1
|
Zhao H, Zhao S, Wang S, Liu Y. Human β-defensins: The multi-functional natural peptide. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 227:116451. [PMID: 39059771 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The increasing threat of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic microorganisms and the urgent demand for new antibiotics require immediate attention. Antimicrobial peptides exhibit effectiveness against microorganisms, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. The discovery of human β-defensins represents a major milestone in biomedical research, opening new avenues for scientific investigation into the innate immune system and its resistance mechanisms against pathogenic microorganisms. Multiple defensins present a promising alternative in the context of antibiotic abuse. However, obstacles to the practical application of defensins as anti-infective therapies persist due to the unique properties of human β-defensins themselves and serious pharmacological and technical challenges. To overcome these challenges, diverse delivery vehicles have been developed and progressively improved for the conjugation or encapsulation of human β-defensins. This review briefly introduces the biology of human β-defensins, focusing on their multistage structure and diverse functions. It also discusses several heterologous systems for producing human β-defensins, various delivery systems created for these peptides, and patent applications related to their utilization, concluding with a summary of current challenges and potential solutions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haile Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock Jointly Constructed by Ministry and Province, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, 24 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010020, China
| | - Shuli Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock Jointly Constructed by Ministry and Province, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, 24 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010020, China
| | - Simeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock Jointly Constructed by Ministry and Province, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, 24 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010020, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock Jointly Constructed by Ministry and Province, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, 24 Zhaojun Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010020, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Alenezi H, Parnell G, Schibeci S, Ozkan J, Willcox M, White AJR, Carnt N. Ocular surface immune transcriptome and tear cytokines in corneal infection patients. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1346821. [PMID: 38694515 PMCID: PMC11061372 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1346821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Microbial keratitis is one of the leading causes of blindness globally. An overactive immune response during an infection can exacerbate damage, causing corneal opacities and vision loss. This study aimed to identify the differentially expressed genes between corneal infection patients and healthy volunteers within the cornea and conjunctiva and elucidate the contributing pathways to these conditions' pathogenesis. Moreover, it compared the corneal and conjunctival transcriptomes in corneal-infected patients to cytokine levels in tears. Methods Corneal and conjunctival swabs were collected from seven corneal infection patients and three healthy controls under topical anesthesia. RNA from seven corneal infection patients and three healthy volunteers were analyzed by RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). Tear proteins were extracted from Schirmer strips via acetone precipitation from 38 cases of corneal infection and 14 healthy controls. The cytokines and chemokines IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL8 (IL-8), CX3CL1, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), IL-17A, and IL-23 were measured using an antibody bead assay. Results A total of 512 genes were found to be differentially expressed in infected corneas compared to healthy corneas, with 508 being upregulated and four downregulated (fold-change (FC) <-2 or > 2 and adjusted p <0.01). For the conjunctiva, 477 were upregulated, and 3 were downregulated (FC <-3 or ≥ 3 and adjusted p <0.01). There was a significant overlap in cornea and conjunctiva gene expression in patients with corneal infections. The genes were predominantly associated with immune response, regulation of angiogenesis, and apoptotic signaling pathways. The most highly upregulated gene was CXCL8 (which codes for IL-8 protein). In patients with corneal infections, the concentration of IL-8 protein in tears was relatively higher in patients compared to healthy controls but did not show statistical significance. Conclusions During corneal infection, many genes were upregulated, with most of them being associated with immune response, regulation of angiogenesis, and apoptotic signaling. The findings may facilitate the development of treatments for corneal infections that can dampen specific aspects of the immune response to reduce scarring and preserve sight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heba Alenezi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences in Al-Kharj, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Grant Parnell
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen Schibeci
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jerome Ozkan
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew J. R. White
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicole Carnt
