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Zanrè V, Bellinato F, Cardile A, Passarini C, Monticelli J, Di Bella S, Menegazzi M. Lamivudine, Doravirine, and Cabotegravir Downregulate the Expression of Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs), Inhibit Cell Growth, and Reduce Invasive Capability in Melanoma Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1615. [PMID: 38338893 PMCID: PMC10855363 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This study explores the impact of antiretroviral administration on the expression of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), cell growth, and invasive capability of human melanoma cell lines in culture. We investigated three antiretrovirals-lamivudine, doravirine, and cabotegravir-in A375, FO-1, and SK-Mel-28, BRAF-mutated, and in MeWo, P53-mutated, melanoma cell lines. The findings indicate a general capability of these drugs to downregulate the expression of HERV-K Pol and Env genes and hinder cell viability, mobility, and colony formation capacity of melanoma cells. The antiretroviral drugs also demonstrate selectivity against malignant cells, sparing normal human epithelial melanocytes. The study reveals that the integrase inhibitor cabotegravir is particularly effective in inhibiting cell growth and invasion across different cell lines in comparison with lamivudine and doravirine, which are inhibitors of the viral reverse transcriptase enzyme. The investigation further delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed effects, highlighting the potential induction of ferroptosis, apoptosis, and alterations in cell cycle regulatory proteins. Our findings showed cytostatic effects principally revealed in A375, and SK-Mel-28 cell lines through a downregulation of retinoblastoma protein phosphorylation and/or cyclin D1 expression. Signs of ferroptosis were detected in both A375 cells and FO-1 cells by a decrease in glutathione peroxidase 4 and ferritin expression, as well as by an increase in transferrin protein levels. Apoptosis was also detected in FO-1 and SK-Mel-28, but only with cabotegravir treatment. Moreover, we explored the expression and activity of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) protein and its correlation with programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression. Both the STING activity and PD-L1 expression were decreased, suggesting that the antiretroviral treatments may counteract the detrimental effects of PD-L1 expression activation through the STING/interferon pathway triggered by HERV-K. Finally, this study underscores the potential therapeutic significance of cabotegravir in melanoma treatment. The findings also raise the prospect of using antiretroviral drugs to downregulate PD-L1 expression, potentially enhancing the therapeutic responses of immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Zanrè
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (V.Z.); (A.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Francesco Bellinato
- Section of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Stefani 1, 37126 Verona, Italy;
| | - Alessia Cardile
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (V.Z.); (A.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Carlotta Passarini
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (V.Z.); (A.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Jacopo Monticelli
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Trieste University Hospital (ASUGI), Piazza dell’Ospitale 1, 34129 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Stefano Di Bella
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Piazzale Europa 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Marta Menegazzi
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (V.Z.); (A.C.); (C.P.)
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Krishnan VS, Kõks S. Transcriptional Landscape of Repetitive Elements in Psoriatic Skin from Large Cohort Studies: Relevance to Psoriasis Pathophysiology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16725. [PMID: 38069048 PMCID: PMC10706217 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
While studies demonstrating the expression of repetitive elements (REs) in psoriatic skin using RNA-seq have been published before, not many studies have focused on the genome-wide expression patterns using larger cohorts. This study investigated the transcriptional landscape of differentially expressed REs in lesional and non-lesional skin from two previously published large datasets. We observed significant differential expression of REs in lesional psoriatic skin as well as the skin of healthy controls. Significant downregulation of several ERVs, HERVs (including HERV-K) and LINEs was observed in lesional psoriatic skin from both datasets. The upregulation of a small subset of HERV-Ks and Alus in lesional psoriatic skin was also reported. An interesting finding from this expression data was the significant upregulation and overlapping of tRNA repetitive elements in lesional and non-lesional psoriatic skin. The data from this study indicate the potential role of REs in the immunopathogenesis of psoriasis. The expression data from the two independent large study cohorts are powerful enough to confidently verify the differential expression of REs in relation to psoriatic skin pathology. Further studies are warranted to understand the functional impact of these repetitive elements in psoriasis pathogenesis, thereby expanding their significance as a potential targeting pathway for the disease treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya S. Krishnan
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Discovery Way, Murdoch, WA 1650, Australia;
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, 8 Verdun St., Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Sulev Kõks
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Discovery Way, Murdoch, WA 1650, Australia;
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, 8 Verdun St., Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
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Touma F, Lambert M, Martínez Villarreal A, Gantchev J, Ramchatesingh B, Litvinov IV. The Ultraviolet Irradiation of Keratinocytes Induces Ectopic Expression of LINE-1 Retrotransposon Machinery and Leads to Cellular Senescence. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3017. [PMID: 38002016 PMCID: PMC10669206 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11113017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Retrotransposons have played an important role in evolution through their transposable activity. The largest and the only currently active human group of mobile DNAs are the LINE-1 retrotransposons. The ectopic expression of LINE-1 has been correlated with genomic instability. Narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) and broad-band ultraviolet B (BB-UVB) phototherapy is commonly used for the treatment of dermatological diseases. UVB exposure is carcinogenic and can lead, in keratinocytes, to genomic instability. We hypothesize that LINE-1 reactivation occurs at a high rate in response to UVB exposure on the skin, which significantly contributes to genomic instability and DNA damage leading to cellular senescence and photoaging. Immortalized N/TERT1 and HaCaT human keratinocyte cell lines were irradiated in vitro with either NB-UVB or BB-UVB. Using immunofluorescence and Western blotting, we confirmed UVB-induced protein expression of LINE-1. Using RT-qPCR, we measured the mRNA expression of LINE-1 and senescence markers that were upregulated after several NB-UVB exposures. Selected miRNAs that are known to bind LINE-1 mRNA were measured using RT-qPCR, and the expression of miR-16 was downregulated with UVB exposure. Our findings demonstrate that UVB irradiation induces LINE-1 reactivation and DNA damage in normal keratinocytes along with the associated upregulation of cellular senescence markers and change in miR-16 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi Touma
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (F.T.); (B.R.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Marine Lambert
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (F.T.); (B.R.)
| | - Amelia Martínez Villarreal
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (F.T.); (B.R.)
| | - Jennifer Gantchev
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (F.T.); (B.R.)
| | - Brandon Ramchatesingh
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (F.T.); (B.R.)
| | - Ivan V. Litvinov
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada; (F.T.); (B.R.)
