1
|
Flora A, Jepsen R, Pham J, Frew JW. Alterations to the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Serum Proteome with Spleen Tyrosine Kinase Antagonism: Proteomic Results from a Phase 2 Clinical Trial. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:786-793.e1. [PMID: 37879397 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a disease in great need of novel therapies. Given the heterogeneous nature of the disease and the variable response to therapies, biomarkers are essential to predict response to therapies and increase our understanding of disease pathogenesis. Our recent phase 2 clinical trial of spleen tyrosine kinase antagonism using fostamatinib in hidradenitis suppurativa demonstrated a 75% clinical response, with the greatest benefit in individuals with elevated serum inflammation and IgG. In this study, we present results of an in-depth serum proteomic analysis in this patient cohort identifying downregulation of IL-12B as well as B-cell-associated proteins CCL19 and CCL20 and IFN-γ-mediated proteins CXCL10 and CX3CL1. Clinical responders demonstrated greater reduction in serum IL-17A, IL-6, IL-8, and CX3CL1 compared with clinical nonresponders. Baseline levels of CCL28 were associated with clinical response to fostamatinib therapy at week 12. Overall, this suggests that fostamatinib, by targeting B-cell receptor and Fc receptor activity in B cells, monocytes, and macrophages, has a significant molecular impact on the inflammatory serum proteome of hidradenitis suppurativa. In addition, potential therapeutic biomarkers may aid in patient selection for targeted therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Flora
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sidney, Kensington, Australia
| | - Rebecca Jepsen
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, Australia
| | - James Pham
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sidney, Kensington, Australia
| | - John W Frew
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sidney, Kensington, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Heidari A, Ghane Y, Heidari N, Sadeghi S, Goodarzi A. A systematic review of Janus kinase inhibitors and spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitors for Hidradenitis suppurativa treatment. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 127:111435. [PMID: 38150881 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS AND AIMS Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a challenging skin disease with an underlying inflammatory process. Substantial progress has been made in our understanding of HS over the last few years, with the advancement of novel treatment approaches. The current systematic review aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) inhibitors in treating HS. METHOD A thorough systematic search was performed on PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Ovid Embase databases up to September 23th, 2023. Clinical studies published in English were included. RESULTS Our search yielded ten articles with a total of 165 patients treated with four types of JAK inhibitors (upadacitinib, povorcitinib, tofacitinib, and baricitinib) and one Syk inhibitor (fostamatinib). Upadacitinib, povorcitinib, and tofacitinib improved clinical outcomes, with a significant reduction in hidradenitis suppurativa clinical response (HiSCR) and abscess and inflammatory nodule count (AN count) during the treatment period. Also, these drugs are well tolerated in most HS patients with minimal adverse events (AEs). Moreover, baricitinib depicted an amelioration in signs and symptoms of HS in one case report. Also, fostamatinib exhibited favorable tolerability throughout a 12-week in moderate-to-severe HS patients. The remarkable clinical improvement, as assessed through HiSCR and hidradenitis suppurativa severity (IHS4), corresponded closely with serological indicators of inflammation following fostamatinib administration was achieved. CONCLUSION JAK and Syk inhibitors are potentially efficacious in managing moderate-to-severe HS since the proinflammatory cytokines are mediated by JAK and Syk signaling pathways. However, further research with a more rigorous examination is mandatory to evaluate such medication's long-term safety and efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Heidari
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Yekta Ghane
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nazila Heidari
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sara Sadeghi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasool Akram Medical Complex Clinical Research Development Center (RCRDC), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medicine, New York Health System, South Brooklyn Hospital, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | - Azadeh Goodarzi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasool Akram Medical Complex Clinical Research Development Center (RCRDC), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Krueger JG, Frew J, Jemec GBE, Kimball AB, Kirby B, Bechara FG, Navrazhina K, Prens E, Reich K, Cullen E, Wolk K. Hidradenitis suppurativa: new insights into disease mechanisms and an evolving treatment landscape. Br J Dermatol 2024; 190:149-162. [PMID: 37715694 DOI: 10.1093/bjd/ljad345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa, is a chronic disabling and debilitating inflammatory disease with a high unmet medical need. The prevalence of HS reported in most studies is 1-2%, although it is likely to be under-reported and estimates vary globally owing to variance in data collection methods, ethnicity, geographical location and under-diagnosis. HS is characterized by persistent, painful cutaneous nodules, abscesses and draining tunnels commonly affecting the axillary, anogenital, inguinal and perianal/gluteal areas. Over time, chronic uncontrolled inflammation results in irreversible tissue destruction and scarring. Although the pathophysiology of HS has not been fully elucidated, the tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-17 pathways have an important role, involving multiple cytokines. Currently, treatment options include topical medications; systemic therapies, including repeated and/or rotational courses of systemic antibiotics, retinoids and hormonal therapies; and various surgical procedures. The anti-TNF-α antibody