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Koch-Heier J, Vogel AB, Füll Y, Ebensperger M, Schönsiegel A, Zinser RS, Planz O. MEK-inhibitor treatment reduces the induction of regulatory T cells in mice after influenza A virus infection. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1360698. [PMID: 38979428 PMCID: PMC11228811 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1360698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a crucial and complex role in balancing the immune response to viral infection. Primarily, they serve to regulate the immune response by limiting the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, reducing inflammation in infected tissue, and limiting virus-specific T cell responses. But excessive activity of Tregs can also be detrimental and hinder the ability to effectively clear viral infection, leading to prolonged disease and potential worsening of disease severity. Not much is known about the impact of Tregs during severe influenza. In the present study, we show that CD4+/CD25+FoxP3+ Tregs are strongly involved in disease progression during influenza A virus (IAV) infection in mice. By comparing sublethal with lethal dose infection in vivo, we found that not the viral load but an increased number of CD4+/CD25+FoxP3+ Tregs may impair the immune response by suppressing virus specific CD8+ T cells and favors disease progression. Moreover, the transfer of induced Tregs into mice with mild disease symptoms had a negative and prolonged effect on disease outcome, emphasizing their importance for pathogenesis. Furthermore, treatment with MEK-inhibitors resulted in a significant reduction of induced Tregs in vitro and in vivo and positively influenced the progression of the disease. Our results demonstrate that CD4+/CD25+FoxP3+ Tregs are involved in the pathogenesis of severe influenza and indicate the potential of the MEK-inhibitor zapnometinib to modulate CD4+/CD25+FoxP3+ Tregs. Thus, making MEK-inhibitors even more promising for the treatment of severe influenza virus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Koch-Heier
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Annika Schönsiegel
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Raphael S. Zinser
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Planz
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
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Nikolic I, Ruiz-Garrido I, Crespo M, Romero-Becerra R, Leiva-Vega L, Mora A, León M, Rodríguez E, Leiva M, Plata-Gómez AB, Alvarez Flores MB, Torres JL, Hernández-Cosido L, López JA, Vázquez J, Efeyan A, Martin P, Marcos M, Sabio G. Lack of p38 activation in T cells increases IL-35 and protects against obesity by promoting thermogenesis. EMBO Rep 2024; 25:2635-2661. [PMID: 38730210 PMCID: PMC11169359 DOI: 10.1038/s44319-024-00149-y] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is characterized by low-grade inflammation, energy imbalance and impaired thermogenesis. The role of regulatory T cells (Treg) in inflammation-mediated maladaptive thermogenesis is not well established. Here, we find that the p38 pathway is a key regulator of T cell-mediated adipose tissue (AT) inflammation and browning. Mice with T cells specifically lacking the p38 activators MKK3/6 are protected against diet-induced obesity, leading to an improved metabolic profile, increased browning, and enhanced thermogenesis. We identify IL-35 as a driver of adipocyte thermogenic program through the ATF2/UCP1/FGF21 pathway. IL-35 limits CD8+ T cell infiltration and inflammation in AT. Interestingly, we find that IL-35 levels are reduced in visceral fat from obese patients. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that p38 controls the expression of IL-35 in human and mouse Treg cells through mTOR pathway activation. Our findings highlight p38 signaling as a molecular orchestrator of AT T cell accumulation and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Nikolic
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain.
| | - Irene Ruiz-Garrido
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - María Crespo
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | | | - Luis Leiva-Vega
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
- Programme of Molecular Oncology, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Alfonso Mora
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
- Programme of Molecular Oncology, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Marta León
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Elena Rodríguez
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
- Programme of Molecular Oncology, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Magdalena Leiva
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Ana Belén Plata-Gómez
- Programme of Molecular Oncology, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | | | - Jorge L Torres
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, 37007, Spain
- Complejo Asistencial de Zamora, Zamora, 49022, Spain
| | - Lourdes Hernández-Cosido
- Bariatric Surgery Unit, Department of General Surgery, University Hospital of Salamanca, Department of Surgery, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, 37007, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio López
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Jesús Vázquez
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Alejo Efeyan
- Programme of Molecular Oncology, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Pilar Martin
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Miguel Marcos
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Salamanca-IBSAL, Department of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, 37007, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Sabio
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, 28029, Spain.
- Programme of Molecular Oncology, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, 28029, Spain.
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Jacenik D. Tumor microenvironment and immune response: A gateway to novel therapies in gastrointestinal cancers. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167203. [PMID: 38688415 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Damian Jacenik
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of Cytobiochemistry, Lodz, Poland.