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Latifi-Navid H, Barzegar Behrooz A, Jamehdor S, Davari M, Latifinavid M, Zolfaghari N, Piroozmand S, Taghizadeh S, Bourbour M, Shemshaki G, Latifi-Navid S, Arab SS, Soheili ZS, Ahmadieh H, Sheibani N. Construction of an Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration Diagnostic and Therapeutic Molecular Network Using Multi-Layer Network Analysis, a Fuzzy Logic Model, and Deep Learning Techniques: Are Retinal and Brain Neurodegenerative Disorders Related? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1555. [PMID: 38004422 PMCID: PMC10674956 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is a leading cause of irreversible visual impairment in the elderly. The current management of nAMD is limited and involves regular intravitreal administration of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF). However, the effectiveness of these treatments is limited by overlapping and compensatory pathways leading to unresponsiveness to anti-VEGF treatments in a significant portion of nAMD patients. Therefore, a system view of pathways involved in pathophysiology of nAMD will have significant clinical value. The aim of this study was to identify proteins, miRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), various metabolites, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with a significant role in the pathogenesis of nAMD. To accomplish this goal, we conducted a multi-layer network analysis, which identified 30 key genes, six miRNAs, and four lncRNAs. We also found three key metabolites that are common with AMD, Alzheimer's disease (AD) and schizophrenia. Moreover, we identified nine key SNPs and their related genes that are common among AMD, AD, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson's disease (PD). Thus, our findings suggest that there exists a connection between nAMD and the aforementioned neurodegenerative disorders. In addition, our study also demonstrates the effectiveness of using artificial intelligence, specifically the LSTM network, a fuzzy logic model, and genetic algorithms, to identify important metabolites in complex metabolic pathways to open new avenues for the design and/or repurposing of drugs for nAMD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Latifi-Navid
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Amir Barzegar Behrooz
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba College of Medicine, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada;
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1416634793, Iran
| | - Saleh Jamehdor
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan 6517838636, Iran;
| | - Maliheh Davari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
| | - Masoud Latifinavid
- Department of Mechatronic Engineering, University of Turkish Aeronautical Association, 06790 Ankara, Turkey;
| | - Narges Zolfaghari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
| | - Somayeh Piroozmand
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
| | - Sepideh Taghizadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Mahsa Bourbour
- Department of Biotechnology, Alzahra University, Tehran 1993893973, Iran;
| | - Golnaz Shemshaki
- Department of Studies in Zoology, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysore 570005, India;
| | - Saeid Latifi-Navid
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil 5619911367, Iran;
| | - Seyed Shahriar Arab
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 1411713116, Iran;
| | - Zahra-Soheila Soheili
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
| | - Hamid Ahmadieh
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Research Institute for Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1666673111, Iran;
| | - Nader Sheibani
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu L, Yin M, Gao J, Yu C, Lin J, Wu A, Zhu J, Xu C, Liu X. Intestinal Barrier Function in the Pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:452-458. [PMID: 36643028 PMCID: PMC9817057 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. The mechanisms involved in NAFLD onset are complicated and multifactorial. Recent literature has indicated that altered intestinal barrier function is related to the occurrence and progression of liver disease. The intestinal barrier is important for absorbing nutrients and electrolytes and for defending against toxins and antigens in the enteric environment. Major mechanisms by which the intestinal barrier influences the development of NAFLD involve the altered epithelial layer, decreased intracellular junction integrity, and increased intestinal barrier permeability. Increased intestinal permeability leads to luminal dysbiosis and allows the translocation of pathogenic bacteria and metabolites into the liver, inducing inflammation, immune response, and hepatocyte injury in NAFLD. Although research has been directed to NAFLD in recent decades, the pathophysiological changes in NAFLD initiation and progression are still not completely understood, and the therapeutic targets remain limited. A deeper understanding on the correlation between NAFLD pathogenesis and intestinal barrier regulation must be attained. Therefore, in this review, the components of the intestinal barrier and their respective functions and disruptions during the progression of NAFLD are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chunfang Xu
- Correspondence to: Xiaolin Liu and Chunfang Xu, Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4560-7589 (XL) and https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5648-3003 (CX). Tel/Fax: +86-512-65223637, E-mail: (XL) and (CX)
| | - Xiaolin Liu
- Correspondence to: Xiaolin Liu and Chunfang Xu, Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4560-7589 (XL) and https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5648-3003 (CX). Tel/Fax: +86-512-65223637, E-mail: (XL) and (CX)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Host Defence Peptides: A Potent Alternative to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance in the Era of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11040475. [PMID: 35453226 PMCID: PMC9032040 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11040475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the greatest challenges facing the medical community today is the ever-increasing trajectory of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which is being compounded by the decrease in our antimicrobial armamentarium. From their initial discovery to the current day, antibiotics have seen an exponential increase in their usage, from medical to agricultural use. Benefits aside, this has led to an exponential increase in AMR, with the fear that over 10 million lives are predicted to be lost by 2050, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). As such, medical researchers are turning their focus to discovering novel alternatives to antimicrobials, one being Host Defence Peptides (HDPs). These small cationic peptides have shown great efficacy in being used as an antimicrobial therapy for currently resistant microbial variants. With the sudden emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 variant and the subsequent global pandemic, the great versatility and potential use of HDPs as an alternative to conventional antibiotics in treating as well as preventing the spread of COVID-19 has been reviewed. Thus, to allow the reader to have a full understanding of the multifaceted therapeutic use of HDPs, this literature review shall cover the association between COVID-19 and AMR whilst discussing and evaluating the use of HDPs as an answer to antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Collapse
