Immunosteroid as a regulator for Th1/Th2 balance: Its possible role in autoimmune diseases

MRPL48 is a novel prognostic and predictive biomarker of hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer and poses a threat to the health and survival of humans. Mitochondrial ribosomal protein L48 (MRPL48) belongs to the mitochondrial ribosomal protein family, which participates in energy production. Studies have shown that MRPL48 can predict osteosarcoma incidence and prognosis, as well as promotes colorectal cancer progression. However, the role of MRPL48 in HCC remains unknown.

METHODS

TCGA, GEO, HCCDB, CPTAC, SMART, UALCAN, Kaplan-Meier plotter, cBioPortal, and MethSurv were performed for bioinformatics purposes. Quantitative RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and functional studies were conducted to validate the methodology in vitro.

RESULTS

MRPL48 was greatly overexpressed in HCC tissues, compared with healthy tissue, which was subsequently demonstrated in vitro as well. The survival and regression analyses showed that MRPL48 expression is of significant clinical prognostic value in HCC. The ROC curve and nomogram analysis indicated that MRPL48 is a powerful predictor of HCC. MRPL48 methylation was adversely associated with the expression of MRPL48, and patients with a low level of methylation had poorer overall survival than those with a high level of methylation. GSEA showed that the expression of the MRPL48 was correlated with Resolution of Sister Chromatid Cohesion, Mitotic Prometaphase, Retinoblastoma Gene in Cancer, RHO Gtpases Activate Formins, Mitotic Metaphase and Anaphase, and Cell Cycle Checkpoints. An analysis of immune cell infiltration showed a significant association between MRPL48 and immune cell infiltration subsets, which impacted the survival of HCC patients. Additionally, MRPL48 knockdown reduced HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that MRPL48 expression may be associated with HCC development and prognosis. These findings may open up new research directions and opportunities for the development of HCC treatments.

Bone Metabolite Profile Differs between Normal and Femur Head Necrosis (FHN/BCO)-Affected Broilers: Implications for Dysregulated Metabolic Cascades in FHN Pathophysiology

Femur head necrosis (FHN), also known as bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO), has remained an animal welfare and production concern for modern broilers regardless of efforts to select against it in primary breeder flocks. Characterized by the bacterial infection of weak bone, FHN has been found in birds without clinical lameness and remains only detectable via necropsy. This presents an opportunity to utilize untargeted metabolomics to elucidate potential non-invasive biomarkers and key causative pathways involved in FHN pathology. The current study used ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS) and identified a total of 152 metabolites. Mean intensity differences at p < 0.05 were found in 44 metabolites, with 3 significantly down-regulated and 41 up-regulated in FHN-affected bone. Multivariate analysis and a partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) scores plot showed the distinct clustering of metabolite profiles from FHN-affected vs. normal bone. Biologically related molecular networks were predicted using an ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) knowledge base. Using a fold-change cut off of -1.5 and 1.5, top canonical pathways, networks, diseases, molecular functions, and upstream regulators were generated using the 44 differentially abundant metabolites. The results showed the metabolites NAD+, NADP+, and NADH to be downregulated, while 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR) and histamine were significantly increased in FHN. Ascorbate recycling and purine nucleotides degradation were the top canonical pathways, indicating the potential dysregulation of redox homeostasis and osteogenesis. Lipid metabolism and cellular growth and proliferation were some of the top molecular functions predicted based on the metabolite profile in FHN-affected bone. Network analysis showed significant overlap across metabolites and predicted upstream and downstream complexes, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), insulin, collagen type IV, mitochondrial complex, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (Jnk), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β HSD). The qPCR analysis of relevant factors showed a significant decrease in AMPKα2 mRNA expression in FHN-affected bone, supporting the predicted downregulation found in the IPA network analysis. Taken as a whole, these results demonstrate a shift in energy production, bone homeostasis, and bone cell differentiation that is distinct in FHN-affected bone, with implications for how metabolites drive the pathology of FHN.

The Characterization of the Th1/Th2 Ratio in Moderate-Severe Alzheimer's Disease Patients and Its Response to an Aloe Polymannose-Based Dietary Supplement

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a leading killer of Americans, imparting a tremendous societal toll. Relationships between immune function and inflammation with cognition are well-established in AD, but the Th1/Th2 ratio of immune function is unknown. Describing the Th1/Th2 ratio and its relationship with cognition may shed light on the disease's clinical context. How the Th1/Th2 ratio responds to dietary supplementation is another unknown question in this population.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of the study were to: 1) characterize the Th1/Th2 ratio according to IL-2/IL-10, IFN-γ/IL-10, IL-2/IL-4, IFN-γ/IL-4, IL-2/TNF-α, and IFN-γ/TNF-α in subjects with moderate-to-severe AD and in comparison to healthy adults; 2) investigate the effect of an aloe polymannose multinutrient complex (APMC) dietary supplement on the Th1/Th2 ratios over 12 months; and 3) compare the changes in the Th1/Th2 ratios with the changes in cognition from baseline to 12 months.

METHODS

Subjects consumed 2.5 g of the APMC four times per day for 12 months, and they were assessed on cognition and cytokines at baseline and 12 months.

RESULTS

The Th1/Th2 ratios in AD patients were significantly higher than the healthy controls, and five of the six ratios decreased from baseline to 12 months follow-up (other than IL-2/TNF-α). Several significant relationships were noted between the changes in Th1/Th2 ratios with cognitive assessments.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed an overall rebalancing of the Th1/Th2 ratio in response to APMC, these changes were related to improved cognition in subjects with moderate-to-severe AD, and the APMC supplement was safely tolerated.

Effect of IL-10 in the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS patients with cryptococcal meningitis

This study aimed to explore the role of IL-10 in the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS patients with cryptococcal meningitis (CM).Patients were assigned into 4 groups (n = 40/group): group A (HIV/AIDS with CM), group B (HIV/AIDS with tuberculosis), group C (HIV/AIDS), and group D (CM). The levels of IL-10 and associated indicators were measured and the correlations were analyzed by Pearson correlation and partial correlation method. In plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), no significant difference was observed on IL-10 level between group A and other groups (P > 0.050). R values for IL-10 and relevant indicators in blood were as follows (P < 0.050): group A, IFN-γ (-0.377), IL-12 (0.743), IL-4 (0.881), and IL-6 (0.843); group B, IL-12 (0.740), IL-4 (0.573), and IL-6 (0.900); group C, IL-12 (0.402) and IL-4 (0.896); group D, IL-12 (0.575), IL-4 (0.852), and CD8 (0.325). R values for IL-10 and related indicators in CSF were as follows (P < 0.050): group A, TNF-α (0.664), IL-4 (0.852), white blood cells (WBCs, 0.321) and total protein (TP, 0.330); group B, TNF-α (0.566), IL-4 (0.702), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, 0.382); group D, IFN-γ (0.807) and IL-4 (0.441). IL-10 level was positively correlated with IL-4, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, WBC, and TP in blood or CSF, and negatively correlated with IFN-γ in blood, suggesting that IL-10 affected both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory activities in the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS with CM.

