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Li X, Gu Y, Liao C, Ma X, Bi Y, Lian Y, Huang Y. A comprehensive model to better screen out antiviral treatment candidates for chronic hepatitis B patients. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 140:112848. [PMID: 39096876 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112848] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious human health threat given its high morbidity and mortality. Timely and effective antiviral treatment can postpone liver disease progression and reduce the occurrence of HBV-related end-stage liver disease. At present, the antiviral treatment criteria are mainly based on alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, HBV DNA levels and HBV e antigen levels according to the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases treatment guidelines. However, some chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients not meeting the above criteria still experience liver disease progression without antiviral treatment. It is urgent to identify a more comprehensive tool to screen out more antiviral treatment candidates as soon as possible. METHODS Considering the vital role of the immune response in the development of HBV infection and CHB cure, we collected data from 335 treatment-naïve CHB patients and comprehensively analysed their clinical and immune traits (including innate and adaptive responses). The immune parameters were obtained by flow cytometry. Finally, we established a model that can better distinguished CHB patients who need treatment through machine learning and LASSO regression of serological and immune parameters. RESULTS Through a series of analyses, we selected four important clinical parameters (ALT, HBV DNA, the Fibroscan value, and the A/G ratio) and four immune indicators (NKbright + NKp44+, NKbright + NKG2A+, NKT+GranzymeB+, and CD3 + CD107a + ) from more than 200 variables and then successfully established a mathematical model with high sensitivity and specificity to better screen out antiviral treatment candidates from all CHB patients. CONCLUSIONS Our results developed a refined model to better screen out antiviral treatment candidates from all CHB patients by combining common clinical parameters and important immune indicators, including innate and adaptive immunity. These findings provide more information for improving treatment guidelines and have potential implications for the timing of antiviral therapy to achieve better virus control and reduce the occurrence of end-stage liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yurong Gu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunhong Liao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinyi Ma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanhua Bi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Lian
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuehua Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Selim MA, Suef RA, Saied E, Abdel-Maksoud MA, Almutairi SM, Aufy M, Mousa AA, Mansour MTM, Farag MMS. Peripheral NK cell phenotypic alteration and dysfunctional state post hepatitis B subviral particles stimulation in CHB patients: evading immune surveillance. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1427519. [PMID: 39328404 PMCID: PMC11424423 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1427519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The relationship between chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection and natural killer (NK) cell dysfunction is well-established, but the specific role of HBV viral antigens in driving NK cell impairment in patients with CHB remains unclear. This study investigates the modulatory effects of hepatitis B virus subviral particles (HBVsvp, a representative model for HBsAg) on the phenotypic regulation (activating and inhibitory receptors), cytokine production and cytotoxic potential of peripheral blood mononuclear cell-derived natural killer cells (PBMCs-derived NK cell), which contributes to NK cell dysfunction in CHB infection, potentially serving as an effective HBV immune evasion strategy by the virus. Methods NK cells were isolated from peripheral blood of patients with CHB (n=5) and healthy individuals (n=5), stimulated with HBVsvp. Subsequent flow cytometric characterization involved assessing changes in activating (NKp46 and NKG2D) and inhibitory (CD94) receptors expression, quantifying TNF-α and IFN- γ cytokine secretion, and evaluating the cytotoxic response against HepG2.2.15 cells with subsequent HBVsvp quantification. Results In CHB patients, in vitro exposure of PBMCs-derived NK cell with HBVsvp (represent HBsAg model) significantly reduced NK cell-activating receptors expression (P = 0.022), increased expression of CD94 + NK cells (p = 0.029), accompanied with a reduced TNF-α - IFN-γ cytokine levels, and impaired cytotoxic capacity (evidenced by increased cell proliferation and elevated HBVsvp levels in co-cultures with HepG2.2.15 cells in a time-dependent), relative to healthy donors. Conclusion These findings suggest that HBVsvp may induce dysfunctional NK cell responses characterized by phenotypic imbalance with subsequent reduction in cytokine and cytotoxic levels, indicating HBVsvp immunosuppressive effect that compromises antiviral defense in CHB patients. These data enhance our understanding of NK cell interactions with HBsAg and highlight the potential for targeting CD94 inhibitory receptors to restore NK cell function as an immunotherapeutic approach. Further clinical research is needed to validate these observations and establish their utility as reliable biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Selim
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Reda A Suef
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ebrahim Saied
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mostafa A Abdel-Maksoud
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeedah Musaed Almutairi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Aufy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Adel A Mousa
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed T M Mansour
- Virology and Immunology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University and Childern's Cancer Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M S Farag
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
- Biomedical Research Department, Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt
- The Regional Centre for Mycology and Biotechnology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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3
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Piersma SJ. Tissue-specific features of innate lymphoid cells in antiviral defense. Cell Mol Immunol 2024; 21:1036-1050. [PMID: 38684766 PMCID: PMC11364677 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-024-01161-x] [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: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphocytes (ILCs) rapidly respond to and protect against invading pathogens and cancer. ILCs include natural killer (NK) cells, ILC1s, ILC2s, ILC3s, and lymphoid tissue inducer (LTi) cells and include type I, type II, and type III immune cells. While NK cells have been well recognized for their role in antiviral immunity, other ILC subtypes are emerging as players in antiviral defense. Each ILC subset has specialized functions that uniquely impact the antiviral immunity and health of the host depending on the tissue microenvironment. This review focuses on the specialized functions of each ILC subtype and their roles in antiviral immune responses across tissues. Several viruses within infection-prone tissues will be highlighted to provide an overview of the extent of the ILC immunity within tissues and emphasize common versus virus-specific responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sytse J Piersma
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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4
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Sun B, da Costa KAS, Alrubayyi A, Kokici J, Fisher-Pearson N, Hussain N, D'Anna S, Piermatteo L, Salpini R, Svicher V, Kucykowicz S, Ghosh I, Burns F, Kinloch S, Simoes P, Bhagani S, Kennedy PTF, Maini MK, Bashford-Rogers R, Gill US, Peppa D. HIV/HBV coinfection remodels the immune landscape and natural killer cell ADCC functional responses. Hepatology 2024; 80:649-663. [PMID: 38687604 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS HBV and HIV coinfection is a common occurrence globally, with significant morbidity and mortality. Both viruses lead to immune dysregulation including changes in natural killer (NK) cells, a key component of antiviral defense and a promising target for HBV cure strategies. Here we used high-throughput single-cell analysis to explore the immune cell landscape in people with HBV mono-infection and HIV/HBV coinfection, on antiviral therapy, with emphasis on identifying the distinctive characteristics of NK cell subsets that can be therapeutically harnessed. APPROACH AND RESULTS Our data show striking differences in the transcriptional programs of NK cells. HIV/HBV coinfection was characterized by an over-representation of adaptive, KLRC2 -expressing NK cells, including a higher abundance of a chemokine-enriched ( CCL3/CCL4 ) adaptive cluster. The NK cell remodeling in HIV/HBV coinfection was reflected in enriched activation pathways, including CD3ζ phosphorylation and ZAP-70 translocation that can mediate stronger antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity responses and a bias toward chemokine/cytokine signaling. By contrast, HBV mono-infection imposed a stronger cytotoxic profile on NK cells and a more prominent signature of "exhaustion" with higher circulating levels of HBsAg. Phenotypic alterations in the NK cell pool in coinfection were consistent with increased "adaptiveness" and better capacity for antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity compared to HBV mono-infection. Overall, an adaptive NK cell signature correlated inversely with circulating levels of HBsAg and HBV-RNA in our cohort. CONCLUSIONS This study provides new insights into the differential signature and functional profile of NK cells in HBV and HIV/HBV coinfection, highlighting pathways that can be manipulated to tailor NK cell-focused approaches to advance HBV cure strategies in different patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Sun
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kelly A S da Costa
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Jonida Kokici
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Noshin Hussain
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stefano D'Anna
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Romina Salpini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Stephanie Kucykowicz
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Indrajit Ghosh
- Department of HIV, Mortimer Market Centre, CNWL NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Fiona Burns
- The Ian Charleson Day Centre, Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- UCL Faculty of Population Health Sciences, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sabine Kinloch
- The Ian Charleson Day Centre, Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Pedro Simoes
- The Ian Charleson Day Centre, Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sanjay Bhagani
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
- Department of HIV Medicine, Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Patrick T F Kennedy
- Centre for Immunobiology, Barts Liver Centre, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, QMUL, London, UK
| | - Mala K Maini
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Upkar S Gill
- Centre for Immunobiology, Barts Liver Centre, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, QMUL, London, UK
| | - Dimitra Peppa
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
- Department of HIV, Mortimer Market Centre, CNWL NHS Trust, London, UK
- The Ian Charleson Day Centre, Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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5
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Apisutimaitri K, Saeyup P, Suppipat K, Sirichindakul P, Wanasrisant N, Nonsri C, Lertprapai P. Effects of propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia versus desflurane anesthesia on natural killer cell cytotoxicity after hepatocellular carcinoma resection. J Anaesthesiol Clin Pharmacol 2024; 40:395-402. [PMID: 39391643 PMCID: PMC11463923 DOI: 10.4103/joacp.joacp_174_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Inhalation anesthesia suppresses the immune system and stimulates the growth of tumor cells, contrary to intravenous anesthesia. However, no consensus exists on which anesthetic technique is better for preventing cancer recurrence. Therefore, this study compared the effects of two different anesthetic techniques on natural killer cell cytotoxicity (NKCC) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients undergoing open hepatic resection. Material and Methods Patients diagnosed with nonmetastatic HCC were scheduled for hepatic resection and randomly assigned to receive either propofol- or desflurane-based anesthesia. The primary outcome was pre- and postoperative NKCC assay. Cytokine levels were assessed by measuring interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) levels, and the secondary outcome was postoperative cancer recurrence evaluated using diagnostic imaging scans for 2 years. Results Twenty-eight patients were analyzed, including 15 and 13 in the total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) and inhalation (INH) groups, respectively. Two patients in the INH group were excluded due to non-HCC postoperative pathologic results. At 24 h, the postoperative change in NKCC between both groups showed no significant differences at a ratio of effector cell: target cell = 1:1, 5:1, and 10:1 (P = 0.345, 0.345, and 0.565, respectively). Also, there were no significant differences in IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and IFN-γ levels (P = 0.588, 0.182, 0.730, 0.076, 0.518, 0.533, respectively). Postoperative tumor recurrence occurred in five and six patients in the TIVA and INH groups, respectively. Conclusion NKCC did not differ significantly among HCC patients undergoing open hepatic resection under either propofol or desflurane anesthesia 24 h postoperatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirada Apisutimaitri
- Department of Anesthesiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pipat Saeyup
- Department of Anesthesiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Koramit Suppipat
- Department of Cellular Immunotherapy Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pongserath Sirichindakul
- Department of Surgery, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nattanit Wanasrisant
- Department of Anesthesiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chawisachon Nonsri
- Department of Anesthesiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Panas Lertprapai
- Department of Anesthesiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Seurre C, Roca Suarez AA, Testoni B, Zoulim F, Grigorov B. After the Storm: Persistent Molecular Alterations Following HCV Cure. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7073. [PMID: 39000179 PMCID: PMC11241208 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137073] [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: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) against hepatitis C virus (HCV) has revolutionized the management of this pathology, as their use allows viral elimination in a large majority of patients. Nonetheless, HCV remains a major public health problem due to the multiple challenges associated with its diagnosis, treatment availability and development of a prophylactic vaccine. Moreover, HCV-cured patients still present an increased risk of developing hepatic complications such as hepatocellular carcinoma. In the present review, we aim to summarize the impact that HCV infection has on a wide variety of peripheral and intrahepatic cell populations, the alterations that remain following DAA treatment and the potential molecular mechanisms implicated in their long-term persistence. Finally, we consider how recent developments in single-cell multiomics could refine our understanding of this disease in each specific intrahepatic cell population and drive the field to explore new directions for the development of chemo-preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Seurre
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69434 Lyon, France; (C.S.); (A.A.R.S.); (B.T.); (F.Z.)
