Overview of the IL-1 family in innate inflammation and acquired immunity

Rational design of monomeric IL37 variants guided by stability and dynamical analyses of IL37 dimers

IL37 plays important roles in the regulation of innate immunity and its oligomeric status is critical to these roles. In its monomeric state, IL37 can effectively inhibit the inflammatory response of IL18 by binding to IL18Rα, a capacity lost in its dimeric form, underlining the pivotal role of the oligomeric status of IL37 in its anti-inflammatory action. Until now, two IL37 dimer structures have been deposited in PDB, reflecting a substantial difference in their dimer interfaces. Given this discrepancy, we analyzed the PDB structures of the IL37 dimer (PDB IDs: 6ncu, 5hn1) along with a AF2-multimer prediction by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Results showed that the 5hn1 and AF2-predicted dimers have the same interface and stably maintained their conformations throughout simulations, while the recent IL37 dimer (PDB ID: 6ncu) with a different interface did not, proposing a possible issue with the recent IL37 dimer structure (6ncu). Next, focusing on the stable dimer structures, we have identified five critical positions of V71/Y85/I86/E89/S114, three new positions compared to the literature, that would reduce dimer stability without affecting the monomer structure. Two quintuple mutants were tested by MD simulations and showed partial or complete dissociation of the dimer. Overall, the insights gained from this study reinforce the validity of the 5hn1 and AF2 multimer structures, while also advancing our understanding of the IL37 dimer interface through the generation of monomer-locked IL37 variants.

Capsid protein mediated evasion of IRAK1-dependent signalling is essential to Sindbis virus neuroinvasion and virulence in mice

ABSTRACTAlphaviruses are arthropod-borne, single-stranded positive-sense RNA viruses that are recognized as rapidly emerging pathogens. Despite being exquisitely sensitive to the effects of the innate immune response alphaviruses can readily replicate, disseminate, and induce pathogenesis in immunologically competent hosts. Nonetheless, how alphaviruses evade the induction of an innate immune response prior to viral gene expression, or in non-permissive infections, is unknown. Previously we reported the identification of a novel host/pathogen interaction between the viral Capsid (CP) protein and the host IRAK1 protein. The CP/IRAK1 interaction was determined to negatively impact IRAK1-dependent PAMP detection in vitro, however, the precise importance of the CP/IRAK1 interaction to alphaviral infection remained unknown. Here we detail the identification of the CP/IRAK1 interaction determinants of the Sindbis virus (SINV) CP protein and examine the importance of the interaction to alphaviral infection and pathogenesis in vivo using an interaction deficient mutant of the model neurotropic strain of SINV. Importantly, these interaction determinants are highly conserved across multiple Old-World alphaviruses, including Ross River virus (RRV), Mayaro virus (MAYV), Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), and Semliki Forest virus (SFV). In the absence of a functional CP/IRAK1 interaction, SINV replication is significantly restricted and fails to disseminate from the primary site of inoculation due to the induction of a robust type-I Interferon response. Altogether these data indicate that the evasion of IRAK1-dependent signalling is critical to overcoming the host innate immune response and the in vivo data presented here demonstrate the importance of the CP/IRAK1 interaction to neurovirulence and pathogenesis.

Exacerbated interfacial impacts of nanoplastics and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate by natural organic matter in adult zebrafish: Evidence through histopathology, gut microbiota, and transcriptomic analysis

Nanoplastics (NPs) interact with cooccurring chemicals and natural organic matter (NOM) in the environment, forming complexes that can change their bioavailability and interfacial toxicity in aquatic organisms. This study aims to elucidate the single and combined impacts of 21-day chronic exposure to low levels of polystyrene NPs (size 80 nm) at 1 mg/L and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (Cl-PFAES or F53B) at 200 μg/L in the presence and absence of NOM (humic acid-HA and bovine serum albumin-BSA at 10 mg/L) in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Our findings through multiple bioassays, revealed that the mixture group (M), comprising of NPs, F53B, HA, and BSA, caused a higher level of toxicity compared to the single NPs (AN), single F53B (AF), and combined NPs+F53B (ANF) groups. The mixture exposure caused the highest level of vacuolization and nuclear condensation in hepatocytes, and most of the intestinal villi were fused and highly reduced in villi length and crypt depth. Further, the T-AOC levels were significantly lower (p < 0.05), while the MDA levels in the liver and intestine were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the M group with downregulation of nfkbiaa, while upregulation of prkcda, csf1ra, and il1b apoptosis genes in the liver. Pairwise comparison of gut microbiota showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) abundances of various genera in the M group, including Gordonia, Methylobacterium, Tundrisphaera, GKS98, Pedomicrobium, Clostridium, Candidatus and Anaerobacillus, as well as higher abundance of genera including pathogenic strains, while control group showed higher abundance of probiotic genus ZOR0006 than exposed group (p < 0.01). The transcriptomic analysis revealed highest number of DEGs in the M group (2815), followed by the AN group (506) and ANF group (206) with the activation of relaxin signaling pathway-RSP (slc9a1, slc9a2) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway (plin1), and suppression of the toll-like receptor (TLR) pathway (tlr4a, tlr2, tlr1), cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction (CCRI) pathway (tnfb, il21r1, il21, ifng1), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) pathway (pfkfb3). Overall, toxicity in the M group was higher, indicating that the HA and BSA elevated the interfacial impacts of NPs and F53B in adult zebrafish after chronic environmentally relevant exposure, implying the revisitation of the critical interaction of NOM with co-occurring chemicals and associated impacts.

Pancreatic stellate cells and the interleukin family: Linking fibrosis and immunity to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (Review)

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely aggressive form of cancer with a low survival rate. A successful treatment strategy should not be limited to targeting cancer cells alone, but should adopt a more comprehensive approach, taking into account other influential factors. These include the extracellular matrix (ECM) and immune microenvironment, both of which are integral components of the tumor microenvironment. The present review describes the roles of pancreatic stellate cells, differentiated cancer‑associated fibroblasts and the interleukin family, either independently or in combination, in the progression of precursor lesions in pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia and PDAC. These elements contribute to ECM deposition and immunosuppression in PDAC. Therapeutic strategies that integrate interleukin and/or stromal blockade for PDAC immunomodulation and fibrogenesis have yielded inconsistent results. A deeper comprehension of the intricate interplay between fibrosis, and immune responses could pave the way for more effective treatment targets, by elucidating the mechanisms and causes of ECM fibrosis during PDAC progression.

Role of hydrogen sulfide in dermatological diseases

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), together with carbon monoxide (CO) and nitric oxide (NO), is recognized as a vital gasotransmitter. H2S is biosynthesized by enzymatic pathways in the skin and exerts significant physiological effects on a variety of biological processes, such as apoptosis, modulation of inflammation, cellular proliferation, and regulation of vasodilation. As a major health problem, dermatological diseases affect a large proportion of the population every day. It is urgent to design and develop effective drugs to deal with dermatological diseases. Dermatological diseases can arise from a multitude of etiologies, including neoplastic growth, infectious agents, and inflammatory processes. The abnormal metabolism of H2S is associated with many dermatological diseases, such as melanoma, fibrotic diseases, and psoriasis, suggesting its therapeutic potential in the treatment of these diseases. In addition, therapies based on H2S donors are being developed to treat some of these conditions. In the review, we discuss recent advances in the function of H2S in normal skin, the role of altering H2S metabolism in dermatological diseases, and the therapeutic potential of diverse H2S donors for the treatment of dermatological diseases.

Alterations of receptors and insulin-like growth factor binding proteins in senescent cells

The knowledge about cellular senescence expands dynamically, providing more and more conclusive evidence of its triggers, mechanisms, and consequences. Senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), one of the most important functional traits of senescent cells, is responsible for a large extent of their context-dependent activity. Both SASP's components and signaling pathways are well-defined. A literature review shows, however, that a relatively underinvestigated aspect of senescent cell autocrine and paracrine activity is the change in the production of proteins responsible for the reception and transmission of SASP signals, i.e., receptors and binding proteins. For this reason, we present in this article the current state of knowledge regarding senescence-associated changes in cellular receptors and insulin-like growth factor binding proteins. We also discuss the role of these alterations in senescence induction and maintenance, pro-cancerogenic effects of senescent cells, and aging-related structural and functional malfunctions.