- Department of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
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Wang D, Gomes MT, Mo Y, Prohaska CC, Zhang L, Chelvanambi S, Clauss MA, Zhang D, Machado RF, Gao M, Bai Y. Human Endogenous Retrovirus, SARS-CoV-2, and HIV Promote PAH via Inflammation and Growth Stimulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7472. [PMID: 37108634 PMCID: PMC10138839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a pulmonary vascular disease characterized by the progressive elevation of pulmonary arterial pressures. It is becoming increasingly apparent that inflammation contributes to the pathogenesis and progression of PAH. Several viruses are known to cause PAH, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), human endogenous retrovirus K(HERV-K), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), in part due to acute and chronic inflammation. In this review, we discuss the connections between HERV-K, HIV, SARS-CoV-2, and PAH, to stimulate research regarding new therapeutic options and provide new targets for the treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desheng Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Marta T. Gomes
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep, and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yanfei Mo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Clare C. Prohaska
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep, and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Sarvesh Chelvanambi
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep, and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Matthias A. Clauss
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep, and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Dongfang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Roberto F. Machado
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep, and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Mingqi Gao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Yang Bai
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep, and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Stricker E, Peckham-Gregory EC, Scheurer ME. HERVs and Cancer-A Comprehensive Review of the Relationship of Human Endogenous Retroviruses and Human Cancers. Biomedicines 2023; 11:936. [PMID: 36979914 PMCID: PMC10046157 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic instability and genetic mutations can lead to exhibition of several cancer hallmarks in affected cells such as sustained proliferative signaling, evasion of growth suppression, activated invasion, deregulation of cellular energetics, and avoidance of immune destruction. Similar biological changes have been observed to be a result of pathogenic viruses and, in some cases, have been linked to virus-induced cancers. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), once external pathogens, now occupy more than 8% of the human genome, representing the merge of genomic and external factors. In this review, we outline all reported effects of HERVs on cancer development and discuss the HERV targets most suitable for cancer treatments as well as ongoing clinical trials for HERV-targeting drugs. We reviewed all currently available reports of the effects of HERVs on human cancers including solid tumors, lymphomas, and leukemias. Our review highlights the central roles of HERV genes, such as gag, env, pol, np9, and rec in immune regulation, checkpoint blockade, cell differentiation, cell fusion, proliferation, metastasis, and cell transformation. In addition, we summarize the involvement of HERV long terminal repeat (LTR) regions in transcriptional regulation, creation of fusion proteins, expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and promotion of genome instability through recombination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Stricker
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77047, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77047, USA
| | | | - Michael E. Scheurer
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77047, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77047, USA
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Min X, Zheng M, Yu Y, Wu J, Kuang Q, Hu Z, Ouyang L, Lu S, Zhao M. Ultraviolet light induces HERV expression to activate RIG-I signalling pathway in keratinocytes. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:1165-1176. [PMID: 35332586 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Skin inflammation and photosensitivity are common in lupus erythematosus (LE) patients, and ultraviolet (UV) light is a known trigger of skin and possibly systemic inflammation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) patients. Type I interferons (IFN) are upregulated in LE skin after UV exposure; however, the mechanisms to explain UVB-induced inflammation remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that UVB irradiation-induced activation of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) plays a major role in the immune response. UVB-induced HERV-associated dsRNA transcription and subsequent activation of the innate antiviral RIG-I/MDA5/IRF7 pathway led to downstream transcription of interferon-stimulated genes, which promotes UVB-induced apoptosis and proliferation inhibition in keratinocytes through RIG-I and MDA5 pathways. Our findings indicate that UVB irradiation induces HERV-dsRNA overexpression, and the dsRNA-sensing innate immunity pathway promotes type I IFN production, which may be a potential mechanism of skin inflammatory response and skin lesion of SLE/DLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Min
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Meiling Zheng
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Yaqin Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Jiali Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Qiqi Kuang
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Zhi Hu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Lianlian Ouyang
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Shuang Lu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
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Durnaoglu S, Lee SK, Ahnn J. Human Endogenous Retroviruses as Gene Expression Regulators: Insights from Animal Models into Human Diseases. Mol Cells 2021; 44:861-878. [PMID: 34963103 PMCID: PMC8718366 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2021.5016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The human genome contains many retroviral elements called human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), resulting from the integration of retroviruses throughout evolution. HERVs once were considered inactive junk because they are not replication-competent, primarily localized in the heterochromatin, and silenced by methylation. But HERVs are now clearly shown to actively regulate gene expression in various physiological and pathological conditions such as developmental processes, immune regulation, cancers, autoimmune diseases, and neurological disorders. Recent studies report that HERVs are activated in patients suffering from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the current pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infection. In this review, we describe internal and external factors that influence HERV activities. We also present evidence showing the gene regulatory activity of HERV LTRs (long terminal repeats) in model organisms such as mice, rats, zebrafish, and invertebrate models of worms and flies. Finally, we discuss several molecular and cellular pathways involving various transcription factors and receptors, through which HERVs affect downstream cellular and physiological events such as epigenetic modifications, calcium influx, protein phosphorylation, and cytokine release. Understanding how HERVs participate in various physiological and pathological processes will help develop a strategy to generate effective therapeutic approaches targeting HERVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serpen Durnaoglu
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Research Institute for Natural Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Sun-Kyung Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Research Institute for Natural Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Joohong Ahnn
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Research Institute for Natural Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
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Padmanabhan Nair V, Liu H, Ciceri G, Jungverdorben J, Frishman G, Tchieu J, Cederquist GY, Rothenaigner I, Schorpp K, Klepper L, Walsh RM, Kim TW, Cornacchia D, Ruepp A, Mayer J, Hadian K, Frishman D, Studer L, Vincendeau M. Activation of HERV-K(HML-2) disrupts cortical patterning and neuronal differentiation by increasing NTRK3. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:1566-1581.e8. [PMID: 33951478 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The biological function and disease association of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are largely elusive. HERV-K(HML-2) has been associated with neurotoxicity, but there is no clear understanding of its role or mechanistic basis. We addressed the physiological functions of HERV-K(HML-2) in neuronal differentiation using CRISPR engineering to activate or repress its expression levels in a human-pluripotent-stem-cell-based system. We found that elevated HERV-K(HML-2) transcription is detrimental for the development and function of cortical neurons. These effects are cell-type-specific, as dopaminergic neurons are unaffected. Moreover, high HERV-K(HML-2) transcription alters cortical layer formation in forebrain organoids. HERV-K(HML-2) transcriptional activation leads to hyperactivation of NTRK3 expression and other neurodegeneration-related genes. Direct activation of NTRK3 phenotypically resembles HERV-K(HML-2) induction, and reducing NTRK3 levels in context of HERV-K(HML-2) induction restores cortical neuron differentiation. Hence, these findings unravel a cell-type-specific role for HERV-K(HML-2) in cortical neuron development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hengyuan Liu
- Department of Genome-Oriented Bioinformatics, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gabriele Ciceri
- Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Johannes Jungverdorben
- Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Goar Frishman
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jason Tchieu
- Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gustav Y Cederquist
- Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ina Rothenaigner
- Assay Development and Screening Platform, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Kenji Schorpp
- Assay Development and Screening Platform, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Lena Klepper
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Ryan M Walsh
- Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tae Wan Kim
- Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniela Cornacchia
- Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andreas Ruepp
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jens Mayer
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Kamyar Hadian
- Assay Development and Screening Platform, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Dmitrij Frishman
- Department of Genome-Oriented Bioinformatics, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Lorenz Studer
- Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michelle Vincendeau
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany; Developmental Biology and Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Talotta R, Atzeni F, Laska MJ. Retroviruses in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus: Are they potential therapeutic targets? Autoimmunity 2020; 53:177-191. [PMID: 32321325 DOI: 10.1080/08916934.2020.1755962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterised by the hyper-activation of immunologic pathways related to the antiviral response. Exogenous and endogenous retroviruses, by integrating their DNA templates in the host cell genome, may epigenetically control the transcription of genes involved in the immune response. Furthermore, their nucleic acids or neo-synthesized proteins could stimulate the sensor molecules placed upstream the inflammatory cascade. Exogenous retroviruses, like human immunodeficiency virus, have been associated to SLE-like manifestations or to a fair SLE diagnosis. In addition, there is some evidence confirming a pathogenic role of human endogenous retroviruses in SLE. In line with these data, the use of antiretroviral agents could represent an attractive opportunity in the future therapeutic algorithms of this disease, but studies are still missing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Talotta
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital "Gaetano Martino", Messina, Italy
| | - Fabiola Atzeni
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital "Gaetano Martino", Messina, Italy
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Grandi N, Tramontano E. Type W Human Endogenous Retrovirus (HERV-W) Integrations and Their Mobilization by L1 Machinery: Contribution to the Human Transcriptome and Impact on the Host Physiopathology. Viruses 2017; 9:v9070162. [PMID: 28653997 PMCID: PMC5537654 DOI: 10.3390/v9070162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs) are ancient infection relics constituting ~8% of our DNA. While HERVs’ genomic characterization is still ongoing, impressive amounts of data have been obtained regarding their general expression across tissues. Among HERVs, one of the most studied is the W group, which is the sole HERV group specifically mobilized by the long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1) machinery, providing a source of novel insertions by retrotransposition of HERV-W processed pseudogenes, and comprising a member encoding a functional envelope protein coopted for human placentation. The HERV-W group has been intensively investigated for its putative role in several diseases, such as cancer, inflammation, and autoimmunity. Despite major interest in the link between HERV-W expression and human pathogenesis, no conclusive correlation has been demonstrated so far. In general, (i) the absence of a proper identification of the specific HERV-W sequences expressed in a given condition; and (ii) the lack of studies attempting to connect the various observations in the same experimental conditions are the major problems preventing the definitive assessment of the HERV-W impact on human physiopathology. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the HERV-W group presence within the human genome and its expression in physiological tissues as well as in the main pathological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Grandi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato SS554, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato SS554, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
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Kowalczyk MJ, Teresiak-Mikołajczak E, Dańczak-Pazdrowska A, Żaba R, Adamski Z, Osmola-Mańkowska A. Effects of UVA1 Phototherapy on Expression of Human Endogenous Retroviral Sequence (HERV)-K10 gag in Morphea: A Preliminary Study. Med Sci Monit 2017; 23:505-512. [PMID: 28130554 PMCID: PMC5292988 DOI: 10.12659/msm.897985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by skin fibrosis. UVA1 phototherapy is an important asset in the reduction of clinical manifestations in morphea. There are studies claiming that UV light modulates the expression of some human endogenous retroviral sequences. The aim of this study was to determine if the expression of HERV-K10 gag element is lowered by UVA1 phototherapy in morphea, a disease in which such irradiation has a soothing effect. Material/Methods The expression levels of the HERV-K10 gag were assessed by real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and skin-punch biopsies of healthy volunteers and 9 morphea patients before and after phototherapy. Additionally, correlations between the HERV-K10 gag expression and age, disease duration, the Localized Scleroderma Skin Severity Index (LoSSI), and antinuclear antibody (ANA) titers were assessed. Results In PBMC, HERV-K10 gag mRNA was significantly elevated after UVA1 phototherapy compared to healthy controls. Most of the patients responded with an increased expression level of this sequence. However, we found no statistical evidence at this point that phototherapy indeed has an effect on the HERV-K10 gag expression (there were no statistical differences in PBMC of morphea patients before and after phototherapy). Similarly, there was no statistically relevant effect of the UVA1 on the expression of HERV-K10 gag in skin. Conclusions At this point, the effect of UVA1 phototherapy on the expression of HERV-K10 gag cannot be statistically confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Jacek Kowalczyk
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Psoriasis and Novel Therapies in Dermatology Unit, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | | | | | - Ryszard Żaba
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Psoriasis and Novel Therapies in Dermatology Unit, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Zygmunt Adamski
- Department of Dermatology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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12
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Davis J, Eyre H, Jacka FN, Dodd S, Dean O, McEwen S, Debnath M, McGrath J, Maes M, Amminger P, McGorry PD, Pantelis C, Berk M. A review of vulnerability and risks for schizophrenia: Beyond the two hit hypothesis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 65:185-94. [PMID: 27073049 PMCID: PMC4876729 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Revised: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia risk has often been conceptualized using a model which requires two hits in order to generate the clinical phenotype-the first as an early priming in a genetically predisposed individual and the second a likely environmental insult. The aim of this paper was to review the literature and reformulate this binary risk-vulnerability model. We sourced the data for this narrative review from the electronic database PUBMED. Our search terms were not limited by language or date of publication. The development of schizophrenia may be driven by genetic vulnerability interacting with multiple vulnerability factors including lowered prenatal vitamin D exposure, viral infections, smoking intelligence quotient, social cognition cannabis use, social defeat, nutrition and childhood trauma. It is likely that these genetic risks, environmental risks and vulnerability factors are cumulative and interactive with each other and with critical periods of neurodevelopmental vulnerability. The development of schizophrenia is likely to be more complex and nuanced than the binary two hit model originally proposed nearly thirty years ago. Risk appears influenced by a more complex process involving genetic risk interfacing with multiple potentially interacting hits and vulnerability factors occurring at key periods of neurodevelopmental activity, which culminate in the expression of disease state. These risks are common across a number of neuropsychiatric and medical disorders, which might inform common preventive and intervention strategies across non-communicable disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Davis
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia.