High-progesterone environment preserves T cell competency by evading glucocorticoid effects on immune regulation

Progesterone (P4) and glucocorticoid (GC) play crucial roles in the immunoregulation of a mother to accept and maintain a semi-allogenic fetus. P4 concentration increases during pregnancy and becomes much higher in the placenta than in the other peripheral tissues, wherein the concentration of cortisol (COR), the most abundant GC and a strong immunosuppressor, remains uniform throughout the rest of the body. Here, we evaluated the effect of a high-P4 environment on pregnant immunity by comparing it with COR. Naïve T cell proportion increased transiently in peripheral blood of pregnant women just after delivery and decreased after one month. T cells stimulated with superantigen toxic-shock-syndrome-1 (TSST-1) in the presence of P4 stayed in the naïve state and did not increase, irrespective of the presence of COR, and reactive T cells could not survive. Treatment of T cells with P4 without T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation transiently suppressed T cell activation and proliferation, whereas the levels remain unaltered if P4 was not given before stimulation. Comparison of the engraftment and response against specific antigens using hu-PBL-NOG-hIL-4-Tg mice showed that P4-pretreated lymphocytes preserved CD62L expression and engrafted effectively in the spleen. Moreover, they produced antigen-specific antibodies, whereas COR-pretreated lymphocytes did not. These results suggest that a high-P4 environment suppresses T cell activation and induces T cell migration into lymphoid tissues, where they maintain the ability to produce anti-pathogen antibodies, whereas COR does not preserve T cell function. The mechanism may be pivotal in maintaining non-fetus-specific T cell function in pregnancy.

Spindle and Kinetochore-associated Family Genes are Prognostic and Predictive Biomarkers in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent malignant tumors. Spindle and kinetochore-associated (SKA) family genes are essential for the maintenance of the metaphase plate and spindle checkpoint silencing during mitosis. Recent studies have indicated that dysregulation of SKA family genes induces tumorigenesis, tumor progression, and chemoresistance via modulation of cell cycle and DNA replication. However, the differential transcription of SKAs in the context of HCC and its prognostic significance has not been demonstrated.

METHODS

Bioinformatics analyses were performed using TCGA, ONCOMINE, HCCDB, Kaplan-Meier plotter, STRING, GEPIA databases. qRT-PCR, western blot, and functional assays were utilized for in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

We found remarkable upregulation of transcripts of SKA family genes in HCC samples compared with normal liver samples on bioinformatics analyses and in vitro validation. Interaction analysis and enrichment analysis showed that SKA family members were mainly related to microtubule motor activity, mitosis, and cell cycle. Immuno-infiltration analysis showed a correlation of all SKA family genes with various immune cell subsets, especially T helper 2 (Th2) cells. Transcriptional levels of SKA family members were positively associated with histologic grade, T stage, and α-fetoprotein in HCC patients. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated a strong predictive ability of SKA1/2/3 for HCC. Increased expression of these SKAs was associated with unfavorable overall survival, progression-free survival, and disease-specific survival. On Cox proportional hazards regression analyses, SKA1 upregulation and pathological staging were independent predictors of overall survival and disease-specific survival of HCC patients. Finally, clinical tissue microarray validation and in vitro functional assays revealed SKA1 acts an important regulatory role in tumor malignant behavior.

CONCLUSIONS

SKA family members may potentially serve as diagnostic and prognostic markers in the context of HCC. The correlation between SKAs and immune cell infiltration provides a promising research direction for SKA-targeted immunotherapeutics for HCC.

Saireito (114) Increases IC50 and Changes T-Cell Phenotype When Used in Combination with Prednisolone Therapy in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells

Prednisolone (PSL), a type of corticosteroid used to treat autoimmune diseases, can increase the risk of infection and osteoporosis. Saireito (114), a Kampo medicine, has an immunosuppressive effect; with its use, the dose of steroids can be reduced. However, its mechanism when used with PSL is still unclear. We used peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy adults to examine the effect of 114 and PSL treatment on PBMC proliferation, T-cell subsets, and cytokine production. PBMCs were cotreated with concanavalin A and 300 μM 114 (either Tsumura & Co. (TJ) or Kracie Holdings (KR)) and 0.0001–1.0 μM PSL for 96 h to create the T-cell mitogen. We then measured the PBMC proliferation; ratio of CD4⁺ T cells, CD8⁺ T cells, and T-follicular helper (Tfh) cells; and concentration of cytokines (TNF, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, and IL-21). The proliferation of PBMCs was dose dependently suppressed in both the PSL and PSL + 114 groups (p  <  0.05). Combination therapy increased the IC₅₀ in the PSL group (0.0947 μM) by 2.02 and 1.64-fold in the PSL + TJ114 and PSL + KR114 groups, respectively. Both the PSL + 114 groups had an increased ratio of CD4⁺ T cells compared to the PSL group, with no effect on the ratio of CD8⁺ T and Tfh cells. Furthermore, the PSL + 114 groups showed increased IL-6 and IL-10 compared to the PSL monotherapy group, although the difference was not significant. There was no significant difference in the TNF, IFN-γ, IL-17A, and IL-21 concentrations between the PSL and PSL + 114 groups. The elevated IC₅₀ with 114 cotreatment suggests diminished immunosuppressive action. Moreover, increased cytokine production by Th2 with 114 cotreatment suggests a restoration of T-cell balance in Th1-mediated autoimmune diseases. However, increased IL-6 suggests potential exacerbation of IL-6-mediated diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor these clinical parameters when using 114 in combination with PSL.

