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Umhoefer JM, Arce MM, Dajani R, Belk JA, Mowery CT, Nguyen V, Gowen BG, Simeonov DR, Curie GL, Corn JE, Chang HY, Marson A. Deciphering regulation of FOXP3 expression in human conventional T cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.30.610436. [PMID: 39282425 PMCID: PMC11398386 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.30.610436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
FOXP3 is a lineage-defining transcription factor that controls differentiation and maintenance of suppressive function of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Foxp3 is exclusively expressed in Tregs in mice. However, in humans, FOXP3 is not only constitutively expressed in Tregs; it is also transiently expressed in stimulated CD4+CD25- conventional T cells (Tconvs)1-3. Mechanisms governing the expression of FOXP3 in human Tconvs are not understood. Here, we performed CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) screens using a 15K-member gRNA library tiling 39 kb downstream of the FOXP3 transcriptional start site (TSS) to 85 kb upstream of the TSS in Treg and Tconvs. The FOXP3 promoter and conserved non-coding sequences (CNS0, CNS1, CNS2 and CNS3), characterized as enhancer elements in murine Tregs, were required for maintenance of FOXP3 in human Tregs. In contrast, FOXP3 in human Tconvs depended on regulation at CNS0 and a novel Tconv-specific noncoding sequence (TcNS+) located upstream of CNS0. Arrayed validations of these sites identified an additional repressive cis-element overlapping with the PPP1R3F promoter (TcNS-). Pooled CRISPR knockouts revealed multiple transcription factors required for proper expression of FOXP3 in Tconvs, including GATA3, STAT5, IRF4, ETS1 and DNA methylation-associated regulators DNMT1 and MBD2. Analysis of ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq paired with knock-out (KO) of GATA3, STAT5, IRF4, and ETS1 revealed regulation of CNS0 and TcNS+ accessibility. Collectively, this work identified Treg-shared and Tconv-specific cis-elements and the trans-factors that interact with them, building a network of regulators controlling FOXP3 expression in human Tconvs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Umhoefer
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Biomedical Sciences graduate program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Maya M Arce
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Biomedical Sciences graduate program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Rama Dajani
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Julia A Belk
- Center for Personal Dynamic Regulomes, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Cody T Mowery
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Biomedical Sciences graduate program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vinh Nguyen
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF CoLabs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin G Gowen
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Dimitre R Simeonov
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Biomedical Sciences graduate program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gemma L Curie
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jacob E Corn
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Howard Y Chang
- Center for Personal Dynamic Regulomes, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alexander Marson
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Shouse AN, LaPorte KM, Malek TR. Interleukin-2 signaling in the regulation of T cell biology in autoimmunity and cancer. Immunity 2024; 57:414-428. [PMID: 38479359 PMCID: PMC11126276 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.02.001] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a critical cytokine for T cell peripheral tolerance and immunity. Here, we review how IL-2 interaction with the high-affinity IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) supports the development and homeostasis of regulatory T cells and contributes to the differentiation of helper, cytotoxic, and memory T cells. A critical element for each T cell population is the expression of CD25 (Il2rα), which heightens the receptor affinity for IL-2. Signaling through the high-affinity IL-2R also reinvigorates CD8+ exhausted T (Tex) cells in response to checkpoint blockade. We consider the molecular underpinnings reflecting how IL-2R signaling impacts these various T cell subsets and the implications for enhancing IL-2-dependent immunotherapy of autoimmunity, other inflammatory disorders, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Acacia N Shouse
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Kathryn M LaPorte
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Thomas R Malek
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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Jiang T, Zhang HW, Wen YP, Yin YS, Yang LH, Yang J, Lan T, Tang CW, Yu JK, Tai WL, Yang JH. 5-Aza-2-deoxycytidine alleviates the progression of primary biliary cholangitis by suppressing the FoxP3 methylation and promoting the Treg/Th17 balance. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 96:107820. [PMID: 34162167 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107820] [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: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a common autoimmune liver disease manifested by the infiltration of CD4+ T cells, and the subsequent targeted injury of biliary epithelial cells (BECs). As important components of CD4 subsets, the Treg/Th17 axis maintains an immunological balance between self-tolerance and inflammation in the liver microenvironment. However, the role and regulatory mechanism of the Treg/Th17 axis in PBC remain unclear. In this study, we examined the Treg/Th17 axis in PBC patients and found that the Treg/Th17 axis was imbalanced in PBC at both the transcriptional and cellular levels, with Treg being a weak candidate, which correlates with the PBC progression. This imbalanced Treg/Th17 axis was likely to be affected by the FoxP3 hypermethylation, which was related to the increase of DNA methyltransferase. Furthermore, the effect of 5-Aza-2-deoxycytidine (DAC)-mediated FoxP3 demethylation on PBC mice was investigated. We verified that DAC significantly suppressed the FoxP3 methylation and rebuilt the Treg/Th17 balance, resulting in the alleviation of liver lesions and inflammation. Taken together, our data indicate that DAC plays a positive role in alleviating the progression of PBC through the inhibition of DNA methylation of FoxP3 to rebuild the balanced Treg/Th17 axis. DAC could be considered as a potential candidate for the development of new anti-inflammation strategies in the treatment of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Jiang
- Digestive Diseases Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Hong-Wei Zhang
- The Central Laboratory, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Yan-Ping Wen
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yue-Shan Yin
- Digestive Diseases Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Li-Hong Yang
- Digestive Diseases Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Digestive Diseases Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Tian Lan
- Digestive Diseases Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng-Wei Tang
- Digestive Diseases Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian-Kun Yu
- The Central Laboratory, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming, China.
| | - Wen-Lin Tai
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.
| | - Jin-Hui Yang
- Digestive Diseases Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.
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4
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Liu Y, Jarjour W, Olsen N, Zheng SG. Traitor or warrior-Treg cells sneaking into the lesions of psoriatic arthritis. Clin Immunol 2020; 215:108425. [PMID: 32305454 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2020.108425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells have been recognized to maintain immune tolerance, which contributes to prevention of autoimmune diseases. However, recent evidence has demonstrated different characteristics of these cells between those that are in circulation compared to those in various local tissues. In addition, the ability of Treg cells to have plasticity in certain disease settings and in inflammatory lesions has been increasingly recognized. Herein we summarize updated knowledge of Treg biology and discuss the current understanding of tissue-resident Treg cells in psoriatic arthritis (PsA), attempting to provide new insights into precise role of Treg cells in the immune response and as a possible therapeutic intervention in patients with PsA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510620, China
| | - Wael Jarjour
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus 43210, USA
| | - Nancy Olsen
- Department of Medicine, The Penn State Hershey College of Medicine, Hershey 17031, USA
| | - Song Guo Zheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus 43210, USA.
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Jia X, Yang W, Zhou X, Han L, Shi J. Influence of demethylation on regulatory T and Th17 cells in myelodysplastic syndrome. Oncol Lett 2019; 19:442-448. [PMID: 31897157 PMCID: PMC6924080 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.11114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) represents a heterogeneous hematopoietic disorder in which mature blood cells are derived from an abnormal multipotent progenitor cell. The current therapy for MDS involves repeated cycles of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors, particularly the demethylation drug 5-azacytidine (5-azaC) which has been shown to increase the survival of patients with high-risk MDS. The mechanisms behind the therapeutic effects of 5-azaC are not yet clear. In this study the effect of 5-azaC on the development of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T-helper 17 (Th17) cells was investigated. The numbers of CD4+ T-cell subsets in 30 patients with intermediate-2/high-risk MDS were serially assessed at diagnosis and following 5-azaC treatment. The number of FoxP3+ Tregs was significantly higher after 3 months of therapy. However, there was no statistical difference in the number of Th17 cells following treatment. In vitro, 5-azaC enhanced the overall proportion of Tregs, but not Th17, in CD4+ T cells from patients with MDS. Addition of 5-azaC reduced the proliferative capacity of Tregs, suggesting that the increase in Tregs was due to conversion of conventional CD25− cells, rather than proliferation of CD25+FoxP3+ cells. The FoxP3 expression in 5-azaC-treated T effectors was also increased. Interestingly, while Tbet and RORγT mRNA transcription had no obvious changes, due to the demethylation of the FoxP3 promoter, these findings are important in associating the induction of DNA hypomethylation and the clinical response to 5-azaC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Jia
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200120, P.R. China
| | - Wenzhong Yang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200120, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohui Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200120, P.R. China
| | - Lu Han
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200120, P.R. China
| | - Jumei Shi
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University Cancer Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, P.R. China
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6
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Khosravi M, Bidmeshkipour A, Cohen JL, Moravej A, Hojjat-Assari S, Naserian S, Karimi MH. Induction of CD4 +CD25 +FOXP3 + regulatory T cells by mesenchymal stem cells is associated with modulation of ubiquitination factors and TSDR demethylation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:273. [PMID: 30359308 PMCID: PMC6203284 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-0991-1] [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: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known for their ability to induce the conversion of conventional T cells (Tconvs) into induced regulatory T cells (iTregs) in specific inflammatory contexts. Stable Foxp3 expression plays a major role in the phenotypic and functional stability of iTregs. However, how MSCs induce stable Foxp3 expression remains unknown. Methods We first investigated the role of cell–cell contact and cytokine secretion by bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) on the induction, stability, and suppressive functions of Tregs under various experimental conditions that lead to Foxp3 generation by flow cytometry and ELISA respectively. Second, we studied the effect of MSCs on TRAF6, GRAIL, USP7, STUB1, and UBC13 mRNA expression in CD4+ T cells in correlation with the suppressive function of iTregs by real-time PCR; also, we investigated Foxp3 Treg-specific demethylated region (TSDR) methylation in correlation with Foxp3 stability by the high-resolution melting technique. Third, we studied the effect of ex-vivo-expanded BM-MSCs on the induction of transplant tolerance in a model of fully allogeneic skin transplantation. We further analyzed the cytokine secretion patterns in grafted mice as well as the mRNA expression of ubiquitination genes in CD4+ T cells collected from the spleens of protected mice. Results We found that in-vitro MSC-induced Tregs express high mRNA levels of ubiquitination genes such as TRAF6, GRAIL, and USP7 and low levels of STUB1. Moreover, they have enhanced TSDR demethylation. Infusion of MSCs in a murine model of allogeneic skin transplantation prolonged allograft survival. When CD4+ T cells were harvested from the spleens of grafted mice, we observed that mRNA expression of the Foxp3 gene was elevated. Furthermore, Foxp3 mRNA expression was associated with increased TRAF6, GRAIL, UBC13, and USP7 and decreased STUB1 mRNA levels compared with the levels observed in vitro. Conclusions Our data suggest a possible ubiquitination mechanism by which MSCs convert Tconvs to suppressive and stable iTregs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13287-018-0991-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Khosravi