- The Lyon Hepatology Institute EVEREST, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Armando Andres Roca Suarez
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69434 Lyon, France; (C.S.); (A.A.R.S.); (B.T.); (F.Z.)
- The Lyon Hepatology Institute EVEREST, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69434 Lyon, France; (C.S.); (A.A.R.S.); (B.T.); (F.Z.)
- The Lyon Hepatology Institute EVEREST, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69434 Lyon, France; (C.S.); (A.A.R.S.); (B.T.); (F.Z.)
- The Lyon Hepatology Institute EVEREST, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69002 Lyon, France
| | - Boyan Grigorov
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69434 Lyon, France; (C.S.); (A.A.R.S.); (B.T.); (F.Z.)
- The Lyon Hepatology Institute EVEREST, 69003 Lyon, France
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Kupke P, Brucker J, Wettengel JM, Protzer U, Wenzel JJ, Schlitt HJ, Geissler EK, Werner JM. Cytokine Response of Natural Killer Cells to Hepatitis B Virus Infection Depends on Monocyte Co-Stimulation. Viruses 2024; 16:741. [PMID: 38793623 PMCID: PMC11125674 DOI: 10.3390/v16050741] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major driver of chronic hepatic inflammation, which regularly leads to liver cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. Immediate innate immune cell response is crucial for the rapid clearance of the infection. Here, natural killer (NK) cells play a pivotal role in direct cytotoxicity and the secretion of antiviral cytokines as well as regulatory function. The aim of this study was to further elucidate NK cell responses triggered by an HBV infection. Therefore, we optimized HBV in vitro models that reliably stimulate NK cells using hepatocyte-like HepG2 cells expressing the Na+-taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) and HepaRG cells. Immune cells were acquired from healthy platelet donors. Initially, HepG2-NTCP cells demonstrated higher viral replication compared to HepaRG cells. Co-cultures with immune cells revealed increased production of interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α by NK cells, which was no longer evident in isolated NK cells. Likewise, the depletion of monocytes and spatial separation from target cells led to the absence of the antiviral cytokine production of NK cells. Eventually, the combined co-culture of isolated NK cells and monocytes led to a sufficient cytokine response of NK cells, which was also apparent when communication between the two immune cell subpopulations was restricted to soluble factors. In summary, our study demonstrates antiviral cytokine production by NK cells in response to HBV+ HepG2-NTCP cells, which is dependent on monocyte bystander activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kupke
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Johanna Brucker
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jochen M. Wettengel
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine and Health/Helmholtz Munich, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Site, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine and Health/Helmholtz Munich, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Site, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Jürgen J. Wenzel
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Hans J. Schlitt
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Edward K. Geissler
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jens M. Werner
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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Beudeker BJB, Osmani Z, van Oord GW, Groothuismink ZMA, de Knegt RJ, Hoogenboezem RM, Bindels EMJ, van de Werken HJG, Boonstra A. Association of HBsAg levels with differential gene expression in NK, CD8 T, and memory B cells in treated patients with chronic HBV. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:100980. [PMID: 38314025 PMCID: PMC10835465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims HBsAg secretion may impact immune responses to chronic HBV infection. Thus, therapeutic approaches to suppress HBsAg production are being investigated. Our study aims to examine the immunomodulatory effects of high and low levels of circulating HBsAg and thereby improve our understanding of anti-HBV immunity. Methods An optimized 10x Genomics single-cell RNA sequencing workflow was applied to blood samples and liver fine-needle aspirates from 18 patients undergoing tenofovir/entecavir (NUC) treatment for chronic HBV infection. They were categorized based on their HBsAg levels: high (920-12,447 IU/ml) or low (1-100 IU/ml). Cluster frequencies, differential gene expression, and phenotypes were analyzed. Results In the blood of HBV-infected patients on NUC, the proportion of KLRC2+ "adaptive" natural killer (NK) cells was significantly lower in the HBsAg-high group and, remarkably, both KLRC2+ NK and KLRG1+ CD8 T cells display enrichment of lymphocyte activation-associated gene sets in the HBsAg-low group. High levels of HBsAg were associated with mild immune activation in the liver. However, no suppression of liver-resident CXCR6+ NCAM1+ NK or CXCR6+ CD69+ CD8 T cells was detected, while memory B cells showed signs of activation in both the blood and liver. Conclusions Among NUC-treated patients, we observed a minimal impact of HBsAg on leukocyte populations in the blood and liver. However, for the first time, we found that HBsAg has distinct effects, restricted to NK-, CD8 T-, and memory B-cell subsets, in the blood and liver. Our findings are highly relevant for current clinical studies evaluating treatment strategies aimed at suppressing HBsAg production and reinvigorating immunity to HBV. Impact and implications This study provides unique insight into the impact of HBsAg on gene expression levels of immune cell subsets in the blood and liver, particularly in the context of NUC-treated chronic HBV infection. It holds significant relevance for current and future clinical studies evaluating treatment strategies aimed at suppressing HBsAg production and reinvigorating immunity to HBV. Our findings raise questions about the effectiveness of such treatment strategies and challenge the previously hypothesized immunomodulatory effects of HBsAg on immune responses against HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris J B Beudeker
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Zgjim Osmani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gertine W van Oord
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Zwier M A Groothuismink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert J de Knegt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Remco M Hoogenboezem
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eric M J Bindels
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Andre Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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9
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Wang Z, Liu N, Yang Y, Tu Z. The novel mechanism facilitating chronic hepatitis B infection: immunometabolism and epigenetic modification reprogramming. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1349867. [PMID: 38288308 PMCID: PMC10822934 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1349867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infections pose a global public health challenge. Despite extensive research on this disease, the intricate mechanisms underlying persistent HBV infection require further in-depth elucidation. Recent studies have revealed the pivotal roles of immunometabolism and epigenetic reprogramming in chronic HBV infection. Immunometabolism have identified as the process, which link cell metabolic status with innate immunity functions in response to HBV infection, ultimately contributing to the immune system's inability to resolve Chronic Hepatitis B (CHB). Within hepatocytes, HBV replication leads to a stable viral covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) minichromosome located in the nucleus, and epigenetic modifications in cccDNA enable persistence of infection. Additionally, the accumulation or depletion of metabolites not only directly affects the function and homeostasis of immune cells but also serves as a substrate for regulating epigenetic modifications, subsequently influencing the expression of antiviral immune genes and facilitating the occurrence of sustained HBV infection. The interaction between immunometabolism and epigenetic modifications has led to a new research field, known as metabolic epigenomics, which may form a mutually reinforcing relationship with CHB. Herein, we review the recent studies on immunometabolism and epigenetic reprogramming in CHB infection and discuss the potential mechanisms of persistent HBV infection. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms will offer novel insights and targets for intervention strategies against chronic HBV infection, thereby providing new hope for the treatment of related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengmin Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Nan Liu
- Institute of Epigenetic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhengkun Tu
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Institute of Liver Diseases, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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10
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Nguyen T, Chen PC, Pham J, Kaur K, Raman SS, Jewett A, Chiang J. Current and Future States of Natural Killer Cell-Based Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Crit Rev Immunol 2024; 44:71-85. [PMID: 38618730 DOI: 10.1615/critrevimmunol.2024052486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells that exhibit high levels of cytotoxicity against NK-specific targets. NK cells also produce various cytokines, and interact with T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells to effectively serve as frontliners of the innate immune system. Produce various cytokines, and interact with T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells to effectively serve as frontliners of the innate immune system. Moreover, NK cells constitute the second most common immune cell in the liver. These properties have drawn significant attention towards leveraging NK cells in treating liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which accounts for 75% of all primary liver cancer and is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Notable anti-cancer functions of NK cells against HCC include activating antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC), facilitating Gasdermin E-mediated pyroptosis of HCC cells, and initiating an antitumor response via the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. In this review, we describe how these mechanisms work in the context of HCC. We will then discuss the existing preclinical and clinical studies that leverage NK cell activity to create single and combined immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tu Nguyen
- UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Po-Chun Chen
- Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, University of California School of Dentistry, 10833 Le Conte Ave, 90095 Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Janet Pham
- Department of Radiology, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kawaljit Kaur
- Division of Oral Biology and Medicine The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center of Reconstructive Biotechnology University of California School of Dentistry Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steven S Raman
- Department of Radiology, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA School of Dentistry and Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anahid Jewett
- Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, University of California School of Dentistry, 10833 Le Conte Ave, 90095 Los Angeles, CA, USA; The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA School of Dentistry and Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jason Chiang
- Department of Radiology, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA School of Dentistry and Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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11
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Mondelli MU, Ottolini S, Oliviero B, Mantovani S, Cerino A, Mele D, Varchetta S. Hepatitis C Virus and the Host: A Mutual Endurance Leaving Indelible Scars in the Host's Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:268. [PMID: 38203436 PMCID: PMC10779088 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010268] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has spread worldwide, and it is responsible for potentially severe chronic liver disease and primary liver cancer. Chronic infection remains for life if not spontaneously eliminated and viral persistence profoundly impairs the efficiency of the host's immunity. Attempts have been made to develop an effective vaccine, but efficacy trials have met with failure. The availability of highly efficacious direct-acting antivirals (DAA) has created hope for the progressive elimination of chronic HCV infections; however, this approach requires a monumental global effort. HCV elicits a prompt innate immune response in the host, characterized by a robust production of interferon-α (IFN-α), although interference in IFN-α signaling by HCV proteins may curb this effect. The late appearance of largely ineffective neutralizing antibodies and the progressive exhaustion of T cells, particularly CD8 T cells, result in the inability to eradicate the virus in most infected patients. Moreover, an HCV cure resulting from DAA treatment does not completely restore the normal immunologic homeostasis. Here, we discuss the main immunological features of immune responses to HCV and the epigenetic scars that chronic viral persistence leaves behind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario U. Mondelli
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.O.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.); (S.V.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Sabrina Ottolini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Barbara Oliviero
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.O.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.); (S.V.)
| | - Stefania Mantovani
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.O.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.); (S.V.)
| | - Antonella Cerino
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.O.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.); (S.V.)
| | - Dalila Mele
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.O.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.); (S.V.)
| | - Stefania Varchetta
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.O.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.); (S.V.)