|
6
|
Titi-Lartey O, Mohammed I, Amoaku WM. Toll-Like Receptor Signalling Pathways and the Pathogenesis of Retinal Diseases. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022; 2:850394. [PMID: 38983565 PMCID: PMC11182157 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2022.850394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that the pathogenesis of retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have a significant chronic inflammatory component. A vital part of the inflammatory cascade is through the activation of pattern recognition receptors (PRR) such as toll-like receptors (TLR). Here, we reviewed the past and current literature to ascertain the cumulative knowledge regarding the effect of TLRs on the development and progression of retinal diseases. There is burgeoning research demonstrating the relationship between TLRs and risk of developing retinal diseases, utilising a range of relevant disease models and a few large clinical investigations. The literature confirms that TLRs are involved in the development and progression of retinal diseases such as DR, AMD, and ischaemic retinopathy. Genetic polymorphisms in TLRs appear to contribute to the risk of developing AMD and DR. However, there are some inconsistencies in the published reports which require further elucidation. The evidence regarding TLR associations in retinal dystrophies including retinitis pigmentosa is limited. Based on the current evidence relating to the role of TLRs, combining anti-VEGF therapies with TLR inhibition may provide a longer-lasting treatment in some retinal vascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Winfried M. Amoaku
- Academic Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Layunta E, Buey B, Mesonero JE, Latorre E. Crosstalk Between Intestinal Serotonergic System and Pattern Recognition Receptors on the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:748254. [PMID: 34819919 PMCID: PMC8607755 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.748254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Disruption of the microbiota-gut-brain axis results in a wide range of pathologies that are affected, from the brain to the intestine. Gut hormones released by enteroendocrine cells to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are important signaling molecules within this axis. In the search for the language that allows microbiota to communicate with the gut and the brain, serotonin seems to be the most important mediator. In recent years, serotonin has emerged as a key neurotransmitter in the gut-brain axis because it largely contributes to both GI and brain physiology. In addition, intestinal microbiota are crucial in serotonin signaling, which gives more relevance to the role of the serotonin as an important mediator in microbiota-host interactions. Despite the numerous investigations focused on the gut-brain axis and the pathologies associated, little is known regarding how serotonin can mediate in the microbiota-gut-brain axis. In this review, we will mainly discuss serotonergic system modulation by microbiota as a pathway of communication between intestinal microbes and the body on the microbiota-gut-brain axis, and we explore novel therapeutic approaches for GI diseases and mental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Layunta
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Berta Buey
- Departamento de Farmacología, Fisiología y Medicina Legal y Forense, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jose Emilio Mesonero
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Departamento de Farmacología, Fisiología y Medicina Legal y Forense, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza–CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Eva Latorre
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza–CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
Toll like receptors (TLRs) are the most studied pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) as they connect the innate to the acquired immune response. To date, there are ten human TLRs which are expressed either on the plasma membrane or on the endosomes. TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6 and TLR10 are plasma membrane TLRs that recognise extracellular components of pathogens, whereas TLR3, TLR7, TLR8 and TLR9 are located on endosomes where they recognise foreign nucleic acids. Of these TLRs, TLR10 is the latest human TLR to be discovered and its function and ligands are still unclear. TLR10 is the only known member of TLR family that can elicit anti-inflammatory effect. TLR10 can inhibit other TLRs by competing with stimulatory TLRs, dimerising with TLR1, TLR2 and TLR6, and by inducing PI3K/Akt to produce IL-1Ra. There is controversy on the function of TLR10 as an anti-inflammatory TLR as initial studies on TLR10 revealed it to promote inflammation. Herein, we review the detailed functions of TLR10 in immunity and give an account of how and when TLR10 can act on both sides of the inflammatory spectrum.
Collapse
|
9
|