| | - Harris Eyre
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia
| | - Felice N Jacka
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia; University of Melbourne, Department of Psychiatry, Level 1 North, Main Block, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
| | - Seetal Dodd
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia; University of Melbourne, Department of Psychiatry, Level 1 North, Main Block, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, 3052, Australia
| | - Olivia Dean
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia; University of Melbourne, Department of Psychiatry, Level 1 North, Main Block, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, 3052, Australia
| | - Sarah McEwen
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA, United States
| | - Monojit Debnath
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - John McGrath
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Queensland, Australia; Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland 4076, Australia
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia
| | - Paul Amminger
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Queensland, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health and Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, 35 Poplar Rd., Parkville, 3052, Australia
| | - Patrick D McGorry
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health and Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, 35 Poplar Rd., Parkville, 3052, Australia; Centre of Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 35 Poplar Rd., Parkville, 3052, Australia
| | - Christos Pantelis
- University of Melbourne, Department of Psychiatry, Level 1 North, Main Block, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India; Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, The University of Melbourne & Melbourne Health, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Kenneth Myer Building, 30 Royal Parade, 3052, Parkville, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia; University of Melbourne, Department of Psychiatry, Level 1 North, Main Block, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland 4076, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health and Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, 35 Poplar Rd., Parkville, 3052, Australia; Centre of Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 35 Poplar Rd., Parkville, 3052, Australia; Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Kenneth Myer Building, 30 Royal Parade, 3052, Parkville, Australia
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13
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Krishnamurthy J, Rabinovich BA, Mi T, Switzer KC, Olivares S, Maiti SN, Plummer JB, Singh H, Kumaresan PR, Huls HM, Wang-Johanning F, Cooper LJN. Genetic Engineering of T Cells to Target HERV-K, an Ancient Retrovirus on Melanoma. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:3241-51. [PMID: 25829402 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-3197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The human endogenous retrovirus (HERV-K) envelope (env) protein is a tumor-associated antigen (TAA) expressed on melanoma but not normal cells. This study was designed to engineer a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) on T-cell surface, such that they target tumors in advanced stages of melanoma. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Expression of HERV-K protein was analyzed in 220 melanoma samples (with various stages of disease) and 139 normal organ donor tissues using immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis. HERV-K env-specific CAR derived from mouse monoclonal antibody was introduced into T cells using the transposon-based Sleeping Beauty (SB) system. HERV-K env-specific CAR(+) T cells were expanded ex vivo on activating and propagating cells (AaPC) and characterized for CAR expression and specificity. This includes evaluating the HERV-K-specific CAR(+) T cells for their ability to kill A375-SM metastasized tumors in a mouse xenograft model. RESULTS We detected HERV-K env protein on melanoma but not in normal tissues. After electroporation of T cells and selection on HERV-K(+) AaPC, more than 95% of genetically modified T cells expressed the CAR with an effector memory phenotype and lysed HERV-K env(+) tumor targets in an antigen-specific manner. Even though there is apparent shedding of this TAA from tumor cells that can be recognized by HERV-K env-specific CAR(+) T cells, we observed a significant antitumor effect. CONCLUSIONS Adoptive cellular immunotherapy with HERV-K env-specific CAR(+) T cells represents a clinically appealing treatment strategy for advanced-stage melanoma and provides an approach for targeting this TAA on other solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janani Krishnamurthy
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas. University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Brian A Rabinovich
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Tiejuan Mi
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Kirsten C Switzer
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Simon Olivares
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Sourindra N Maiti
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Joshua B Plummer
- Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, Texas
| | - Harjeet Singh
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Helen M Huls
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Feng Wang-Johanning
- Viral Oncology, Biosciences Division, Center for Cancer and Metabolism, SRI International, Menlo Park, California
| | - Laurence J N Cooper
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas. University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, Houston, Texas.
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Vincendeau M, Göttesdorfer I, Schreml JMH, Wetie AGN, Mayer J, Greenwood AD, Helfer M, Kramer S, Seifarth W, Hadian K, Brack-Werner R, Leib-Mösch C. Modulation of human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) transcription during persistent and de novo HIV-1 infection. Retrovirology 2015; 12:27. [PMID: 25886562 PMCID: PMC4375885 DOI: 10.1186/s12977-015-0156-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human genome contains multiple LTR elements including human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) that together account for approximately 8-9% of the genomic DNA. At least 40 different HERV groups have been assigned to three major HERV classes on the basis of their homologies to exogenous retroviruses. Although most HERVs are silenced by a variety of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, they may be reactivated by environmental stimuli such as exogenous viruses and thus may contribute to pathogenic conditions. The objective of this study was to perform an in-depth analysis of the influence of HIV-1 infection on HERV activity in different cell types. RESULTS A retrovirus-specific microarray that covers major HERV groups from all three classes was used to analyze HERV transcription patterns in three persistently HIV-1 infected cell lines of different cellular origins and in their uninfected counterparts. All three persistently infected cell lines showed increased transcription of multiple class I and II HERV groups. Up-regulated transcription of five HERV taxa (HERV-E, HERV-T, HERV-K (HML-10) and two ERV9 subgroups) was confirmed by quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR analysis and could be reversed by knock-down of HIV-1 expression with HIV-1-specific siRNAs. Cells infected de novo by HIV-1 showed stronger transcriptional up-regulation of the HERV-K (HML-2) group than persistently infected cells of the same origin. Analysis of transcripts from individual members of this group revealed up-regulation of predominantly two proviral loci (ERVK-7 and ERVK-15) on chromosomes 1q22 and 7q34 in persistently infected KE37.1 cells, as well as in de novo HIV-1 infected LC5 cells, while only one single HML-2 locus (ERV-K6) on chromosome 7p22.1 was activated in persistently infected LC5 cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that HIV-1 can alter HERV transcription patterns of infected cells and indicate a correlation between activation of HERV elements and the level of HIV-1 production. Moreover, our results suggest that the effects of HIV-1 on HERV activity may be far more extensive and complex than anticipated from initial studies with clinical material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Vincendeau
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany. .,Research Unit Cellular Signal Integration, Institute of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Ingmar Göttesdorfer
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Julia M H Schreml
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Armand G Ngounou Wetie
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Jens Mayer
- Department of Human Genetics, Center of Human and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany.