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12
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Milosevic I, Todorovic N, Filipovic A, Simic J, Markovic M, Stevanovic O, Malinic J, Katanic N, Mitrovic N, Nikolic N. HCV and HCC Tango-Deciphering the Intricate Dance of Disease: A Review Article. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16048. [PMID: 38003240 PMCID: PMC10671156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounting for around one-third of all HCC cases. Prolonged inflammation in chronic hepatitis C (CHC), maintained through a variety of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators, is one of the aspects of carcinogenesis, followed by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Immune response dysfunction including the innate and adaptive immunity also plays a role in the development, as well as in the recurrence of HCC after treatment. Some of the tumor suppressor genes inhibited by the HCV proteins are p53, p73, and retinoblastoma 1. Mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter and the oncogene catenin beta 1 are two more important carcinogenic signaling pathways in HCC associated with HCV. Furthermore, in HCV-related HCC, numerous tumor suppressor and seven oncogenic genes are dysregulated by epigenetic changes. Epigenetic regulation of gene expression is considered as a lasting "epigenetic memory", suggesting that HCV-induced changes persist and are associated with liver carcinogenesis even after cure. Epigenetic changes and immune response dysfunction are recognized targets for potential therapy of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Milosevic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Nevena Todorovic
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Ana Filipovic
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Jelena Simic
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Marko Markovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Olja Stevanovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Jovan Malinic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Natasa Katanic
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Pristina Situated in Kosovska Mitrovica, 28000 Kosovska Mitrovica, Serbia
| | - Nikola Mitrovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Natasa Nikolic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department for Infectious Diseases, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.M.); (M.M.); (O.S.); (J.M.); (N.M.)
- University Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.T.); (A.F.); (J.S.); (N.K.)
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13
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Bi W, Kraft A, Engelskircher S, Mischke J, Witte M, Klawonn F, van Ham M, Cornberg M, Wedemeyer H, Hengst J, Jänsch L. Proteomics reveals a global phenotypic shift of NK cells in HCV patients treated with direct-acting antivirals. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250291. [PMID: 37515498 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250291] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections compromise natural killer (NK)-cell immunity. Direct-acting antivirals (DAA) effectively eliminate HCV, but the long-term effects on NK cells in cured patients are debated. We conducted a proteomic study on CD56+ NK cells of chronic HCV-infected patients before and 1 year after DAA therapy. Donor-variation was observed in NK-cell proteomes of HCV-infected patients, with 46 dysregulated proteins restored after DAA therapy. However, 30% of the CD56+ NK-cell proteome remained altered 1 year post-therapy, indicating a phenotypic shift with low donor-variation. NK cells from virus-negative cured patients exhibited global regulation of RNA-processing and pathways related to "stimuli response", "chemokine signaling", and "cytotoxicity regulation". Proteomics identified downregulation of vesicle transport components (CD107a, COPI/II complexes) and altered receptor expression profiles, indicating an inhibited NK-cell phenotype. Yet, activated NK cells from HCV patients before and after therapy effectively upregulated IFN-γ and recruited CD107a. Conversely, reduced surface expression levels of Tim-3 and 2B4 were observed before and after therapy. In conclusion, this study reveals long-term effects on the CD56+ NK-cell compartment in convalescent HCV patients 1 year after therapy, with limited abundance of vesicle transport complexes and surface receptors, associated with a responsive NK-cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Bi
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province & Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, P. R. China
- Cellular Proteome Research Group, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Anke Kraft
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
- TWINCORE, A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
| | - Sophie Engelskircher
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
| | - Jasmin Mischke
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
- TWINCORE, A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
| | - Moana Witte
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
| | - Frank Klawonn
- Cellular Proteome Research Group, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, Ostfalia University, Wolfenbüttel, Germany
| | - Marco van Ham
- Cellular Proteome Research Group, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
- TWINCORE, A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), A Joint Venture Between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Resolving Infection Susceptibility (RESIST; EXC 2155), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Julia Hengst
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
| | - Lothar Jänsch
- Cellular Proteome Research Group, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
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14
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Basílio-Queirós D, Mischak-Weissinger E. Natural killer cells- from innate cells to the discovery of adaptability. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1172437. [PMID: 37275911 PMCID: PMC10232812 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1172437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells have come a long way since their first description in the 1970's. The most recent reports of their adaptive-like behavior changed the way the immune system dichotomy is described. Adaptive NK cells present characteristics of both the innate and adaptive immune system. This NK cell subpopulation undergoes a clonal-like expansion in response to an antigen and secondary encounters with the same antigen result in an increased cytotoxic response. These characteristics can be of extreme importance in the clinical setting, especially as adoptive immunotherapies, since NK cells present several advantages compared other cell types. This review will focus on the discovery and the path to the current knowledge of the adaptive NK cell population.
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15
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Siemaszko J, Marzec-Przyszlak A, Bogunia-Kubik K. Activating NKG2C Receptor: Functional Characteristics and Current Strategies in Clinical Applications. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2023; 71:9. [PMID: 36899273 PMCID: PMC10004456 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-023-00674-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
The interest in NK cells and their cytotoxic activity against tumour, infected or transformed cells continuously increases as they become a new efficient and off-the-shelf agents in immunotherapies. Their actions are balanced by a wide set of activating and inhibitory receptors, recognizing their complementary ligands on target cells. One of the most studied receptors is the activating CD94/NKG2C molecule, which is a member of the C-type lectin-like family. This review is intended to summarise latest research findings on the clinical relevance of NKG2C receptor and to examine its contribution to current and potential therapeutic strategies. It outlines functional characteristics and molecular features of CD94/NKG2C, its interactions with HLA-E molecule and presented antigens, pointing out a key role of this receptor in immunosurveillance, especially in the human cytomegalovirus infection. Additionally, the authors attempt to shed some light on receptor's unique interaction with its ligand which is shared with another receptor (CD94/NKG2A) with rather opposite properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jagoda Siemaszko
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Marzec-Przyszlak
- Department of Biosensors and Processing of Biomedical Signals, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Katarzyna Bogunia-Kubik
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland.
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16
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Kang G, Zhao X, Sun J, Cheng C, Wang C, Tao L, Zong L, Yin W, Cong J, Li J, Wang X. A2AR limits IL-15-induced generation of CD39 + NK cells with high cytotoxicity. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 114:109567. [PMID: 36529024 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
CD39-mediated inhibition of natural killer (NK) cell activity has been demonstrated, but the characteristics of CD39+ NK cells in humans are not known. We investigated the characteristics of human circulating CD39+ NK cells. In healthy donors, the proportion of circulating CD39+ NK cells in total NK cells was relatively low compared with that of CD39- NK cells. Nonetheless, a higher proportion of CD39+ NK cells expressed CD107a. Similarly, a higher proportion of CD39+ NK cells expressed CD107a in patients with hepatitis B virus or patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Stimulation with NK-sensitive K562 cells or interleukin (IL)-12/IL-18 activated CD39+ NK cells to express higher levels of CD107a, IFN-γ and TNF-α, relative to CD39- NK cells. Importantly, IL-15 induced the generation of CD39+ NK cells. In contrast, A2A adenosine receptor (A2AR) ligation suppressed the generation of CD39+ NK cells by inhibiting IL-15 signaling. These data for the first time demonstrated that A2AR counteracts IL-15-induced generation of human CD39+ NK cells, which have a stronger cytotoxicity than CD39- NK cells. IL-15-induced human CD39+ NK cells might be better choice for immunotherapy based on adoptive transfer of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guijie Kang
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xueqin Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jiafeng Sun
- Dental Department, Health Service Center, Jianghai Community, Guangyi Street, Liangxi District, Wuxi 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chen Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Cen Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Longxiang Tao
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Lu Zong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Wenwei Yin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingjing Cong
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Jing Li
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Xuefu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
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17
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Jin X, Bi J. Prospects for NK-based immunotherapy of chronic HBV infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1084109. [PMID: 36591230 PMCID: PMC9797727 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1084109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective and long-term treatment is required for controlling chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection. Natural killer (NK) cells are antiviral innate lymphocytes and represent an essential arm of current immunotherapy. In chronic HBV (CHB), NK cells display altered changes in phenotypes and functions, but preserve antiviral activity, especially for cytolytic activity. On the other hand, NK cells might also cause liver injury in the disease. NK -based immunotherapy, including adoptive NK cell therapy and NK -based checkpoint inhibition, could potentially exploit the antiviral aspect of NK cells for controlling CHB infection while preventing liver tissue damage. Here, we review recent progress in NK cell biology under the context of CHB infection, and discuss potential NK -based immunotherapy strategies for the disease.
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18
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The Tumor Microenvironment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Untying an Intricate Immunological Network. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246151. [PMID: 36551635 PMCID: PMC9776867 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
HCC, the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, is prototypically an inflammation-driven cancer developing after years of inflammatory insults. Consequently, the hepatic microenvironment is a site of complex immunological activities. Moreover, the tolerogenic nature of the liver can act as a barrier to anti-tumor immunity, fostering cancer progression and resistance to immunotherapies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICB). In addition to being a site of primary carcinogenesis, many cancer types have high tropism for the liver, and patients diagnosed with liver metastasis have a dismal prognosis. Therefore, understanding the immunological networks characterizing the tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC will deepen our understanding of liver immunity, and it will underpin the dominant mechanisms controlling both spontaneous and therapy-induced anti-tumor immune responses. Herein, we discuss the contributions of the cellular and molecular components of the liver immune contexture during HCC onset and progression by underscoring how the balance between antagonistic immune responses can recast the properties of the TME and the response to ICB.
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19
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Han HT, Jin WL, Li X. Mesenchymal stem cells-based therapy in liver diseases. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:23. [PMID: 35895169 PMCID: PMC9326420 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00088-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple immune cells and their products in the liver together form a complex and unique immune microenvironment, and preclinical models have demonstrated the importance of imbalances in the hepatic immune microenvironment in liver inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases. Various immunotherapies have been attempted to modulate the hepatic immune microenvironment for the purpose of treating liver diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a comprehensive and plastic immunomodulatory capacity. On the one hand, they have been tried for the treatment of inflammatory liver diseases because of their excellent immunosuppressive capacity; On the other hand, MSCs have immune-enhancing properties in immunocompromised settings and can be modified into cellular carriers for targeted transport of immune enhancers by genetic modification, physical and chemical loading, and thus they are also used in the treatment of immunocompromised liver diseases such as chronic viral infections and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we discuss the immunological basis and recent strategies of MSCs for the treatment of the aforementioned liver diseases. Specifically, we update the immune microenvironment of the liver and summarize the distinct mechanisms of immune microenvironment imbalance in inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases, and how MSCs can fully exploit their immunotherapeutic role in liver diseases with both immune imbalance patterns.
