1
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Groegler J, Callebaut A, James EA, Delong T. The insulin secretory granule is a hotspot for autoantigen formation in type 1 diabetes. Diabetologia 2024:10.1007/s00125-024-06164-x. [PMID: 38811417 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-024-06164-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
In type 1 diabetes, the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas are destroyed through the activity of autoreactive T cells. In addition to strong and well-documented HLA class II risk haplotypes, type 1 diabetes is associated with noncoding polymorphisms within the insulin gene locus. Furthermore, autoantibody prevalence data and murine studies implicate insulin as a crucial autoantigen for the disease. Studies identify secretory granules, where proinsulin is processed into mature insulin, stored and released in response to glucose stimulation, as a source of antigenic epitopes and neoepitopes. In this review, we integrate established concepts, including the role that susceptible HLA and thymic selection of the T cell repertoire play in setting the stage for autoimmunity, with emerging insights about beta cell and insulin secretory granule biology. In particular, the acidic, peptide-rich environment of secretory granules combined with its array of enzymes generates a distinct proteome that is unique to functional beta cells. These factors converge to generate non-templated peptide sequences that are recognised by autoreactive T cells. Although unanswered questions remain, formation and presentation of these epitopes and the resulting immune responses appear to be key aspects of disease initiation. In addition, these pathways may represent important opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Groegler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Aïsha Callebaut
- Center for Translational Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eddie A James
- Center for Translational Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thomas Delong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
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2
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Yuan F, Zhang R, Li J, Lei Q, Wang S, Jiang F, Guo Y, Xiang M. CCR5-overexpressing mesenchymal stem cells protect against experimental autoimmune uveitis: insights from single-cell transcriptome analysis. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:136. [PMID: 38802924 PMCID: PMC11131209 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03134-3] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune uveitis is a leading cause of severe vision loss, and animal models provide unique opportunities for studying its pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. Here we employ scRNA-seq, RNA-seq and various molecular and cellular approaches to characterize mouse models of classical experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), revealing that EAU causes broad retinal neuron degeneration and marker downregulation, and that Müller glia may act as antigen-presenting cells. Moreover, EAU immune response is primarily driven by Th1 cells, and results in dramatic upregulation of CC chemokines, especially CCL5, in the EAU retina. Accordingly, overexpression of CCR5, a CCL5 receptor, in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) enhances their homing capacity and improves their immunomodulatory outcomes in preventing EAU, by reducing infiltrating T cells and activated microglia and suppressing Nlrp3 inflammasome activation. Taken together, our data not only provide valuable insights into the molecular characteristics of EAU but also open an avenue for innovative MSC-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jiani Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Qiannan Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Shuyi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Fanying Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yanan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Mengqing Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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3
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Callebaut A, Guyer P, Derua R, Buitinga M, Manganaro A, Yi X, Sodré FMC, Vig S, Suleiman M, Marchetti P, Eizirik DL, Kent SC, Mathieu C, James EA, Overbergh L. CD4+ T Cells From Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes Respond to a Novel Class of Deamidated Peptides Formed in Pancreatic Islets. Diabetes 2024; 73:728-742. [PMID: 38387030 PMCID: PMC11043062 DOI: 10.2337/db23-0588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The β-cell plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, in part through the posttranslational modification of self-proteins by biochemical processes such as deamidation. These neoantigens are potential triggers for breaking immune tolerance. We report the detection by LC-MS/MS of 16 novel Gln and 27 novel Asn deamidations in 14 disease-related proteins within inflammatory cytokine-stressed human islets of Langerhans. T-cell clones responsive against one Gln- and three Asn-deamidated peptides could be isolated from peripheral blood of individuals with type 1 diabetes. Ex vivo HLA class II tetramer staining detected higher T-cell frequencies in individuals with the disease compared with control individuals. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the frequencies of T cells specific for deamidated peptides, insulin antibody levels at diagnosis, and duration of disease. These results highlight that stressed human islets are prone to enzymatic and biochemical deamidation and suggest that both Gln- and Asn-deamidated peptides can promote the activation and expansion of autoreactive CD4+ T cells. These findings add to the growing evidence that posttranslational modifications undermine tolerance and may open the road for the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic applications for individuals living with type 1 diabetes. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- Aïsha Callebaut
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Translational Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Perrin Guyer
- Center for Translational Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Rita Derua
- Laboratory of Protein Phosphorylation and Proteomics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mijke Buitinga
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anthony Manganaro
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Xiaoyan Yi
- ULB Center for Diabetes Research, Medical Faculty, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Saurabh Vig
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mara Suleiman
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Piero Marchetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Decio L. Eizirik
- ULB Center for Diabetes Research, Medical Faculty, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sally C. Kent
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Chantal Mathieu
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eddie A. James
- Center for Translational Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Lut Overbergh
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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4
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Shirafkan F, Hensel L, Rattay K. Immune tolerance and the prevention of autoimmune diseases essentially depend on thymic tissue homeostasis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1339714. [PMID: 38571951 PMCID: PMC10987875 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1339714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The intricate balance of immune reactions towards invading pathogens and immune tolerance towards self is pivotal in preventing autoimmune diseases, with the thymus playing a central role in establishing and maintaining this equilibrium. The induction of central immune tolerance in the thymus involves the elimination of self-reactive T cells, a mechanism essential for averting autoimmunity. Disruption of the thymic T cell selection mechanisms can lead to the development of autoimmune diseases. In the dynamic microenvironment of the thymus, T cell migration and interactions with thymic stromal cells are critical for the selection processes that ensure self-tolerance. Thymic epithelial cells are particularly significant in this context, presenting self-antigens and inducing the negative selection of autoreactive T cells. Further, the synergistic roles of thymic fibroblasts, B cells, and dendritic cells in antigen presentation, selection and the development of regulatory T cells are pivotal in maintaining immune responses tightly regulated. This review article collates these insights, offering a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted role of thymic tissue homeostasis in the establishment of immune tolerance and its implications in the prevention of autoimmune diseases. Additionally, the developmental pathways of the thymus are explored, highlighting how genetic aberrations can disrupt thymic architecture and function, leading to autoimmune conditions. The impact of infections on immune tolerance is another critical area, with pathogens potentially triggering autoimmunity by altering thymic homeostasis. Overall, this review underscores the integral role of thymic tissue homeostasis in the prevention of autoimmune diseases, discussing insights into potential therapeutic strategies and examining putative avenues for future research on developing thymic-based therapies in treating and preventing autoimmune conditions.
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Fukui C, Yamana S, Xue Y, Shirane M, Tsutsui H, Asahara K, Yoshitomi K, Ito T, Lestari T, Hasegawa E, Yawata N, Takeda A, Sonoda KH, Shibata K. Functions of mucosal associated invariant T cells in eye diseases. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1341180. [PMID: 38440736 PMCID: PMC10911089 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1341180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are a unique subset of T cells that recognizes metabolites derived from the vitamin B2 biosynthetic pathway. Since the identification of cognate antigens for MAIT cells, knowledge of the functions of MAIT cells in cancer, autoimmunity, and infectious diseases has been rapidly expanding. Recently, MAIT cells have been found to contribute to visual protection against autoimmunity in the eye. The protective functions of MAIT cells are induced by T-cell receptor (TCR)-mediated activation. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Thus, this mini-review aims to discuss our findings and the complexity of MAIT cell-mediated immune regulation in the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Fukui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yamana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yanqi Xue
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Mariko Shirane
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroki Tsutsui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Asahara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Keiko Yoshitomi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takako Ito
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tantri Lestari
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Eiichi Hasegawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Nobuyo Yawata
- Department of Ocular Pathology and Imaging Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Atsunobu Takeda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Koh-Hei Sonoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kensuke Shibata
- Department of Ocular Pathology and Imaging Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Ube, Japan
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
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6
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Zaki AM, Pasadhika S, Huang JC, Thomas AS, Burkholder BM, Lim LL, Llop SM, Suhler EB, Adamus G, Rosenbaum JT. Characterization of autoimmune eye disease in association with Down's syndrome. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:386-392. [PMID: 37598261 PMCID: PMC10810817 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02706-6] [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: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmunity and deficiency of the transcription factor autoimmune regulator protein (AIRE) are known associations with Down syndrome (DS). Lack of AIRE abrogates thymic tolerance. The autoimmune eye disease associated with DS has not been characterized. We identified a series of subjects with DS (n = 8) and uveitis. In three consecutive subjects, we tested the hypothesis that autoimmunity to retinal antigens might be a contributing factor. SUBJECTS/METHODS This was a multicentred, retrospective case series. Deidentified clinical data of subjects with both DS and uveitis were collected via questionnaire by uveitis-trained ophthalmologists. Anti-retinal autoantibodies (AAbs) were detected using an Autoimmune Retinopathy Panel tested in the OHSU Ocular Immunology Laboratory. RESULTS We characterized eight subjects (mean age 29 [range, 19-37] years). The mean age of detected uveitis onset was 23.5 [range, 11-33] years. All eight subjects had bilateral uveitis (p < 0.001 based on comparison to published university referral patterns), with anterior and intermediate uveitis found in six and five subjects respectively. Each of three subjects tested for anti-retinal AAbs was positive. Detected AAbs included anti-carbonic anhydrase II, anti-enolase, anti-arrestin, and anti-aldolase. DISCUSSION A partial deficiency in the AIRE on chromosome 21 has been described in DS. The similarities in the uveitis presentations within this patient group, the known autoimmune disease predisposition in DS, the recognized association of DS and AIRE deficiency, the reported detection of anti-retinal antibodies in patients with DS in general, and the presence of anti-retinal AAbs in three subjects in our series supports a causal association between DS and autoimmune eye disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr M Zaki
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Jerry C Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan
| | | | - Bryn M Burkholder
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lyndell L Lim
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stephanie M Llop
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Eric B Suhler
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Portland Veterans Administration Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Grazyna Adamus
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - James T Rosenbaum
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Legacy Devers Eye Institute, Portland, OR, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Corvus Pharmaceuticals, Burlingame, CA, USA.