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.,Inserm, U955, Equipe 21, F-94000, Créteil, France
| | - Ali Bidmeshkipour
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - José L Cohen
- Université Paris-Est, UMR_S955, UPEC, F-94000, Créteil, France.,Inserm, U955, Equipe 21, F-94000, Créteil, France.,UPEC, APHP, Inserm, CIC Biothérapie, Hôpital Henri Mondor, 94010, Créteil, France
| | - Ali Moravej
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Centre, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Suzzan Hojjat-Assari
- Institut Français de Recherche et d'Enseignement Supérieur à l'International (IFRES-INT), Paris, France
| | - Sina Naserian
- Université Paris-Est, UMR_S955, UPEC, F-94000, Créteil, France.,Inserm, U955, Equipe 21, F-94000, Créteil, France.,Inserm, U1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, 94807, Villejuif, France.,SivanCell, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Alborz, Iran
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Adoptive Transfers of CD4 +CD25 + Tregs Raise Foxp3 Expression and Alleviate Mouse Enteritis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:9064073. [PMID: 30364052 PMCID: PMC6186320 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9064073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs control the immune response and maintain immune homeostasis. This study examined whether Tregs can affect mouse enteritis and the Foxp3 (Forkhead transcription factor) transcriptional pathway. Mouse CD4+CD25+ Treg cells were labelled using CFSE (5,6-carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester) and transferred to enteritis model mice. The mice were randomly divided into an enteritis group, a Treg-infusion group, a Treg-inhibiting group, and a control group. Histopathology, ELISA, flow cytometry, western blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were performed. Our results demonstrated that CD4+CD25+ Tregs were successfully transferred. The disease activity index (DAI) scores in the Tregs-infusion group were lower than those of the enteritis and Tregs-inhibiting groups. The number of goblet cells and inflammatory cells was reduced, and the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, NO, and PGE2 were significantly decreased in the Tregs-infusion group compared to those in the enteritis group (p<0.05). The number of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs and CD4+IL-17A+ Th17 cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes differed significantly from the enteritis and Tregs-inhibiting groups (p<0.05). There were more Foxp3+ Tregs and Smad3 and NFAT2 infiltrated into the duodenum after adoptive transfer of CD4+CD25+ Tregs, which was a significant difference relative to the enteritis group (p<0.05). This study demonstrated that adoptive transfer of CD4+CD25+ Tregs can decrease mouse enteritis. Foxp3 expression may be improved through the Smad3 and NFAT2 signalling pathways.
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8
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STAT3-mediated epigenetic silencing of FOXP3 in LADA T cells is regulated through HDAC5 and DNMT1. Clin Immunol 2018; 191:116-125. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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9
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Freudenberg K, Lindner N, Dohnke S, Garbe AI, Schallenberg S, Kretschmer K. Critical Role of TGF-β and IL-2 Receptor Signaling in Foxp3 Induction by an Inhibitor of DNA Methylation. Front Immunol 2018; 9:125. [PMID: 29456534 PMCID: PMC5801288 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Under physiological conditions, CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cells expressing the transcription factor Foxp3 are generated in the thymus [thymus-derived Foxp3+ Treg (tTregs) cells] and extrathymically at peripheral sites [peripherally induced Foxp3+ Treg (pTreg) cell], and both developmental subsets play non-redundant roles in maintaining self-tolerance throughout life. In addition, a variety of experimental in vitro and in vivo modalities can extrathymically elicit a Foxp3+ Treg cell phenotype in peripheral CD4+Foxp3− T cells, which has attracted much interest as an approach toward cell-based therapy in clinical settings of undesired immune responses. A particularly notable example is the in vitro induction of Foxp3 expression and Treg cell activity (iTreg cells) in initially naive CD4+Foxp3− T cells through T cell receptor (TCR) and IL-2R ligation, in the presence of exogenous TGF-β. Clinical application of Foxp3+ iTreg cells has been hampered by the fact that TGF-β-driven Foxp3 induction is not sufficient to fully recapitulate the epigenetic and transcriptional signature of in vivo induced Foxp3+ tTreg and pTreg cells, which includes the failure to imprint iTreg cells with stable Foxp3 expression. This hurdle can be potentially overcome by pharmacological interference with DNA methyltransferase activity and CpG methylation [e.g., by the cytosine nucleoside analog 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-aza-dC)] to stabilize TGF-β-induced Foxp3 expression and to promote a Foxp3+ iTreg cell phenotype even in the absence of added TGF-β. However, the molecular mechanisms of 5-aza-dC-mediated Foxp3+ iTreg cell generation have remained incompletely understood. Here, we show that in the absence of exogenously added TGF-β and IL-2, efficient 5-aza-dC-mediated Foxp3+ iTreg cell generation from TCR-stimulated CD4+Foxp3− T cells is critically dependent on TGF-βR and IL-2R signaling and that this process is driven by TGF-β and IL-2, which could either be FCS derived or produced by T cells on TCR stimulation. Overall, these findings contribute to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the process of Foxp3 induction and may provide a rational basis for generating phenotypically and functionally stable iTreg cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Freudenberg
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology/Immune Regulation, DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Nadja Lindner
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology/Immune Regulation, DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sebastian Dohnke
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology/Immune Regulation, DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Osteoimmunology, DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Annette I Garbe
- Osteoimmunology, DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sonja Schallenberg
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology/Immune Regulation, DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Karsten Kretschmer
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology/Immune Regulation, DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Paul Langerhans Institute Dresden (PLID) of the Helmholtz Zentrum München at the University Hospital and Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus of TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany
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10
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Wiesinger M, Stoica D, Roessner S, Lorenz C, Fischer A, Atreya R, Neufert CF, Atreya I, Scheffold A, Schuler-Thurner B, Neurath MF, Schuler G, Voskens CJ. Good Manufacturing Practice-Compliant Production and Lot-Release of Ex Vivo Expanded Regulatory T Cells As Basis for Treatment of Patients with Autoimmune and Inflammatory Disorders. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1371. [PMID: 29123521 PMCID: PMC5662555 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the exploration of regulatory T cell (Treg)-based cellular therapy has become an attractive strategy to ameliorate inflammation and autoimmunity in various clinical settings. The main obstacle to the clinical application of Treg in human is their low number circulating in peripheral blood. Therefore, ex vivo expansion is inevitable. Moreover, isolation of Treg bears the risk of concurrent isolation of unwanted effector cells, which may trigger or deteriorate inflammation upon adoptive Treg transfer. Here, we present a protocol for the GMP-compliant production, lot-release and validation of ex vivo expanded Tregs for treatment of patients with autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. In the presented production protocol, large numbers of Treg, previously enriched from a leukapheresis product by using the CliniMACS® system, are ex vivo expanded in the presence of anti-CD3/anti-CD28 expander beads, exogenous IL-2 and rapamycin during 21 days. The expanded Treg drug product passed predefined lot-release criteria. These criteria include (i) sterility testing, (ii) assessment of Treg phenotype, (iii) assessment of non-Treg cellular impurities, (iv) confirmation of successful anti-CD3/anti-CD28 expander bead removal after expansion, and (v) confirmation of the biological function of the Treg product. Furthermore, the Treg drug product was shown to retain its stability and suppressive function for at least 1 year after freezing and thawing. Also, dilution of the Treg drug product in 0.9% physiological saline did not affect Treg phenotype and Treg function for up to 90 min. These data indicate that these cells are ready to use in a clinical setting in which a cell infusion time of up to 90 min can be expected. The presented production process has recently undergone on site GMP-conform evaluation and received GMP certification from the Bavarian authorities in Germany. This protocol can now be used for Treg-based therapy of various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Wiesinger
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Diane Stoica
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Susanne Roessner
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Carmen Lorenz
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anika Fischer
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Raja Atreya
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Clemens F Neufert
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Imke Atreya
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexander Scheffold
- Department of Cellular Immunology, Clinic for Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Markus F Neurath
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gerold Schuler
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Caroline J Voskens
- Department of Dermatology, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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11
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Characterization and Expansion of Autologous GMP-ready Regulatory T Cells for TREG-based Cell Therapy in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2017; 23:1348-1359. [PMID: 28708802 DOI: 10.1097/mib.0000000000001192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A local imbalance between regulatory (Treg) and effector T cells is believed to play a major role in gut-specific inflammation, including ulcerative colitis (UC). Restoration of this balance through an adoptive Treg transfer is an attractive new treatment approach in patients who are refractory to current standard therapies. It was our goal to develop a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)-conform protocol for expansion of UC Treg cells as a rational backbone for future studies on Treg therapy in UC. METHODS CD25 blood T cells derived from patients with UC were ex vivo expanded in the presence of IL-2, rapamycin, and anti-CD3/anti-CD28 expander beads using a GMP-conform protocol. Cells were subsequently assessed for stability and function. RESULTS Patient-derived ex vivo rapamycin-expanded GMP-ready CD25 cells were polyclonal, hypomethylated at intron 1 of the FoxP3 locus, and suppressive in carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester-dilution assays against autologous peripheral blood-derived and allogeneic colon-derived responder cells. Function was mediated by soluble factors, including toxic granules. In addition to CD4 T cells, suppressive hypermethylated CD8 T-cell subsets were also induced during the expansion process. CONCLUSIONS Patient-derived rapamycin-expanded CD25 cells are stable and functional, and as such, ready to serve in a phase I dose-escalation safety study in UC.