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20
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Xie X, Karakoese Z, Ablikim D, Ickler J, Schuhenn J, Zeng X, Feng X, Yang X, Dittmer U, Yang D, Sutter K, Liu J. IFNα subtype-specific susceptibility of HBV in the course of chronic infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1017753. [PMID: 36311794 PMCID: PMC9616162 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1017753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection continues to be a major health problem worldwide and remains hard to be cured. Therapy with interferon (IFN) α is an important method for the clinical treatment of chronic hepatitis B. IFNα exhibits direct antiviral effects as well as immunomodulatory activities, which can induce sustained antiviral responses in part of the treated chronic hepatitis B patients. Numerous IFNα subtypes with high sequence identity between 76-96% exist which are characterized by diverse, non-redundant biological activities. Our previous studies have demonstrated that the clinically approved IFNα2 is not the most effective subtype for the anti-HBV treatment among all IFNα subtypes. So far very little is known about the IFNα subtype expression pattern during early HBV infection and the IFNα subtype-specific susceptibility during persistent HBV infection as well as its related cellular mechanism. Here we determined the Ifna subtype mRNA expression during acute and chronic HBV infection by using the well-established hydrodynamic injection (HDI) mouse model and we revealed a transient but strong expression of a panel of Ifna subtypes in the spleen of HBV persistent replication mice compared to HDI controls. Immunotherapy with distinct IFNα subtypes controlled chronic HBV infection. IFNα subtype-mediated antiviral response and immune activation were comprehensively analyzed in an AAV-HBV persistent infection murine model and murine IFNα2 was identified as the most effective subtype in suppression of HBV replication. Further analysis of the immune response revealed a strong immunomodulatory activity of murine IFNα2 on splenic and intrahepatic NK and T cell activation during persistent HBV infection. Taken together, our data provide IFNα subtype-specific differences in the antiviral and immunomodulatory effector responses and a strong expression of all IFNα subtypes in the spleen during persistent HBV infection in mice. This knowledge will support the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for chronic hepatitis B infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhangzhou Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Zhangzhou, China
| | - Zehra Karakoese
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Dilhumare Ablikim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Julia Ickler
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jonas Schuhenn
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Xiaoqing Zeng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuemei Feng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuecheng Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ulf Dittmer
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Joint International Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dongliang Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Joint International Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kathrin Sutter
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital of Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Joint International Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Kathrin Sutter, ; Jia Liu,
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Joint International Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Kathrin Sutter, ; Jia Liu,
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21
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Restricted Recruitment of NK Cells with Impaired Function Is Caused by HPV-Driven Immunosuppressive Microenvironment of Papillomas in Aggressive Juvenile-Onset Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis Patients. J Virol 2022; 96:e0094622. [PMID: 36154611 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00946-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Laryngopharynx epithelium neoplasia induced by HPV6/11 infection in juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (JO-RRP) causes a great health issue characteristic of frequent relapse and aggressive disease progression. Local cell-mediated immunity shaped by the recruitment and activation of cytotoxic effector cells is critical for viral clearance. In this study, we found that NK cells in the papillomas of aggressive JO-RRP patients, in contrast to massive infiltrated T cells, were scarce in number and impaired in activation and cytotoxicity as they were in peripheral blood. Data from cell infiltration analysis indicated that the migration of NK cell to papilloma was restricted in aggressive JO-RRP patients. Further study showed that the skewed chemokine expression in the papillomas and elevated ICAM-1 expression in hyperplastic epithelia cells favored the T cell but not NK cell recruitment in aggressive JO-RRP patients. In parallel to the increased CD3+ T cells, we observed a dramatical increase in Tregs and Treg-promoting cytokines such as IL-4, IL-10 and TGFβ in papillomas of aggressive JO-RRP patients. Our study suggested that likely initialized by the intrinsic change in neoplastic epithelial cells with persistent HPV infection, the aggressive papillomas built an entry barrier for NK cell infiltration and formed an immunosuppressive clump to fend off the immune attack from intra-papillomas NK cells. IMPORTANCE Frequent relapse and aggressive disease progression of juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (JO-RRP) pose a great challenge to the complete remission of HPV 6/11 related laryngeal neoplasia. Local immune responses in papillomas are more relevant to the disease control considering the locale infected restriction of HPV virus in epitheliums. In our study, the restricted NK cell number and reduced expression of activating NKp30 receptor suggested one possible mechanism underlying impaired NK cell defense ability in aggressive JO-RRP papillomas. Meanwhile, the negative impact of HPV persistent infection on NK cell number and function represented yet another example of a chronic pathogen subverting NK cell behavior, affirming a potentially important role for NK cells in viral containment. Further, the skewed chemokine/cytokine expression in the papillomas and the elevated adhesion molecules expression in hyperplastic epithelia cells provided important clues for understanding blocked infiltration and antiviral dysfunction of NK cells in papilloma.
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22
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Lewis JH, Khaldoyanidi SK, Britten CD, Wei AH, Subklewe M. Clinical Significance of Transient Asymptomatic Elevations in Aminotransferase (TAEAT) in Oncology. Am J Clin Oncol 2022; 45:352-365. [PMID: 35848749 PMCID: PMC9311471 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Monitoring for liver injury remains an important aspect of drug safety assessment, including for oncotherapeutics. When present, drug-induced liver injury may limit the use or result in the discontinuation of these agents. Drug-induced liver injury can exhibit with a wide spectrum of clinical and biochemical manifestations, ranging from transient asymptomatic elevations in aminotransferases (TAEAT) to acute liver failure. Numerous oncotherapeutics have been associated with TAEAT, with published reports indicating a phenomenon in which patients may be asymptomatic without overt liver injury despite the presence of grade ≥3 aminotransferase elevations. In this review, we discuss the occurrence of TAEAT in the context of oncology clinical trials and clinical practice, as well as the clinical relevance of this phenomenon as an adverse event in response to oncotherapeutics and the related cellular and molecular mechanisms that may underlie its occurrence. We also identify several gaps in knowledge relevant to the diagnosis and the management of TAEAT in patients receiving oncotherapeutics, and identify areas warranting further study to enable the future development of consensus guidelines to support clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andrew H. Wei
- The Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marion Subklewe
- University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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23
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Hammad R, Eldosoky MA, Mosaad AM, El-Nasser AM, Kotb FM, Elshennawy SI, Eldesoky NAR, Selim MA, Naguib GG, Ahmed OA, Alboraie M, Aglan RB. Natural Killer Group 2D Receptor and B1a Cells Crosstalk in Post-Hepatitis C Virus Infection Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Cirrhosis. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2022; 9:609-619. [PMID: 35879974 PMCID: PMC9307915 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s360886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Natural killer (NK) and B1a cells are implicated in innate immune surveillance against chronic hepatitis C virus (CHCV). NK group 2D (NKG2D) receptor is important for B cell differentiation. This study was designed to assess whether B1a cells and NK Cells expressing NKG2D are implicated in post-hepatitis C infection hepatocellular carcinoma (post-HCV HCC) and cirrhosis using flow cytometry and investigate the association between NK-expressing NKG2D and B1a in complications of CHCV infection. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 111 participants were included and divided into the post-HCV HCC (n = 50), post-HCV liver cirrhosis (n = 31), and CHCV (n = 30) groups. Results The percentage of B1a cells (B1a%) and the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of NKG2D (NKG2D MFI) showed a significant increase in the CHCV group compared with those in the post-HCV liver cirrhosis and post-HCV HCC groups (P < 0.05). A positive correlation was observed between NKG2D MFI and B1a% (r = 0.6, P < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve revealed that NKG2D MFI and B1a% differentiated between patients with CHCV infection and those with HCC with a sensitivity of 92% and 98%, respectively, and differentiated between patients with CHCV infection and those with liver cirrhosis with a sensitivity of 94% and 90%, respectively. Conclusion Downregulation of B1a frequency and NKG2D intensity is implicated in the progression of CHCV infection to cirrhosis and HCC. NKG2D receptor is associated with the frequency of circulating B1a cells. NKG2D intensity and B1a% can be used as indicators of CHCV progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham Hammad
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona A Eldosoky
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alshaimaa M Mosaad
- Hepatogastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Department, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asmaa M El-Nasser
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Fatma M Kotb
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Salwa I Elshennawy
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha Abdel-Rahman Eldesoky
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Selim
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science (for Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Gina G Naguib
- Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ossama A Ahmed
- Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Alboraie
- Department of internal medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Reda Badr Aglan
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, National Liver Institute Menoufia university, Menoufia, Egypt
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24
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Wei Y, Bingyu W, Lei Y, Xingxing Y. The antifibrotic role of natural killer cells in liver fibrosis. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2022; 247:1235-1243. [PMID: 35475367 PMCID: PMC9379607 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221092672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the common pathological change of chronic liver diseases characterized by increased deposition of extracellular matrix and reduced matrix degradation. In response to liver injury caused by a variety of pathogenic agents, such as virus and alcohol, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are differentiated into myofibroblast-like cells and produce excessive collagens, thus resulting in fibrogenesis. Natural killer (NK) cells are the essential innate immune cells in the liver and generally control fibrosis by killing activated HSCs. This review briefly describes the fibrogenesis process and the phenotypic features of hepatic NK cells. Besides, it focuses on the antifibrotic mechanisms of NK cells and explores the potential of activating NK cells as a therapeutic strategy for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wei
- Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Wang Bingyu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yang Lei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yuan Xingxing
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China,Yuan Xingxing.
