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Polis B, Cuda CM, Putterman C. Animal models of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus: deciphering the complexity and guiding therapeutic development. Autoimmunity 2024; 57:2330387. [PMID: 38555866 DOI: 10.1080/08916934.2024.2330387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) poses formidable challenges due to its multifaceted etiology while impacting multiple tissues and organs and displaying diverse clinical manifestations. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to SLE complexity, with relatively limited approved therapeutic options. Murine models offer insights into SLE pathogenesis but do not always replicate the nuances of human disease. This review critically evaluates spontaneous and induced animal models, emphasizing their validity and relevance to neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). While these models undoubtedly contribute to understanding disease pathophysiology, discrepancies persist in mimicking some NPSLE intricacies. The lack of literature addressing this issue impedes therapeutic progress. We underscore the urgent need for refining models that truly reflect NPSLE complexities to enhance translational fidelity. We encourage a comprehensive, creative translational approach for targeted SLE interventions, balancing scientific progress with ethical considerations to eventually improve the management of NPSLE patients. A thorough grasp of these issues informs researchers in designing experiments, interpreting results, and exploring alternatives to advance NPSLE research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baruh Polis
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Carla M Cuda
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
- Division of Rheumatology and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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2
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Moriyama R, Katsumata Y, Okamoto Y, Harigai M. Upregulation of PD-1 and its ligands and expansion of T peripheral helper cells in the nephritic kidneys of lupus-prone BXSB- Yaa mice. Lupus 2024; 33:816-827. [PMID: 38622764 DOI: 10.1177/09612033241247908] [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] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the role of the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) pathway and T peripheral helper (Tph) cells in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis using lupus-prone BXSB-Yaa mice. METHODS Male BXSB-Yaa mice and age-matched male C57BL/6 mice were used. The expression of PD-1 and its ligands (programmed cell death 1 ligand-1, PD-L1 and programmed cell death 1 ligand-2, PD-L2) and the phenotypes of kidney-derived cells and splenocytes expressing these molecules were analyzed by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. RESULTS Nephritis spontaneously developed in 16-week-old but not in 8-week-old BXSB-Yaa or C57BL/6 mice. PD-1 was expressed on CD4+ mononuclear cells (MNCs) that infiltrated the glomeruli of 16-week-old BXSB-Yaa mice. The frequency of CD4+PD-1+CXCR5-ICOS+ kidney-derived Tph cells was higher in 16-week-old than in 8-week-old BXSB-Yaa and C57BL/6 mice, whereas the frequency of CD4+PD-1+CXCR5+ICOS+ kidney-derived T follicular helper (Tfh) cells was not significantly different between the mice. PD-L1 was constitutively expressed in the renal tubules. PD-L2 was expressed in the glomeruli of 16-week-old BXSB-Yaa mice. The frequency of PD-L1highCD11c+CD3-CD19- and PD-L2+CD11c+CD3-CD19- kidney-derived MNCs in 16-week-old BXSB-Yaa mice was significantly higher than that of the control mice. The percentage of kidney-derived Tph cells but not Tfh cells was correlated with the urinary protein levels in the nephritic mice. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that kidney-infiltrating PD-1+ Tph cells expanded concomitantly with the upregulation of PD-L1 and PD-L2 in the kidneys and the progression of lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina Moriyama
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Katsumata
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Okamoto
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Harigai
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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3
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Petersone L, Walker LSK. T-cell help in the germinal center: homing in on the role of IL-21. Int Immunol 2024; 36:89-98. [PMID: 38164992 PMCID: PMC10880887 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxad056] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin 21 (IL-21) is a pleiotropic cytokine that is overproduced in multiple autoimmune settings. Provision of IL-21 from follicular helper T cells is an important component of T-cell help within germinal centers (GC), and the last few years have seen a resurgence of interest in IL-21 biology in the context of the GC environment. While it has been more than a decade since T cell-derived IL-21 was found to upregulate B-cell expression of the GC master transcription factor B-cell lymphoma 6 (Bcl-6) and to promote GC expansion, several recent studies have collectively delivered significant new insights into how this cytokine shapes GC B-cell selection, proliferation, and fate choice. It is now clear that IL-21 plays an important role in GC zonal polarization by contributing to light zone GC B-cell positive selection for dark zone entry as well as by promoting cyclin D3-dependent dark zone inertial cycling. While it has been established that IL-21 can contribute to the modulation of GC output by aiding the generation of antibody-secreting cells (ASC), recent studies have now revealed how IL-21 signal strength shapes the fate choice between GC cycle re-entry and ASC differentiation in vivo. Both provision of IL-21 and sensitivity to this cytokine are finely tuned within the GC environment, and dysregulation of this pathway in autoimmune settings could alter the threshold for germinal center B-cell selection and differentiation, potentially promoting autoreactive B-cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Petersone
- University College London Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Pears Building, Royal Free Campus, London NW3 2PP, UK
| | - Lucy S K Walker
- University College London Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Pears Building, Royal Free Campus, London NW3 2PP, UK
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Shbeer AM, Ahmed Robadi I. The role of Interleukin-21 in autoimmune Diseases: Mechanisms, therapeutic Implications, and future directions. Cytokine 2024; 173:156437. [PMID: 37972478 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156437] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
IL-21 is a multifunctional cytokine that regulates the functional activity of various immune cells. Initial studies have shown that IL-21 can influence the differentiation, proliferation and function of T and B cells, as well as promote the maturation and increase the cytotoxicity of CD8 + T cells and NK cells. During humoral immune responses, IL-21 has significant effects on B cell activation, differentiation and apoptosis. In addition, IL-21 promotes the differentiation of both naive and memory B cells, ultimately leading to the activation of plasma cells. The function of IL-21 in the immune system is complex, as it has the ability to either stimulate or inhibit immune responses. in addition, IL-21 facilitates the differentiation of naive and memory B cells into plasma cells. The functionality of IL-21 in the immune system is diverse, as it has the ability to stimulate or inhibit immune responses. This cytokine has been implicated in several diseases including cancer, allergies and autoimmune diseases. Research has suggested that this cytokine is involved in the development of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Several studies have suggested that inhibition of IL-21 has a therapeutic effect on autoimmune diseases. Therefore, targeting both the cytokine's receptor and IL-21 in autoimmune diseases may be an effective approach to reduce the severity of the disease or to treat it. This review will examine the biological effects of IL-21 on various immune cells and the role of the cytokine in autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah M Shbeer
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ibrahim Ahmed Robadi
- Department of pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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5
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Pham HN, Pham L, Sato K. Bioinformatic analysis identified novel candidate genes with the potentials for diagnostic blood testing of primary biliary cholangitis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292998. [PMID: 37844121 PMCID: PMC10578581 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by intrahepatic bile duct destruction and cholestatic liver injury. Diagnosis of PBC is generally based on the existence of anti-mitochondrial antibody (AMA) in blood samples; however, some PBC patients are negative for serum AMA tests, and invasive liver histological testing is required in rare PBC cases. The current study seeks novel candidate genes that are associated with PBC status and have potentials for blood diagnostic testing. Human transcriptomic profiling data of liver and blood samples were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Three GEO data series (GSE79850, GSE159676, and GSE119600) were downloaded, and bioinformatic analyses were performed. Various differentially expressed genes were identified in three data series by comparing PBC patients and control individuals. Twelve candidate genes were identified, which were upregulated in both liver tissues and blood samples of PBC patients in all three data series. The enrichment analysis demonstrated that 8 out of 12 candidate genes were associated with biological functions, which were closely related to autoimmune diseases including PBC. Candidate genes, especially ITGAL showed good potentials to distinguish PBC with other diseases. These candidate genes could be useful for diagnostic blood testing of PBC, although further clinical studies are required to evaluate their potentials as diagnostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Nam Pham
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Linh Pham
- Department of Science and Mathematics, Texas A&M University–Central Texas, Killeen, Texas, United States of America
| | - Keisaku Sato
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
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Repici A, Ardizzone A, Filippone A, Colarossi C, Mare M, Raciti G, Mannino D, Cuzzocrea S, Paterniti I, Esposito E. Interleukin-21 Influences Glioblastoma Course: Biological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential. Cells 2023; 12:2284. [PMID: 37759505 PMCID: PMC10526836 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182284] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors represent a heterogeneous group of neoplasms involving the brain or nearby tissues, affecting populations of all ages with a high incidence worldwide. Among the primary brain tumors, the most aggressive and also the most common is glioblastoma (GB), a type of glioma that falls into the category of IV-grade astrocytoma. GB often leads to death within a few months after diagnosis, even if the patient is treated with available therapies; for this reason, it is important to continue to discover new therapeutic approaches to allow for a better survival rate of these patients. Immunotherapy, today, seems to be one of the most innovative types of treatment, based on the ability of the immune system to counteract various pathologies, including cancer. In this context, interleukin 21 (IL-21), a type I cytokine produced by natural killer (NK) cells and CD4+ T lymphocytes, appears to be a valid target for new therapies since this cytokine is involved in the activation of innate and adaptive immunity. To match this purpose, our review deeply evaluated how IL-21 could influence the progression of GB, analyzing its main biological processes and mechanisms while evaluating the potential use of the latest available therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Repici
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Alessio Ardizzone
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Alessia Filippone
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Cristina Colarossi
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, Italy; (C.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Marzia Mare
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, Italy; (C.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Gabriele Raciti
- IOM Ricerca, Via Penninazzo 11, 95029 Viagrande, Italy;
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Deborah Mannino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Irene Paterniti
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Emanuela Esposito
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
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Largent AD, Lambert K, Chiang K, Shumlak N, Liggitt D, Oukka M, Torgerson TR, Buckner JH, Allenspach EJ, Rawlings DJ, Jackson SW. Dysregulated IFN-γ signals promote autoimmunity in STAT1 gain-of-function syndrome. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eade7028. [PMID: 37406138 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.ade7028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Heterozygous signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) gain-of-function (GOF) mutations promote a clinical syndrome of immune dysregulation characterized by recurrent infections and predisposition to humoral autoimmunity. To gain insights into immune characteristics of STAT1-driven inflammation, we performed deep immunophenotyping of pediatric patients with STAT1 GOF syndrome and age-matched controls. Affected individuals exhibited dysregulated CD4+ T cell and B cell activation, including expansion of TH1-skewed CXCR3+ populations that correlated with serum autoantibody titers. To dissect underlying immune mechanisms, we generated Stat1 GOF transgenic mice (Stat1GOF mice) and confirmed the development of spontaneous humoral autoimmunity that recapitulated the human phenotype. Despite clinical resemblance to human regulatory T cell (Treg) deficiency, Stat1GOF mice and humans with STAT1 GOF syndrome exhibited normal Treg development and function. In contrast, STAT1 GOF autoimmunity was characterized by adaptive immune activation driven by dysregulated STAT1-dependent signals downstream of the type 1 and type 2 interferon (IFN) receptors. However, in contrast to the prevailing type 1 IFN-centric model for STAT1 GOF autoimmunity, Stat1GOF mice lacking the type 1 IFN receptor were only partially protected from STAT1-driven systemic inflammation, whereas loss of type 2 IFN (IFN-γ) signals abrogated autoimmunity. Last, germline STAT1 GOF alleles are thought to enhance transcriptional activity by increasing total STAT1 protein, but the underlying biochemical mechanisms have not been defined. We showed that IFN-γ receptor deletion normalized total STAT1 expression across immune lineages, highlighting IFN-γ as the critical driver of feedforward STAT1 elevation in STAT1 GOF syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kristy Chiang
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Natali Shumlak
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Denny Liggitt
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Mohammed Oukka
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | | | | | - Eric J Allenspach
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - David J Rawlings
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Shaun W Jackson