Glucocorticoid production in the thymus and brain: Immunosteroids and neurosteroids

Glucocorticoids (GCs) regulate a myriad of physiological systems, such as the immune and nervous systems. Systemic GC levels in blood are often measured as an indicator of local GC levels in target organs. However, several extra-adrenal organs can produce and metabolize GCs locally. More sensitive and specific methods for GC analysis (i.e., mass spectrometry) allow measurement of local GC levels in small tissue samples with low GC concentrations. Consequently, is it now apparent that systemic GC levels often do not reflect local GC levels. Here, we review the use of systemic GC measurements in clinical and research settings, discuss instances where systemic GC levels do not reflect local GC levels, and present evidence that local GC levels provide useful insights, with a focus on local GC production in the thymus (immunosteroids) and brain (neurosteroids). Lastly, we suggest key areas for further research, such as the roles of immunosteroids and neurosteroids in neonatal programming and the potential clinical relevance of local GC modulators.

CDT1 Is a Novel Prognostic and Predictive Biomarkers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Objective

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors endangering human health and life in the 21st century. Chromatin licensing and DNA replication factor 1 (CDT1) is an important regulator of DNA replication licensing, which is essential for initiation of DNA replication. CDT1 overexpression in several human cancers reportedly leads to abnormal cell replication, activates DNA damage checkpoints, and predisposes malignant transformation. However, the abnormal expression of CDT1 in HCC and its diagnostic and prognostic value remains to be elucidated.

Methods

TCGA, ONCOMINE, UALCAN, HCCDB, HPA, Kaplan-Meier plotter, STRING, GEPIA, GeneMANIA, and TIMER were conducted for bioinformatics analysis. CDT1 protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in HCC tissues through a tissue microarray. qRT-PCR, western blot and a cohort of functional experiments were performed for in vitro validation.

Results

In this study, we discovered remarkably upregulated transcription of CDT1 in HCC samples relative to normal liver samples through bioinformatic analysis, which was further verified in clinical tissue microarray samples and in vitro experiments. Moreover, the transcriptional level of CDT1 in HCC samples was positively associated with clinical parameters such as clinical tumor stage. Survival, logistic regression, and Cox regression analyses revealed the significant clinical prognostic value of CDT1 expression in HCC. The receiver operating characteristic curve and nomogram analysis results demonstrated the strong predictive ability of CDT1 in HCC. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and gene set enrichment analyses indicated that CDT1 was mainly associated with the cell cycle, DNA repair, and DNA replication. We further demonstrated the significant correlation between CDT1 and minichromosome maintenance (MCM) family genes, revealing abnormal expression and prognostic significance of MCMs in HCC. Immune infiltration analysis indicated that CDT1 was significantly associated with immune cell subsets and affected the survival of HCC patients. Finally, knockdown of CDT1 decreased, whereas overexpression of CDT1 promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion of HCC cells in vitro.

Conclusions

Our study findings demonstrate the potential diagnostic and prognostic significance of CDT1 expression in HCC, and elucidate the potential molecular mechanism underlying its role in promoting the occurrence and development of liver cancer. These results may provide new opportunities and research paths for targeted therapies in HCC.

Identification of immune infiltration-related LncRNA FAM83C-AS1 for predicting prognosis and immunotherapy response in colon cancer

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence has demonstrated the functional relevance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) to the occurrence and progression of tumors. However, the role of lncRNA FAM83C-AS1 in tumors remains unclear. We aim to prove the relationship between FAM83C-AS1 and colon cancer (CCa).

METHODS

The expression level of FAM83C-AS1 in CCa were explored through bioinformatics analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluated to its roles in the prognosis of CCa. The biological function was explored through gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). The correlation between FAM83C-AS1 expression and immune infiltration and immunotherapy response was analyzed through single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA) and Spearman correlation.

RESULTS

FAM83C-AS1 was up-regulated in multiple cancers including CCa. Increased FAM83C-AS1 expression in CCa was correlated with advanced clinical pathologic characteristics (histological type, M stage; p < 0.05). ROC curve suggested the significant diagnostic and prognostic ability of FAM83C-AS1 (AUC = 0.759). High FAM83C-AS1 expression predicted a poorer overall survival (OS, p = 0.033) and disease-free survival (DFS, p = 0.043), and FAM83C-AS1 expression was independently correlated with OS in CCa patients (HR:1.69; 95% CI:1.07-2.67; p = 0.024). In addition, GSEA suggested the involvement of FAM83C-AS1 in immune-related pathways. We also found the correlation of FAM83C-AS1 with DC cells and T helper cells and a potential of the measurement in response to immunotherapy.

CONCLUSION

High expression of FAM83C-AS1 indicated poor prognosis and correlation with immune infiltrations and immune response in CCa, and it may be a promising biomarker of prognosis and response to immunotherapy for CCa.

LncRNA ST7-AS1 is a Potential Novel Biomarker and Correlated With Immune Infiltrates for Breast Cancer

Background: Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) ST7-AS1 can be observed in various cancers, but its role in breast cancer (BRC) remains unclear. Our aim is to, on the basis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, prove the correlation between lncRNA ST7-AS1 and BRC.

Methods: The lncRNA ST7-AS1 expression and its roles in the prognosis of BRC were explored using data from the TCGA database. The expression level of lncRNA ST7-AS1 in BRC samples was detected using RT-PCR. The 1-, 3-, or 5-year survival rate was predicted using a nomogram established through Cox proportional hazard regression. At last, the biological function was explored through gene ontology (GO) analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). The hallmark pathways significantly involved in hub genes were described through functional enrichment analysis. The correlation between lncRNA ST7-AS1 expression and immune infiltration was analyzed through single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA).

Results: LncRNA ST7-AS1 expression was downregulated in BRC. Decreased lncRNA ST7-AS1 expression in BRC was correlated with advanced clinical pathologic characteristics (high grade, histological type, age, menopause status, and HER2 status), survival time, and poor prognosis. The nomogram was established for using lncRNA ST7-AS1 to predict 1-, 3-, or 5-year survival in patients with BRC. In addition, GO and pathway analyses suggested the involvement of lncRNA ST7-AS1 in cell cycle, DNA repair, and immune cell infiltration in the BRC immune microenvironment. We found the correlation of lncRNA ST7-AS1 with T helper cells and DC cells.

Conclusion: Low expression of lncRNA ST7-AS1 indicates poor prognosis and has an impact on cell cycle, DNA repair, and proportion of infiltrating immune cells in the BRC microenvironment. Therefore, lncRNA ST7-AS1 can be used as a protective prognostic marker and a potential treatment target for BRC.