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25
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Guo F, Yuan Y, Chen Z, Gao F, Li X, Wang H, Wang X, Bai G. Downregulation of the long non-coding RNA MALAT1 in tenofovir-treated pregnant women with hepatitis B virus infection promotes immune recovery of natural killer cells via the has-miR-155-5p/HIF-1α axis. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 107:108701. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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26
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Bernard NF, Kant S, Kiani Z, Tremblay C, Dupuy FP. Natural Killer Cells in Antibody Independent and Antibody Dependent HIV Control. Front Immunol 2022; 13:879124. [PMID: 35720328 PMCID: PMC9205404 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.879124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), when left untreated, typically leads to disease progression towards acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Some people living with HIV (PLWH) control their virus to levels below the limit of detection of standard viral load assays, without treatment. As such, they represent examples of a functional HIV cure. These individuals, called Elite Controllers (ECs), are rare, making up <1% of PLWH. Genome wide association studies mapped genes in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I region as important in HIV control. ECs have potent virus specific CD8+ T cell responses often restricted by protective MHC class I antigens. Natural Killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells whose activation state depends on the integration of activating and inhibitory signals arising from cell surface receptors interacting with their ligands on neighboring cells. Inhibitory NK cell receptors also use a subset of MHC class I antigens as ligands. This interaction educates NK cells, priming them to respond to HIV infected cell with reduced MHC class I antigen expression levels. NK cells can also be activated through the crosslinking of the activating NK cell receptor, CD16, which binds the fragment crystallizable portion of immunoglobulin G. This mode of activation confers NK cells with specificity to HIV infected cells when the antigen binding portion of CD16 bound immunoglobulin G recognizes HIV Envelope on infected cells. Here, we review the role of NK cells in antibody independent and antibody dependent HIV control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole F. Bernard
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Infectious Diseases, Immunology and Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Clinical Immunology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Nicole F. Bernard,
| | - Sanket Kant
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Infectious Diseases, Immunology and Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Zahra Kiani
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Infectious Diseases, Immunology and Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Cécile Tremblay
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology Infectiology and Immunology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Franck P. Dupuy
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Infectious Diseases, Immunology and Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
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27
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Sajid M, Liu L, Sun C. The Dynamic Role of NK Cells in Liver Cancers: Role in HCC and HBV Associated HCC and Its Therapeutic Implications. Front Immunol 2022; 13:887186. [PMID: 35669776 PMCID: PMC9165341 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.887186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains an important complication of chronic liver disease, especially when cirrhosis occurs. Existing treatment strategies include surgery, loco-regional techniques, and chemotherapy. Natural killer cells are distinctive cytotoxic lymphocytes that play a vital role in fighting tumors and infections. As an important constituent of the innate immune system against cancer, phenotypic and functional deviations of NK cells have been demonstrated in HCC patients who also exhibit perturbation of the NK-activating receptor/ligand axis. The rate of recurrence of tumor-infiltrating and circulating NK cells are positively associated with survival benefits in HCC and have prognostic significance, suggesting that NK cell dysfunction is closely related to HCC progression. NK cells are the first-line effector cells of viral hepatitis and play a significant role by directly clearing virus-infected cells or by activating antigen-specific T cells by producing IFN-γ. In addition, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineered NK cells suggest an exclusive opportunity to produce CAR-NKs with several specificities with fewer side effects. In the present review, we comprehensively discuss the innate immune landscape of the liver, particularly NK cells, and the impact of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) on the function of NK cells and the biological function of HCC. Furthermore, the role of NK cells in HCC and HBV-induced HCC has also been comprehensively elaborated. We also elaborate on available NK cell-based immunotherapeutic approaches in HCC treatment and summarize current advancements in the treatment of HCC. This review will facilitate researchers to understand the importance of the innate immune landscape of NK cells and lead to devising innovative immunotherapeutic strategies for the systematic treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sajid
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Heifei, China
- Transplant and Immunology Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Lianxin Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Heifei, China
| | - Cheng Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Heifei, China
- Transplant and Immunology Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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28
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Assessment of NKG2C copy number variation in HIV-1 infection susceptibility, and considerations about the potential role of lacking receptors and virus infection. J Hum Genet 2022; 67:475-479. [PMID: 35314764 PMCID: PMC8938163 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-022-01029-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection dynamics is strongly influenced by the host genetic background. NKG2C is an activating receptor expressed mainly on Natural Killer (NK) cells, and a polymorphism of copy number variation in the gene coding for this molecule has been pointed as a potential factor involved in HIV infection susceptibility. We evaluated the impact of the NKG2C deletion on HIV-1 susceptibility, with or without HBV/HCV co-infection, in a total of 780 individuals, including 385 HIV-infected patients and 395 healthy blood donors. NKG2C deletion genotyping was performed by standard PCR. To our knowledge, this is the first study to access the impact of complete NKG2C deletion among HIV-infected Brazilian individuals. The frequency of NKG2C deletion (range: 19–22%) was similar in cases and controls. No association of NKG2C deletion with HIV-1 susceptibility or influence on clinical features, HBV or HCV co-infection was observed in the evaluated population. Our findings suggest that NKG2C deletion, and the consequent absence of this receptor expression, does not directly impact HIV susceptibility, HBV/HCV-co-infection in the studied population, suggesting that other signaling pathways might be triggered and perform similar functions in cell activity in the absence of this specific receptor, preventing the development of disadvantageous phenotypes. Larger cohorts and studies involving protein expression are necessary to confirm our findings.
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29
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Wang J, Hou H, Mao L, Wang F, Yu J, Luo Y, Lin Q, Sun Z. TIGIT Signaling Pathway Regulates Natural Killer Cell Function in Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:816474. [PMID: 35265633 PMCID: PMC8898961 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.816474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective Persistent infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and liver damage in immune active chronic hepatitis B (CHB) could be partly due to the overreaction of natural killer (NK) cells, including pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion and cytotoxicity. An immunosuppressive receptor, T-cell immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine–based inhibitory motif (ITIM) domain (TIGIT) is specifically expressed in NK cells. This study aims to investigate the role of the TIGIT signaling pathway in regulating NK cell functions in patients with CHB. Method We comparatively assessed the expression of TIGIT in NK cells of patients with immune active CHB (CHB-IA), carriers of immune control chronic HBV (CHB-IC), and healthy controls (HCs), and then explored mechanisms of the TIGIT signaling pathway in regulating NK cell-mediated liver injury by different molecular assessments. Result The expression of TIGIT in NK cells was enhanced in CHB-IC but was reduced in CHB-IA compared with the HC group. In patients with CHB-IA, the expression of TIGIT was inversely correlated with intensity of the liver damage. Moreover, TIGIT-NK cells show higher IFN-γ secretion capability, degranulation activity, and cytotoxicity but lower apoptosis than TIGIT+ NK cells. Blockade of the TIGIT pathway with anti-TIGIT antibody increased NK cell function, while activation of the TIGIT pathway with TIGIT Fc and CD155 Fc chimera protein down-regulated NK cell function. Conclusion Our data showed that the TIGIT signaling pathway participates in NK cell impairment, which could be used as a new therapeutic target to protect patients with chronic HBV infection from severe liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongyan Hou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lie Mao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Luo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qun Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ziyong Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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30
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Murphy JM, Ngai L, Mortha A, Crome SQ. Tissue-Dependent Adaptations and Functions of Innate Lymphoid Cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:836999. [PMID: 35359972 PMCID: PMC8960279 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.836999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue-resident immune cells reside in distinct niches across organs, where they contribute to tissue homeostasis and rapidly respond to perturbations in the local microenvironment. Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a family of innate immune cells that regulate immune and tissue homeostasis. Across anatomical locations throughout the body, ILCs adopt tissue-specific fates, differing from circulating ILC populations. Adaptations of ILCs to microenvironmental changes have been documented in several inflammatory contexts, including obesity, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. While our understanding of ILC functions within tissues have predominantly been based on mouse studies, development of advanced single cell platforms to study tissue-resident ILCs in humans and emerging patient-based data is providing new insights into this lymphocyte family. Within this review, we discuss current concepts of ILC fate and function, exploring tissue-specific functions of ILCs and their contribution to health and disease across organ systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia M. Murphy
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Louis Ngai
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Arthur Mortha
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Q. Crome
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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31
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Zaki MYW, Fathi AM, Samir S, Eldafashi N, William KY, Nazmy MH, Fathy M, Gill US, Shetty S. Innate and Adaptive Immunopathogeneses in Viral Hepatitis; Crucial Determinants of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1255. [PMID: 35267563 PMCID: PMC8909759 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) infections remain the most common risk factors for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and their heterogeneous distribution influences the global prevalence of this common type of liver cancer. Typical hepatitis infection elicits various immune responses within the liver microenvironment, and viral persistence induces chronic liver inflammation and carcinogenesis. HBV is directly mutagenic but can also cause low-grade liver inflammation characterized by episodes of intermittent high-grade liver inflammation, liver fibrosis, and cirrhosis, which can progress to decompensated liver disease and HCC. Equally, the absence of key innate and adaptive immune responses in chronic HCV infection dampens viral eradication and induces an exhausted and immunosuppressive liver niche that favors HCC development and progression. The objectives of this review are to (i) discuss the epidemiological pattern of HBV and HCV infections, (ii) understand the host immune response to acute and chronic viral hepatitis, and (iii) explore the link between this diseased immune environment and the development and progression of HCC in preclinical models and HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Y. W. Zaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
- National Institute for Health Research Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit and Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ahmed M. Fathi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Samara Samir
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sohag University, Sohag 82524, Egypt;
| | - Nardeen Eldafashi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Kerolis Y. William
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 12613, Egypt;
| | - Maiiada Hassan Nazmy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Moustafa Fathy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Upkar S. Gill
- Barts Liver Centre, Centre for Immunobiology, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK;
| | - Shishir Shetty
- National Institute for Health Research Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit and Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Fumagalli V, Venzin V, Di Lucia P, Moalli F, Ficht X, Ambrosi G, Giustini L, Andreata F, Grillo M, Magini D, Ravà M, Friedrich C, Fontenot JD, Bousso P, Gilmore SA, Khan S, Baca M, Vivier E, Gasteiger G, Kuka M, Guidotti LG, Iannacone M. Group 1 ILCs regulate T cell-mediated liver immunopathology by controlling local IL-2 availability. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eabi6112. [PMID: 35213210 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abi6112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Group 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), which comprise both natural killer (NK) cells and ILC1s, are important innate effectors that can also positively and negatively influence adaptive immune responses. The latter function is generally ascribed to the ability of NK cells to recognize and kill activated T cells. Here, we used multiphoton intravital microscopy in mouse models of hepatitis B to study the intrahepatic behavior of group 1 ILCs and their cross-talk with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-specific CD8+ T cells. We found that hepatocellular antigen recognition by effector CD8+ T cells triggered a prominent increase in the number of hepatic NK cells and ILC1s. Group 1 ILCs colocalized and engaged in prolonged interactions with effector CD8+ T cells undergoing hepatocellular antigen recognition; however, they did not induce T cell apoptosis. Rather, group 1 ILCs constrained CD8+ T cell proliferation by controlling local interleukin-2 (IL-2) availability. Accordingly, group 1 ILC depletion, or genetic removal of their IL-2 receptor a chain, considerably increased the number of intrahepatic HBV-specific effector CD8+ T cells and the attendant immunopathology. Together, these results reveal a role for group 1 ILCs in controlling T cell-mediated liver immunopathology by limiting local IL-2 concentration and have implications for the treatment of chronic HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Fumagalli
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Venzin
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Di Lucia
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Moalli
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.,Experimental Imaging Centre, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Xenia Ficht
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Gioia Ambrosi
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Leonardo Giustini
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Andreata
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Grillo
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Diletta Magini
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Micol Ravà
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Christin Friedrich
- Würzburg Institute of Systems Immunology, Max Planck Research Group at the Julius-Maximiliams-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Philippe Bousso
- Dynamics of Immune Responses Unit, Institut Pasteur, INSERM U1223, 75015 Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Eric Vivier
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CIML, Marseille 13288, France.,Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille 13276, France.,APHM, Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille-Immunopôle, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Georg Gasteiger
- Würzburg Institute of Systems Immunology, Max Planck Research Group at the Julius-Maximiliams-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mirela Kuka
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca G Guidotti
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Iannacone
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy.,Experimental Imaging Centre, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
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Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in innate immune responses to viral infections. Here, we review recent insights into the role of NK cells in viral infections, with particular emphasis on human studies. We first discuss NK cells in the context of acute viral infections, with flavivirus and influenza virus infections as examples. Questions related to activation of NK cells, homing to infected tissues and the role of tissue-resident NK cells in acute viral infections are also addressed. Next, we discuss NK cells in the context of chronic viral infections with hepatitis C virus and HIV-1. Also covered is the role of adaptive-like NK cell expansions as well as the appearance of CD56- NK cells in the course of chronic infection. Specific emphasis is then placed in viral infections in patients with primary immunodeficiencies affecting NK cells. Not least, studies in this area have revealed an important role for NK cells in controlling several herpesvirus infections. Finally, we address new data with respect to the activation of NK cells and NK cell function in humans infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) giving rise to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas K Björkström
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Benedikt Strunz
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hans-Gustaf Ljunggren
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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34
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Jin X, Yan ZH, Lu L, Lu S, Zhang G, Lin W. Peripheral Immune Cells Exhaustion and Functional Impairment in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:759292. [PMID: 34782855 PMCID: PMC8589627 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.759292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
After infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV), the virus induces a variety of immune disorders in the host, leading to immune escape and, finally, the chronicity of the disease. This study investigated immune cell defects and functional impairment in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). We analyzed the percentage, function, and phenotypes of various immune cell subpopulations in the peripheral blood along with the concentrations of cytokines in the plasma. We compared the results between patients with CHB and healthy individuals. It was found that in patients with CHB, the cell function was impaired and, there was increased expression of inhibitory receptors, such as NKG2A and PD-1 in both NK and T cells. The impairment of function was mainly in cytokine secretion, and the cytotoxicity was not significantly diminished. We also found that the proportion of dendritic cells (DC) decreased and regulatory B cells (Breg) increased in CHB. In addition, the Breg cells were negatively correlated with T cell cytokine and positively correlated with ALT and HBV viral load. Taken together, various disorders and functional impairments were found in the immune cells of peripheral blood in CHB patients, especially NK and T cells. These cells showed exhaustion and the increase of regulatory B cells may be one of the reasons for this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Han Yan
- Department of Hepatology, Wuxi Fifth People's Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Lingna Lu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengjia Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guoping Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
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35
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Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are key effectors of the innate immune system which represent the first line of defense against viral infections. NK cell activation depends on the engagement of a complex receptor repertoire expressed on their surface, consisting of both activating and inhibitory receptors. Among the known NK cell receptors, the family of killer Ig-like receptors (KIRs) consists in activating/inhibitory receptors that interact with specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules expressed on target cells. In particular, the expression of peculiar KIRs have been reported to be associated to viral infection susceptibility. Interestingly, a significant association between the development and onset of different human pathologies, such as tumors, neurodegeneration and infertility, and a clonal KIRs expression on NK cells has been described in presence of viral infections, supporting the crucial role of KIRs in defining the effect of viral infections in different tissues and organs. This review aims to report the state of art about the role of KIRs receptors in NK cell activation and viral infection control.