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Lahmar R, Chabchoub E, Zemni R, Anis M, Ghannouchi N, Slama FBH. Interleukin-21 receptor gene polymorphism (rs2285452 A/G) is associated with susceptibility to Behçet's disease. Int J Immunogenet 2023. [PMID: 37243939 DOI: 10.1111/iji.12623] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic auto inflammatory disorder of unknown aetiology. Recently, the dysregulation of interleukin-21 receptor (IL-21R) has been incriminated in different autoimmune and auto-inflammatory diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematous, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes. Herein, we aimed to investigate the association of two Il-21R gene polymorphisms with BD. IL-21R rs2214537 and IL-21R rs2285452 genotypings were investigated in a cohort of 110 adult patients with BD and 116 age and gender unmatched healthy controls. Genotyping was performed by mutagenically separated polymerase chain reaction with newly designed primers. IL-21R rs2285452 genotypes and alleles distribution were statistically different between patients with BD and controls. GA and AA genotypes carrying the minor A allele were more frequent in patients with BD than in healthy controls (37.3% and 11.8% vs. 23.3% and 3.4%, respectively). The minor A allele was associated with an increased BD risk (odds ratios = 2.42, 95% confidence interval = 1.214.87, p = .005). IL-21R rs2214537 GG genotype was found to be associated with susceptibility to BD in the recessive model (GG vs. CC + CG; p = .046, OR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.003.650. IL-21R rs2285452 and IL-21R rs2214537 were not in linkage disequilibrium (D' = 0.42). The AG haplotype was more frequently observed in patients with BD than in controls (0.247 vs. 0.056, p = .0001). This study for the first time reports the association of IL-21R rs2285452 and IL-21R rs2214537 with BD. Functional studies are required to elucidate the exact role of these genetic variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajaa Lahmar
- Immunogenetics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Elyes Chabchoub
- Immunogenetics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Ramzi Zemni
- Immunogenetics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Mzabi Anis
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Sahloul, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Neirouz Ghannouchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Farhat, Hached, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
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Gong M, Choi SC, Park YP, Zou X, Elshikha AS, Gerriets VA, Rathmell JC, Mohamazadeh M, Morel L. Transcriptional and metabolic programs promote the expansion of follicular helper T cells in lupus-prone mice. iScience 2023; 26:106774. [PMID: 37216123 PMCID: PMC10197114 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The expansion of follicular helper T (Tfh) cells, which is tightly associated with the development of lupus, is reversed by the inhibition of either glycolysis or glutaminolysis in mice. Here we analyzed the gene expression and metabolome of Tfh cells and naive CD4+ T (Tn) cells in the B6.Sle1.Sle2.Sle3 (triple congenic, TC) mouse model of lupus and its congenic B6 control. Lupus genetic susceptibility in TC mice drives a gene expression signature starting in Tn cells and expanding in Tfh cells with enhanced signaling and effector programs. Metabolically, TC Tn and Tfh cells showed multiple defective mitochondrial functions. TC Tfh cells also showed specific anabolic programs including enhanced glutamate metabolism, malate-aspartate shuttle, and ammonia recycling, as well as altered dynamics of amino acid content and their transporters. Thus, our study has revealed specific metabolic programs that can be targeted to specifically limit the expansion of pathogenic Tfh cells in lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghao Gong
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Seung-Chul Choi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Yuk Pheel Park
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Xueyang Zou
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Ahmed S. Elshikha
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Valerie A. Gerriets
- Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Jeffrey C. Rathmell
- Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Mansour Mohamazadeh
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Laurence Morel
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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10
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Seth A, Yokokura Y, Choi JY, Shyer JA, Vidyarthi A, Craft J. AP-1-independent NFAT signaling maintains follicular T cell function in infection and autoimmunity. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20211110. [PMID: 36820828 PMCID: PMC9998660 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20211110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Coordinated gene expression programs enable development and function of T cell subsets. Follicular helper T (Tfh) cells coordinate humoral immune responses by providing selective and instructive cues to germinal center B cells. Here, we show that AP-1-independent NFAT gene expression, a program associated with hyporesponsive T cell states like anergy or exhaustion, is also a distinguishing feature of Tfh cells. NFAT signaling in Tfh cells, maintained by NFAT2 autoamplification, is required for their survival. ICOS signaling upregulates Bcl6 and induces an AP-1-independent NFAT program in primary T cells. Using lupus-prone mice, we demonstrate that genetic disruption or pharmacologic inhibition of NFAT signaling specifically impacts Tfh cell maintenance and leads to amelioration of autoantibody production and renal injury. Our data provide important conceptual and therapeutic insights into the signaling mechanisms that regulate Tfh cell development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinav Seth
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yoshiyuki Yokokura
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jin-Young Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Justin A. Shyer
- Department of Immunobiology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Aurobind Vidyarthi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joe Craft
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Immunobiology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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11
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Abboud G, Choi SC, Zhang X, Park YP, Kanda N, Zeumer-Spataro L, Terrell M, Teng X, Nündel K, Shlomchik MJ, Morel L. Glucose Requirement of Antigen-Specific Autoreactive B Cells and CD4+ T Cells. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:377-388. [PMID: 36602759 PMCID: PMC9898175 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The activation of lymphocytes in patients with lupus and in mouse models of the disease is coupled with an increased cellular metabolism in which glucose plays a major role. The pharmacological inhibition of glycolysis with 2-deoxy-d-glucose (2DG) reversed the expansion of follicular helper CD4+ T cells and germinal center B cells in lupus-prone mice, as well as the production of autoantibodies. The response of foreign Ags was however not affected by 2DG in these mice, suggesting that B and CD4+ T cell activation by autoantigens is uniquely sensitive to glycolysis. In this study, we tested this hypothesis with monoclonal B cells and CD4+ T cells specific for lupus-relevant autoantigens. AM14 Vκ8R (AM14) transgenic B cells are activated by IgG2a/chromatin immune complexes and they can receive cognate help from chromatin-specific 13C2 CD4+ T cells. We showed that activation of AM14 B cells by their cognate Ag PL2-3 induced glycolysis, and that the inhibition of glycolysis reduced their activation and differentiation into Ab-forming cells, in the absence or presence of T cell help. The dependency of autoreactive B cells on glycolysis is in sharp contrast with the previously reported dependency of 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl acetyl-specific B cells on fatty acid oxidation. Contrary to AM14 B cells, the activation and differentiation of 13C2 T cells into follicular helper CD4+ T cells was not altered by 2DG, which differs from polyclonal CD4+ T cells from lupus-prone mice. These results further define the role of glycolysis in the production of lupus autoantibodies and demonstrate the need to evaluate the metabolic requirements of Ag-specific B and T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges Abboud
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Seung-Chul Choi
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xiaojuan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Yuk Pheel Park
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nathalie Kanda
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Leilani Zeumer-Spataro
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Morgan Terrell
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xiangyu Teng
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kirsten Nündel
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Mark J. Shlomchik
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Laurence Morel
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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12
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Moore E, Huang MW, Reynolds CA, Macian F, Putterman C. Choroid Plexus-Infiltrating T Cells as Drivers of Murine Neuropsychiatric Lupus. Arthritis Rheumatol 2022; 74:1796-1807. [PMID: 35637551 PMCID: PMC9825865 DOI: 10.1002/art.42252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE T cells are critical in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in that they secrete inflammatory cytokines, help autoantibody production, and form autoreactive memory T cells. Although the contribution of T cells to several forms of organ-mediated damage in SLE has been previously demonstrated, the role of T cells in neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE), which involves diffuse central nervous system manifestations and is observed in 20-40% of SLE patients, is not known. Therefore, we conducted this study to evaluate how behavioral deficits are altered after depletion or transfer of T cells, to directly assess the role of T cells in NPSLE. METHODS MRL/lpr mice, an NPSLE mouse model, were either systemically depleted of CD4+ T cells or intracerebroventricularly injected with choroid plexus (CP)-infiltrating T cells and subsequently evaluated for alterations in neuropsychiatric manifestations. Our study end points included evaluation of systemic disease and assessment of central nervous system changes. RESULTS Systemic depletion of CD4+ T cells ameliorated systemic disease and cognitive deficits. Intracerebroventricular injection of CP-infiltrating T cells exacerbated depressive-like behavior and worsened cognition in recipient mice compared with mice who received injection of splenic lupus T cells or phosphate buffered saline. Moreover, we observed enhanced activation in CP-infiltrating T cells when cocultured with brain lysate-pulsed dendritic cells in comparison to the activation levels observed in cocultures with splenic T cells. CONCLUSION T cells, and more specifically CP-infiltrating antigen-specific T cells, contributed to the pathogenesis of NPSLE in mice, indicating that, in the development of more targeted treatments for NPSLE, modulation of T cells may represent a potential therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Moore
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Division of RheumatologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineNew York
| | - Michelle W. Huang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Division of RheumatologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineNew York
| | - Cara A. Reynolds
- Department of PathologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineNew York
| | - Fernando Macian
- Department of PathologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineNew York
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar‐Ilan University, Safed, Israel, Galilee Research Institute, Nahariya, Israel, and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Division of RheumatologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineNew York
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13
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Chi X, Gu J, Ma X. Characteristics and Roles of T Follicular Helper Cells in SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Response. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10101623. [PMID: 36298488 PMCID: PMC9611968 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10101623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination is critical to controlling the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, a weak response to the vaccine and insufficient persistence of specific antibodies may threaten the global impact of mass vaccination campaigns. This study summarizes the internal factors of the body that affect the effectiveness of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells support germinal center B cells to produce vaccine-specific immunoglobulins. A reduction in the Tfh cell number and a shift in the subset phenotypes caused by multiple factors may impair the production and persistence of high-affinity antibodies. Besides efficacy differences caused by the different types of vaccines, the factors that affect vaccine effectiveness by intervening in the Tfh cell response also include age-related defects, the polarity of the body microenvironment, repeated immunization, immunodeficiency, and immunosuppressive treatments. Assessing the phenotypic distribution and activation levels of Tfh cell subsets after vaccination is helpful in predicting vaccine responses and may identify potential targets for improving vaccine effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuyang Chi
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Jia Gu
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Xiaoxue Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology and Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, and Canadian Center for Vaccinology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS B3K 6R8, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-024-83282527
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14
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Raveney BJE, El‐Darawish Y, Sato W, Arinuma Y, Yamaoka K, Hori S, Yamamura T, Oki S. Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) expression distinguishes self-reactive helper T cells in systemic autoimmune disease. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e15864. [PMID: 36069030 PMCID: PMC9549730 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202215864] [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: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic T helper cells (Th cells) that respond to self-antigen cannot be easily distinguished from beneficial Th cells. These cells can generate systemic autoimmune disease in response to widely expressed self-antigens. In this study, we have identified neuropilin-1 (NRP1) as a cell surface marker of self-reactive Th cells. NRP1+ Th cells, absent in non-regulatory T cell subsets in normal mice, appeared in models of systemic autoimmune disease and strongly correlated with disease symptoms. NRP1+ Th cells were greatly reduced in Nr4a2 cKO mice, which have reduced self-reactive responses but showed normal responses against exogenous antigens. Transfer of NRP1+ Th cells was sufficient to initiate or accelerate systemic autoimmune disease, and targeting NRP1-expressing Th cells therapeutically ameliorated SLE-like autoimmune symptoms in BXSB-Yaa mice. Peripheral NRP1+ Th cells were significantly increased in human SLE patients. Our data suggest that self-reactive Th cells can be phenotypically distinguished within the Th cell pool. These findings offer a novel approach to identify self-reactive Th cells and target them to treat systemic autoimmune disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben JE Raveney