Hosny AEDS, El-Bazza ZED, Ramadan MA, Shafik MA, Shafeek MA, Khattab RA. Expression levels of pro-inflammatory interleukin-8 and certain antimicrobial peptides in concurrent with bacterial conjunctivitis. Int J Ophthalmol 2021; 14:666-675. [PMID: 34012880 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2021.05.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To detect the quantitative expression levels of the pro-inflammatory interleukin-8 (IL8), antimicrobial peptides human beta defense-2 (HBD2), and human beta defense-3 (HBD3) genes in bacterial conjunctivitis. METHODS The human conjunctival epithelial cells were obtained using the impression cytology technique from healthy controls and patients. The genes expression levels were determined utilizing a reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The contribution of causative agent type, the number of isolates and severity of clinical features, in the increase of genes expression was also determined. RESULTS The RT-qPCR showed that IL8, HBD2, and HBD3 expression increased in bacterial conjunctivitis as compared to healthy control (P<0.001). In gram-negative bacterial conjunctivitis, HBD2 was highly up-regulated (P<0.001) compared to other types of bacterial conjunctivitis. In mixed bacterial conjunctivitis, a direct correlation between HBD2 up-regulation and HBD3 up-regulation was observed (P<0.05). The severity of clinical features was related to the up-regulation of IL8 and HBD2 (P<0.05). CONCLUSION IL8, HBD2, and HBD3 are immune-effectors in infectious conjunctivitis. HBD2 is active during different bacterial conjunctivitis but is more released with gram-negative bacteria compared to gram-positive bacteria. HBD3 is an obvious defender in different bacterial conjunctivitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alaa El-Dien Shawky Hosny
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr Al-Aini 11562, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Zeinab El-Demerdash El-Bazza
- Drug Radiation Research Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo 9621, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Abdelhalim Ramadan
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr Al-Aini 11562, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maha Ahmed Shafik
- Drug Radiation Research Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo 9621, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Ahmed Shafeek
- Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of medicine, AL-Azhar University, Cairo 11754, Egypt
| | - Rania Abdelmonem Khattab
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr Al-Aini 11562, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tummanapalli SS, Willcox MD. Antimicrobial resistance of ocular microbes and the role of antimicrobial peptides. Clin Exp Optom 2021; 104:295-307. [PMID: 32924208 DOI: 10.1111/cxo.13125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Isolation of antimicrobial-resistant microbes from ocular infections may be becoming more frequent. Infections caused by these microbes can be difficult to treat and lead to poor outcomes. However, new therapies are being developed which may help improve clinical outcomes. This review examines recent reports on the isolation of antibiotic-resistant microbes from ocular infections. In addition, an overview of the development of some new antibiotic therapies is given. The recent literature regarding antibiotic use and resistance, isolation of antibiotic-resistant microbes from ocular infections and the development of potential new antibiotics that can be used to treat these infections was reviewed. Ocular microbial infections are a global public health issue as they can result in vision loss which compromises quality of life. Approximately 70 per cent of ocular infections are caused by bacteria including Chlamydia trachomatis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and fungi such as Candida albicans, Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp. Resistance to first-line antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones and azoles has increased, with resistance of S. aureus isolates from the USA to fluoroquinolones reaching 32 per cent of isolates and 35 per cent being methicillin-resistant (MRSA). Lower levels of MRSA (seven per cent) were isolated by an Australian study. Antimicrobial peptides, which are broad-spectrum alternatives to antibiotics, have been tested as possible new drugs. Several have shown promise in animal models of keratitis, especially treating P. aeruginosa, S. aureus or C. albicans infections. Reports of increasing resistance of ocular isolates to mainstay antibiotics are a concern, and there is evidence that for ocular surface disease this resistance translates into worse clinical outcomes. New antibiotics are being developed, but not by large pharmaceutical companies and mostly in university research laboratories and smaller biotech companies. Antimicrobial peptides show promise in treating keratitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Dp Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Eshac Y, Redfern RL, Aakalu VK. The Role of Endogenous Antimicrobial Peptides in Modulating Innate Immunity of the Ocular Surface in Dry Eye Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E721. [PMID: 33450870 PMCID: PMC7828360 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The ocular surface has the challenging responsibility of maintaining a clear moist refractive surface while protecting the eye from exogenous pathogens and the environment. Homeostasis of the ocular surface, including its innate immune components, is altered in ocular surface disease states. In this review, we focus on antimicrobial peptides and the role they play in the immune response of the ocular surface during healthy states and dry eye diseases. Antimicrobial peptides are of special interest to the study of the ocular surface because of their various roles that include microbial threat neutralization, wound healing, and immune modulation. This review explores current literature on antimicrobial peptides in ocular surface diseases and discusses their therapeutic potential in ocular surface diseases and dry eye.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youssof Eshac
- Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21131, Egypt;
| | - Rachel L. Redfern
- The Ocular Surface Institute, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA;
| | - Vinay Kumar Aakalu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Su SB, Tao L, Deng ZP, Chen W, Qin SY, Jiang HX. TLR10: Insights, controversies and potential utility as a therapeutic target. Scand J Immunol 2020; 93:e12988. [PMID: 33047375 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Toll-like receptor (TLR) family acts as a bridge connecting innate and acquired immunity. TLR10 remains one of the least understood members of this family. Some studies have examined TLR10 ligands, dimerization of TLR10 with other TLRs, and downstream signalling pathways and functions, but they have often arrived at conflicting conclusions. TLR10 can induce the production of proinflammatory cytokines by forming homodimers with itself or heterodimers with TLR1 or other TLRs, but it can also inhibit proinflammatory responses when co-expressed with TLR2 or potentially other TLRs. Mutations in the Toll/Interleukin 1 receptor (TIR) domain of TLR10 alter its signalling activity. Polymorphisms in the TLR10 gene can change the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory responses and hence modulate the susceptibility to infection and autoimmune diseases. Understanding the full range of TLR10 ligands and functions may allow the receptor to be exploited as a therapeutic target in inflammation- or immune-related diseases. Here, we summarize recent findings on the pro- and anti-inflammatory roles of TLR10 and the molecular pathways in which it is implicated. Our goal is to pave the way for future studies of the only orphan TLR thought to have strong potential as a target in the treatment of inflammation-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Si-Biao Su
