPC-mediated regulation and identifying PrPC binding site(s) on the receptor. This knowledge will allow development of novel therapeutic interventions for not only TSEs, but also for AD and other neurodegenerative disorders involving dysfunction of PrPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie A G Black
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada ; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Peter K Stys
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada ; Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Gerald W Zamponi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada ; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Shigeki Tsutsui
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada ; Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada
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Yang X, Zhang Y, Zhang L, He T, Zhang J, Li C. Prion protein and cancers. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2014; 46:431-40. [PMID: 24681883 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmu019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The normal cellular prion protein, PrP(C) is a highly conserved and widely expressed cell surface glycoprotein in all mammals. The expression of PrP is pivotal in the pathogenesis of prion diseases; however, the normal physiological functions of PrP(C) remain incompletely understood. Based on the studies in cell models, a plethora of functions have been attributed to PrP(C). In this paper, we reviewed the potential roles that PrP(C) plays in cell physiology and focused on its contribution to tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Yang
- Department of the First Abdominal Surgery, Jiangxi Tumor Hospital, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lihua Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Tianlin He
- Department of General Surgery, Changhai Hospital of Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi 832000, China
| | - Chaoyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
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Cho IS, Spinner DS, Kascsak RJ, Meeker HC, Kim BS, Park SY, Schuller-Levis G, Park E. Altered lymphocyte proliferation and innate immune function in scrapie 139A- and ME7-infected mice. Viral Immunol 2013; 26:192-200. [PMID: 23656168 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2012.0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphoid organs play an important role in prion disease development and progression. While the role of lymphoid organs and changes in immune-related genes have been extensively investigated in scrapie-infected animals, innate immunity has not. Previous studies examined lymphocyte function in scrapie-infected C3H/HeJ mice, which exhibit defects in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) response now known to result from a mutation in Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4. We examined immune function in scrapie-infected CD1 mice, which are LPS responders. Lymphocyte proliferation from CD1 mice infected with either 139A or ME7 scrapie was measured in response to concanavalin (Con) A or LPS at 1 and 3 months after infection. Following LPS exposure, mice infected 3 months with ME7, but not 139A, demonstrated significantly decreased lymphocyte proliferation compared to controls. After Con A exposure, lymphocyte proliferation in scrapie-infected mice did not differ from controls. Gender-specific comparison of lymphocyte proliferation showed significant decreases in mitogenic responses in females infected 3 months with either 139A or ME7, compared to controls. Males infected for 3 months with ME7, but not 139A, showed significantly decreased proliferation after lymphocyte exposure to LPS, but not Con A. Neither gender showed changes in lymphocyte proliferation after 1 month of scrapie infection. Innate immune activation of peritoneal macrophages was determined via production of nitric oxide (NO), IL-6, and TNF-α after exposure to TLR ligands. TNF-α and IL-6 production were reduced in macrophages from females infected with either scrapie strain for 3 months, while NO production after TLR agonist plus IFN-γ exposure was decreased in both females and males infected for 3 months with 139A, compared to ME7. These data demonstrated altered innate immunity, suggesting hormonal and/or other gender-specific regulation may contribute to gender differences in some immune functions. Our data demonstrate lymphocyte proliferation and innate immune functioning in scrapie-infected mice deteriorate with disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Soo Cho
- Animal, Plant and Fisheries Quarantine and Inspection Agency, Anyang, Gyunggi-do, Republic of Korea
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Abstract
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), or prion diseases, are neurological diseases that can be transmitted through a number of different routes. A wide range of mammalian species are affected by the disease. After peripheral exposure, some TSE agents accumulate in lymphoid tissues at an early stage of disease prior to spreading to the nerves and the brain. Much research has focused on identifying the cells and molecules involved in the transmission of TSE agents from the site of exposure to the brain and several crucial cell types have been associated with this process. The identification of the key cells that influence the different stages of disease transmission might identify targets for therapeutic intervention. This review highlights the involvement of mononuclear phagocytes in TSE disease. Current data suggest these cells may exhibit a diverse range of roles in TSE disease from the transport or destruction of TSE agents in lymphoid tissues, to mediators or protectors of neuropathology in the brain.
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Gourdain P, Ballerini C, Nicot AB, Carnaud C. Exacerbation of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in prion protein (PrPc)-null mice: evidence for a critical role of the central nervous system. J Neuroinflammation 2012; 9:25. [PMID: 22281016 PMCID: PMC3305405 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-9-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cellular prion protein (PrPc) is a host-encoded glycoprotein whose transconformation into PrP scrapie (PrPSc) initiates prion diseases. The role of PrPc in health is still obscure, but many candidate functions have been attributed to the protein, both in the immune and the nervous systems. Recent data show that experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is worsened in mice lacking PrPc. Disease exacerbation has been attributed to T cells that would differentiate into more aggressive effectors when deprived of PrPc. However, alternative interpretations such as reduced resistance of neurons to autoimmune insult and exacerbated gliosis leading to neuronal deficits were not considered. METHOD To better discriminate the contribution of immune cells versus neural cells, reciprocal bone marrow chimeras with differential expression of PrPc in the lymphoid or in the central nervous system (CNS) were generated. Mice were subsequently challenged with MOG35-55 peptide and clinical disease as well as histopathology were compared in both groups. Furthermore, to test directly the T cell hypothesis, we compared the encephalitogenicity of adoptively transferred PrPc-deficient versus PrPc-sufficient, anti-MOG T cells. RESULTS First, EAE exacerbation in PrPc-deficient mice was confirmed. Irradiation exacerbated EAE in all the chimeras and controls, but disease was more severe in mice with a PrPc-deleted CNS and a normal immune system than in the reciprocal construction. Moreover, there was no indication that anti-MOG responses were different in PrPc-sufficient and PrPc-deficient mice. Paradoxically, PrPc-deficient anti-MOG 2D2 T cells were less pathogenic than PrPc-expressing 2D2 T cells. CONCLUSIONS In view of the present data, it can be concluded that the origin of EAE exacerbation in PrPc-ablated mice resides in the absence of the prion protein in the CNS. Furthermore, the absence of PrPc on both neural and immune cells does not synergize for disease worsening. These conclusions highlight the critical role of PrPc in maintaining the integrity of the CNS in situations of stress, especially during a neuroinflammatory insult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Gourdain
- INSERM, UMR S 938, Centre de Recherche Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
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21