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4
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Wu S, Wang J, Zhang Z, Jin X, Xu Y, Si Y, Liang Y, Ge Y, Zhan H, Peng L, Bi W, Luo D, Li M, Meng B, Guan Q, Zhao J, Gao L, He Z. Shank3 deficiency elicits autistic-like behaviors by activating p38α in hypothalamic AgRP neurons. Mol Autism 2024; 15:14. [PMID: 38570876 PMCID: PMC10993499 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-024-00595-4] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains protein 3 (SHANK3) monogenic mutations or deficiency leads to excessive stereotypic behavior and impaired sociability, which frequently occur in autism cases. To date, the underlying mechanisms by which Shank3 mutation or deletion causes autism and the part of the brain in which Shank3 mutation leads to the autistic phenotypes are understudied. The hypothalamus is associated with stereotypic behavior and sociability. p38α, a mediator of inflammatory responses in the brain, has been postulated as a potential gene for certain cases of autism occurrence. However, it is unclear whether hypothalamus and p38α are involved in the development of autism caused by Shank3 mutations or deficiency. METHODS Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis and immunoblotting were used to assess alternated signaling pathways in the hypothalamus of Shank3 knockout (Shank3-/-) mice. Home-Cage real-time monitoring test was performed to record stereotypic behavior and three-chamber test was used to monitor the sociability of mice. Adeno-associated viruses 9 (AAV9) were used to express p38α in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) or agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons. D176A and F327S mutations expressed constitutively active p38α. T180A and Y182F mutations expressed inactive p38α. RESULTS We found that Shank3 controls stereotypic behavior and sociability by regulating p38α activity in AgRP neurons. Phosphorylated p38 level in hypothalamus is significantly enhanced in Shank3-/- mice. Consistently, overexpression of p38α in ARC or AgRP neurons elicits excessive stereotypic behavior and impairs sociability in wild-type (WT) mice. Notably, activated p38α in AgRP neurons increases stereotypic behavior and impairs sociability. Conversely, inactivated p38α in AgRP neurons significantly ameliorates autistic behaviors of Shank3-/- mice. In contrast, activated p38α in pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons does not affect stereotypic behavior and sociability in mice. LIMITATIONS We demonstrated that SHANK3 regulates the phosphorylated p38 level in the hypothalamus and inactivated p38α in AgRP neurons significantly ameliorates autistic behaviors of Shank3-/- mice. However, we did not clarify the biochemical mechanism of SHANK3 inhibiting p38α in AgRP neurons. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that the Shank3 deficiency caused autistic-like behaviors by activating p38α signaling in AgRP neurons, suggesting that p38α signaling in AgRP neurons is a potential therapeutic target for Shank3 mutant-related autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Zicheng Zhang
- School of Modern Posts, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, China
| | - Xinchen Jin
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Youwen Si
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics, Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences,East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Yixiao Liang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Yueping Ge
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Huidong Zhan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Li Peng
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Wenkai Bi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Dandan Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Mengzhu Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Bo Meng
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics, Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences,East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Department of Neurology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Qingbo Guan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Jiajun Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Ling Gao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Zhao He
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital & Medical Integration, and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 544 Jingsi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
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Cai Y, Chen J, Sun H, Zhou T, Cai X, Fu Y. Crosstalk between TRPV1 and immune regulation in Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. Clin Immunol 2023; 254:109701. [PMID: 37482117 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is the leading indication for corneal transplantation worldwide. Our aim was to investigate the role of transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) and the associated immune regulation contributing to this pathological condition. Significant upregulation of TRPV1 was detected in the H2O2-induced in vitro FECD model. Based on gene expression microarray dataset GSE142538 and in vitro results, a comprehensive immune landscape was studied and a negative correlation was found between TRPV1 with different immune cells, especially regulatory T cells (Tregs). Functional analyses of the 313 TRPV1-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) revealed the involvement of TRP-regulated calcium transport, as well as inflammatory and immune pathways. Four TRPV1-related core genes (MAPK14, GNB1, GNAQ, and ARRB2) were screened, validated by microarray dataset GSE112039 and the combined validation dataset E-GEAD-399 & 564, and verified by in vitro experiments. Our study suggested a potential crosstalk between TRPV1 and immune regulation contributing to FECD pathogenesis. The identified pivotal biomarkers and immune-related pathways provide a novel framework for future mechanistic and therapeutic studies of FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Cai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianyi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyao Cai
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yao Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China.
