1
|
Annis JL, Duncan JBW, Billcheck HO, Kuzma AG, Crittenden RB, Brown MG. Multiple Immune and Genetic Mechanisms Contribute to Cmv5s-Driven Susceptibility and Tissue Damage during Acute Murine Cytomegalovirus Infection. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:813-824. [PMID: 38224204 PMCID: PMC10922835 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The MHC class I molecule H-2Dk conveys resistance to acute murine CMV infection in both C57L (H-2Dk transgenic) and MA/My mice. M.H2k/b mice are on an MA/My background aside from a C57L-derived region spanning the MHC (Cmv5s), which diminishes this resistance and causes significant spleen histopathology. To hone in on the effector elements within the Cmv5s interval, we generated several Cmv5-recombinant congenic mouse strains and screened them in vivo, allowing us to narrow the phenotype-associated interval >6-fold and segment the genetic mechanism to at least two independent loci within the MHC region. In addition, we sought to further characterize the Cmv5s-associated phenotypes in their temporal appearance and potential direct relationship to viral load. To this end, we found that Cmv5s histopathology and NK cell activation could not be fully mirrored in the MA/My mice with increased viral dose, and that marginal zone destruction was the first apparent Cmv5s phenotype, being reliably quantified as early as 2 d postinfection in the M.H2k/b mice, prior to divergence in viral load, weight loss, or NK cell phenotype. Finally, we further dissect NK cell involvement, finding no intrinsic differences in NK cell function, despite increased upregulation of activation markers and checkpoint receptors. In conclusion, these data dissect the genetic and immunologic underpinnings of Cmv5 and reveal a model in which polymorphism within the MHC region of the genome leads to the development of tissue damage and corrupts protective NK cell immunity during acute viral infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Annis
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville Virginia, USA
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - John Benjamin W. Duncan
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Helen O. Billcheck
- Center for Comparative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Anna G. Kuzma
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Rowena B. Crittenden
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Michael G. Brown
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville Virginia, USA
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Licensing Natural Killers for Antiviral Immunity. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10070908. [PMID: 34358058 PMCID: PMC8308748 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM)-bearing receptors (IRs) enable discrimination between self- and non-self molecules on the surface of host target cells. In this regard, they have a vital role in self-tolerance through binding and activating intracellular tyrosine phosphatases which can inhibit cellular activation. Yet, self-MHC class I (MHC I)-specific IRs are versatile in that they can also positively impact lymphocyte functionality, as exemplified by their role in natural killer (NK) cell education, often referred to as ’licensing‘. Recent discoveries using defined mouse models of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection have revealed that select self-MHC I IRs can increase NK cell antiviral defenses as well, whereas other licensing IRs cannot, or instead impede virus-specific NK responses for reasons that remain poorly understood. This review highlights a role for self-MHC I ‘licensing’ IRs in antiviral immunity, especially in the context of CMV infection, their impact on virus-specific NK cells during acute infection, and their potential to affect viral pathogenesis and disease.
Collapse
|
3
|
Ly49R activation receptor drives self-MHC-educated NK cell immunity against cytomegalovirus infection. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:26768-26778. [PMID: 31843910 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1913064117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells mediate vital control of cancer and viral infection. They rely on MHC class I (MHC I)-specific self-receptors to identify and lyse diseased cells without harming self-MHC I-bearing host cells. NK cells bearing inhibitory self-receptors for host MHC I also undergo education, referred to as licensing, which causes them to become more responsive to stimulation via activation receptor signaling. Previous work has shown that licensed NK cells selectively expand during virus infections and they are associated with improved clinical response in human patients experiencing certain chronic virus infections, including HIV and hepatitis C virus. However, the importance of inhibitory self-receptors in NK-mediated virus immunity is debated as they also limit signals in NK cells emanating from virus-specific activation receptors. Using a mouse model of MHC I-dependent (H-2Dk) virus immunity, we discovered that NK cells depend on the Ly49G2 inhibitory self-receptor to mediate virus control, which coincided with host survival during murine cytomegalovirus infection. This antiviral effect further requires active signaling in NK cells via the Ly49R activation receptor that also binds H-2Dk In tandem, these functionally discordant Ly49 self-receptors increase NK cell proliferation and effector activity during infection, resulting in selective up-regulation of CD25 and KLRG1 in virus-specific Ly49R+ Ly49G2+ NK cells. Our findings establish that paired self-receptors act as major determinants of NK cell-mediated virus sensing and immunity.