| | - Alex D Greenwood
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Markus Helfer
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Susanne Kramer
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Wolfgang Seifarth
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Kamyar Hadian
- Research Unit Cellular Signal Integration, Institute of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany. .,Assay Development and Screening Platform, Institute of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Ruth Brack-Werner
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Christine Leib-Mösch
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany. .,Department of Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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15
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Brooks WH, Renaudineau Y. Epigenetics and autoimmune diseases: the X chromosome-nucleolus nexus. Front Genet 2015; 6:22. [PMID: 25763008 PMCID: PMC4329817 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2015.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases occur more often in females, suggesting a key role for the X chromosome. X chromosome inactivation, a major epigenetic feature in female cells that provides dosage compensation of X-linked genes to avoid overexpression, presents special vulnerabilities that can contribute to the disease process. Disruption of X inactivation can result in loss of dosage compensation with expression from previously sequestered genes, imbalance of gene products, and altered endogenous material out of normal epigenetic context. In addition, the human X has significant differences compared to other species and these differences can contribute to the frequency and intensity of the autoimmune disease in humans as well as the types of autoantigens encountered. Here a link is demonstrated between autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, and the X chromosome by discussing cases in which typically non-autoimmune disorders complicated with X chromosome abnormalities also present lupus-like symptoms. The discussion is then extended to the reported spatial and temporal associations of the inactive X chromosome with the nucleolus. When frequent episodes of cellular stress occur, the inactive X chromosome may be disrupted and inadvertently become involved in the nucleolar stress response. Development of autoantigens, many of which are at least transiently components of the nucleolus, is then described. Polyamines, which aid in nucleoprotein complex assembly in the nucleolus, increase further during cell stress, and appear to have an important role in the autoimmune disease process. Autoantigenic endogenous material can potentially be stabilized by polyamines. This presents a new paradigm for autoimmune diseases: that many are antigen-driven and the autoantigens originate from altered endogenous material due to episodes of cellular stress that disrupt epigenetic control. This suggests that epigenetics and the X chromosome are important aspects of autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley H Brooks
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Yves Renaudineau
- Research Unit INSERM ERI29/EA2216, SFR ScinBios, Labex Igo "Immunotherapy Graft, Oncology", Réseau Épigénétique et Réseau Canaux Ioniques du Cancéropole Grand Ouest, European University of Brittany Brest, France ; Laboratory of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Hôpital Morvan Brest, France
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16
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Wu Z, Mei X, Zhao D, Sun Y, Song J, Pan W, Shi W. DNA methylation modulates HERV-E expression in CD4+ T cells from systemic lupus erythematosus patients. J Dermatol Sci 2015; 77:110-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2014.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Revised: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Nelson P, Rylance P, Roden D, Trela M, Tugnet N. Viruses as potential pathogenic agents in systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2014; 23:596-605. [PMID: 24763543 DOI: 10.1177/0961203314531637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Genetic and environmental factors appear to contribute to the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Viral infections have been reported to be associated with the disease. A number of exogenous viruses have been linked to the pathogenesis of SLE, of which Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has the most evidence of an aetiological candidate. In addition, human endogenous retroviruses (HERV), HRES-1, ERV-3, HERV-E 4-1, HERV-K10 and HERV-K18 have also been implicated in SLE. HERVs are incorporated into human DNA, and thus can be inherited. HERVs may trigger an autoimmune reaction through molecular mimicry, since homology of amino acid sequences between HERV proteins and SLE autoantigens has been demonstrated. These viruses can also be influenced by oestrogen, DNA hypomethylation, and ultraviolet light (UVB) exposure which have been shown to enhance HERV activation or expression. Viral infection, or other environmental factors, could induce defective apoptosis, resulting in loss of immune tolerance. Further studies in SLE and other autoimmune diseases are needed to elucidate the contribution of both exogenous and endogenous viruses in the development of autoimmunity. If key peptide sequences could be identified as molecular mimics between viruses and autoantigens, then this might offer the possibility of the development of blocking peptides or antibodies as therapeutic agents in SLE and other autoimmune conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Nelson
- 1Molecular Immunology Research Group, Research Institute in Healthcare Science, University of Wolverhampton, UK
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18
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Bae JH, Eo J, Kim TO, Yi JM. Biological changes of transposable elements by radiation: recent progress. Genes Genomics 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s13258-014-0256-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Emmer A, Staege MS, Kornhuber ME. The retrovirus/superantigen hypothesis of multiple sclerosis. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2014; 34:1087-96. [PMID: 25138639 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-014-0100-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) is as yet unknown. Commonly, MS is assumed to be due to an autoimmune inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS). Neurodegeneration is regarded to be a secondary reaction. This concept is increasingly being challenged. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) that could be locally activated in the CNS have been proposed as an alternative concept. HERV-encoded envelope proteins (env) can act as strong immune stimulators (superantigens). Thus, slow disease progression following neurodegeneration might be induced by re-activation of HERV expression directly, while relapses in parallel to inflammation might be secondary to the expression of HERV-encoded superantigens. It has been shown previously that T-cell superantigens are capable to induce a cellular inflammatory reaction in the CNS of experimental animals similar to that in MS. Furthermore, B-cell superantigens have been shown to activate blood leucocytes in vitro to produce immunoglobulin in an oligoclonal manner. It remains to be established, whether the outlined hypothesis accords with all known features of MS. Furthermore, anti-HERV agents may be taken into consideration to enrich and improve MS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Emmer
- Department of Neurology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany,
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Gonzalez-Hernandez MJ, Cavalcoli JD, Sartor MA, Contreras-Galindo R, Meng F, Dai M, Dube D, Saha AK, Gitlin SD, Omenn GS, Kaplan MH, Markovitz DM. Regulation of the human endogenous retrovirus K (HML-2) transcriptome by the HIV-1 Tat protein. J Virol 2014; 88:8924-35. [PMID: 24872592 PMCID: PMC4136263 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00556-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Approximately 8% of the human genome is made up of endogenous retroviral sequences. As the HIV-1 Tat protein activates the overall expression of the human endogenous retrovirus type K (HERV-K) (HML-2), we used next-generation sequencing to determine which of the 91 currently annotated HERV-K (HML-2) proviruses are regulated by Tat. Transcriptome sequencing of total RNA isolated from Tat- and vehicle-treated peripheral blood lymphocytes from a healthy donor showed that Tat significantly activates expression of 26 unique HERV-K (HML-2) proviruses, silences 12, and does not significantly alter the expression of the remaining proviruses. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR validation of the sequencing data was performed on Tat-treated PBLs of seven donors using provirus-specific primers and corroborated the results with a substantial degree of quantitative similarity. IMPORTANCE The expression of HERV-K (HML-2) is tightly regulated but becomes markedly increased following infection with HIV-1, in part due to the HIV-1 Tat protein. The findings reported here demonstrate the complexity of the genome-wide regulation of HERV-K (HML-2) expression by Tat. This work also demonstrates that although HERV-K (HML-2) proviruses in the human genome are highly similar in terms of DNA sequence, modulation of the expression of specific proviruses in a given biological situation can be ascertained using next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta J Gonzalez-Hernandez
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - James D Cavalcoli
- Center for Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Maureen A Sartor
- Center for Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Fan Meng
- Center for Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Manhong Dai
- Center for Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Derek Dube
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anjan K Saha
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Scott D Gitlin
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Department of Veterans Affairs, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Gilbert S Omenn
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Center for Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA National Center for Integrative Biomedical Informatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mark H Kaplan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - David M Markovitz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Program in Cancer Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Young GR, Mavrommatis B, Kassiotis G. Microarray analysis reveals global modulation of endogenous retroelement transcription by microbes. Retrovirology 2014; 11:59. [PMID: 25063042 PMCID: PMC4222864 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4690-11-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A substantial proportion of both the mouse and human genomes comprise of endogenous retroelements (REs), which include endogenous retroviruses. Over evolutionary time, REs accumulate inactivating mutations or deletions and thus lose the ability to replicate. Additionally, REs can be transcriptionally repressed by dedicated mechanisms of the host. Nevertheless, many of them still possess and express intact open reading frames, and their transcriptional activity has been associated with many physiological and pathological processes of the host. However, this association remains tenuous due to incomplete understanding of the mechanism by which RE transcription is regulated. Here, we use a bioinformatics tool to examine RE transcriptional activity, measured by microarrays, in murine and human immune cells responding to microbial stimulation. RESULTS Immune cell activation by microbial signals in vitro caused extensive changes in the transcription not only of the host genes involved in the immune response, but also of numerous REs. Modulated REs were frequently found near or embedded within similarly-modulated host genes. Focusing on probes reporting single-integration, intergenic REs, revealed extensive transcriptional responsiveness of these elements to microbial signals. Microbial stimulation modulated RE expression in a cell-intrinsic manner. In line with these results, the transcriptional activity of numerous REs followed characteristics in different tissues according to exposure to environmental microbes and was further heavily altered during viral infection or imbalances with intestinal microbiota, both in mice and humans. CONCLUSIONS Together, these results highlight the utility of improved methodologies in assessing RE transcription profiles in both archived and new microarray data sets. More importantly, application of this methodology suggests that immune activation, as a result of infection with pathogens or dysbiosis with commensal microbes, causes global modulation of RE transcription. RE responsiveness to external stimuli should, therefore, be considered in any association between RE transcription and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - George Kassiotis
- Division of Immunoregulation, MRC National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, London NW7 1AA, UK.