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12
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Abstract
Since their ‘re-discovery’ more than two decades ago, FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) have been an important subject of investigation in the biomedical field and our understanding of the mechanisms that drive their phenotype and function in health and disease has advanced tremendously. During the past few years it has become clear that Tregs are not a terminally differentiated population but show some degree of plasticity, and can, under specific environmental conditions, acquire the phenotype of effector T cells. In particular, recent works have highlighted the acquisition of a Th1-like phenotype by Tregs in several pathological environments. In this review we give an update on the concept of Treg plasticity and the advances in defining the molecular mechanisms that underlie the generation of Th1-like Tregs during an immune response and in different disease settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Kitz
- Departments of Neurology and Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Margarita Dominguez-Villar
- Department of Neurology, Human and Translational Immunology Program, Yale School of Medicine, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA.
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13
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Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells are a distinct T-cell lineage characterized by sustained Foxp3 expression and potent suppressor function, but the upstream dominant factors that preserve Treg lineage-specific features are mostly unknown. Here, we show that Lkb1 maintains Treg cell lineage identity by stabilizing Foxp3 expression and enforcing suppressor function. Upon T-cell receptor (TCR) stimulation Lkb1 protein expression is upregulated in Treg cells but not in conventional T cells. Mice with Treg cell-specific deletion of Lkb1 develop a fatal early-onset autoimmune disease, with no Foxp3 expression in most Treg cells. Lkb1 stabilizes Foxp3 expression by preventing STAT4-mediated methylation of the conserved noncoding sequence 2 (CNS2) in the Foxp3 locus. Independent of maintaining Foxp3 expression, Lkb1 programs the expression of a wide spectrum of immunosuppressive genes, through mechanisms involving the augmentation of TGF-β signalling. These findings identify a critical function of Lkb1 in maintaining Treg cell lineage identity. The protein kinase Lkb1 has been shown to limit conventional T cell activation and pro-inflammatory functions. Here the authors show that Lkb1 also maintains Foxp3 expression and suppressive function in regulatory T (Treg) cells, and that Treg-specific Lkb1-deficient mice develop fatal autoimmune disease.
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14
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Luo A, Leach ST, Barres R, Hesson LB, Grimm MC, Simar D. The Microbiota and Epigenetic Regulation of T Helper 17/Regulatory T Cells: In Search of a Balanced Immune System. Front Immunol 2017; 8:417. [PMID: 28443096 PMCID: PMC5385369 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune cells not only affect tissue homeostasis at the site of inflammation but also exert systemic effects contributing to multiple chronic conditions. Recent evidence clearly supports an altered T helper 17/regulatory T cell (Th17/Treg) balance leading to the development and progression of inflammatory diseases that not only affect the gastrointestinal tract but also have whole-body manifestations, including insulin resistance. Epigenetic mechanisms are amenable to both environmental and circulating factors and contribute to determining the T cell landscape. The recently identified participation of the gut microbiota in the remodeling of the epigenome of immune cells has triggered a paradigm shift in our understanding of the etiology of various inflammatory diseases and opened new paths toward therapeutic strategies. In this review, we provide an overview of the contribution of the Th17/Treg balance in the development and progression of inflammatory bowel diseases and metabolic diseases. We discuss the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in the regulation of T cell function in the particular context of dysbiosis. Finally, we examine the potential for nutritional interventions affecting the gut microbiota to reshape the T cell epigenome and address the inflammatory component of various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Luo
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Steven T Leach
- School of Women and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Romain Barres
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Luke B Hesson
- Adult Cancer Program, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael C Grimm
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Simar
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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15
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Lu CH, Wu CJ, Chan CC, Nguyen DT, Lin KR, Lin SJ, Chen LC, Yen JJY, Kuo ML. DNA Methyltransferase Inhibitor Promotes Human CD4 +CD25 hFOXP3 + Regulatory T Lymphocyte Induction under Suboptimal TCR Stimulation. Front Immunol 2016; 7:488. [PMID: 27877174 PMCID: PMC5099256 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The “master transcription factor” FOXP3 regulates the differentiation, homeostasis, and suppressor function of CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cells, which are critical in maintaining immune tolerance. Epigenetic regulation of FOXP3 expression has been demonstrated to be important to Treg cell development, but the induction of human Treg cells through epigenetic modification has not been clearly described. We report that the combination of the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-azacytidine (5-Aza) and suboptimal T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation promoted CD4+CD25hFOXP3+ T cell induction from human CD4+CD25− T cells. 5-Aza treatment enhanced the expression of Treg cell signature genes, such as CD25, FOXP3, CTLA-4, and GITR, in CD4+CD25h cells. Moreover, 5-Aza-treated CD4+CD25h T cells showed potent suppressive activity in a cell contact-dependent manner and reduced methylation in the Treg-specific demethylated region (TSDR) in the FOXP3 gene. The analysis of cytokine production revealed that CD4+CD25− T cells with 5-Aza treatment produced comparable levels of interferon (IFN)-γ and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, but less IL-10 and more IL-2, when compared to cells without 5-Aza treatment. The increased IL-2 was indispensible to the enhanced FOXP3 expression in 5-Aza-treated CD4+CD25h cells. Finally, 5-Aza-treated CD4+CD25h T cells could be expanded with IL-2 supplementation alone and maintained FOXP3 expression and suppressor function through the expansion. Our findings demonstrate that DNA demethylation can enhance the induction of human Treg cells and promise to solve one of the challenges with using Treg cells in therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Hao Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University , Taoyuan , Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Jang Wu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Cheng-Chi Chan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University , Taoyuan , Taiwan
| | - Duc T Nguyen
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego , La Jolla, CA , USA
| | - Kuo-Ray Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica , Taipei , Taiwan
| | - Syh-Jae Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Taoyuan , Taiwan
| | - Li-Chen Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Taoyuan , Taiwan
| | | | - Ming-Ling Kuo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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16
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Rossetti M, Spreafico R, Saidin S, Chua C, Moshref M, Leong JY, Tan YK, Thumboo J, van Loosdregt J, Albani S. Ex vivo-expanded but not in vitro-induced human regulatory T cells are candidates for cell therapy in autoimmune diseases thanks to stable demethylation of the FOXP3 regulatory T cell-specific demethylated region. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2015; 194:113-24. [PMID: 25452562 PMCID: PMC4383769 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1401145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cell (Treg) therapy is a promising approach for transplant rejection and severe autoimmunity. Unfortunately, clinically meaningful Treg numbers can be obtained only upon in vitro culture. Functional stability of human expanded (e)Tregs and induced (i)Tregs has not been thoroughly addressed for all proposed protocols, hindering clinical translation. We undertook a systematic comparison of eTregs and iTregs to recommend the most suitable for clinical implementation, and then tested their effectiveness and feasibility in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Regardless of the treatment, iTregs acquired suppressive function and FOXP3 expression, but lost them upon secondary restimulation in the absence of differentiation factors, which mimics in vivo reactivation. In contrast, eTregs expanded in the presence of rapamycin (rapa) retained their regulatory properties and FOXP3 demethylation upon restimulation with no stabilizing agent. FOXP3 demethylation predicted Treg functional stability upon secondary TCR engagement. Rapa eTregs suppressed conventional T cell proliferation via both surface (CTLA-4) and secreted (IL-10, TGF-β, and IL-35) mediators, similarly to ex vivo Tregs. Importantly, Treg expansion with rapa from RA patients produced functionally stable Tregs with yields comparable to healthy donors. Moreover, rapa eTregs from RA patients were resistant to suppression reversal by the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α, and were more efficient in suppressing synovial conventional T cell proliferation compared with their ex vivo counterparts, suggesting that rapa improves both Treg function and stability. In conclusion, our data indicate Treg expansion with rapa as the protocol of choice for clinical application in rheumatological settings, with assessment of FOXP3 demethylation as a necessary quality control step.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Rossetti
- Translational Research Unit, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037; SingHealth Translational Immunology and Inflammation Centre, SingHealth, 169856 Singapore;
| | - Roberto Spreafico
- Translational Research Unit, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037; SingHealth Translational Immunology and Inflammation Centre, SingHealth, 169856 Singapore
| | - Suzan Saidin
- SingHealth Translational Immunology and Inflammation Centre, SingHealth, 169856 Singapore
| | - Camillus Chua
- SingHealth Translational Immunology and Inflammation Centre, SingHealth, 169856 Singapore
| | - Maryam Moshref
- Translational Research Unit, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Jing Yao Leong
- SingHealth Translational Immunology and Inflammation Centre, SingHealth, 169856 Singapore
| | - York Kiat Tan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, 169608 Singapore; Duke-National University of Singapore Graduate Medical School, 169857 Singapore; and Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597 Singapore
| | - Julian Thumboo
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, 169608 Singapore; Duke-National University of Singapore Graduate Medical School, 169857 Singapore; and Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597 Singapore
| | - Jorg van Loosdregt
- Translational Research Unit, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Salvatore Albani
- Translational Research Unit, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037; SingHealth Translational Immunology and Inflammation Centre, SingHealth, 169856 Singapore; Duke-National University of Singapore Graduate Medical School, 169857 Singapore; and
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17
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Barbi J, Pardoll D, Pan F. Treg functional stability and its responsiveness to the microenvironment. Immunol Rev 2014; 259:115-39. [PMID: 24712463 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) prevent autoimmunity and tissue damage resulting from excessive or unnecessary immune activation through their suppressive function. While their importance for proper immune control is undeniable, the stability of the Treg lineage has recently become a controversial topic. Many reports have shown dramatic loss of the signature Treg transcription factor Forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3) and Treg function under various inflammatory conditions. Other recent studies demonstrate that most Tregs are extremely resilient in their expression of Foxp3 and the retention of suppressive function. While this debate is unlikely to be settled in the immediate future, improved understanding of the considerable heterogeneity within the Foxp3(+) Treg population and how Treg subsets respond to ranging environmental cues may be keys to reconciliation. In this review, we discuss the diverse mechanisms responsible for the observed stability or instability of Foxp3(+) Treg identity and function. These include transcriptional and epigenetic programs, transcript targeting, and posttranslational modifications that appear responsive to numerous elements of the microenvironment. These mechanisms for Treg functional modulation add to the discussion of Treg stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Barbi
- Department of Oncology, Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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18
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Regulatory T-cell therapy in the induction of transplant tolerance: the issue of subpopulations. Transplantation 2014; 98:370-9. [PMID: 24933458 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000000243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Clinical tolerance induction to permit minimization or cessation of immunosuppressive drugs is one of the key research goals in solid organ transplantation. The use of ex vivo expanded or manipulated immunologic cells, including CD4CD25FOXP3 regulatory T cells (Tregs), to achieve this aim is already a reality, with several trials currently recruiting patients. Tregs are a highly suppressive, nonredundant, population of regulatory cells that prevent the development of autoimmune diseases in mammals. Data from transplanted humans and animal models support the notion that Tregs can mediate both induction and adoptive transfer of transplantation tolerance. However, human Tregs are highly heterogeneous and include subpopulations with the potential to produce the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-17, which has been linked to transplant rejection. Tregs are also small in number in the peripheral circulation, thus they require ex vivo expansion before infusion into man. Selection of the most appropriate Treg population for cell therapy is, therefore, a critical step in ensuring successful clinical outcomes. In this review, we discuss Treg subpopulations, their subdivision based on nonmutually exclusive criteria of origin, expression of immunologic markers and function, availability in the peripheral blood of patients awaiting transplantation, and their suitability for programs of cell-based therapy.