adalimumab is currently the only biologic approved by both the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency for HS; however, its efficacy varies, with a clinical response reported in approximately 50% of patients in phase III trials. HS is a rapidly evolving field of discovery, with a diverse range of agents with distinct mechanisms of action currently being explored in clinical trials. Several other promising therapeutic targets have recently emerged, and agents targeting the IL-17 and Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways are the most advanced in ongoing or completed phase III clinical trials. Alongside limited therapeutic options, significant challenges remain in terms of diagnosis and disease management, with a need for better treatment outcomes. Other unmet needs include significant diagnostic delays, thus missing the therapeutic 'window of opportunity'; the lack of standardized outcome measures in clinical trials; and the lack of established, well-defined disease phenotypes and biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James G Krueger
- Laboratory of Investigative Dermatology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - John Frew
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gregor B E Jemec
- Department of Dermatology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
- Health Sciences Faculty, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alexa B Kimball
- Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian Kirby
- Charles Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Falk G Bechara
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kristina Navrazhina
- Laboratory of Investigative Dermatology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, New York, NY, USA
| | - Errol Prens
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, TheNetherlands
| | - Kristian Reich
- Translational Research in Inflammatory Skin Diseases, Institute for Health Care Research in Dermatology and Nursing, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
- MoonLake Immunotherapeutics AG, Zug, Switzerland
| | - Eva Cullen
- MoonLake Immunotherapeutics AG, Zug, Switzerland
| | - Kerstin Wolk
- Psoriasis Research and Treatment Centre, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology and Institute of Medical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Flora A, Jepsen R, Kozera EK, Woods JA, Cains GD, Radzieta M, Jensen SO, Malone M, Frew JW. Mast cells are upregulated in hidradenitis suppurativa tissue, associated with epithelialized tunnels and normalized by spleen tyrosine kinase antagonism. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e14894. [PMID: 37522746 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Mast cells have traditionally been associated with allergic inflammatory responses; however, they play important roles in cutaneous innate immunity and wound healing. The Hidradenitis Suppurativa tissue transcriptome is associated with alterations in innate immunity and wound healing-associated pathways; however, the role of mast cells in the disease is unexplored. We demonstrate that mast cell-associated gene expression (using whole tissue RNAseq) is upregulated, and in-silico cellular deconvolution identifies activated mast cells upregulated and resting mast cells downregulated in lesional tissue. Tryptase/Chymase positive mast cells (identified using IHC) localize adjacent to epithelialized tunnels, fibrotic regions of the dermis and at perivascular sites associated with Neutrophil Extracellular Trap formation and TNF-alpha production. Treatment with Spleen Tyrosine Kinase antagonist (Fostamatinib) reduces the expression of mast cell-associated gene transcripts, associated biochemical pathways and the number of tryptase/chymase positive mast cells in lesional hidradenitis suppurativa tissue. This data indicates that although mast cells are not the most abundant cell type in Hidradenitis Suppurativa tissue, the dysregulation of mast cells is paralleled with B cell/plasma cell inflammation, inflammatory epithelialized tunnels and epithelial budding. This provides an explanation as to the mixed inflammatory activation signature seen in HS, the correlation with dysregulated wound healing and potential pathways involved in the development of epithelialized tunnels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Flora
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - R Jepsen
- Holdsworth House Medical Practice, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - E K Kozera
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J A Woods
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - G D Cains
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M Radzieta
- South West Sydney Limb Preservation and Wound Research, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - S O Jensen
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M Malone
- South West Sydney Limb Preservation and Wound Research, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J W Frew
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Holdsworth House Medical Practice, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Flora A, Jepsen R, Kozera EK, Woods JA, Cains GD, Radzieta M, Jensen SO, Malone M, Frew JW. Human dermal fibroblast subpopulations and epithelial mesenchymal transition signals in hidradenitis suppurativa tunnels are normalized by spleen tyrosine kinase antagonism in vivo. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282763. [PMID: 37922232 PMCID: PMC10624284 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory disease of which the pathogenesis is incompletely understood. Dermal fibroblasts have been previously identified as a major source of inflammatory cytokines, however information pertaining to the characteristics of subpopulations of fibroblasts in HS remains unexplored. Using in silico-deconvolution of whole-tissue RNAseq, Nanostring gene expression panels and confirmatory immunohistochemistry we identified fibroblast subpopulations in HS tissue and their relationship to disease severity and lesion morphology. Gene signatures of SFRP2+ fibroblast subsets were increased in lesional tissue, with gene signatures of SFRP1+ fibroblast subsets decreased. SFRP2+ and CXCL12+ fibroblast numbers, measured by IHC, were increased in HS tissue, with greater numbers associated with epithelialized tunnels and Hurley Stage 3 disease. Pro-inflammatory CXCL12+ fibroblasts were also increased, with reductions in SFRP1+ fibroblasts compared to healthy controls. Evidence of Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition was seen via altered gene expression of SNAI2 and altered protein expression of ZEB1, TWIST1, Snail/Slug, E-Cadherin and N-Cadherin in HS lesional tissue. The greatest dysregulation of EMT associated proteins was seen in biopsies containing epithelialized tunnels. The use of the oral Spleen tyrosine Kinase inhibitor Fostamatinib significantly reduced expression of genes associated with chronic inflammation, fibroblast proliferation and migration suggesting a potential role for targeting fibroblast activity in HS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Flora