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
| | - Yosif El‐Darawish
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
| | - Wakiro Sato
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
| | - Yoshiyuki Arinuma
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious DiseasesKitasato University School of MedicineSagamiharaJapan
| | - Kunihiro Yamaoka
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious DiseasesKitasato University School of MedicineSagamiharaJapan
| | - Shohei Hori
- Laboratory for Immunology and MicrobiologyGraduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Yamamura
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
| | - Shinji Oki
- Department of ImmunologyNational Institute of NeuroscienceTokyoJapan
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15
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Cao T, Liu L, To KK, Lim C, Zhou R, Ming Y, Kwan K, Yu S, Chan C, Zhou B, Huang H, Mo Y, Du Z, Gong R, Yat L, Hung IF, Tam AR, To W, Leung W, Chik TS, Tsang OT, Lin X, Song Y, Yuen K, Chen Z. Mitochondrial regulation of acute extrafollicular B-cell responses to COVID-19 severity. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e1025. [PMID: 36103567 PMCID: PMC9473490 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with COVID-19 display a broad spectrum of manifestations from asymptomatic to life-threatening disease with dysregulated immune responses. Mechanisms underlying the detrimental immune responses and disease severity remain elusive. METHODS We investigated a total of 137 APs infected with SARS-CoV-2. Patients were divided into mild and severe patient groups based on their requirement of oxygen supplementation. All blood samples from APs were collected within three weeks after symptom onset. Freshly isolated PBMCs were investigated for B cell subsets, their homing potential, activation state, mitochondrial functionality and proliferative response. Plasma samples were tested for cytokine concentration, and titer of Nabs, RBD-, S1-, SSA/Ro- and dsDNA-specific IgG. RESULTS While critically ill patients displayed predominantly extrafollicular B cell activation with elevated inflammation, mild patients counteracted the disease through the timely induction of mitochondrial dysfunction in B cells within the first week post symptom onset. Rapidly increased mitochondrial dysfunction, which was caused by infection-induced excessive intracellular calcium accumulation, suppressed excessive extrafollicular responses, leading to increased neutralizing potency index and decreased inflammatory cytokine production. Patients who received prior COVID-19 vaccines before infection displayed significantly decreased extrafollicular B cell responses and mild disease. CONCLUSION Our results reveal an immune mechanism that controls SARS-CoV-2-induced detrimental B cell responses and COVID-19 severity, which may have implications for viral pathogenesis, therapeutic interventions and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Cao
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Department of ImmunologyFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anPeople's Republic of China
- Department of DermatologyTangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anPeople's Republic of China
| | - Li Liu
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Centre for VirologyVaccinology and Therapeutics LimitedHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Kelvin Kai‐Wang To
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Department of ImmunologyFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anPeople's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of MicrobiologyThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Centre for VirologyVaccinology and Therapeutics LimitedHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Chun‐Yu Lim
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Runhong Zhou
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yue Ming
- School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ka‐Yi Kwan
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Sulan Yu
- School of Chinese MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Chun‐Yin Chan
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Biao Zhou
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Haode Huang
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yufei Mo
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Zhenglong Du
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ruomei Gong
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Luk‐Tsz Yat
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ivan Fan‐Ngai Hung
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Anthony Raymond Tam
- Department of MedicineQueen Mary HospitalHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Wing‐Kin To
- Department of PathologyPrincess Margaret HospitalHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Wai‐Shing Leung
- Department of Medicine and GeriatricsPrincess Margaret HospitalHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Thomas Shiu‐Hong Chik
- Department of Medicine and GeriatricsPrincess Margaret HospitalHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Owen Tak‐Yin Tsang
- Department of Medicine and GeriatricsPrincess Margaret HospitalHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Lin
- School of Chinese MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - You‐qiang Song
- School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Kwok‐Yung Yuen
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of MicrobiologyThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Centre for VirologyVaccinology and Therapeutics LimitedHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
| | - Zhiwei Chen
- AIDS Institute, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of MicrobiologyThe University of Hong KongHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
- Centre for VirologyVaccinology and Therapeutics LimitedHong Kong Special Administrative RegionPeople's Republic of China
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16
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Collins AM, Watson CT, Breden F. Immunoglobulin genes, reproductive isolation and vertebrate speciation. Immunol Cell Biol 2022; 100:497-506. [PMID: 35781330 PMCID: PMC9545137 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive isolation drives the formation of new species, and many genes contribute to this through Dobzhansky–Muller incompatibilities (DMIs). These incompatibilities occur when gene divergence affects loci encoding interacting products such as receptors and their ligands. We suggest here that the nature of vertebrate immunoglobulin (IG) genes must make them prone to DMIs. The genes of these complex loci form functional genes through the process of recombination, giving rise to a repertoire of heterodimeric receptors of incredible diversity. This repertoire, within individuals and within species, must defend against pathogens but must also avoid pathogenic self‐reactivity. We suggest that this avoidance of autoimmunity is only achieved through a coordination of evolution between heavy‐ and light‐chain genes, and between these genes and the rest of the genome. Without coordinated evolution, the hybrid offspring of two diverging populations will carry a heavy burden of DMIs, resulting in a loss of fitness. Critical incompatibilities could manifest as incompatibilities between a mother and her divergent offspring. During fetal development, biochemical differences between the parents of hybrid offspring could make their offspring a target of the maternal immune system. This hypothesis was conceived in the light of recent insights into the population genetics of IG genes. This has suggested that antibody genes are probably as susceptible to evolutionary forces as other parts of the genome. Further repertoire studies in human and nonhuman species should now help determine whether antibody genes have been part of the evolutionary forces that drive the development of species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Collins
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences University of New South Wales Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Corey T Watson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics University of Louisville School of Medicine Louisville KY USA
| | - Felix Breden
- Department of Biological Sciences Simon Fraser University Burnaby BC Canada
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17
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Yamada J, Peracchi OA, Terreri MT, de Moraes-Pinto MI. Cell activation, PD-1 expression and in vitro cytokine production in patients with juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2022; 31:1237-1244. [PMID: 35849633 DOI: 10.1177/09612033221112809] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (jSLE) is known to be more severe and with a higher frequency of renal and central nervous system impairment when compared to systemic lupus erythematosus in adults. The study of immunological characteristics of jSLE patients might help to envisage better treatment strategies to reduce the burden of the disease. OBJECTIVE To characterize peripheral lymphocytes, assessing activation markers, and PD-1 expression on T cells; to evaluate in vitro cytokine expression upon stimulation in jSLE patients and age-matched controls. METHODOLOGY Eighteen jSLE patients on low disease activity and 25 matched healthy adolescents were evaluated for immune activation and PD-1 expression on peripheral blood lymphocytes by flow cytometry. Twenty-one cytokines were assessed by X-MAP technology after in vitro stimulation of peripheral blood with phytohemagglutinin. RESULTS jSLE patients had lower numbers of CD4 T, CD8 T, B, and NK cells; higher central memory CD8 T cell percentages were noted in jSLE adolescents in comparison with controls (p = 0.014). B cells subsets showed a higher percentage of exhausted memory subset than controls (p = 0.014). The expression of PD-1 on CD4 T and CD8 T cells did not show relevant changes in jSLE adolescents. After stimulation of peripheral blood, cell supernatant of jSLE patients showed a trend to lower concentrations of IL-10 (p=0.080) and higher concentrations of IL-23 (p = 0.063) than controls. CONCLUSIONS jSLE patients on low disease activity maintain lymphopenia of all subsets, with a B cell profile of exhaustion. Upon in vitro stimulation, peripheral blood cell supernatant showed a shift to IL-23, suggesting a role of inhibitors of this cytokine as another potential therapeutic target for those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Yamada
- Research Laboratory, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, 28105Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Octávio Ab Peracchi
- Unit of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, 28105Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria T Terreri
- Unit of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, 28105Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Isabel de Moraes-Pinto
- Research Laboratory, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, 28105Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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18
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Akama-Garren EH, Carroll MC. T Cell Help in the Autoreactive Germinal Center. Scand J Immunol 2022; 95:e13192. [PMID: 35587582 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The germinal center serves as a site of B cell selection and affinity maturation, critical processes for productive adaptive immunity. In autoimmune disease tolerance is broken in the germinal center reaction, leading to production of autoreactive B cells that may propagate disease. Follicular T cells are crucial regulators of this process, providing signals necessary for B cell survival in the germinal center. Here we review the emerging roles of follicular T cells in the autoreactive germinal center. Recent advances in immunological techniques have allowed study of the gene expression profiles and repertoire of follicular T cells at unprecedented resolution. These studies provide insight into the potential role follicular T cells play in preventing or facilitating germinal center loss of tolerance. Improved understanding of the mechanisms of T cell help in autoreactive germinal centers provides novel therapeutic targets for diseases of germinal center dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot H Akama-Garren
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael C Carroll
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Liu YW, Fu SH, Chien MW, Hsu CY, Lin MH, Dong JL, Lu RJH, Lee YJ, Chen PY, Wang CH, Sytwu HK. Blimp-1 moulds the epigenetic architecture of IL-21-mediated autoimmune diseases through an autoregulatory circuit. JCI Insight 2022; 7:151614. [PMID: 35503415 PMCID: PMC9220827 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.151614] [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: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Positive regulatory domain 1 (PRDM1) encodes B lymphocyte–induced maturation protein 1 (BLIMP1), also known as a master regulator of T cell homeostasis. We observed a negative relationship between Blimp-1 and IL-21 based on our previous data that Blimp-1 overexpression in T cells suppresses autoimmune diabetes while Blimp-1–deficient T cells contribute to colitis in NOD mice. Reanalysis of published data sets also revealed an inverse correlation between PRDM1 and IL21 in Crohn’s disease. Here, we illustrate that Blimp-1 repressed IL-21 by reducing chromatin accessibility and evicting an IL-21 activator, c-Maf, from the Il21 promoter. Moreover, Blimp-1 overexpression–mediated reduction in permissive chromatin structures at the Il21 promoter could override IL-21–accelerated autoimmune diabetogenesis in small ubiquitin-like modifier–defective c-Maf–transgenic mice. An autoregulatory feedback loop to harness IL-21 expression was unveiled by the evidence that IL-21 addition induced time-dependent Blimp-1 expression and subsequently enriched its binding to the Il21 promoter to suppress IL-21 overproduction. Furthermore, intervention of this feedback loop by IL-21 blockade, with IL-21R.Fc administration or IL-21 receptor deletion, attenuated Blimp-1 deficiency–mediated colitis and reinforced the circuit between Blimp-1 and IL-21 in the regulation of autoimmunity. We highlight the translation of Blimp-1–based epigenetic and transcriptomic profiles applicable to a personalized medicine approach in autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Wen Liu
- Molecular Cell Biology, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Huei Fu
- National Institute of Infectious Disease and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Wei Chien
- National Institute of Infectious Disease and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Yuan Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hong Lin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Ling Dong
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Rita Jui-Hsien Lu
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jing Lee
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Yang Chen
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hung Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Huey-Kang Sytwu
- National Institute of Infectious Disease and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
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20