Collapse
|
4
|
Brown MG, Gamache A, Nash WT, Cronk J. Natural selection for killer receptors and their MHC class I ligands: In pursuit of gene pairs that fit well in tandem. J Leukoc Biol 2018; 105:489-495. [PMID: 30500089 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.2ri0818-315r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the genetic basis of host resistance to viral infection and disease has progressed significantly over the last century. Numerous genes coding for modifiers of immune functions have been identified, which impact a variety of critical cellular processes, including signaling via lymphocyte receptors and their ligands, signal transduction, cytokine signaling, production and release of cytotoxic effectors, transcriptional regulation, and proliferation. Genome-wide association studies implicate an important role for both highly polymorphic NK cell receptors and their MHC class I ligands in modifying host resistance. These findings indicate NK cells are critical mediators of viral control with considerable potential to affect morbidity and mortality outcomes. They further suggest that both stimulatory and inhibitory NK receptor polymorphisms alter NK cell sensing of MHC I ligands on viral targets, which influences how NK cells respond to infection. In many cases, however, the underlying causes associated with host outcomes remain elusive. Herein, we discuss several modes of NK cell sensing of MHC I and MHC I-like molecules on viral targets, and the role of genetic diversity in this evolutionarily dynamic process. We further suggest that natural selection for paired NK receptors with opposing function, but shared MHC I ligands may give rise to rare, but highly effective MHC I-dependent modes of NK cell sensing of viral targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Brown
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Awndre Gamache
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - William T Nash
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - John Cronk
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Genome-Wide Exome Analysis of Cmv5-Disparate Mouse Strains that Differ in Host Resistance to Murine Cytomegalovirus Infection. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2017; 7:1979-1984. [PMID: 28450376 PMCID: PMC5473773 DOI: 10.1534/g3.117.042531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Host resistance to murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) varies in different strains of laboratory mice due to differences in expression of determinants that control and clear viral infection. The major histocompatibility complex class I Dk molecule is one such determinant that controls MCMV through the action of natural killer (NK) cells. However, the extent of NK cell–mediated Dk-dependent resistance to infection varies in different mouse strains. The molecular genetic basis of this variation remains unclear. Previous work to examine the Dk effect on MCMV resistance in MA/My × C57L offspring discovered multiple quantitative trait loci (QTL) that may serve to modify NK cells or their capacity to respond during MCMV infection. One QTL in particular, Cmv5, was found to regulate the frequency of NK cells and secondary lymphoid organ structure in spleen during MCMV infection. Cmv5 alleles, however, have not been identified. We therefore sequenced and analyzed genome-wide exome (GWE) variants, including those aligned to the critical genetic interval, in Cmv5-disparate mouse strains. Their GWE variant profiles were compared to assess strain-specific sequence data integrity and to analyze mouse strain relatedness across the genome. GWE content was further compared against data from the Mouse Genomes Project. This approach was developed as a platform for using GWE variants to define genomic regions of divergence and similarity in different mouse strains while also validating the overall quality of GWE sequence data. Moreover, the analysis provides a framework for the selection of novel QTL candidate sequences, including at the Cmv5 critical region.
Collapse
|
6
|
Nash WT, Gillespie AL, Brown MG. Murine Cytomegalovirus Disrupts Splenic Dendritic Cell Subsets via Type I Interferon-Dependent and -Independent Mechanisms. Front Immunol 2017; 8:251. [PMID: 28337202 PMCID: PMC5343017 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DC) are well-known modulators of immunity. This heterogeneous population is composed of defined subsets that exhibit functional specialization and are critical in initiating responses to pathogens. As such, many infectious agents employ strategies to disrupt DC functioning in attempts to evade the immune system. In some instances, this manifests as an outright loss of these cells. Previous work has suggested that, in the absence of an efficient natural killer (NK) cell response, murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) induces large amounts of interferon (IFN)-I. This heightened IFN-I response is thought to contribute to conventional DC (cDC) loss and delayed development of T cell immunity. However, the precise role of IFN-I in such cDC loss remains unclear. We investigated the effects of licensed NK cells and IFN-I signaling on splenic cDC subsets during MCMV infection and found that a licensed NK cell response partially protects cDC numbers, but does not prevent increases in serum IFN-I. This suggested that high residual IFN-I could contribute to cDC loss. Therefore, we used multiple strategies to modulate IFN-I signaling during MCMV infection including plasmacytoid DC depletion, IFN-I receptor (IFNAR) blockade, and genetic ablation of IFNAR expression. Interestingly, restriction of IFN-I signals did not substantially preserve either CD8+ or CD4+ DC total numbers, but resulted in significant retention and/or accumulation of the splenic CD8− CD4− [double negative (DN)] subset. However, the DN DC effect manifested in a DC-extrinsic manner since IFNAR-deficient cells were not preferentially retained over their IFNAR wild-type counterparts in a mixed-chimera setting. Our results show that IFN-I signaling is not responsible for overt cDC toxicity in the setting of acute MCMV infection and emphasize that additional mechanisms contribute to DC loss and require exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William T Nash