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19
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Piotrowski P, Grobelna MK, Wudarski M, Olesińska M, Jagodziński PP. Genetic variants of DNMT3A and systemic lupus erythematosus susceptibility. Mod Rheumatol 2014; 25:96-9. [PMID: 24716599 DOI: 10.3109/14397595.2014.902296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A significant increase in DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) transcript levels has recently been demonstrated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients as compared to healthy individuals. METHODS Employing high resolution melting curve analysis (HRM) and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis, we assessed the frequency of five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of this gene: rs2289195, rs7590760, rs13401241, rs749131 and rs1550117, situated in different linkage disequilibrium blocks of the DNMT3A gene in two hundred and fifty seven women with SLE and six hundred and twenty five controls. RESULTS The lowest p values of the trend test were observed for the DNMT3A -448A> G (rs1550117) SNP (ptrend = 0.0111). We also found that, in a dominant inheritance model, the DNMT3A -448A> G SNP may protect from SLE development [odds ratio (OR) = 0.494 (0.294-0.830), p = 0.0068, pcorr = 0.034]. Furthermore, we observed that the DNMT3A -448A > G SNP in dominant inheritance models may protect from immunologic manifestations of SLE [OR = 0.1753 (95% CI = 0.04976-0.6176, p = 0.0026, pcorr = 0.0468). CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that the DNMT3A -448A> G SNP might protect from SLE and its immunologic manifestations in a sample from the Polish population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Piotrowski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences , Poznań , Poland
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20
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Danby R, Rocha V. Improving engraftment and immune reconstitution in umbilical cord blood transplantation. Front Immunol 2014; 5:68. [PMID: 24605111 PMCID: PMC3932655 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is an important source of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) for allogeneic transplantation when HLA-matched sibling and unrelated donors (MUD) are unavailable. Although the overall survival results for UCB transplantation are comparable to the results with MUD, UCB transplants are associated with slow engraftment, delayed immune reconstitution, and increased opportunistic infections. While this may be a consequence of the lower cell dose in UCB grafts, it also reflects the relative immaturity of cord blood. Furthermore, limited cell numbers and the non-availability of donor lymphocyte infusions currently prevent the use of post-transplant cellular immunotherapy to boost donor-derived immunity to treat infections, mixed chimerism, and disease relapse. To further develop UCB transplantation, many strategies to enhance engraftment and immune reconstitution are currently under investigation. This review summarizes our current understanding of engraftment and immune recovery following UCB transplantation and why this differs from allogeneic transplants using other sources of HSC. It also provides a comprehensive overview of promising techniques being used to improve myeloid and lymphoid recovery, including expansion, homing, and delivery of UCB HSC; combined use of UCB with third-party donors; isolation and expansion of natural killer cells, pathogen-specific T cells, and regulatory T cells; methods to protect and/or improve thymopoiesis. As many of these strategies are now in clinical trials, it is anticipated that UCB transplantation will continue to advance, further expanding our understanding of UCB biology and HSC transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Danby
- Department of Haematology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust , Oxford , UK ; NHS Blood and Transplant, John Radcliffe Hospital , Oxford , UK ; Eurocord, Hôpital Saint Louis APHP, University Paris VII IUH , Paris , France
| | - Vanderson Rocha
- Department of Haematology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust , Oxford , UK ; NHS Blood and Transplant, John Radcliffe Hospital , Oxford , UK ; Eurocord, Hôpital Saint Louis APHP, University Paris VII IUH , Paris , France
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21
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Abstract
The hypomethylating agent 5-Azacytidine epigenetically modulates various genes, including tumor suppressor genes. For many years, the "new agent", which was first discovered in the 1960s, remained fairly unobtrusive in the rank of salvage treatment options for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). When the significance of epigenetics in tumorigenesis became clear, 5-Azacytidine attracted new attention. Finally, it was the first drug approved for the treatment of all categories of MDS, and its survival benefit over best conventional care was confirmed. Today, in many clinical situations, when aggressive therapies including allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation are not an option, 5-Azacytidine is the first treatment of choice. Preliminary data on combinations of the hypomethylating agent with other new drugs are promising, and innovative strategies involving immune modulation and regenerative tissue repair hold a broad potential for future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia M S Müller
- Division of Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland,
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22
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Delacher M, Schreiber L, Richards DM, Farah C, Feuerer M, Huehn J. Transcriptional control of regulatory T cells. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2014; 381:83-124. [PMID: 24831347 DOI: 10.1007/82_2014_373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) constitute unique T cell lineage that plays a key role for immunological tolerance. Tregs are characterized by the expression of the forkhead box transcription factor Foxp3, which acts as a lineage-specifying factor by determining the unique suppression profile of these immune cells. Here, we summarize the recent progress in understanding how Foxp3 expression itself is epigenetically and transcriptionally controlled, how the Treg-specific signature is achieved and how unique properties of Treg subsets are defined by other transcription factors. Finally, we will discuss recent studies focusing on the molecular targeting of Tregs to utilize the specific properties of this unique cell type in therapeutic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Delacher
- Immune Tolerance, Tumor Immunology Program, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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23
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Genetic polymorphism in FOXP3 gene: imbalance in regulatory T-cell role and development of human diseases. J Genet 2013; 92:163-71. [PMID: 23640423 DOI: 10.1007/s12041-013-0213-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The FOXP3 gene encodes a transcription factor thought to be important for the development and function of regulatory T cells (Treg cells). These cells are involved in the regulation of T cell activation and therefore are essential for normal immune homeostasis. Signals from microenvironment have a profound influence on the maintenance or progression of diseases. Thus, Tregs have an important marker protein, FOXP3, though it does not necessarily confer a Treg phenotype when expressed. FOXP3 polymorphisms that occur with high frequency in the general populations have been studied in common multifactorial human diseases. Dysfunction of FOXP3 gene product could result in lack of Treg cells and subsequently chronically activated CD4+ T cells which express increased levels of several activation markers and cytokines, resulting in some autoimmune diseases. In contrast, high Treg levels have been reported in peripheral blood, lymph nodes, and tumour specimens from patients with different types of cancer. The present study discusses the polymorphisms located in intron, exon and promoter regions of FOXP3 which have already been investigated by many researchers. FOXP3 has received considerable attention in attempts to understand the molecular aspect of Treg cells. Therefore, in the present study, the relationship between genetic polymorphism of FOXP3 in Treg-cell role and in disease development are reviewed considering the interactive effect of genetic factors.