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Emily K. Kozera
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jane A. Woods
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Geoffrey D. Cains
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael Radzieta
- South West Sydney Limb Preservation and Wound Research, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Slade O. Jensen
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthew Malone
- South West Sydney Limb Preservation and Wound Research, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - John W. Frew
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Holdsworth House Medical Practice, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jepsen R, Edwards C, Flora A, Kozera E, Frew JW. A proof-of-concept open-label clinical trial of spleen tyrosine kinase antagonism using fostamatinib in moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 89:694-702. [PMID: 37307994 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.05.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an autoinflammatory disorder of keratinization with a prominence of B cells and plasma cells. Fostamatinib is a spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting B cells and plasma cells. OBJECTIVES To assess the safety, tolerability, and clinical response at week 4 and week 12 of fostamatinib in moderate-to-severe HS. METHODS Twenty participants were administered fostamatinib 100 mg twice a day for 4 weeks, escalating to 150 mg twice a day thereafter until week 12. Participants were assessed for adverse events and clinical response assessed by HiSCR (Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response Score) and IHS4 (International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Score) as well as other outcomes including DLQI (Dermatology Life Quality Index), visual analog scale, and physician global assessment. RESULTS All 20 participants completed the week 4 and week 12 endpoints. Fostamatinib was well tolerated in this cohort with no grade 2/3 adverse events reported. A total of 85% achieved HiSCR at week 4 and 85% at week 12. The greatest reduction in disease activity was seen at weeks 4/5 with worsening in a proportion of patients thereafter. Significant improvements were seen in pain, itch, and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Fostamatinib was well tolerated in this HS cohort with no serious adverse events and improvement in clinical outcomes. Targeting B cells/plasma cells may be a viable therapeutic strategy in HS and requires further exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Jepsen
- Holdsworth House Medical Practice, Sydney, Australia; Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Chloe Edwards
- Holdsworth House Medical Practice, Sydney, Australia
| | - Akshay Flora
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia; University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emily Kozera
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia; University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - John W Frew
- Holdsworth House Medical Practice, Sydney, Australia; Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia; University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Smith CM, Hambly R, Gatault S, Iglesias-Martinez LF, Kearns S, Rea H, Marasigan V, Lynam-Loane K, Kirthi S, Hughes R, Fletcher JM, Kolch W, Kirby B. B-cell-derived transforming growth factor-β may drive the activation of inflammatory macrophages and contribute to scarring in hidradenitis suppurativa. Br J Dermatol 2023; 188:290-310. [PMID: 36763877 DOI: 10.1093/bjd/ljac048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Lesional HS skin was analysed using RNA-sequencing to assess the predicted functional interplay between B cells and macrophages. Our findings support the idea that TGF-beta plays a key role in HS pathogenesis. It is likely that the development of tunnels and scarring in HS is closely related to a chronic activation of TGF-beta signalling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Conor M Smith
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin
| | - Roisin Hambly
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology and.,University College Dublin School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Dublin, Ireland.,Charles Institute of Dermatology and
| | - Solene Gatault
- Charles Institute of Dermatology and.,Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Sean Kearns
- Clinical Research Centre, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Helen Rea
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology and.,Clinical Research Centre, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Vivien Marasigan
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology and.,Clinical Research Centre, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kate Lynam-Loane
- Clinical Research Centre, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Jean M Fletcher
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin.,School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Walter Kolch
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Brian Kirby
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology and.,University College Dublin School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Dublin, Ireland.,Charles Institute of Dermatology and