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Alyssa L Gillespie
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Michael G Brown
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Teoh JJ, Gamache AE, Gillespie AL, Stadnisky MD, Yagita H, Bullock TNJ, Brown MG. Acute Virus Control Mediated by Licensed NK Cells Sets Primary CD8+ T Cell Dependence on CD27 Costimulation. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 197:4360-4370. [PMID: 27798162 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1601049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
NK cells represent a critical first-line of immune defense against a bevy of viral pathogens, and infection can provoke them to mediate supportive and suppressive effects on virus-specific adaptive immunity. In mice expressing MHC class I Dk (Dk), a major murine CMV (MCMV) resistance factor and self-ligand of the inhibitory Ly49G2 (G2) receptor, licensed G2+ NK cells provide essential host resistance against MCMV infection. Additionally G2+ NK cell responses to MCMV increase the rate and extent of dendritic cell (DC) recovery, as well as early priming of CD8+ T cell effectors in response to MCMV. However, relatively little is known about the NK cell effect on costimulatory ligand patterns displayed by DCs or on ensuing effector and memory T cell responses. In this study, we found that CD27-dependent CD8+ T cell priming and differentiation are shaped by the efficiency of NK responses to virus infection. Surprisingly, differences in specific NK responses to MCMV in Dk-disparate mice failed to distinguish early DC costimulatory patterns. Nonetheless, although CD27 deficiency did not impede licensed NK-mediated resistance, CD70 and CD27 were required to efficiently prime and regulate effector CD8+ T cell differentiation in response to MCMV, which eventually resulted in biased memory T cell precursor formation in Dk mice. In contrast, CD8+ T cells accrued more slowly in non-Dk mice and eventually differentiated into terminal effector cells regardless of CD27 stimulation. Disparity in this requirement for CD27 signaling indicates that specific virus control mediated by NK cells can shape DC costimulatory signals needed to prime CD8+ T cells and eventual T cell fate decisions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey J Teoh
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908.,Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908
| | - Awndre E Gamache
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908.,Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908
| | - Alyssa L Gillespie
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908
| | - Michael D Stadnisky
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908.,Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908
| | - Hideo Yagita
- Department of Immunology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; and
| | - Timothy N J Bullock
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908.,Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908
| | - Michael G Brown
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908; .,Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Boudreau JE, Liu XR, Zhao Z, Zhang A, Shultz LD, Greiner DL, Dupont B, Hsu KC. Cell-Extrinsic MHC Class I Molecule Engagement Augments Human NK Cell Education Programmed by Cell-Intrinsic MHC Class I. Immunity 2016; 45:280-91. [PMID: 27496730 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2016.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 04/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The effector potential of NK cells is counterbalanced by their sensitivity to inhibition by "self" MHC class I molecules in a process called "education." In humans, interactions between inhibitory killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) and human MHC (HLA) mediate NK cell education. In HLA-B(∗)27:05(+) transgenic mice and in patients undergoing HLA-mismatched hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), NK cells derived from human CD34(+) stem cells were educated by HLA from both donor hematopoietic cells and host stromal cells. Furthermore, mature human KIR3DL1(+) NK cells gained reactivity after adoptive transfer to HLA-B(∗)27:05(+) mice or bone marrow chimeric mice where HLA-B(∗)27:05 was restricted to either the hematopoietic or stromal compartment. Silencing of HLA in primary NK cells diminished NK cell reactivity, while acquisition of HLA from neighboring cells increased NK cell reactivity. Altogether, these findings reveal roles for cell-extrinsic HLA in driving NK cell reactivity upward, and cell-intrinsic HLA in maintaining NK cell education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette E Boudreau
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Xiao-Rong Liu
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Zeguo Zhao
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Aaron Zhang
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Dale L Greiner
- Program in Molecular Medicine Diabetes Center of Excellence, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Bo Dupont
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Katharine C Hsu