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7
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Yin M, Smith JA, Chou M, Chan J, Jittayasothorn Y, Gould DB, Caspi RR, Anderson MS, DeFranco AL. Tracking the role of Aire in immune tolerance to the eye with a TCR transgenic mouse model. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2311487121. [PMID: 38261611 PMCID: PMC10835137 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311487121] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Roughly one-half of mice with partial defects in two immune tolerance pathways (AireGW/+Lyn-/- mice) spontaneously develop severe damage to their retinas due to T cell reactivity to Aire-regulated interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP). Single-cell T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing of CD4+ T cells specific for a predominate epitope of IRBP showed a remarkable diversity of autoantigen-specific TCRs with greater clonal expansions in mice with disease. TCR transgenic mice made with an expanded IRBP-specific TCR (P2.U2) of intermediate affinity exhibited strong but incomplete negative selection of thymocytes. This negative selection was absent in IRBP-/- mice and greatly defective in AireGW/+ mice. Most P2.U2+/- mice and all P2.U.2+/-AireGW/+ mice rapidly developed inflammation of the retina and adjacent uvea (uveitis). Aire-dependent IRBP expression in the thymus also promoted Treg differentiation, but the niche for this fate determination was small, suggesting differences in antigen presentation leading to negative selection vs. thymic Treg differentiation and a stronger role for negative selection in preventing autoimmune disease in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mianmian Yin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - Jennifer A Smith
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - Marissa Chou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - Jackie Chan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | | | - Douglas B Gould
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
- Department of Anatomy, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Bakar Aging Research Institute, and Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - Rachel R Caspi
- Laboratory of Immunology, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892-1857
| | - Mark S Anderson
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - Anthony L DeFranco
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
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8
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Rackaityte E, Proekt I, Miller HS, Ramesh A, Brooks JF, Kung AF, Mandel-Brehm C, Yu D, Zamecnik CR, Bair R, Vazquez SE, Sunshine S, Abram CL, Lowell CA, Rizzuto G, Wilson MR, Zikherman J, Anderson MS, DeRisi JL. Validation of a murine proteome-wide phage display library for identification of autoantibody specificities. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e174976. [PMID: 37934865 PMCID: PMC10795829 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.174976] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmunity is characterized by loss of tolerance to tissue-specific as well as systemic antigens, resulting in complex autoantibody landscapes. Here, we introduce and extensively validate the performance characteristics of a murine proteome-wide library for phage display immunoprecipitation and sequencing (PhIP-seq) in profiling mouse autoantibodies. This library was validated using 7 genetically distinct mouse lines across a spectrum of autoreactivity. Mice deficient in antibody production (Rag2-/- and μMT) were used to model nonspecific peptide enrichments, while cross-reactivity was evaluated using anti-ovalbumin B cell receptor-restricted OB1 mice as a proof of principle. The PhIP-seq approach was then utilized to interrogate 3 distinct autoimmune disease models. First, serum from Lyn-/- IgD+/- mice with lupus-like disease was used to identify nuclear and apoptotic bleb reactivities. Second, serum from nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice, a polygenic model of pancreas-specific autoimmunity, was enriched in peptides derived from both insulin and predicted pancreatic proteins. Lastly, Aire-/- mouse sera were used to identify numerous autoantigens, many of which were also observed in previous studies of humans with autoimmune polyendocrinopathy syndrome type 1 carrying recessive mutations in AIRE. These experiments support the use of murine proteome-wide PhIP-seq for antigenic profiling and autoantibody discovery, which may be employed to study a range of immune perturbations in mouse models of autoimmunity profiling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Haleigh S. Miller
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
- Biological and Medical Informatics Program
| | - Akshaya Ramesh
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine
| | - Jeremy F. Brooks
- Division of Rheumatology, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Rheumatology Research Center, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Andrew F. Kung
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
- Biological and Medical Informatics Program
| | | | - David Yu
- Diabetes Center, School of Medicine
| | - Colin R. Zamecnik
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine
| | - Rebecca Bair
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine
| | - Sara E. Vazquez
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
- Diabetes Center, School of Medicine
| | | | - Clare L. Abram
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Gabrielle Rizzuto
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program and Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Michael R. Wilson
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine
| | - Julie Zikherman
- Division of Rheumatology, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Rheumatology Research Center, Department of Medicine, and
| | | | - Joseph L. DeRisi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California, USA
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9
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Michelson DA, Zuo C, Verzi M, Benoist C, Mathis D. Hnf4 activates mimetic-cell enhancers to recapitulate gut and liver development within the thymus. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20230461. [PMID: 37399024 PMCID: PMC10318407 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20230461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mimetic cells are medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) that mimic extra-thymic cell types to tolerize T cells to self-antigens. Here, we dissected the biology of entero-hepato mTECs, mimetic cells expressing gut- and liver-associated transcripts. Entero-hepato mTECs conserved their thymic identity yet accessed wide swaths of enterocyte chromatin and transcriptional programs via the transcription factors Hnf4α and Hnf4γ. Deletion of Hnf4α and Hnf4γ in TECs ablated entero-hepato mTECs and downregulated numerous gut- and liver-associated transcripts, with a primary contribution from Hnf4γ. Loss of Hnf4 impaired enhancer activation and CTCF redistribution in mTECs but did not impact Polycomb-mediated repression or promoter-proximal histone marks. By single-cell RNA sequencing, Hnf4 loss produced three distinct effects on mimetic cell state, fate, and accumulation. Serendipitously, a requirement for Hnf4 in microfold mTECs was discovered, which exposed a requirement for Hnf4γ in gut microfold cells and the IgA response. Study of Hnf4 in entero-hepato mTECs thus revealed mechanisms of gene control in the thymus and periphery alike.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chong Zuo
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Verzi
- Department of Genetics, Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | | | - Diane Mathis
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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10
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Lagou MK, Karagiannis GS. Obesity-induced thymic involution and cancer risk. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 93:3-19. [PMID: 37088128 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.04.008] [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: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Declining thymic functions associated either with old age (i.e., age-related thymic involution), or with acute involution as a result of stress, infectious disease, or cytoreductive therapies (e.g., chemotherapy/radiotherapy), have been associated with cancer development. A key mechanism underlying such increased cancer risk is the thymus-dependent debilitation of adaptive immunity, which is responsible for orchestrating immunoediting mechanisms and tumor immune surveillance. In the past few years, a blooming set of evidence has intriguingly linked obesity with cancer development and progression. The majority of such studies has focused on obesity-driven chronic inflammation, steroid/sex hormone and adipokine production, and hyperinsulinemia, as principal factors affecting the tumor microenvironment and driving the development of primary malignancy. However, experimental observations about the negative impact of obesity on T cell development and maturation have existed for more than half a century. Here, we critically discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms of obesity-driven thymic involution as a previously underrepresented intermediary pathology leading to cancer development and progression. This knowledge could be especially relevant in the context of childhood obesity, because impaired thymic function in young individuals leads to immune system abnormalities, and predisposes to various pediatric cancers. A thorough understanding behind the molecular and cellular circuitries governing obesity-induced thymic involution could therefore help towards the rationalized development of targeted thymic regeneration strategies for obese individuals at high risk of cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria K Lagou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Tumor Microenvironment of Metastasis Program, Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - George S Karagiannis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Tumor Microenvironment of Metastasis Program, Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Bronx, NY, USA; Cancer Dormancy and Tumor Microenvironment Institute, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Integrated Imaging Program for Cancer Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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11
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Rosenbaum J, Zaki A, Pasadhika S, Huang J, Thomas A, Burkholder B, Lim L, Llop S, Suhler E, Adamus G. Characterization of autoimmune eye disease in association with Down's Syndrome. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2766021. [PMID: 37205347 PMCID: PMC10187437 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2766021/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Background Autoimmunity and deficiency of the transcription factor autoimmune regulator protein (AIRE) are known associations with Down Syndrome (DS). Lack of AIRE abrogates thymic tolerance. The autoimmune eye disease associated with DS has not been characterized. We identified a series of subjects with DS (n = 8) and uveitis. In 3 consecutive subjects, we tested the hypothesis that autoimmunity to retinal antigens might be a contributing factor. Subjects/Methods: This was a multicentered, retrospective case series. De-identified clinical data of subjects with both DS and uveitis were collected via questionnaire by uveitis-trained ophthalmologists. Anti-retinal autoantibodies (AAbs) were detected using an Autoimmune Retinopathy Panel tested in the OHSU Ocular Immunology Laboratory. Results We characterized 8 subjects (mean age 29 [range, 19-37] years). The mean age of uveitis onset was 23.5 [range, 11-33] years. All 8 subjects had bilateral uveitis (p < 0.001 based on comparison to published university referral patterns), with anterior and intermediate uveitis found in 6 and 5 subjects respectively. Each of three subjects tested for anti-retinal AAbs was positive. Detected AAbs included anti-carbonic anhydrase II, anti-enolase, anti-arrestin, and anti-aldolase. Discussion A partial deficiency in the AIRE on chromosome 21 has been described in DS. The similarities in the uveitis presentations within this patient group, the known autoimmune disease predisposition in DS, the recognized association of DS and AIRE deficiency, the reported detection of anti-retinal antibodies in patients with DS in general, and the presence of anti-retinal AAbs in 3 subjects in our series supports a causal association between DS and autoimmune eye disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jerry Huang
- Keelung Chang Gung Memorial hospital, Keelung
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12
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Rackaityte E, Proekt I, Miller HS, Ramesh A, Brooks JF, Kung AF, Mandel-Brehm C, Yu D, Zamecnik C, Bair R, Vazquez SE, Sunshine S, Abram CL, Lowell CA, Rizzuto G, Wilson MR, Zikherman J, Anderson MS, DeRisi JL. Validation of a murine proteome-wide phage display library for the identification of autoantibody specificities. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.07.535899. [PMID: 37066405 PMCID: PMC10104109 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.07.535899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmunity is characterized by loss of tolerance to tissue-specific as well as systemic antigens, resulting in complex autoantibody landscapes. Here, we introduce and extensively validate the performance characteristics of a murine proteome-wide library for phage display immunoprecipitation and sequencing (PhIP-seq), to profile mouse autoantibodies. This system and library were validated using seven genetic mouse models across a spectrum of autoreactivity. Mice deficient in antibody production (Rag2-/- and μMT) were used to model non-specific peptide enrichments, while cross-reactivity was evaluated using anti-ovalbumin B cell receptor (BCR)-restricted OB1 mice as a proof of principle. The PhIP-seq approach was then utilized to interrogate three distinct autoimmune disease models. First, serum from Lyn-/- IgD+/- mice with lupus-like disease was used to identify nuclear and apoptotic bleb reactivities, lending support to the hypothesis that apoptosis is a shared origin of these antigens. Second, serum from non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice, a polygenic model of pancreas-specific autoimmunity, enriched peptides derived from both insulin and predicted pancreatic proteins. Lastly, Aire-/- mouse sera were used to identify numerous auto-antigens, many of which were also observed in previous studies of humans with autoimmune polyendocrinopathy syndrome type 1 (APS1) carrying recessive mutations in AIRE. Among these were peptides derived from Perilipin-1, a validated autoimmune biomarker of generalized acquired lipodystrophy in humans. Autoreactivity to Perilipin-1 correlated with lymphocyte infiltration in adipose tissue and underscores the approach in revealing previously unknown specificities. These experiments support the use of murine proteome-wide PhIP-seq for antigenic profiling and autoantibody discovery, which may be employed to study a range of immune perturbations in mouse models of autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elze Rackaityte