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Fallone L, Walzer T, Marçais A. Signaling Pathways Leading to mTOR Activation Downstream Cytokine Receptors in Lymphocytes in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12736. [PMID: 37628917 PMCID: PMC10454121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612736] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
CD8+ T cells and Natural Killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes important in the response to intracellular pathogens and cancer. Their activity depends on the integration of a large set of intracellular and environmental cues, including antigenic signals, cytokine stimulation and nutrient availability. This integration is achieved by signaling hubs, such as the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). mTOR is a conserved protein kinase that controls cellular growth and metabolism in eukaryotic cells and, therefore, is essential for lymphocyte development and maturation. However, our current understanding of mTOR signaling comes mostly from studies performed in transformed cell lines, which constitute a poor model for comprehending metabolic pathway regulation. Therefore, it is only quite recently that the regulation of mTOR in primary cells has been assessed. Here, we review the signaling pathways leading to mTOR activation in CD8+ T and NK cells, focusing on activation by cytokines. We also discuss how this knowledge can contribute to immunotherapy development, particularly for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Antoine Marçais
- CIRI—Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (Team Lyacts), Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007 Lyon, France; (L.F.); (T.W.)
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Jacenik D, Lebish EJ, Beswick EJ. MK2 drives progression of pancreas and colon cancers by suppressing CD8 + T cell cytotoxic function and is a potential immunotherapy target. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1212100. [PMID: 37415974 PMCID: PMC10321668 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1212100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Immune cell composition is a critical and dynamic component of the tumor microenvironment, which has an impact on immunosuppression and progression of cancer. T cells, especially CD8+ T cells, are one of the major immune cell types responsible for tumor cell killing employing receptor-ligand mediated apoptosis and/or releasing lytic granules among others. Accumulating evidence highlighted that adoptive transfer of activated and/or modified immune cells can enhance anti-tumorigenic immune responses and serve as promising therapy approach for patients with cancers. The mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2) is a serine/threonine protein kinase, which controls production and secretion of numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines involved in tumorigenesis. However, limited efforts have been made to learn how MK2 may affects CD8+ T cell action and function in the tumor microenvironment especially in gastrointestinal cancers. Methods To explore the therapeutic potential of MK2 in the immune response mediated by CD8+ T cells, RAG1 knockout mice with PK5L1940 and BRAF cells-derived allograft tumors were treated with WT or MK2 knockout CD8+ T cells. The phenotype of CD8+ T cells with MK2 depletion were evaluated in vitro. Immunofluorescence staining, real-time PCR and multiplex analysis were utilized to estimate the expression of apoptotic and lytic factors. Results Here, we show that CD8+ T cells with MK2 depletion prevent gastrointestinal cancer growth, which is accompanied by enhanced expression and secretion of factors related to apoptosis. Moreover, using in vitro and in vivo approaches, we found that depletion of MK2 lead to hyperactivation of CD8+ T cells and enhanced anti-tumor immunity. Conclusion Overall, we documented that MK2 drives the progression of gastrointestinal cancers and prevents immune response generated by CD8+ T cells suggesting potential implications of MK2 in the immunotherapy of gastrointestinal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian Jacenik
- Department of Cytobiochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Eric J. Lebish
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Ellen J. Beswick
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
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8
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Shi ZW, Zhu L, Song ZR, Liu TJ, Hao DJ. Roles of p38 MAPK signalling in intervertebral disc degeneration. Cell Prolif 2023:e13438. [PMID: 36872558 PMCID: PMC10392072 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a common degenerative disease mediated by multiple factors. Because of its complex aetiology and pathology, no specific molecular mechanisms have yet been identified and no definitive treatments are currently available for IVDD. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling, part of the serine and threonine (Ser/Thr) protein kinases family, is associated with the progression of IVDD, by mediating the inflammatory response, increasing extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, promoting cell apoptosis and senescence and suppressing cell proliferation and autophagy. Meanwhile, the inhibition of p38 MAPK signalling has a significant effect on IVDD treatment. In this review, we first summarize the regulation of p38 MAPK signalling and then highlight the changes in the expression of p38 MAPK signalling and their impact on pathological process of IVDD. Moreover, we discuss the current applications and future prospects of p38 MAPK as a therapeutic target for IVDD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Wei Shi
- Department of Spine Surgery, Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Zong-Rang Song
- Department of Spine Surgery, Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Tuan-Jiang Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Ding-Jun Hao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, China
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9