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hambly R, Gatault S, Smith CM, Iglesias-Martinez LF, Kearns S, Rea H, Marasigan V, Lynam-Loane K, Kirthi S, Hughes R, Fletcher JM, Kolch W, Kirby B. B-cell and complement signature in severe hidradenitis suppurativa that does not respond to adalimumab. Br J Dermatol 2023; 188:52-63. [PMID: 36689500 DOI: 10.1093/bjd/ljac007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with significant morbidity. The pathogenesis remains incompletely understood although immune dysregulation plays an important role. It is challenging to treat and approximately 50% of patients respond clinically to adalimumab, the only licensed treatment. OBJECTIVES To examine differences between lesional and nonlesional HS skin at baseline using bulk RNA sequencing, and to compare the transcriptome in the skin before and after 12 weeks of treatment with adalimumab. To examine transcriptomic differences between adalimumab responders and nonresponders using Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response and the International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Score System (IHS4); and to compare transcriptomic differences based on disease severity (Hurley stage and IHS4). METHODS We completed bulk RNA sequencing on lesional and nonlesional skin samples of patients before and after 12 weeks of treatment with adalimumab. RESULTS Baseline differentially expressed genes and pathways between lesional and nonlesional skin highlighted chemokines and antimicrobial peptides produced by keratinocytes; B-cell function; T-cell-receptor, interleukin-17 and nuclear factor-κB signalling; and T-helper-cell differentiation. Transcriptomic differences were identified in lesional skin at baseline, between subsequent responders and nonresponders. Patients with severe HS who did not respond to adalimumab had enriched complement and B-cell activation pathways at baseline. In addition, logistic regression identified CCL28 in baseline lesional HS skin as a potential biomarker of treatment response. CONCLUSIONS This highlights the potential for targeting B-cell and complement pathways in HS treatment and the potential of stratifying patients at baseline to the most suitable treatment based on the skin transcriptome. CCL28 has not previously been identified in HS skin and has potential clinical relevance due to its antimicrobial function and homing of B and T cells at epithelial surfaces. Our results provide data to inform future translational and clinical studies on therapeutics in HS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roisin Hambly
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- University College Dublin School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- Charles Institute of Dermatology
| | - Solene Gatault
- Charles Institute of Dermatology
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Conor M Smith
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Sean Kearns
- Clinical Research Centre, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Helen Rea
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Clinical Research Centre, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Vivien Marasigan
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Clinical Research Centre, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kate Lynam-Loane
- Clinical Research Centre, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Shivashini Kirthi
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rosalind Hughes
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jean M Fletcher
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Walter Kolch
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Brian Kirby
- The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- University College Dublin School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- Charles Institute of Dermatology
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Oliveira CB, Byrd AS, Okoye GA, Kaplan MJ, Carmona-Rivera C. Neutralizing Anti‒DNase 1 and ‒DNase 1L3 Antibodies Impair Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Degradation in Hidradenitis Suppurativa. J Invest Dermatol 2023; 143:57-66. [PMID: 35934056 PMCID: PMC9771923 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.06.024] [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: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating inflammatory skin disorder characterized by abscess-like nodules and boils resulting in fistulas and tissue scarring. We previously reported evidence of an autoimmune signature in HS, characterized by enhanced neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) infiltration in HS skin lesions and dysregulation of the adaptive immune system characterized by the presence of autoantibodies. Timely removal of NETs is critical for tissue homeostasis to prevent a dysregulated generation of modified autoantigens and tissue damage. DNases 1 and 1L3 play important roles in proper NET removal. We tested the hypothesis that NETs in patients with HS are not effectively cleared owing to the presence of antibodies against DNase 1 and DNase 1L3. We report that HS serum poorly degraded NETs. Addition of exogenous DNase 1 restored NET degradation capabilities in a subset of HS samples. DNase 1 activity was significantly decreased in HS sera. Anti‒DNase 1 and ‒DNase 1L3 antibodies were detected in serum samples and skin lesions from patients with HS. Purified IgGs from HS decreased DNase 1 activity and NET degradation. Taken together, this identification of neutralizing antibodies against nucleases in HS expands the understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease to support an autoimmune mechanism in its underlying pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher B Oliveira
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Angel S Byrd
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Howard University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ginette A Okoye
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Howard University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mariana J Kaplan
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Carmelo Carmona-Rivera
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