Effects of Long-Term Supplementation of Bovine Colostrum on the Immune System in Young Female Basketball Players. Randomized Trial

An intensive physical exercise program could lead to a decrease in immune system function. Effects of long-term supplementation of bovine colostrum on the response of immune function on physical exercise test in athletes were examined. Twenty-seven elite female basketball players (age 16–19) were randomly assigned to either an experimental group or a control group. Eventually, n = 11 athletes completed intervention in the experimental group (3.2 g bovine colostrum orally twice a day for 24 weeks), while n = 9 athletes in the control group were given a placebo. Before the supplementation, after 3 and 6 months, subjects performed the physical exercise stress test. Before, just after, and 3 h after physical exercise testing, blood was drawn and immune system indicators were examined. Plasma interleukin (IL)-1alpha, IL-2, IL-10, IL-13, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha, creatine kinase (CK MM), immunoglobulin G (IgG), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), and WBC, lymphocyte (LYM), monocyte (MON), and granulocyte (GRA) were measured. A statistically significant change in IL-10 in response to the exercise program during the supplementation period in both groups was observed (p = 0.01). However, the results of the rest of the comparisons were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). Contrary to our initial hypothesis, there were no significant effects of bovine supplementation on the dynamics of immune system function indicators.

Current status and perspectives regarding the association between allergic disorders and cancer

While activation of immune system may lead to a lower risk of some diseases, it has been shown that a history of atopic allergic disorders such as asthma, hay fever, eczema, and food allergies could be related to several types of cancer. However, the evidence is not entirely conclusive. Two proposals suggest a possible mechanism for the association between allergic disorders and cancers: immune surveillance and the antigenic stimulation. The association of allergy and cancer may vary by cancer site and the type of exposure. The aim of current review was to summarize the current knowledge of the association between allergic diseases and the risk of cancers with particular emphasis on case-controls and cohort studies to estimate the cancer risk associated with allergy.

Acorus gramineusand and Euodia ruticarpa Steam Distilled Essential Oils Exert Anti-Inflammatory Effects Through Decreasing Th1/Th2 and Pro-/Anti-Inflammatory Cytokine Secretion Ratios In Vitro

To clarify the effects of steam distilled essential oils (SDEO) from herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine on immune functions, two potential herbs, Acorus gramineusand (AG) and Euodia ruticarpa (ER) cultivated in Taiwan, were selected to assess their immunomodulatory effects using mouse primary splenocytes and peritoneal macrophages. T helper type 1 lymphocytes (Th1) (IL-2), Th2 (IL-5), pro-inflammatory (TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines secreted by correspondent immune cells treated with SDEO samples were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The total amounts of potential phytochemicals, including total flavonoids, polyphenols and saponins, in these two selected SDEOs were measured and correlated with cytokine levels secreted by immune cells. Our results evidenced that ER SDEO is rich in total flavonoids, polyphenols and saponins. Treatments with AG and ER SDEO significantly (p < 0.05) increased IL-5/IL-2 (Th2/Th1) cytokine secretion ratios by splenocytes, suggesting that both AG and ER SDEO have the Th2-polarization property and anti-inflammatory potential. In addition, AG and ER SDEO, particularly ER SDEO, markedly decreased TNF-α/IL-10 secretion ratios by macrophages in the absence or presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), exhibiting substantial effects on spontaneous and LPS-induced inflammation. Significant correlations were found between the total polyphenols, flavonoids or saponins content in the two selected SDEOs and Th1/Th2 immune balance or anti-inflammatory ability in linear, non-linear or biphasic manners, respectively. In conclusion, our results suggest that AG and ER, particularly ER, SDEO have immunomodulatory potential in shifting the Th1/Th2 balance toward Th2 polarization in splenocytes and inhibiting inflammation in macrophages in the absence or presence of LPS.

Checkpoint-modulating immunotherapies in tumor treatment: Targets, drugs, and mechanisms

Tumor immunotherapy, as a new treatment of cancer, has been developing on the basis of tumor immunology. Tumor immunotherapy stimulates and enhances the function of immune system in human bodies, in order to control and kill tumor cells. It is often used as an adjuvant therapy combined with surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other conventional methods. Cancer immunotherapies involve cells, antibodies and cytokines, etc. Some immunotherapies are widely used to activate the immune system, while some others precisely target at different tumor antigens. With the development of tumor immunotherapy, immune regulation activities of small molecules and biological agents have been gradually becoming a hot research area these years. In this review, we summarize the therapeutic targets, drugs, biologics, and their mechanisms in tumor immunotherapies.

Developing a framework for assessing chemical respiratory sensitization: A workshop report

Respiratory tract sensitization can have significant acute and chronic health implications. While induction of respiratory sensitization is widely recognized for some chemicals, validated standard methods or frameworks for identifying and characterizing the hazard are not available. A workshop on assessment of respiratory sensitization was held to discuss the current state of science for identification and characterization of respiratory sensitizer hazard, identify information facilitating development of validated standard methods and frameworks, and consider the regulatory and practical risk management needs. Participants agreed on a predominant Th2 immunological mechanism and several steps in respiratory sensitization. Some overlapping cellular events in respiratory and skin sensitization are well understood, but full mechanism(s) remain unavailable. Progress on non-animal approaches to skin sensitization testing, ranging from in vitro systems, -omics, in silico profiling, and structural profiling were acknowledged. Addressing both induction and elicitation phases remains challenging. Participants identified lack of a unifying dose metric as increasing the difficulty of interpreting dosimetry across exposures. A number of research needs were identified, including an agreed list of respiratory sensitizers and other asthmagens, distinguishing between adverse effects from immune-mediated versus non-immunological mechanisms. A number of themes emerged from the discussion regarding future testing strategies, particularly the need for a tiered framework respiratory sensitizer assessment. These workshop present a basis for moving towards a weight-of-evidence assessment.

CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T regulatory cells, Th1 (CCR5, IL-2, IFN-γ) and Th2 (CCR4, IL-4, Il-13) type chemokine receptors and intracellular cytokines in children with common variable immunodeficiency

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a heterogeneous group of primary antibody deficiencies characterized by decreased serum immunoglobulin G along with a decrease in serum IgA and/or IgM, defective specific antibody production, and recurrent bacterial infections. Abnormal lymphocyte trafficking, dysregulated cellular responses to chemokines, and uncontrolled T cell polarization may be involved in the pathogenesis and may help to understand the clinical complications. We evaluated T helper cell subsets (chemokine receptors CCR4, CCR5, and CCR7), expressions on T lymphocytes, intracellular cytokines - IL-2, IL-4, IL-13, IFN- γ-on CD4(+) T cells, and expression of CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells of 20 CVID patients and 26 healthy controls. Autoimmune clinical findings and other complications were also determined. Percentages and absolute numbers of CD4(+)CD25(+) Foxp3(+) cells did not show any significant difference between CVID cases and healthy controls nor between severe and moderate disease patients. The only significant difference regarding Th1 and Th2 type intracellular cytokines was the decreased absolute numbers of CD3(+)CD4(+)IL4(+) cells in CVID cases. There were some findings about T helper cell type dominance in CVID patients such as positive correlation between hepatomegaly and high IL-2 and IFN-γ in CD3(+)CD4(+) cells and very high expression of CCR5 (Th1) on CD3(+)CD4(+) cells in patients with granuloma. Th1 (CCR5) and Th2 (CCR4) type chemokine receptors did not show any dominance in CVID cases. However, frequencies of CCR7 expressing CD3(+) T cells, CD3(+)CD4(+) T helper cells and CD3(+)CD8(+) T cytotoxic cells were significantly lower in severe CVID patients. In addition, presence of autoimmune clinical findings was negatively correlated with CCR7(+) cells. As CCR7 is a key mediator balancing immunity and tolerance in the immune system, the abnormality of this mediator may contribute to the profound immune dysregulation seen in CVID. In addition, Th1 cells seem to be more involved in the disease pathogenesis than Th2 cells.

Interferon and IL-27 antagonize the function of group 2 innate lymphoid cells and type 2 innate immune responses

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2 cells) are type 2 cytokine-producing cells of the innate immune system with important roles in helminth infection and allergic inflammation. Here we found that tissue-resident ILC2 cells proliferated in situ without migrating during inflammatory responses. Both type I and type II interferons and interleukin 27 (IL-27) suppressed ILC2 function in a manner dependent on the transcription factor STAT1. ILC2-mediated lung inflammation was enhanced in the absence of the interferon-γ (IFN-γ) receptor on ILC2 cells in vivo. IFN-γ effectively suppressed the function of tissue-resident ILC2 cells but not that of inflammatory ILC2 cells, and IL-27 suppressed tissue-resident ILC2 cells but not tissue-resident TH2 cells during lung inflammation induced by Alternaria alternata. Our results demonstrate that suppression mediated by interferon and IL-27 is a negative feedback mechanism for ILC2 function in vivo.

The cellular immunity and oxidative stress markers in early pregnancy loss

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether changes in cellular immunity and oxidative stress in pregnancy have any association with spontaneous miscarriage.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Circulating adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity as a marker of cellular immunity and malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) as markers of T lymphocyte activation and parameters of oxidative stress and antioxidant defense were compared between 40 women with early pregnancy loss and another 40 women with ungoing healthy pregnancy.

RESULTS

Women with miscarriage had higher serum ADA and GPx levels when compared with women with normal pregnancy (p = 0.034 and p < 0.001, respectively). Although serum MDA level was slightly higher in women with miscarriage, the difference was not significant (p = 0.083). CAT levels were alike in both groups.

CONCLUSION

We have demonstrated an increased cellular immunity and perhaps a compensated oxidative stress related to increased antioxidant activation in women with early spontaneous pregnancy loss.

Gene polymorphisms of stress hormone and cytokine receptors associate with immunomodulatory profile and psychological measurement

OBJECTIVE

We sought to identify whether stable single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of various endocrine and immune molecules could be used as biomarkers associated with specific immune alterations and chronic stress measures in normal humans.

METHODS

A total of 207 volunteer participants answered stress questionnaire and gave peripheral blood cells for identification of SNPs in genes coding for glucocorticoid receptor (GR), beta 2 adrenergic receptor (B2AR), interferon-gamma receptors (IFNGR1, IFNGR2), and interleukin-4 receptor (IL4R). Immunoregulatory profiles were measured by flow cytometry and genotyping assays were performed by allelic discrimination real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Several significant differences were revealed in associations between stress marker and immune indicators based on SNP categories. For instance, Th1 levels of the minor alleles of GR TthIIII (AA) and IFNGR2 Q64R (Arg/Arg) groups were positively associated with chronic stress (PSS) (p = 0.024 and 0.005, respectively) compared with wild type (WT) and negatively associated with PSS in the heterozygous genotypes of GR BclI and IL4R Ile50Val (p = 0.040 and p = 0.052, respectively). Treg levels of the minor alleles of BclI (GG) and IFNGR1 T-56C (CC) groups were positively associated with PSS (p = 0.045 and p = 0.010, respectively) and negatively associated in the minor allele (Val/Val) of IL4R Ile50Va and the heterozygous genotype of IL4R Q576R (p = 0.041 and p = 0.017, respectively) compared to WT.

CONCLUSION

The data support the notion that gene polymorphisms from various components of the psychoneuroendocrine-immune network may be useful as biomarkers to categorize individual stress-associated immune responses.

Interleukin 10 gene promoter polymorphisms in women with early-onset pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is one of the most serious disorders of human pregnancy and T helper type 1 (Th1)/Th2 imbalance plays a major role in its aetiology. The Th2 cytokine, interleukin (IL)-10, plays a significant role in the maintenance of pregnancy. The present study is aimed at understanding the role of IL-10 promoter polymorphisms (-1082 G/A; -592 A/C and -819 C/T) and their haplotypes in early-onset pre-eclampsia. A total of 120 patients and an equal number of women with normal pregnancy, from Government Maternity Hospital, Petlaburz, Hyderabad, India, were considered for the present study. A standard amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR) was carried out for genotyping followed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Appropriate statistical methods were applied to test for the significance of the results. It was found that the IL-10 -819 C allele (P = 0·003) and -592 A (P = 0·005) allele frequencies increased significantly in patients compared to controls. No significant difference was found with regard to -1082 promoter polymorphism. Haplotype analysis of the IL-10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) revealed a significant association with ACC haplotype with a twofold increased risk in patients compared to controls. The frequencies of two common IL-10 haplotypes (GCC and ATA) did not show any significant difference. Further, the diplotype analysis revealed five genotypes: -1082A with -819C (P = 0·0016); -1082G with -819C (P = 0·0018); -819C with -592C (P = 0·001); -1082A with -592C (P = 0·032); and -1082G with -592C (P = 0·005) associated with the disease. These findings support the concept of contribution of IL-10 gene polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of early-onset pre-eclampsia.