Advances in the study of LNPs for mRNA delivery and clinical applications

Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) was discovered in 1961 as an intermediary for transferring genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis. The COVID-19 pandemic brought worldwide attention to mRNA vaccines. The emergency use authorization of two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273, were major achievements in the history of vaccine development. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), one of the most superior non-viral delivery vectors available, have made many exciting advances in clinical translation as part of the COVID-19 vaccine and therefore has the potential to accelerate the clinical translation of many gene drugs. In addition, due to these small size, biocompatibility and excellent biodegradability, LNPs can efficiently deliver nucleic acids into cells, which is particularly important for current mRNA therapeutic regimens. LNPs are composed cationic or pH-dependent ionizable lipid bilayer, polyethylene glycol (PEG), phospholipids, and cholesterol, represents an advanced system for the delivery of mRNA vaccines. Furthermore, optimization of these four components constituting the LNPs have demonstrated enhanced vaccine efficacy and diminished adverse effects. The incorporation of biodegradable lipids enhance the biocompatibility of LNPs, thereby improving its potential as an efficacious therapeutic approach for a wide range of challenging and intricate diseases, encompassing infectious diseases, liver disorders, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular conditions, among others. Consequently, this review aims to furnish the scientific community with the most up-to-date information regarding mRNA vaccines and LNP delivery systems.

The role of IL-1 family of cytokines in the pathogenesis and therapy of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive and irreversible neurological condition that occurs with age and poses a significant global public health concern, is distinguished by the degeneration of neurons and synapses in various regions of the brain. While the exact processes behind the neurodegeneration in AD are not completely known, it is now acknowledged that inflammation may have a significant impact on the beginning and advancement of AD neurodegeneration. The severity of many neurological illnesses can be influenced by the equilibrium between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators. The IL-1 family of cytokines is linked to innate immune responses, which are present in both acute inflammation and chronic inflammatory diseases. Research on the role of the IL-1 family in chronic neurological disease has been concentrated on AD. In this context, there is indirect evidence suggesting its involvement in the development of the disease. This review aims to provide a summary of the contribution of every IL-1 family member in AD pathogenesis, current immunotherapies in AD disease, and present treatment possibilities for either targeting or boosting these cytokines.

A Narrative Review of the IL-18 and IL-37 Implications in the Pathogenesis of Atopic Dermatitis and Psoriasis: Prospective Treatment Targets

Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are prevalent inflammatory skin conditions that significantly impact the quality of life of patients, with diverse treatment options available. Despite advances in understanding their underlying mechanisms, recent research highlights the significance of interleukins IL-18 and IL-37, in Th1, Th2, and Th17 inflammatory responses, closely associated with the pathogenesis of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Hence, IL-18 and IL-37 could potentially become therapeutic targets. This narrative review synthesizes knowledge on these interleukins, their roles in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, and emerging treatment strategies. Findings of a literature search up to 30 May 2024, underscore a research gap in IL-37-targeted therapies. Conversely, IL-18-focused treatments have demonstrated promise in adult-onset Still's Disease, warranting further exploration for their potential efficacy in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.

Nanomedicine-induced programmed cell death enhances tumor immunotherapy

BACKGROUND

There has been widespread concern about the high cancer mortality rate and the shortcomings of conventional cancer treatments. Immunotherapy is a novel oncology therapy with high efficiency and low side effects, which is a revolutionary direction for clinical oncology treatment. However, its clinical effectiveness is uneven. Based on the redefinition and reclassification of programmed cell death (PCD) (divided into necroptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy), the role of nanomedicine-induced PCD in cancer therapy has also received significant attention. Clinical and preclinical studies have begun to combine PCD with immunotherapy.

AIM OF REVIEW

In this article, we present recent research in tumor immunotherapy, provide an overview of how nanomedicine-induced PCD is involved in tumor therapy, and review how nanomedicine-induced PCD can improve the limitations of immunotherapy to enhance tumor immunotherapy. The future development of nanomedicine-mediated PCD tumor therapy and tumor immunotherapy is also proposed Key scientific concepts of overview Nanomedicine-induced PCD is a prospective method of tumor immunotherapy. Nanomedicines increase tumor site penetration and targeting ability, and nanomedicine-mediated PCD activation can stimulate powerful anti-tumor immune effects, which has a good contribution to immunotherapy of tumors.

Recent alcohol intake impacts microbiota in adult burn patients

Alcohol use is associated with an increased incidence of negative health outcomes in burn patients due to biological mechanisms that include a dysregulated inflammatory response and increased intestinal permeability. This study used phosphatidylethanol (PEth) in blood, a direct biomarker of recent alcohol use, to investigate associations between a recent history of alcohol use and the fecal microbiota, short chain fatty acids, and inflammatory markers in the first week after a burn injury for nineteen participants. Burn patients were grouped according to PEth levels of low or high and differences in the overall fecal microbial community were observed between these cohorts. Two genera that contributed to the differences and had higher relative abundance in the low PEth burn patient group were Akkermansia, a mucin degrading bacteria that improves intestinal barrier function, and Bacteroides, a potentially anti-inflammatory bacteria. There was no statistically significant difference between levels of short chain fatty acids or intestinal permeability across the two groups. To our knowledge, this study represents the first report to evaluate the effects of burn injury and recent alcohol use on early post burn microbiota dysbiosis, inflammatory response, and levels of short chain fatty acids. Future studies in this field are warranted to better understand the factors associated with negative health outcomes and develop interventional trials.

Damage-associated molecular patterns in viral infection: potential therapeutic targets

Frequent viral infections leading to infectious disease outbreaks have become a significant global health concern. Fully elucidating the molecular mechanisms of the immune response against viral infections is crucial for epidemic prevention and control. The innate immune response, the host's primary defense against viral infection, plays a pivotal role and has become a breakthrough in research mechanisms. A component of the innate immune system, damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are involved in inducing inflammatory responses to viral infections. Numerous DAMPs are released from virally infected cells, activating downstream signaling pathways via internal and external receptors on immune cells. This activation triggers immune responses and helps regulate viral host invasion. This review examines the immune regulatory mechanisms of various DAMPs, such as the S100 protein family, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), and heat shock proteins, in various viral infections to provide a theoretical basis for designing novel antiviral drugs.

Monoclonal antibodies for equine IL-1β enable the quantification of mature IL-1β in horses

Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is one of the key mediators of inflammation during innate immune responses. Mature bioactive IL-1β mediates essential host defense mechanisms but also has a mechanistic role in several autoinflammatory and degenerative diseases. In horses, specific and sensitive assays for IL-1β are crucial for immunological research on inflammatory processes and diseases. In this article, we describe the development of four monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against equine IL-1β. The specificity of the new IL-1β mAbs was confirmed using a panel of equine recombinant cytokines and chemokines. The mAbs were validated for detection of native mature IL-1β in a fluorescent bead-based assay and for staining of IL-1β-producing immune cells by flow cytometry. The bead-based assay for equine IL-1β had a linear quantification range between 60 pg/ml to 960 ng/ml. Horse peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) secreted IL-1β after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in time and dose dependent manner as quantified by the new equine IL-1β bead-based assay. A comparison of two commercial equine IL-1β ELISA kits with the new IL-1β fluorescent bead-based assay revealed that the bead-based assay improved the quantification of native equine IL-1β in LPS stimulated PBMC supernatants by detecting it with high intensity and a broad linear quantification range, while both ELISAs resulted in low signals and poor native IL-1β recognition. Intracellular staining and flow cytometric analysis confirmed that the main cellular source of IL-1β in equine PBMC after LPS stimulation were CD14+ monocytes. IL-1β secretion from PBMC was inhibited by a caspase inhibitor but protein translation within the cells was not, supporting the accumulation of pro-IL-1β within the cells even when proteolytic cleavage for IL-1β activation is missing. This confirmed the importance of specific mAbs for analyzing the biologically active, mature IL-1β in horses.