de Oliveira ASLE, Bloise G, Moltrasio C, Coelho A, Agrelli A, Moura R, Tricarico PM, Jamain S, Marzano AV, Crovella S, Cavalcanti Brandão LA. Transcriptome Meta-Analysis Confirms the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Pathogenic Triad: Upregulated Inflammation, Altered Epithelial Organization, and Dysregulated Metabolic Signaling. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1371. [PMID: 36291580 PMCID: PMC9599370 DOI: 10.3390/biom12101371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an inflammatory skin condition clinically characterized by recurrent painful deep-seated nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracks in areas bearing apocrine glands, such as axillae, breasts, groins, and buttocks. Despite many recent advances, the pathophysiological landscape of HS still demands further clarification. To elucidate HS pathogenesis, we performed a meta-analysis, set analysis, and a variant calling on selected RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) studies on HS skin. Our findings corroborate the HS triad composed of upregulated inflammation, altered epithelial differentiation, and dysregulated metabolism signaling. Upregulation of specific genes, such as KRT6, KRT16, serpin-family genes, and SPRR3 confirms the early involvement of hair follicles and the impairment of barrier function in HS lesioned skin. In addition, our results suggest that adipokines could be regarded as biomarkers of HS and metabolic-related disorders. Finally, the RNA-Seq variant calling identified several mutations in HS patients, suggesting potential new HS-related genes associated with the sporadic form of this disease. Overall, this study provides insights into the molecular pathways involved in HS and identifies potential HS-related biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Giovanna Bloise
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-000, Brazil
| | - Chiara Moltrasio
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Antonio Coelho
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-000, Brazil
| | - Almerinda Agrelli
- Laboratory of Nanostructured Materials (LMNANO), Center for Strategic Technologies Northeastern (CETENE), Av. Prof. Luís Freire, 1-Cidade Universitária, Recife 50740-545, Brazil
| | - Ronald Moura
- Department of Advanced Diagnostics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Paola Maura Tricarico
- Department of Advanced Diagnostics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Stéphane Jamain
- Translational Neuropsychiatry, Univ. Paris Est Créteil, Inserm, IMRB, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Angelo Valerio Marzano
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Sergio Crovella
- Biological Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Qatar, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Autoantibodies Present in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Correlate with Disease Severity and Promote the Release of Proinflammatory Cytokines in Macrophages. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:924-935. [PMID: 34606886 PMCID: PMC8860851 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.07.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa, is a debilitating inflammatory skin disorder that is characterized by nodules that lead to the development of connected tunnels and scars as it progresses from Hurley stages I to III. HS has been associated with several autoimmune diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease and spondyloarthritis. We previously reported dysregulation of humoral immune responses in HS, characterized by elevated serum total IgG, B-cell activation, and antibodies recognizing citrullinated proteins. In this study, we characterized IgG autoreactivity in HS sera and lesional skin compared with those in normal healthy controls using an array-based high-throughput autoantibody screening. The Cy3-labeled anti-human assay showed the presence of autoantibodies against nuclear antigens, cytokines, cytoplasmic proteins, extracellular matrix proteins, neutrophil proteins, and citrullinated antigens. Most of these autoantibodies were significantly elevated in stages II‒III in HS sera and stage III in HS skin lesions compared with those of healthy controls. Furthermore, immune complexes containing both native and citrullinated versions of antigens can activate M1 and M2 macrophages to release proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6, and IL-12. Taken together, the identification of specific IgG autoantibodies that recognize circulating and tissue antigens in HS suggests an autoimmune mechanism and uncovers putative therapeutic targets.
Collapse
|
12
|
Dreno B, Chavda R, Julia V, Khammari A, Blanchet-Réthoré S, Krishnaswamy JK. Transcriptomics Analysis Indicates Trifarotene Reverses Acne-Related Gene Expression Changes. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:745822. [PMID: 34746181 PMCID: PMC8569320 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.745822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Trifarotene is a topical retinoid selective for retinoic acid receptor gamma that was recently approved for treatment of acne vulgaris. We performed a gene expression analysis to identify the molecular and cellular impact of trifarotene treatment on acne papules. Methods: In this open-label prospective study, subjects with moderate inflammatory acne of the back were treated with trifarotene 0.005% or vehicle cream on dedicated areas for 27 days, and 4 biopsies were collected from each subject (1 from skin without a visible acne lesion and three at the site of an acne papule: one baseline, one after vehicle treatment, and one after trifarotene treatment). Large scale gene expression profiling of the biopsies was performed using Affymetrix technology, treatment-specific gene expression profiles were generated using statistical modeling, and pathway analysis was performed. Using single-cell RNAseq data, in silico deconvolution of transcriptomics data was performed to identify cellular signatures. Results: We discovered a unique set of 67 genes modulated by trifarotene that are primarily involved in cellular migration, inflammation, and extracellular matrix reorganization. Changes in cellular expression were similar in both trifarotene-treated and spontaneously-resolving lesions. However, only trifarotene treatment impacted SPP1+ macrophages, a subset of highly proliferative macrophages recently identified in fibrotic tissue. Conclusions: These results show that trifarotene has a novel action in acne treatment by affecting epidermal and immune components of acne pathogenesis.