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Wang Y, Guo H, Liang Z, Feng M, Wu Y, Qin Y, Zhao X, Gao C, Liu G, Luo J. Sirolimus therapy restores the PD-1+ICOS+Tfh:CD45RA-Foxp3 high activated Tfr cell balance in primary Sjögren's syndrome. Mol Immunol 2022; 147:90-100. [PMID: 35523039 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a common chronic autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of salivary and lacrimal glands. The current study was performed to investigate the roles of follicular helper T (Tfh) and follicular regulatory T (Tfr) subsets in patients with pSS, and to evaluate the effects of sirolimus on these cells. METHODS Levels of circulating Tfh and Tfr subsets in 58 pSS patients and 26 healthy controls (HC) were determined by flow cytometry. These T cell subsets were also analyzed in 12 patients before and after treatment with sirolimus. Clinical features and correlations with follicular T cells were analyzed systematically. The discriminative ability of the cells and ratios was evaluated based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves. RESULTS Patients with pSS had higher percentage and absolute number of PD-1+ICOS+Tfh cells, while lower percentage and absolute number of Tfr, activated regulatory T (aTreg) cells, and CD45RA-Foxp3high activated Tfr cells. Furthermore, increased number of PD-1+ICOS+Tfh cells was associated with B cells, while decreased numbers of Tfr and their subsets was strongly associated with aTreg cells in pSS patients. Also, the higher proportion of PD-1+ICOS+Tfh cells was positively correlated with higher level of autoantibodies, ESR, IgG, cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IL-17, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-21 and sIL-2αR), and disease activity. Unexpectedly, the elevated PD-1+ICOS+Tfh:CD45RA-Foxp3high activated Tfr ratio had the greatest ability to discriminate between pSS and HC, and sirolimus therapy restored the PD-1+ICOS+Tfh cells:CD45RA-Foxp3high activated Tfr ratio, and controlled disease activity. CONCLUSION The novel ratio of PD-1+ICOS+Tfh to CD45RA-Foxp3high activated Tfr cells can effectively discriminate the pSS patients from controls, and Tfr cell subsets may resemble Treg cell lineages. Furthermore, the PD-1+ICOS+Tfh cells can be used as a biomarker of disease activity and to verify the therapeutic effects of sirolimus in pSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlin Wang
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Hui Guo
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Shenzhen Baoan Shiyan People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518005, China
| | - Zhaojun Liang
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Min Feng
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Yanyao Wu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Yan Qin
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Xiangcong Zhao
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Chong Gao
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Guangying Liu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, China.
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21
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T cell dysregulation in SLE. Clin Immunol 2022; 239:109031. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2022.109031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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22
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Singh RP, Hahn BH, Bischoff DS. Identification and Contribution of Inflammation-Induced Novel MicroRNA in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Front Immunol 2022; 13:848149. [PMID: 35444657 PMCID: PMC9013931 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.848149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently microRNAs (miRNAs) have been recognized as powerful regulators of many genes and pathways involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). SLE is an autoimmune disease characterized by production of various autoantibodies, inflammatory immune cells, and dysregulation of epigenetic changes. Several candidate miRNAs regulating inflammation and autoimmunity in SLE are described. In this study, we found significant increases in the expression of miR21, miR25, and miR186 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of SLE patients compared to healthy controls. However, miR146a was significantly decreased in SLE patients compared to healthy controls and was negatively correlated with plasma estradiol levels and with SLE disease activity scores (SLEDAI). We also found that protein levels of IL-12 and IL-21 were significantly increased in SLE patients as compared to healthy controls. Further, our data shows that protein levels of IL-12 were positively correlated with miR21 expression and protein levels of IL-21 positively correlated with miR25 and miR186 expression in SLE patients. In addition, we found that levels of miR21, miR25, and miR186 positively correlated with SLEDAI and miR146a was negatively correlated in SLE patients. Thus, our data shows a dynamic interplay between disease pathogenesis and miRNA expression. This study has translational potential and may identify novel therapeutic targets in patients with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram P Singh
- Research Service, Veteran Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Division of Rheumatology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Bevra H Hahn
- Division of Rheumatology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - David S Bischoff
- Research Service, Veteran Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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23
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Kolukisa B, Baser D, Akcam B, Danielson J, Eltan SB, Haliloglu Y, Sefer AP, Babayeva R, Akgun G, Charbonnier LM, Schmitz-Abe K, Demirkol YK, Zhang Y, Gonzaga-Jauregui C, Heredia RJ, Kasap N, Kiykim A, Yucel EO, Gok V, Unal E, Kisaarslan AP, Nepesov S, Baysoy G, Onal Z, Yesil G, Celkan TT, Cokugras H, Camcioglu Y, Eken A, Boztug K, Lo B, Karakoc-Aydiner E, Su HC, Ozen A, Chatila TA, Baris S. Evolution and long-term outcomes of combined immunodeficiency due to CARMIL2 deficiency. Allergy 2022; 77:1004-1019. [PMID: 34287962 PMCID: PMC9976932 DOI: 10.1111/all.15010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biallelic loss-of-function mutations in CARMIL2 cause combined immunodeficiency associated with dermatitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and EBV-related smooth muscle tumors. Clinical and immunological characterizations of the disease with long-term follow-up and treatment options have not been previously reported in large cohorts. We sought to determine the clinical and immunological features of CARMIL2 deficiency and long-term efficacy of treatment in controlling different disease manifestations. METHODS The presenting phenotypes, long-term outcomes, and treatment responses were evaluated prospectively in 15 CARMIL2-deficient patients, including 13 novel cases. Lymphocyte subpopulations, protein expression, regulatory T (Treg), and circulating T follicular helper (cTFH ) cells were analyzed. Three-dimensional (3D) migration assay was performed to determine T-cell shape. RESULTS Mean age at disease onset was 38 ± 23 months. Main clinical features were skin manifestations (n = 14, 93%), failure to thrive (n = 10, 67%), recurrent infections (n = 10, 67%), allergic symptoms (n = 8, 53%), chronic diarrhea (n = 4, 27%), and EBV-related leiomyoma (n = 2, 13%). Skin manifestations ranged from atopic and seborrheic dermatitis to psoriasiform rash. Patients had reduced proportions of memory CD4+ T cells, Treg, and cTFH cells. Memory B and NK cells were also decreased. CARMIL2-deficient T cells exhibited reduced T-cell proliferation and cytokine production following CD28 co-stimulation and normal morphology when migrating in a high-density 3D collagen gel matrix. IBD was the most severe clinical manifestation, leading to growth retardation, requiring multiple interventional treatments. All patients were alive with a median follow-up of 10.8 years (range: 3-17 years). CONCLUSION This cohort provides clinical and immunological features and long-term follow-up of different manifestations of CARMIL2 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Kolukisa
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Dilek Baser
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Bengu Akcam
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Jeffrey Danielson
- Human Immunological Diseases Section, Laboratory of
Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA,Clinical Genomics Program, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD,
USA
| | - Sevgi Bilgic Eltan
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Yesim Haliloglu
- Erciyes University School of Medicine, Department of
Medical Biology, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Asena Pinar Sefer
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Royale Babayeva
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Gamze Akgun
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Louis-Marie Charbonnier
- Boston Children’s Hospital and Department of
Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Division of Immunology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Klaus Schmitz-Abe
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Division of Immunology
and Newborn Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yasemin Kendir Demirkol
- Genomic Laboratory (GLAB), Umraniye Teaching and Research
Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yu Zhang
- Human Immunological Diseases Section, Laboratory of
Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA,Clinical Genomics Program, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD,
USA
| | | | - Raul Jimenez Heredia
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed
Diseases, Vienna, Austria,St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute
(CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Nurhan Kasap
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Ayca Kiykim
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Medicine,
Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Ozek Yucel
- Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine,
Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Veysel Gok
- Erciyes University School of Medicine, Pediatric
Hematology and Oncology, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ekrem Unal
- Erciyes University School of Medicine, Pediatric
Hematology and Oncology, Kayseri, Turkey
| | | | - Serdar Nepesov
- Medipol University Medical Faculty, Department of
Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gokhan Baysoy
- Medipol University Medical Faculty, Department of
Pediatric Gastroenterology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zerrin Onal
- Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine,
Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Istanbul,
Turkey
| | - Gozde Yesil
- Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine,
Department of Medical Genetics, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tulin Tiraje Celkan
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Medicine,
Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Haluk Cokugras
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Medicine,
Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yildiz Camcioglu
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Medicine,
Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Eken
- Erciyes University School of Medicine, Department of
Medical Biology, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Kaan Boztug
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed
Diseases, Vienna, Austria,St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute
(CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernice Lo
- Sidra Medicine, Research Branch, Division of
Translational Medicine, Doha, Qatar,College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa
University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Elif Karakoc-Aydiner
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Helen C. Su
- Human Immunological Diseases Section, Laboratory of
Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA,Clinical Genomics Program, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD,
USA
| | - Ahmet Ozen
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
| | - Talal A. Chatila
- Boston Children’s Hospital and Department of
Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Division of Immunology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Safa Baris
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey,Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for
Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey,The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational
Medicine
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24
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Gowthaman U, Sikder S, Lee D, Fisher C. T follicular helper cells in IgE-mediated pathologies. Curr Opin Immunol 2022; 74:133-139. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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25
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Hashemi S, Habibagahi Z, Heidari M, Abdollahpour-Alitappeh M, Karimi MH. Effects of combined aerobic and anaerobic exercise training on cytokine profiles in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); a randomized controlled trial. Transpl Immunol 2021; 70:101516. [PMID: 34922023 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2021.101516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an inflammatory rheumatic disease characterized by production of autoantibodies and organ damage. Elevated levels of cytokines have been reported in SLE patients. Physical activity could be considered one of the factors that affect the immune system status and function. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of an 8-week supervised aerobic and anaerobic training program on the immune system of SLE patients through evaluation of serum cytokine levels. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 24 SLE patients selected between September 2015 and March 2016. The patients were randomly divided into two groups, including exercise (n = 14) and control (n = 10) groups. The exercise group participated in an 8-week combined supervised exercise training program consisting of three times per week in 60-min exercise sessions. After collection of whole peripheral blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from the blood samples. Following RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, the expression levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-21, and IL-22 were determined using in-house SYBER Green-based real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Lastly, the data obtained were analyzed using t-test. RESULTS The mean and standard deviation of age were 29.00 ± 3.19 and 21.50 ± 5.52 in the intervention and control groups, respectively. No significant differences were found among the mean serum levels of IFN-γ, IL6, IL-9, IL-17A, IL-17F and IL-21 among SLE patients in the intervention and control groups. The mean serum levels of TNF-α, IL2, IL-4, and IL-5 decreased significantly in the intervention as compared with the control group. The mean serum levels of IL-10, IL-13 and IL-22 significantly increased in the control group after eight weeks, as compared with the intervention group. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicated that the 8-week supervised aerobic and anaerobic training program could result in decreased inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Hashemi
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Habibagahi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Mojdeh Heidari
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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26