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lin Tao
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Ze-Ping Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Department of Academic Affairs, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shan-Yu Qin
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Hai-Xing Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mohammed I, Mohanty D, Said DG, Barik MR, Reddy MM, Alsaadi A, Das S, Dua HS, Mittal R. Antimicrobial peptides in human corneal tissue of patients with fungal keratitis. Br J Ophthalmol 2020; 105:1172-1177. [PMID: 32855162 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-316329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungal keratitis (FK) is the leading cause of unilateral blindness in the developing world. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been shown to play an important role on human ocular surface (OS) during bacterial, viral and protozoan infections. In this study, our aim was to profile a spectrum of AMPs in corneal tissue from patients with FK during the active pase of infection and after healing. METHODS OS samples were collected from patients at presentation by impression cytology and scraping. Corneal button specimens were collected from patients undergoing therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty for management of severe FK or healed keratitis. Gene expression of human beta-defensin (HBD)-1, -2, -3 and -9, S100A7, and LL-37 was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS Messenger RNA expression (mRNA) for all AMPs was shown to be significantly upregulated in FK samples. The levels of HBD-1 and -2 mRNA were found to be elevated in 18/20 FK samples. Whereas mRNA for HBD-3 and S100A7 was upregulated in 11/20 and HBD9 was increased in 15/20 FK samples. LL-37 mRNA showed moderate upregulation in 7/20 FK samples compared with controls. In healed scar samples, mRNA of all AMPs was found to be low and matching the levels in controls. CONCLUSION AMP expression is a consistent feature of FK, but not all AMPs are equally expressed. HBD-1 and -2 are most consistently expressed and LL-37 the least, suggesting some specificity of AMP expression related to FK. These results will help to identify HBD sequence templates for designing FK-specific peptides to test for therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Imran Mohammed
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham United Kingdom
| | - Debasmita Mohanty
- Kanupriya Dalmia Ophthalmic Pathology Laboratory, L V Prasad Eye Institute, MTC Campus, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Dalia G Said
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham United Kingdom.,Ophthalmology Department, Nottingham University Hospitals, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham United Kingdom
| | - Manas Ranjan Barik
- Ocular Microbiology Service, L V Prasad Eye Institute, MTC Campus, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Mamatha M Reddy
- Ocular Microbiology Service, L V Prasad Eye Institute, MTC Campus, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Ahmed Alsaadi
- Ophthalmology Department, Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sujata Das
- Cornea and Anterior Segment Service, L V Prasad Eye Institute, MTC Campus, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Harminder Singh Dua
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham United Kingdom .,Ophthalmology Department, Nottingham University Hospitals, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham United Kingdom
| | - Ruchi Mittal
- Kanupriya Dalmia Ophthalmic Pathology Laboratory, L V Prasad Eye Institute, MTC Campus, Bhubaneswar, India
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mohammed I, Kulkarni B, Faraj LA, Abbas A, Dua HS, King AJ. Profiling ocular surface responses to preserved and non-preserved topical glaucoma medications: A 2-year randomized evaluation study. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2020; 48:973-982. [PMID: 32564453 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of topical glaucoma medications has been reported to cause ocular surface (OS) discomfort and inflammation. This study explores the profile of inflammatory cytokines and OS symptoms induced in response to preserved and non-preserved drops. METHODS Prospective, randomized evaluation on 36 treatment-naïve patients over 24 months of three differently preserved glaucoma drop preparations: Preservative-free (PF), polyquad (PQ) and benzalkonium chloride (BAK). Study participants were evaluated at baseline and then at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months while on medication. At each visit, participants completed the OS disease index (OSDI) questionnaire, had basal tear sampling and impression cytology (IC) of the conjunctival epithelium. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to measure the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12A, IL-12B, IL-17A, IL-1β and tumour necrosis factor-α] in the IC samples. Corresponding protein expression of cytokines in tear samples was assessed by the Becton-Dickinson cytometric bead arrays. RESULTS Compared to PF and PQ groups, mRNA and protein expression of IL-6, IL-8 and IL-1β increased in samples from the BAK group in a time-dependent fashion, whereas all other cytokines showed a non-significant increase. In the BAK group, there was a strong correlation between OSDI and the levels of IC/IL-1β (r = .832, R2 = .692 and P = .040); IC/IL-10 (r = .925, R2 = .856 and P = .008) and tear/IL-1β (r = .899, R2 = .808 and P = .014). CONCLUSIONS BAK-preserved topical drops stimulate a sterile inflammatory response on the OS within 3 months which is maintained thereafter, whereas PF-drops and PQ-preserved drops showed no significant OS inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Imran Mohammed