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Irina Proekt
- Diabetes Center, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Haleigh S. Miller
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
- Biological and Medical Informatics Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Akshaya Ramesh
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Jeremy F. Brooks
- Division of Rheumatology, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Rheumatology Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Andrew F. Kung
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
- Biological and Medical Informatics Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Caleigh Mandel-Brehm
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - David Yu
- Diabetes Center, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Colin Zamecnik
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Rebecca Bair
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Sara E. Vazquez
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
- Diabetes Center, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Sara Sunshine
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Clare L. Abram
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Clifford A. Lowell
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gabrielle Rizzuto
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program and Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, NY, NY
| | - Michael R. Wilson
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Julie Zikherman
- Division of Rheumatology, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Rheumatology Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Mark S. Anderson
- Diabetes Center, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Joseph L. DeRisi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
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13
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Sundaresan B, Shirafkan F, Ripperger K, Rattay K. The Role of Viral Infections in the Onset of Autoimmune Diseases. Viruses 2023; 15:v15030782. [PMID: 36992490 PMCID: PMC10051805 DOI: 10.3390/v15030782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are the consequence of a breach in immune tolerance, leading to the inability to sufficiently differentiate between self and non-self. Immune reactions that are targeted towards self-antigens can ultimately lead to the destruction of the host's cells and the development of autoimmune diseases. Although autoimmune disorders are comparatively rare, the worldwide incidence and prevalence is increasing, and they have major adverse implications for mortality and morbidity. Genetic and environmental factors are thought to be the major factors contributing to the development of autoimmunity. Viral infections are one of the environmental triggers that can lead to autoimmunity. Current research suggests that several mechanisms, such as molecular mimicry, epitope spreading, and bystander activation, can cause viral-induced autoimmunity. Here we describe the latest insights into the pathomechanisms of viral-induced autoimmune diseases and discuss recent findings on COVID-19 infections and the development of AIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhargavi Sundaresan
- Institute of Pharmacology, Biochemical Pharmacological Center, University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Fatemeh Shirafkan
- Institute of Pharmacology, Biochemical Pharmacological Center, University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Kevin Ripperger
- Institute of Pharmacology, Biochemical Pharmacological Center, University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Kristin Rattay
- Institute of Pharmacology, Biochemical Pharmacological Center, University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
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14
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Becker K, Weigelt CM, Fuchs H, Viollet C, Rust W, Wyatt H, Huber J, Lamla T, Fernandez-Albert F, Simon E, Zippel N, Bakker RA, Klein H, Redemann NH. Transcriptome analysis of AAV-induced retinopathy models expressing human VEGF, TNF-α, and IL-6 in murine eyes. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19395. [PMID: 36371417 PMCID: PMC9653384 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23065-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinopathies are multifactorial diseases with complex pathologies that eventually lead to vision loss. Animal models facilitate the understanding of the pathophysiology and identification of novel treatment options. However, each animal model reflects only specific disease aspects and understanding of the specific molecular changes in most disease models is limited. Here, we conducted transcriptome analysis of murine ocular tissue transduced with recombinant Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) expressing either human VEGF-A, TNF-α, or IL-6. VEGF expression led to a distinct regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated genes. In contrast, both TNF-α and IL-6 led to more comparable gene expression changes in interleukin signaling, and the complement cascade, with TNF-α-induced changes being more pronounced. Furthermore, integration of single cell RNA-Sequencing data suggested an increase of endothelial cell-specific marker genes by VEGF, while TNF-α expression increased the expression T-cell markers. Both TNF-α and IL-6 expression led to an increase in macrophage markers. Finally, transcriptomic changes in AAV-VEGF treated mice largely overlapped with gene expression changes observed in the oxygen-induced retinopathy model, especially regarding ECM components and endothelial cell-specific gene expression. Altogether, our study represents a valuable investigation of gene expression changes induced by VEGF, TNF-α, and IL-6 and will aid researchers in selecting appropriate animal models for retinopathies based on their agreement with the human pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kolja Becker
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Global Computational Biology & Digital Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Carina M. Weigelt
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Holger Fuchs
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Coralie Viollet
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Global Computational Biology & Digital Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Werner Rust
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Global Computational Biology & Digital Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Hannah Wyatt
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Jochen Huber
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Clinical Development & Operations Corporate, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Thorsten Lamla
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Francesc Fernandez-Albert
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Global Computational Biology & Digital Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Eric Simon
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Global Computational Biology & Digital Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Nina Zippel
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Remko A. Bakker
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Holger Klein
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Global Computational Biology & Digital Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Norbert H. Redemann
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
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15
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Michelson DA, Mathis D. Thymic mimetic cells: tolerogenic masqueraders. Trends Immunol 2022; 43:782-791. [PMID: 36008259 PMCID: PMC9509455 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2022.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) clonally delete or divert autoreactive T cells by ectopically expressing a diverse array of peripheral-tissue antigens (PTAs) within the thymus. Although thymic stromal cells with histological features of extra-thymic cell types, like myocytes or neurons, have been observed by light microscopy since the mid-1800s, most modern work on PTA expression has focused on the transcription factor Aire. Here, we highlight recent work that has refocused attention on such 'misplaced' thymic cells, referred to collectively as thymic mimetic cells. We review the molecular underpinnings of mimetic cells and their roles in establishing T cell tolerance, and we propose that mimetic cells play important roles in autoimmunity. Finally, we suggest future directions for this emerging area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diane Mathis
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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16
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Qi Y, Zhang R, Lu Y, Zou X, Yang W. Aire and Fezf2, two regulators in medullary thymic epithelial cells, control autoimmune diseases by regulating TSAs: Partner or complementer? Front Immunol 2022; 13:948259. [PMID: 36110862 PMCID: PMC9468217 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.948259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of tissue-specific antigens (TSAs) in medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) is believed to be responsible for the elimination of autoreactive T cells, a critical process in the maintenance of central immune tolerance. The transcription factor autoimmune regulator (Aire) and FEZ family zinc finger 2(Fezf2) play an essential role in driving the expression of TSAs in mTECs, while their deficiency in humans and mice causes a range of autoimmune manifestations, such as type 1 diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis. However, because of their regulatory mechanisms, the expression profile of TSAs and their relationship with special autoimmune diseases are still in dispute. In this review, we compare the roles of Aire and Fezf2 in regulating TSAs, with an emphasis on their molecular mechanisms in autoimmune diseases, which provides the foundation for devising improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Wei Yang
- *Correspondence: Wei Yang, ; Xueyang Zou,
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17
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Carter JA, Strömich L, Peacey M, Chapin SR, Velten L, Steinmetz LM, Brors B, Pinto S, Meyer HV. Transcriptomic diversity in human medullary thymic epithelial cells. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4296. [PMID: 35918316 PMCID: PMC9345899 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31750-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The induction of central T cell tolerance in the thymus depends on the presentation of peripheral self-epitopes by medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs). This promiscuous gene expression (pGE) drives mTEC transcriptomic diversity, with non-canonical transcript initiation, alternative splicing, and expression of endogenous retroelements (EREs) representing important but incompletely understood contributors. Here we map the expression of genome-wide transcripts in immature and mature human mTECs using high-throughput 5' cap and RNA sequencing. Both mTEC populations show high splicing entropy, potentially driven by the expression of peripheral splicing factors. During mTEC maturation, rates of global transcript mis-initiation increase and EREs enriched in long terminal repeat retrotransposons are up-regulated, the latter often found in proximity to differentially expressed genes. As a resource, we provide an interactive public interface for exploring mTEC transcriptomic diversity. Our findings therefore help construct a map of transcriptomic diversity in the healthy human thymus and may ultimately facilitate the identification of those epitopes which contribute to autoimmunity and immune recognition of tumor antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A. Carter
- grid.225279.90000 0004 0387 3667Simons Center for Quantitative Biology, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY USA ,grid.36425.360000 0001 2216 9681Medical Scientist Training Program, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Léonie Strömich
- grid.7497.d0000 0004 0492 0584German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany ,grid.7445.20000 0001 2113 8111Present Address: Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew Peacey
- grid.225279.90000 0004 0387 3667School of Biological Sciences, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY USA
| | - Sarah R. Chapin
- grid.225279.90000 0004 0387 3667Simons Center for Quantitative Biology, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY USA
| | - Lars Velten
- grid.473715.30000 0004 6475 7299Centre for Genomic Regulation, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain ,grid.5612.00000 0001 2172 2676Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lars M. Steinmetz
- grid.4709.a0000 0004 0495 846XEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory, Genome Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany ,grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA ,grid.168010.e0000000419368956Stanford Genome Technology Center, Palo Alto, CA USA
| | - Benedikt Brors
- grid.7497.d0000 0004 0492 0584German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sheena Pinto
- grid.7497.d0000 0004 0492 0584German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hannah V. Meyer
- grid.225279.90000 0004 0387 3667Simons Center for Quantitative Biology, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY USA
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18