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Williams SK, Fairless R, Weise J, Kalinke U, Schulz-Schaeffer W, Diem R. Neuroprotective effects of the cellular prion protein in autoimmune optic neuritis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 178:2823-31. [PMID: 21641403 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2011.02.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2010] [Revised: 02/15/2011] [Accepted: 02/23/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Although the pathologic role of the prion protein in transmissible spongiform encephalopathic diseases has been widely investigated, the physiologic role of the cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) is not known. Among the many functions attributed to PrP(C), there is increasing evidence that it is involved in cell survival and mediates neuroprotection. A potential role in the immune response has also been suggested. However, how these two functions interplay in autoimmune disease is unclear. To address this, autoimmune optic neuritis, a model of multiple sclerosis, was induced in C57Bl/6 mice, and up-regulation of PrP(C) was observed throughout the disease course. In addition, compared with wild-type mice, in PrP(C)-deficient mice and mice overexpressing PrP(C), histopathologic analysis demonstrated that optic neuritis was exacerbated, as indicated by axonal degeneration, inflammatory infiltration, and demyelination. However, significant neuroprotection of retinal ganglion cells, the axons of which form the optic nerve, was observed in mice that overexpressed PrP(C). Conversely, mice lacking PrP(C) demonstrated significantly more neurodegeneration. This suggests that PrP(C) may have a neuroprotective function independent of its role in regulating the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Williams
- Department of Neurology, University of the Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
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22
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Ingram RJ, Isaacs JD, Kaur G, Lowther DE, Reynolds CJ, Boyton RJ, Collinge J, Jackson GS, Altmann DM. A role of cellular prion protein in programming T‐cell cytokine responses in disease. FASEB J 2009; 23:1672-84. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.08-116087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Ingram
- Human Disease Immunogenetics GroupDepartment of Infectious Diseases and ImmunityHammersmith HospitalImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Jeremy D. Isaacs
- Human Disease Immunogenetics GroupDepartment of Infectious Diseases and ImmunityHammersmith HospitalImperial College LondonLondonUK
- MRC Prion UnitDepartment of Neurodegenerative DiseaseInstitute of NeurologyUniversity College LondonQueen SquareLondonUK
| | - Gurman Kaur
- Human Disease Immunogenetics GroupDepartment of Infectious Diseases and ImmunityHammersmith HospitalImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Daniel E. Lowther
- Human Disease Immunogenetics GroupDepartment of Infectious Diseases and ImmunityHammersmith HospitalImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Catherine J. Reynolds
- Lung Immunology GroupImmunology and InfectionNHLISir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington CampusLondonUK
| | - Rosemary J. Boyton
- Lung Immunology GroupImmunology and InfectionNHLISir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington CampusLondonUK
| | - John Collinge
- MRC Prion UnitDepartment of Neurodegenerative DiseaseInstitute of NeurologyUniversity College LondonQueen SquareLondonUK
| | - Graham S. Jackson
- MRC Prion UnitDepartment of Neurodegenerative DiseaseInstitute of NeurologyUniversity College LondonQueen SquareLondonUK
| | - Daniel M. Altmann
- Human Disease Immunogenetics GroupDepartment of Infectious Diseases and ImmunityHammersmith HospitalImperial College LondonLondonUK
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23
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Krupinski J, Turu MM, Luque A, Badimon L, Slevin M. Increased PrPC expression correlates with endoglin (CD105) positive microvessels in advanced carotid lesions. Acta Neuropathol 2008; 116:537-45. [PMID: 18810471 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-008-0427-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2008] [Revised: 08/21/2008] [Accepted: 08/21/2008] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Normal cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) has multiple functions but its role in the development of atherosclerosis has not been studied. Our pilot microarray data showed increased expression of PrP(C) in tissue samples of complicated carotid lesions. Therefore in this study, we aimed to investigate its localisation within atherosclerotic arteries and its concentration in patient plasma. PrP(C) expression was examined using an enzyme immunometric assay (EIA) in plasma from patients undergoing endarterectomy. Carotid specimens and control vascular transplants were studied for PrP(C) and CD105 (endoglin, a marker of active vessels) expression by immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR. Patients with carotid disease had higher levels of plasma PrP(C) than the control group [4.35 ng/ml (n = 22; 3.1-5.3) vs. 1.95 ng/ml (n = 21; 1.1-2.5), P < 0.001]. Furthermore, CD105-positive plaques had higher PrP(C) expression which colocalized with CD105 in neovessels. There was a significant correlation between mRNA expression of PrP(C) and CD105 in tested plaques (P < 0.001; r = 0.7) supporting our immunohistochemical findings. We conclude that PrP(C) is expressed in carotid specimens and may be associated with neovessel growth or survival in these plaques. Our results suggest a role for PrP(C) in modulating neovessel formation in complicated plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerzy Krupinski
- Department of Neurology, Stroke Unit, University Hospital of Bellvitge (HUB), Fundacio IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
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24
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Zabel M, Greenwood C, Thackray AM, Pulford B, Rens W, Bujdoso R. Perturbation of T-cell development by insertional mutation of a PrP transgene. Immunology 2008; 127:226-36. [PMID: 19143847 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2567.2008.02944.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The normal cellular form of the prion protein PrP(C) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-linked cell-surface glycoprotein expressed primarily by cells of the nervous and immune systems. There is evidence to suggest that PrP(C) is involved in cell signalling and cellular homeostasis. We have investigated the immune composition of peripheral lymphoid tissue in PrP-/-, wild-type, tg19 and tga20 strains of mice, which express 0, 1-, 3-5- and 4-7-fold higher levels of PrP(C), respectively, relative to wild-type mice. Our data show that tga20 mice have a reduced number of spleen T-cell receptor (TCR)-alphabeta(+) T cells and an increased number of TCR-gammadelta(+) T cells compared with wild-type mice. This was not seen in tg19 mice, which also express elevated levels of PrP(C). In addition, we have found that the Prnp transgene in the tga20 genome is located centrally on chromosome 17, in or around genes involved in T-cell development. Significantly, mRNA transcripts from pre-TCR-alpha (pTalpha), a T-cell development gene located on mouse chromosome 17, are drastically reduced in tga20 mice, indicative of a perturbation in pTalpha gene regulation. We propose that the immune cell phenotype of tga20 mice may be caused by the insertional mutation of the Prnp transgene into the pTalpha gene or its regulatory elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Zabel
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, USA
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25
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Tsutsui S, Hahn JN, Johnson TA, Ali Z, Jirik FR. Absence of the cellular prion protein exacerbates and prolongs neuroinflammation in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2008; 173:1029-41. [PMID: 18815152 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2008.071062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Although the physiological roles of the cellular prion protein (PrP C) remain to be fully elucidated, PrP C has been proposed to represent a potential regulator of cellular immunity. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated the consequences of PrP C deficiency on the course of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis induced by immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide. Consistent with augmented proliferative responses and increased cytokine gene expression by myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-primed Prnp-/- T cells, PrP C-deficient mice demonstrated more aggressive disease onset and a lack of clinical improvement during the chronic phase of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Acutely, Prnp-/- spinal cord, cerebellum, and forebrain exhibited higher levels of leukocytic infiltrates and pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression, as well as increased spinal cord myelin basic protein and axonal loss. During the chronic phase, a remarkable persistence of leukocytic infiltrates was present in the forebrain and cerebellum, accompanied by an increase in interferon-gamma and interleukin-17 transcripts. Attenuation of T cell-dependent neuroinflammation thus represents a potential novel function of PrP C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeki Tsutsui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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26