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Jiménez-Andrade Y, Hillette KR, Yoshida T, Kashiwagi M, Choo MK, Liang Y, Georgopoulos K, Park JM. The Developmental Transcription Factor p63 Is Redeployed to Drive Allergic Skin Inflammation through Phosphorylation by p38α. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 208:2613-2621. [PMID: 35623662 PMCID: PMC9308733 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2101160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Keratinocytes, the epithelial cells of the skin, reprogram their gene expression and produce immune effector molecules when exposed to environmental and endogenous triggers of inflammation. It remains unclear how keratinocytes process physiological signals generated during skin irritation and switch from a homeostatic to an inflammatory state. In this article, we show that the stress-activated protein kinase p38α is crucial for keratinocytes to prompt changes in their transcriptome upon cytokine stimulation and drive inflammation in allergen-exposed skin. p38α serves this function by phosphorylating p63, a transcription factor essential for the lineage identity and stemness of the skin epithelium. Phosphorylation by p38α alters the activity of p63 and redeploys this developmental transcription factor to a gene expression program linked to inflammation. Genetic ablation and pharmacological inhibition of p38α or the p38α-p63 target gene product MMP13 attenuate atopic dermatitis-like disease in mice. Our study reveals an epithelial molecular pathway promoting skin inflammation and actionable through treatment with topical small-molecule therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanek Jiménez-Andrade
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA
| | - Kathryn R Hillette
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA
| | - Toshimi Yoshida
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA
- International Research Center for Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; and
| | - Mariko Kashiwagi
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA
| | - Min-Kyung Choo
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA
| | - Yinming Liang
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Katia Georgopoulos
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA
| | - Jin Mo Park
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA;
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10
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Kudaravalli S, den Hollander P, Mani SA. Role of p38 MAP kinase in cancer stem cells and metastasis. Oncogene 2022; 41:3177-3185. [PMID: 35501462 PMCID: PMC9166676 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02329-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic resistance and metastatic progression are responsible for the majority of cancer mortalities. In particular, the development of resistance is a significant barrier to the efficacy of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) underlie treatment resistance and metastasis. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) is downstream of several CSC-specific signaling pathways, and it plays an important role in CSC development and maintenance and contributes to metastasis and chemoresistance. Therefore, the development of therapeutic approaches targeting p38 can sensitize tumors to chemotherapy and prevent metastatic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriya Kudaravalli
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Petra den Hollander
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sendurai A Mani
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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11
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Signaling pathway(s) of TNFR2 required for the immunoregulatory effect of CD4 +Foxp3 + regulatory T cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 108:108823. [PMID: 35623290 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), a subpopulation of CD4+ T cells, are engaged in maintaining the periphery tolerance and preventing autoimmunity. Recent studies showed that tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2) is preferentially expressed by Tregs and the expression of this receptor identifies the maximally suppressive Tregs. That is, TNFR2 is a liable phenotypic and functional surface marker of Tregs. Moreover, TNF activates and expands Tregs through TNFR2. However, it is very interesting which signaling pathway(s) of TNFR2 is required for the inhibitory effect of Tregs. Compelling evidence shows three TNFR2 signaling pathways in Tregs, including NF-κB, MAPK and PI3K-Akt pathways. Here, we summarize and discuss the latest progress in the studies on the downstream signaling pathways of TNF-TNFR2 for controlling Treg homeostasis, differentiation and proliferation.
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12
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The p38 MAPK Components and Modulators as Biomarkers and Molecular Targets in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010370. [PMID: 35008796 PMCID: PMC8745478 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family is an important bridge in the transduction of extracellular and intracellular signals in different responses at the cellular level. Within this MAPK family, the p38 kinases can be found altered in various diseases, including cancer, where these kinases play a fundamental role, sometimes with antagonistic mechanisms of action, depending on several factors. In fact, this family has an immense number of functionalities, many of them yet to be discovered in terms of regulation and action in different types of cancer, being directly involved in the response to cancer therapies. To date, three main groups of MAPKs have been identified in mammals: the extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and the different isoforms of p38 (α, β, γ, δ). In this review, we highlight the mechanism of action of these kinases, taking into account their extensive regulation at the cellular level through various modifications and modulations, including a wide variety of microRNAs. We also analyze the importance of the different isoforms expressed in the different tissues and their possible role as biomarkers and molecular targets. In addition, we include the latest preclinical and clinical trials with different p38-related drugs that are ongoing with hopeful expectations in the present/future of developing precision medicine in cancer.