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36
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Du Y, Anastasiou OE, Strunz B, Scheuten J, Bremer B, Kraft A, Kleinsimglinhaus K, Todt D, Broering R, Hardtke-Wolenski M, Wu J, Yang D, Dittmer U, Lu M, Cornberg M, Björkström NK, Khera T, Wedemeyer H. The impact of hepatitis B surface antigen on natural killer cells in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Liver Int 2021; 41:2046-2058. [PMID: 33794040 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS During chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, suppressed functionality of natural killer (NK) cells might contribute to HBV persistence but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. A peculiar feature of HBV is the secretion of large amount of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). However, the effect of HBsAg quantities on NK cells is unclear. The aim was to determine the effects of HBsAg quantities on NK cell functionality in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). METHODS Eighty CHB patients were included and categorized into four groups based on their HBsAg levels. As a control, 30 healthy donors were enrolled. NK cell frequency, phenotype and function were assessed using flow cytometry and correlated with HBsAg levels and liver enzymes. RESULTS Compared to the healthy controls, a reshaping of NK cell pool towards more CD56bright NK cells was observed during CHB infection. Importantly, NK cells in patients with low HBsAg levels (<100 IU/mL) displayed an activated phenotype with increased expression of activation makers CD38, granzyme B and proliferation marker Ki-67 while presenting with defective functional responses (MIP-1β, CD107a) at the same time. Furthermore, NK cell activation was negatively correlated with patient HBsAg levels while NK function correlated with patient age. CONCLUSIONS The differential regulation of NK cell phenotype and function suggests that activation of NK cells in patients with low serum HBsAg levels may contribute to HBV clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqin Du
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Olympia E Anastasiou
- Institute for Virology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Benedikt Strunz
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center for Infectious Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Janina Scheuten
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Birgit Bremer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anke Kraft
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,Center for Individualized Infection Medicine (CIIM), Hannover, Germany.,Twincore, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Karolina Kleinsimglinhaus
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Daniel Todt
- Department of Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,European Virus Bioinformatics Center (EVBC), Jena, Germany
| | - Ruth Broering
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Matthias Hardtke-Wolenski
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dongliang Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ulf Dittmer
- Institute for Virology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Mengji Lu
- Institute for Virology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,Center for Individualized Infection Medicine (CIIM), Hannover, Germany.,Twincore, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Braunschweig, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence Resolving Infection Susceptibility (RESIST:EXC), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Niklas K Björkström
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center for Infectious Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tanvi Khera
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Braunschweig, Germany
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37
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Rios DA, Casciato PC, Caldirola MS, Gaillard MI, Giadans C, Ameigeiras B, De Matteo EN, Preciado MV, Valva P. Chronic Hepatitis C Pathogenesis: Immune Response in the Liver Microenvironment and Peripheral Compartment. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:712105. [PMID: 34414132 PMCID: PMC8369367 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.712105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) pathogenic mechanisms as well as the participation of the immune response in the generation of liver damage are still a topic of interest. Here, we evaluated immune cell populations and cytokines in the liver and peripheral blood (PB) to elucidate their role in CHC pathogenesis. B, CTL, Th, Treg, Th1, Th17, and NK cell localization and frequency were evaluated on liver biopsies by immunohistochemistry, while frequency, differentiation, and functional status on PB were evaluated by flow cytometry. TNF-α, IL-23, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, IL-21, IL-10, and TGF-β expression levels were quantified in fresh liver biopsy by RT-qPCR and in plasma by CBA/ELISA. Liver CTL and Th1 at the lobular area inversely correlated with viral load (r = −0.469, p =0.003 and r = −0.384, p = 0.040). Treg correlated with CTL and Th1 at the lobular area (r = 0.784, p < 0.0001; r = 0.436, p = 0.013). Th17 correlated with hepatic IL-8 (r = 0.52, p < 0.05), and both were higher in advanced fibrosis cases (Th17 p = 0.0312, IL-8 p = 0.009). Hepatic cytokines were higher in severe hepatitis cases (IL-1β p = 0.026, IL-23 p = 0.031, IL-8 p = 0.002, TGF-β, p= 0.037). Peripheral NK (p = 0.008) and NK dim (p = 0.018) were diminished, while NK bright (p = 0.025) was elevated in patients vs. donors. Naïve Th (p = 0.011) and CTL (p = 0.0007) were decreased, while activated Th (p = 0.0007) and CTL (p = 0.0003) were increased. IFN-γ production and degranulation activity in NK and CTL were normal. Peripheral cytokines showed an altered profile vs. donors, particularly elevated IL-6 (p = 0.008) and TGF-β (p = 0.041). Total hepatic CTLs favored damage. Treg could not prevent fibrogenesis triggered by Th17 and IL-8. Peripheral T-lymphocyte differentiation stage shift, elevated cytokine levels and NK-cell count decrease would contribute to global disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Alejandra Rios
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - María Soledad Caldirola
- Immunology Unit, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Isabel Gaillard
- Immunology Unit, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Giadans
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Elena Noemí De Matteo
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Preciado
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pamela Valva
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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38
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De Pasquale C, Campana S, Barberi C, Sidoti Migliore G, Oliveri D, Lanza M, Musolino C, Raimondo G, Ferrone S, Pollicino T, Ferlazzo G. Human Hepatitis B Virus Negatively Impacts the Protective Immune Crosstalk Between Natural Killer and Dendritic Cells. Hepatology 2021; 74:550-565. [PMID: 33482027 PMCID: PMC8295401 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Natural killer (NK) cells play a crucial role in the clearance of human viruses but their activity is significantly impaired in patients infected with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Cooperation with dendritic cells (DCs) is pivotal for obtaining optimal NK cell antiviral function; thus, we investigated whether HBV might impact the ability of DCs to sustain NK cell functions. APPROACH AND RESULTS Human DCs were poor stimulators of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) production by NK cells when exposed to HBV, while maintaining the capability to trigger NK cell cytotoxicity. HBV prevented DC maturation but did not affect their expression of human leukocyte antigen class I, thus allowing DCs to evade NK cell lysis. Tolerogenic features of DCs exposed to HBV were further supported by their increased expression of IL-10 and the immunosuppressive enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, which contributed to the impairment of DC-mediated NK cell IFN-γ production and proliferation, respectively. HBV could also inhibit the expression of inducible immunoproteasome (iP) subunits on DCs. In fact, NK cells could induce iP subunit expression on DCs, but they failed in the presence of HBV. Remarkably, circulating blood DC antigen1 (BDCA1)+ DCs isolated from patients with CHB were functionally compromised, hence altering, in turn, NK cell responses. CONCLUSIONS The abnormal NK-DC interplay caused by HBV may significantly impair the efficacy of antiviral immune response in patients with CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia De Pasquale
- Laboratory of Immunology and BiotherapyUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly.,Department of Human PathologyUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Stefania Campana
- Laboratory of Immunology and BiotherapyUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly.,Department of Human PathologyUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Chiara Barberi
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES)University of GenoaGenoaItaly
| | | | - Daniela Oliveri
- Cell Factory Center and Division of Clinical PathologyUniversity Hospital G. MartinoMessinaItaly
| | - Marika Lanza
- Department of Clinical and Experimental MedicineUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Cristina Musolino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental MedicineUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly.,Division of Clinical and Molecular HepatologyUniversity Hospital G. MartinoMessinaItaly
| | - Giovanni Raimondo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental MedicineUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly.,Division of Clinical and Molecular HepatologyUniversity Hospital G. MartinoMessinaItaly
| | - Soldano Ferrone
- Department of SurgeryMassachusetts General HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMA
| | - Teresa Pollicino
- Department of Human PathologyUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly.,Division of Clinical and Molecular HepatologyUniversity Hospital G. MartinoMessinaItaly
| | - Guido Ferlazzo
- Laboratory of Immunology and BiotherapyUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly.,Department of Human PathologyUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly.,Cell Factory Center and Division of Clinical PathologyUniversity Hospital G. MartinoMessinaItaly
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39
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Highton AJ, Schuster IS, Degli-Esposti MA, Altfeld M. The role of natural killer cells in liver inflammation. Semin Immunopathol 2021; 43:519-533. [PMID: 34230995 PMCID: PMC8260327 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-021-00877-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The liver is an important immunological site that can promote immune tolerance or activation. Natural killer (NK) cells are a major immune subset within the liver, and therefore understanding their role in liver homeostasis and inflammation is crucial. Due to their cytotoxic function, NK cells are important in the immune response against hepatotropic viral infections but are also involved in the inflammatory processes of autoimmune liver diseases and fatty liver disease. Whether NK cells primarily promote pro-inflammatory or tolerogenic responses is not known for many liver diseases. Understanding the involvement of NK cells in liver inflammation will be crucial in effective treatment and future immunotherapeutic targeting of NK cells in these disease settings. Here, we explore the role that NK cells play in inflammation of the liver in the context of viral infection, autoimmunity and fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Highton
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - I S Schuster
- Experimental and Viral Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Infection and Immunity Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - M A Degli-Esposti
- Experimental and Viral Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Infection and Immunity Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - M Altfeld
- Institute for Immunology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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40