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Linden R, Martins VR, Prado MAM, Cammarota M, Izquierdo I, Brentani RR. Physiology of the prion protein. Physiol Rev 2008; 88:673-728. [PMID: 18391177 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00007.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 435] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), attributed to conformational conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) into an abnormal conformer that accumulates in the brain. Understanding the pathogenesis of TSEs requires the identification of functional properties of PrP(C). Here we examine the physiological functions of PrP(C) at the systemic, cellular, and molecular level. Current data show that both the expression and the engagement of PrP(C) with a variety of ligands modulate the following: 1) functions of the nervous and immune systems, including memory and inflammatory reactions; 2) cell proliferation, differentiation, and sensitivity to programmed cell death both in the nervous and immune systems, as well as in various cell lines; 3) the activity of numerous signal transduction pathways, including cAMP/protein kinase A, mitogen-activated protein kinase, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathways, as well as soluble non-receptor tyrosine kinases; and 4) trafficking of PrP(C) both laterally among distinct plasma membrane domains, and along endocytic pathways, on top of continuous, rapid recycling. A unified view of these functional properties indicates that the prion protein is a dynamic cell surface platform for the assembly of signaling modules, based on which selective interactions with many ligands and transmembrane signaling pathways translate into wide-range consequences upon both physiology and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Linden
- Instituto de Biofísica da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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27
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Isaacs JD, Garden OA, Kaur G, Collinge J, Jackson GS, Altmann DM. The cellular prion protein is preferentially expressed by CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. Immunology 2008; 125:313-9. [PMID: 18462346 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2567.2008.02853.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modification of the cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) is intimately associated with the pathogenesis of prion disease, yet the normal function of the protein remains unclear. PrP(C) is expressed in lymphoid cells and is known to be a T-cell activation antigen. Further, transcription profiling studies of regulatory T cells have shown preferential overexpression of PrP(C), suggesting a possible role in regulatory function. We report that both the expression of PrP message and cell surface PrP(C) levels are increased in murine CD4(+) CD25(+) regulatory T cells compared with CD4(+) CD25(-) cells. However, PrP(0/0) mice do not show altered regulatory T-cell numbers or forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) expression levels, or impaired regulatory T-cell function in vitro. Nevertheless, the preferential expression of surface PrP(C) by regulatory T cells raises the possibility that therapeutic ligation of PrP(C) might alter immune regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy D Isaacs
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
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28
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Hu W, Kieseier B, Frohman E, Eagar TN, Rosenberg RN, Hartung HP, Stüve O. Prion proteins: Physiological functions and role in neurological disorders. J Neurol Sci 2008; 264:1-8. [PMID: 17707411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2007.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2007] [Revised: 05/01/2007] [Accepted: 06/08/2007] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Stanley Prusiner was the first to promote the concept of misfolded proteins as a cause for neurological disease. It has since been shown by him and other investigators that the scrapie isoform of prion protein (PrP(Sc)) functions as an infectious agent in numerous human and non-human disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). Interestingly, other organ systems appear to be less affected, and do not appear to lead to major co-morbidities. The physiological function of the endogenous cellular form of the prion protein (PrP(C)) is much less clear. It is intriguing that PrP(c) is expressed on most tissues in mammals, suggesting not only biological functions outside the CNS, but also a role other than the propagation of its misfolded isotype. In this review, we summarize accumulating in vitro and in vivo evidence regarding the physiological functions of PrP(C) in the nervous system, as well as in lymphoid organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hu
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, TX 75390-9036, United States
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29
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Gains MJ, LeBlanc AC. Canadian Association of Neurosciences Review: prion protein and prion diseases: the good and the bad. Can J Neurol Sci 2007; 34:126-45. [PMID: 17598589 DOI: 10.1017/s0317167100005953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the 1700's a strange new disease affecting sheep was recognized in Europe. The disease later became known as "Scrapie" and was the first of a family of similar diseases affecting a number of species that are now known as the Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs). The appearance of a new disease in humans linked to the consumption of meat products from infected cattle has stimulated widespread public concern and scientific interest in the prion protein and related diseases. Nearly 300 years after the first report, these diseases still merit the descriptor "strange". This family of diseases is characterized by a unique profile of histological changes, can be transmitted as inherited or acquired diseases, as well as apparent sporadic spontaneous generation of the disease. These diseases are believed by many, to be caused by a unique protein only infectious agent. The "prion protein" (PrPC), a term first coined by Stanley Prusiner in 1982 is crucial to the development of these diseases, apparently by acting as a substrate for an abnormal disease associated form. However, aside from being critical to the pathogenesis of the disease, the function of PrPC, which is expressed in all mammals, has defied definitive description. Several roles have been proposed on the basis of in vitro studies, however, thus far, in vivo confirmation has not been forthcoming. The biological features of PrPC also seem to be unusual. Numerous mouse models have been generated in an attempt to understand the pathogenesis of these diseases. This review summarizes the current state of histological features, the etiologic agent, the normal metabolism and the function of the prion protein, as well as the limitations of the mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm J Gains
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
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30
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Abstract
The biological role of the scrapie isoform of prion protein (PrP(Sc)) as an infectious agent in numerous human and non-human disorders of the central nervous system is well established. In contrast, and despite decades of intensive research, the physiological function of the endogenous cellular form of the prion protein (PrP(C)) remains elusive. In mammals, the ubiquitous expression of PrP(C) suggests biological functions other than its pathological role in propagating the accumulation of its misfolded isotype. Other functions that have been attributed to PrP(C) include signal transduction, synaptic transmission and protection against cell death through the apoptotic pathway. More recently, immunoregulatory properties of PrP(C) have been reported. We review accumulating in vitro and in vivo evidence regarding physiological functions of PrP(C).