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23
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Riga A, Belcastro MG, Moggi-Cecchi J. Environmental stress increases variability in the expression of dental cusps. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2013; 153:397-407. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.22438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 11/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Riga
- Department of Biological; Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna; 40126 Bologna Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Belcastro
- Department of Biological; Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna; 40126 Bologna Italy
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Maliniemi P, Vincendeau M, Mayer J, Frank O, Hahtola S, Karenko L, Carlsson E, Mallet F, Seifarth W, Leib-Mösch C, Ranki A. Expression of human endogenous retrovirus-w including syncytin-1 in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. PLoS One 2013; 8:e76281. [PMID: 24098463 PMCID: PMC3788054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 08/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathomechanism of mycosis fungoides (MF), the most common type of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) and a malignancy of non-recirculating, skin-resident T-cells, is unknown albeit underlying viral infections have been sought for. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are ancient retroviral sequences in the human genome and their transcription is often deregulated in cancers. We explored the transcriptional activity of HERV sequences in a total of 34 samples comprising MF and psoriasis skin lesions, as well as corresponding non-malignant skin using a retrovirus-specific microarray and quantitative RT-PCR. To identify active HERV-W loci, we cloned the HERV-W specific RT-PCR products, sequenced the cDNA clones and assigned the sequences to HERV-W loci. Finally, we used immunohistochemistry on MF patient and non-malignant inflammatory skin samples to confirm specific HERV-encoded protein expression. Firstly, a distinct, skin-specific transcription profile consisting of five constitutively active HERV groups was established. Although individual variability was common, HERV-W showed significantly increased transcription in MF lesions compared to clinically intact skin from the same patient. Predominantly transcribed HERV-W loci were found to be located in chromosomes 6q21 and 7q21.2, chromosomal regions typically altered in CTCL. Surprisingly, we also found the expression of 7q21.2/ERVWE1-encoded Syncytin-1 (Env) protein in MF biopsies and expression of Syncytin-1 was seen in malignant lymphocytes, especially in the epidermotropic ones, in 15 of 30 cases studied. Most importantly, no Syncytin-1 expression was detected in inflammatory dermatosis (Lichen ruber planus) with skin-homing, non-malignant T lymphocytes. The expression of ERVWE1 mRNA was further confirmed in 3/7 MF lesions analyzed. Our observations strengthen the association between activated HERVs and cancer. The study offers a new perspective into the pathogenesis of CTCL since we demonstrate that differences in HERV-W transcription levels between lesional MF and non-malignant skin are significant, and that ERVWE1-encoded Syncytin-1 is expressed in MF lymphoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilvi Maliniemi
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- * E-mail:
| | - Michelle Vincendeau
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Research Unit Cellular Signal Integration, Institute of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jens Mayer
- Department of Human Genetics, Center of Human and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Frank
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Mannheim Medical Center, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sonja Hahtola
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Leena Karenko
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Emilia Carlsson
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Francois Mallet
- Joint Unit Hospices Civils de Lyon-bioMérieux, Cancer Biomarkers Research Group, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Wolfgang Seifarth
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Mannheim Medical Center, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christine Leib-Mösch
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Mannheim Medical Center, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Annamari Ranki
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Activation of elements in HERV-W family by caffeine and aspirin. Virus Genes 2013; 47:219-27. [PMID: 23813246 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-013-0939-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Caffeine and aspirin have been suggested to be involved in neurologic diseases, such as schizophrenia, and previous data have revealed that abnormal expression of HERV-W elements may be an important factor in the etiopathogenesis of those diseases. In this article, we reported that caffeine and aspirin contributed to the expression of HERV-W env and gag in Human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR and quantitative Real-time PCR were used to detect the mRNA of HERV-W env and gag in cells exposed to caffeine or aspirin. Western blotting was used to detect the protein of HERV-W env. Luciferase activity assay was employed to detect the activity of HERV-W env promoter. It was found that both caffeine and aspirin could increase the expression of HERV-W env and gag in human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Caffeine could activate the HERV-W env promoter, while aspirin could not. With previous studies we can conjecture that HERVs might play a bridging role between environmental factors, such as drugs and neurologic diseases.
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Jung YD, Ahn K, Kim YJ, Bae JH, Lee JR, Kim HS. Retroelements: molecular features and implications for disease. Genes Genet Syst 2013; 88:31-43. [PMID: 23676708 DOI: 10.1266/ggs.88.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic genomes comprise numerous retroelements that have a major impact on the structure and regulation of gene function. Retroelements are regulated by epigenetic controls, and they generate multiple miRNAs that are involved in the induction and progression of genomic instability. Elucidation of the biological roles of retroelements deserves continuous investigation to better understand their evolutionary features and implications for disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Deun Jung
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 609-735, Republic of Korea
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Cegolon L, Salata C, Weiderpass E, Vineis P, Palù G, Mastrangelo G. Human endogenous retroviruses and cancer prevention: evidence and prospects. BMC Cancer 2013; 13:4. [PMID: 23282240 PMCID: PMC3557136 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-13-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Accepted: 12/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer is a significant and growing problem worldwide. While this increase may, in part, be attributed to increasing longevity, improved case notifications and risk-enhancing lifestyle (such as smoking, diet and obesity), hygiene-related factors resulting in immuno-regulatory failure may also play a major role and call for a revision of vaccination strategies to protect against a range of cancers in addition to infections. Discussion Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are a significant component of a wider family of retroelements that constitutes part of the human genome. They were originated by the integration of exogenous retroviruses into the human genome millions of years ago. HERVs are estimated to comprise about 8% of human DNA and are ubiquitous in somatic and germinal tissues. Physiologic and pathologic processes are influenced by some biologically active HERV families. HERV antigens are only expressed at low levels by the host, but in circumstances of inappropriate control their genes may initiate or maintain pathological processes. Although the precise mechanism leading to abnormal HERVs gene expression has yet to be clearly elucidated, environmental factors seem to be involved by influencing the human immune system. HERV-K expression has been detected in different types of tumors. Among the various human endogenous retroviral families, the K series was the latest acquired by the human species. Probably because of its relatively recent origin, the HERV-K is the most complete and biologically active family. The abnormal expression of HERV-K seemingly triggers pathological processes leading to melanoma onset, but also contributes to the morphological and functional cellular modifications implicated in melanoma maintenance and progression. The HERV-K-MEL antigen is encoded by a pseudo-gene incorporated in the HERV-K env-gene. HERV-K-MEL is significantly expressed in the majority of dysplastic and normal naevi, as well as other tumors like sarcoma, lymphoma, bladder and breast cancer. An amino acid sequence similar to HERV-K-MEL, recognized to cause a significant protective effect against melanoma, is shared by the antigenic determinants expressed by some vaccines such as BCG, vaccinia virus and the yellow fever virus. HERV-K are also reactivated in the majority of human breast cancers. Monoclonal and single-chain antibodies against the HERV-K Env protein recently proved capable of blocking the proliferation of human breast cancer cells in vitro, inhibiting tumor growth in mice bearing xenograft tumors. Summary A recent epidemiological study provided provisional evidence of how melanoma risk could possibly be reduced if the yellow fever virus vaccine (YFV) were received at least 10 years before, possibly preventing tumor initiation rather than culling melanoma cells already compromised. Further research is recommended to confirm the temporal pattern of this protection and eliminate/attenuate the potential role of relevant confounders as socio-economic status and other vaccinations. It appears also appropriate to examine the potential protective effect of YFV against other malignancies expressing high levels of HERV-K antigens, namely breast cancer, sarcoma, lymphoma and bladder cancer. Tumor immune-therapy, as described for the monoclonal antibodies against breast cancer, is indeed considered more complex and less advantageous than immune-prevention. Cellular immunity possibly triggered by vaccines as for YFV might also be involved in anti-cancer response, in addition to humoral immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cegolon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
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Lee JR, Ahn K, Kim YJ, Jung YD, Kim HS. Radiation-induced human endogenous retrovirus (HERV)-R env gene expression by epigenetic control. Radiat Res 2012; 178:379-84. [PMID: 23004920 DOI: 10.1667/rr2888.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
It is commonly accepted that ionizing radiation induces genomic instability by changes in genomic structure, epigenetic regulation and gene expression. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERV)-R also are often differentially expressed between normal and disease tissues under unstable genomic conditions and are implicated in the pathogenesis of several human diseases. To understand the influence of ionizing radiation on HERV-R expression, we performed quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses using γ-irradiated normal human cells. Compared to nonirradiated cells, HERV-R expression was up-regulated in γ-irradiated cells. The regulatory mechanism of HERV-R expression in irradiated cells was investigated by methylation analyses of HERV-R 5'LTRs and treatment with garcinol. These data indicated that the up-regulated transcription of HERV-R may be regulated by radiation-induced epigenetic changes induced by histone modification, and thus could be of great importance for understanding the relationship between radiation-induced biological effects and transposable elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ja-Rang Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 609-735, Republic of Korea
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29
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Lee JR, Kim HS. Radiation-induced retroelement-mediated genomic instability. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-012-0008-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Expression of human endogenous retrovirus type K (HML-2) is activated by the Tat protein of HIV-1. J Virol 2012; 86:7790-805. [PMID: 22593154 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.07215-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) make up 8% of the human genome. The expression of HERV-K (HML-2), the family of HERVs that most recently entered the genome, is tightly regulated but becomes markedly increased after infection with HIV-1. To better understand the mechanisms involved in this activation, we explored the role of the HIV-1 Tat protein in inducing the expression of these endogenous retroviral genes. Administration of recombinant HIV-1 Tat protein caused a 13-fold increase in HERV-K (HML-2) gag RNA transcripts in Jurkat T cells and a 10-fold increase in primary lymphocytes, and the expression of the HERV-K (HML-2) rec and np9 oncogenes was also markedly increased. This activation was seen especially in lymphocytes and monocytic cells, the natural hosts for HIV-1 infection. Luciferase reporter gene assays demonstrated that the effect of Tat on HERV-K (HML-2) expression occurred at the level of the transcriptional promoter. The transcription factors NF-κB and NF-AT contribute to the Tat-induced activation of the promoter, as shown by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, mutational analysis of the HERV-K (HML-2) long terminal repeat, and treatments with agents that inhibit NF-κB or NF-AT activation. These studies demonstrate that HIV-1 Tat plays an important role in activating expression of HERV-K (HML-2) in the setting of HIV-1 infection.