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24
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Daniel V, Wang H, Sadeghi M, Opelz G. Interferon-gamma producing regulatory T cells as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool in organ transplantation. Int Rev Immunol 2013; 33:195-211. [PMID: 24266365 DOI: 10.3109/08830185.2013.845181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that IFNg plays a major role in both induction of Tregs as well as immunosuppression mediated by IFNg-producing Tregs. The present review focuses on a small subset of iTregs that produces IFNg, comprises only 0.04% of all CD4(+) T lymphocytes in the blood of healthy individuals, and increases strongly during an immune response. IFNg(+) Tregs are induced by IFNg and IL12, making them sensors for inflammatory cytokines. They develop rapidly during inflammation and represent the first line of Tregs that suppress initial immune responses. The pool of IFNg(+) Tregs consists of activated stable immunosuppressive thymus-derived nTregs as well as peripherally proliferating iTregs with in part only transient immunosuppressive function, which limits their diagnostic and therapeutic usefulness in organ transplantation. Apparently, a part of IFNg(+) Tregs dies during the immune response, whereas others, after efficient immunosuppression with resolution of the immune response, differentiate toward Th1 lymphocytes. Goals of further research are the development of appropriate diagnostic tests for rapid and exact determinination of immunosuppressive IFNg(+) iTregs, as well as the induction and propagation of stable immunosuppressive IFNg(+) Tregs that establish and maintain good long-term graft function in transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Daniel
- Department of Transplantation-Immunology, Institute of Immunology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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25
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Chen Z, Barbi J, Bu S, Yang HY, Li Z, Gao Y, Jinasena D, Fu J, Lin F, Chen C, Zhang J, Yu N, Li X, Shan Z, Nie J, Gao Z, Tian H, Li Y, Yao Z, Zheng Y, Park BV, Pan Z, Zhang J, Dang E, Li Z, Wang H, Luo W, Li L, Semenza GL, Zheng SG, Loser K, Tsun A, Greene MI, Pardoll DM, Pan F, Li B. The ubiquitin ligase Stub1 negatively modulates regulatory T cell suppressive activity by promoting degradation of the transcription factor Foxp3. Immunity 2013; 39:272-85. [PMID: 23973223 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2013.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells suppress inflammatory immune responses and autoimmunity caused by self-reactive T cells. The key Treg cell transcription factor Foxp3 is downregulated during inflammation to allow for the acquisition of effector T cell-like functions. Here, we demonstrate that stress signals elicited by proinflammatory cytokines and lipopolysaccharides lead to the degradation of Foxp3 through the action of the E3 ubiquitin ligase Stub1. Stub1 interacted with Foxp3 to promote its K48-linked polyubiquitination in an Hsp70-dependent manner. Knockdown of endogenous Stub1 or Hsp70 prevented Foxp3 degradation. Furthermore, the overexpression of Stub1 in Treg cells abrogated their ability to suppress inflammatory immune responses in vitro and in vivo and conferred a T-helper-1-cell-like phenotype. Our results demonstrate the critical role of the stress-activated Stub1-Hsp70 complex in promoting Treg cell inactivation, thus providing a potential therapeutic target for the intervention against autoimmune disease, infection, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuojia Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Joseph Barbi
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Shurui Bu
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.,Affiliated Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201508, China
| | - Huang-Yu Yang
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.,Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Zhiyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yayi Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Dilini Jinasena
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Juan Fu
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Fang Lin
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Ning Yu
- Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Affiliated Anhui Provincial Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Xiangpei Li
- Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Affiliated Anhui Provincial Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Zhao Shan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jia Nie
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Zhimei Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Hong Tian
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Yangyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Zhengju Yao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Ying Zheng
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Benjamin V Park
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Ziyi Pan
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Jing Zhang
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Eric Dang
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Zhiguang Li
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Honglin Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Weibo Luo
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medicine, Oncology, Radiation Oncology, and Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Liwu Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Gregg L Semenza
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medicine, Oncology, Radiation Oncology, and Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Song-Guo Zheng
- Department of Medicine, Autoimmunity Research Center, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Karin Loser
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Andy Tsun
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Mark I Greene
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadephia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Drew M Pardoll
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Fan Pan
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Bin Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Unit of Molecular Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200025, China
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Zhang X, Chang Li X, Xiao X, Sun R, Tian Z, Wei H. CD4(+)CD62L(+) central memory T cells can be converted to Foxp3(+) T cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e77322. [PMID: 24155942 PMCID: PMC3796486 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0077322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The peripheral Foxp3(+) Treg pool consists of naturally arising Treg (nTreg) and adaptive Treg cells (iTreg). It is well known that naive CD4(+) T cells can be readily converted to Foxp3(+) iTreg in vitro, and memory CD4(+) T cells are resistant to conversion. In this study, we investigated the induction of Foxp3(+) T cells from various CD4(+) T-cell subsets in human peripheral blood. Though naive CD4(+) T cells were readily converted to Foxp3(+) T cells with TGF-β and IL-2 treatment in vitro, such Foxp3(+) T cells did not express the memory marker CD45RO as do Foxp3(+) T cells induced in the peripheral blood of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) patients. Interestingly, a subset of human memory CD4(+) T cells, defined as CD62L(+) central memory T cells, could be induced by TGF-β to differentiate into Foxp3(+) T cells. It is well known that Foxp3(+) T cells derived from human CD4(+)CD25(-) T cells in vitro are lack suppressive functions. Our data about the suppressive functions of CD4(+)CD62L(+) central memory T cell-derived Foxp3(+) T cells support this conception, and an epigenetic analysis of these cells showed a similar methylation pattern in the FOXP3 Treg-specific demethylated region as the naive CD4(+) T cell-derived Foxp3(+) T cells. But further research showed that mouse CD4(+) central memory T cells also could be induced to differentiate into Foxp3(+) T cells, such Foxp3(+) T cells could suppress the proliferation of effector T cells. Thus, our study identified CD4(+)CD62L(+) central memory T cells as a novel potential source of iTreg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Zhang
- Institute of Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xian Chang Li
- Transplant Research Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital & Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Xiang Xiao
- Transplant Research Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital & Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rui Sun
- Institute of Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- Institute of Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
- * E-mail: (HW); (ZT)
| | - Haiming Wei
- Institute of Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
- * E-mail: (HW); (ZT)
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Lehtimäki S, Lahesmaa R. Regulatory T Cells Control Immune Responses through Their Non-Redundant Tissue Specific Features. Front Immunol 2013; 4:294. [PMID: 24069022 PMCID: PMC3780303 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2013.00294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) are needed in the control of immune responses and to maintain immune homeostasis. Of this subtype of regulatory lymphocytes, the most potent are Foxp3 expressing CD4+ T cells, which can be roughly divided into two main groups; natural Treg cells (nTreg), developing in the thymus, and induced or adaptive Treg cells (iTreg), developing in the periphery from naïve, conventional T cells. Both nTreg cells and iTreg cells have their own, non-redundant roles in the immune system, with nTreg cells mainly maintaining tolerance toward self-structures, and iTreg developing in response to externally delivered antigens or commensal microbes. In addition, Treg cells acquire tissue specific features and are adapted to function in the tissue they reside. This review will focus on some specific features of Treg cells in different compartments of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Lehtimäki
- Turku Centre for Biotechnology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University , Turku , Finland
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28
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Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis identifies hypomethylated genes regulated by FOXP3 in human regulatory T cells. Blood 2013; 122:2823-36. [PMID: 23974203 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2013-02-481788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) prevent the emergence of autoimmune disease. Prototypic natural Treg (nTreg) can be reliably identified by demethylation at the Forkhead-box P3 (FOXP3) locus. To explore the methylation landscape of nTreg, we analyzed genome-wide methylation in human naive nTreg (rTreg) and conventional naive CD4(+) T cells (Naive). We detected 2315 differentially methylated cytosine-guanosine dinucleotides (CpGs) between these 2 cell types, many of which clustered into 127 regions of differential methylation (RDMs). Activation changed the methylation status of 466 CpGs and 18 RDMs in Naive but did not alter DNA methylation in rTreg. Gene-set testing of the 127 RDMs showed that promoter methylation and gene expression were reciprocally related. RDMs were enriched for putative FOXP3-binding motifs. Moreover, CpGs within known FOXP3-binding regions in the genome were hypomethylated. In support of the view that methylation limits access of FOXP3 to its DNA targets, we showed that increased expression of the immune suppressive receptor T-cell immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif domain (TIGIT), which delineated Treg from activated effector T cells, was associated with hypomethylation and FOXP3 binding at the TIGIT locus. Differential methylation analysis provides insight into previously undefined human Treg signature genes and their mode of regulation.
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29
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Povoleri GAM, Scottà C, Nova-Lamperti EA, John S, Lombardi G, Afzali B. Thymic versus induced regulatory T cells - who regulates the regulators? Front Immunol 2013; 4:169. [PMID: 23818888 PMCID: PMC3694260 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2013.00169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Physiological health must balance immunological responsiveness against foreign pathogens with tolerance toward self-components and commensals. Disruption of this balance causes autoimmune diseases/chronic inflammation, in case of excessive immune responses, and persistent infection/immunodeficiency if regulatory components are overactive. This homeostasis occurs at two different levels: at a resting state to prevent autoimmune disease, as autoreactive effector T-cells (Teffs) are only partially deleted in the thymus, and during inflammation to prevent excessive tissue injury, contract the immune response, and enable tissue repair. Adaptive immune cells with regulatory function (“regulatory T-cells”) are essential to control Teffs. Two sets of regulatory T cell are required to achieve the desired control: those emerging de novo from embryonic/neonatal thymus (“thymic” or tTregs), whose function is to control autoreactive Teffs to prevent autoimmune diseases, and those induced in the periphery (“peripheral” or pTregs) to acquire regulatory phenotype in response to pathogens/inflammation. The differentiation mechanisms of these cells determine their commitment to lineage and plasticity toward other phenotypes. tTregs, expressing high levels of IL-2 receptor alpha chain (CD25), and the transcription factor Foxp3, are the most important, since mutations or deletions in these genes cause fatal autoimmune diseases in both mice and men. In the periphery, instead, Foxp3+ pTregs can be induced from naïve precursors in response to environmental signals. Here, we discuss molecular signatures and induction processes, mechanisms and sites of action, lineage stability, and differentiating characteristics of both Foxp3+ and Foxp3− populations of regulatory T cells, derived from the thymus or induced peripherally. We relate these predicates to programs of cell-based therapy for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and induction of tolerance to transplants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Antonio Maria Povoleri
- Medical Research Council Centre for Transplantation, King's College London , London , UK ; National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London , London , UK
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30
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Jia L, Zhu L, Wang JZ, Wang XJ, Chen JZ, Song L, Wu YJ, Sun K, Yuan ZY, Hui R. Methylation of FOXP3 in regulatory T cells is related to the severity of coronary artery disease. Atherosclerosis 2013; 228:346-52. [PMID: 23566804 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2013.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Regulatory T (Treg) cells have been shown to play a protective role in experimental atherosclerosis. However, it is unclear whether Tregs can protect from rupture of vulnerable plaque in patients with atherosclerosis. Demethylation of the DNA encoding the transcription factor forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) was found to be essential for the stable maintenance of the suppressive properties of Tregs. We aimed to evaluate Treg levels in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) using a method based on Treg-specific DNA demethylation within the FOXP3 gene. METHODS AND RESULTS Peripheral blood was collected to determine Treg levels by PCR-based DNA methylation analysis. We found that Treg levels were decreased in patients with ACS compared with normal coronary controls. The decrease in Tregs was associated with the severity of the ACS. Furthermore, up-regulation of DNA-methyltransferases was detected in CD4(+)CD25(+) Tregs obtained from ACS patients as compared to those from normal coronary controls. A dose-dependent increase in the methylation of the Treg-specific demethylated region in FOXP3 was observed in cultures of PBMCs with ox-LDL. Moreover, the ox-LDL-induced Treg effects could be restored by loading (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate, a methyltransferase inhibitor. Treatment of CD4(+)CD25(+) Tregs with ox-LDL resulted in a 41% increase in the methylation of FOXP3, a 66% of reduction in FOXP3 mRNA expression, and an increase in the expression of DNA methyltransferase 3a as well as 3b. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that reduction in Treg cells is associated with ACS in atherosclerotic patients. Epigenetic suppression of FOXP3 might lead to down-regulation of Treg cells, and in turn increase the risk of ACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jia
- Sino-German Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Fuwai Hospital & Cardiovascular Institute, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, 167 Beilishilu, Beijing 100037, PR China.