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Affiliation(s)
- W Hu
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Dallas, TX 75390-9036, USA
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Kim CK, Hirose Y, Sakudo A, Takeyama N, Kang CB, Taniuchi Y, Matsumoto Y, Itohara S, Sakaguchi S, Onodera T. Reduced response of splenocytes after mitogen-stimulation in the prion protein (PrP) gene-deficient mouse: PrPLP/Doppel production and cerebral degeneration. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 358:469-74. [PMID: 17498663 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.04.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2007] [Revised: 04/20/2007] [Accepted: 04/20/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Splenocytes of wild-type (Prnp(+/+)) and prion protein gene-deficient (Prnp(-/-)) mice were treated with various activation stimuli such as T cell mitogen concanavalin A (ConA), phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)+ionomycin (Io), or B cell mitogen lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) expression was enhanced following ConA stimulation, but not PMA+Io or LPS in Prnp(+/+) splenocytes. Rikn Prnp(-/-) splenocytes elicited lower cell proliferations than Prnp(+/+) or Zrch I Prnp(-/-) splenocytes after LPS stimulation and showed sporadic nerve cells in the cerebral cortex and deeper structure. Around the degenerated nerve cells, mild vacuolation in the neuropil was observed. This neural alteration correlated well to the suppressed response of B cells in the spleen. The finding that discrete lesions within the central nervous systems induced marked modulation of immune function probably indicates the existence of a delicately balanced neural-endocrine network by PrP(C) and PrPLP/Doppel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Kyeong Kim
- Department of Molecular Immunology, School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Paar C, Wurm S, Pfarr W, Sonnleitner A, Wechselberger C. Prion protein resides in membrane microclusters of the immunological synapse during lymphocyte activation. Eur J Cell Biol 2007; 86:253-64. [PMID: 17449139 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2007.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2006] [Revised: 01/19/2007] [Accepted: 03/07/2007] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Expression of prion protein (PrP) has been reported for a variety of cell types including neuronal cells, haematopoietic stem cells, antigen-presenting cells, as well as lymphocytes. However, besides this widespread occurrence little is known about the physiological roles exhibited by this enigmatic protein. In this study, the contribution of PrP to the classical T-lymphocyte activation process was characterized by clustering the T-cell receptor component CD3epsilon as well as PrP with soluble and surface-immobilized antibodies, respectively. We present evidence that PrP is a component of signaling structures recently described as plasma membrane microclusters established during T-lymphocyte activation. The formation of immunological synapses, however, did not depend on the presence of PrP as proven by siRNA knockdown experiments, indicating very subtle physiological roles of PrP in vivo within the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Paar
- Upper Austrian Research GmbH, Center for Biomedical Nanotechnology, Scharitzerstrasse 6-8, A-4020 Linz, Austria
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Nitschke C, Flechsig E, van den Brandt J, Lindner N, Lührs T, Dittmer U, Klein MA. Immunisation strategies against prion diseases: prime-boost immunisation with a PrP DNA vaccine containing foreign helper T-cell epitopes does not prevent mouse scrapie. Vet Microbiol 2007; 123:367-76. [PMID: 17499458 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2007.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination against prion diseases constitutes a promising approach for the treatment and prevention of the disease. Passive immunisation with antibodies binding to the cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) can protect against prion disease. However, immunotherapeutic strategies with active immunisation are limited due to the immune tolerance against the self-antigen. In order to develop an anti-prion vaccine, we designed a novel DNA fusion vaccine composed of mouse PrP and immune stimulatory helper T-cell epitopes of the tetanus toxin that have previously been reported to break tolerance to other self-antigens. This approach provoked a strong PrP(C)-specific humoral and cellular immune response in PrP null mice, but only low antibody titres were found in vaccinated wild-type mice. Furthermore, prime-boost immunisation with the DNA vaccine and recombinant PrP protein increased antibody titres in PrP null mice, but failed to protect wild-type mice from mouse scrapie.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Nitschke
- Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, University of Wuerzburg, Versbacherstr. 7, D-97078 Wuerzburg, Germany
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Eaton SL, Rocchi M, González L, Hamilton S, Finlayson J, Sales J, Jeffrey M, Steele PJ, Dagleish MP, Rodger SM, Reid HW, Chianini F. Immunological differences between susceptible and resistant sheep during the preclinical phase of scrapie infection. J Gen Virol 2007; 88:1384-1391. [PMID: 17374786 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.82197-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to investigate the relationship between the immune response to scrapie infection and genetic susceptibility to the disease in sheep, immune cell subsets and prion protein (PrP) expression were determined in susceptible and resistant Suffolk sheep in the preclinical phase of infection. At 6 months of age, 12 ARQ/ARQ (susceptible) and nine ARR/ARR (resistant) scrapie-free Suffolk lambs were challenged subcutaneously with scrapie inoculum. Prefemoral lymphadenectomies were carried out at 14 and 180 days post-inoculation (p.i.) and serial bleeds were collected at monthly intervals for up to 1 year p.i. An indirect double-labelling procedure was carried out on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and lymph node cell preparations and analysed using flow cytometry. Prior to scrapie challenge, significantly more PrP+cells were detected in PBMCs from the susceptible sheep. Furthermore, following challenge, significantly more CD8+andγΔ+T cells were detected in the PBMCs of the resistant sheep. However, at both 14 and 180 days p.i, CD21+cell expression was significantly higher in the lymph node preparations of the susceptible sheep. In contrast, more CD4+cells were detected in the lymph nodes of the resistant sheep at both time points. It was concluded that significant differences in immune cell subsets and PrP expression occur between ARQ/ARQ and ARR/ARR Suffolk sheep in the preclinical phase of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Eaton
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - M Rocchi
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - L González
- Veterinary Laboratories Agency (VLA-Lasswade), Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - S Hamilton
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - J Finlayson
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - J Sales
- Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland, James Clerk Maxwell Building, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3JZ, UK
| | - M Jeffrey
- Veterinary Laboratories Agency (VLA-Lasswade), Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - P J Steele
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - M P Dagleish
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - S M Rodger
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - H W Reid
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - F Chianini
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
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Rocchi MS, Anderson MJ, Eaton SL, Hamilton S, Finlayson J, Steele P, Barclay GR, Chianini F. Three-colour flow cytometric detection of PrP in ovine leukocytes. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2007; 116:172-81. [PMID: 17320973 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2007.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2006] [Revised: 01/10/2007] [Accepted: 01/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