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gillespie AL, Teoh J, Lee H, Prince J, Stadnisky MD, Anderson M, Nash W, Rival C, Wei H, Gamache A, Farber CR, Tung K, Brown MG. Genomic Modifiers of Natural Killer Cells, Immune Responsiveness and Lymphoid Tissue Remodeling Together Increase Host Resistance to Viral Infection. PLoS Pathog 2016; 12:e1005419. [PMID: 26845690 PMCID: PMC4742223 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The MHC class I Dk molecule supplies vital host resistance during murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection. Natural killer (NK) cells expressing the Ly49G2 inhibitory receptor, which specifically binds Dk, are required to control viral spread. The extent of Dk-dependent host resistance, however, differs significantly amongst related strains of mice, C57L and MA/My. As a result, we predicted that relatively small-effect modifier genetic loci might together shape immune cell features, NK cell reactivity, and the host immune response to MCMV. A robust Dk-dependent genetic effect, however, has so far hindered attempts to identify additional host resistance factors. Thus, we applied genomic mapping strategies and multicolor flow cytometric analysis of immune cells in naive and virus-infected hosts to identify genetic modifiers of the host immune response to MCMV. We discovered and validated many quantitative trait loci (QTL); these were mapped to at least 19 positions on 16 chromosomes. Intriguingly, one newly discovered non-MHC locus (Cmv5) controlled splenic NK cell accrual, secondary lymphoid organ structure, and lymphoid follicle development during MCMV infection. We infer that Cmv5 aids host resistance to MCMV infection by expanding NK cells needed to preserve and protect essential tissue structural elements, to enhance lymphoid remodeling and to increase viral clearance in spleen. Uncovering the genetic basis of resistance to viral infection and disease is critical to learning about how immune defenses might be adjusted, how to design better vaccines, and how to elicit effectual immune protection in human populations. Prior studies have shown that both MHC and non-MHC genes support host defenses, or endow specialized immune cells with efficient sensing or responsiveness to infection. Many additional resistance genes remain to be identified, including difficult to detect smaller-effect alleles, which might add to or interact with other genetic factors. Our grasp of the complex interaction involving these genetic elements is thus inadequate. We combined genomic and multiparameter phenotypic analyses to map and identify host genes that control immune cells or sensitivity to viral infection. We reasoned that some might also affect viral clearance. Thus we enumerated a range of immune cell traits in mice before and after infection, which permitted genomic analysis of viral immunity, and mapping of genetic modifiers for each trait. Our study demonstrates that distinct loci collectively regulate both NK cells and host resistance, which provides a framework to understand the genetic interactions, and a variety of potential novel targets to adjust NK cell functionality and host resistance to infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Lundgren Gillespie
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey Teoh
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Heather Lee
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Jessica Prince
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Michael D. Stadnisky
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Monique Anderson
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - William Nash
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Claudia Rival
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Hairong Wei
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Awndre Gamache
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Charles R. Farber
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Center for Public Health Genomics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Kenneth Tung
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Michael G. Brown
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Forbes CA, Coudert JD. Mechanisms regulating NK cell activation during viral infection. Future Virol 2015. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl.14.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT NK cells constitute a population of lymphocytes involved in innate immune functions. They play a critical role in antiviral immune surveillance. Viruses have evolved with their host species for millions of years, each exerting a selective pressure upon the other. As a corollary, the pathways used by the immune system that are critical to control viral infection can be revealed by defining the role of viral gene products that are nonessential for virus replication. We relate here the battery of resources available to NK cells to recognize and eliminate viruses and reciprocally the immune evasion mechanisms developed by viruses to prevent NK cell activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Forbes
- Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, 2 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jerome D Coudert
- Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, 2 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Ophthalmology & Vision Science, M517, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wei H, Nash WT, Makrigiannis AP, Brown MG. Impaired NK-cell education diminishes resistance to murine CMV infection. Eur J Immunol 2014; 44:3273-82. [PMID: 25187217 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201444800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Revised: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Ly49G2 (G2+) NK cells mediate murine (M)CMV resistance in MHC D(k) -expressing mice. Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) studies revealed that G2+ NK cell-mediated MCMV resistance requires D(k) in both hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cells. As a Ly49G2 ligand, D(k) in both cell lineages may contribute to lysis of virus-infected cells. Alternatively, cellular differences in self-MHC D(k) may have affected NK-cell education, and consequently NK cell-mediated viral clearance. We investigated the D(k) -licensing effect on BM-derived NK cells in BMT recipients by analyzing cytokines, cytotoxicity and MCMV resistance. In BMT recipients with lineage-restricted D(k) , G2+ NK-cell reactivity and cytotoxicity was diminished in comparison to BMT recipients with self-MHC in all cells. Reduced G2+ NK-mediated MCMV resistance in BMT recipients with lineage-restricted self-MHC indicates that licensing of G2+ NK cells is related to NK-cell reactivity and viral control. Titrating donor BM with self-MHC-bearing hematopoietic cells, as well as adoptive transfer of mature G2+ NK cells into BMT recipients with self-MHC in non-hematopoietic cells only, enhanced NK-cell licensing and rescued MCMV resistance. This disparate self-MHC NK-cell education model would suggest that inadequately licensed NK cells corresponded to inefficient viral sensing and clearance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hairong Wei