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Singh RP, Hahn BH, Bischoff DS. Interferon Genes Are Influenced by 17β-Estradiol in SLE. Front Immunol 2021; 12:725325. [PMID: 34733276 PMCID: PMC8558410 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.725325] [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: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests the existence of a nexus between inflammatory pathways and the female sex hormone 17β-estradiol, resulting in increased interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), autoantibodies, and dysregulation of immune cells in SLE. However, the molecular mechanisms and the effect of estradiol on candidate target genes and their pathways remains poorly understood. Our previous work suggests that female SLE patients have increased estradiol levels compared to healthy controls. In the present study, we explored the effects of 17β-estradiol treatment on expression of IFN (interferons)-stimulated genes and pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines. We found significantly increased (5-10-fold) expression of IFN-regulated genes in healthy females. Furthermore, we found significantly increased plasma levels of IL-6, IL-12, IL-17, IL-18, stem cell factor (SCF), and IL-21/IL-23 in SLE patients compared to healthy controls, and those levels positively correlated with the plasma levels of 17β-estradiol. In addition, levels of IL-21 positively correlated with the SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) score of SLE patients. In vitro treatment of PBMCs from either SLE patients or healthy controls with 17β-estradiol at physiological concentration (~50 pg/ml) also significantly increased secretion of many pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines (IL-6, IL-12, IL-17, IL-8, IFN-γ; MIP1α, and MIP1β) in both groups. Further our data revealed that 17β-estradiol significantly increased the percentage of CD3+CD69+ and CD3+IFNγ+ T cells; whereas, simultaneous addition of 17β-estradiol and an ERα inhibitor prevented this effect. Collectively, our findings indicate that 17β-estradiol participates in the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and further influences interferon genes and pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram P Singh
- Research Service, Veteran Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Bevra H Hahn
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - David S Bischoff
- Research Service, Veteran Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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27
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Nakayamada S, Tanaka Y. Clinical relevance of T follicular helper cells in systemic lupus erythematosus. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2021; 17:1143-1150. [PMID: 34469695 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.1976146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION T helper cells regulate a variety of immune responses and are involved in the pathogenesis of infection, allergy and autoimmune diseases. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, which induce B cell maturation, play an important role in the production of the extremely diverse autoantibodies found in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). AREA COVERED We provide an overview of the plasticity and diversity of Tfh cells in humans and their involvement in the pathology and pathogenesis of SLE. Our review outlines the potential of Tfh cells as a therapeutic target for SLE. EXPERT OPINION Tfh cells are involved in the pathogenesis of SLE based on their plasticity and diversity. Tfh cell differentiation and function are variably regulated by cytokines (IL-12, interferons, IL-2, etc), co-stimulatory molecules (ICOS, CD40L, OX40, etc), and intracellular signals (JAK-STAT, etc). Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying Tfh cell differentiation and function may lead to the development of new therapies for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Nakayamada
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Tanaka
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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28
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Baker M, Chaichian Y, Genovese M, Derebail V, Rao P, Chatham W, Bubb M, Lim S, Hajian H, Gurtovaya O, Patel U, Tumlin J. Phase II, randomised, double-blind, multicentre study evaluating the safety and efficacy of filgotinib and lanraplenib in patients with lupus membranous nephropathy. RMD Open 2021; 6:rmdopen-2020-001490. [PMID: 33380521 PMCID: PMC7780527 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2020-001490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Patients with lupus membranous nephropathy (LMN) are at risk for prolonged proteinuria and progressive chronic kidney disease. There are no proven effective treatments for LMN, and controlled trials are lacking. This trial assessed the preferential Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) inhibitor filgotinib and the spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor lanraplenib in patients with LMN. Methods This was a phase II, randomised, double-blind trial conducted at 15 centres in the USA to evaluate the safety and efficacy of filgotinib or lanraplenib for the treatment of LMN. Eligible patients were randomised 1:1 to receive either filgotinib or lanraplenib in a blinded fashion for up to 52 weeks. The primary endpoint was the per cent change in 24-hour urine protein from baseline to week 16. Results Nine patients were randomised to receive filgotinib (n=5) or lanraplenib (n=4). Four patients in the filgotinib group and one patient in the lanraplenib group completed week 16. There was a median reduction of 50.7% in 24-hour urine protein after 16 weeks of treatment with filgotinib (n=4), and the median Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index from the Safety of Estrogens in Lupus National Assessment score remained stable. Filgotinib treatment was well tolerated. Limited conclusions can be drawn about treatment with lanraplenib. Conclusion The number of patients treated in this study was small, and only limited conclusions can be drawn. There may be a therapeutic benefit with filgotinib treatment, which may support future investigations with filgotinib or other JAK inhibitors in patients with LMN. Trial registration number NCT03285711.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Baker
- Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Yashaar Chaichian
- Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Mark Genovese
- Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Gilead Sciences, Foster City, California, USA
| | - Vimal Derebail
- Nephrology and Hypertension, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Panduranga Rao
- Nephrology, University of Michigan Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Winn Chatham
- Rheumatology, UAB Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Michael Bubb
- Rheumatology, University of Florida Health, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,Rheumatology, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Sam Lim
- Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | - Uptal Patel
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, California, USA
| | - James Tumlin
- Nephrology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine Chattanooga, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
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29
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Ren HM, Lukacher AE, Rahman ZSM, Olsen NJ. New developments implicating IL-21 in autoimmune disease. J Autoimmun 2021; 122:102689. [PMID: 34224936 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2021.102689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Elevated interleukin (IL)-21 is a common finding in the tissues and/or sera of patients with autoimmune disease. CD4 T cells are the primary producers of IL-21; often the IL-21 producing CD4 T cells will express molecules associated with follicular helper cells (TFH). Recent work has shown that the CD4 T cell-derived IL-21 is able to promote effector functions and memory differentiation of CD8 T cells in chronic infections and cancer. Autoimmunity has similarities to chronic infections and cancer. However, CD4 T cell-derived IL-21:IL21R signaling in CD8 T cells has not been fully appreciated in the context of autoimmunity. In this review, we assess the current knowledge regarding CD4 T cell-derived IL-21 and IL21R signaling within CD8 T cells and evaluate what implications it has within several autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematous, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, psoriasis, Sjögren's syndrome, vitiligo, antiphospholipid syndrome, pemphigus, and giant cell arteritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather M Ren
- MD/PhD Medical Scientist Training Program at Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
| | - Aron E Lukacher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Ziaur S M Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Nancy J Olsen
- Devision of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Penn State MS Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
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30
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Papillion A, Ballesteros-Tato A. The Potential of Harnessing IL-2-Mediated Immunosuppression to Prevent Pathogenic B Cell Responses. Front Immunol 2021; 12:667342. [PMID: 33986755 PMCID: PMC8112607 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.667342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunosuppressive drugs can partially control Antibody (Ab)-dependent pathology. However, these therapeutic regimens must be maintained for the patient's lifetime, which is often associated with severe side effects. As research advances, our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the development and maintenance of auto-reactive B cell responses has significantly advanced. As a result, novel immunotherapies aimed to restore immune tolerance and prevent disease progression in autoimmune patients are underway. In this regard, encouraging results from clinical and preclinical studies demonstrate that subcutaneous administration of low-doses of recombinant Interleukin-2 (r-IL2) has potent immunosuppressive effects in patients with autoimmune pathologies. Although the exact mechanism by which IL-2 induces immunosuppression remains unclear, the clinical benefits of the current IL-2-based immunotherapies are attributed to its effect on bolstering T regulatory (Treg) cells, which are known to suppress overactive immune responses. In addition to Tregs, however, rIL-2 also directly prevent the T follicular helper cells (Tfh), T helper 17 cells (Th17), and Double Negative (DN) T cell responses, which play critical roles in the development of autoimmune disorders and have the ability to help pathogenic B cells. Here we discuss the broader effects of rIL-2 immunotherapy and the potential of combining rIL-2 with other cytokine-based therapies to more efficiently target Tfh cells, Th17, and DN T cells and subsequently inhibit auto-antibody (ab) production in autoimmune patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - André Ballesteros-Tato
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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31
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Niu W, Xu Y, Zha X, Zeng J, Qiao S, Yang S, Zhang H, Tan L, Sun L, Pang G, Liu T, Zhao H, Zheng N, Zhang Y, Bai H. IL-21/IL-21R Signaling Aggravated Respiratory Inflammation Induced by Intracellular Bacteria through Regulation of CD4 + T Cell Subset Responses. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 206:1586-1596. [PMID: 33608454 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2001107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The IL-21/IL-21R interaction plays an important role in a variety of immune diseases; however, the roles and mechanisms in intracellular bacterial infection are not fully understood. In this study, we explored the effect of IL-21/IL-21R on chlamydial respiratory tract infection using a chlamydial respiratory infection model. The results showed that the mRNA expression of IL-21 and IL-21R was increased in Chlamydia muridarum-infected mice, which suggested that IL-21 and IL-21R were involved in host defense against C. muridarum lung infection. IL-21R-/- mice exhibited less body weight loss, a lower bacterial burden, and milder pathological changes in the lungs than wild-type (WT) mice during C. muridarum lung infection. The absolute number and activity of CD4+ T cells and the strength of Th1/Th17 responses in IL-21R-/- mice were significantly higher than those in WT mice after C. muridarum lung infection, but the Th2 response was weaker. Consistently, IL-21R-/- mice showed higher mRNA expression of Th1 transcription factors (T-bet/STAT4), IL-12p40, a Th17 transcription factor (STAT3), and IL-23. The mRNA expression of Th2 transcription factors (GATA3/STAT6), IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β in IL-21R-/- mice was significantly lower than that in WT mice. Furthermore, the administration of recombinant mouse IL-21 aggravated chlamydial lung infection in C57BL/6 mice and reduced Th1 and Th17 responses following C. muridarum lung infection. These findings demonstrate that IL-21/IL-21R may aggravate chlamydial lung infection by inhibiting Th1 and Th17 responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Niu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueyue Xu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Zha
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiajia Zeng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Sai Qiao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuaini Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Tan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Lida Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaoju Pang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Tengli Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Huili Zhao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Ningbo Zheng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongci Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Bai
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
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Prolactin Increases the Frequency of Follicular T Helper Cells with Enhanced IL21 Secretion and OX40 Expression in Lupus-Prone MRL/lpr Mice. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:6630715. [PMID: 33763492 PMCID: PMC7963914 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6630715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus is characterized by high levels of IgG class autoantibodies that contribute to the pathophysiology of the disease. The formation of these autoantibodies occurs in the germinal centers, where there is cooperation between follicular T helper cells (TFH) and autoreactive B cells. Prolactin has been reported to exacerbate the clinical manifestations of lupus by increasing autoantibody concentrations. The objective of this study was to characterize the participation of prolactin in the differentiation and activation of TFH cells, by performing in vivo and in vitro tests with lupus-prone mice, using flow cytometry and real-time PCR. We found that TFH cells express the long isoform of the prolactin receptor and promoted STAT3 phosphorylation. Receptor expression was higher in MRL/lpr mice and correlative with the manifestations of the disease. Although prolactin does not intervene in the differentiation of TFH cells, it does favor their activation by increasing the percentage of TFH OX40+ and TFH IL21+ cells, as well as leading to high serum concentrations of IL21. These results support a mechanism in which prolactin participates in the emergence of lupus by inducing overactive TFH cells and perhaps promoting dysfunctional germinal centers.