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Wiley KL, Treadwell E, Manigaba K, Word B, Lyn-Cook BD. Ethnic differences in DNA methyltransferases expression in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. J Clin Immunol 2013; 33:342-8. [PMID: 23054340 PMCID: PMC3573322 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-012-9803-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2011] [Accepted: 09/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune inflammatory disease with both genetic and epigenetic etiologies. Evidence suggests that deregulation of specific genes through epigenetic mechanisms may be a contributing factor to SLE pathology. There is increasing evidence that DNA methyltransferase activity may be involved. This study demonstrated modulation in expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) according to ethnicity in patients diagnosed with SLE. Furthermore, differential expression in one of the DNMTs was found in a subset of lupus patients on dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) therapy. METHODS Real-time PCR analyses of DNMT1, DNMT3A and DNMT3B in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a cohort of African American and European American lupus and non-lupus women were conducted. Also, global DNA methylation was assessed using the MethylFlash(TM) methylated quantification colorimetric assay. RESULTS Significant increase in DNMT3A (p < 0.001) was shown in lupus patients when compared to age-matched healthy controls. This increase was associated with a higher SLEDI index. More striking was that expression levels for African American (AA) women were higher than European American women in the lupus populations. A subset of AA women on DHEA therapy showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in DNMT3A expression in comparison to lupus patients not on the therapy. DHEA is an androgenic steroid found in low levels in the serum of lupus patients. Supplementation of this hormone has been shown to be beneficial to some lupus patients. DHEA was not shown to effect DNMT1 or DNMT3B expression. Increased expression was also noted in DNMT3B (p < 0.05) in lupus patients compared to age-matched healthy controls. However, no significant difference was noted in DNMT1 (p = 0.2148) expression between lupus patients and healthy controls. Although increases were detected in de novo methyltransferases, a global decrease (p < 0.001) in 5-methycytosine was observed in lupus patients when compared to age-matched healthy controls. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that epigenetic changes may play a critical role in the manifestations of the disease observed among ethnic groups, particularly African American women who often have a higher incidence of lupus. DHEA therapy effects on DNMT3A expression in AA women warrant further investigation in a larger population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth L. Wiley
- FDA-National Center for Toxicological Research, 3900 NCTR Rd, Jefferson, AR 72079 USA
| | | | - Kayihura Manigaba
- FDA-National Center for Toxicological Research, 3900 NCTR Rd, Jefferson, AR 72079 USA
| | - Beverly Word
- FDA-National Center for Toxicological Research, 3900 NCTR Rd, Jefferson, AR 72079 USA
| | - Beverly D. Lyn-Cook
- FDA-National Center for Toxicological Research, 3900 NCTR Rd, Jefferson, AR 72079 USA
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Cabrera SM, Rigby MR, Mirmira RG. Targeting regulatory T cells in the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Curr Mol Med 2012; 12:1261-72. [PMID: 22709273 PMCID: PMC3709459 DOI: 10.2174/156652412803833634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2011] [Revised: 02/20/2012] [Accepted: 02/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a T cell-mediated autoimmune disease resulting in islet β cell destruction, hypoinsulinemia, and severely altered glucose homeostasis. T1DM has classically been attributed to the pathogenic actions of auto-reactive effector T cells(Teffs) on the β cell. Recent literature now suggests that a failure of a second T cell subtype, known as regulatory T cells (Tregs), plays a critical role in the development of T1DM. During immune homeostasis, Tregs counterbalance the actions of autoreactive Teff cells, thereby participating in peripheral tolerance. An imbalance in the activity between Teff and Tregs may be crucial in the breakdown of peripheral tolerance, leading to the development of T1DM. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of Treg function in health and in T1DM, and examine the effect of experimental therapies for T1DM on Treg cell number and function in both mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne M. Cabrera
- Department of Pediatrics and the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202
| | - Mark R. Rigby
- Department of Pediatrics and the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202
| | - Raghavendra G. Mirmira
- Department of Pediatrics and the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202
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Ngalamika O, Zhang Y, Yin H, Zhao M, Gershwin ME, Lu Q. Epigenetics, autoimmunity and hematologic malignancies: a comprehensive review. J Autoimmun 2012; 39:451-65. [PMID: 23084980 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2012.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The relationships between immunological dysfunction, loss of tolerance and hematologic malignancies have been a focus of attention in attempts to understand the appearance of a higher degree of autoimmune disease and lymphoma in children with congenital immunodeficiency. Although multiple hypotheses have been offered, it is clear that stochastic processes play an important role in the immunopathology of these issues. In particular, accumulating evidence is defining a role of epigenetic mechanisms as being critical in this continuous spectrum between autoimmunity and lymphoma. In this review, we focus attention predominantly on the relationships between T helper 17 (Th17) and T regulatory populations that alter local microenvironments and ultimately the expression or transcription factors involved in cell activation and differentiation. Abnormal expression in any of the molecules involved in Th17 and/or Treg development alter immune homeostasis and in genetically susceptible hosts may lead to the appearance of autoimmunity and/or lymphoma. These observations have clinical significance in explaining the discordance of autoimmunity in identical twins. They are also particularly important in the relationships between primary immune deficiency syndromes, immune dysregulation and an increased risk of lymphoma. Indeed, defining the factors that determine epigenetic alterations and their relationships to immune homeostasis will be a challenge greater or even equal to the human genome project.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen Ngalamika
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, #139 Renmin Middle Rd, Changsha, Hunan 410011, PR China
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CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+)IFNγ(+) Treg are immunosuppressive in vitro and increase with intensity of the alloresponse in pretransplant MLC. Transpl Immunol 2012; 27:114-21. [PMID: 22954802 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2012.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Revised: 08/17/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
IFNγ-producing CD3(+)CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) induced Treg are more frequently detectable in patients with good than in patients with impaired long-term kidney graft function. We investigated the in-vitro function of separated CD3(+)CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+)IFNγ(+) PBL that were induced by phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate(PMA)/Ionomycin or alloantigenic stimulation. Additionally, we studied iTreg induction and cell proliferation in MLC with pretransplant obtained PBL. CD4(+)CD25(+)IFNγ(+) PBL separated from PMA/Ionomycin-stimulated PBL of healthy controls inhibited secondary cell cultures of autologous PBL. Furthermore, CD4(+)CD25(+)IFNγ(+) PBL separated from primary MLC and added to secondary MLC suppressed allogeneic T-cell activation in secondary MLC unspecifically, irrespective of the stimulator cell. However, the strongest suppression was observed in specific MLC. Patients with poor long-term graft outcome were able to form IFNγ(+) iTreg in pretransplant MLC. Eight patients with a serum creatinine level ranging from 0.9 to 14 mg/dl 18-29 years posttransplant were studied. In MLC with pretransplant obtained recipient and donor cells, strong IFNγ(+) iTreg (p=0.007) and strong blast induction (p=0.047) were associated with impaired long-term graft outcome. Long-term graft outcome was not associated with cell proliferation and iTreg induction in unspecific MLC with third-party cells as stimulator. The data indicate that patients with impaired long-term graft outcome are able to form high numbers of IFNγ(+) iTreg in specific pretransplant MLC. Quantity of induced IFNγ(+) iTreg depends on the strength of the alloresponse and both parameters are inversely associated with long-term graft outcome.