TRANSCRIPTOMIC DIFFERENCES IN PERIPHERAL MONOCYTE POPULATIONS IN SEPTIC PATIENTS BASED ON OUTCOME

ABSTRACT

Postsepsis early mortality is being replaced by survivors who experience either a rapid recovery and favorable hospital discharge or the development of chronic critical illness with suboptimal outcomes. The underlying immunological response that determines these clinical trajectories remains poorly defined at the transcriptomic level. As classical and nonclassical monocytes are key leukocytes in both the innate and adaptive immune systems, we sought to delineate the transcriptomic response of these cell types. Using single-cell RNA sequencing and pathway analyses, we identified gene expression patterns between these two groups that are consistent with differences in TNF-α production based on clinical outcome. This may provide therapeutic targets for those at risk for chronic critical illness in order to improve their phenotype/endotype, morbidity, and long-term mortality.

Identification of candidate genes and molecular mechanisms related to asthma progression using bioinformatics

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a heterogeneous disorder. This study aimed to identify changes in gene expression and molecular mechanisms associated with moderate to severe asthma.

METHODS

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed in GSE69683 dataset among moderate asthma and its controls as well as between severe asthma and moderate asthma. Key module genes were identified via co-expression analysis, and the molecular mechanism of the module genes was explored through enrichment analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). GSE89809 was used to verify the characteristic genes related to moderate and severe asthma.

RESULTS

Accordingly, 2540 DEGs were present between moderate asthma and the control group, while 6781 DEGs existed between severe asthma and moderate asthma. These genes were identified into 14 co-expression modules. Module 7 had the highest positive correlation with severe asthma and was recognized to be a key module by STEM. Enrichment analysis demonstrated that the module genes were mainly involved in oxidative stress-related signaling pathways. The expression of HSPA1A, PIK3CG and PIK3R6 was associated with moderate asthma, while MAPK13 and MMP9 were associated with severe asthma. The AUC values were verified by GSE89809. Additionally, 322 drugs were predicted to target five genes.

CONCLUSION

These results identified characteristic genes related to moderate and severe asthma and their corresponding molecular mechanisms, providing a basis for future research.

IL-1 signaling pathway, an important target for inflammation surrounding in myocardial infarction

Acute myocardial infarction is an important cardiovascular disease worldwide. Although the mortality rate of myocardial infarction (MI) has improved dramatically in recent years due to timely treatment, adverse remodeling of the left ventricle continues to affect cardiac function. Various immune cells are involved in this process to induce inflammation and amplification. The infiltration of inflammatory cells in the infarcted myocardium is induced by various cytokines and chemokines, and the recruitment of leukocytes further amplifies the inflammatory response. As an increasing number of clinical anti-inflammatory therapies have achieved significant success in recent years, treating myocardial infarction by targeting inflammation may become a novel therapeutic option. In particular, successful clinical trials of canakinumab have demonstrated the important role of the inflammatory factor interleukin-1 (IL-1) in atherosclerosis. Targeted IL-1 therapy may decrease inflammation levels and improve cardiac function in patients after myocardial infarction. This article reviews the complex series of responses after myocardial infarction, including the involvement of inflammatory cells and the role of cytokines and chemokines, focusing on the progression of the IL-1 family in myocardial infarction as well as the performance of current targeted therapy drugs in experiments.

CHIP: a clonal odyssey of the bone marrow niche

Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) is characterized by the selective expansion of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) carrying somatic mutations. While CHIP is typically asymptomatic, it has garnered substantial attention due to its association with the pathogenesis of multiple disease conditions, including cardiovascular disease (CVD) and hematological malignancies. In this Review, we will discuss seminal and recent studies that have advanced our understanding of mechanisms that drive selection for mutant HSPCs in the BM niche. Next, we will address recent studies evaluating potential relationships between the clonal dynamics of CHIP and hematopoietic development across the lifespan. Next, we will examine the roles of systemic factors that can influence hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) fitness, including inflammation, and exposures to cytotoxic agents in driving selection for CHIP clones. Furthermore, we will consider how - through their impact on the BM niche - lifestyle factors, including diet, exercise, and psychosocial stressors, might contribute to the process of somatic evolution in the BM that culminates in CHIP. Finally, we will review the role of old age as a major driver of selection in CHIP.

The central role of Interleukin-1 signaling in the pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease vasculitis: Path to Translation

Kawasaki disease (KD) manifests as an acute febrile condition and systemic vasculitis, the etiology of which remains elusive. Primarily affecting children under five years of age, if untreated, KD can lead to a significant risk of coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) and subsequent long-term cardiovascular sequelae, including myocardial ischemia and myocardial infarction. While intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy mitigates the risk of aneurysm formation, a subset of patients exhibits resistance to this treatment, increasing the susceptibility of coronary artery lesions. Furthermore, the absence of a KD-specific diagnostic test or biomarkers complicates early detection and appropriate treatment. Experimental murine models of KD vasculitis have substantially improved our understanding of the disease pathophysiology, revealing the key roles of the NLRP3 inflammasome and interleukin-1 (IL-1) signaling pathway. This review aims to delineate the pathophysiological findings of KD while summarizing the findings for the emerging key role of IL-1β in its pathogenesis, derived from both human data and experimental murine models, and the translational potential of these findings for anti-IL-1 therapies for children with KD.

Novel Dairy Fermentates Have Differential Effects on Key Immune Responses Associated with Viral Immunity and Inflammation in Dendritic Cells

Fermented foods and ingredients, including furmenties derived from lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in dairy products, can modulate the immune system. Here, we describe the use of reconstituted skimmed milk powder to generate novel fermentates from Lactobacillus helveticus strains SC232, SC234, SC212, and SC210, and from Lacticaseibacillus casei strains SC209 and SC229, and demonstrate, using in vitro assays, that these fermentates can differentially modulate cytokine secretion via bone-marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) when activated with either the viral ligand loxoribine or an inflammatory stimulus, lipopolysaccharide. Specifically, we demonstrate that SC232 and SC234 increase cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, IL-12p40, IL-23, IL-27, and IL-10 and decrease IL-1β in primary bone-marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) stimulated with a viral ligand. In contrast, exposure of these cells to SC212 and SC210 resulted in increased IL-10, IL-1β, IL-23, and decreased IL-12p40 following activation of the cells with the inflammatory stimulus LPS. Interestingly, SC209 and SC229 had little or no effect on cytokine secretion by BMDCs. Overall, our data demonstrate that these novel fermentates have specific effects and can differentially enhance key immune mechanisms that are critical to viral immune responses, or can suppress responses involved in chronic inflammatory conditions, such as ulcerative colitis (UC), and Crohn's disease (CD).

Optical Aptamer-Based Cytokine Nanosensor Detects Macrophage Activation by Bacterial Toxins

Overactive or dysregulated cytokine expression is a hallmark of many acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. This is true for acute or chronic infections, neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and others. Cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) are known therapeutic targets and biomarkers for such inflammatory diseases. Platforms for cytokine detection are, therefore, desirable tools for both research and clinical applications. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) are versatile nanomaterials with near-infrared fluorescence that can serve as transducers for optical sensors. When functionalized with an analyte-specific recognition element, SWCNT emission may become sensitive and selective toward the desired target. SWCNT-aptamer sensors are easily assembled, inexpensive, and biocompatible. In this work, we introduced a nanosensor design based on SWCNT and a DNA aptamer specific to IL-6. We first evaluated several SWCNT-aptamer constructs based on this simple direct complexation method, wherein the aptamer both solubilizes the SWCNT and confers sensitivity to IL-6. The sensor limit of detection, 105 ng/mL, lies in the relevant range for pathological IL-6 levels. Upon investigation of sensor kinetics, we found rapid response within seconds of antigen addition which continued over the course of 3 h. We found that this sensor construct is stable and the aptamer is not displaced from the nanotube surface during IL-6 detection. Finally, we investigated the ability of this sensor construct to detect macrophage activation caused by bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in an in vitro model of disease, finding rapid and sensitive detection of macrophage-expressed IL-6. We are confident that further development of this sensor will have novel implications for diagnosis of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, in addition to contributing to the understanding of the role of cytokines in these diseases.