- Department of Medicine, Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Verma S, Loewendorf A, Wang Q, McDonald B, Redwood A, Benedict CA. Inhibition of the TRAIL death receptor by CMV reveals its importance in NK cell-mediated antiviral defense. PLoS Pathog 2014; 10:e1004268. [PMID: 25122141 PMCID: PMC4133390 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1004268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 06/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) death receptors (DR) regulate apoptosis and inflammation, but their role in antiviral defense is poorly understood. Cytomegaloviruses (CMV) encode many immune-modulatory genes that shape host immunity, and they utilize multiple strategies to target the TNF-family cytokines. Here we show that the m166 open reading frame (orf) of mouse CMV (MCMV) is strictly required to inhibit expression of TRAIL-DR in infected cells. An MCMV mutant lacking m166 expression (m166stop) is severely compromised for replication in vivo, most notably in the liver, and depleting natural killer (NK) cells, or infecting TRAIL-DR-/- mice, restored MCMV-m166stop replication completely. These results highlight the critical importance for CMV to have evolved a strategy to inhibit TRAIL-DR signaling to thwart NK-mediated defenses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shilpi Verma
- Division of Immune Regulation, La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Andrea Loewendorf
- Division of Immune Regulation, La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Qiao Wang
- Division of Immune Regulation, La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Bryan McDonald
- Division of Immune Regulation, La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Alec Redwood
- Microbiology and Immunology, School of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Chris A. Benedict
- Division of Immune Regulation, La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nash WT, Teoh J, Wei H, Gamache A, Brown MG. Know Thyself: NK-Cell Inhibitory Receptors Prompt Self-Tolerance, Education, and Viral Control. Front Immunol 2014; 5:175. [PMID: 24795719 PMCID: PMC3997006 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells provide essential protection against viral infections. One of the defining features of this lymphocyte population is the expression of a wide array of variable cell surface stimulatory and inhibitory NK receptors (sNKR and iNKR, respectively). The iNKR are particularly important in terms of NK-cell education. As receptors specific for MHC class I (MHC I) molecules, they are responsible for self-tolerance and adjusting NK-cell reactivity based on the expression level of self-MHC I. The end result of this education is twofold: (1) inhibitory signaling tunes the functional capacity of the NK cell, endowing greater potency with greater education, and (2) education on self allows the NK cell to detect aberrations in MHC I expression, a common occurrence during many viral infections. Many studies have indicated an important role for iNKR and MHC I in disease, making these receptors attractive targets for manipulating NK-cell reactivity in the clinic. A greater understanding of iNKR and their ability to regulate NK cells will provide a basis for future attempts at translating their potential utility into benefits for human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William T Nash
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA ; Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Jeffrey Teoh
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA ; Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Hairong Wei
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA ; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Awndre Gamache
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA ; Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Michael G Brown
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA ; Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, School of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA ; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Prince J, Lundgren A, Stadnisky MD, Nash WT, Beeber A, Turner SD, Brown MG. Multiparametric analysis of host response to murine cytomegalovirus in MHC class I-disparate mice reveals primacy of Dk-licensed Ly49G2+ NK cells in viral control. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 191:4709-19. [PMID: 24068668 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1301388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