PrP(c) (cellular prion protein, CD230) expression by subpopulations of lymphoid cells has been widely investigated in a variety of species, possibly because of the possible link between transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) transmission and blood transfusion. However, the role of the immune cells in the transmission of the disease is still unclear. Here we describe the optimisation and standardisation of a three-colour staining procedure to detect PrP in association with phenotypic and activation markers in ovine immune cells. We demonstrate a reproducible, flexible and sensitive method and that the combination of isotype-specific antibodies and Fab fragments is feasible. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such labelling of ovine cells. Using this method, we were able to detect differences in levels of PrP expression between blood and lymph node cells of the same animal, and considerable variability between animals. Moreover, we were able to explore possible associations between PrP expression and cellular activation and to identify cell subsets with different labelling patterns. We are currently employing this approach to evaluate variations in immunological parameters during experimental infection in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara S Rocchi
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Scotland EH26 0PZ, UK
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Terra-Granado E, Berbert LR, de Meis J, Nomizo R, Martins VR, Savino W, Silva-Barbosa SD. Is there a role for cellular prion protein in intrathymic T cell differentiation and migration? Neuroimmunomodulation 2007; 14:213-9. [PMID: 18073517 DOI: 10.1159/000110649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) is expressed in the nervous and immune systems. Functionally, PrP(C) has been suggested to participate in neuron survival, neuritogenesis and T lymphocyte activation. Moreover, PrP(C) interaction with laminin influences neuronal adhesion and neurite extension. Nevertheless, so far the physiological role of PrP(C) has not been completely elucidated, particularly in the immune system. The aim of the study was to evaluate the possible participation of PrP(C) in intrathymic T cell development. We evaluated T cell differentiation markers in thymocytes and peripheral lymphocytes, as well as thymocyte death in PrP(C)-null or PrP(C)-overexpressing (Tga20) mice, compared to wild-type controls. In these same animals, we ascertained laminin-driven thymocyte migration. Compared to controls, only marginal differences were found in PrP(C)-null animals. However, Tga20 mice exhibited a severe thymic hypoplasia, with 10-20% lymphocytes compared to wild-type counterparts. In particular, the frequency of CD4+CD8+ cells was largely reduced, and this was accompanied by a dramatic increase in the frequency of CD4-CD8- thymocytes, which could be as high as 60-65% of the whole-cell suspensions. Moreover, Tga20 mice exhibited an increase in thymocyte death, comprising the CD4+CD8+, as well as CD4+ and CD8+ single-positive cells. Additionally, laminin-driven migration was largely impaired in Tga20 mice, in which we also found a significant decrease in total T lymphocytes in the spleen and lymph nodes. Our results show that PrP(C) overexpression alters intrathymic T cell development, a defect that likely has a negative impact in the formation of the T cell peripheral pool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugênia Terra-Granado
- Laboratory on Thymus Research, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Thumdee P, Ponsuksili S, Murani E, Nganvongpanit K, Gehrig B, Tesfaye D, Gilles M, Hoelker M, Jennen D, Griese J, Schellander K, Wimmers K. Expression of the prion protein gene (PRNP) and cellular prion protein (PrPc) in cattle and sheep fetuses and maternal tissues during pregnancy. Gene Expr 2007; 13:283-97. [PMID: 17605301 PMCID: PMC6032460 DOI: 10.3727/000000006780666984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the expression of prion protein gene both on mRNA and protein levels in bovine and ovine female reproductive organs during gestation and various tissues of their fetuses. The fetal tissues of both species included brain, cotyledon, heart, intestine, kidney, liver, lung, and muscle. In cattle, prion protein gene (PRNP) transcripts were detected by semiquantitative RT-PCR in reproductive tissues such as ovary, oviduct, endometrium, myometrium, follicles, and granulosa cells. In various tissues of 2-month-old fetuses, higher expression levels were found in brain and cotyledon compared to the other tissues. To detect the expression of the gene transcript in in vivo preimplantation embryos and 1-month-old fetuses, real-time PCR was performed showing that the level of gene expression in zygote stage was significantly higher (p < or = 0.05) than that of the other stages. Sheep were categorized as resistant (RI) or high susceptible (R5) to scrapie according to their PRNP genotype. In both genotype groups, the PRNP mRNA was detectable in all tissues studied including ovary, oviduct, endometrium, myometrium, and caruncle of ewes and all tissues of 2-month-old fetuses of both groups. Comparison between reproductive organs demonstrates the highest expression level in caruncle tissue of R1 ewes, whereas the level was high in brain and low in liver of both R1 and R5 fetuses. In addition, real-time RT-PCR was performed in immature oocytes, mature oocytes, in vivo embryos at morula stage, and 1-month-old fetuses. The results showed that the relative expression levels of the ovine PRNP mRNA in mature oocytes and morula stage embryos were significantly lower than those in immature oocytes and 1-month-old fetuses (p < or = 0.05). Western blot analyses revealed the immunoreactive bands corresponding to the cellular prion protein (PrPc) in all maternal and fetal tissues examined of both cattle and sheep. Moreover, immunohistochemical staining implicated localization of the PrPc in ovarian cortex and ovarian medulla of both species. However, PrPc was not detected in oocyte, granulosa cells, theca cells, and corpus luteum in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patama Thumdee
- *Institute of Animal Science, Animal Breeding and Husbandry Group, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Eduard Murani
- †Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Korakot Nganvongpanit
- *Institute of Animal Science, Animal Breeding and Husbandry Group, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bernhard Gehrig
- ‡Institute of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Hygiene, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dawit Tesfaye
- *Institute of Animal Science, Animal Breeding and Husbandry Group, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Markus Gilles
- *Institute of Animal Science, Animal Breeding and Husbandry Group, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Hoelker
- *Institute of Animal Science, Animal Breeding and Husbandry Group, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Danyel Jennen
- *Institute of Animal Science, Animal Breeding and Husbandry Group, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Josef Griese
- *Institute of Animal Science, Animal Breeding and Husbandry Group, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Karl Schellander
- *Institute of Animal Science, Animal Breeding and Husbandry Group, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Klaus Wimmers
- †Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals, Dummerstorf, Germany
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Richt JA, Kasinathan P, Hamir AN, Castilla J, Sathiyaseelan T, Vargas F, Sathiyaseelan J, Wu H, Matsushita H, Koster J, Kato S, Ishida I, Soto C, Robl JM, Kuroiwa Y. Production of cattle lacking prion protein. Nat Biotechnol 2006; 25:132-8. [PMID: 17195841 PMCID: PMC2813193 DOI: 10.1038/nbt1271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2006] [Accepted: 10/27/2006] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Prion diseases are caused by propagation of misfolded forms of the normal cellular prion protein PrP(C), such as PrP(BSE) in bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in cattle and PrP(CJD) in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in humans. Disruption of PrP(C) expression in mice, a species that does not naturally contract prion diseases, results in no apparent developmental abnormalities. However, the impact of ablating PrP(C) function in natural host species of prion diseases is unknown. Here we report the generation and characterization of PrP(C)-deficient cattle produced by a sequential gene-targeting system. At over 20 months of age, the cattle are clinically, physiologically, histopathologically, immunologically and reproductively normal. Brain tissue homogenates are resistant to prion propagation in vitro as assessed by protein misfolding cyclic amplification. PrP(C)-deficient cattle may be a useful model for prion research and could provide industrial bovine products free of prion proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen A Richt
- National Animal Disease Center, Agriculture Research Services, United States Department of Agriculture, 2300 Dayton Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010, USA.