Selective colorectal cancer cell lysates enhance the immune function of mature dendritic cells in vitro

The aim of the present study was to determine the most effective antigen with which to mature dendritic cells (DCs). The immune function of DCs loaded with lysates from three different colorectal cancer cell lines was compared. DCs were induced using granulocyte macrophage colony‑stimulating factor, interleukin (IL)‑4 and tumor necrosis factor-α from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with colorectal cancer, and loaded with lysates from Colo320, SW480 and SW620 colorectal cancer cell lines, respectively. Autogenous T cells were co‑cultured with mature DCs. Surface markers and the secretory function of mature DCs and stimulated T cells were then analyzed. MTT assays were used to evaluate the killing capacity of autogenous cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Compared with control, cluster of differentiation (CD)1a, CD83 and CD86, and human leukocyte antigen‑DR expression levels were significantly higher in DCs matured using cancer cell lysates. In addition, IL‑12 secretion levels were elevated. Autogenous T cells stimulated with DCs that were matured using cancer cell lysates showed a higher proliferation capacity, increased interferon-γ secretion levels and stronger cytotoxic abilities compared with control cells. Among the three cell lines, SW480 lysates were most effective at promoting DC and T cell function. The results showed that SW480 lysates are more efficient than Colo320 and SW620 lysates in inducing DC immune function and activating the antitumor function of autogenous T cells.

General applicability of synthetic gene-overexpression for cell-type ratio control via reprogramming

Control of the cell-type ratio in multistable systems requires wide-range control of the initial states of cells. Here, using a synthetic circuit in E. coli, we describe the use of a simple gene-overexpression system combined with a bistable toggle switch, for the purposes of enabling the wide-range control of cellular states and thus generating arbitrary cell-type ratios. Theoretically, overexpression induction temporarily alters the bistable system to a monostable system, in which the location of the single steady state of cells can be manipulated over a wide range by regulating the overexpression levels. This induced cellular state becomes the initial state of the basal bistable system upon overexpression cessation, which restores the original bistable system. We experimentally demonstrated that the overexpression induced a monomodal cell distribution, and subsequent overexpression withdrawal generated a bimodal distribution. Furthermore, as designed theoretically, regulating the overexpression levels by adjusting the concentrations of small molecules generated arbitrary cell-type ratios.

Effects of strenuous exercise on Th1/Th2 gene expression from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells of marathon participants

Physical stressors, such as strenuous exercise, can have numerous effects on the human body including the immune system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the gene expression profile of Th1/Th2 cytokines and related transcription factor genes in order to investigate possible immune imbalances before and after a marathon. Blood samples were collected from 16 normal volunteers 24-48 h before and one week after completing a marathon race. Gene expression of Th1 and Th2 related cytokines from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was analyzed using Human Th1-Th2-Th3 RT(2) Profiler PCR Array and qRT-PCR that measured the transcript levels of 84 genes related to T cell activation. We found that PBMC express a characteristic Th2-like gene profile one week post-marathon compared to pre-marathon. The majority of genes up-regulated one week post-marathon such as IL-4, GATA3, and CCR4 were Th2 associated. For Th1-related genes, CXCR3 and IRF1 were up-regulated one week post-marathon. There was a trend of down-regulation of two Th1 related genes, T-bet and STAT1. Th3-related gene expression patterns did not change in the study. The ratios of both IFN-γ/IL-4 and T-bet/GATA3 gene expressions were significantly lower one week after marathon. These findings suggest that a Th1/Th2 immune imbalance persisted at least 1 week after completion of a marathon which offers a mechanistic rationale for the increased risk of upper respiratory tract infections often reported after strenuous exercise.

Contribution of membrane progesterone receptor α to the induction of progesterone-mediated apoptosis associated with mitochondrial membrane disruption and caspase cascade activation in Jurkat cell lines

In the present study, we investigated the effects of progesterone (Pg) on the growth of A3 and its caspase-8-deficient mutant cell line, I9.2, both of which are subclones of a T-cell-derived leukemic Jurkat cell line that lacks the classic cytoplasmic/nuclear Pg receptor. Pg inhibited the cell growth of both cell lines in a dose- and time-dependent manner to a similar extent, regardless of the status of caspase-8 expression. The activation of caspase-9 and -3 was observed in both cell lines following treatment with 50 µM Pg for 24 h. In addition, the activation of caspase-8 was observed in A3 cells. The addition of the pan-caspase inhibitor Boc-D-FMK, significantly suppressed Pg-triggered cytocidal effects in both types of cells. Moreover, exposure to 50 µM Pg for 48 and 72 h resulted in lactate dehydrogenase leakage characteristic of the disruption of cellular membrane integrity. The function of membrane progesterone receptor α coupled directly with the Gi protein was revealed based on the restoration of Pg-triggered loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in the presence of pertussis toxin, an inhibitor specific for Gi protein. These results suggest that growth suppression accompanied with induction of apoptosis by Pg in both Jurkat clone cells was mediated through mitochondrial membrane disruption followed by the activation of the caspase cascade, as a result of the activation of non-genomic effects. The results of the present study provide novel insight into Pg actions toward its use for clinical application in patients with lymphocytic T cell leukemia.

IFN-γ elevates airway hyper-responsiveness via up-regulation of neurokinin A/neurokinin-2 receptor signaling in a severe asthma model

The adoptive transfer of OVA-specific Th1 cells into WT mice followed by OVA inhalation induces a significant elevation of airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR) with neutrophilia but not mucus hypersecretion. Here, we demonstrate that the airway inflammation model, pathogenically characterized as severe asthma, was partly mimicked by i.n. administration of IFN-γ. The administration of IFN-γ instead of Th1 cells caused AHR elevation but not neutrophilia, and remarkably induced neurokinin-2 receptor (NK2R) expression along with neurokinin A (NKA) production in the lung. To evaluate whether NKA/NK2R was involved in airway inflammation, we first investigated the role of NKA/NK2R-signaling in airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) in vitro. NK2R mRNA expression was significantly augmented in tracheal tube-derived ASMCs of WT mice but not STAT-1(-/-) mice after stimulation with IFN-γ. In addition, methacholine-mediated Ca(2+) influx into the ASMCs was significantly reduced in the presence of NK2R antagonist. Moreover, the NK2R antagonist strongly inhibited IFN-γ-dependent AHR elevation in vivo. Thus, these results demonstrated that IFN-γ directly acts on ASMCs to elevate AHR via the NKA/NK2R-signaling cascade. Our present findings suggested that NK2R-mediated neuro-immuno crosstalk would be a promising target for developing novel drugs in Th1-cell-mediated airway inflammation, including severe asthma.