MHC class I D(k) and Ly49G2 (G2) inhibitory receptor-expressing NK cells are essential to murine CMV (MCMV) resistance in MA/My mice. Without D(k), G2(+) NK cells in C57L mice fail to protect against MCMV infection. As a cognate ligand of G2, D(k) licenses G2(+) NK cells for effector activity. These data suggested that D(k)-licensed G2(+) NK cells might recognize and control MCMV infection. However, a role for licensed NK cells in viral immunity is uncertain. We combined classical genetics with flow cytometry to visualize the host response to MCMV. Immune cells collected from individuals of a diverse cohort of MA/My × C57L offspring segregating D(k) were examined before infection and postinfection, including Ly49(+) NK subsets, receptor expression features, and other phenotypic traits. To identify critical NK cell features, automated analysis of 110 traits was performed in R using the Pearson correlation, followed with a Bonferroni correction for multiple tests. Hierarchical clustering of trait associations and principal component analyses were used to discern shared immune response and genetic relationships. The results demonstrate that G2 expression on naive blood NK cells was predictive of MCMV resistance. However, rapid G2(+) NK cell expansion following viral exposure occurred selectively in D(k) offspring; this response was more highly correlated with MCMV control than all other immune cell features. We infer that D(k)-licensed G2(+) NK cells efficiently detected missing-self MHC cues on viral targets, which elicited cellular expansion and target cell killing. Therefore, MHC polymorphism regulates licensing and detection of viral targets by distinct subsets of NK cells required in innate viral control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Prince
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
|
16
|
Moussa P, Marton J, Vidal SM, Fodil-Cornu N. Genetic dissection of NK cell responses. Front Immunol 2013; 3:425. [PMID: 23346087 PMCID: PMC3548222 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2012.00425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Accepted: 12/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The association of Natural Killer (NK) cell deficiencies with disease susceptibility has established a central role for NK cells in host defence. In this context, genetic approaches have been pivotal in elucidating and characterizing the molecular mechanisms underlying NK cell function. To this end, homozygosity mapping and linkage analysis in humans have identified mutations that impact NK cell function and cause life-threatening diseases. However, several critical restrictions accompany genetic studies in humans. Studying NK cell pathophysiology in a mouse model has therefore proven a useful tool. The relevance of the mouse model is underscored by the similarities that exist between cell-structure-sensing receptors and the downstream signaling that leads to NK cell activation. In this review, we provide an overview of how human and mouse quantitative trait locis (QTLs) have facilitated the identification of genes that modulate NK cell development, recognition, and killing of target cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Moussa
- Department of Human Genetics and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Life Sciences Complex Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Narni-Mancinelli E, Ugolini S, Vivier E. Tuning the threshold of natural killer cell responses. Curr Opin Immunol 2012; 25:53-8. [PMID: 23270590 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2012.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 11/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer cells are lymphocytes of the innate immune system that can kill an array of tumor and infected cells and secrete cytokines that participate in the shaping of the adaptive immune response. While it was believed that NK cell effector responses are acquired during maturation and then fixed, it appears that the threshold of NK cell responsiveness is more adaptable than originally thought. We review here how the local context provides several signals that impact on NK cell differentiation, responsiveness and shapes the antiviral and immunoregulatory outcome of NK cell activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Narni-Mancinelli
- Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Aix-Marseille Université UM2, Campus de Luminy case 906, 13288 Marseille, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vidal SM, Khakoo SI, Biron CA. Natural killer cell responses during viral infections: flexibility and conditioning of innate immunity by experience. Curr Opin Virol 2012; 1:497-512. [PMID: 22180766 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2011.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells mediate innate defense against viral infections, but the mechanisms in place to access their functions as needed during diverse challenges while limiting collateral damage are poorly understood. Recent molecular characterization of effects mediated through infection-induced inhibitory/activating NK receptor-ligand pairs and cytokines are providing new insights into pathways regulating their responses and revealing unexpected consequences for NK cell subset effects, maintenance, proliferation and function through times overlapping with adaptive and long-lived immunity. The observations define flexible pathways for experience-induced 'conditioning' and challenge narrowly defined roles for NK cells and innate immunity as first responders with prescribed functions. They suggest that individual experiences as well as genes influence the innate immune resources available to fight off an infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia M Vidal