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13
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Cicuéndez B, Ruiz-Garrido I, Mora A, Sabio G. Stress kinases in the development of liver steatosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Metab 2021; 50:101190. [PMID: 33588102 PMCID: PMC8324677 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an important component of metabolic syndrome and one of the most prevalent liver diseases worldwide. This disorder is closely linked to hepatic insulin resistance, lipotoxicity, and inflammation. Although the mechanisms that cause steatosis and chronic liver injury in NAFLD remain unclear, a key component of this process is the activation of stress-activated kinases (SAPKs), including p38 and JNK in the liver and immune system. This review summarizes findings which indicate that the dysregulation of stress kinases plays a fundamental role in the development of steatosis and are important players in inducing liver fibrosis. To avoid the development of steatohepatitis and liver cancer, SAPK activity must be tightly regulated not only in the hepatocytes but also in other tissues, including cells of the immune system. Possible cellular mechanisms of SAPK actions are discussed. Hepatic JNK triggers steatosis and insulin resistance, decreasing lipid oxidation and ketogenesis in HFD-fed mice. Decreased liver expression of p38α/β in HFD increases lipogenesis. Hepatic p38γ/δ drive insulin resistance and inhibit autophagy, which may lead to steatosis. Macrophage p38α/β promote cytokine production and M1 polarization, leading to lipid accumulation in hepatocytes. Myeloid p38γ/δ contribute to cytokine production and neutrophil migration, protecting against steatosis, diabetes and NAFLD. JNK1 and p38γ induce HCC while p38α blocks it. However, deletion of hepatic JNK1/2 induces cholangiocarcinoma. SAPK are potential therapeutic target for metabolic disorders, steatohepatitis and liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Cicuéndez
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Ruiz-Garrido
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Mora
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Guadalupe Sabio
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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14
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Canovas B, Nebreda AR. Diversity and versatility of p38 kinase signalling in health and disease. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2021; 22:346-366. [PMID: 33504982 PMCID: PMC7838852 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-020-00322-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 78.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The ability of cells to deal with different types of stressful situations in a precise and coordinated manner is key for survival and involves various signalling networks. Over the past 25 years, p38 kinases — in particular, p38α — have been implicated in the cellular response to stress at many levels. These span from environmental and intracellular stresses, such as hyperosmolarity, oxidative stress or DNA damage, to physiological situations that involve important cellular changes such as differentiation. Given that p38α controls a plethora of functions, dysregulation of this pathway has been linked to diseases such as inflammation, immune disorders or cancer, suggesting the possibility that targeting p38α could be of therapeutic interest. In this Review, we discuss the organization of this signalling pathway focusing on the diversity of p38α substrates, their mechanisms and their links to particular cellular functions. We then address how the different cellular responses can be generated depending on the signal received and the cell type, and highlight the roles of this kinase in human physiology and in pathological contexts. p38α — the best-characterized member of the p38 kinase family — is a key mediator of cellular stress responses. p38α is activated by a plethora of signals and functions through a multitude of substrates to regulate different cellular behaviours. Understanding context-dependent p38α signalling provides important insights into p38α roles in physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Begoña Canovas
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angel R Nebreda
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain. .,ICREA, Barcelona, Spain.
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15
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Alam JJ, Krakovsky M, Germann U, Levy A. Continuous administration of a p38α inhibitor during the subacute phase after transient ischemia-induced stroke in the rat promotes dose-dependent functional recovery accompanied by increase in brain BDNF protein level. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233073. [PMID: 33275615 PMCID: PMC7717516 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
There is unmet need for effective stroke therapies. Numerous neuroprotection attempts for acute cerebral ischemia have failed and as a result there is growing interest in developing therapies to promote functional recovery through increasing synaptic plasticity. For this research study, we hypothesized that in addition to its previously reported role in mediating cell death during the acute phase, the alpha isoform of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, p38α, may also contribute to interleukin-1β-mediated impairment of functional recovery during the subacute phase after acute ischemic stroke. Accordingly, an oral, brain-penetrant, small molecule p38α inhibitor, neflamapimod, was evaluated as a subacute phase stroke treatment to promote functional recovery. Neflamapimod administration to rats after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion at two dose levels was initiated outside of the previously characterized therapeutic window for neuroprotection of less than 24 hours for p38α inhibitors. Six-week administration of neflamapimod, starting at 48 hours after reperfusion, significantly improved behavioral outcomes assessed by the modified neurological severity score at Week 4 and at Week 6 post stroke in a dose-dependent manner. Neflamapimod demonstrated beneficial effects on additional measures of sensory and motor function. It also resulted in a dose-related increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein levels, a previously reported potential marker of synaptic plasticity that was measured in brain homogenates at sacrifice. Taken together with literature evidence on the role of p38α-dependent suppression by interleukin-1β of BDNF-mediated synaptic plasticity and BDNF production, our findings support a mechanistic model in which inhibition of p38α promotes functional recovery after ischemic stroke by blocking the deleterious effects of interleukin-1β on synaptic plasticity. The dose-related in vivo efficacy of neflamapimod offers the possibility of having a therapy for stroke that could be initiated outside the short time window for neuroprotection and for improving recovery after a completed stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J. Alam