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Lancaster JN, Keatinge‐Clay DE, Srinivasan J, Li Y, Selden HJ, Nam S, Richie ER, Ehrlich LIR. Central tolerance is impaired in the middle-aged thymic environment. Aging Cell 2022; 21:e13624. [PMID: 35561351 PMCID: PMC9197411 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the earliest hallmarks of immune aging is thymus involution, which not only reduces the number of newly generated and exported T cells, but also alters the composition and organization of the thymus microenvironment. Thymic T‐cell export continues into adulthood, yet the impact of thymus involution on the quality of newly generated T‐cell clones is not well established. Notably, the number and proportion of medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) and expression of tissue‐restricted antigens (TRAs) decline with age, suggesting the involuting thymus may not promote efficient central tolerance. Here, we demonstrate that the middle‐aged thymic environment does not support rapid motility of medullary thymocytes, potentially diminishing their ability to scan antigen presenting cells (APCs) that display the diverse self‐antigens that induce central tolerance. Consistent with this possibility, thymic slice assays reveal that the middle‐aged thymic environment does not support efficient negative selection or regulatory T‐cell (Treg) induction of thymocytes responsive to either TRAs or ubiquitous self‐antigens. This decline in central tolerance is not universal, but instead impacts lower‐avidity self‐antigens that are either less abundant or bind to TCRs with moderate affinities. Additionally, the decline in thymic tolerance by middle age is accompanied by both a reduction in mTECs and hematopoietic APC subsets that cooperate to drive central tolerance. Thus, age‐associated changes in the thymic environment result in impaired central tolerance against moderate‐avidity self‐antigens, potentially resulting in export of increasingly autoreactive naive T cells, with a deficit of Treg counterparts by middle age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica N. Lancaster
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | | | - Jayashree Srinivasan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | - Hilary J. Selden
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | - Seohee Nam
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | - Ellen R. Richie
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| | - Lauren I. R. Ehrlich
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
- Department of Oncology Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
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19
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Weigelt CM, Zippel N, Fuchs H, Rimpelä AK, Schönberger T, Stierstorfer B, Bakker RA, Redemann NH. Characterization and Validation of In Vitro and In Vivo Models to Investigate TNF-α-Induced Inflammation in Retinal Diseases. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:18. [PMID: 35579886 PMCID: PMC9123507 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.5.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Inflammation is implicated in the etiology of diverse retinopathies including uveitis, age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a well-known proinflammatory cytokine that is described as a biomarker for inflammation in diverse retinopathies and therefore emerged as an interesting target to treat inflammation in the eye by neutralizing anti-TNF-α antibodies. Methods Recently, we have demonstrated that Adeno-associated virus (AAV)–mediated expression of human TNF-α in the murine eye induces retinal inflammation including vasculitis and fibrosis, thereby mimicking human disease-relevant pathologies. In a proof-of-mechanism study, we now tested whether AAV-TNF-α induced pathologies can be reversed by neutralizing TNF-α antibody treatment. Results Strikingly, a single intravitreal injection of the TNF-α antibody golimumab reduced AAV-TNF-α–induced retinal inflammation and retinal thickening. Furthermore, AAV-TNF-α–mediated impaired retinal function was partially rescued by golimumab as revealed by electroretinography recordings. Finally, to study TNF-α-induced vasculitis in human in vitro cell culture assays, we established a monocyte-to-endothelium adhesion co-culture system. Indeed, also in vitro TNF-α induced monocyte adhesion to human retinal endothelial cells, which was prevented by golimumab. Conclusions Overall, our study describes valuable in vitro and in vivo approaches to study the function of TNF-α in retinal inflammation and demonstrated a preclinical proof-of-mechanism treatment with golimumab. Translational Relevance The AAV-based model expressing human TNF-α allows us to investigate TNF-α–driven pathologies supporting research in mechanisms of retinal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina M Weigelt
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Nina Zippel
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Holger Fuchs
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Anna-Kaisa Rimpelä
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Tanja Schönberger
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Birgit Stierstorfer
- Nonclinical Drug Safety, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co.KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Remko A Bakker
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Norbert H Redemann
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
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20
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Ferré EMN, Schmitt MM, Lionakis MS. Autoimmune Polyendocrinopathy-Candidiasis-Ectodermal Dystrophy. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:723532. [PMID: 34790633 PMCID: PMC8591095 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.723532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED), also known as autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type-1 (APS-1), is a rare monogenic autoimmune disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene. AIRE deficiency impairs immune tolerance in the thymus and results in the peripheral escape of self-reactive T lymphocytes and the generation of several cytokine- and tissue antigen-targeted autoantibodies. APECED features a classic triad of characteristic clinical manifestations consisting of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC), hypoparathyroidism, and primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease). In addition, APECED patients develop several non-endocrine autoimmune manifestations with variable frequencies, whose recognition by pediatricians should facilitate an earlier diagnosis and allow for the prompt implementation of targeted screening, preventive, and therapeutic strategies. This review summarizes our current understanding of the genetic, immunological, clinical, diagnostic, and treatment features of APECED.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michail S. Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
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21
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Oikonomou V, Break TJ, Gaffen SL, Moutsopoulos NM, Lionakis MS. Infections in the monogenic autoimmune syndrome APECED. Curr Opin Immunol 2021; 72:286-297. [PMID: 34418591 PMCID: PMC8578378 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2021.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) is caused by mutations in the Autoimmune Regulator (AIRE) gene, which impair the thymic negative selection of self-reactive T-cells and underlie the development of autoimmunity that targets multiple endocrine and non-endocrine tissues. Beyond autoimmunity, APECED features heightened susceptibility to certain specific infections, which is mediated by anti-cytokine autoantibodies and/or T-cell driven autoimmune tissue injury. These include the 'signature' APECED infection chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC), but also life-threatening coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia, bronchiectasis-associated bacterial pneumonia, and sepsis by encapsulated bacteria. Here we discuss the expanding understanding of the immunological mechanisms that contribute to infection susceptibility in this prototypic syndrome of impaired central tolerance, which provide the foundation for devising improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Oikonomou
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology & Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Timothy J Break
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology & Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sarah L Gaffen
- University of Pittsburgh, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Pittsburgh PA, USA
| | - Niki M Moutsopoulos
- Oral Immunity and Inflammation Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology & Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA.
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22
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Rosenbaum JT, Gill T, Martin TM. EnRAPtured: Is Endoplasmic Reticulum Aminopeptidase a New Clue to the Pathogenesis and ThERAPy of Uveitis? OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2021; 1:100056. [PMID: 36247819 PMCID: PMC9559087 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2021.100056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Klawon DEJ, Gilmore DC, Leonard JD, Miller CH, Chao JL, Walker MT, Duncombe RK, Tung KS, Adams EJ, Savage PA. Altered selection on a single self-ligand promotes susceptibility to organ-specific T cell infiltration. J Exp Med 2021; 218:212038. [PMID: 33914024 PMCID: PMC8091134 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20200701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
For the large array of self-peptide/MHC class II (pMHC-II) complexes displayed in the body, it is unclear whether CD4+ T cell tolerance must be imparted for each individual complex or whether pMHC-II–nonspecific bystander mechanisms are sufficient to confer tolerance by acting broadly on T cells reactive to multiple self-pMHC-II ligands. Here, via reconstitution of T cell–deficient mice, we demonstrate that altered T cell selection on a single prostate-specific self-pMHC-II ligand renders recipient mice susceptible to prostate-specific T cell infiltration. Mechanistically, this self-pMHC-II complex is required for directing antigen-specific cells into the Foxp3+ regulatory T cell lineage but does not induce clonal deletion to a measurable extent. Thus, our data demonstrate that polyclonal T reg cells are unable to functionally compensate for a breach in tolerance to a single self-pMHC-II complex in this setting, revealing vulnerabilities in antigen-nonspecific bystander mechanisms of immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dana C Gilmore
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - John D Leonard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Jaime L Chao
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Ryan K Duncombe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Kenneth S Tung
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Erin J Adams
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Peter A Savage
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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24
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Camacho-Ordonez N, Ballestar E, Timmers HTM, Grimbacher B. What can clinical immunology learn from inborn errors of epigenetic regulators? J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 147:1602-1618. [PMID: 33609625 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The epigenome is at the interface between environmental factors and the genome, regulating gene transcription, DNA repair, and replication. Epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining cell identity and are especially crucial for neurology, musculoskeletal integrity, and the function of the immune system. Mutations in genes encoding for the components of the epigenetic machinery lead to the development of distinct disorders, especially involving the central nervous system and host defense. In this review, we focus on the role of epigenetic modifications for the function of the immune system. By studying the immune phenotype of patients with monogenic mutations in components of the epigenetic machinery (inborn errors of epigenetic regulators), we demonstrate the importance of DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, noncoding RNAs, and mRNA processing for immunity. Moreover, we give a short overview on therapeutic strategies targeting the epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda Camacho-Ordonez
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Esteban Ballestar
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - H Th Marc Timmers
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Freiburg, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Urology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bodo Grimbacher
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; DZIF - German Center for Infection Research, Satellite Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; CIBSS - Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, Albert-Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany; RESIST- Cluster of Excellence 2155 to Hanover Medical School, Satellite Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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25
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B7-CD28 co-stimulation modulates central tolerance via thymic clonal deletion and Treg generation through distinct mechanisms. Nat Commun 2020; 11:6264. [PMID: 33293517 PMCID: PMC7722925 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20070-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular and cellular mechanisms mediating thymic central tolerance and prevention of autoimmunity are not fully understood. Here we show that B7-CD28 co-stimulation and B7 expression by specific antigen-presenting cell (APC) types are required for clonal deletion and for regulatory T (Treg) cell generation from endogenous tissue-restricted antigen (TRA)-specific thymocytes. While B7-CD28 interaction is required for both clonal deletion and Treg induction, these two processes differ in their CD28 signaling requirements and in their dependence on B7-expressing dendritic cells, B cells, and thymic epithelial cells. Meanwhile, defective thymic clonal deletion due to altered B7-CD28 signaling results in the accumulation of mature, peripheral TRA-specific T cells capable of mediating destructive autoimmunity. Our findings thus reveal a function of B7-CD28 co-stimulation in shaping the T cell repertoire and limiting autoimmunity through both thymic clonal deletion and Treg cell generation.