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Wu Y, Qi X, Gong L, Xing G, Chen M, Miao L, Yao J, Suzuki T, Furihata C, Luan Y, Ren J. Identification of BC005512 as a DNA damage responsive murine endogenous retrovirus of GLN family involved in cell growth regulation. PLoS One 2012; 7:e35010. [PMID: 22514700 PMCID: PMC3325921 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0035010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2011] [Accepted: 03/08/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Genotoxicity assessment is of great significance in drug safety evaluation, and microarray is a useful tool widely used to identify genotoxic stress responsive genes. In the present work, by using oligonucleotide microarray in an in vivo model, we identified an unknown gene BC005512 (abbreviated as BC, official full name: cDNA sequence BC005512), whose expression in mouse liver was specifically induced by seven well-known genotoxins (GTXs), but not by non-genotoxins (NGTXs). Bioinformatics revealed that BC was a member of the GLN family of murine endogenous retrovirus (ERV). However, the relationship to genotoxicity and the cellular function of GLN are largely unknown. Using NIH/3T3 cells as an in vitro model system and quantitative real-time PCR, BC expression was specifically induced by another seven GTXs, covering diverse genotoxicity mechanisms. Additionally, dose-response and linear regression analysis showed that expression level of BC in NIH/3T3 cells strongly correlated with DNA damage, measured using the alkaline comet assay,. While in p53 deficient L5178Y cells, GTXs could not induce BC expression. Further functional studies using RNA interference revealed that down-regulation of BC expression induced G1/S phase arrest, inhibited cell proliferation and thus suppressed cell growth in NIH/3T3 cells. Together, our results provide the first evidence that BC005512, a member from GLN family of murine ERV, was responsive to DNA damage and involved in cell growth regulation. These findings could be of great value in genotoxicity predictions and contribute to a deeper understanding of GLN biological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanfeng Wu
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinming Qi
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Likun Gong
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Guozhen Xing
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Chen
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingling Miao
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Yao
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Takayoshi Suzuki
- Division of Cellular and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chie Furihata
- Department of Chemistry and Biological Science, School of Science and Engineering, Aoyama Gakuin University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yang Luan
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (YL); (JR)
| | - Jin Ren
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, State Key Laboratory of New Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (YL); (JR)
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Abstract
Recent progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms of the initiation and progression of melanoma has created new opportunities for developing novel therapeutic modalities to manage this potentially lethal disease. Although at first glance, melanoma carcinogenesis appears to be a chaotic system, it is indeed, arguably, a deterministic multistep process involving sequential alterations of proto-oncogenes, tumour suppressors and miRNA genes. The scope of this article is to discuss the most recent and significant advances in melanoma molecular therapeutics. It is apparent that using single agents targeting solely individual melanoma pathways might be insufficient for long-term survival. However, the outstanding results on melanoma survival observed with novel selective inhibitors of B-RAF, such as PLX4032 give hope that melanoma can be cured. The fact that melanoma develops acquired resistance to PLX4032 emphasises the importance of simultaneously targeting several pathways. Because the most striking feature of melanoma is its unsurpassed ability to metastasise, it is important to implement newer systems for drug delivery adapted from research on stem cells and nanotechnology.
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Ariza ME, Williams MV. A human endogenous retrovirus K dUTPase triggers a TH1, TH17 cytokine response: does it have a role in psoriasis? J Invest Dermatol 2011; 131:2419-27. [PMID: 21776007 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2011.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory immune disease of the skin characterized by a complex interplay between multiple risk genes and their interactions with environmental factors. Recent haplotype analyses have suggested that deoxyuridine triphosphate nucleotidohydrolase (dUTPase) encoded by a human endogenous retrovirus K (HERV-K) may be a candidate gene for the psoriasis susceptibility 1 locus. However, no functional studies have been conducted to determine the role of HERV-K dUTPase in psoriasis. For this purpose, we constructed an HERV-K dUTPase wild-type sequence, as well as specific mutations reflecting the genotype characteristic of high- and low-risk haplotypes, purified the recombinant proteins, and evaluated whether they could modulate innate and/or adaptive immune responses. In this study, we demonstrate that wild-type and mutant HERV-K dUTPase proteins induce the activation of NF-κB through Toll-like receptor 2, independent of enzymatic activity. Proteome array studies revealed that treatment of human primary cells with wild-type and mutant HERV-K dUTPase proteins triggered the secretion of T(H)1 and T(H)17 cytokines involved in the formation of psoriatic plaques, including IL-12p40, IL-23, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-8, and CCL20, in dendritic/Langerhans-like cells and to a lesser extent in keratinocytes. These data support HERV-K dUTPase as a potential contributor to psoriasis pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Eugenia Ariza
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA.
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Schanab O, Humer J, Gleiss A, Mikula M, Sturlan S, Grunt S, Okamoto I, Muster T, Pehamberger H, Waltenberger A. Expression of human endogenous retrovirus K is stimulated by ultraviolet radiation in melanoma. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2011; 24:656-65. [PMID: 21501418 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-148x.2011.00860.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) represent a cellular reservoir of potentially pathogenic retroviral genes. A growing body of evidence indicates that the activation of endogenous retroviral sequences might be involved in the transformation of melanocytes. In this study, we investigated the effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on the expression of human endogenous retrovirus type K (HERV-K) in melanoma cells and non-melanoma cells in vitro. Solely in melanoma cell lines, irradiation with UVB (200 mJ/cm(2)) resulted in a significant transcriptional activation of the retroviral pol gene as well as in an enhanced expression of the retroviral envelope protein (env). In addition, UVB treatment induced the production of retroviral particles in the supernatants of melanoma cell lines. These data indicate that HERV-K expression can be activated by UVB irradiation and suggest an involvement of HERV-K in UVR-related melanoma pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Schanab
- Department of Dermatology, Division of General Dermatology, Medical University Vienna, Waehringer Guertel, Vienna, Austria.
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The transposon-driven evolutionary origin and basis of histone deacetylase functions and limitations in disease prevention. Clin Epigenetics 2011; 2:97-112. [PMID: 22704332 PMCID: PMC3365375 DOI: 10.1007/s13148-011-0020-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 01/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are homologous to prokaryotic enzymes that removed acetyl groups from non-histone proteins before the evolution of eukaryotic histones. Enzymes inherited from prokaryotes or from a common ancestor were adapted for histone deacetylation, while useful deacetylation of non-histone proteins was selectively retained. Histone deacetylation served to prevent transcriptions with pathological consequences, including the expression of viral DNA and the deletion or dysregulation of vital genes by random transposon insertions. Viruses are believed to have evolved from transposons, with transposons providing the earliest impetus of HDAC evolution. Because of the wide range of genes potentially affected by transposon insertions, the range of diseases that can be prevented by HDACs is vast and inclusive. Repressive chromatin modifications that may prevent transcription also include methylation of selective lysine residues of histones H3 and H4 and the methylation of selective DNA cytosines following specific histone lysine methylation. Methylation and acetylation of individual histone residues are mutually exclusive. While transposons were sources of disease to be prevented by HDAC evolution, they were also the source of numerous and valuable coding and regulatory sequences recruited by “molecular domestication.” Those sequences contribute to evolved complex transcription regulation in which components with contradictory effects, such as HDACs and HATs, may be coordinated and complementary. Within complex transcription regulation, however, HDACs remain ineffective as defense against some critical infectious and non-infectious diseases because evolutionary compromises have rendered their activity transient.