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Pasquali P, Nonno R, Mandara MT, Di Bari MA, Ricci G, Petrucci P, Capuccini S, Cartoni C, Macrì A, Agrimi U. Intracerebral administration of interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IL-18 modifies the course of mouse scrapie. BMC Vet Res 2006; 2:37. [PMID: 17192191 PMCID: PMC1769363 DOI: 10.1186/1746-6148-2-37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2006] [Accepted: 12/27/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prion diseases are characterised by a neurodegenerative pattern in which the function of immune system remains still elusive. In the present study, we evaluate if an exogenous treatment with Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IL-18, able to activate microglia, is able to affect scrapie pathogenesis. Results Cytokines injected intracranially, induced a strong inflammatory response characterised by TNF-α production and microglia activation. Two groups of mice were injected intracerebrally with high dose of ME7 strain of scrapie containing IL-12 and IL-18 or sterile saline. Cytokines-treated mice showed a more pronounced accumulation of PrPSc in brain tissues at 90 days post-inoculation and a shorter mean survival times than untreated mice. Conclusion We can conclude that intracerebral administration of IL-12 and IL-18 can modulate scrapie pathogenesis possibly through a microglia-mediated pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pasquali
- Department of Food Safety and Animal Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Romolo Nonno
- Department of Food Safety and Animal Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Mandara
- Department of Biopathological Veterinary Science, Veterinary Medicine School, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Michele Angelo Di Bari
- Department of Food Safety and Animal Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ricci
- Department of Biopathological Veterinary Science, Veterinary Medicine School, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Petrucci
- Department of Food Safety and Animal Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Capuccini
- Department of Biopathological Veterinary Science, Veterinary Medicine School, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Claudia Cartoni
- Department of Food Safety and Animal Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Agostino Macrì
- Department of Food Safety and Animal Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Agrimi
- Department of Food Safety and Animal Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
Prion protein (PrP) plays a key role in the pathogenesis of prion diseases. However, the normal function of the protein remains unclear. The cellular isoform (PrP(C)) is expressed widely in the immune system, in haematopoietic stem cells and mature lymphoid and myeloid compartments in addition to cells of the central nervous system. It is up-regulated in T cell activation and may be expressed at higher levels by specialized classes of lymphocyte. Furthermore, antibody cross-linking of surface PrP modulates T cell activation and leads to rearrangements of lipid raft constituents and increased phosphorylation of signalling proteins. These findings appear to indicate an important but, as yet, ill-defined role in T cell function. Although PrP(-/-) mice have been reported to have only minor alterations in immune function, recent work has suggested that PrP is required for self-renewal of haematopoietic stem cells. Here, we consider the evidence for a distinctive role for PrP(C) in the immune system and what the effects of anti-prion therapeutics may be on immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Isaacs
- Human Disease Immunogenetics Group, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
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Boetel T, Bade S, Schmidt MA, Frey A. Prion protein 90-231 contains a streptavidin-binding motif. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2006; 349:296-302. [PMID: 16934221 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2006.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2006] [Accepted: 08/10/2006] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The biological function of prion protein (PrP) and the physiological relevance of its truncated subtypes and glycoforms is still enigmatic. In this paper, we adduce evidence that recombinant murine PrP fragment 90-231 (mPrP90-231) contains a biotin-mimicking sequence motif that causes binding of the bacterial protein streptavidin to mPrP90-231. As indicated by epitope mapping and proven by analysis of a deletion mutant (mPrP101-231), streptavidin binding is primarily mediated by the amino-terminus of mPrP90-231 with the core-binding sequence represented by residues 94-100. Competition with biotin significantly reduces the interaction pointing to an involvement of streptavidin's biotin-binding site (BBS). Since the BBS of streptavidin shares similarities with the active sites of proteins involved in biotin metabolism we speculate that biotin mimicry by truncated PrP-species may have an impact in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thurid Boetel
- Abteilung Klinische Medizin, Forschungszentrum Borstel, Parkallee 22, D-23845 Borstel, Germany
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Ballerini C, Gourdain P, Bachy V, Blanchard N, Levavasseur E, Grégoire S, Fontes P, Aucouturier P, Hivroz C, Carnaud C. Functional Implication of Cellular Prion Protein in Antigen-Driven Interactions between T Cells and Dendritic Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2006; 176:7254-62. [PMID: 16751368 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.176.12.7254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a host-encoded, GPI-anchored cell surface protein, expressed on a wide range of tissues including neuronal and lymphoreticular cells. PrPC may undergo posttranslational conversion, giving rise to scrapie PrP, the pathogenic conformer considered as responsible for prion diseases. Despite intensive studies, the normal function of PrPC is still enigmatic. Starting from microscope observations showing an accumulation of PrPC at the sites of contact between T cells and Ag-loaded dendritic cells (DC), we have studied the contribution of PrPC in alloantigen and peptide-MHC-driven T/DC interactions. Whereas the absence of PrPC on the DC results in a reduced allogeneic T cell response, its absence on the T cell partner has no apparent effect upon this response. Therefore, PrPC seems to fulfill different functions on the two cell partners forming the synapse. In contrast, PrPC mobilization by Ab reduces the stimulatory properties of DC and the proliferative potential of responding T cells. The contrasted consequences, regarding T cell function, between PrPC deletion and PrPC coating by Abs, suggests that the prion protein acts as a signaling molecule on T cells. Furthermore, our results show that the absence of PrPC has consequences in vivo also, upon the ability of APCs to stimulate proliferative T cell responses. Thus, independent of neurological considerations, some of the evolutionary constraints that may have contributed to the conservation of the Prnp gene in mammalians, could be of immunological origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Ballerini