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lundgren A, Kim S, Stadnisky MD, Brown MG. Rapid discrimination of MHC class I and killer cell lectin-like receptor allele variants by high-resolution melt analysis. Immunogenetics 2012; 64:633-40. [PMID: 22752191 DOI: 10.1007/s00251-012-0630-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2012] [Accepted: 05/16/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Ly49G and H-2 class I D(k) molecules are critical to natural killer cell-mediated viral control. To examine their contributions in greater depth, we established NK gene complex (NKC)/Ly49 congenic strains and a novel genetic model defined by MHC class I D(k) disparity in congenic and transgenic mouse strains. Generation and maintenance of Ly49 and H-2 class I select strains require efficient and reproducible genotyping assays for highly polygenic and polymorphic sequences. Thus, we coupled gene- and allele-specific PCR with high-resolution melt (HRM) analysis to discriminate Ly49g and H-2 class I D and K alleles in select strains and in the F(2) and backcross hybrid offspring of different genetic crosses. We show that HRM typing for these critical immune response genes is fast, accurate, and dependable. We further demonstrate that H-2 class I D HRM typing is competent to detect and quantify transgene copy numbers in different mice with distinct genetic backgrounds. Our findings substantiate the utility and practicality of HRM genotyping for highly related genes and alleles, even those belonging to clustered multigene families. Based on these findings, we envision that HRM is capable to interrogate and quantify gene- and allele-specific variations due to differential regulation of gene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Lundgren
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
Genetic and environmental factors contribute in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Lupus nephritis, the most common and severe manifestation of SLE, involves inflammation in the kidney leading to loss of renal function. However, it is not clear what controls the progression of lupus nephritis; this is an important research question, considering its implications in clinical treatment of lupus nephritis. Finding genes that underlie the development and progression of lupus nephritis will shed light on this question. NZM2328 is a spontaneous mouse model for SLE. Most NZM2328 female mice develop autoantibodies (e.g., antinuclear antibody and anti-dsDNA antibody), glomerulonephritis (GN), and severe proteinuria between 5 and 12 months of age. In contrast, C57L/J mice fail to exhibit similar signs of autoimmune disease. We used classical genetics to map and identify SLE genes in offspring generated by backcrossing C57L/J to NZM2328. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling acute (Agnz1 and Agnz2) and chronic (Cgnz1) GN features were uncovered by the analysis. To verify the Cgnz1 and Agnz1 on distal mouse chromosome 1, we produced the NZM23238.C57Lc1 (Lc1) congenic strain, which replaced NZM2328 Cgnz1 and Agnz1 alleles with those derived from C57L/J. The development of acute GN and chronic GN was markedly reduced in Lc1 mice, confirming the linkage findings. Further mapping by the generation of intrachromosomal recombinants of NZM2328.Lc1 support the thesis that acute GN and chronic GN are under separate genetic control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ge
- Department of Medicine and Center of Immunity, Inflammation and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Moresco EMY, Beutler B. Resisting viral infection: the gene by gene approach. Curr Opin Virol 2011; 1:513-8. [PMID: 22440911 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2011.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Revised: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 10/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This review focuses on genes required for resistance to mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV), as identified through unbiased genetic screening. Components of the developmental, sensing, and effector pathways, functioning in multiple cell types, were detected by infecting 22,000 G3 mutant mice with MCMV at an inoculum easily contained by WT animals. Merging these findings with discoveries from hypothesis-based studies, we present a cohesive picture of the essential elements utilized by the mouse innate immune system to counter MCMV. We believe that many breakthrough discoveries will yet be made using a classical genetic approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Marie Y Moresco
- Department of Genetics, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
The impact of Ly49-NK cell-dependent recognition of MCMV infection on innate and adaptive immune responses. J Biomed Biotechnol 2011; 2011:641702. [PMID: 21660138 PMCID: PMC3110313 DOI: 10.1155/2011/641702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical and experimental data indicate that a subset of innate lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, plays a crucial role in the response against herpesviruses, especially cytomegaloviruses (CMV). Indeed, in mice, NK cells, due to the expression of germline encoded Ly49 receptors, possess multiple mechanisms to recognize CMV infection. Classically, this results in NK cell activation and the destruction of the infected cells. More recently, however, this unique host-pathogen interaction has permitted the discovery of novel aspects of NK cell biology, implicating them in the regulation of adaptive immune responses as well as in the development of immunological memory. Here, we will concisely review the newly acquired evidence pertaining to NK cell Ly49-dependent recognition of MCMV-infected cell and the ensuing NK cell regulatory responses.
Collapse
|
23
|
Fodil-Cornu N, Loredo-Osti JC, Vidal SM. NK cell receptor/H2-Dk-dependent host resistance to viral infection is quantitatively modulated by H2q inhibitory signals. PLoS Genet 2011; 7:e1001368. [PMID: 21533075 PMCID: PMC3080855 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1001368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2010] [Accepted: 03/08/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The cytomegalovirus resistance locus Cmv3 has been linked to an
epistatic interaction between two loci: a Natural Killer (NK) cell receptor gene
and the major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) locus. To demonstrate
the interaction between Cmv3 and
H2k, we generated double congenic mice between
MA/My and BALB.K mice and an F2 cross between FVB/N
(H-2q) and BALB.K
(H2k) mice, two strains susceptible to mouse
cytomegalovirus (MCMV). Only mice expressing H2k in
conjunction with Cmv3MA/My or
Cmv3FVB were resistant to MCMV infection.