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26
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Han YS, Rivera-Grana E, Rosenbaum JT, Schleisman M, Davin S, Martin TM, Furst AB, Asquith M. Expression of Cytokines in Porcine Iris, Retina and Choroidal Tissues Stimulated by Microbe-associated Molecular Patterns. Curr Eye Res 2020; 46:255-262. [PMID: 32589043 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2020.1789176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The innate immune system is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of uveitis. This study was designed to clarify the responses of the innate immune system in uveal tissues. MATERIALS AND METHODS We utilized quantitative, real-time RT-PCR to measure mRNA of innate immune system receptors from porcine iris, choroid, and retina tissues. We used RT-PCR for cytokines to evaluate the responses of these tissues to specific ligands or extracts of whole bacteria that activate the innate immune system. We used ELISA for IL-6 on selected choroidal supernatants to confirm that the mRNA measurement correlated with protein levels. RESULTS In each of the studied tissues, we detected the expression of important receptors belonging to the innate immune system including dectin-1, TLR4, TLR8, and NOD2. Relative mRNA expression was generally lower in the retina compared to iris or choroid. All three tissues demonstrated upregulation of cytokine mRNA in response to a range of ligands that activate the innate immune system. The measurement of IL-6 protein was consistent with results based on mRNA. Notably, the expression of mRNA for IL-23 was more pronounced than IL-12 in all three tissues after stimulation with various innate immune system ligands. CONCLUSIONS These data provide evidence of a potent innate immune response intrinsic to uveal tissues. Specific innate immune system ligands as well as bacterial extracts enhanced the production of several inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, the observation of higher upregulation of IL-23 mRNA, compared to IL-12 in response to innate immune stimuli, suggested that a local TH17 response might be more robust than a local TH1 response in uveal tissues. Our results expand the understanding as to how the innate immune system may contribute to uveitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Seop Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA.,Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine , Jinju, Korea (The Republic of).,Department of Ophthalmology, Gyeongsang National University Changwon Hospital , Changwon, Korea (The Republic of)
| | - Erick Rivera-Grana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine , San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - James T Rosenbaum
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA.,Legacy Devers Eye Institute , Portland, OR, USA.,Division of Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA
| | - Matthew Schleisman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA
| | - Sean Davin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA
| | - Tammy M Martin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA
| | - Alec B Furst
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA
| | - Mark Asquith
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA.,Division of Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR, USA
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27
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Rausch MP, Meador LR, Metzger TC, Li H, Qiu S, Anderson MS, Hastings KT. GILT in Thymic Epithelial Cells Facilitates Central CD4 T Cell Tolerance to a Tissue-Restricted, Melanoma-Associated Self-Antigen. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 204:2877-2886. [PMID: 32269095 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1900523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Central tolerance prevents autoimmunity, but also limits T cell responses to potentially immunodominant tumor epitopes with limited expression in healthy tissues. In peripheral APCs, γ-IFN-inducible lysosomal thiol reductase (GILT) is critical for MHC class II-restricted presentation of disulfide bond-containing proteins, including the self-antigen and melanoma Ag tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TRP1). The role of GILT in thymic Ag processing and generation of central tolerance has not been investigated. We found that GILT enhanced the negative selection of TRP1-specific thymocytes in mice. GILT expression was enriched in thymic APCs capable of mediating deletion, namely medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) and dendritic cells, whereas TRP1 expression was restricted solely to mTECs. GILT facilitated MHC class II-restricted presentation of endogenous TRP1 by pooled thymic APCs. Using bone marrow chimeras, GILT expression in thymic epithelial cells (TECs), but not hematopoietic cells, was sufficient for complete deletion of TRP1-specific thymocytes. An increased frequency of TRP1-specific regulatory T (Treg) cells was present in chimeras with increased deletion of TRP1-specific thymocytes. Only chimeras that lacked GILT in both TECs and hematopoietic cells had a high conventional T/Treg cell ratio and were protected from melanoma challenge. Thus, GILT expression in thymic APCs, and mTECs in particular, preferentially facilitates MHC class II-restricted presentation, negative selection, and increased Treg cells, resulting in a diminished antitumor response to a tissue-restricted, melanoma-associated self-antigen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P Rausch
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85004; and
| | - Lydia R Meador
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85004; and
| | - Todd C Metzger
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - Handong Li
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85004; and
| | - Shenfeng Qiu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85004; and
| | - Mark S Anderson
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - K Taraszka Hastings
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85004; and
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28
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Zhong Z, Su G, Kijlstra A, Yang P. Activation of the interleukin-23/interleukin-17 signalling pathway in autoinflammatory and autoimmune uveitis. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 80:100866. [PMID: 32422390 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Uveitis is a group of diseases characterized by intraocular inflammation, of which some are driven by autoinflammatory or autoimmune responses, such as Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease, Behçet's disease, uveitis associated with spondyloarthritis, ocular sarcoidosis, sympathetic ophthalmia and birdshot chorioretinopathy. These entities have various clinical forms, but genetic and biomarker data suggest that they share a common molecular basis, activation of the Interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 pathway. Multiple factors including genetic predisposition, various cytokine imbalances, infectious agents and gut alterations are found to trigger an aberrant response of this pathway. The enhanced activity of the IL-23/IL-17 pathway is committed to the expansion and pathogenicity of Th17 cells. Evidence from animal models demonstrates that the development of pathogenic Th17 cells is responsible for the induction of experimental autoimmune uveitis. Further findings indicate that retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells may be a target of IL-17. IL-17 triggers downstream inflammatory cascades and causes dysfunction of RPE cells, which may affect retinal barrier function and thereby promote intraocular inflammation. Currently, several emerging drugs blocking the IL-23/IL-17 pathway have been assessed for the treatment of uveitis in pilot studies. The purpose of this is to summarize updated biological knowledge and preliminary clinical data, providing the rationale for further development and evaluation of novel drugs targeting the IL-23/IL-17 pathway in autoinflammatory and autoimmune uveitis. Future studies may focus on translational medicine targeting the IL-23/IL-17 pathway for the improvement of diagnosis and treatment of uveitis. In conclusion, activation of the IL-23/IL-17 pathway is a critical biological event and can be an important target for the treatment of autoinflammatory and autoimmune uveitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Zhong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China
| | - Guannan Su
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China
| | - Aize Kijlstra
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Peizeng Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China.
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29
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Comprehensive analysis of a mouse model of spontaneous uveoretinitis using single-cell RNA sequencing. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:26734-26744. [PMID: 31843893 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1915571116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune uveoretinitis is a significant cause of visual loss, and mouse models offer unique opportunities to study its disease mechanisms. Aire -/- mice fail to express self-antigens in the thymus, exhibit reduced central tolerance, and develop a spontaneous, chronic, and progressive uveoretinitis. Using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we characterized wild-type and Aire -/- retinas to define, in a comprehensive and unbiased manner, the cell populations and gene expression patterns associated with disease. Based on scRNA-seq, immunostaining, and in situ hybridization, we infer that 1) the dominant effector response in Aire -/- retinas is Th1-driven, 2) a subset of monocytes convert to either a macrophage/microglia state or a dendritic cell state, 3) the development of tertiary lymphoid structures constitutes part of the Aire -/- retinal phenotype, 4) all major resident retinal cell types respond to interferon gamma (IFNG) by changing their patterns of gene expression, and 5) Muller glia up-regulate specific genes in response to IFN gamma and may act as antigen-presenting cells.
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30
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Abstract
The generation of a functional T cell repertoire in the thymus is mainly orchestrated by thymic epithelial cells (TECs), which provide developing T cells with cues for their navigation, proliferation, differentiation and survival. The TEC compartment has been segregated historically into two major populations of medullary TECs and cortical TECs, which differ in their anatomical localization, molecular characteristics and functional roles. However, recent studies have shown that TECs are highly heterogeneous and comprise multiple subpopulations with distinct molecular and functional characteristics, including tuft cell-like or corneocyte-like phenotypes. Here, we review the most recent advances in our understanding of TEC heterogeneity from a molecular, functional and developmental perspective. In particular, we highlight the key insights that were recently provided by single-cell genomic technologies and in vivo fate mapping and discuss them in the context of previously published data.