Recurrent pregnancy loss: TNF-α and IL-10 polymorphisms

BACKGROUND:

The recurrent pregnancy loss requires careful consideration of genetic, anatomic, endocrine, infectious and immunological factors. Cytokine gene polymorphisms in the promoter regions of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-10 are associated with recurrent pregnancy loss.

AIM:

The aim of present study was to investigate the association of the IL-10 -592C/A and TNF-α-308 G/A, promoter polymorphisms among women with at least three consecutive miscarriages.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Genotyping was done in 50 women with RPL for IL-10-592C/A and TNF-α-308G/A promoter polymorphism to see the association of these loci with pregnancy loss. The control group included 50 healthy women having two or more children (mean age of the female subjects 35 years) for statistical comparisons.

RESULTS:

IL- 10-592C/A and TNF-α-308G/A promoter polymorphisms were not associated with the recurrent miscarriages.

CONCLUSIONS:

There is a need to screen a larger sample and in different ethnic groups using IL-10-592C/A and TNF-α-308G/A markers to understand their association with recurrent miscarriages. This would further help in efficient management of immunologically mediated recurrent miscarriages at the sample/individual level.

Interleukin 4-590T/C polymorphism and susceptibility to leprosy

BACKGROUND

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. Cell-mediated (Th1) immune response and humoral (Th2) immune response play different roles in leprosy infection. Interleukin 4 (IL-4) is a typical Th2 cytokine. It is a critical mediator of the Th1/Th2 balance.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to investigate the association between IL-4 gene -590T/C polymorphism and the susceptibility to leprosy in a Chinese population.

METHODS

The IL-4 variant -590T/C was detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism in 432 leprosy cases and 465 age-matched healthy controls. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test.

RESULTS

Frequencies of the IL-4-590TC and CC genotypes and the -590C allele were significantly lower in patients with leprosy than in healthy controls (odds ratio [OR]=0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55-0.99, p=0.044; OR=0.46, 95% CI 0.25-0.84, p=0.010; and OR=0.68, 95% CI 0.54-0.86, p=0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that the -590T/C polymorphism of the IL-4 gene is associated with decreased susceptibility of leprosy.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone modulates cholesterol synthesis and steroidogenesis in SH-SY5Y cells

Neurosteroids are involved in Central Nervous System development, brain functionality and neuroprotection but little is known about regulators of their biosynthesis. Recently gonadotropins, Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone (GnRH) and their receptors have been localized in different brain regions, such as hippocampus and cortex. Using human neuronal-like cells we found that GnRH up-regulates the expression of key genes of cholesterol and steroid synthesis when used in a narrow range around 1.0 nM. The expression of Hydroxysterol D24-reductase (seladin-1/DHCR24), that catalyzes the last step of cholesterol biosynthesis, is increased by 50% after 90 min of incubation with GnRH. StAR protein and P450 side chain cleavage (P450scc) are up-regulated by 3.3 times after 90 min and by 3.5 times after 3 h, respectively. GnRH action is mediated by LH and 1.0 nM GnRH enhances the expression of LHβ as well. A two fold increase of cell cholesterol is induced after 90 min of GnRH incubation and 17β-estradiol (E2) production is increased after 24, 48 and 72 h. These data indicate for the first time that GnRH regulates both cholesterol and steroid biosynthesis in human neuronal-like cells and suggest a new physiological role for GnRH in the brain.

Effects of hydrocortisone on the differentiation of human T helper 2 cells

We investigated the effects of the neuroendocrine modulator hydrocortisone (HC) on Th2 differentiation of human naive CD4+ T cells with and without CD28 co-stimulation. Human naive CD4+ T cells were isolated and purified from umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells from full-term newborn infants. CD4+ T cells were treated with different concentrations of HC under Th0 or Th2 culture conditions. Th0 conditions included stimulation by immobilized monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against CD3 and CD28; Th2 conditions were the same + rhIL-4. Parallel cultures excluded the CD28 mAb. Th1 (IL-2, INF-γ)- and Th2 (IL-4, IL-5)-type cytokines were quantified in culture supernatants by ELISA and within cells by flow cytometry. For both Th0 and Th2 culture conditions, HC significantly inhibited Th1 cytokines' release (IL-2 and INF-γ). For Th0 culture conditions, HC slightly increased IL-4 expression (Th2 cytokine). However, for Th2 culture conditions, HC inhibited the IL4-induced production of IL-4. Although the absolute cytokine amounts were decreased, absence of CD28 co-stimulation did not alter these 'trends'. Our findings indicate that HC can alter the Th1/Th2 balance by inhibiting the production of Th1-type cytokines. HC can also diminish the extensive Th2 differentiation induced by IL-4.

Regulation of dendritic cells by female sex steroids: Relevance to immunity and autoimmunity

Dendritic cells (DCs) are critical mediators of adaptive immunity, tolerance and autoimmunity. The human immune system exhibits sexual dimorphism, which is most evident in the female predominance of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Female sex steroids are strongly implicated in mediating immune sexual dimorphism, in part because estrogen accentuates disease in several models of lupus autoimmunity. In contrast, progesterone may prevent disease development. While much investigation has focused on the effects of estrogen and progesterone on lymphocyte functions, far less attention has been paid to the effects of these hormones on DCs. Current evidence now indicates estrogen can activate DCs, while in contrast, progesterone inhibits DC functions. Thus, we hypothesize that the opposite effects these two hormones have on lupus autoimmunity reflect opposing effects on DC functions. Thus, through direct actions on DCs, female sex steroids may influence autoimmunity, immunity and tolerance.

Combination treatment with progesterone and vitamin D hormone may be more effective than monotherapy for nervous system injury and disease

More than two decades of pre-clinical research and two recent clinical trials have shown that progesterone (PROG) and its metabolites exert beneficial effects after traumatic brain injury (TBI) through a number of metabolic and physiological pathways that can reduce damage in many different tissues and organ systems. Emerging data on 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (VDH), itself a steroid hormone, have begun to provide evidence that, like PROG, it too is neuroprotective, although some of its actions may involve different pathways. Both agents have high safety profiles, act on many different injury and pathological mechanisms, and are clinically relevant, easy to administer, and inexpensive. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in a large segment of the population, especially the elderly and institutionalized, and can significantly affect recovery after CNS injury. The combination of PROG and VDH in pre-clinical and clinical studies is a novel and compelling approach to TBI treatment.