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Pacheco KA. Epigenetics mediate environment : gene effects on occupational sensitization. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2012; 12:111-8. [PMID: 22306555 DOI: 10.1097/aci.0b013e328351518f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Epigenetics is the study of stable modifications of fixed genomes that direct which genes are expressed and which are silenced. Epigenetic changes are modulated by environmental exposures, making epigenetics the interface between genes and environment. This has particular relevance in understanding the effect of occupational exposures on the expression of allergic disease. The goal of this review is to describe how epigenetic changes affect transcription potential, and to examine more closely the effect of specific environmental and occupational exposures on epigenetic variations that alter allergy gene transcripts and the inflammatory milieu. RECENT FINDINGS Gene transcription is activated when specific CpG sites are demethylated and histones are acetylated, and, conversely, silenced when sites are methylated and histones deacetylated. The development of Th1 and Th2 phenotypes, and expression of Treg cells, are now known to be modulated by epigenetic mechanisms. Workplace exposures such as tobacco smoke, particulates, diesel exhaust, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, ozone, and endotoxin, among others, suppress Treg development, and enhance expression of inflammatory cytokines and allergic phenotypes by epigenetic means. SUMMARY Epigenetic manipulation to open and close transcription sites provides flexibility of gene expression in response to changing environmental cues. It may also be the window whereby allergic disease in the workplace can be reduced by targeted environmental interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin A Pacheco
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver and Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
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Bontkes HJ, Ruben JM, Alhan C, Westers TM, Ossenkoppele GJ, van de Loosdrecht AA. Azacitidine differentially affects CD4pos T-cell polarization in vitro and in vivo in high risk myelodysplastic syndromes. Leuk Res 2012; 36:921-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2012.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2011] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Li Y, Chen G, Ma L, Ohms SJ, Sun C, Shannon MF, Fan JY. Plasticity of DNA methylation in mouse T cell activation and differentiation. BMC Mol Biol 2012; 13:16. [PMID: 22642378 PMCID: PMC3386888 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2199-13-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2011] [Accepted: 05/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Circulating CD4+ T helper cells are activated through interactions with antigen presenting cells and undergo differentiation into specific T helper cell subsets depending on the type of antigen encountered. In addition, the relative composition of the circulating CD4+ T cell population changes as animals mature with an increased percentage of the population being memory/effector type cells. Results Here, we report on the highly plastic nature of DNA methylation at the genome-wide level as T cells undergo activation, differentiation and aging. Of particular note were the findings that DNA demethylation occurred rapidly following T cell activation and that all differentiated T cell populations displayed lower levels of global methylation than the non-differentiated population. In addition, T cells from older mice had a reduced level of DNA methylation, most likely explained by the increase in the memory/effector cell fraction. Although significant genome-wide changes were observed, changes in DNA methylation at individual genes were restricted to specific cell types. Changes in the expression of enzymes involved in DNA methylation and demethylation reflect in most cases the changes observed in the genome-wide DNA methylation status. Conclusion We have demonstrated that DNA methylation is dynamic and flexible in CD4+ T cells and changes rapidly both in a genome-wide and in a targeted manner during T cell activation, differentiation. These changes are accompanied by parallel changes in the enzymatic complexes that have been implicated in DNA methylation and demethylation implying that the balance between these opposing activities may play a role in the maintaining the methylation profile of a given cell type but also allow flexibility in a cell population that needs to respond rapidly to environmental signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi 712100, P. R. China
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Bettini ML, Pan F, Bettini M, Finkelstein D, Rehg JE, Floess S, Bell BD, Ziegler SF, Huehn J, Pardoll DM, Vignali DA. Loss of epigenetic modification driven by the Foxp3 transcription factor leads to regulatory T cell insufficiency. Immunity 2012; 36:717-30. [PMID: 22579476 PMCID: PMC3361541 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2012.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2011] [Revised: 01/19/2012] [Accepted: 03/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells, driven by the Foxp3 transcription factor, are responsible for limiting autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. We showed that a well-characterized Foxp3(gfp) reporter mouse, which expresses an N-terminal GFP-Foxp3 fusion protein, is a hypomorph that causes profoundly accelerated autoimmune diabetes on a NOD background. Although natural Treg cell development and in vitro function are not markedly altered in Foxp3(gfp) NOD and C57BL/6 mice, Treg cell function in inflammatory environments was perturbed and TGF-β-induced Treg cell development was reduced. Foxp3(gfp) was unable to interact with the histone acetyltransferase Tip60, the histone deacetylase HDAC7, and the Ikaros family zinc finger 4, Eos, which led to reduced Foxp3 acetylation and enhanced K48-linked polyubiquitylation. Collectively this results in an altered transcriptional landscape and reduced Foxp3-mediated gene repression, notably at the hallmark IL-2 promoter. Loss of controlled Foxp3-driven epigenetic modification leads to Treg cell insufficiency that enables autoimmunity in susceptible environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew L. Bettini
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Fan Pan
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Maria Bettini
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - David Finkelstein
- Bioinformatics St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Jerold E. Rehg
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Stefan Floess
- Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstr. 7, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | | | - Jochen Huehn
- Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstr. 7, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Drew M. Pardoll
- Immunology and Hematopoiesis Division, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Dario A.A. Vignali
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
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Barzaghi F, Passerini L, Gambineri E, Ciullini Mannurita S, Cornu T, Kang ES, Choe YH, Cancrini C, Corrente S, Ciccocioppo R, Cecconi M, Zuin G, Discepolo V, Sartirana C, Schmidtko J, Ikinciogullari A, Ambrosi A, Roncarolo MG, Olek S, Bacchetta R. Demethylation analysis of the FOXP3 locus shows quantitative defects of regulatory T cells in IPEX-like syndrome. J Autoimmun 2012; 38:49-58. [PMID: 22264504 PMCID: PMC3314976 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2011.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2011] [Revised: 12/15/2011] [Accepted: 12/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Immune dysregulation, Polyendocrinopathy, Enteropathy X-linked (IPEX) syndrome is a unique example of primary immunodeficiency characterized by autoimmune manifestations due to defective regulatory T (Treg) cells, in the presence of FOXP3 mutations. However, autoimmune symptoms phenotypically resembling IPEX often occur in the absence of detectable FOXP3 mutations. The cause of this “IPEX-like” syndrome presently remains unclear. To investigate whether a defect in Treg cells sustains the immunological dysregulation in IPEX-like patients, we measured the amount of peripheral Treg cells within the CD3+ T cells by analysing demethylation of the Treg cell-Specific-Demethylated-Region (TSDR) in the FOXP3 locus and demethylation of the T cell-Specific-Demethylated-Region (TLSDR) in the CD3 locus, highly specific markers for stable Treg cells and overall T cells, respectively. TSDR demethylation analysis, alone or normalized for the total T cells, showed that the amount of peripheral Treg cells in a cohort of IPEX-like patients was significantly reduced, as compared to both healthy subjects and unrelated disease controls. This reduction could not be displayed by flow cytometric analysis, showing highly variable percentages of FOXP3+ and CD25+FOXP3+ T cells. These data provide evidence that a quantitative defect of Treg cells could be considered a common biological hallmark of IPEX-like syndrome. Since Treg cell suppressive function was not impaired, we propose that this reduction per se could sustain autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Barzaghi
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells and Gene Therapy, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20131 Milan, Italy
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Cruz CR, Gerdemann U, Leen AM, Shafer JA, Ku S, Tzou B, Horton TM, Sheehan A, Copeland A, Younes A, Rooney CM, Heslop HE, Bollard CM. Improving T-cell therapy for relapsed EBV-negative Hodgkin lymphoma by targeting upregulated MAGE-A4. Clin Cancer Res 2011; 17:7058-66. [PMID: 21908573 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-11-1873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) relapsing after hematopoietic stem cell transplant have limited options for long-term cure. We have shown that infused cytotoxic T cells (CTL) targeting Epstein Barr virus (EBV)-derived proteins induced complete remissions in EBV(+) HL patients. A limitation of this approach is that up to 70% of relapsed HL tumors are EBV-negative. For these patients, an alternative is to target the cancer/testis antigen MAGE-A4 present in EBV antigen-negative HL tumors. Furthermore, epigenetic modification by clinically available demethylating agents can enhance MAGE-A4 expression in previously MAGE-negative tumors. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We explored the feasibility of combining adoptive T cell therapy with epigenetic modification of tumor antigen expression. We further characterized MAGE-A4-specific T-cell phenotype and function, and examined the effects of the epigenetic modifying drug decitabine on these T cells. RESULTS Cytotoxic T cells were generated specifically recognizing MAGE-A4 expressed by autologous HL targets and tumor cell lines. Decitabine-previously shown to increase tumor antigen expression in HL-did not compromise MAGE-A4-specific T-cell phenotype and function. In patients treated with decitabine, expanded MAGE-A4-specific T cells had a broader antitumor T cell repertoire, consistent with increased antigen stimulation in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Adoptive transfer of MAGE-A4-specific T cells, combined with epigenetic modifying drugs to increase expression of the protein, may improve treatment of relapsed HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conrad R Cruz
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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41
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Chen Q, Kim YC, Laurence A, Punkosdy GA, Shevach EM. IL-2 controls the stability of Foxp3 expression in TGF-beta-induced Foxp3+ T cells in vivo. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2011; 186:6329-37. [PMID: 21525380 PMCID: PMC3098943 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1100061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Stimulation of naive mouse CD4(+)Foxp3(-) T cells in the presence of TGF-β results in the induction of Foxp3 expression and T suppressor function. However, Foxp3 expression in these induced regulatory T cells (iTreg) is unstable, raising the possibility that iTreg would not be useful for treatment of autoimmune diseases. To analyze the factors that control the stability of Foxp3 expression in iTreg, we generated OVA-specific iTreg from OT-II Foxp3-GFP knockin mice. Following transfer to normal C57BL/6 mice, OT-II GFP(+) cells maintained high levels of Foxp3 expression for 8 d. However, they rapidly lost Foxp3 expression upon stimulation with OVA in IFA in vivo. This unstable phenotype was associated with a strong methylation of the Treg-specific demethylated region within the Foxp3 locus. Administration of IL-2/anti-IL-2 complexes expanded the numbers of transferred Foxp3(+) iTreg in the absence of Ag challenge. Notably, when the iTreg were stimulated with Ag, treatment with IL-2/anti-IL-2 complexes stabilized Foxp3 expression and resulted in enhanced demethylation of the Treg-specific demethylated region. Conversely, neutralization of IL-2 or disruption of its signaling by deletion of Stat5 diminished the level of Foxp3 expression resulting in decreased suppressor function of the iTreg in vivo. Our data suggest that stimulation with TGF-β in vitro is not sufficient for imprinting T cells with stable expression of Foxp3. Administration of IL-2 in vivo results in stabilization of Foxp3 expression and may prove to be a valuable adjunct for the use of iTreg for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
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MESH Headings
- Adoptive Transfer
- Animals
- Antibodies/immunology
- Antibodies/pharmacology
- Cells, Cultured
- DNA Methylation/drug effects