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Differential expression of human endogenous retrovirus K transcripts in primary human melanocytes and melanoma cell lines after UV irradiation. Melanoma Res 2011; 20:435-40. [PMID: 20539243 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0b013e32833c1b5d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are discussed as causative agents of various diseases including cancers. Expression of endogenous retroviral sequences can be induced by ultraviolet (UV) light, which is also considered as a cofactor in the development of cutaneous melanoma. Therefore, we investigated whether ultraviolet C (UVC) induces HERV-K rec and np9 expression in normal human epidermal melanocytes (NHEM) and in melanoma cell lines. NHEM and four different melanoma cell lines were irradiated with 10 and 30 mJ/cm(2) UVC, respectively. Expression of the HERV-K transcripts rec and np9 was measured 0, 6, 12, and 24 h after UV exposure by quantitative real-time PCR. In NHEM, HERV-K rec expression was significantly induced 24 h after UV exposure with 10 mJ/cm(2) UVC, whereas np9 expression transiently increased 6 and 12 h after irradiation with both UV doses. In contrast, in melanoma cell lines MEWO, G-361 and GR-M rec, and np9 expression was downregulated or remained unchanged after UV treatment. UVC irradiation induced HERV-K rec and np9 expression in NHEM, which might be an indicator of a functional role of Rec and/or Np9 in melanoma formation.
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Cedeno-Laurent F, Gómez-Flores M, Mendez N, Ancer-Rodríguez J, Bryant JL, Gaspari AA, Trujillo JR. New insights into HIV-1-primary skin disorders. J Int AIDS Soc 2011; 14:5. [PMID: 21261982 PMCID: PMC3037296 DOI: 10.1186/1758-2652-14-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2010] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first reports of AIDS, skin involvement has become a burdensome stigma for seropositive patients and a challenging task for dermatologist and infectious disease specialists due to the severe and recalcitrant nature of the conditions. Dermatologic manifestations in AIDS patients act as markers of disease progression, a fact that enhances the importance of understanding their pathogenesis. Broadly, cutaneous disorders associated with HIV type-1 infection can be classified as primary and secondary. While the pathogenesis of secondary complications, such as opportunistic infections and skin tumours, is directly correlated with a decline in the CD4+ T cell count, the origin of the certain manifestations primarily associated with the retroviral infection itself still remains under investigation. The focus of this review is to highlight the immunological phenomena that occur in the skin of HIV-1-seropositive patients, which ultimately lead to skin disorders, such as seborrhoeic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and eosinophilic folliculitis. Furthermore, we compile the latest data on how shifts in the cytokines milieu, impairments of the innate immune compartment, reactions to xenobiotics and autoimmunity are causative agents in HIV-1-driven skin diseases. Additionally, we provide a thorough analysis of the small animal models currently used to study HIV-1-associated skin complications, centering on transgenic rodent models, which unfortunately, have not been able to fully unveil the role of HIV-1 genes in the pathogenesis of their primarily associated dermatological manifestations.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Genetic and environmental factors influence the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are proposed as a molecular link between the human genome and environmental factors, such as viruses, in lupus pathogenesis. RECENT FINDINGS The HRES-1 human ERV encodes a 28-kD nuclear autoantigen and a 24-kD small GTP-ase, termed HRES-1/Rab4. HRES-1/p28 is a target of cross-reactive antiviral antibodies, whereas HRES-1/Rab4 regulates the surface expression of CD4 via endosome recycling. The tat gene of HIV-1 induces the expression of HRES-1/Rab4, which in turn downregulates expression of CD4 and susceptibility to reinfection by HIV-1. HRES-1/Rab4 is overexpressed in lupus T cells where it correlates with increased recycling of CD4 and CD3 and contributes to downregulation of CD3/TCRzeta via lysosomal degradation. Chilblain lupus has been linked to the deficiency of 3'-5' repair exonuclease Trex1 that metabolizes DNA reverse-transcribed from ERV. Trex1 deficiency or blocked integration of ERV-encoded DNA also promotes lupus in murine models. SUMMARY ERV proteins may trigger lupus through structural and functional molecular mimicry, whereas the accumulation of ERV-derived nucleic acids stimulates interferon and anti-DNA antibody production in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andras Perl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine and Microbiology and Immunology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA.
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Balada E, Vilardell-Tarrés M, Ordi-Ros J. Implication of Human Endogenous Retroviruses in the Development of Autoimmune Diseases. Int Rev Immunol 2010; 29:351-70. [DOI: 10.3109/08830185.2010.485333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Balada E, Ordi-Ros J, Vilardell-Tarrés M. Molecular mechanisms mediated by human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in autoimmunity. Rev Med Virol 2009; 19:273-86. [DOI: 10.1002/rmv.622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Tinari A, Superti F, Ammendolia MG, Chiozzini C, Hohenadl C, Leone P, Nappi F, Nicoletti M, Borsetti A, Marchetti M, Ensoli B, Monini P. Primary effusion lymphoma cells undergoing human herpesvirus type 8 productive infection produce C-type retroviral particles. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2009; 21:999-1006. [PMID: 19144286 DOI: 10.1177/039463200802100425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary effusion lymphomas (PELs) are invariably infected by the human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8)that is present in most PEL cells as latent virus but replicates in a subset of permissive cells to produce infectious progeny. Here we show that productively infected PEL cells release C-type retrovirus-like particles encoding an Mn++-dependent RT activity, which is typical of endogenous retroviruses. Strikingly, C-type particles are produced only in cells showing advanced HHV8 morphogenesis. Phorbol esters, which induce productive HHV8 replication and morphogenesis in PEL cells, increase RLP production. Phosphonoacetic acid, a blocker of HHV8 late gene expression, inhibits the production of C-type particles, whereas neutralizing anti-alphaIFN antibodies, which are known to increase HHV8 assembly, increases C-type particle production. These data suggest that factors expressed in advanced stages of HHV8 reactivation support endogenous C-type particle morphogenesis in PEL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tinari
- Department of Technology and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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The activation of human endogenous retrovirus K (HERV-K) is implicated in melanoma cell malignant transformation. Exp Cell Res 2009; 315:849-62. [PMID: 19167380 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2008.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2008] [Revised: 11/18/2008] [Accepted: 12/27/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma development is a multi-step process arising from a series of genetic and epigenetic events. Although the sequential stages involved in progression from melanocytes to malignant melanoma are clearly defined, our current understanding of the mechanisms leading to melanoma onset is still incomplete. Growing evidence show that the activation of endogenous retroviral sequences might be involved in transformation of melanocytes as well as in the increased ability of melanoma cells to escape immune surveillance. Here we show that human melanoma cells in vitro undergo a transition from adherent to a more malignant, non-adherent phenotype when exposed to stress conditions. Melanoma-derived non-adherent cells are characterized by an increased proliferative potential and a decreased expression of both HLA class I molecules and Melan-A/MART-1 antigen, similarly to highly malignant cells. These phenotypic and functional modifications are accompanied by the activation of human endogenous retrovirus K expression (HERV-K) and massive production of viral-like particles. Down-regulation of HERV-K expression by RNA interference prevents the transition from the adherent to the non-adherent growth phenotype in low serum. These results implicate HERV-K in at least some critical steps of melanoma progression.