Serum levels of adenosine deaminase and pregnancy-related hormones in hyperemesis gravidarum

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the correlation between pregnancy-related hormones and serum adenosine deaminase (indicator of cellular immunity) level in women with hyperemesis gravidarum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty patients with hyperemesis gravidarum and 20 normal pregnancies were included in this prospective, case-control study. Serum adenosine deaminase levels, hematological parameters (white blood cells, neutrophil, monocyte and lymphocyte counts) and hormone levels (prolactin, progesterone, thyroid stimulating hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit, estradiol (E2)) were measured in all women. Interrelations of blood cell counts and hormone levels with serum adenosine deaminase levels were also investigated.

RESULTS

Serum adenosine deaminase, human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit, thyroid stimulating hormone, E2, progesterone and prolactin levels, and lymphocyte and monocyte counts in women with hyperemesis gravidarum were significantly higher than in controls but white blood cells, neutrophil, T3 and T4 levels were not different. Serum adenosine deaminase level correlated with E2, progesterone, lymphocyte, and monocyte levels for all patients.

CONCLUSION

Elevated serum adenosine deaminase in patients with hyperemesis gravidarum may relate to high levels of E2 and progesterone.

Disequilibrium of T helper type 1, 2 and 17 cells and regulatory T cells during the development of experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis

Experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG), an animal model of myasthenia gravis (MG), is a rare organ-specific autoimmune disease targeting the autoantigen nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR). We show here that the balance of T helper type 1 (Th1), Th2, Th17 and regulatory T (Treg) subsets of CD4(+) helper T cells were redistributed during the development of EAMG and that the interleukin-17 (IL-17) cytokine is involved in this disease. The ratio of Th17 cells changed most notably with disease progression accompanied by an up-regulated level of IL-17. Moreover, the proliferative ability of AChR peptide-specific T cells and the anti-AChR antibody-secreting cells increased when stimulated by IL-17 in vitro. These findings suggested that the disequilibrium of the CD4(+) helper T-cell subsets could promote the development of EAMG, and the pathogenic mechanism by which Th17 cells drives autoimmune responses by secreting cytokine IL-17 provides a new target for myasthenia gravis therapy.

Cortisol and corticosterone in the songbird immune and nervous systems: local vs. systemic levels during development

Glucocorticoids (GCs) have profound effects on the immune and nervous systems during development. However, circulating GC levels are low neonatally and show little response to stressors. This paradox could be resolved if immune and neural tissues locally synthesize GCs. Here, we measured baseline corticosterone and cortisol levels in plasma, immune organs, and brain regions of developing zebra finches. Steroids were extracted using solid phase-extraction and quantified using specific immunoassays. As expected, corticosterone was the predominant GC in plasma and increased with age. In contrast, cortisol was the predominant GC in immune tissues (bursa of Fabricius, thymus, spleen) and decreased with age. Cortisol levels in immune tissues were higher than cortisol levels in plasma. In the brain, corticosterone and cortisol levels were similarly low, providing little evidence for local synthesis of GCs in the brain. This is the first study to measure 1) cortisol in the plasma of songbirds, 2) corticosterone or cortisol in the brain of songbirds, and 3) corticosterone or cortisol in the immune system of any species. Despite the prevailing dogma that corticosterone is the primary GC in birds, these results indicate that cortisol is the predominant GC in the immune system of developing zebra finches. These results raise the hypothesis that cortisol is synthesized de novo from cholesterol in the immune system as an “immunosteroid,” analogous to neurosteroids synthesized in the brain. Local production of GCs in immune tissues may allow GCs to regulate lymphocyte selection while avoiding the costs of high systemic GCs during development.

Neurosteroids, immunosteroids, and the Balkanization of endocrinology

Traditionally, the production and regulation of steroid hormones has been viewed as a multi-organ process involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis for sex steroids and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis for glucocorticoids. However, active steroids can also be synthesized locally in target tissues, either from circulating inactive precursors or de novo from cholesterol. Here, we review recent work demonstrating local steroid synthesis, with an emphasis on steroids synthesized in the brain (neurosteroids) and steroids synthesized in the immune system (immunosteroids). Furthermore, recent evidence suggests that other components of the HPG axis (luteinizing hormone and gonadotropin-releasing hormone) and HPA axis (adrenocorticotropic hormone and corticotropin-releasing hormone) are expressed locally in target tissues, potentially providing a mechanism for local regulation of neurosteroid and immunosteroid synthesis. The balance between systemic and local steroid signals depends critically on life history stage, species adaptations, and the costs of systemic signals. During particular life history stages, there can be a shift from systemic to local steroid signals. We propose that the shift to local synthesis and regulation of steroids within target tissues represents a "Balkanization" of the endocrine system, whereby individual tissues and organs may become capable of autonomously synthesizing and modulating local steroid signals, perhaps independently of the HPG and HPA axes.

Coxsackievirus B3-induced myocarditis: infection of females during the estrus phase of the ovarian cycle leads to activation of T regulatory cells

Transgenic female mice expressing the TNFalpha gene under the cardiac myosin promoter (TNF1.6) develop substantially increased myocarditis and increased numbers of CD4+Th1 (interferon gamma+) cells when infected with coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) during the diestrus and proestrus phases of the estrus cycle compared to females infected during the estrus and metestrus phases. Cardiac virus titers were increased in females infected in estrus compared to females infected during the other phases. T regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+FoxP3+) were increased in both peripheral blood and inflammatory cells in the heart in females infected during estrus. Exogenous administration of 200 ng/mouse 17-beta-estradiol to females protected against CVB3 induced myocarditis and increased CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ cells. These results demonstrate that hormonal fluctuations occurring in normally cycling females can determine T regulatory cell response and control virus-induced pathogenesis.

Interferon-gamma and NF-kappaB mediate nitric oxide production by mesenchymal stromal cells

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been shown to have an immunosuppressive effect. Previously, we demonstrated that nitric oxide (NO) is one of the immunomodulatory mediators of MSCs. We herein show that primary mouse bone marrow MSCs and three cell lines that mimic MSCs suppress both differentiation and proliferation in Th1 condition, whereas the suppression in Th2 condition is mild. NO production is inversely correlated with T cell proliferation in Th1 and Th2 conditions. NO is highly induced in Th1 and minimally induced in Th2. Moreover, an inhibitor of NO synthase restores both proliferation and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) production in Th1 condition. Furthermore, an anti-IFN-gamma antibody strongly inhibits NO production and an inhibitor of NF-kappaB reduces the level of induction of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) in MSCs. Taken together, our results suggest that NO plays a significant role in the modification of Th1 and Th2 differentiation by MSCs, and that both IFN-gamma and NF-kappaB are critical for NO production by MSCs.