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Bina Kulkarni
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Lana A Faraj
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ali Abbas
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Harminder S Dua
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Anthony J King
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Roberts SA, Brabin L, Diallo S, Gies S, Nelson A, Stewart C, Swinkels DW, Geurts-Moespot AJ, Kazienga A, Ouedraogo S, D'Alessandro U, Tinto H, Brabin BJ. Mucosal lactoferrin response to genital tract infections is associated with iron and nutritional biomarkers in young Burkinabé women. Eur J Clin Nutr 2019; 73:1464-1472. [PMID: 31168085 PMCID: PMC6842079 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-019-0444-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES The iron-binding affinity of vaginal lactoferrin (Lf) reduces iron available to genital pathogens. We describe host reproductive, nutritional, infection and iron biomarker profiles affecting vaginal Lf concentration in young nulliparous and primigravid women in Burkina Faso. SUBJECTS/METHODS Vaginal eluates from women who had participated in a randomized, controlled periconceptional iron supplementation trial were used to measure Lf using a competitive double-sandwich ELISA. For this analysis samples from both trial arms were combined and pregnant and non-pregnant cohorts compared. Following randomization Lf was measured after 18 months (end assessment) for women remaining non-pregnant, and at two antenatal visits for those becoming pregnant. Associations between log Lf levels and demographic, anthropometric, infection and iron biomarker variables were assessed using linear mixed models. RESULTS Lf samples were available for 712 non-pregnant women at end assessment and for 303 women seen at an antenatal visit. Lf concentrations of pregnant women were comparable to those of non-pregnant, sexually active women. Lf concentration increased with mid-upper-arm circumference, (P = 0.047), body mass index (P = 0.018), Trichomonas vaginalis (P < 0.001) infection, bacterial vaginosis (P < 0.001), serum C-reactive protein (P = 0.048) and microbiota community state types III/IV. Adjusted Lf concentration was positively associated with serum hepcidin (P = 0.047), serum ferritin (P = 0.018) and total body iron stores (P = 0.042). There was evidence that some women maintained persistently high or low Lf concentrations from before, and through, pregnancy. CONCLUSION Lf concentrations increased with genital infection, higher BMI, MUAC, body iron stores and hepcidin, suggesting nutritional and iron status influence homeostatic mechanisms controlling vaginal Lf responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S A Roberts
- Centre for Biostatistics, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - L Brabin
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - S Diallo
- Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro (URCN/IRSS), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - S Gies
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Prince Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium and Medical Mission Institute, Würzburg, Germany
| | - A Nelson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Northumbria, Northumberland Building, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - C Stewart
- Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - D W Swinkels
- Department of Laboratory Medicine (TLM 830), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Hepcidinanalysis.com., Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A J Geurts-Moespot
- Department of Laboratory Medicine (TLM 830), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A Kazienga
- Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro (URCN/IRSS), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - S Ouedraogo
- Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro (URCN/IRSS), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - U D'Alessandro
- Medical Research Council Unit (MRC), Fajara, The Gambia.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - H Tinto
- Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro (URCN/IRSS), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - B J Brabin
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK. .,Global Child Health Group, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Henrick BM, Yao XD, Zahoor MA, Abimiku A, Osawe S, Rosenthal KL. TLR10 Senses HIV-1 Proteins and Significantly Enhances HIV-1 Infection. Front Immunol 2019; 10:482. [PMID: 30930906 PMCID: PMC6430187 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a crucial role in innate immunity and provide a first line of host defense against invading pathogens. Of the identified human TLRs, TLR10 remains an orphan receptor whose ligands and functions are poorly understood. In the present study, we sought to evaluate the level of TLR10 expression in breast milk (BM) and explore its potential function in the context of HIV-1 infection. We evaluated HIV-1-infected (Nigerian: n = 40) and uninfected (Nigerian: n = 27; Canadian: n = 15) BM samples for TLR expression (i.e., TLR10, TLR2, and TLR1) and report here that HIV-1-infected BM from Nigerian women showed significantly higher levels of TLR10, TLR1, and TLR2 expression. Moreover, the level of TLR10 expression in HIV-1-infected BM was upregulated by over 100-fold compared to that from uninfected control women. In vitro studies using TZMbl cells demonstrated that TLR10 overexpression contributes to higher HIV-1 infection and proviral DNA integration. Conversely, TLR10 inhibition significantly decreased HIV-1 infection. Notably, HIV-1 gp41 was recognized as a TLR10 ligand, leading to the induction of IL-8 and NF-κBα activation. The identification of a TLR10 ligand and its involvement in HIV-1 infection enhances our current understanding of HIV-1 replication and may assist in the development of improved future therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bethany M Henrick
- Evolve Biosystems, Davis, CA, United States.,Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Xiao-Dan Yao
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Muhammad Atif Zahoor
