Altered Levels of Negative Costimulatory Molecule V-Set Domain-Containing T-Cell Activation Inhibitor-1 (VTCN1) and Metalloprotease Nardilysin (NRD1) are Associated with Generalized Active Vitiligo

Soluble form of immune checkpoints in autoimmune diseases

Immune checkpoints are essential regulators of immune responses, either by activating or suppressing them. Consequently, they are regarded as pivotal elements in the management of infections, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. In recent years, researchers have identified numerous soluble immune checkpoints that are produced through various mechanisms and demonstrated biological activity. These soluble immune checkpoints can be produced and distributed in the bloodstream and various tissues, with their roles in immune response dysregulation and autoimmunity extensively documented. This review aims to provide a thorough overview of the generation of various soluble immune checkpoints, such as sPD-1, sCTLA-4, sTim-3, s4-1BB, sBTLA, sLAG-3, sCD200, and the B7 family, and their importance as indicators for the diagnosis and prediction of autoimmune conditions. Furthermore, the review will investigate the potential pathological mechanisms of soluble immune checkpoints in autoimmune diseases, emphasizing their association with autoimmune diseases development, prognosis, and treatment.

V-set domain containing T-cell activation inhibitor-1 (VTCN1): A potential target for the treatment of autoimmune diseases

Autoimmunity eventuates when the immune system attacks self-molecules as a result of the breakdown in immune tolerance. Targeting autoimmune diseases via immunomodulation has become an essential strategy in today's era. A B7 superfamily member immune checkpoint, the V-set domain containing T-cell activation inhibitor-1 (VTCN1), also known as B7-H4, B7S1, and B7x, is involved in negatively regulating T-cell activation. VTCN1 transcript has been reported in various lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissues, but its protein expression is restricted, indicating its translational regulation. Dysregulation of VTCN1 has resulted in the exacerbation of various autoimmune diseases. Moreover, increased soluble form of VTCN1 in the patient's sera positively correlates with the disease progression and severity. The current review summarizes all the reports till date, unfolding the role of VTCN1 in various autoimmune diseases and its therapeutic potential.