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris6 and Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité (U)-712, Paris, France
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43
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Mazzoni IE, Ledebur HC, Paramithiotis E, Cashman N. Lymphoid signal transduction mechanisms linked to cellular prion protein. Biochem Cell Biol 2006; 83:644-53. [PMID: 16234853 DOI: 10.1139/o05-058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The normal cellular isoform of the prion protein (PrPC) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored cell surface protein that is expressed widely, including in lymphoid cells. We compared lectin-induced mitogenesis and selected cell signaling pathways in splenocytes from wild-type BALB/c mice and Zrch Prnp0/0 (PrP0/0) mice bred on a BALB/c background for more than 10 generations. 3H-thymidine incorporation induced by concanavalin A (Con A) or phytohemagglutinin (PHA) was significantly reduced in PrP0/0 splenocytes, most prominently early in activation (24 and 48 h). Con A activation in PrP0/0 splenocytes was associated with differences in the phosphorylation (P) patterns of protein kinase C (PKC alpha/beta, but not delta) and the PKC downstream effectors p44/42MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase). P-PKC and P-MAPK profiles were similar in wild-type and PrP0/0 splenocytes following PMA treatment, indicating that the ability of these 2 enzymes to be phosphorylated is not impaired in the absence of PrPC. Con A-induced calcium fluxes, monitored by indo-1 fluorescence, were equivalent in PrP0/0 and PrP+/+ splenocytes, suggesting that calcium-dependent mechanisms are not directly implicated in the differential phosphorylation patterns or mitotic responses. Our data indicate that PrP0/0 splenocytes display defects in upstream or downstream mechanism(s) that modulate PKCalpha/beta phosphorylation, which in turn affects its capacity to regulate splenocyte mitosis, consistent with a role for PrPC in immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- I E Mazzoni
- Caprion Pharmaceuticals, Montreal, QC H4S 2C8, Canada
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Amselgruber WM, Steffl M, Didier A, Märtlbauer E, Pfaff E, Büttner M. Prion protein expression in bovine podocytes and extraglomerular mesangial cells. Cell Tissue Res 2006; 324:497-505. [PMID: 16485135 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-005-0128-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2005] [Accepted: 10/15/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The cellular form of the prion protein (PrP(c)) is thought to be a substrate for an abnormal isoform of the prion protein (PrP(sc)). One emerging hypothesis is that the proposed conversion phenomenon takes place at the site at which the infectious agent meets PrP(c). PrP(c) is abundant in the central nervous system, but little is known about the cell-type-specific distribution of PrP(c) in non-neuronal tissues of cattle. We have studied whether PrP(c), a protein found predominantly in neurons, also exists in bovine podocytes, since neurons and podocytes share a large number of similarities. We have therefore examined the expression of PrP(c) by immunohistochemistry, reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent analysis. Immunostained serial sections and specific antibodies against PrP(c) have revealed that PrP(c) is selectively localized in podocytes and is particularly strongly expressed in extraglomerular mesangial cells but not in endothelial or intraglomerular mesangial cells. The selective expression of PrP(c) in podocytes is of special importance, as it suggests that these cells represent possible targets for peripheral infection with prions and demonstrates that PrP(c) can be added to the list of neuronal factors expressed in mammalian podocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- W M Amselgruber
- Institute of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Hohenheim, Fruhwirthstrasse 35, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany.
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Amselgruber WM, Büttner M, Schlegel T, Schweiger M, Pfaff E. The normal cellular prion protein (PrPc) is strongly expressed in bovine endocrine pancreas. Histochem Cell Biol 2005; 125:441-8. [PMID: 16208484 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-005-0089-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Expression of the cellular prion protein (PrP(c)) has been shown to be crucial for the development of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies and for the accumulation of the disease-associated conformer (PrP(sc)) in the brain and other tissues. One of the emerging hypotheses is that the conversion phenomenon could take place at the site where the infectious agent meets PrP(c). In this work we have studied whether PrP(c), a protein found predominantly in neurons, could also exist in pancreatic endocrine cells since neuroectoderm-derived cells and pancreatic islet cells share a large number of similarities. For this purpose we have examined the expression of PrP(c) in a series of fetal and postnatal bovine pancreatic tissue by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. Using immunostained serial sections and specific antibodies against bovine PrP(c), insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, chromogranin A and chromogranin B we found that PrP(c) is highly expressed in all endocrine cells of fetal and adult pancreatic islets with a particular strong expression in A-cells. Moreover it became evident that the PrP(c) gene-neighbour chromogranin B as well as chromogranin A are coexpressed together with PrP(c). The selective expression of PrP(c) in the bovine endocrine pancreas is of particular importance regarding possible iatrogenic transmission routes and demonstrates also that bovine pancreatic islet cells could represent an interesting model to study the control of PrP-gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- W M Amselgruber
- Institute of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Hohenheim, Fruhwirthstr. 35, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany.