A narrative review on the role of cytokines in the pathogenesis and treatment of familial Mediterranean fever: an emphasis on pediatric cases

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a hereditary autoinflammatory disease characterized by an early onset of recurrent fever and serositis episodes. FMF is caused by mutations in the MEFV gene which encodes the pyrin protein, an IL-1β mediated inflammation regulator. Recent findings have identified a plethora of molecules and pathways involved in the regulation of inflammation and innate immunity, hence increasing our understanding of the etiology and inflammatory nature of FMF. Cytokines, in particular, have been found to play a key role in the pathogenesis and treatment of the disease. Indeed, various studies associated cytokines' genetic variations and expression with susceptibility to and severity of the disease, which was further supported by the positive response of patients, both children and adults, to targeted cytokine blocking therapies. These studies highlighted the potential use of cytokines as biomarkers and target in resistant/intolerant patients and contributed to improving the early detection of FMF in children, thus enhancing their quality of life and providing alternative treatment for severe cases. The aim of this review is to provide the latest updates on the pivotal role of cytokines in FMF and to discuss the efficacy and safety of anti-cytokine biologics by primarily focusing on pediatric FMF cases.

IL-1 in aging and pathologies of hematopoietic stem cells

ABSTRACT

Defense-oriented inflammatory reactivity supports survival at younger age but might contribute to health impairments in modern, aging societies. The interleukin-1 (IL-1) cytokines are highly conserved and regulated, pleiotropic mediators of inflammation, essential to respond adequately to infection and tissue damage but also with potential host damaging effects when left unresolved. In this review, we discuss how continuous low-level IL-1 signaling contributes to aging-associated hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) functional impairments and how this inflammatory selective pressure acts as a driver of more profound hematological alterations, such as clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential, and to overt HSPC diseases, like myeloproliferative and myelodysplastic neoplasia as well as acute myeloid leukemia. Based on this, we outline how IL-1 pathway inhibition might be used to prevent or treat inflammaging-associated HSPC pathologies.

Targeting cytokine and chemokine signaling pathways for cancer therapy

Cytokines are critical in regulating immune responses and cellular behavior, playing dual roles in both normal physiology and the pathology of diseases such as cancer. These molecules, including interleukins, interferons, tumor necrosis factors, chemokines, and growth factors like TGF-β, VEGF, and EGF, can promote or inhibit tumor growth, influence the tumor microenvironment, and impact the efficacy of cancer treatments. Recent advances in targeting these pathways have shown promising therapeutic potential, offering new strategies to modulate the immune system, inhibit tumor progression, and overcome resistance to conventional therapies. In this review, we summarized the current understanding and therapeutic implications of targeting cytokine and chemokine signaling pathways in cancer. By exploring the roles of these molecules in tumor biology and the immune response, we highlighted the development of novel therapeutic agents aimed at modulating these pathways to combat cancer. The review elaborated on the dual nature of cytokines as both promoters and suppressors of tumorigenesis, depending on the context, and discussed the challenges and opportunities this presents for therapeutic intervention. We also examined the latest advancements in targeted therapies, including monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, receptor inhibitors, fusion proteins, engineered cytokine variants, and their impact on tumor growth, metastasis, and the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, we evaluated the potential of combining these targeted therapies with other treatment modalities to overcome resistance and improve patient outcomes. Besides, we also focused on the ongoing research and clinical trials that are pivotal in advancing our understanding and application of cytokine- and chemokine-targeted therapies for cancer patients.

Mini review on collagens in normal skin and pathological scars: current understanding and future perspective

Pathological scar tissues are characterized by the presence of overabundant collagens whose structure and organization are also different from those in unwounded skin. This causes scar tissues to lose some functions performed by normal skin, and currently, there are no effective measures to prevent scar formation. Inflammation has been shown to modulate fibroblast proliferation, differentiation, and function, hence collagen production and organization. In this minireview, we provide an overview of the current understanding of collagen, specifically collagen type I and III which are main collagens in skin, structure and fibre formation and highlight their differences between normal skin and pathological scars. We discuss the role that cytokines play in modulating fibroblast function. We also identify some potential research directions which could help to further our understanding of the complex and dynamic wound healing and scar formation process.

Enhancing acute inflammatory and sepsis treatment: superiority of membrane receptor blockade

Conditions such as acute pancreatitis, ulcerative colitis, delayed graft function and infections caused by a variety of microorganisms, including gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, increase the risk of sepsis and therefore mortality. Immune dysfunction is a characterization of sepsis, so timely and effective treatment strategies are needed. The conventional approaches, such as antibiotic-based treatments, face challenges such as antibiotic resistance, and cytokine-based treatments have shown limited efficacy. To address these limitations, a novel approach focusing on membrane receptors, the initiators of the inflammatory cascade, is proposed. Membrane receptors such as Toll-like receptors, interleukin-1 receptor, endothelial protein C receptor, μ-opioid receptor, triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1, and G-protein coupled receptors play pivotal roles in the inflammatory response, offering opportunities for rapid regulation. Various membrane receptor blockade strategies have demonstrated efficacy in both preclinical and clinical studies. These membrane receptor blockades act as early stage inflammation modulators, providing faster responses compared to conventional therapies. Importantly, these blockers exhibit immunomodulatory capabilities without inducing complete immunosuppression. Finally, this review underscores the critical need for early intervention in acute inflammatory and infectious diseases, particularly those posing a risk of progressing to sepsis. And, exploring membrane receptor blockade as an adjunctive treatment for acute inflammatory and infectious diseases presents a promising avenue. These novel approaches, when combined with antibiotics, have the potential to enhance patient outcomes, particularly in conditions prone to sepsis, while minimizing risks associated with antibiotic resistance and immune suppression.

In Vivo Release of Zafirlukast from Electrospun Polyisobutylene-Based Fiber Mats to Reduce Capsular Contracture of Silicone Breast Prostheses

Silicone rubber tissue expanders and breast implants are associated with chronic inflammation, leading to the formation of fibrous capsules. If the inflammation is left untreated, the fibrous capsules can become hard and brittle and lead to formation of capsular contracture. When capsular contracture occurs, implant failure and reoperation is unavoidable. Fibrous capsule formation to medical grade silicone rubber breast implants and polyisobutylene-based electrospun fiber mats attached to silicone rubber with and without an anti-inflammatory therapeutic were compared. A linear polyisobutylene (PIB)-based thermoplastic elastomer is currently applied as a polymer coating for drug release on coronary stents to reduce restenosis. Recent work has created a drug releasing electrospun fiber mat from PIB-based materials. Important to this study, poly(alloocimene-b-isobutylene-b-alloocimene) (AIBA) was electrospun with zafirlukast (ZAF). ZAF is an anti-inflammatory drug that is able to reduce capsule formation and complications to silicone breast implants. Fiber mats are advantageous for local drug delivery because of their high porosity and surface area for drug release. The chief hypothesis was that local release of ZAF from AIBA would lower inflammatory signaling and resulting capsular formation after 90 days in vivo. Electrospun AIBA mats locally released ZAF, lowering inflammation and fibrous capsule development compared to medical grade silicone rubber. Locally and orally released ZAF led to similar results, but the former had much lower concentration that highlights local delivery's therapeutic potential. Released ZAF from AIBA fiber mats mitigated inflammation and serves as an alternative to existing clinical approaches.