- EIP Pharma, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Ursula Germann
- EIP Pharma, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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16
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DAF-16 and SMK-1 Contribute to Innate Immunity During Adulthood in Caenorhabditis elegans. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2020; 10:1521-1539. [PMID: 32161087 PMCID: PMC7202018 DOI: 10.1534/g3.120.401166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Aging is accompanied by a progressive decline in immune function termed "immunosenescence". Deficient surveillance coupled with the impaired function of immune cells compromises host defense in older animals. The dynamic activity of regulatory modules that control immunity appears to underlie age-dependent modifications to the immune system. In the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans levels of PMK-1 p38 MAP kinase diminish over time, reducing the expression of immune effectors that clear bacterial pathogens. Along with the PMK-1 pathway, innate immunity in C. elegans is regulated by the insulin signaling pathway. Here we asked whether DAF-16, a Forkhead box (FOXO) transcription factor whose activity is inhibited by insulin signaling, plays a role in host defense later in life. While in younger C. elegans DAF-16 is inactive unless stimulated by environmental insults, we found that even in the absence of acute stress the transcriptional activity of DAF-16 increases in an age-dependent manner. Beginning in the reproductive phase of adulthood, DAF-16 upregulates a subset of its transcriptional targets, including genes required to kill ingested microbes. Accordingly, DAF-16 has little to no role in larval immunity, but functions specifically during adulthood to confer resistance to bacterial pathogens. We found that DAF-16-mediated immunity in adults requires SMK-1, a regulatory subunit of the PP4 protein phosphatase complex. Our data suggest that as the function of one branch of the innate immune system of C. elegans (PMK-1) declines over time, DAF-16-mediated immunity ramps up to become the predominant means of protecting adults from infection, thus reconfiguring immunity later in life.
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17
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Breuer J, Schneider-Hohendorf T, Ostkamp P, Herich S, Rakhade S, Antonijevic I, Klotz L, Wiendl H, Schwab N. VLA-2 blockade in vivo by vatelizumab induces CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells. Int Immunol 2020; 31:407-412. [PMID: 30783682 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxz018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrin α2β1, also known as very late antigen (VLA)-2, is a collagen-binding molecule expressed constitutively on platelets. Vatelizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the α2 subunit (CD49b) of VLA-2, was recently investigated for its safety and efficacy during a Phase 2 clinical study in multiple sclerosis patients, as integrin-mediated collagen binding at the site of inflammation is central to a number of downstream pro-inflammatory events. In the course of this study, we could show that VLA-2 is expressed ex vivo on platelets, platelet-T-cell aggregates, as well as a small population of highly activated memory T cells. Even though the clinical trial did not meet its primary clinical end-point (reduction in the cumulative number of new contrast-enhancing lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)), we observed enhanced frequencies of regulatory T cells (TREG) following vatelizumab treatment. Elevated TREG frequencies might be explained by the inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, which is critically involved in the polarization of T helper 17 (TH17) cells and is activated by the α2 integrin cytoplasmic domain. Our findings suggest that blockade of VLA-2 might be a way to safely shift the TH17/TREG balance by inducing TREGin vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Breuer
- Clinic of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Tilman Schneider-Hohendorf
- Clinic of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Patrick Ostkamp
- Clinic of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sebastian Herich
- Clinic of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | | | - Luisa Klotz
- Clinic of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Heinz Wiendl
- Clinic of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nicholas Schwab
- Clinic of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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18
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p38 MAPK signalling regulates cytokine production in IL-33 stimulated Type 2 Innate Lymphoid cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3479. [PMID: 32103032 PMCID: PMC7044202 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60089-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 Innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are implicated in helminth infections and asthma where they play a role in the production of Th2-type cytokines. ILC2s express the IL-33 receptor and are a major cell type thought to mediate the effects of this cytokine in vivo. To study the signalling pathways that mediate IL-33 induced cytokine production, a culture system was set up to obtain pure populations of ILC2s from mice. Inhibitors of the p38α/β and ERK1/2 MAPK pathways reduced the production of IL-5, IL-6, IL-9, IL-13 and GM-CSF by ILC2 in response to IL-33, with inhibition of p38 having the greatest effect. MK2 and 3 are kinases activated by p38α; MK2/3 inhibitors or knockout of MK2/3 in mice reduced the production of IL-6 and IL-13 (two cytokines implicated in asthma) but not IL-5, IL-9 or GM-CSF in response to IL-33. MK2/3 inhibition also suppressed IL-6 and IL-13 production by human ILC2s. MK2/3 were required for maximal S6 phosphorylation, suggesting an input from the p38α-MK2/3 pathway to mTOR1 activation in ILC2s. The mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin also reduced IL-6 and IL-13 production, which would be consistent with a model in which MK2/3 regulate IL-6 and IL-13 via mTORC1 activation in ILC2s.