Subsequently, an F3 cross was carried out between transgenic
FVB/H2-Dk and MHC-I deficient mice in which
only the progeny expressing Cmv3FVB and a single
H2-Dk class-I molecule completely controlled
MCMV viral loads. This phenotype was shown to be NK cell–dependent and
associated with subsequent NK cell proliferation. Finally, we demonstrated that
a number of H2q alleles influence the expression
level of H2q molecules, but not intrinsic functional
properties of NK cells; viral loads, however, were quantitatively proportional
to the number of H2q alleles. Our results support a
model in which H-2q molecules convey Ly49-dependent
inhibitory signals that interfere with the action of
H2-Dk on NK cell activation against MCMV
infection. Thus, the integration of activating and inhibitory signals emanating
from various MHC-I/NK cell receptor interactions regulates NK
cell–mediated control of viral load. Effective natural killer (NK) cell responses against virally infected cells are
regulated by NK cell receptors that specifically recognize target cells. In the
current study, we validated the specific interaction taking place between NK
cell receptors and MHC class I molecules on the surface of infected cells,
resulting in resistance to cytomegalovirus. Genetic dissection of this mechanism
of interaction revealed that the NK cell response occurs exclusively through the
triggering of the activating Ly49P receptor by the MHC class I
H2-Dk molecule. We observed, in this context,
that NK cells were incapable of clearing the virus when target cells also
expressed MHC class I H2q molecules, which strongly
and quantitatively inhibit NK cells. Our findings reveal that the interplay
between inhibitory and activating NK cell receptors and their MHC class I
ligands generate signals that shape the outcome of infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nassima Fodil-Cornu
- Department of Human Genetics and Department of
Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Life Sciences Complex, Montreal,
Canada
- McGill Centre for the Study of Host
Resistance, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Silvia M. Vidal
- Department of Human Genetics and Department of
Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Life Sciences Complex, Montreal,
Canada
- McGill Centre for the Study of Host
Resistance, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
MHC class I (MHC I) is essential to NK- and T-cell effector and surveillance functions. However, it is unknown whether MHC I polymorphism influences adaptive immunity through NK cells. Previously, we found that MHC I D(k), a cognate ligand for the Ly49G2 inhibitory receptor, was essential to NK control of murine (M)CMV infection. Here we assessed the significance of NK inhibitory receptor recognition of MCMV on CD8 T cells in genetically defined MHC I D(k) disparate mice. We observed that D(k)-licensed Ly49G2⁺ NK cells stabilized and then enhanced conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) recovery after infection. Furthermore, licensed NK support of cDC recovery was essential to enhance the tempo, magnitude, and effector activity of virus-specific CD8 T cells. Minimal cDC and CD8 T-cell number differences after low-dose MCMV in D(k) disparate animals further implied that licensed NK recognition of MCMV imparted qualitative cDC changes to enhance CD8 T-cell priming.
Collapse
|
25
|
Babić M, Pyzik M, Zafirova B, Mitrović M, Butorac V, Lanier LL, Krmpotić A, Vidal SM, Jonjić S. Cytomegalovirus immunoevasin reveals the physiological role of "missing self" recognition in natural killer cell dependent virus control in vivo. J Exp Med 2010; 207:2663-73. [PMID: 21078887 PMCID: PMC2989764 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20100921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2010] [Accepted: 10/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) are renowned for interfering with the immune system of their hosts. To sidestep antigen presentation and destruction by CD8(+) T cells, these viruses reduce expression of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) molecules. However, this process sensitizes the virus-infected cells to natural killer (NK) cell-mediated killing via the "missing self" axis. Mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV) uses m152 and m06 encoded proteins to inhibit surface expression of MHC I molecules. In addition, it encodes another protein, m04, which forms complexes with MHC I and escorts them to the cell surface. This mechanism is believed to prevent NK cell activation and killing by restoring the "self" signature and allowing the engagement of inhibitory Ly49 receptors on NK cells. Here we show that MCMV lacking m04 was attenuated in an NK cell- and MHC I-dependent manner. NK cell-mediated control of the infection was dependent on the presence of NK cell subsets expressing different inhibitory Ly49 receptors. In addition to providing evidence for immunoevasion strategies used by CMVs to avoid NK cell control via the missing-self pathway, our study is the first to demonstrate that missing self-dependent NK cell activation is biologically relevant in the protection against viral infection in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Babić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Michal Pyzik
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1B1, Canada
| | - Biljana Zafirova
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Maja Mitrović
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Višnja Butorac
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Lewis L. Lanier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and the Cancer Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94115
| | - Astrid Krmpotić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Silvia M. Vidal
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1B1, Canada
| | - Stipan Jonjić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|