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31
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Warren BD, Ahn SH, McGinnis LK, Grzesiak G, Su RW, Fazleabas AT, Christenson LK, Petroff BK, Petroff MG. Autoimmune Regulator is required in female mice for optimal embryonic development and implantation†. Biol Reprod 2019; 100:1492-1504. [PMID: 30770532 PMCID: PMC6561863 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2018] [Revised: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune Regulator (AIRE) regulates central immune tolerance by inducing expression of tissue-restricted antigens in thymic medullary epithelial cells, thereby ensuring elimination of autoreactive T cells. Aire mutations in humans and targeted Aire deletion in mice result in multiorgan autoimmune disease, known in humans as autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1 (APS-1). APS-1 is characterized by the presence of adrenal insufficiency, chronic mucosal candidiasis, and/or hypoparathyroidism. Additionally, females often present with gonadal insufficiency and infertility. Aire-deficiency (KO) in mice results in oophoritis and age-dependent depletion of follicular reserves. Here, we found that while the majority of young 6-week-old Aire-KO females had normal follicular reserves, mating behavior, and ovulation rates, 50% of females experienced embryonic loss between gestation day (GD) 5.5 and 7.5 that could not be attributed to insufficient progesterone production or decidualization. The quality of GD0.5 embryos recovered from Aire KO mice was reduced, and when cultured in vitro, embryos displayed limited developmental capacity in comparison to those recovered from wild-type (WT) mice. Further, embryos flushed from Aire KO dams at GD3.5 were developmentally delayed in comparison to WT controls and had reduced trophoblastic outgrowth in vitro. We conclude that AIRE does not play a direct role in uterine decidualization. Rather, reduced fertility of Aire-deficient females is likely due to multiple factors, including oophoritis, delayed preimplantation development, and compromised implantation. These effects may be explained by autoimmune targeting of the ovary, embryo, or both. Alternatively, altered embryonic development could be due to a direct role for AIRE in early embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryce D Warren
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Soo H Ahn
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Lynda K McGinnis
- Department of Physiology and Integrative Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Geoffrey Grzesiak
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Asgerally T Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Lane K Christenson
- Department of Physiology and Integrative Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Brian K Petroff
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Margaret G Petroff
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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32
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Sng J, Ayoglu B, Chen JW, Schickel JN, Ferre EMN, Glauzy S, Romberg N, Hoenig M, Cunningham-Rundles C, Utz PJ, Lionakis MS, Meffre E. AIRE expression controls the peripheral selection of autoreactive B cells. Sci Immunol 2019; 4:eaav6778. [PMID: 30979797 PMCID: PMC7257641 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.aav6778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune regulator (AIRE) mutations result in autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) syndrome characterized by defective central T cell tolerance and the production of many autoantibodies targeting tissue-specific antigens and cytokines. By studying CD3- and AIRE-deficient patients, we found that lack of either T cells or AIRE function resulted in the peripheral accumulation of autoreactive mature naïve B cells. Proteomic arrays and Biacore affinity measurements revealed that unmutated antibodies expressed by these autoreactive naïve B cells recognized soluble molecules and cytokines including insulin, IL-17A, and IL-17F, which are AIRE-dependent thymic peripheral tissue antigens targeted by autoimmune responses in APECED. AIRE-deficient patients also displayed decreased frequencies of regulatory T cells (Tregs) that lacked common TCRβ clones found instead in their conventional T cell compartment, thereby suggesting holes in the Treg TCR repertoire of these patients. Hence, AIRE-mediated T cell/Treg selection normally prevents the expansion of autoreactive naïve B cells recognizing peripheral self-antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Sng
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Burcu Ayoglu
- School of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jeff W Chen
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Jean-Nicolas Schickel
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Elise M N Ferre
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Salomé Glauzy
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Neil Romberg
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Manfred Hoenig
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Charlotte Cunningham-Rundles
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Paul J Utz
- School of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation, and Infection (ITI), Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Eric Meffre
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
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33
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Inglesfield S, Cosway EJ, Jenkinson WE, Anderson G. Rethinking Thymic Tolerance: Lessons from Mice. Trends Immunol 2019; 40:279-291. [PMID: 30803714 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2019.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In the thymus, distinct cortex and medulla areas emphasize the division of labor in selection events shaping the αβT cell receptor repertoire. For example, MHC restriction via positive selection is a unique property of epithelial cells in the thymic cortex. Far less clear are the events controlling tolerance induction in the medulla. By acting in concert through multiple roles, including antigen production/presentation and chemokine-mediated control of migration, we propose that medullary epithelium and dendritic cells collectively enable the medulla to balance T cell production with negative selection and Foxp3+ regulatory T cell (Treg) development. We examine here the features of these medullary resident cells and their roles in T cell tolerance, and discuss how imbalance in the thymus can result in loss of T cell tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Inglesfield
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Emilie J Cosway
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - William E Jenkinson
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Graham Anderson
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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34
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Abstract
Commensal microbes affect all aspects of immune development and homeostasis in health and disease. Increasing evidence points to the notion that the gut commensals impact not only intestinal diseases but also diseases in tissues distant from the gut. Autoimmune or non-infectious uveitis is a sight-threatening intraocular inflammation that affects the neuroretina. It is strongly T cell driven, but the precise causative mechanisms are not fully understood. We and others observed that depletion of gut microbiota in animal models of uveitis attenuated disease. Using a spontaneous model of the disease, we questioned how retina-specific uveitogenic T cells are primed when their cognate antigens are sequestered within the immune privileged eye. The data suggested that gut commensals provide a signal directly through the retina-specific T cell receptor and cause these autoreactive T cells to trigger uveitis. This activation of retina-specific T cells in the gut appears to be independent of the endogenous retinal antigen. Rather, the findings point to the notion that gut microbiota may mimic retinal antigen(s), however, the actual mimic has not yet been identified. Microbiota may also serve as an “adjuvant” providing innate signals that amplify and direct the host immune response for development of uveitis. In contrast, spontaneous uveitis that develops in AIRE−/− mice appears to be independent of gut microbiota. To date, available data on human microbiota in association with uveitis are very limited and causative relationships are difficult to establish. This review will summarize the current knowledge on the role of microbiome in uveitis and its underlying mechanisms, and discuss unresolved questions and issues in an attempt to explore the concept of gut-retina axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Horai
- Laboratory of Immunology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rachel R Caspi
- Laboratory of Immunology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Controlled release of corticosteroid with biodegradable nanoparticles for treating experimental autoimmune uveitis. J Control Release 2019; 296:68-80. [PMID: 30660629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Noninfectious uveitis is a potentially blinding ocular condition that often requires treatment with corticosteroids to prevent inflammation-related ocular complications. Severe forms of uveitis such as panuveitis that affects the whole eye often require a combination of topical and either regional or systemic corticosteroid. Regional corticosteroids are currently delivered inside the eye by intravitreal injection (e.g. Ozurdex®, an intravitreal dexamethasone implant). Intravitreal injection is associated with rare but potentially serious side effects, including endophthalmitis, retinal and vitreous hemorrhage, and retinal detachment. Subconjunctival (SCT) injection is a less invasive option that is a common route used for post-surgical drug administration and treatment of infection and severe inflammation. However, it is the water soluble form of dexamethasone, dexamethasone sodium phosphate (DSP), that has been demonstrated to achieve high intraocular penetration with subconjunctival injection. It is difficult to load highly water soluble drugs, such as DSP, and achieve sustained drug release using conventional encapsulation methods. We found that use of carboxyl-terminated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) allowed encapsulation of DSP into biodegradable nanoparticles (NP) with relatively high drug content (6% w/w) if divalent zinc ions were used as an ionic "bridge" between the PLGA and DSP. DSP-Zn-NP had an average diameter of 210 nm, narrow particle size distribution (polydispersity index ~0.1), and near neutral surface charge (-9 mV). DSP-Zn-NP administered by SCT injection provided detectable DSP levels in both the anterior chamber and vitreous chamber of the eye for at least 3 weeks. In a rat model of experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), inflammation was significantly reduced in both the front and back of the eye in animals that received a single SCT injection of DSP-Zn-NP as compared to animals that received either aqueous DSP solution or phosphate buffered saline (PBS). DSP-Zn-NP efficacy was evidenced by a reduced clinical disease score, decreased expression of various inflammatory cytokines, and preserved retinal structure and function. Furthermore, SCT DSP-Zn-NP significantly reduced microglia cell density in the retina, a hallmark of EAU in rats. DSP-Zn-NP hold promise as a new strategy to treat noninfectious uveitis and potentially other ocular inflammatory disorders.