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Amin OE, Colbeck EJ, Daffis S, Khan S, Ramakrishnan D, Pattabiraman D, Chu R, Micolochick Steuer H, Lehar S, Peiser L, Palazzo A, Frey C, Davies J, Javanbakht H, Rosenberg WM, Fletcher SP, Maini MK, Pallett LJ. Therapeutic Potential of TLR8 Agonist GS-9688 (Selgantolimod) in Chronic Hepatitis B: Remodeling of Antiviral and Regulatory Mediators. Hepatology 2021; 74:55-71. [PMID: 33368377 PMCID: PMC8436741 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS GS-9688 (selgantolimod) is a toll-like receptor 8 agonist in clinical development for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Antiviral activity of GS-9688 has previously been evaluated in vitro in HBV-infected hepatocytes and in vivo in the woodchuck model of CHB. Here we evaluated the potential of GS-9688 to boost responses contributing to viral control and to modulate regulatory mediators. APPROACH AND RESULTS We characterized the effect of GS-9688 on immune cell subsets in vitro in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy controls and patients with CHB. GS-9688 activated dendritic cells and mononuclear phagocytes to produce IL-12 and other immunomodulatory mediators, inducing a comparable cytokine profile in healthy controls and patients with CHB. GS-9688 increased the frequency of activated natural killer (NK) cells, mucosal-associated invariant T cells, CD4+ follicular helper T cells, and, in about 50% of patients, HBV-specific CD8+ T cells expressing interferon-γ. Moreover, in vitro stimulation with GS-9688 induced NK-cell expression of interferon-γ and TNF-α, and promoted hepatocyte lysis. We also assessed whether GS-9688 inhibited immunosuppressive cell subsets that might enhance antiviral efficacy. Stimulation with GS-9688 reduced the frequency of CD4+ regulatory T cells and monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Residual MDSCs expressed higher levels of negative immune regulators, galectin-9 and programmed death-ligand 1. Conversely, GS-9688 induced an expansion of immunoregulatory TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand+ NK cells and degranulation of arginase-I+ polymorphonuclear MDSCs. CONCLUSIONS GS-9688 induces cytokines in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells that are able to activate antiviral effector function by multiple immune mediators (HBV-specific CD8+ T cells, CD4+ follicular helper T cells, NK cells, and mucosal-associated invariant T cells). Although reducing the frequency of some immunoregulatory subsets, it enhances the immunosuppressive potential of others, highlighting potential biomarkers and immunotherapeutic targets to optimize the antiviral efficacy of GS-9688.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver E. Amin
- Division of Infection & ImmunityInstitute of Immunity & TransplantationUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Emily J. Colbeck
- Division of Infection & ImmunityInstitute of Immunity & TransplantationUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Ruth Chu
- Gilead Sciences Inc.Foster CityCA
| | | | - Sophie Lehar
- Gilead Sciences Inc.Foster CityCA
- Present address:
Genentech Inc.South San FranciscoCA
| | - Leanne Peiser
- Gilead Sciences Inc.Foster CityCA
- Present address:
Bristol Myers SquibbSeattleWA
| | | | - Christian Frey
- Gilead Sciences Inc.Foster CityCA
- Present address:
Ideaya Biosciences Inc.South San FranciscoCA
| | - Jessica Davies
- Division of Infection & ImmunityInstitute of Immunity & TransplantationUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Hassan Javanbakht
- Gilead Sciences Inc.Foster CityCA
- Present address:
SQZ BiotechnologiesWatertownMA
| | | | | | - Mala K. Maini
- Division of Infection & ImmunityInstitute of Immunity & TransplantationUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Laura J. Pallett
- Division of Infection & ImmunityInstitute of Immunity & TransplantationUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
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Serum HBV pregenomic RNA exhibited opposite associations with NKdim and NKbright cell immunity in treatment-naïve chronic hepatitis B patients. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:229068. [PMID: 34151357 PMCID: PMC8255538 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20210600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) is a new biomarker that reflects HBV replication, but its relationship with natural killer (NK) cell immunity in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is unknown. We assessed serum HBV pgRNA levels in 323 CHB patients by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, assessed cytokine production and activation and inhibitory markers of NK cells by flow cytometry, and measured serum cytokines by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Among the different CHB phases, the serum HBV pgRNA level was highest in the immune-tolerant (IT) and immune-active (IA) phases. Regarding NK and NKdim cells, HBV pgRNA was negatively associated with frequencies, but positively associated with NKp44 and NKp46 expression (activation markers). Regarding NKbright cells, serum HBV pgRNA was positively associated with frequency and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) expression (inhibitory marker), but negatively associated with NKp44 and NKp46. Serum HBV pgRNA was not associated with NKp30 (activation marker) on NK cells or subsets. Lastly, serum HBV pgRNA was positively correlated with the levels of serum IL-7 and IL-12P40 (NK cell-promoting cytokines) and negatively correlated with serum prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) level (which negatively regulates NK cells). In conclusion, we found varied relationships between serum HBV pgRNA and NK cells and subsets, indicating that HBV pgRNA may play a complicated role in NK cell-related immunity, providing new information on HBV and host immunity.
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Campos-Valdez M, Monroy-Ramírez HC, Armendáriz-Borunda J, Sánchez-Orozco LV. Molecular Mechanisms during Hepatitis B Infection and the Effects of the Virus Variability. Viruses 2021; 13:v13061167. [PMID: 34207116 PMCID: PMC8235420 DOI: 10.3390/v13061167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunopathogenesis and molecular mechanisms involved during a hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection have made the approaches for research complex, especially concerning the patients’ responses in the course of the early acute stage. The study of molecular bases involved in the viral clearance or persistence of the infection is complicated due to the difficulty to detect patients at the most adequate points of the disease, especially in the time lapse between the onset of the infection and the viral emergence. Despite this, there is valuable data obtained from animal and in vitro models, which have helped to clarify some aspects of the early immune response against HBV infection. The diversity of the HBV (genotypes and variants) has been proven to be associated not only with the development and outcome of the disease but also with the response to treatments. That is why factors involved in the virus evolution need to be considered while studying hepatitis B infection. This review brings together some of the published data to try to explain the immunological and molecular mechanisms involved in the different stages of the infection, clinical outcomes, viral persistence, and the impact of the variants of HBV in these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Campos-Valdez
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, México; (M.C.-V.); (H.C.M.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
| | - Hugo C. Monroy-Ramírez
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, México; (M.C.-V.); (H.C.M.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
| | - Juan Armendáriz-Borunda
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, México; (M.C.-V.); (H.C.M.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
- Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Guadalajara, Zapopan 45201, Jalisco, México
| | - Laura V. Sánchez-Orozco
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, México; (M.C.-V.); (H.C.M.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-33-3954-5677
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43
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The effects of stereotactic body radiotherapy on peripheral natural killer and CD3 +CD56 + NKT-like cells in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2021; 20:240-250. [PMID: 33454220 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2020.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both natural killer (NK) and CD3+CD56+natural killer T (NKT)-like cells play critical roles in the antitumor response. This study aimed to explore the effects of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) on peripheral NK and NKT-like cells in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and to identify possible surface markers on these cells that correlate with the prognosis. METHODS Twenty-five HCC patients were prospectively enrolled in our study, and 10 healthy individuals were served as healthy controls. Flow cytometry was used to determine the counts and the percentages of peripheral NK and NKT-like cells, cells with certain receptors, and cells with intracellular interferon-γ and TNF-α secretion at different time points, including time points of prior to SBRT, at post-SBRT, and 3-month and 6-month after treatment. The Kaplan-Meier method with the log-rank test was applied for survival analysis. RESULTS The peripheral NKT-like cells was increased at post-SBRT. Meanwhile, elevated levels of inhibitory receptors and reduced levels of activating receptors of NK cells were also observed in NK cells at post-SBRT, but the levels was not significantly different at 3-month and 6-month as compared with the baseline levels. Lower percentage of NKp30+NK cells before SBRT and higher percentage of CD158b+NK cells after SBRT were associated with poor progression-free survival. In addition, higher percentage of CD3+CD56+ NKT-like cells was associated with a higher overall survival rate in HCC patients. CONCLUSIONS SBRT has an apparent effect on both peripheral NK and CD3+CD56+NKT-like cells. Lower percentage of NKp30+NK cells before SBRT and higher percentage of CD158b+NK cells after SBRT are correlated with poor patients' PFS. Higher percentage of CD3+CD56+ NKT-like cells is associated with higher OS in HCC patients.
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44
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Natural Killer Cells and T Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Viral Hepatitis: Current Status and Perspectives for Future Immunotherapeutic Approaches. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061332. [PMID: 34071188 PMCID: PMC8227136 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells account for 25–50% of the total number of hepatic lymphocytes, which implicates that NK cells play an important role in liver immunity. The frequencies of both circulating and tumor infiltrating NK cells are positively correlated with survival benefit in hepatocellular cancer (HCC) and have prognostic implications, which suggests that functional impairment in NK cells and HCC progression are strongly associated. In HCC, T cell exhaustion is accompanied by the interaction between immune checkpoint ligands and their receptors on tumor cells and antigen presenting cells (APC). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been shown to interfere with this interaction and have altered the therapeutic landscape of multiple cancer types including HCC. Immunotherapy with check-point inhibitors, aimed at rescuing T-cells from exhaustion, has been applied as first-line therapy for HCC. NK cells are the first line effectors in viral hepatitis and play an important role by directly eliminating virus infected cells or by activating antigen specific T cells through IFN-γ production. Furthermore, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered NK cells and T cells offer unique opportunities to create CAR-NK with multiple specificities learning from the experience gained with CAR-T cells with potentially less adverse effects. This review focus on the abnormalities of NK cells, T cells, and their functional impairment in patients with chronic viral hepatitis, which contributes to progression to hepatic malignancy. Furthermore, we discuss and summarize recent advances in the NK cell and T cell based immunotherapeutic approaches in HCC.