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19
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Hose M, Günther A, Abberger H, Begum S, Korencak M, Becker KA, Buer J, Westendorf AM, Hansen W. T Cell-Specific Overexpression of Acid Sphingomyelinase Results in Elevated T Cell Activation and Reduced Parasitemia During Plasmodium yoelii Infection. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1225. [PMID: 31214184 PMCID: PMC6554418 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The enzyme acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) hydrolyzes sphingomyelin to ceramide and is thereby involved in several cellular processes such as differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis in different cell types. However, the function of ASM in T cells is still not well characterized. Here, we used T cell-specific ASM overexpressing mice (t-ASM/CD4cre) to clarify the impact of cell-intrinsic ASM activity on T cell function in vitro and in vivo. We showed that t-ASM/CD4cre mice exhibit decreased frequencies of Foxp3+ T regulatory cells (Tregs) within the spleen. Enforced T cell-specific ASM expression resulted in less efficient induction of Tregs and promoted differentiation of CD4+CD25− naïve T cells into IFN-γ producing Th1 cells in vitro. Further analysis revealed that ASM-overexpressing T cells from t-ASM/CD4cre mice show elevated T cell receptor (TCR) signaling activity accompanied with increased proliferation upon stimulation in vitro. Plasmodium yoelii infection of t-ASM/CD4cre mice resulted in enhanced T cell activation and was associated with reduced parasitemia in comparison to infected control mice. Hence, our results provide evidence that ASM activity modulates T cell function in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Hose
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Anne Günther
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hanna Abberger
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Salina Begum
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marek Korencak
- Institute for HIV Research, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Katrin A Becker
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jan Buer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Astrid M Westendorf
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Wiebke Hansen
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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20
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Alvarez F, Fritz JH, Piccirillo CA. Pleiotropic Effects of IL-33 on CD4 + T Cell Differentiation and Effector Functions. Front Immunol 2019; 10:522. [PMID: 30949175 PMCID: PMC6435597 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
IL-33, a member of the IL-1 family of cytokines, was originally described in 2005 as a promoter of type 2 immune responses. However, recent evidence reveals a more complex picture. This cytokine is released locally as an alarmin upon cellular damage where innate cell types respond to IL-33 by modulating their differentiation and influencing the polarizing signals they provide to T cells at the time of antigen presentation. Moreover, the prominent expression of the IL-33 receptor, ST2, on GATA3+ T helper 2 cells (TH2) demonstrated that IL-33 could have a direct impact on T cells. Recent observations reveal that T-bet+ TH1 cells and Foxp3+ regulatory T (TREG) cells can also express the ST2 receptor, either transiently or permanently. As such, IL-33 can have a direct effect on the dynamics of T cell populations. As IL-33 release was shown to play both an inflammatory and a suppressive role, understanding the complex effect of this cytokine on T cell homeostasis is paramount. In this review, we will focus on the factors that modulate ST2 expression on T cells, the effect of IL-33 on helper T cell responses and the role of IL-33 on TREG cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Alvarez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Program in Infectious Diseases and Immunology in Global Health, Centre for Translational Biology, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre of Excellence in Translational Immunology, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jörg H. Fritz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre of Excellence in Translational Immunology, Montréal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Research Center on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ciriaco A. Piccirillo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Program in Infectious Diseases and Immunology in Global Health, Centre for Translational Biology, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre of Excellence in Translational Immunology, Montréal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Research Center on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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21
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Xu Y, Melo-Cardenas J, Zhang Y, Gau I, Wei J, Montauti E, Zhang Y, Gao B, Jin H, Sun Z, Lee SM, Fang D. The E3 ligase Hrd1 stabilizes Tregs by antagonizing inflammatory cytokine-induced ER stress response. JCI Insight 2019; 4:121887. [PMID: 30843874 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.121887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Treg differentiation, maintenance, and function are controlled by the transcription factor FoxP3, which can be destabilized under inflammatory or other pathological conditions. Tregs can be destabilized under inflammatory or other pathological conditions, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully defined. Herein, we show that inflammatory cytokines induce ER stress response, which destabilizes Tregs by suppressing FoxP3 expression, suggesting a critical role of the ER stress response in maintaining Treg stability. Indeed, genetic deletion of Hrd1, an E3 ligase critical in suppressing