Structural transitions enable interleukin-18 maturation and signaling

Several interleukin-1 (IL-1) family members, including IL-1β and IL-18, require processing by inflammasome-associated caspases to unleash their activities. Here, we unveil, by cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM), two major conformations of the complex between caspase-1 and pro-IL-18. One conformation is similar to the complex of caspase-4 and pro-IL-18, with interactions at both the active site and an exosite (closed conformation), and the other only contains interactions at the active site (open conformation). Thus, pro-IL-18 recruitment and processing by caspase-1 is less dependent on the exosite than the active site, unlike caspase-4. Structure determination by nuclear magnetic resonance uncovers a compact fold of apo pro-IL-18, which is similar to caspase-1-bound pro-IL-18 but distinct from cleaved IL-18. Binding sites for IL-18 receptor and IL-18 binding protein are only formed upon conformational changes after pro-IL-18 cleavage. These studies show how pro-IL-18 is selected as a caspase-1 substrate, and why cleavage is necessary for its inflammatory activity.

Navigating the Modern Landscape of Sepsis: Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment

Sepsis poses a significant threat to human health due to its high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Traditional diagnostic methods for identifying sepsis or its causative organisms are time-consuming and contribute to a high mortality rate. Biomarkers have been developed to overcome these limitations and are currently used for sepsis diagnosis, prognosis prediction, and treatment response assessment. Over the past few decades, more than 250 biomarkers have been identified, a few of which have been used in clinical decision-making. Consistent with the limitations of diagnosing sepsis, there is currently no specific treatment for sepsis. Currently, the general treatment for sepsis is conservative and includes timely antibiotic use and hemodynamic support. When planning sepsis-specific treatment, it is important to select the most suitable patient, considering the heterogeneous nature of sepsis. This comprehensive review summarizes current and evolving biomarkers and therapeutic approaches for sepsis.

Combining TIGIT Blockade with MDSC Inhibition Hinders Breast Cancer Bone Metastasis by Activating Antitumor Immunity

Bone is the most common site of breast cancer metastasis. Bone metastasis is incurable and is associated with severe morbidity. Utilizing an immunocompetent mouse model of spontaneous breast cancer bone metastasis, we profiled the immune transcriptome of bone metastatic lesions and peripheral bone marrow at distinct metastatic stages, revealing dynamic changes during the metastatic process. We show that cross-talk between granulocytes and T cells is central to shaping an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Specifically, we identified the PD-1 and TIGIT signaling axes and the proinflammatory cytokine IL1β as central players in the interactions between granulocytes and T cells. Targeting these pathways in vivo resulted in attenuated bone metastasis and improved survival, by reactivating antitumor immunity. Analysis of patient samples revealed that TIGIT and IL1β are prominent in human bone metastasis. Our findings suggest that cotargeting immunosuppressive granulocytes and dysfunctional T cells may be a promising novel therapeutic strategy to inhibit bone metastasis. Significance: Temporal transcriptome profiling of the immune microenvironment in breast cancer bone metastasis revealed key communication pathways between dysfunctional T cells and myeloid derived suppressor cells. Cotargeting of TIGIT and IL1β inhibited bone metastasis and improved survival. Validation in patient data implicated these targets as a novel promising approach to treat human bone metastasis.

Role of inflammasomes in endothelial dysfunction

The vascular endothelium dynamically responds to environmental cues and plays a pivotal role in maintaining vascular homeostasis by regulating vasomotor tone, blood cell trafficking, permeability and immune responses. However, endothelial dysfunction results in various pathological conditions. Inflammasomes are large intracellular multimeric complexes activated by pathogens or cellular damage. Inflammasomes in vascular endothelial cells (ECs) initiate innate immune responses, which have emerged as significant mediators in endothelial dysfunction, contributing to the pathophysiology of an array of diseases. This review summarizes the mechanisms and ramifications of inflammasomes in ECs and related vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, abdominal aortic aneurysm, stroke, and lung and kidney diseases. We also discuss potential drugs targeting EC inflammasomes and their applications in treating vascular diseases.

UK5099 Inhibits the NLRP3 Inflammasome Independently of its Long-Established Target Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier

Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome has been recognized as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of numerous common diseases. UK5099, a long-established inhibitor of mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC), is previously found to inhibit macrophage inflammatory responses independent of MPC expression. However, the mechanisms by which UK5099 inhibit inflammatory responses remain unclear. Here, it is shown that UK5099 is a potent inhibitor of the NLRP3 inflammasome in both mouse and human primary macrophages. UK5099 selectively suppresses the activation of the NLRP3 but not the NLRC4 or AIM2 inflammasomes. Of note, UK5099 retains activities on NLRP3 in macrophages devoid of MPC expression, indicating this inhibitory effect is MPC-independent. Mechanistically, UK5099 abrogates mitochondria-NLRP3 interaction and in turn inhibits the assembly of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Further, a single dose of UK5099 persistently reduces IL-1β production in an endotoxemia mouse model. Importantly, structure modification reveals that the inhibitory activities of UK5099 on NLRP3 are unrelated to the existence of the activated double bond within the UK5099 molecule. Thus, this study uncovers a previously unknown molecular target for UK5099, which not only offers a new candidate for the treatment of NLRP3-driven diseases but also confounds its use as an MPC inhibitor in immunometabolism studies.

Does Scheduled Low-Dose Short-Term NSAID (Ketorolac) Modulate Cytokine Levels After Orthopaedic Polytrauma? A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether scheduled low-dose, short-term ketorolac modulates cytokine concentrations in orthopaedic polytrauma patients.

METHODS

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Single Level I trauma center from August 2018 to October 2022.

PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA

Orthopaedic polytrauma patients between 18 and 75 years with a New Injury Severity Score greater than 9 were enrolled. Participants were randomized to receive 15 mg of intravenous ketorolac every 6 hours for up to 5 inpatient days or 2 mL of intravenous saline similarly.

OUTCOME MEASURES AND COMPARISONS

Daily concentrations of prostaglandin E2 and interleukin (IL)-1a, IL-1b, IL-6, and IL-10. Clinical outcomes included hospital and intensive care unit length of stay, pulmonary complications, and acute kidney injury.

RESULTS

Seventy orthopaedic polytrauma patients were enrolled, with 35 participants randomized to the ketorolac group and 35 to the placebo group. The overall IL-10 trend over time was significantly different in the ketorolac group ( P = 0.043). IL-6 was 65.8% higher at enrollment compared to day 3 ( P < 0.001) when aggregated over both groups. There was no significant treatment effect for prostaglandin E2, IL-1a, or IL-1b ( P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes between groups ( P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Scheduled low-dose, short-term, intravenous ketorolac was associated with significantly different mean trends in IL-10 concentration in orthopaedic polytrauma patients with no significant differences in prostaglandin E2, IL-1a, IL-1b, or IL-6 levels between groups. The treatment did not have an impact on clinical outcomes of hospital or intensive care unit length of stay, pulmonary complications, or acute kidney injury.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Single-cell analysis reveals lasting immunological consequences of influenza infection and respiratory immunization in the pig lung

The pig is a natural host for influenza viruses and integrally involved in virus evolution through interspecies transmissions between humans and swine. Swine have many physiological, anatomical, and immunological similarities to humans, and are an excellent model for human influenza. Here, we employed single cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) and flow cytometry to characterize the major leukocyte subsets in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), twenty-one days after H1N1pdm09 infection or respiratory immunization with an adenoviral vector vaccine expressing hemagglutinin and nucleoprotein with or without IL-1β. Mapping scRNA-seq clusters from BAL onto those previously described in peripheral blood facilitated annotation and highlighted differences between tissue resident and circulating immune cells. ScRNA-seq data and functional assays revealed lasting impacts of immune challenge on BAL populations. First, mucosal administration of IL-1β reduced the number of functionally active Treg cells. Second, influenza infection upregulated IFI6 in BAL cells and decreased their susceptibility to virus replication in vitro. Our data provide a reference map of porcine BAL cells and reveal lasting immunological consequences of influenza infection and respiratory immunization in a highly relevant large animal model for respiratory virus infection.