- Flow Cytometry
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Green Fluorescent Proteins/genetics
- Green Fluorescent Proteins/metabolism
- Interleukin-2/immunology
- Interleukin-2/metabolism
- Interleukin-2/pharmacology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, Transgenic
- Ovalbumin/immunology
- Promoter Regions, Genetic/genetics
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/immunology
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/genetics
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/metabolism
- STAT5 Transcription Factor/genetics
- STAT5 Transcription Factor/immunology
- Signal Transduction/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/metabolism
- Transforming Growth Factor beta/immunology
- Transforming Growth Factor beta/metabolism
- Transforming Growth Factor beta/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- Laboratory of Immunology, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Yong Chan Kim
- Laboratory of Immunology, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Arian Laurence
- Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - George A. Punkosdy
- Laboratory of Immunology, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Ethan M. Shevach
- Laboratory of Immunology, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
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42
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Ye J, Su X, Hsueh EC, Zhang Y, Koenig JM, Hoft DF, Peng G. Human tumor-infiltrating Th17 cells have the capacity to differentiate into IFN-γ+ and FOXP3+ T cells with potent suppressive function. Eur J Immunol 2011; 41:936-51. [PMID: 21381020 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201040682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2010] [Revised: 11/29/2010] [Accepted: 01/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that Th17 cells and Tregs may exhibit development plasticity and that CD4(+) Tregs can differentiate into IL-17-producing T cells; however, whether Th17 cells can reciprocally convert into Tregs has not been described. In this study, we generated Th17 clones from tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes (TILs). We showed that Th17 clones generated from TILs can differentiate into IFN-γ-producing and FOXP3(+) cells after in vitro stimulation with OKT3 and allogeneic peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We further demonstrated that T-cell receptor (TCR) engagement was responsible for this conversion, and that this differentiation was due to the epigenetic modification and reprogramming of gene expression profiles, including lineage-specific transcriptional factor and cytokine genes. In addition to expressing IFN-γ and FOXP3, we showed that these differentiated Th17 clones mediated potent suppressive function after repetitive stimulation with OKT3, suggesting that these Th17 clones had differentiated into functional Tregs. We further demonstrated that the Th17-derived Tregs, unlike naturally occurring CD4(+) CD25(+) Tregs, did not reconvert back into Th17 cells even under Th17-biasing cytokine conditions. These results provide the critical evidence that human tumor-infiltrating Th17 cells can differentiate into Tregs and indicate a substantial developmental plasticity of Th17 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Ye
- Division of Immunobiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63104, USA
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43
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Peters JH, Koenen HJPM, Hilbrands LB, Joosten I. Immunotherapy with regulatory T cells in transplantation. Immunotherapy 2011; 1:855-71. [PMID: 20636028 DOI: 10.2217/imt.09.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cell (Treg)-based immunotherapy is of great interest to induce tolerance in clinical transplantation settings. In fact, the first clinical trials of Treg infusion after stem cell transplantation have recently begun. However, many important issues regarding human Treg immunotherapy are still to be resolved. In this review, we provide a short update on Tregs and elaborate on various strategies for Treg-based immunotherapy. First, infusion of ex vivo-selected naturally occurring Tregs is addressed, with emphasis on Treg isolation, expansion, antigen specificity, homing and stability. Next, the potential of ex vivo-induced Treg transfusion strategies is discussed. Finally, therapies aimed at in vivo increase of Treg numbers or function are addressed. In addition, we summarize the current knowledge on effects of immunosuppressive drugs on Tregs. In the following years, we expect exciting new data regarding the clinical application of Treg immunotherapy in transplantation to be released.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorieke H Peters
- Department of Blood Transfusion & Transplantation Immunology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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44
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Regulation of T cell activation by TLR ligands. Eur J Cell Biol 2011; 90:582-92. [PMID: 21292344 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2010.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2010] [Revised: 11/18/2010] [Accepted: 11/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) maintain peripheral tolerance and play a critical role in the control of the immune response in infection, tumor defense, organ transplantation and allergy. CD4(+)CD25(high) Treg suppress the proliferation and cytokine production of CD4(+)CD25(-) responder T cells. The suppression requires cell-cell-contact and/or production of inhibitory cytokines like IL-10 or TGF-β. The current knowledge about the regulation of Treg suppressive function is limited. Toll-like receptors (TLR) are widely expressed in the innate immune system. They recognize conserved microbial ligands such as lipopolysaccharide, bacterial lipopeptides or viral and bacterial RNA and DNA. TLR play an essential role in innate immune responses and in the initiation of adaptive immune responses. However, certain TLR are also expressed in T lymphocytes, and the respective ligands can directly modulate T cell function. TLR2, TLR3, TLR5 and TLR9 act as costimulatory receptors to enhance proliferation and/or cytokine production of T-cell receptor-stimulated T lymphocytes. In addition, TLR2, TLR5 and TLR8 modulate the suppressive activity of naturally occurring CD4(+)CD25(high) Treg. The direct responsiveness of T lymphocytes to TLR ligands offers new perspectives for the immunotherapeutic manipulation of T cell responses. In this article we will discuss the regulation of Treg and other T cell subsets by TLR ligands.
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45
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Toker A, Huehn J. To Be or Not to Be a Treg Cell: Lineage Decisions Controlled by Epigenetic Mechanisms. Sci Signal 2011; 4:pe4. [DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.2001783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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46
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McMurchy AN, Gillies J, Allan SE, Passerini L, Gambineri E, Roncarolo MG, Bacchetta R, Levings MK. Point mutants of forkhead box P3 that cause immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked have diverse abilities to reprogram T cells into regulatory T cells. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2010; 126:1242-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2010.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2010] [Revised: 08/06/2010] [Accepted: 09/02/2010] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Beyer M, Schultze JL. Plasticity of T(reg) cells: is reprogramming of T(reg) cells possible in the presence of FOXP3? Int Immunopharmacol 2010; 11:555-60. [PMID: 21115121 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2010.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2010] [Revised: 11/11/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (T(reg) cells) are involved in self tolerance, immune homeostasis, prevention of autoimmunity, and suppression of immunity to pathogens or tumors. The forkhead transcription factor FOXP3 is essential for T(reg)-cell development and function as mutations in FOXP3 cause severe autoimmune diseases in mice and humans. Over the last years it has been postulated that FOXP3 expression in T(reg) prevents effector T-cell (T(effector)-cell) lineage commitment, yet several recent studies suggest that the co-existence of effector and regulatory T-cell programs can occur and might help to enable T(reg) cells with properties necessary to exert their function in peripheral tissues. Furthermore, downregulation of FOXP3 in the periphery might help T(reg) cells to lose suppressive functions and gain memory properties with specificity for self-antigens and an effector phenotype including the ability to produce IFN-γ and IL-17. This plasticity might have an impact on their reactivity towards autoimmunity as well as tumors or infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Beyer
- LIMES-Institute, Laboratory for Genomics and Immunoregulation, University of Bonn, Carl-Troll-Str. 31, D-53115 Bonn, Germany.
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48
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FOXP3 and RORγt: transcriptional regulation of Treg and Th17. Int Immunopharmacol 2010; 11:536-42. [PMID: 21081189 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2010.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2010] [Revised: 10/29/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
FOXP3(+)CD4(+)CD25(+) Regulatory T (Treg) cells and IL-17 producing helper T cells (Th17) are critical subsets of T cells which play essential roles in immune homeostasis. The Forkhead family transcription factor FOXP3 is predominantly expressed in Treg cells, where the FOXP3 ensemble is essential for Treg cell development and function. As FOXP3 is to Treg cells, the orphan retinoic acid nuclear receptor (ROR) family transcription factor RORγt is essential for Th17 development and function. In this review, we summarize recent progress of our understanding towards the molecular mechanisms underlying the differentiation and function of FOXP3(+) Treg cells and RORγt expressing Th17 cells. These may provide new insights into therapeutic intervention and targeting of human immune-deficient diseases.
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49
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Transcriptional regulation of Foxp3 in regulatory T cells. Immunobiology 2010; 216:678-85. [PMID: 21122941 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2010.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2010] [Revised: 11/05/2010] [Accepted: 11/05/2010] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells constitute a unique T-cell lineage that plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of the peripheral tolerance. The transcription factor Foxp3 (Forkhead box P3) was identified as a master regulator for the development and function of Treg cells. It is well defined that Foxp3 expression is critical to program CD4+CD25+ Treg cell development and function; however, the molecular mechanisms that are involved in the regulation of the Foxp3 expression remain unclear. Recent studies have showed an indication that this process is influenced by a number of transcription factors. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of how Foxp3 expression is controlled at molecular level by focusing on these factors.
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50
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Lei J, Hasegawa H, Matsumoto T, Yasukawa M. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α and γ agonists together with TGF-β convert human CD4+CD25- T cells into functional Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2010; 185:7186-98. [PMID: 21057085 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1001437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Human peripheral CD4(+)CD25(-) T cells can be induced to express Foxp3 when activated in vitro by TCR stimulation with TGF-β and IL-2. However, these TGF-β-induced Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells (iTregs) lack a regulatory phenotype. From libraries of nuclear receptor ligands and bioactive lipids, we screened three peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α (bezafibrate, GW7647, and 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid) and two PPARγ agonists (ciglitazone and 15-deoxy-Δ-(12,14)-PG J(2)) as molecules that increased Foxp3 expression in human iTregs significantly compared with that in DMSO-treated iTregs (control). These PPARα and PPARγ agonist-treated iTregs maintained a high level of Foxp3 expression and had suppressive properties. There were no significant differences in the suppressive properties of iTregs treated with the three PPARα and two PPARγ agonists, and all of the treated iTregs increased demethylation levels of the Foxp3 promoter and intronic conserved noncoding sequence 3 regions. Furthermore, PPARα and PPARγ agonists, together with TGF-β, more strongly inhibited the expression of all three DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) (DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b) in activated CD4(+) T cells. These results demonstrate that PPARα and PPARγ agonists together with TGF-β elicit Foxp3 DNA demethylation through potent downregulation of DNMTs and induce potent and stable Foxp3 expression, resulting in the generation of functional iTregs. Moreover, trichostatin A and retinoic acid enhanced the generation of iTregs synergistically with PPARα and PPARγ agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Lei
- Department of Bioregulatory Medicine, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime, Japan
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