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Constantine GM, Lionakis MS. Lessons from primary immunodeficiencies: Autoimmune regulator and autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy. Immunol Rev 2019; 287:103-120. [PMID: 30565240 PMCID: PMC6309421 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) protein and the delineation of its critical contributions in the establishment of central immune tolerance has significantly expanded our understanding of the immunological mechanisms that protect from the development of autoimmune disease. The parallel identification and characterization of patient cohorts with the monogenic disorder autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED), which is typically caused by biallelic AIRE mutations, has underscored the critical contribution of AIRE in fungal immune surveillance at mucosal surfaces and in prevention of multiorgan autoimmunity in humans. In this review, we synthesize the current clinical, genetic, molecular and immunological knowledge derived from basic studies in Aire-deficient animals and from APECED patient cohorts. We also outline major advances and research endeavors that show promise for informing improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for patients with APECED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M Constantine
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Abstract
Inflammatory intraocular eye diseases, grouped under the term uveitis are blinding conditions, believed to be mediated by pathogenic autoimmune processes that overcome the protective mechanisms of the immune privilege status of the eye. An animal model for these diseases, named experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), is induced by initiation of immunity against ocular-specific antigens, or it develops spontaneously in mice with T-cells that transgenically express TCR specific to the target eye antigen(s). T-Cells specific to ocular antigens are generated in the thymus and their majority are eliminated by exposure to their target antigen expressed in this organ. T-cells that escape this negative selection acquire pathogenicity by their activation with the target antigen. In spontaneous EAU, the microbiota play crucial roles in the acquisition of pathogenicity by providing both antigenic stimulation, by molecules that mimic the target ocular antigen, and an additional stimulation that allows invasion of tissues that harbor the target antigen. The pathogenic process is physiologically inhibited by the peripheral tolerance, composed of antigen-specific T-regulatory (Treg) lymphocytes. Deleting the Tregs enhances the ocular inflammation, whereas adoptively transferring them suppresses the pathogenic response. Potential usage of Treg cells for suppression of autoimmune diseases in humans is under intensive investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igal Gery
- Laboratory of Immunology, National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Usharauli D, Kamala T. Concurrent cross-reactivity of microbiota-derived epitopes to both self and pathogens may underlie the “Hygiene hypothesis”. Scand J Immunol 2018; 88:e12708. [DOI: 10.1111/sji.12708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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40
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Nalawade SA, Ji N, Raphael I, Pratt A, Kraig E, Forsthuber TG. Aire is not essential for regulating neuroinflammatory disease in mice transgenic for human autoimmune-diseases associated MHC class II genes HLA-DR2b and HLA-DR4. Cell Immunol 2018; 331:38-48. [PMID: 29789121 PMCID: PMC6092225 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The human autoimmune disease-associated HLA alleles HLA-DR2b (DRB1*1501) and HLA-DR4 (DRB1*0401) are strongly linked to increased susceptibility for multiple sclerosis (MS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), respectively. The underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, but these MHC alleles may shape the repertoire of pathogenic T cells via central tolerance. The transcription factor autoimmune regulator (AIRE) promotes central T cell tolerance via ectopic expression of tissue-specific antigens (TSAs). Aire deficiency in humans causes autoimmune polyendocrinopathy syndrome type 1 (APS1), and Aire knockout mice (Aire-/-) develop spontaneous autoimmune pathology characterized by multi-organ lymphocytic infiltrates. Here, we asked whether impaired TSAs gene expression in the absence of Aire promoted spontaneous MS- or RA-like autoimmune pathology in the context of human HLA alleles in HLA-DR2b or HLA-DR4 transgenic (tg) mice. The results show that reduced TSAs gene expression in the thymus of Aire-deficient HLA-DR2b or HLA-DR4 tg mice corresponded to mild spontaneous inflammatory infiltrates in salivary glands, liver, and pancreas. Moreover, Aire-deficiency modestly enhanced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in HLA-DR tg mice, but the animals did not show signs of spontaneous neuroinflammation or arthritis. No significant changes were observed in CD4+ T cell numbers, T cell receptor (TCR) distribution, regulatory T cells (Treg), or antigen-induced cytokine production. Abrogating Treg function by treatment with anti-CTLA-4 or anti-CD25 mAb in Aire-deficient HLA-DR tg mice did not trigger EAE or other autoimmune pathology. Our results suggest a redundant role for Aire in maintaining immune tolerance in the context of autoimmune disease-associated human HLA alleles.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens/immunology
- Antigens/metabolism
- Arthritis, Rheumatoid/genetics
- Arthritis, Rheumatoid/immunology
- Arthritis, Rheumatoid/metabolism
- Autoimmune Diseases/genetics
- Autoimmune Diseases/immunology
- Autoimmune Diseases/metabolism
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/genetics
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/immunology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/metabolism
- HLA-DR2 Antigen/genetics
- HLA-DR2 Antigen/immunology
- HLA-DR2 Antigen/metabolism
- HLA-DR4 Antigen/genetics
- HLA-DR4 Antigen/immunology
- HLA-DR4 Antigen/metabolism
- Humans
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, Transgenic
- Multiple Sclerosis/genetics
- Multiple Sclerosis/immunology
- Multiple Sclerosis/metabolism
- Organ Specificity/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Transcription Factors/genetics
- Transcription Factors/immunology
- Transcription Factors/metabolism
- AIRE Protein
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Affiliation(s)
- Saisha A Nalawade
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, United States
| | - Niannian Ji
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, United States
| | - Itay Raphael
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States
| | - Andrew Pratt
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit, San Antonio, TX 78234, United States
| | - Ellen Kraig
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health, San Antonio, TX 78229, United States
| | - Thomas G Forsthuber
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, United States.
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Sekiya T, Hibino S, Saeki K, Kanamori M, Takaki S, Yoshimura A. Nr4a Receptors Regulate Development and Death of Labile Treg Precursors to Prevent Generation of Pathogenic Self-Reactive Cells. Cell Rep 2018; 24:1627-1638.e6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
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Pohar J, Simon Q, Fillatreau S. Antigen-Specificity in the Thymic Development and Peripheral Activity of CD4 +FOXP3 + T Regulatory Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1701. [PMID: 30083162 PMCID: PMC6064734 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
CD4+Foxp3+ T regulatory cells (Treg) are essential for the life of the organism, in particular because they protect the host against its own autoaggressive CD4+Foxp3- T lymphocytes (Tconv). Treg distinctively suppress autoaggressive immunity while permitting efficient defense against infectious diseases. This split effect indicates that Treg activity is controlled in an antigen-specific manner. This specificity is achieved first by the formation of the Treg repertoire during their development, and second by their activation in the periphery. This review presents novel information on the antigen-specificity of Treg development in the thymus, and Treg function in the periphery. These aspects have so far remained imprecisely understood due to the lack of knowledge of the actual antigens recognized by Treg during the different steps of their life, so that most previous studies have been performed using artificial antigens. However, recent studies identified some antigens mediating the positive selection of autoreactive Treg in the thymus, and the function of Treg in the periphery in autoimmune and allergic disorders. These investigations emphasized the remarkable specificity of Treg development and function. Indeed, the development of autoreactive Treg in the thymus was found to be mediated by single autoantigens, so that the absence of one antigen led to a dramatic loss of Treg reacting toward that antigen. The specificity of Treg development is important because the constitution of the Treg repertoire, and especially the presence of holes in this repertoire, was found to crucially influence human immunopathology. Indeed, it was found that the development of human immunopathology was permitted by the lack of Treg against the antigens driving the autoimmune or allergic T cell responses rather than by the impairment of Treg activation or function. The specificity of Treg suppression in the periphery is therefore intimately associated with the mechanisms shaping the formation of the Treg repertoire during their development. This novel information refines significantly our understanding of the antigen-specificity of Treg protective function, which is required to envision how these cells distinctively regulate unwanted immune responses as well as for the development of appropriate approaches to optimally harness them therapeutically in autoimmune, malignant, and infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelka Pohar
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, INSERM U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Paris, France
| | - Quentin Simon
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, INSERM U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Paris, France
| | - Simon Fillatreau
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, INSERM U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Paris, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.,AP-HP, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
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43
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Thyagarajan HM, Lancaster JN, Lira SA, Ehrlich LIR. CCR8 is expressed by post-positive selection CD4-lineage thymocytes but is dispensable for central tolerance induction. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200765. [PMID: 30024927 PMCID: PMC6053179 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Following positive selection, thymocytes migrate into the medulla where they encounter diverse self-antigens that induce central tolerance. Thymocytes expressing T cell receptors (TCRs) with high affinity for self-antigens displayed by medullary antigen presenting cells (APCs) undergo either negative selection or diversion to the regulatory T cell (Treg) lineage, thus ensuring maturation of non-autoreactive T cells. Because many self-antigens are expressed by only a small percentage of medullary thymic epithelial cells, thymocytes must enter the medulla and efficiently scan APCs therein to encounter the full array of self-antigens that induce central tolerance. Chemokine receptors play a critical role in promoting medullary entry and rapid motility of post-positive selection thymocytes. We found that the chemokine receptor CCR8 is expressed by post-positive selection CD4+ single positive (SP) thymocytes in mice, while the corresponding chemokine ligands are expressed by medullary APCs, and thus hypothesized that CCR8 would promote thymocyte medullary entry and/or rapid motility to induce negative selection. However, despite a subtle decline in thymocyte medullary accumulation and the presence of autoantibodies in aged CCR8-deficient mice, CCR8 was not required for thymocyte differentiation, rapid motility, or negative selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiran M. Thyagarajan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jessica N. Lancaster
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sergio A. Lira
- Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Lauren I. R. Ehrlich
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
- Livestrong Cancer Institutes, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
About two decades ago, cloning of the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene materialized one of the most important actors on the scene of self-tolerance. Thymic transcription of genes encoding tissue-specific antigens (ts-ags) is activated by AIRE protein and embodies the essence of thymic self-representation. Pathogenic AIRE variants cause the autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1, which is a rare and complex disease that is gaining attention in research on autoimmunity. The animal models of disease, although not identically reproducing the human picture, supply fundamental information on mechanisms and extent of AIRE action: thanks to its multidomain structure, AIRE localizes to chromatin enclosing the target genes, binds to histones, and offers an anchorage to multimolecular complexes involved in initiation and post-initiation events of gene transcription. In addition, AIRE enhances mRNA diversity by favoring alternative mRNA splicing. Once synthesized, ts-ags are presented to, and cause deletion of the self-reactive thymocyte clones. However, AIRE function is not restricted to the activation of gene transcription. AIRE would control presentation and transfer of self-antigens for thymic cellular interplay: such mechanism is aimed at increasing the likelihood of engagement of the thymocytes that carry the corresponding T-cell receptors. Another fundamental role of AIRE in promoting self-tolerance is related to the development of thymocyte anergy, as thymic self-representation shapes at the same time the repertoire of regulatory T cells. Finally, AIRE seems to replicate its action in the secondary lymphoid organs, albeit the cell lineage detaining such property has not been fully characterized. Delineation of AIRE functions adds interesting data to the knowledge of the mechanisms of self-tolerance and introduces exciting perspectives of therapeutic interventions against the related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Perniola
- Department of Pediatrics, Neonatal Intensive Care, Vito Fazzi Regional Hospital, Lecce, Italy
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46
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The molecular basis of immune regulation in autoimmunity. Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:43-67. [PMID: 29305419 DOI: 10.1042/cs20171154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases can be triggered and modulated by various molecular and cellular characteristics. The mechanisms of autoimmunity and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases have been investigated for several decades. It is well accepted that autoimmunity is caused by dysregulated/dysfunctional immune susceptible genes and environmental factors. There are multiple physiological mechanisms that regulate and control self-reactivity, but which can also lead to tolerance breakdown when in defect. The majority of autoreactive T or B cells are eliminated during the development of central tolerance by negative selection. Regulatory cells such as Tregs (regulatory T) and MSCs (mesenchymal stem cells), and molecules such as CTLA-4 (cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated antigen 4) and IL (interleukin) 10 (IL-10), help to eliminate autoreactive cells that escaped to the periphery in order to prevent development of autoimmunity. Knowledge of the molecular basis of immune regulation is needed to further our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of loss of tolerance in autoimmune diseases and pave the way for the development of more effective, specific, and safer therapeutic interventions.