TLR2-dependent and independent pyroptosis in dTHP-1 cells induced by Actinomyces oris MG-1

In the immune system, the detection of pathogens through various mechanisms triggers immune responses. Several types of specific programmed cell deaths play a role in the inflammatory reaction. This study emphasizes the inflammatory response induced by Actinomycetes. Actinomyces spp. are resident bacteria in human oral plaque and often serve as a bridge for pathogenic bacteria, which lack affinity to the tooth surface, aiding their colonization of the plaque. We aim to investigate the potential role of Actinomyces oris in the early stages of oral diseases from a new perspective. Actinomyces oris MG-1 (A. oris) was chosen for this research. Differentiated THP-1 (dTHP-1) cells were transiently treated with A. oris to model the inflammatory reaction. Cell viability, as well as relative gene and protein expression levels of dTHP-1 cells, were assessed using CCK-8, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Western blot assay. The treatment decreased cell viability and increased the expression of inflammatory genes such as IL-1R1 and NLRP3. It was also observed to significantly enhance the release of IL-1β/IL-18 into the supernatant. Immunoblot analysis revealed a notable increase in the expression of N-gasdermin D persisting up to 24 h. Conversely, in models pre-treated with TLR2 inhibitors, N-gasdermin D was detectable only 12 h post-treatment and absent at 24 h. These results suggest that Actinomyces oris MG-1 induces pyroptosis in dTHP-1 cells via TLR2, but the process is not solely dependent on TLR2.

The Role of Bacterial Extracellular Membrane Nanovesicles in Atherosclerosis: Unraveling a Potential Trigger

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this review, we explore the intriguing and evolving connections between bacterial extracellular membrane nanovesicles (BEMNs) and atherosclerosis development, highlighting the evidence on molecular mechanisms by which BEMNs can promote the athero-inflammatory process that is central to the progression of atherosclerosis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily driven by metabolic and lifestyle factors; however, some studies have suggested that bacterial infections may contribute to the development of both atherogenesis and inflammation in atherosclerotic lesions. In particular, the participation of BEMNs in atherosclerosis pathogenesis has attracted special attention. We provide some general insights into how the immune system responds to potential threats such as BEMNs during the development of atherosclerosis. A comprehensive understanding of contribution of BEMNs to atherosclerosis pathogenesis may lead to the development of targeted interventions for the prevention and treatment of the disease.

BPOZ-2-deficient mice exhibit aggravated inflammation-associated tissue damage after acute dextran sodium sulfate or diethylnitrosamine exposure

An excessive inflammatory response plays an important role in pathological tissue damage associated with pathogen infection and tumorigenesis. Blood POZ-containing gene type 2 (BPOZ-2), an adaptor protein for the E3 ubiquitin ligase scaffold protein CUL3, is a negative regulator of the inflammatory response. In this study, we investigated the pathophysiological functions of BPOZ-2 in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colon injury and diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver damage. Our results indicated that BPOZ-2 deficiency increased IL-1β induction after DSS and DEN treatment. In addition, BPOZ-2-deficient mice were more susceptible to DSS-induced colitis. Notably, BPOZ-2 deficiency aggravated DEN-induced acute liver injury. These results revealed that BPOZ-2 protected against pathological tissue damage with a dysregulated inflammatory response.

Species-specific IL-1β is an inflammatory sensor of Seneca Valley Virus 3C Protease

Inflammasomes play pivotal roles in inflammation by processing and promoting the secretion of IL-1β. Caspase-1 is involved in the maturation of IL-1β and IL-18, while human caspase-4 specifically processes IL-18. Recent structural studies of caspase-4 bound to Pro-IL-18 reveal the molecular basis of Pro-IL-18 activation by caspase-4. However, the mechanism of caspase-1 processing of pro-IL-1β and other IL-1β-converting enzymes remains elusive. Here, we observed that swine Pro-IL-1β (sPro-IL-1β) exists as an oligomeric precursor unlike monomeric human Pro-IL-1β (hPro-IL-1β). Interestingly, Seneca Valley Virus (SVV) 3C protease cleaves sPro-IL-1β to produce mature IL-1β, while it cleaves hPro-IL-1β but does not produce mature IL-1β in a specific manner. When the inflammasome is blocked, SVV 3C continues to activate IL-1β through direct cleavage in porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs). Through molecular modeling and mutagenesis studies, we discovered that the pro-domain of sPro-IL-1β serves as an 'exosite' with its hydrophobic residues docking into a positively charged 3C protease pocket, thereby directing the substrate to the active site. The cleavage of sPro-IL-1β generates a monomeric and active form of IL-1β, initiating the downstream signaling. Thus, these studies provide IL-1β is an inflammatory sensor that directly detects viral protease through an independent pathway operating in parallel with host inflammasomes.

Reduction of mortality, cardiac damage, and cerebral damage by IL-1 inhibition in a murine model of TTP

ABSTRACT

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), a rare but fatal disease if untreated, is due to alteration in von Willebrand factor cleavage resulting in capillary microthrombus formation and ischemic organ damage. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been shown to drive sterile inflammation after ischemia and could play an essential contribution to postischemic organ damage in TTP. Our objectives were to evaluate IL-1 involvement during TTP and to test the efficacy of the recombinant IL-1 receptor antagonist, anakinra, in a murine TTP model. We retrospectively measured plasma IL-1 concentrations in patients with TTP and controls. Patients with TTP exhibited elevated plasma IL-1α and -1β concentrations, which correlated with disease course and survival. In a mouse model of TTP, we administered anakinra (IL-1 inhibitor) or placebo for 5 days and evaluated the efficacy of this treatment. Anakinra significantly reduced mortality of mice (P < .001). Anakinra significantly decreased TTP-induced cardiac damage as assessed by blood troponin concentrations, evaluation of left ventricular function by echocardiography, [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography of myocardial glucose metabolism, and cardiac histology. Anakinra also significantly reduced brain TTP-induced damage evaluated through blood PS100b concentrations, nuclear imaging, and histology. We finally showed that IL-1α and -1β trigger endothelial degranulation in vitro, leading to the release of von Willebrand factor. In conclusion, anakinra significantly reduced TTP mortality in a preclinical model of the disease by inhibiting both endothelial degranulation and postischemic inflammation, supporting further evaluations in humans.

Emerging insights into the role of IL-1 inhibitors and colchicine for inflammation control in type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a prevalent chronic metabolic disorder, is closely linked to persistent low-grade inflammation, significantly contributing to its development and progression. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the inflammatory mechanisms underlying T2DM, focusing on the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in mediating inflammatory responses. We discuss the therapeutic potential of IL-1 inhibitors and colchicine, highlighting their mechanisms in inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome and reducing IL-1β production. Recent studies indicate that these agents could effectively mitigate inflammation, offering promising avenues for the prevention and management of T2DM. By exploring the intricate connections between metabolic disturbances and chronic inflammation, this review underscores the need for novel anti-inflammatory strategies to address T2DM and its complications.

IL18 rs360717 and rs187238 genetic variants are associated with migraine diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Migraine is a genetically determined disorder that predisposes to recurrent episodes of headache. Interleukin (IL)-18 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that seems to play a role in migraine pathophysiology, and its genetic variants could potentially impact susceptibility to migraine.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between IL18 rs360717 and rs187238 genetic variants with migraine diagnosis and its clinical characteristics.

METHODS

A case-control study was conducted with 152 people with migraine and 155 healthy controls, matched by sex, age, ethnicity, and body mass index. Clinical characteristics of migraine, as well as validated questionnaires regarding disability and impact of migraine, presence of allodynia, anxiety, depression, and hyperacusis were collected. Genotyping for IL18 rs360717 and rs187238 variants was performed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and TaqMan™ method.