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45
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Wijaya RS, Read SA, Schibeci S, Han S, Azardaryany MK, van der Poorten D, Lin R, Yuen L, Lam V, Douglas MW, George J, Ahlenstiel G. Expansion of dysfunctional CD56-CD16+ NK cells in chronic hepatitis B patients. Liver Int 2021; 41:969-981. [PMID: 33411395 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Natural killer (NK) cells are primary innate effector cells that play an important role in the control of human viral infections. During chronic viral infection, NK cells undergo significant changes in phenotype, function and subset distribution, including the appearance of CD56-CD16+ (CD56-) NK cells, previously identified in chronic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus infection. However, the presence of CD56- NK cells in the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains unknown. METHODS Phenotype and function of CD56- NK cells from patients with CHB (n = 28) were assessed using flow cytometry and in vitro stimulation with HBV antigen. RESULTS CHB patients had a higher frequency of CD56- NK cells compared to healthy controls in peripheral blood (6.2% vs 1.4%, P < .0001). Compared to CD56+ NK cells, CD56- NK cells had increased expression of inhibitory receptors, and reduced expression of activating receptors, as measured by MFI and qPCR. CD56- NK cells were less responsive to target cell and cytokine stimulation compared to their CD56+ counterparts. In addition, CD56- NK cells demonstrated defective dendritic cells (DCs) interactions resulting in reduced DCs maturation, lower expression of NK CD69 and impaired capacity of NK cells to eliminate immature DCs in co-culture studies. Finally, frequency of CD56- NK cells was positively correlated with serum HBV DNA levels. CONCLUSION Chronic HBV infection induces the expansion of highly dysfunctional of CD56- NK cells that likely contribute to inefficient innate and adaptive antiviral immune response in chronic HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratna S Wijaya
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Pelita Harapan University, Tangerang, Indonesia
| | - Scott A Read
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Blacktown Clinical School, Western Sydney University, Blacktown, NSW, Australia.,Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen Schibeci
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Shuanglin Han
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Mahmoud K Azardaryany
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Rita Lin
- Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Lawrence Yuen
- Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Surgery, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Vincent Lam
- Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Surgery, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark W Douglas
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Golo Ahlenstiel
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Blacktown Clinical School, Western Sydney University, Blacktown, NSW, Australia.,Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown, NSW, Australia
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46
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Natural Killer-Dendritic Cell Interactions in Liver Cancer: Implications for Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092184. [PMID: 34062821 PMCID: PMC8124166 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The reciprocal crosstalk between dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NK) cells plays a pivotal role in regulating immune defense against viruses and tumors. The Th-cell polarizing ability, cytokine-producing capacity, chemokine expression, and migration of DCs are regulated by activated NK cells. Conversely, the effector functions including lysis and cytokine production, proliferation, and migration of NK cells are influenced by close interactions with activated DCs. In this review, we explore the impact of DC–NK cell crosstalk and its therapeutic potential in immune control of liver malignances. Abstract Natural killer (NK) and dendritic cells (DCs) are innate immune cells that play a crucial role in anti-tumor immunity. NK cells kill tumor cells through direct cytotoxicity and cytokine secretion. DCs are needed for the activation of adaptive immune responses against tumor cells. Both NK cells and DCs are subdivided in several subsets endowed with specialized effector functions. Crosstalk between NK cells and DCs leads to the reciprocal control of their activation and polarization of immune responses. In this review, we describe the role of NK cells and DCs in liver cancer, focusing on the mechanisms involved in their reciprocal control and activation. In this context, intrahepatic NK cells and DCs present unique immunological features, due to the constant exposure to non-self-circulating antigens. These interactions might play a fundamental role in the pathology of primary liver cancer, namely hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Additionally, the implications of these immune changes are relevant from the perspective of improving the cancer immunotherapy strategies in HCC and ICC patients.
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Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a small positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus, the causal organism for chronic hepatitis. Chronic hepatitis leads to inflammation of liver, causing cirrhosis, fibrosis and steatosis, which may ultimately lead to liver cancer in a few cases. Innate and adaptive immune responses play an important role in the pathogenesis of HCV infection, thus acting as an important component in deciding the fate of the disease. Numerous studies have indicated that the derangement of these immune responses results in the persistence of infection leading to chronic state of the disease. Interactions between virus and host immune system generally result in the elimination of virus, but as the virus evolves with different evading mechanisms, it makes environment favourable for its survival and replication. It has been reported that HCV impairs the immune system by functional modulation of the cells of innate as well as adaptive immune responses, resulting in chronic state of the disease, influencing the response to antiviral therapy in these patients. These defects in the immune system lead to suboptimal immune responses and therefore, impaired effector functions. This review highlights the involvement or association of different immune cells such as natural killer cells, B cells, dendritic cells and T cells in HCV infection and how the virus plays a role in manipulating certain regulatory mechanisms to make these cells dysfunctional for its own persistence and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shallu Tomer
- Department of Immunopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sunil K Arora
- Department of Immunopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
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Zuo W, Zhao X. Natural killer cells play an important role in virus infection control: Antiviral mechanism, subset expansion and clinical application. Clin Immunol 2021; 227:108727. [PMID: 33887436 PMCID: PMC8055501 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
With the global spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the important role of natural killer (NK) cells in the control of various viral infections attracted more interest, via non-specific activation, such as antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and activating receptors, as well as specific activation, such as memory-like NK generation. In response to different viral infections, NK cells fight viruses in different ways, and different NK subsets proliferate. For instance, cytomegalovirus (CMV) induces NKG2C + CD57 + KIR+ NK cells to expand 3-6 months after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) induces KIR3DS1+/KIR3DL1 NK cells to expand in the acute phase of infection. However, the similarities and differences among these processes and their molecular mechanisms have not been fully discussed. In this article, we provide a summary and comparison of antiviral mechanisms, unique subset expansion and time periods in peripheral blood and tissues under different conditions of CMV, HIV, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), COVID-19 and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. Accordingly, we also discuss current clinical NK-associated antiviral applications, including cell therapy and NK-related biological agents, and we state the progress and future prospects of NK cell antiviral treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zuo
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhao
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China.
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49
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Wu ZQ, Tan L, Gan WQ, Mo ZS, Chen DB, Wang PP, Zhao QY, Xie DY, Gao ZL. The relationship between the clearance of HBsAg and the remodeling of B cell subsets in CHB patients treated with Peg-IFN-α. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:414. [PMID: 33842635 PMCID: PMC8033293 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background The seroconversion of the hepatitis B antigen is the ideal outcome for long-acting interferon-pegylated interferon-α (Peg-IFN-α) treatment among patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). B-cell response plays an important role in the process of hepatitis B antigen clearance, but the specific mechanism by which B-cell improve hepatitis B virus (HBV) is still unclear. Methods A total of 103 CHB patients participated in this study. The patients received 24 weeks of Peg-IFN-α treatment. Flow cytometry was used to detect B-cell surface markers’ cluster of differentiation cluster of differentiation CD19, CD24, and CD27 in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of CHB patients before and after 24 weeks of Peg-IFN-α treatment. Results After 24 weeks of Peg-IFN-α treatment, the content of memory B cells (CD19+CD27+) and effector B cells (CD19+CD38+) increased significantly. Further analysis showed that the clearance of the hepatitis B antigen was correlated with the change value, ΔT, of plasma cells before and after treatment. The B-cell subsets (CD19+CD24+; CD19+CD40+; CD19+CD40+; CD19+CD80+), was also tested and the results showed that CD19+CD24+ and CD19+CD80+ content also increased significantly after treatment. Conclusions After Peg-IFN-α treatment, the B-cell subsets of CHB patients are remodeled. Thus, Peg-IFN-α treatment appears to play an important role in the remodeling of B cell subsets and the clearance of HBV antigens. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis and guidance for the clinical treatment of CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Qian Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Tan
- Department of Medical Ultrasonic, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Qiang Gan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Shuo Mo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Da-Biao Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pei-Pei Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi-Yi Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dong-Ying Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Liang Gao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
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Sakamoto Y, Yoshio S, Doi H, Mori T, Matsuda M, Kawai H, Shimagaki T, Yoshikawa S, Aoki Y, Osawa Y, Yoshida Y, Arai T, Itokawa N, Atsukawa M, Ito T, Honda T, Mise Y, Ono Y, Takahashi Y, Saiura A, Taketomi A, Kanto T. Increased Frequency of Dysfunctional Siglec-7 -CD57 +PD-1 + Natural Killer Cells in Patients With Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Front Immunol 2021; 12:603133. [PMID: 33692781 PMCID: PMC7938755 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.603133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive disorder that can develop into liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Natural killer (NK) cells have been shown to protect against liver fibrosis and tumorigenesis, suggesting that they may also play a role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins (Siglecs) are a family of inhibitory and activating receptors expressed by many cell types, including NK cells. Here, we investigated the phenotypic profiles of peripheral blood and intrahepatic NK cells, including expression of Siglecs and immune checkpoint molecules, and their association with NK cell function in patients with NAFLD. Immune cells in the peripheral blood of 42 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 13 healthy volunteers (HVs) were identified by mass cytometry. The function of various NK cell subpopulations was assessed by flow cytometric detection of intracellular IFN-γ and CD107a/LAMP-1, a degranulation marker, after in vitro stimulation. We found that peripheral blood from NAFLD patients, regardless of fibrosis stage, contained significantly fewer total CD56+ NK cell and CD56dim NK cell populations compared with HVs, and the CD56dim cells from NAFLD patients were functionally impaired. Among the Siglecs examined, NK cells predominantly expressed Siglec-7 and Siglec-9, and both the expression levels of Siglec-7 and Siglec-9 on NK cells and the frequencies of Siglec-7+CD56dim NK cells were reduced in NAFLD patients. Notably, Siglec-7 levels on CD56dim NK cells were inversely correlated with PD-1, CD57, and ILT2 levels and positively correlated with NKp30 and NKp46 levels. Further subtyping of NK cells identified a highly dysfunctional Siglec-7-CD57+PD-1+CD56dim NK cell subset that was increased in patients with NAFLD, even those with mild liver fibrosis. Intrahepatic NK cells from NAFLD patients expressed elevated levels of NKG2D and CD69, suggesting a more activated phenotype than normal liver NK cells. These data identify a close association between NK cell function and expression of Siglec-7, CD57, and PD-1 that could potentially be therapeutically targeted in NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzuru Sakamoto
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Gastoenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Sachiyo Yoshio
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyoshi Doi
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taizo Mori
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michitaka Matsuda
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hironari Kawai
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomonari Shimagaki
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shiori Yoshikawa
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Aoki
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Osawa
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuji Yoshida
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taeang Arai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norio Itokawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masanori Atsukawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takanori Ito
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takashi Honda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Mise
- Department of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Ono
- Department of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu Takahashi
- Department of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akio Saiura
- Department of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akinobu Taketomi
- Department of Gastoenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kanto
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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