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Eriksson D, Dalin F, Eriksson GN, Landegren N, Bianchi M, Hallgren Å, Dahlqvist P, Wahlberg J, Ekwall O, Winqvist O, Catrina SB, Rönnelid J, Hulting AL, Lindblad-Toh K, Alimohammadi M, Husebye ES, Knappskog PM, Rosengren Pielberg G, Bensing S, Kämpe O. Cytokine Autoantibody Screening in the Swedish Addison Registry Identifies Patients With Undiagnosed APS1. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:179-186. [PMID: 29069385 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-01957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1 (APS1) is a monogenic disorder that features autoimmune Addison disease as a major component. Although APS1 accounts for only a small fraction of all patients with Addison disease, early identification of these individuals is vital to prevent the potentially lethal complications of APS1. OBJECTIVE To determine whether available serological and genetic markers are valuable screening tools for the identification of APS1 among patients diagnosed with Addison disease. DESIGN We systematically screened 677 patients with Addison disease enrolled in the Swedish Addison Registry for autoantibodies against interleukin-22 and interferon-α4. Autoantibody-positive patients were investigated for clinical manifestations of APS1, additional APS1-specific autoantibodies, and DNA sequence and copy number variations of AIRE. RESULTS In total, 17 patients (2.5%) displayed autoantibodies against interleukin-22 and/or interferon-α4, of which nine were known APS1 cases. Four patients previously undiagnosed with APS1 fulfilled clinical, genetic, and serological criteria. Hence, we identified four patients with undiagnosed APS1 with this screening procedure. CONCLUSION We propose that patients with Addison disease should be routinely screened for cytokine autoantibodies. Clinical or serological support for APS1 should warrant DNA sequencing and copy number analysis of AIRE to enable early diagnosis and prevention of lethal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Eriksson
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frida Dalin
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Nils Landegren
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Matteo Bianchi
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åsa Hallgren
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Dahlqvist
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jeanette Wahlberg
- Department of Endocrinology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Olov Ekwall
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ola Winqvist
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sergiu-Bogdan Catrina
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Rönnelid
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Anna-Lena Hulting
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Lindblad-Toh
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | - Eystein S Husebye
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per Morten Knappskog
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Center for Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Gerli Rosengren Pielberg
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olle Kämpe
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, Bergen, Norway
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Nishijima H, Kajimoto T, Matsuoka Y, Mouri Y, Morimoto J, Matsumoto M, Kawano H, Nishioka Y, Uehara H, Izumi K, Tsuneyama K, Okazaki IM, Okazaki T, Hosomichi K, Shiraki A, Shibutani M, Mitsumori K, Matsumoto M. Paradoxical development of polymyositis-like autoimmunity through augmented expression of autoimmune regulator (AIRE). J Autoimmun 2018; 86:75-92. [PMID: 28931462 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2017.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmunity is prevented by the function of the autoimmune regulator [AIRE (Aire in mice)], which promotes the expression of a wide variety of tissue-restricted antigens (TRAs) from medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) and from a subset of peripheral antigen-presenting cells (APCs). We examined the effect of additive expression of human AIRE (huAIRE) in a model of autoimmune diabetes in NOD mice. Unexpectedly, we observed that mice expressing augmented AIRE/Aire developed muscle-specific autoimmunity associated with incomplete maturation of mTECs together with impaired expression of Aire-dependent TRAs. This led to failure of deletion of autoreactive T cells together with dramatically reduced production of regulatory T cells in the thymus. In peripheral APCs, expression of costimulatory molecules was augmented. We suggest that levels of Aire expression need to be tightly controlled for maintenance of immunological tolerance. Our results also highlight the importance of coordinated action between central tolerance and peripheral tolerance under the common control of Aire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Nishijima
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Enzyme Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kajimoto
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Enzyme Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Matsuoka
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Enzyme Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Mouri
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Enzyme Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Junko Morimoto
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Enzyme Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Minoru Matsumoto
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Enzyme Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; Department of Molecular and Environmental Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kawano
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Enzyme Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Nishioka
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Hisanori Uehara
- Department of Molecular and Environmental Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Keisuke Izumi
- Department of Molecular and Environmental Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Koichi Tsuneyama
- Department of Molecular and Environmental Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Il-Mi Okazaki
- Division of Immune Regulation, Institute for Genome Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Taku Okazaki
- Division of Immune Regulation, Institute for Genome Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Hosomichi
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Ishikawa 920-0934, Japan
| | - Ayako Shiraki
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Makoto Shibutani
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Kunitoshi Mitsumori
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Matsumoto
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Enzyme Research, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; AMED-CREST, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan.
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49
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Proekt I, Miller CN, Lionakis MS, Anderson MS. Insights into immune tolerance from AIRE deficiency. Curr Opin Immunol 2017; 49:71-78. [PMID: 29065385 PMCID: PMC5705335 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2017.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
AIRE is a well-established master regulator of central tolerance. It plays an essential role in driving expression of tissue-specific antigens in the thymus and shaping the development of positively selected T-cells. Humans and mice with compromised or absent AIRE function have markedly variable phenotypes that include a range of autoimmune manifestations. Recent evidence suggests that this variability stems from cooperation of autoimmune susceptibilities involving both central and peripheral tolerance checkpoints. Here we discuss the broadening understanding of the factors that influence Aire expression, modify AIRE function, and the impact and intersection of AIRE with peripheral immunity. This rapidly expanding body of knowledge will force a reexamination of the definition and clinical management of APS-1 patients as well as provide a foundation for the development of immunomodulatory strategies targeting central tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Proekt
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Corey N Miller
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology & Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases (NIAID), NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Mark S Anderson
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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50
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Wang L, Winnewisser J, Federle C, Jessberger G, Nave KA, Werner HB, Kyewski B, Klein L, Hinterberger M. Epitope-Specific Tolerance Modes Differentially Specify Susceptibility to Proteolipid Protein-Induced Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1511. [PMID: 29170668 PMCID: PMC5684123 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunization with myelin components can elicit experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). EAE susceptibility varies between mouse strains, depending on the antigen employed. BL/6 mice are largely resistant to EAE induction with proteolipid protein (PLP), probably a reflection of antigen-specific tolerance. However, the extent and mechanism(s) of tolerance to PLP remain unclear. Here, we identified three PLP epitopes in PLP-deficient BL/6 mice. PLP-sufficient mice did not respond against two of these, whereas tolerance was “leaky” for an epitope with weak predicted MHCII binding, and only this epitope was encephalitogenic. In TCR transgenic mice, the “EAE-susceptibility-associated” epitope was “ignored” by specific CD4 T cells, whereas the “resistance-associated” epitope induced clonal deletion and Treg induction in the thymus. Central tolerance was autoimmune regulator dependent and required expression and presentation of PLP by thymic epithelial cells (TECs). TEC-specific ablation of PLP revealed that peripheral tolerance, mediated by dendritic cells through recessive tolerance mechanisms (deletion and anergy), could largely compensate for a lack of central tolerance. However, adoptive EAE was exacerbated in mice lacking PLP in TECs, pointing toward a non-redundant role of the thymus in dominant tolerance to PLP. Our findings reveal multiple layers of tolerance to a central nervous system autoantigen that vary among epitopes and thereby specify disease susceptibility. Understanding how different modalities of tolerance apply to distinct T cell epitopes of a target in autoimmunity has implications for antigen-specific strategies to therapeutically interfere with unwanted immune reactions against self.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Institute for Immunology, Biomedical Center (BMC) Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Winnewisser
- Institute for Immunology, Biomedical Center (BMC) Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Christine Federle
- Institute for Immunology, Biomedical Center (BMC) Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Gregor Jessberger
- Institute for Immunology, Biomedical Center (BMC) Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Klaus-Armin Nave
- Department of Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Hauke B Werner
- Department of Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Bruno Kyewski
- Division of Developmental Immunology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ludger Klein
- Institute for Immunology, Biomedical Center (BMC) Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Hinterberger
- Institute for Immunology, Biomedical Center (BMC) Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
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