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B Cell Aberrance in Lupus: the Ringleader and the Solution. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2021; 62:301-323. [PMID: 33534064 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-020-08820-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypical autoimmune disease with high heterogeneity but the common characterization of numerous autoantibodies and systemic inflammation which lead to the damage of multiple organs. Aberrance of B cells plays a pivotal role in the immunopathogenesis of SLE via both antibody-dependent and antibody-independent manners. Escape of autoreactive B cells from the central and peripheral tolerance checkpoints, over-activation of B cells and their excessive cytokines release which drive T cells and dendritic cells stimulation, and dysregulated surface molecules, as well as intracellular signal pathways involved in B cell biology, are all contributing to B cell aberrance and participating in the pathogenesis of SLE. Based on that rationale, targeting aberrance of B cells and relevant molecules and pathways is expected to be a promising strategy for lupus control. Multiple approaches targeting B cells through different mechanisms have been attempted, including B-cell depletion via monoclonal antibodies against B-cell-specific molecules, blockade of B-cell survival and activation factors, suppressing T-B crosstalk by interrupting costimulatory molecules and inhibiting intracellular activation signaling cascade by targeting pathway molecules in B cells. Though most attempts ended in failure, the efficacy of B-cell targeting has been encouraged by the FDA approval of belimumab that blocks B cell-activating factor (BAFF) and the recommended use of anti-CD20 as a remedial therapy in refractory lupus. Still, quantities of clinical trials targeting B cells or relevant molecules are ongoing and some of them have displayed promising preliminary results. Additionally, advances in multi-omics studies help deepen our understandings of B cell biology in lupus and may promote the discovery of novel potential therapeutic targets. The combination of real-world data with basic research achievements may pave the road to conquering lupus.
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34
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Shen L, Matloubian M, Kadlecek TA, Weiss A. A disease-associated mutation that weakens ZAP70 autoinhibition enhances responses to weak and self-ligands. Sci Signal 2021; 14:14/668/eabc4479. [PMID: 33531381 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abc4479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The cytoplasmic kinase ZAP70 is critical for T cell antigen receptor (TCR) signaling. The R360P mutation in ZAP70 is responsible for an early-onset familial autoimmune syndrome. The structural location and biochemical signaling effects of the R360P mutation are consistent with weakening of the autoinhibitory conformation of ZAP70. Mice with a ZAP70 R360P mutation and polyclonal TCR repertoires exhibited relatively normal T cell development but showed evidence of increased signaling. In addition, the R360P mutation resulted in enhanced follicular helper T cell expansion after LCMV infection. To eliminate the possibility of a TCR repertoire shift, the OTI transgenic TCR was introduced into R360P mice, which resulted in enhanced T cell responses to weaker stimuli, including weak agonists and a self-peptide. These observations suggest that disruption of ZAP70 autoinhibition by the R360P mutation enables increased mature T cell sensitivity to self-antigens that would normally be ignored by wild-type T cells, a mechanism that may contribute to the break of tolerance in human patients with R360P mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Shen
- Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Rheumatology Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Mehrdad Matloubian
- Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Rheumatology Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Theresa A Kadlecek
- Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Rheumatology Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Arthur Weiss
- Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Rheumatology Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA. .,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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35
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Chen PM, Tsokos GC. T Cell Abnormalities in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: an Update. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2021; 23:12. [PMID: 33512577 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-020-00978-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Systemic lupus erythematosus is a complex disease with broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. In addition to abnormal B cell responsive leading to autoantibody production, various T cells also play different roles in promoting systemic autoimmunity and end organ damage. We aim to provide a review on recent developments in how abnormalities in different T cells subsets contribute to systemic lupus erythematosus pathogenesis and how they inform the consideration of new promising therapeutics. RECENT FINDINGS Distinct subsets of T cells known as T follicular helper cells enable the production of pathogenic autoantibodies. Detailed understanding of the B cell helping T cell subsets should improve the performance of clinical trials targeting the cognate T:B cell interaction. CD8+ T cells play a role in peripheral tolerance and reversal of its exhausted phenotype could potentially alleviate both systemic autoimmunity and the risk of infection. Research on the abnormal lupus T cell signaling also leads to putative therapeutic targets able to restore interleukin-2 production and suppress the production of the pathogenic IL-17 cytokine. Recently, several studies have focused on dissecting T cell populations located in the damaged organs, aiming to target the pathogenic processes specific to each organ. Numerous T cell subsets play distinct roles in SLE pathogenesis and recent research in understanding abnormal signaling pathways, cellular metabolism, and environmental cues pave the way for the development of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Min Chen
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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36
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Klavdianou K, Lazarini A, Fanouriakis A. Targeted Biologic Therapy for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Emerging Pathways and Drug Pipeline. BioDrugs 2021; 34:133-147. [PMID: 32002918 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-020-00405-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Following the approval of belimumab, the first drug to be approved for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in over 50 years, advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease have led to a remarkable number of clinical trials for investigational drugs, each with a unique mechanism of action. These include, but are not limited to, antibodies targeting B or T cells or their interaction, dendritic cells, interferon, and other cytokines. Frustratingly, this boost of studies has not been accompanied by a corresponding success and subsequent approval of novel agents, for reasons only partly attributed to the efficacy of the drugs per se. Successful phase II trials are often followed by failed phase III studies, which typically require many more patients. Nevertheless, recent successes, such as the ustekinumab and baricitinib trials and the positive results from the phase III TULIP-2 study of anifrolumab, provide room for cautious optimism. In this review, we attempt to draw the current landscape of the drug pipeline in SLE, focusing on the rationale behind each drug development, its mechanism of action, and the available preclinical and clinical data. We also highlight lessons learned from failed attempts that have helped to optimize clinical trial design for this challenging disease. We conclude with a look into the future, commenting on the surge of studies in the field of biomarkers and the use of omics technologies in lupus, which aim to pinpoint different disease phenotypes and, ideally, identify subsets of patients with disease that will respond to different biologic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Klavdianou
- Department of Rheumatology, "Asklepieion" General Hospital, 1 Vasileos Pavlou Str., Voula, 16673, Athens, Greece
| | - Argyro Lazarini
- Department of Rheumatology, "Asklepieion" General Hospital, 1 Vasileos Pavlou Str., Voula, 16673, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonis Fanouriakis
- Department of Rheumatology, "Asklepieion" General Hospital, 1 Vasileos Pavlou Str., Voula, 16673, Athens, Greece.
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 4th Department of Internal Medicine, "Attikon" University Hospital, Athens, Greece.
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37
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Elevated serum IL-21 levels are associated with stable immune status in kidney transplant recipients and a mouse model of kidney transplantation. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:18396-18414. [PMID: 32991326 PMCID: PMC7585127 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Allograft rejection after renal transplantation remains a challenge to overcome. Interleukin (IL)-21, a cytokine with pleiotropic effects, maintains immune homeostasis post-transplantation. Here, we report higher levels of IL-21 in kidney transplant recipients with non-rejection (NR) than in recipients with T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR, P < 0.001) and antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR, P = 0.005). We observed a negative correlation between IL-21 and creatinine (Cr) levels (P = 0.016). The receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed a promising diagnostic value of IL-21 to identify acute rejection with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.822 (P < 0.001). In contrast, exogenous administration of IL-21 accelerated acute rejection in a comparative translational kidney transplant (KT) mouse model. Reduced IL-21 levels in the peripheral blood were observed in KT mice after IL-21 injection. Further analysis revealed that increased IL-21 levels in the spleen induced proliferation of CD4+ T cells and CD19+ B cells after IL-21 treatment. Our findings suggest a critical function of IL-21 in kidney transplantation and the potential involvement of the IL-21/IL-21R pathway in acute rejection management.