RESULTS

The IL18 rs360717A and rs187238G alleles were associated with increased chance of being diagnosed with migraine (OR = 1.53, 95%CI 1.05-2.24, p = 0.028 and OR = 1.46, 95%CI 1.00-2.14, p = 0.049, respectively). In the dominant model, the rs360717GA + AA genotypes were also associated with a higher chance of migraine than the GG genotype (OR = 1.69, 95%CI 1.05-2.73, p = 0.030). In women, in addition to the previous associations, there was also an effect of the variants on the chance of migraine in the codominant models and dominant models. Furthermore, among women, there was an influence on the prevalence of postdrome perception with rs360717GA + AA (OR = 3.04, 95%CI 1.10-8.42, p = 0.032) and rs187238CG + GG (OR = 2.97, 95%CI 1.08-8.21, p = 0.035).

CONCLUSION

IL18 rs360717 and rs187238 variants were associated with migraine diagnosis and postdrome symptoms, especially in women.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study has demonstrated that IL18 rs360717 and rs187238 variants play a role in migraine, influencing the chance of being diagnosed with migraine, particularly among women. There are prospects that IL18 variants could be considered potential genetic biomarkers for migraine.

Repeat controlled human Plasmodium falciparum infections delay bloodstream patency and reduce symptoms

Resistance to clinical malaria takes years to develop even in hyperendemic regions and sterilizing immunity has rarely been observed. To evaluate the maturation of the host response against controlled repeat exposures to P. falciparum (Pf) NF54 strain-infected mosquitoes, we systematically monitored malaria-naïve participants through an initial exposure to uninfected mosquitoes and 4 subsequent homologous exposures to Pf-infected mosquitoes over 21 months (n = 8 males) (ClinicalTrials.gov# NCT03014258). The primary outcome was to determine whether protective immunity against parasite infection develops following repeat CHMI and the secondary outcomes were to track the clinical signs and symptoms of malaria and anti-Pf antibody development following repeat CHMI. After two exposures, time to blood stage patency increases significantly and the number of reported symptoms decreases indicating the development of clinical tolerance. The time to patency correlates positively with both anti-Pf circumsporozoite protein (CSP) IgG and CD8 + CD69+ effector memory T cell levels consistent with partial pre-erythrocytic immunity. IFNγ levels decrease significantly during the participants' second exposure to high blood stage parasitemia and could contribute to the decrease in symptoms. In contrast, CD4-CD8 + T cells expressing CXCR5 and the inhibitory receptor, PD-1, increase significantly after subsequent Pf exposures, possibly dampening the memory response and interfering with the generation of robust sterilizing immunity.

Inflammation accelerating intestinal fibrosis: from mechanism to clinic

Intestinal fibrosis is a prevalent complication of IBD that that can frequently be triggered by prolonged inflammation. Fibrosis in the gut can cause a number of issues, which continue as an ongoing challenge to healthcare systems worldwide. The primary causes of intestinal fibrosis are soluble molecules, G protein-coupled receptors, epithelial-to-mesenchymal or endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and the gut microbiota. Fresh perspectives coming from in vivo and in vitro experimental models demonstrate that fibrogenic pathways might be different, at least to some extent, independent of the ones that influence inflammation. Understanding the distinctive procedures of intestinal fibrogenesis should provide a realistic foundation for targeting and blocking specific fibrogenic pathways, estimating the risk of fibrotic consequences, detecting early fibrotic alterations, and eventually allowing therapy development. Here, we first summarize the inflammatory and non-inflammatory components of fibrosis, and then we elaborate on the underlying mechanism associated with multiple cytokines in fibrosis, providing the framework for future clinical practice. Following that, we discuss the relationship between modernization and disease, as well as the shortcomings of current studies. We outline fibrosis diagnosis and therapy, as well as our recommendations for the future treatment of intestinal fibrosis. We anticipate that the global review will provides a wealth of fresh knowledge and suggestions for future fibrosis clinical practice.

Pyroptosis: A spoiler of peaceful coexistence between cells in degenerative bone and joint diseases

BACKGROUND

As people age, degenerative bone and joint diseases (DBJDs) become more prevalent. When middle-aged and elderly people are diagnosed with one or more disorders such as osteoporosis (OP), osteoarthritis (OA), and intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), it often signals the onset of prolonged pain and reduced functionality. Chronic inflammation has been identified as the underlying cause of various degenerative diseases, including DBJDs. Recently, excessive activation of pyroptosis, a form of programed cell death (PCD) mediated by inflammasomes, has emerged as a primary driver of harmful chronic inflammation. Consequently, pyroptosis has become a potential target for preventing and treating DBJDs.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review explored the physiological and pathological roles of the pyroptosis pathway in bone and joint development and its relation to DBJDs. Meanwhile, it elaborated the molecular mechanisms of pyroptosis within individual cell types in the bone marrow and joints, as well as the interplay among different cell types in the context of DBJDs. Furthermore, this review presented the latest compelling evidence supporting the idea of regulating the pyroptosis pathway for DBJDs treatment, and discussed the potential, limitations, and challenges of various therapeutic strategies involving pyroptosis regulation.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

In summary, an interesting identity for the unregulated pyroptosis pathway in the context of DBJDs was proposed in this review, which was undertaken as a spoiler of peaceful coexistence between cells in a degenerative environment. Over the extended course of DBJDs, pyroptosis pathway perpetuated its activity through crosstalk among pyroptosis cascades in different cell types, thus exacerbating the inflammatory environment throughout the entire bone marrow and joint degeneration environment. Correspondingly, pyroptosis regulation therapy emerged as a promising option for clinical treatment of DBJDs.

Influence of differing levels of concentrate on circulating cytokine concentrations in beef heifers

Components of the immune system (e.g., cytokines and chemokines) can influence reproductive efficiency. Characterizing the influence nutrition has on shifts in circulating cytokine concentrations will allow for a better understanding of reproductive efficiency in beef cattle. This study aimed to determine the effect of diet composition on circulating cytokine concentrations of beef heifers. Using a 3 × 3 Latin square design, pubertal Bos taurus-influenced rumen-cannulated heifers (n = 15) were fed a diet based on different concentrate percentages. The treatment period consisted of 28-d feeding periods with a washout interval of 21 d. Treatment groups were fed 100% grass hay (high forage; HF), 60% grass hay with 40% corn-based concentrate (intermediate; INT), and 25% grass hay with 75% corn-based concentrate (high grain; HG). Heifers were offered 2% of their body weight in feed daily. Blood was collected on days 0 and 28 of the treatment period for cytokine analysis. Plasma cytokine concentrations were quantified using RayBiotech Quantibody Bovine Cytokine Array Q1 kit according to manufacturer instructions. Concentrations of interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP10) linearly decreased with an increased concentrate diet (P = 0.037). Concentrations of IP10 differed for heifers consuming HF diet vs. HG diet (3,069.52 vs. 1,001.84 ± 669.01 pg/mL, respectively) and heifers consuming INT diet vs. HG diet (2,886.77 vs. 1,001.84 ± 669.01 pg/mL, respectively); however, there were no significant differences in IP10 concentrations between HF and INT heifers. There was a tendency for interleukin-1 family member 5 (IL1F5) concentrations to be lower for heifers consuming the HG diet compared to INT diet (P = 0.08). Results suggest that heifers consuming a high-concentrate diet have lower concentrations of IP10 and IL1F5. Additional research is necessary to better understand the dietary influence on the immune system in developing heifers.