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Bainbridge J, Walker KB. The normal cellular form of prion protein modulates T cell responses. Immunol Lett 2005; 96:147-50. [PMID: 15585317 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2004.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2004] [Revised: 08/17/2004] [Accepted: 08/17/2004] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Expression of the normal form of prion protein (PrP(C)) has been reported on a wide range cells including lymphocytes and antigen presenting cells, however the functional role of PrP(C) remains to be fully elucidated. Here we report the effect of reintroducing the PrP gene into splenocytes derived from prion knockout (PrP 0/0) mice and comparing their responses with splenocytes lacking a functional PrP gene. Reintroduction of the PrP gene was carried out by transfecting cells with pC1PrPEH, a plasmid expressing mouse PrP. Following transfection, T cells demonstrated an increased capacity to proliferate in response to ConA and PMA/ionomycin compared to T cells lacking the functional PrP gene. A bioassay used to determine IL-2 levels indicated that the reintroduction of the PrP gene might enhance IL-2 expression in response to ConA. Levels of IFN-gamma produced also showed an increase following transfection with PrP expressing plasmid. A comparison between splenocytes derived from PrP 0/0 and PrP +/+ also demonstrated some differences in cytokine production and proliferation. Together these results show PrP(C) has an impact on the normal T cell activation and proliferation in response to mitogens and also potentially antigen responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Bainbridge
- NIBSC, Division of Immunobiology, Blanche Lane, South Mimms, Potters Bar, England EN6 3QG, UK
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Halliday S, Houston F, Hunter N. Expression of PrPC on cellular components of sheep blood. J Gen Virol 2005; 86:1571-1579. [PMID: 15831971 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.80561-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PrPC, a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-linked glycoprotein, plays a central role in the pathogenesis of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), undergoing a conformational alteration to the disease-associated isoform, commonly designated PrPSc. PrPC is expressed in many tissues other than the nervous system, although its precise function(s) remains unclear. It has previously been demonstrated that TSEs can be transmitted by blood transfusion in sheep. The aim of this work was to identify which components of blood carried the infection. As an initial step, the distribution of PrPC on cellular components of sheep blood was examined to identify potential targets for infection. Cell-surface expression of PrPC was found only on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs); however, platelets also contained significant amounts of intracellular PrPC. The level of PrPC expressed on the cell surface of PBMCs was influenced by PrP genotype, with the highest levels found in scrapie-susceptible VRQ/VRQ sheep and the lowest levels in scrapie-resistant ARR/ARR sheep. In susceptible sheep, PrPC was expressed at varying levels on all major subsets of PBMCs, with the highest levels on the CD21+ subset of B cells, and PrP expression was upregulated dramatically on CD21+ B cells in some scrapie-infected sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Halliday
- Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Newbury, Berkshire RG20 7NN, UK
| | - F Houston
- Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Newbury, Berkshire RG20 7NN, UK
| | - N Hunter
- Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Newbury, Berkshire RG20 7NN, UK
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Abstract
Memory T cells exhibit low activation thresholds and mediate rapid effector responses when recalled by antigen; contrasting the higher activation threshold, slower responses and predominant IL-2 production by naive T cells. While the sequence of intracellular events coupling the T cell-receptor (TCR) to naive T cell activation is well characterized, biochemical control of memory T cell differentiation and function remains undefined. In this review, we will discuss recent developments in T cell-receptor signal transduction as they pertain to memory T cells, and will discuss how signal dampening may drive memory generation, and more efficient spatial organization of signaling molecules may promote rapid recall responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meena R Chandok
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MSTF Building, Room 400, 685 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Khalili-Shirazi A, Quaratino S, Londei M, Summers L, Tayebi M, Clarke AR, Hawke SH, Jackson GS, Collinge J. Protein conformation significantly influences immune responses to prion protein. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2005; 174:3256-63. [PMID: 15749856 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.174.6.3256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In prion diseases, such as variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease normal cellular prion protein (PrPC), a largely alpha-helical structure is converted to an abnormal conformational isoform (PrPSc) that shows an increase in beta-sheet content. Similarly, the recombinant form of PrPC (ralpha-PrP) can be converted to a conformation dominated by beta-sheet (rbeta-PrP) by reduction and mild acidification in vitro, a process that may mimic in vivo conversion following PrPC internalization during recycling. Despite PrPSc accumulation and prion propagation in the lymphoreticular system before detectable neuroinvasion, no Ab response to PrP has been detected, probably due to immune tolerance. To investigate how the immune system may respond to alpha- and beta-PrP, we immunized Prnp(0/0) mice that are not tolerant of PrP with ralpha-PrP and rbeta-PrP. In this study, we show that although T cells stimulated by these differently folded conformers PrP recognize similar immunodominant epitopes (residues 111-130 and 191-210) the cytokine profile in response to ralpha- and rbeta-PrP was different. Challenge with ralpha-PrP elicited a strong response of IL-5 and IL-10, whereas rbeta-PrP led to an early increased production of IFN-gamma. In addition, immunization with ralpha-PrP led to production of predominantly IgG1 isotype Ab in the sera, whereas after immunization with rbeta-PrP, IgG2b was significantly produced. Thus, both humoral and cellular responses to these differently folded isoforms of the same protein are different, indicating a possible involvement of Th1 and Th2 pathway activation. These differences may be exploitable diagnostically and therapeutically for prion diseases, such as variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Khalili-Shirazi
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Du J, Pan Y, Shi Y, Guo C, Jin X, Sun L, Liu N, Qiao T, Fan D. Overexpression and significance of prion protein in gastric cancer and multidrug-resistant gastric carcinoma cell line SGC7901/ADR. Int J Cancer 2005; 113:213-20. [PMID: 15386405 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.20570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In our previous work, cellular prion protein (PrPc) was identified as an upregulated gene in adriamycin-resistant gastric carcinoma cell line SGC7901/ADR compared to its parental cell line SGC7901. Here we investigate the expression of PrPc in gastric cancer and whether it was involved in multidrug resistance (MDR) of gastric cancer. We demonstrated that PrPc was ubiquitously expressed in gastric cancer cell lines and tissues. PrPc conferred resistance of both P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-related and P-gp-nonrelated drugs on SGC7901, which was accompanied by decreased accumulation and increased releasing amount of adriamycin in PrPc-overexpressing cell line. Inhibition of PrPc expression by antisense or RNAi technology could partially reverse multidrug-resistant phenotype of SGC7901/ADR. PrPc significantly upregulated the expression of the classical MDR-related molecule P-gp but not multidrug resistance associated protein and glutathione S-transferase pi. The PrPc-induced MDR could be partially reversed by P-gp inhibitor verapamil. PrPc could also suppress adriamycin-induced apoptosis and alter the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax, which might be another pathway contributing to PrPc-related MDR. The further study of the biological functions of PrPc may be helpful for understanding the mechanisms of occurrence and development of clinical gastric carcinoma and PrPc-related MDR and developing possible strategies to treat gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingping Du
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
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