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38
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Olson WJ, Jakic B, Labi V, Schoeler K, Kind M, Klepsch V, Baier G, Hermann-Kleiter N. Orphan Nuclear Receptor NR2F6 Suppresses T Follicular Helper Cell Accumulation through Regulation of IL-21. Cell Rep 2020; 28:2878-2891.e5. [PMID: 31509749 PMCID: PMC6791812 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CD4 T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are specialized in helping B cells during the germinal center (GC) reaction and ultimately promote long-term humoral immunity. Here we report that loss of the nuclear orphan receptor NR2F6 causes enhanced survival and accumulation of Tfh cells, GC B cells, and plasma cells (PCs) following T cell-dependent immunization. Nr2f6-deficient CD4 T cell dysfunction is the primary cause of cell accumulation. Cytokine expression in Nr2f6-deficient Tfh cells is dysregulated, and Il21 expression is enhanced. Mechanistically, NR2F6 binds directly to the interleukin 21 (IL-21) promoter and a conserved noncoding sequence (CNS) near the Il21 gene in resting CD4+ T cells. During Tfh cell differentiation, this direct NR2F6 DNA interaction is abolished. Enhanced Tfh cell accumulation in Nr2f6-deficient mice can be reverted by blocking IL-21R signaling. Thus, NR2F6 is a critical negative regulator of IL-21 cytokine production in Tfh cells and prevents excessive Tfh cell accumulation. Loss of NR2F6 results in accumulation of Tfh, GC B, and plasma cells after immunization Increased GC populations depend on Nr2f6 loss within the CD4 compartment NR2F6 directly binds to several sites within the Il21 promoter and CNS −36 NR2F6 restrains Il21 expression in CD4 cells; IL-21R blockade reduces Tfh accumulation
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Olson
- Institute of Cell Genetics, Department for Genetics and Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter Mayr Str. 1a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Bojana Jakic
- Institute of Cell Genetics, Department for Genetics and Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter Mayr Str. 1a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Verena Labi
- Division of Developmental Immunology, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Innrain 80, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Katia Schoeler
- Division of Developmental Immunology, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Innrain 80, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michaela Kind
- Institute of Cell Genetics, Department for Genetics and Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter Mayr Str. 1a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Victoria Klepsch
- Institute of Cell Genetics, Department for Genetics and Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter Mayr Str. 1a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gottfried Baier
- Institute of Cell Genetics, Department for Genetics and Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter Mayr Str. 1a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Natascha Hermann-Kleiter
- Institute of Cell Genetics, Department for Genetics and Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter Mayr Str. 1a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
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39
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Tangye SG, Ma CS. Regulation of the germinal center and humoral immunity by interleukin-21. J Exp Med 2020; 217:132621. [PMID: 31821441 PMCID: PMC7037251 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20191638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we review the critical and non-redundant functions of IL-21 in regulating humoral immune responses. We particularly focus on studies in natura—from individuals from inborn errors of immunity that impact on IL-21 production and/or function. Cytokines play critical roles in regulating the development, survival, differentiation, and function of immune cells. Cytokines exert their function by binding specific receptor complexes on the surface of immune cells and activating intracellular signaling pathways, thereby resulting in induction of specific transcription factors and regulated expression of target genes. While the function of cytokines is often fundamental for the generation of robust and effective immunity following infection or vaccination, aberrant production or function of cytokines can underpin immunopathology. IL-21 is a pleiotropic cytokine produced predominantly by CD4+ T cells. Gene-targeting studies in mice, in vitro analyses of human and murine lymphocytes, and the recent discoveries and analyses of humans with germline loss-of-function mutations in IL21 or IL21R have revealed diverse roles of IL-21 in immune regulation and effector function. This review will focus on recent advances in IL-21 biology that have highlighted its critical role in T cell–dependent B cell activation, germinal center reactions, and humoral immunity and how impaired responses to, or production of, IL-21 can lead to immune dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart G Tangye
- Immunology Theme, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, Darlinghurst, Australia.,Clinical Immunogenomics Consortium of Australasia, Darlinghurst, Australia
| | - Cindy S Ma
- Immunology Theme, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, Darlinghurst, Australia.,Clinical Immunogenomics Consortium of Australasia, Darlinghurst, Australia
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40
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Olson WJ, Jakic B, Hermann‐Kleiter N. Regulation of the germinal center response by nuclear receptors and implications for autoimmune diseases. FEBS J 2020; 287:2866-2890. [PMID: 32246891 PMCID: PMC7497069 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The immune system plays an essential role in protecting the host from infectious diseases and cancer. Notably, B and T lymphocytes from the adaptive arm of the immune system can co-operate to form long-lived antibody responses and are therefore the main target in vaccination approaches. Nevertheless, protective immune responses must be tightly regulated to avoid hyper-responsiveness and responses against self that can result in autoimmunity. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are perfectly adapted to rapidly alter transcriptional cellular responses to altered environmental settings. Their functional role is associated with both immune deficiencies and autoimmunity. Despite extensive linking of nuclear receptor function with specific CD4 T helper subsets, research on the functional roles and mechanisms of specific NRs in CD4 follicular T helper cells (Tfh) and germinal center (GC) B cells during the germinal center reaction is just emerging. We review recent advances in our understanding of NR regulation in specific cell types of the GC response and discuss their implications for autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
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Affiliation(s)
- William J. Olson
- Translational Cell GeneticsDepartment of Pharmacology and GeneticsMedical University of InnsbruckAustria
| | - Bojana Jakic
- Translational Cell GeneticsDepartment of Pharmacology and GeneticsMedical University of InnsbruckAustria
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and PathologyUppsala UniversitySweden
| | - Natascha Hermann‐Kleiter
- Translational Cell GeneticsDepartment of Pharmacology and GeneticsMedical University of InnsbruckAustria
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41
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Gryzik S, Hoang Y, Lischke T, Mohr E, Venzke M, Kadner I, Poetzsch J, Groth D, Radbruch A, Hutloff A, Baumgrass R. Identification of a super-functional Tfh-like subpopulation in murine lupus by pattern perception. eLife 2020; 9:53226. [PMID: 32441253 PMCID: PMC7274784 DOI: 10.7554/elife.53226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulated cytokine expression by T cells plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. However, the identification of the corresponding pathogenic subpopulations is a challenge, since a distinction between physiological variation and a new quality in the expression of protein markers requires combinatorial evaluation. Here, we were able to identify a super-functional follicular helper T cell (Tfh)-like subpopulation in lupus-prone NZBxW mice with our binning approach "pattern recognition of immune cells (PRI)". PRI uncovered a subpopulation of IL-21+ IFN-γhigh PD-1low CD40Lhigh CXCR5- Bcl-6- T cells specifically expanded in diseased mice. In addition, these cells express high levels of TNF-α and IL-2, and provide B cell help for IgG production in an IL-21 and CD40L dependent manner. This super-functional T cell subset might be a superior driver of autoimmune processes due to a polyfunctional and high cytokine expression combined with Tfh-like properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Gryzik
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yen Hoang
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany.,University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Timo Lischke
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elodie Mohr
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Melanie Venzke
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabelle Kadner
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany.,University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Josephine Poetzsch
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany.,University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Radbruch
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany.,Charité, Campus Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Hutloff
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ria Baumgrass
- German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), A Leibniz Institute, Berlin, Germany.,University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
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42
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Saitoh SI, Saitoh YM, Kontani K, Sato K, Miyake K. ADP-ribosylation factor-like 8b is required for the development of mouse models of systemic lupus erythematosus. Int Immunol 2020; 31:225-237. [PMID: 30753473 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxy084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) and type I interferons (IFN-1) are essential for the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) models such as BXSB.Yaa and 2,6,10,14-tetramethyl-pentadecane (TMPD)-induced experimental lupus. However, the mechanism underlying the development of SLE remains undefined. We report a requirement for ADP-ribosylation factor-like 8b (Arl8b) for TLR7-dependent IFN-1 production in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). We analyzed whether Arl8b plays a role in two SLE models by comparing wild-type and Arl8b-deficient Arl8b GeneTrap (Arl8bGt/Gt) mice. We found that BXSB.Yaa Arl8bGt/Gt mice showed none of the abnormalities characterized in BXSB.Yaa mice. TMPD treatment of Arl8bGt/Gt mice significantly inhibited the development of SLE. pDCs were required for TMPD-induced peritonitis. Our data demonstrate that Arl8b contributes to disease pathogenesis in two SLE models via IFN-1-dependent and -independent mechanisms and suggest that Arl8b is an attractive new target for therapeutic intervention in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Ichiroh Saitoh
- Division of Innate Immunity, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minatoku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Mori Saitoh
- Division of Innate Immunity, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minatoku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Kontani
- Department of Biochemistry, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuaki Sato
- Division of Immunology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan.,Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED), Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kensuke Miyake
- Division of Innate Immunity, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minatoku, Tokyo, Japan.,Laboratory of Innate Immunity, Center for Experimental Medicine and Systems Biology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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43
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Zhu J, Hay AN, Potter AA, Richwine MW, Sproule T, LeRoith T, Wilson J, Hasham MG, Roopenian DC, Leeth CM. Abrogated AID Function Prolongs Survival and Diminishes Renal Pathology in the BXSB Mouse Model of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 204:1091-1100. [PMID: 31988182 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1900501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Almost a decade has passed since the approval of belimumab, an mAb directed against B lymphocyte stimulation and the first targeted therapy approved for systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) in over 50 y. Although well tolerated, the efficacy of belimumab remains limited and is not labeled for patients suffering from nephritis, the leading cause of patient mortality. We sought to explore alternative targets of autoreactive B lymphocytes through manipulation of affinity maturation. The BXSB/MpJ mouse, a well-established model of human SLE, develops elevated antinuclear Abs and immune complex-mediated nephritis along with other manifestations of SLE-like disease. To limit interfering with critical background genetics, we used CRISPR-Cas9 to disrupt activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID; Aicda) directly in BXSB zygotes. Homozygous null mice demonstrated significantly prolonged survival compared with wild-type. Although mice continued to develop plasma cells, splenic follicular structure was restored, and renal pathology was reduced. Mice developed expanded germinal center B lymphocyte populations as in other models of AID deficiency as well as increased populations of CD73+ B lymphocytes. Treatment with the small molecule inhibitor of RAD51, 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbenedisulfonic acid, resulted in minimal changes in disease markers in BXSB mice. The prolonged survival in AID-deficient BXSB mice appears attributed primarily to the reduced renal pathology, warranting further exploration, as current therapeutics targeting lupus nephritis are limited and, thus, in great demand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhu
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Alayna N Hay
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Ashley A Potter
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Madison W Richwine
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | | | - Tanya LeRoith
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - John Wilson
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609; and
| | | | | | - Caroline M Leeth