Differential protective impact of peptide vaccine formulae targeting the lung- and liver-stage of challenge Schistosoma mansoni infection in mice

The study aimed to elicit protective immune responses against murine schistosomiasis mansoni at the parasite lung- and liver stage. Two peptides showing amino acid sequence similarity to gut cysteine peptidases, which induce strong memory immune effectors in the liver, were combined with a peptide based on S. mansoni thioredoxin peroxidase (TPX), a prominent lung-stage schistosomula excretory-secretory product, and alum as adjuvant. Only one of the 2 cysteine peptidases-based peptides in a multiple antigenic peptide construct (MAP-3 and MAP-4) appeared to adjuvant protective immune responses induced by the TPX peptide in a MAP form. Production of TPX MAP-specific IgG1 serum antibodies, and increase in lung interleukin-1 (IL-1), uric acid, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content were associated with significant (P < 0.05) 50 % reduction in recovery of lung-stage larvae. Increase in lung triglycerides and cholesterol levels appeared to provide the surviving worms with nutrients necessary for a stout double lipid bilayer barrier at the parasite-host interface. Surviving worms-released products elicited memory responses to the MAP-3 immunogen, including production of specific IgG1 antibodies and increase in liver IL-33 and ROS. Reduction in challenge worm burden recorded 45 days post infection did not exceed 48 % associated with no differences in parasite egg counts in the host liver and small intestine compared to unimmunized adjuvant control mice. Alum adjuvant assisted the second peptide, MAP-4, in production of IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b and IgA specific antibodies and increase in liver ROS, but with no protective potential, raising doubt about the necessity of adjuvant addition. Accordingly, different vaccine formulas containing TPX MAP and 1, 2 or 3 cysteine peptidases-derived peptides with or without alum were used to immunize parallel groups of mice. Compared to unimmunized control mice, significant (P < 0.05 to < 0.005) 22 to 54 % reduction in worm burden was recorded in the different groups associated with insignificant changes in parasite egg output. The results together indicated that a schistosomiasis vaccine able to entirely prevent disease and halt its transmission still remains elusive.

Functional role of TrIL-1β in Takifugu rubripes defense against Cryptocaryon irritans infection

The Japanese puffer, Takifugu rubripes, is a commercially important fish species in China that is under serious threat from white spot disease (cyptocaryoniasis), which leads to heavy economic losses. We previously found that interleukin-1β (IL-1β), an important cytokine with a potential role in resistance against pathogens, was one of the most significantly differentially up-regulated proteins in the gills and spleen of T. rubripes infected by the protozoan parasite Cryptocaryon irritans. In this study, we assessed the potential function of T. rubripes IL-1β (TrIL-1β) in fish infected with C. irritans. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the TrIL-1β protein sequence was most closely related to that of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) (67.2 %). The incubation experiments revealed that TrIL-1β may reduce trophont activity by destroying membranes. Immunofluorescence experiments showed that recombinant TrIL-1β promoted the expression of endogenous IL-1β, which penetrated and disrupted the cell membranes of trophonts. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the IL-1β group had less tissue damage compared with control groups of fish. IL-1β-small interfering RNA and IL-1β overexpression experiments were performed in head kidney primary cells, and challenge experiments were performed in vitro. Quantitative RT-PCR results showed that TrIL-1β regulated and activated MyD88/NF-κB and MyD88/MAPK/p38 signaling pathways during C. irritans infection. TrIL-1β also promoted the differential expression of IgM, showing that it was involved in humoral immunity of T. rubripes. The cumulative mortality experiment show that TrIL-1β could protect fish against C. irritans infection. These results enrich current knowledge about the molecular structure of TrIL-1β. They also suggested that recombinant TrIL-1β could be used as an adjuvant in a subunit vaccine against C. irritans infection, which is of profound importance for the prevention and control of parasitic diseases in T. rubripes.

Computer modeling of the peculiarities in the interaction of IL-1 with its receptors in schizophrenia

One of the primary theories regarding the development of schizophrenia revolves around genetics, indicating the involvement of hereditary factors in various processes, including inflammation. Research has demonstrated that inflammatory reactions occurring in microglia can impact the progression of the disease. It has also been established that genetically determined changes in IL-1 can contribute to schizophrenia, thereby confirming the role of the IL-1 gene cluster in disease susceptibility. The aim of this study is a computer-based assessment of the structural interactions of IL-1 proteins with their receptors in schizophrenia. The study utilized the DisGeNET database, enabling the assessment of the reliability of identified IL-1 polymorphisms. Polymorphisms were also sought using NCBI PubMed. The NCBI Protein service was employed to search for and analyze the position of the identified polymorphisms on the chromosome. Structures for modeling were extracted from the Protein Data Bank database. Protein modeling was conducted using the SWISS-MODEL server, and protein interaction modeling was performed using PRISM. Notably, this study represents the first prediction of the interactions of IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL- 1RA proteins, taking into account the presence of single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with schizophrenia in the sequence of the corresponding genes. The results indicate that the presence of SNP rs315952 in the IL-1RA protein gene, associated with schizophrenia, may lead to a weakening of the IL-1RA binding to receptors, potentially triggering the initiation of the IL-1 signaling pathway by disrupting or weakening the IL-1RA binding to receptors and facilitating the binding of IL-1 to them. Such alterations could potentially lead to a change in the immune response. The data obtained contribute theoretically to the development of ideas about the molecular mechanisms through which hereditary factors in schizophrenia influence the interactions of proteins of the IL-1 family, which play an important role in the processes of the immune system.

Tumor Necrosis Factor and Interleukin Modulators for Pathologic Pain States: A Narrative Review

Chronic pain, a complex and debilitating condition, involves intricate interactions between central and peripheral inflammatory processes. Cytokines, specifically tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukins (IL), are key mediators in the initiation and maintenance of chronic pain states. Sensory neurons expressing receptors for cytokines like TNF, IL-1, and IL-6 are implicated in peripheral sensitization, contributing to increased signaling of painful sensations. The potential of targeting TNF and IL for therapeutic intervention in chronic pain states is the focus of this review, with preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the use of TNF and IL modulators for pain management. The physiological and pathological roles of TNF in neuropathic pain is complex. Experimental evidence highlights the effectiveness of TNF modulation in mitigating pain symptoms in animal models and displays promising outcomes of clinical trials with TNF inhibitors, such as infliximab and etanercept. ILs, a diverse group of cytokines, including IL-1, IL-6, and IL-17, are discussed for their contributions to chronic pain through inflammation and peripheral sensitization. Specific IL modulators, such as secukinumab and tocilizumab, have shown potential in managing chronic neuropathic pain, as demonstrated in various studies and clinical trials. The pharmacokinetics, safety profiles, and challenges associated with TNF and IL modulators highlight the need for cautious medication monitoring in clinical practice. Comparative evaluations have revealed distinct efficacy and safety profiles among different cytokine modulators, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches based on the specific underlying causes of pain. Further research is necessary to elucidate the intricate mechanisms by which cytokines contribute to chronic pain, as well as to understand why they may affect pain differently in various contexts. Additionally, long-term safety profiles of cytokine modulators require more thorough investigation. This continued exploration holds the promise of enhancing our comprehension of cytokine modulation in chronic pain and shaping more potent therapeutic strategies for the future.

Exploring the Impact of Different Inflammatory Cytokines on Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global health concern affecting millions worldwide. Chronic HCV infection often leads to liver inflammation and can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Inflammatory cytokines are crucial in modulating the immune response during HCV infection. This review aims to investigate the impact of different inflammatory cytokines on HCV infection and associated immune responses. This review was conducted to identify relevant studies on the interplay between inflammatory cytokines and HCV infection. The analysis focused on the effects of key inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), on HCV replication, immune cell activation, and liver inflammation. The findings reveal that these inflammatory cytokines can significantly influence HCV infection and the subsequent immune response. TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1 have been shown to enhance HCV replication, while IFN-γ exerts antiviral effects by inhibiting viral replication and promoting immune cell-mediated clearance of infected hepatocytes. Moreover, these cytokines contribute to the recruitment and activation of immune cells, such as natural killer cells, T cells, and macrophages, which play critical roles in controlling HCV infection. Understanding the precise mechanisms by which inflammatory cytokines impact HCV infection is crucial for developing more targeted therapeutic strategies. Modulating the levels or activity of specific cytokines may provide opportunities to attenuate HCV replication, reduce liver inflammation, and improve treatment outcomes. In conclusion, this review highlights the significance of inflammatory cytokines in influencing HCV infection and associated immune responses.