the ER stress response, leads to elevated expression of ER stress-responsive genes in Treg and largely diminishes Treg suppressive functions under inflammatory condition. Mice with Treg-specific ablation of Hrd1 displayed massive multiorgan lymphocyte infiltration, body weight loss, and the development of severe small intestine inflammation with aging. At the molecular level, the deletion of Hrd1 led to the activation of both the ER stress sensor IRE1α and its downstream MAPK p38. Pharmacological suppression of IRE1α kinase, but not its endoribonuclease activity, diminished the elevated p38 activation and fully rescued the stability of Hrd1-null Tregs. Taken together, our studies reveal ER stress response as a previously unappreciated mechanism underlying Treg instability and that Hrd1 is crucial for maintaining Treg stability and functions through suppressing the IRE1α-mediated ER stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanming Xu
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Johanna Melo-Cardenas
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Yana Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Isabella Gau
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Juncheng Wei
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Elena Montauti
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Yusi Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Beixue Gao
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Hongjian Jin
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Zhaolin Sun
- Department of Pharmacology School of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Sang-Myeong Lee
- Division of Biotechnology, Advanced Institute of Environment and Bioscience, College of Environmental and Bioresource Sciences, Chonbuk National University, Iksan, South Korea
| | - Deyu Fang
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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22
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He T, Liu S, Chen S, Ye J, Wu X, Bian Z, Chen X. The p38 MAPK Inhibitor SB203580 Abrogates Tumor Necrosis Factor-Induced Proliferative Expansion of Mouse CD4 +Foxp3 + Regulatory T Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1556. [PMID: 30038619 PMCID: PMC6046375 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
There is now compelling evidence that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) preferentially activates and expands CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) through TNF receptor type II (TNFR2). However, it remains unclear which signaling transduction pathway(s) of TNFR2 is required for the stimulation of Tregs. Previously, it was shown that the interaction of TNF–TNFR2 resulted in the activation of a number of signaling pathways, including p38 MAPK, NF-κB, in T cells. We thus examined the role of p38 MAPK and NF-κB in TNF-mediated activation of Tregs, by using specific small molecule inhibitors. The results show that treatment with specific p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580, rather than NF-κB inhibitors (Sulfasalazine and Bay 11-7082), abrogated TNF-induced expansion of Tregs in vitro. Furthermore, upregulation of TNFR2 and Foxp3 expression in Tregs by TNF was also markedly inhibited by SB203580. The proliferative expansion and the upregulation of TNFR2 expression on Tregs in LPS-treated mice were mediated by TNF–TNFR2 interaction, as shown by our previous study. The expansion of Tregs in LPS-treated mice were also markedly inhibited by in vivo treatment with SB203580. Taken together, our data clearly indicate that the activation of p38 MAPK is attributable to TNF/TNFR2-mediated activation and proliferative expansion of Tregs. Our results also suggest that targeting of p38 MAPK by pharmacological agent may represent a novel strategy to up- or downregulation of Treg activity for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhen He
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Shuoyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Shaokui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Jingyi Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Xueqiang Wu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Aerospace General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoxiang Bian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
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23
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Risco A, Martin-Serrano MA, Barber DF, Cuenda A. p38γ and p38δ Are Involved in T Lymphocyte Development. Front Immunol 2018; 9:65. [PMID: 29434594 PMCID: PMC5796910 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal transduction pathways are essential regulators of the immune response. Particularly, p38γ and p38δ regulate many immune cell functions such as cytokine production, migration, or T cell activation; however, their involvement in immune cell development is largely unknown. Here, we analysed the role of p38 MAPK isoforms p38γ and p38δ in T cell differentiation in the thymus and in lymph nodes, using mice deficient in p38γ, p38δ, or in both. We found that the T cell differentiation program in the thymus was affected at different stages in p38γ-, p38δ-, and p38γ/δ-deficient mice, and also peripheral T cell homaeostasis was compromised. Particularly, p38δ deletion affects different stages of early CD4−CD8− double-negative thymocyte development, whereas lack of p38γ favours thymocyte positive selection from CD4+CD8+ double-positive to CD4+ or CD8+ single-positive cells. Our results identify unreported functions for p38γ and p38δ in T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Risco
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A Martin-Serrano
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Domingo F Barber
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Cuenda
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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