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Sophia Osawe
- Institue of Human Virology-Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Kenneth L Rosenthal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mohammed I, Said DG, Dua HS. Human antimicrobial peptides in ocular surface defense. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 61:1-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
|
18
|
Zhang L, Su Z, Zhang Z, Lin J, Li DQ, Pflugfelder SC. Effects of azithromycin on gene expression profiles of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators in the eyelid margin and conjunctiva of patients with meibomian gland disease. JAMA Ophthalmol 2016. [PMID: 26204109 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2015.2326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Topical application of azithromycin suppresses expression of proinflammatory mediators while restoring transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) levels as evaluated by eyelid margin and conjunctival impression cytology. OBJECTIVE To explore the effects of azithromycin therapy on expression of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators in meibomian gland disease (MGD). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Case-control study performed in a clinic setting from August 17, 2010, to December 31, 2010. Sixteen patients with posterior blepharitis and conjunctival inflammation due to MGD were treated with azithromycin, 1%, drops for 4 weeks. Impression cytology of the lower eyelid margin and tarsal conjunctiva to measure cytokine expression by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction as well as tear collection to measure matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) activity were performed once in 8 asymptomatic healthy control participants and 5 times in the 16 symptomatic patients (every 2 weeks for 8 weeks), before, during, and after azithromycin treatment. EXPOSURE Azithromycin, 1%, drops for 4 weeks. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Cytokine expression in the eyelid margin and conjunctiva, and MMP-9 activity in tears. RESULTS Compared with a 1-time measurement of 8 healthy participants, among 16 symptomatic patients, the mean (SD; 95% CI) fold change of expression of proinflammatory mediators interleukin 1β (IL-1β), IL-8, and MMP-9 increased to 13.26 (4.33; 11.14-15.38; P < .001), 9.38 (3.37; 7.73-11.03; P < .001), and 13.49 (4.92; 11.08-15.90; P < .001), respectively, in conjunctival cells and to 11.75 (3.96; 9.81-13.69; P < .001), 9.31 (3.28; 7.70-10.92; P < .001), and 11.52 (3.50; 9.81-13.24; P < .001), respectively, in the eyelid margin of patients with MGD. In contrast, the mean (SD; 96% CI) fold change of expression of TGF-β1 messenger RNA (mRNA) decreased to 0.58 (0.25; 0.46-0.70; P = .02) and 0.63 (0.14; 0.56-0.70; P = .02) in conjunctival and eyelid margin cells, respectively, of patients with MGD. Azithromycin, 1%, caused a change in the expression pattern of these mediators toward normal levels during 4 weeks of treatment. Levels of IL-1β, IL-8, and MMP-9 mRNA remained suppressed, although they rebounded toward pretreatment values 4 weeks after azithromycin withdrawal. Expression of TGF-β1 increased during treatment and remained at levels similar to the healthy controls after drug withdrawal. Change in tear MMP-9 activity was similar to the pattern of MMP-9 transcripts. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE While the study did not control for potential confounding factors over time independent of the intervention that may have contributed to the results, topical azithromycin suppressed expression of proinflammatory mediators and increased expression of TGF-β1 to normal levels. Increased TGF-β1 expression may contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity of azithromycin in MGD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lili Zhang
- Ocular Surface Center, Cullen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Zhitao Su
- Ocular Surface Center, Cullen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Zongduan Zhang
- Ocular Surface Center, Cullen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jing Lin
- Ocular Surface Center, Cullen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - De-Quan Li
- Ocular Surface Center, Cullen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Stephen C Pflugfelder
- Ocular Surface Center, Cullen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Unexpected Roles for Toll-Like Receptor 4 and TRIF in Intraocular Infection with Gram-Positive Bacteria. Infect Immun 2015. [PMID: 26195555 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00502-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation caused by infection with Gram-positive bacteria is typically initiated by interactions with Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2). Endophthalmitis, an infection and inflammation of the posterior segment of the eye, can lead to vision loss when initiated by a virulent microbial pathogen. Endophthalmitis caused by Bacillus cereus develops as acute inflammation with infiltrating neutrophils, and vision loss is potentially catastrophic. Residual inflammation observed during B. cereus endophthalmitis in TLR2(-/-) mice led us to investigate additional innate pathways that may trigger intraocular inflammation. We first hypothesized that intraocular inflammation during B. cereus endophthalmitis would be controlled by MyD88- and TRIF-mediated signaling, since MyD88 and TRIF are the major adaptor molecules for all bacterial TLRs. In MyD88(-/-) and TRIF(-/-) mice, we observed significantly less intraocular inflammation than in eyes from infected C57BL/6J mice, suggesting an important role for these TLR adaptors in B. cereus endophthalmitis. These results led to a second hypothesis, that TLR4, the only TLR that signals through both MyD88 and TRIF signaling pathways, contributed to inflammation during B. cereus endophthalmitis. Surprisingly, B. cereus-infected TLR4(-/-) eyes also had significantly less intraocular inflammation than infected C57BL/6J eyes, indicating an important role for TLR4 in B. cereus endophthalmitis. Taken together, our results suggest that TLR4, TRIF, and MyD88 are important components of the intraocular inflammatory response observed in experimental B. cereus endophthalmitis, identifying a novel innate immune interaction for B. cereus and for this disease.