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Perl A, Nagy G, Koncz A, Gergely P, Fernandez D, Doherty E, Telarico T, Bonilla E, Phillips PE. Molecular mimicry and immunomodulation by the HRES-1 endogenous retrovirus in SLE. Autoimmunity 2008; 41:287-97. [PMID: 18432409 PMCID: PMC5294745 DOI: 10.1080/08916930802024764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Genetic and environmental factors are believed to influence development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Endogenous retroviruses (ERV) correspond to the integrated proviral form of infectious retroviruses, which are trapped within the genome due to mutations. ERV represent a key molecular link between the host genome and infectious viral particles. ERV-encoded proteins are recognized by antiviral immune responses and become targets of autoreactivity. Alternatively, ERV protein may influence cellular processes and the life cycle of infectious viruses. As examples, the HRES-1 human ERV encodes a 28-kDa nuclear autoantigen and a 24-kDa small GTP-ase, termed HRES-1/Rab4. HRES-1/p28 is a nuclear autoantigen recognized by cross-reactive antiviral antibodies, while HRES-1/Rab4 regulates surface expression of CD4 and the transferrin receptor (TFR) through endosome recycling. Expression of HRES-1/Rab4 is induced by the tat gene of HIV-1, which in turn down-regulates expression of CD4 and susceptibility to re-infection by HIV-1. CD4 and the TFR play essential roles in formation of the immunological synapse (IS) during normal T-cell activation by a cognate MHC class II peptide complex. The key intracellular transducer of T-cell activation, Lck, is brought to the IS via binding to CD4. T-cell receptorzeta (TCRzeta) chain binds to the TFR. Abnormal T-cell responses in SLE have been associated with reduced lck and TCRzeta chain levels. HRES-1 is centrally located on chromosome 1 at q42 relative to lupus-linked microsatellite markers and polymorphic HRES-1 alleles have been linked to the development of SLE. 1q42 is one of the three most common fragile sites in the human genome, and is inducible by DNA demethylation, a known mechanism of retroviral gene activation. Molecular mimicry and immunomodulation by a ERV, such as HRES-1, may contribute to self-reactivity and abnormal T and B-cell functions in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andras Perl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
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Voisset C, Weiss RA, Griffiths DJ. Human RNA "rumor" viruses: the search for novel human retroviruses in chronic disease. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2008; 72:157-96, table of contents. [PMID: 18322038 PMCID: PMC2268285 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00033-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retroviruses are an important group of pathogens that cause a variety of diseases in humans and animals. Four human retroviruses are currently known, including human immunodeficiency virus type 1, which causes AIDS, and human T-lymphotropic virus type 1, which causes cancer and inflammatory disease. For many years, there have been sporadic reports of additional human retroviral infections, particularly in cancer and other chronic diseases. Unfortunately, many of these putative viruses remain unproven and controversial, and some retrovirologists have dismissed them as merely "human rumor viruses." Work in this field was last reviewed in depth in 1984, and since then, the molecular techniques available for identifying and characterizing retroviruses have improved enormously in sensitivity. The advent of PCR in particular has dramatically enhanced our ability to detect novel viral sequences in human tissues. However, DNA amplification techniques have also increased the potential for false-positive detection due to contamination. In addition, the presence of many families of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) within our DNA can obstruct attempts to identify and validate novel human retroviruses. Here, we aim to bring together the data on "novel" retroviral infections in humans by critically examining the evidence for those putative viruses that have been linked with disease and the likelihood that they represent genuine human infections. We provide a background to the field and a discussion of potential confounding factors along with some technical guidelines. In addition, some of the difficulties associated with obtaining formal proof of causation for common or ubiquitous agents such as HERVs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Voisset
- CNRS-UMR8161, Institut de Biologie de Lille et Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
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Abstract
Psoriasis can be provoked or exacerbated by a variety of different environmental factors, particularly infections and drugs. Strong evidence exists for the induction of guttate psoriasis by a preceding tonsillar Streptococcus pyogenes infection, whereas disease exacerbation has been linked with skin and/or gut colonization by Staphylococcus aureus, Malassezia, and Candida albicans. The role, if any, of viruses (papillomaviruses, HIV, and endogenous retroviruses) present in lesional skin is at present unknown. The use of various drugs, such as lithium, beta-blockers, antimalarial agents, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, has also been associated with induction or worsening of disease in psoriatic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Fry
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, St Mary's Campus, W2 1PG London, UK.
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Guilhou JJ, Molès JP. New Hypotheses in the Genetics of Psoriasis and Other ‘Complex’ Diseases. Dermatology 2008; 216:87-92. [DOI: 10.1159/000111504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2007] [Accepted: 07/18/2007] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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Molès JP, Tesniere A, Guilhou JJ. Reverse transcriptase activity in human normal and psoriatic skin samples. Br J Dermatol 2007; 157:482-6. [PMID: 17614977 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2007.08022.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About half of the human genome is composed of ancient transposable elements that became integrated in the genome throughout the course of evolution by DNA transposition or by retrotransposition. Most of these elements have degenerated. However, a few of them have conserved their coding capacities and could still have a role in physiological and pathological processes. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether reverse transcriptase (RT) of human endogenous retroelements can be expressed at the protein level and can also be functional, and to associate RT expression and activity to a pathological situation, namely psoriasis. METHODS Expression of RT proteins was investigated by immunohistochemistry on normal (n = 11), psoriatic (n = 19) and atopic (n = 12) skin sections and by Western blot on normal skin protein extracts. RT activity was measured by a colorimetric method in protein extracts from normal (n = 17) and lesional psoriatic (n = 35) skin. Two assays were performed in each extract: one was optimized for Moloney murine leukaemia virus or mammalian C-type retroviruses, and the other for mouse mammary tumour virus or D-type retroviruses. RESULTS RT proteins were detected in the uppermost layer of the epidermis and in a few dermal cells of normal skin. The main protein had a molecular weight of 57 kDa. An increased number of RT-positive cells was stained in the psoriatic lesion both within the epidermis and within the dermal compartment. In addition, a massive staining was noted in Munro's abscesses. Finally, RT activities were 2-3 times higher in psoriatic protein extracts than in normal skin protein extracts. CONCLUSIONS Active endogenous retroelements can produce functional RT proteins. In normal skin, we observed RT expression in all samples tested whereas RT activity was barely detectable. In psoriatic samples, the number of RT-positive cells was increased, as was the RT activity. This latter characteristic allowed us to determine a subset of psoriatic samples with an increased Mg(2+) RT activity. These results suggest that a basal level of endogenous retroelement activity exists in normal skin and that keratinocyte hyperproliferation and/or inflammation observed in psoriasis promote this activity. The role of endogenous retroelements in skin physiology and pathology deserves attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-P Molès
- Laboratoire de Dermatologie Moléculaire, Université Montpellier I, 641 avenue du Doyen G. Giraud, 34093 Montpellier cedex 5, France.
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Abstract
Molecular epidemiologic proof that HERVs and other retroelements are involved in autoimmunity or other disorders is complicated by their large numbers in the human genome. As discussed, most HERVs are no longer functional or active because of the accumulation of mutations, frameshifts, and deletions. Detection or quantification of HERV transcripts that may be pathologically involved in a particular autoimmune disease thus is often compromised by the presence in great excess of related, but nonfunctional, RNA. This phenomenon should not deter active work in the field, although it will require development of improved methods to discriminate accurately between closely related RNA transcripts. Development of improved immunologic methods to precisely identify epitopes on autoantigens or rare self-reactive T-cell clones may further implicate HERVs and the other repetitive elements in regulation of the immune system in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Colmegna
- Section of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 2020 Gravier Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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Romanish MT, Lock WM, van de Lagemaat LN, Dunn CA, Mager DL. Repeated recruitment of LTR retrotransposons as promoters by the anti-apoptotic locus NAIP during mammalian evolution. PLoS Genet 2006; 3:e10. [PMID: 17222062 PMCID: PMC1781489 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.0030010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2006] [Accepted: 12/05/2006] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein (NAIP, also known as BIRC1) is a member of the conserved inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family. Lineage-specific rearrangements and expansions of this locus have yielded different copy numbers among primates and rodents, with human retaining a single functional copy and mouse possessing several copies, depending on the strain. Roles for this gene in disease have been documented, but little is known about transcriptional regulation of NAIP. We show here that NAIP has multiple promoters sharing no similarity between human and rodents. Moreover, we demonstrate that multiple, domesticated long terminal repeats (LTRs) of endogenous retroviral elements provide NAIP promoter function in human, mouse, and rat. In human, an LTR serves as a tissue-specific promoter, active primarily in testis. However, in rodents, our evidence indicates that an ancestral LTR common to all rodent genes is the major, constitutive promoter for these genes, and that a second LTR found in two of the mouse genes is a minor promoter. Thus, independently acquired LTRs have assumed regulatory roles for orthologous genes, a remarkable evolutionary scenario. We also demonstrate that 5′ flanking regions of IAP family genes as a group, in both human and mouse are enriched for LTR insertions compared to average genes. We propose several potential explanations for these findings, including a hypothesis that recruitment of LTRs near NAIP or other IAP genes may represent a host-cell adaptation to modulate apoptotic responses. When retroviruses infect cells, the viral DNA inserts into the cellular genome. If this happens in gametes (egg or sperm), the viral DNA will be transmitted from parent to offspring, like all chromosomal DNA. Through evolutionary time, such infections of gametes have been so prevalent that 8%–10% of the normal human and mouse genomes are now composed of ancient viral DNA, termed endogenous retroviruses (ERVs). In human, these ERVs are mutated or “dead” but it has been shown that ERV regulatory regions can be employed by the host to help control expression of cellular genes. Here, we report on a remarkable example of this phenomenon. We demonstrate that both the human and rodent neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein (NAIP) genes, involved in preventing cell death, use different ERV sequences to drive gene expression. Moreover, in each of the primate and rodent lineages, two separate ERVs contribute to NAIP gene expression. This repeated ERV recruitment by NAIP genes throughout evolution is very unlikely to have occurred by chance. We offer a number of potential explanations, including the intriguing possibility that it may be advantageous for anti-cell death genes like NAIP to use ERVs to control their expression. These results support the view that not all retroviral remnants in our genome are simply junk DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark T Romanish
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Wynne M Lock
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Louie N. van de Lagemaat
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Catherine A Dunn
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dixie L Mager
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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