Collapse
|
13
|
Frew JW. Autoantibody-Mediated Macrophage Responses Provide the Missing Link between Innate and Adaptive Immune Dysfunction in Hidradenitis Suppurativa. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 142:747-749. [PMID: 34716008 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.08.400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa is considered to be a T helper 17-mediated inflammatory disorder. However, the role of prominent B-cell and plasma cell infiltrates has not been incorporated into pathogenic understanding of the disease. In their new article in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, Carmona-Rivera et al. (2021) present new insights regarding autoantibody-mediated macrophage activation, which bridges the link between the innate and adaptive immune responses in severe hidradenitis suppurativa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John W Frew
- Laboratory of Translational Cutaneous Medicine, Ingham Institute of Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia; University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rosi E, Fastame MT, Scandagli I, Di Cesare A, Ricceri F, Pimpinelli N, Prignano F. Insights into the Pathogenesis of HS and Therapeutical Approaches. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1168. [PMID: 34572354 PMCID: PMC8467309 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating, chronic, (auto)inflammatory disease primarily affecting apocrine gland-rich areas of the body. Although pathogenic mechanisms responsible for HS have not yet been fully elucidated, it is a multifactorial process whose main target is the terminal follicle. The role of the inflammatory process (and consequently of cytokine milieu) and of several other factors (genetics, lifestyle, hormonal status, microbiome, innate and adaptive immune systems) involved in HS pathogenesis has been investigated (and often defined) over the years with a view to transferring research results from bench to bedside and describing a unique and universally accepted pathogenetic model. This review will update readers on recent advances in our understanding of HS pathogenesis and novel (potential) medical therapies for patients with moderate-to-severe HS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Francesca Prignano
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Dermatology, University of Florence, 50125 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (M.T.F.); (I.S.); (A.D.C.); (F.R.); (N.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Frew JW. Hidradenitis suppurativa is an autoinflammatory keratinization disease: A review of the clinical, histologic, and molecular evidence. JAAD Int 2020; 1:62-72. [PMID: 34409324 PMCID: PMC8361883 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdin.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenic model of hidradenitis suppurativa is in the midst of a paradigm shift away from a disorder of primary follicular occlusion to an autoinflammatory keratinization disease. Observational, experimental, and therapeutic evidence supports the concept of hidradenitis suppurativa as a primarily inflammatory disorder, a disorder of autoimmunity, or both, in contrast to the current prevailing paradigm of primary follicular occlusion. The lack of reliable and high-fidelity disease models has limited the available experimental and mechanistic evidence to support or refute one pathogenic model over another. This scholarly review synthesizes the existing clinical, histologic, and molecular data to evaluate the extant evidence supporting the autoinflammatory paradigm and further informing the molecular mechanisms of hidradenitis suppurativa pathogenesis. Follicular hyperkeratosis/occlusion and perifollicular inflammation coexist in histologic specimens, with interleukin 1α demonstrated to stimulate comedogenesis in the infundibulum. pH elevation in occluded body sites alters the microbiome and amplifies existing T-helper cell type 17 immunoresponses. Known metabolic comorbidities and smoking are known to upregulate interleukin 1α in follicular keratinocytes. Identified genetic variants may alter epidermal growth factor receptor signaling, leading to upregulated keratinocyte inflammatory responses. The process of follicular rupture and dermal tunnel formation can be explained as secondary responses to inflammatory activation of fibroblasts and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, with antibody production associated with inflammatory amplification in advanced disease. This review aims to reevaluate and integrate the current clinical, histologic, and molecular data into a pathogenic model of hidradenitis suppurativa. This is essential to advance our understanding of the disease and identify novel therapeutic targets and approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John W Frew
- Laboratory of Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| |
Collapse
|