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061;
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44
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Chodisetti SB, Fike AJ, Domeier PP, Singh H, Choi NM, Corradetti C, Kawasawa YI, Cooper TK, Caricchio R, Rahman ZSM. Type II but Not Type I IFN Signaling Is Indispensable for TLR7-Promoted Development of Autoreactive B Cells and Systemic Autoimmunity. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 204:796-809. [PMID: 31900342 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1901175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
TLR7 is associated with development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. Although TLRs are known to activate type I IFN (T1IFN) signaling, the role of T1IFN and IFN-γ signaling in differential regulation of TLR7-mediated Ab-forming cell (AFC) and germinal center (GC) responses, and SLE development has never been directly investigated. Using TLR7-induced and TLR7 overexpression models of SLE, we report in this study a previously unrecognized indispensable role of TLR7-induced IFN-γ signaling in promoting AFC and GC responses, leading to autoreactive B cell and SLE development. T1IFN signaling in contrast, only modestly contributed to autoimmune responses and the disease process in these mice. TLR7 ligand imiquimod treated IFN-γ reporter mice show that CD4+ effector T cells including follicular helper T (Tfh) cells are the major producers of TLR7-induced IFN-γ. Transcriptomic analysis of splenic tissues from imiquimod-treated autoimmune-prone B6.Sle1b mice sufficient and deficient for IFN-γR indicates that TLR7-induced IFN-γ activates multiple signaling pathways to regulate TLR7-promoted SLE. Conditional deletion of Ifngr1 gene in peripheral B cells further demonstrates that TLR7-driven autoimmune AFC, GC and Tfh responses and SLE development are dependent on IFN-γ signaling in B cells. Finally, we show crucial B cell-intrinsic roles of STAT1 and T-bet in TLR7-driven GC, Tfh and plasma cell differentiation. Altogether, we uncover a nonredundant role for IFN-γ and its downstream signaling molecules STAT1 and T-bet in B cells in promoting TLR7-driven AFC, GC, and SLE development whereas T1IFN signaling moderately contributes to these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sathi Babu Chodisetti
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | - Adam J Fike
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | - Phillip P Domeier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | | | - Nicholas M Choi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | | | - Yuka Imamura Kawasawa
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033; and
| | - Timothy K Cooper
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | | | - Ziaur S M Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033;
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45
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Gong F, Zheng T, Zhou P. T Follicular Helper Cell Subsets and the Associated Cytokine IL-21 in the Pathogenesis and Therapy of Asthma. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2918. [PMID: 31921177 PMCID: PMC6923700 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
For many decades, T helper 2 (TH2) cells have been considered to predominantly regulate the pathogenic manifestations of allergic asthma, such as IgE-mediated sensitization, airway hyperresponsiveness, and eosinophil infiltration. However, recent discoveries have significantly shifted our understanding of asthma from a simple TH2 cell-dependent disease to a heterogeneous disease regulated by multiple T cell subsets, including T follicular helper (TFH) cells. TFH cells, which are a specialized cell population that provides help to B cells, have attracted intensive attention in the past decade because of their crucial role in regulating antibody response in a broad range of diseases. In particular, TFH cells are essential for IgE antibody class-switching. In this review, we summarize the recent progress regarding the role of TFH cells and their signature cytokine interleukin (IL)-21 in asthma from mouse studies and clinical reports. We further discuss future therapeutic strategies to treat asthma by targeting TFH cells and IL-21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Gong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Ting Zheng
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Laboratory of Immunology for Environment and Health, Shandong Analysis and Test Center, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, China
| | - Pengcheng Zhou
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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46
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B Cell Abnormalities in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Lupus Nephritis-Role in Pathogenesis and Effect of Immunosuppressive Treatments. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246231. [PMID: 31835612 PMCID: PMC6940927 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormalities in B cells play pivotal roles in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN). Breach in central and peripheral tolerance mechanisms generates autoreactive B cells which contribute to the pathogenesis of SLE and LN. Dysregulation of B cell transcription factors, cytokines and B cell-T cell interaction can result in aberrant B cell maturation and autoantibody production. These immunological abnormalities also lead to perturbations in circulating and infiltrating B cells in SLE and LN patients. Conventional and novel immunosuppressive medications confer differential effects on B cells which have important clinical implications. While cyclophosphamide and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) showed comparable clinical efficacy in active LN, MMF induction was associated with earlier reduction in circulating plasmablasts and plasma cells. Accumulating evidence suggests that MMF maintenance is associated with lower risk of disease relapse than azathioprine, which may be explained by its more potent and selective suppression of B cell proliferation. Novel therapeutic approaches targeting the B cell repertoire include B cell depletion with monoclonal antibodies binding to cell surface markers, inhibition of B cell cytokines, and modulation of costimulatory signals in B cell-T cell interaction. These biologics, despite showing improvements in serological parameters and proteinuria, did not achieve primary endpoints when used as add-on therapy to standard treatments in active LN patients. Other emerging treatments such as calcineurin inhibitors, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors and proteasome inhibitors also show distinct inhibitory effects on the B cell repertoire. Advancement in the knowledge on B cell biology has fueled the development of new therapeutic strategies in SLE and LN. Modification in background treatments, study endpoints and selective recruitment of subjects showing aberrant B cells or its signaling pathways when designing future clinical trials may better elucidate the roles of these novel therapies for SLE and LN patients.
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47
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Tan P, He L, Xing C, Mao J, Yu X, Zhu M, Diao L, Han L, Zhou Y, You MJ, Wang HY, Wang RF. Myeloid loss of Beclin 1 promotes PD-L1hi precursor B cell lymphoma development. J Clin Invest 2019; 129:5261-5277. [PMID: 31503548 PMCID: PMC6877338 DOI: 10.1172/jci127721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Beclin 1 (Becn1) is a key molecule in the autophagy pathway and has been implicated in cancer development. Due to the embryonic lethality of homozygous Becn1-deficient mice, the precise mechanisms and cell type-specific roles of Becn1 in regulating inflammation and cancer immunity remain elusive. Here, we report that myeloid-deficient Becn1 (Becn1ΔM) mice developed neutrophilia, were hypersusceptible to LPS-induced septic shock, and had a high risk of developing spontaneous precursor B cell (pre-B cell) lymphoma with elevated expression of immunosuppressive molecules programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and IL-10. Becn1 deficiency resulted in the stabilization of MEKK3 and aberrant p38 activation in neutrophils, and mediated neutrophil-B cell interaction through Cxcl9/Cxcr3 chemotaxis. Neutrophil-B cell interplay further led to the activation of IL-21/STAT3/IRF1 and CD40L/ERK signaling and PD-L1 expression; therefore, it suppressed CD8+ T cell function. Ablation of p38 in Becn1ΔM mice prevented neutrophil inflammation and B cell tumorigenesis. Importantly, the low expression of Becn1 in human neutrophils was significantly correlated with the PD-L1 levels in pre-B acute lymphoblastic lymphoma (ALL) patients. Our findings have identified myeloid Becn1 as a key regulator of cancer immunity and therapeutic target for pre-B cell lymphomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Tan
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Lian He
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Changsheng Xing
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jingrong Mao
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
- Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiao Yu
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Motao Zhu
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Lixia Diao
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Leng Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - M. James You
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Helen Y. Wang
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rong-Fu Wang
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
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48
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Adamichou C, Georgakis S, Bertsias G. Cytokine targets in lupus nephritis: Current and future prospects. Clin Immunol 2019; 206:42-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2018.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 07/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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49
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Iwasaki K, Kitahata N, Hiramitsu T, Yamamoto T, Noda T, Okada M, Narumi S, Watarai Y, Miwa Y, Uchida K, Matsuoka Y, Horimi K, Kobayashi T. Increased CD40L+PD-1+ follicular helper T cells (Tfh) as a biomarker for predicting calcineurin inhibitor sensitivity against Tfh-mediated B-cell activation/antibody production after kidney transplantation. Int Immunol 2019; 30:345-355. [PMID: 29878122 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxy039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is unclear to what extent the development of follicular helper T cells (Tfh) and de novo donor-specific human leukocyte antigen antibody (DSA) production could be influenced by immunosuppressive agents, particularly calcineurin inhibitor (CNI; cyclosporine or tacrolimus), after kidney transplantation. Here, the effects of immunosuppressive agents on Tfh-mediated B-cell activation and antibody production were investigated. In vitro circulating Tfh (cTfh; memory CD4+CXCR5+)/B-cell (CD19+) co-culture assays revealed that CNI considerably inhibited cTfh-mediated B-cell activation and IgG antibody secretion through the suppression of IL-21 and IL-2. Both IL-21 and CD40L up-regulated IL-2 receptors (CD25) on B cells, and anti-CD25 antibody induced apoptosis of activated B cells, resulting in the inhibition of IgG production. The frequency of cTfh-expressed CD40L and PD-1 was elevated in patients with de novo DSA 1 year after transplantation. The degree of inhibition by CNI was dependent on Staphylococcal enterotoxin B-induced CD40L+PD-1+ cTfh up-regulation level. Our data demonstrate that CD40L+PD-1+cTfh could be a marker to implicate individual difference in CNI sensitivity for Tfh-mediated B-cell activation in kidney transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Iwasaki
- Department of Kidney Disease and Transplant Immunology, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Nana Kitahata
- Department of Kidney Disease and Transplant Immunology, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takahisa Hiramitsu
- Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Department of Nephrology, 2-9 Myoken-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takayuki Yamamoto
- Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Department of Nephrology, 2-9 Myoken-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takayuki Noda
- Department of Kidney Disease and Transplant Immunology, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Manabu Okada
- Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Department of Nephrology, 2-9 Myoken-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shunji Narumi
- Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Department of Nephrology, 2-9 Myoken-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Watarai
- Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital, Department of Nephrology, 2-9 Myoken-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuko Miwa
- Department of Kidney Disease and Transplant Immunology, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Uchida
- Department of Kidney Disease and Transplant Immunology, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yutaka Matsuoka
- Department of Renal Transplant Surgery, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kosei Horimi
- Department of Renal Transplant Surgery, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takaaki Kobayashi
- Department of Renal Transplant Surgery, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
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50
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Seth A, Craft J. Spatial and functional heterogeneity of follicular helper T cells in autoimmunity. Curr Opin Immunol 2019; 61:1-9. [PMID: 31374450 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2019.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Follicular helper T cells provide signals that promote B cell development, proliferation, and production of affinity matured and appropriately isotype switched antibodies. In addition to their classical locations within B cell follicles and germinal centers therein, B cell helper T cells are also found in extrafollicular spaces - either in secondary lymphoid or non-lymphoid tissues. Both follicular and extrafollicular T helper cells drive autoantibody-mediated autoimmunity. Interfering with B cell help provided by T cells can ameliorate autoimmune disease in animal models and human patients. The next frontier in Tfh cell biology will be identification of Tfh cell-specific pathogenic changes in autoimmunity and exploiting them for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinav Seth
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Joe Craft
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.
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