Collapse
|
20
|
Brandt CR. Peptide therapeutics for treating ocular surface infections. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2014; 30:691-9. [PMID: 25250986 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2014.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial pathogens-bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites-are significant causes of blindness, particularly in developing countries. For bacterial and some viral infections a number of antimicrobial drugs are available for therapy but there are fewer available for use in treating fungal and parasitic keratitis. There are also problems with current antimicrobials, such as limited efficacy and the presence of drug-resistant microbes. Thus, there is a need to develop additional drugs. Nature has given us an example of 1 potential source of new antimicrobials: antimicrobial peptides and proteins that are either present in bodily fluids and tissues constitutively or are induced upon infection. Given the nature of peptides, topical applications are the most likely use to be successful and this is ideal for treating keratitis. Such peptides would also be active against drug-resistant pathogens and might act synergistically if used in combination therapy. Hundreds of peptides with antimicrobial properties have been isolated or synthesized but only a handful have been tested against ocular pathogens and even fewer have been tested in animal models. This review summarizes the currently available information on the use of peptides to treat keratitis, outlines some of the problems that have been identified, and discusses future studies that will be needed. Most of the peptides that have been tested have shown activity at concentrations that do not warrant further development, but 1 or 2 have promising activity raising the possibility that peptides can be developed to treat keratitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Curtis R Brandt
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health , Madison, Wisconsin
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bogefors J, Kvarnhammar AM, Millrud CR, Georén SK, Cardell LO. LEAP-2, LL-37 and RNase7 in tonsillar tissue: downregulated expression in seasonal allergic rhinitis. Pathog Dis 2014; 72:55-60. [PMID: 24821514 DOI: 10.1111/2049-632x.12183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2013] [Revised: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
In the upper airway, the production of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) protects against bacteria, viruses and fungi. Previous investigations have revealed downregulated expression of AMPs in different manifestations of allergic disease. In this study, we examined the expression of LL-37, Ribonuclease7 (RNase7) and Liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (LEAP-2) in tonsillar tissue and studied a possible relation to seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR). Tonsils, obtained from patients with SAR and nonallergic controls, were examined for the occurrence of LL-37, RNase7 and LEAP-2 with real-time RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Tonsillar mononuclear cells were cultured in presence or absence of LEAP-2 or LL-37 and analyzed for cytokine levels using ELISA. mRNA and protein for LL-37, RNase 7 and LEAP-2 were found in all tonsils. Immunohistochemistry revealed prominent staining for LL-37 and RNase7 in the tonsillar epithelium, whereas a moderate staining was seen with LEAP-2. Real-time RT-PCR showed a downregulation of RNase7 and LEAP-2 in the allergic as compared to the nonallergic group. Mononuclear cells cultured in presence of LEAP-2 or LL-37 demonstrated reduced levels of IL-10. The present study demonstrates the presence and function of LEAP-2, LL-37 and RNase7 in tonsils. Moreover, a downregulation of LEAP-2 and RNase7 is seen in SAR patients, indicating that allergic individuals may be more susceptible to respiratory tract infections due to an impaired antimicrobial defense.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesper Bogefors
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Allergy Research, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Skånes University Hospital, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Down-regulation of Toll-like receptor 7 expression in hepatitis-virus-related human hepatocellular carcinoma. Hum Pathol 2012; 44:534-41. [PMID: 23069256 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2012.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Revised: 06/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a pivotal role in innate immunity, controlling inflammatory responses, and further development of adaptive immunity. Hepatitis virus can establish chronic infection, and the associated inflammatory responses are important determinants of virus-associated liver damage. However, the contributions of the host immune system to chronic presence of virus are not clear in patients with hepatitis virus infection. Chronic inflammatory conditions caused by persistent hepatitis virus infections and interferon (IFN)-γ-related immunopathology are known to be related to carcinogenesis. To gain insight into the role of immune modulation in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we studied the expression of TLR7 in cancerous and non-cancerous liver tissue from 87 patients with HCC. Our results showed that TLR7 is significantly down-regulated in neoplastic hepatocytes (P < .001), especially in the patients with hepatitis B (n = 52) or C (n = 24) virus infection. We confirmed this decreased TLR7 expression by quantitative analysis of mRNA using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in 26 liver specimens of HCC patients. Using serial deletion analysis of the TLR7 promoter, a hepatocyte-specific regulatory region was found at nucleotides -156 to -98 in the TLR7 promoter. Furthermore, the effects of IFN-γ on TLR7 expression in a hepatoma cell line (HepG2) were investigated in vitro. We demonstrated that IFN-γ significantly decreased TLR7 promoter activity and expression in a dose-dependent manner. We thus propose that hepatitis virus induces down-regulation of TLR7 gene expression through IFN-γ, thereby modulating inflammatory signaling in hepatoma cells.
Collapse
|
23
|
Barabino S, Chen Y, Chauhan S, Dana R. Ocular surface immunity: homeostatic mechanisms and their disruption in dry eye disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2012; 31:271-85. [PMID: 22426080 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2012.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2011] [Revised: 02/28/2012] [Accepted: 02/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The tear film, lacrimal glands, corneal and conjunctival epithelia and Meibomian glands work together as a lacrimal functional unit (LFU) to preserve the integrity and function of the ocular surface. The integrity of this unit is necessary for the health and normal function of the eye and visual system. Nervous connections and systemic hormones are well known factors that maintain the homeostasis of the ocular surface. They control the response to internal and external stimuli. Our and others' studies show that immunological mechanisms also play a pivotal role in regulating the ocular surface environment. Our studies demonstrate how anti-inflammatory factors such as the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) in corneal cells, immature corneal resident antigen-presenting cells, and regulatory T cells play an active role in protecting the ocular surface. Dry eye disease (DED) affects millions of people worldwide and negatively influences the quality of life for patients. In its most severe forms, DED may lead to blindness. The etiology and pathogenesis of DED remain largely unclear. Nonetheless, in this review we summarize the role of the disruption of afferent and efferent immunoregulatory mechanisms that are responsible for the chronicity of the disease, its symptoms, and its clinical signs. We illustrate current anti-inflammatory treatments for DED and propose that prevention of the disruption of immunoregulatory mechanisms may represent a promising therapeutic strategy towards controlling ocular surface inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Barabino
- Clinica Oculistica, Department of Neurosciences, Ophthalmology and Genetics, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 5, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|