CD4CD25 regulatory T lymphocytes in allergy and asthma

Systemic Inflammatory Proteomic Biomarkers in Atopic Dermatitis: Exploring Potential Indicators for Disease Severity

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory cutaneous disorder, that emerges from intricate interplays among genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, environmental factors, and compromised skin barrier. Understanding the inflammatory pathway in AD is important due to its fundamental role in the pathogenesis of AD. This study aimed to explore the diverse spectrum of proteins linked to the inflammation of AD and the relationship between systemic biomarkers and clinical severity in AD.

METHODS

We examined the blood samples from 48 patients with AD and 48 healthy controls (HCs) using the Proximity Extension Assay (Olink). Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified and Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to determine systemic proteomic biomarkers associated with severity of AD.

RESULTS

A total of 29 DEPs were significantly up-regulated and 2 DEPs were significantly down-regulated in AD compared with the HC. The MCP-4, IL-18, MCP-3, TNFRSF9, and IL-17C were the top 5 highest DEPs associated with the severity of AD.

CONCLUSION

Our study sheds light on the intricate network of inflammatory proteins in AD and their potential implications for disease severity. Our results indicate that these systemic inflammatory proteins could be valuable for assessing AD severity and enhancing our understanding of the disease's complexity and its potential management strategies.

SCGB1C1 Plays a Critical Role in Suppression of Allergic Airway Inflammation through the Induction of Regulatory T Cell Expansion

The nanosized vesicles secreted from various cell types into the surrounding extracellular space are called extracellular vesicles (EVs). Although mesenchymal stem cell-derived EVs are known to have immunomodulatory effects in asthmatic mice, the role of identified pulmonary genes in the suppression of allergic airway inflammation remains to be elucidated. Moreover, the major genes responsible for immune regulation in allergic airway diseases have not been well documented. This study aims to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of secretoglobin family 1C member 1 (SCGB1C1) on asthmatic mouse models. C57BL/6 mice were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) using intraperitoneal injection and were intranasally challenged with OVA. To evaluate the effect of SCGB1C1 on allergic airway inflammation, 5 μg/50 μL of SCGB1C1 was administrated intranasally before an OVA challenge. We evaluated airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), total inflammatory cells, eosinophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), lung histology, serum immunoglobulin (Ig), the cytokine profiles of BALF and lung-draining lymph nodes (LLN), and the T cell populations in LLNs. The intranasal administration of SCGB1C1 significantly inhibited AHR, the presence of eosinophils in BALF, eosinophilic inflammation, goblet cell hyperplasia in the lung, and serum total and allergen-specific IgE. SCGB1C1 treatment significantly decreased the expression of interleukin (IL)-5 in the BALF and IL-4 in the LLN, but significantly increased the expression of IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in the BALF. Furthermore, SCGB1C1 treatment notably increased the populations of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in asthmatic mice. The intranasal administration of SCGB1C1 provides a significant reduction in allergic airway inflammation and improvement of lung function through the induction of Treg expansion. Therefore, SCGB1C1 may be the major regulator responsible for suppressing allergic airway inflammation.

The causality between systemic inflammatory regulators and chronic respiratory diseases: A bidirectional Mendelian-randomization study

INTRODUCTION

Accumulative evidence suggests the associations between systemic inflammatory regulators and chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs). However, the intrinsic causation remains implicit. Therefore, this study aimed to examine causative associations by mendelian randomization (MR) and to identify valuable active factors.

METHODS

Based on data from the GWAS database, we performed MR analyses of 41 serum cytokines from 8,293 Finnish and European descent cohorts from GBMI and UKBB for five major CRDs. We mainly applied inverse variance weighted regression, supplemented by MR-Egger regression, weighted median, maximum likelihood, weighted mode, and simple mode algorithms. Moreover, sensitivity analyses were conducted using Cochrane's Q test, MR-Egger intercept, MR-PRESSO Global test and MR-Steiger filtering. Eventually, the consistency of MR results was assessed by leave-one-out.

RESULTS

Our results suggest that 12 genetically predicted systemic inflammatory regulators probably participate in the progression of CRDs, including four risk factors (IL-1RA, IL-4, MIP-1A, PDGF-BB) and one protective factor (IL-6) in IPF, two protective factors (SCF, SDF-1A) in COPD, and two protective factors (SCF, SDF-1A) in asthma, two protective factors (GROA, IL-2RA) were also included in asthma, whereas only one factor (HGF) was protective against bronchiectasis. Additionally, two protective factors (FGF-BASIC, G-CSF) were identified in sarcoidosis. Sensitivity analyses showed no horizontal pleiotropy and significant heterogeneity. Finally, based on the findings of inverse MR analysis, no inverse causal association was uncovered, confirming the robustness of results.

CONCLUSION

Our study unearths potential associations between systemic inflammatory modulators and common CRDs, providing new insights for inflammation-mediated CRD prevention and therapeutic approaches.

Discrepancy in the suppressive function of regulatory T cells in allergic asthmatic vs. allergic rhinitis subjects upon low-dose allergen challenges

Background

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) contribute to the maintenance of immunological tolerance. There is evidence of impaired function of these cells in people with asthma and allergy. In this study, we evaluated and compared the function of Tregs in allergic asthmatic and allergic non-asthmatic patients, both before and after low-dose allergen challenges.

Methods

Three groups of subjects were recruited for a baseline evaluation: healthy controls without allergy or asthma, allergic asthmatic subjects, and allergic non-asthmatic subjects. All of them were subjected to expiratory flow measurements, sputum induction, and blood sampling. In addition, both groups of allergic subjects underwent low-dose allergen challenges. Tregs were isolated from whole blood using CD4+CD25high and CD127low staining. The suppression function was measured by flow cytometry. The levels of IL-10, IFN-γ, IgG4, IgA, and TGF-β were measured using ELISA, and sputum Foxp3 was evaluated using qRT-PCR.

Results

The suppressive function of Tregs in healthy controls was significantly higher than in allergic asthmatic or allergic non-asthmatic subjects. Repeated exposure to low doses of allergen increased the suppressor function of Tregs in allergic non-asthmatic subjects but decreased it in allergic asthmatic subjects. Foxp3 gene expression was increased in induced sputum in allergic non-asthmatic subjects, whereas it did not change in asthmatic subjects. Serum IL-10 level was decreased in allergic asthmatic subjects after allergen challenge but not in allergic non-asthmatic subjects. IFN-γ level increased upon allergen challenge in allergic non-asthmatic subjects. IgG4 level was higher in allergic non-asthmatic subjects than in allergic asthmatic subjects.

Conclusions

Low-dose allergen challenges stimulate the suppressor function of Tregs in non-asthmatic allergic subjects but not in allergic asthmatic subjects.

Mesenchymal stromal cells and their small extracellular vesicles in allergic diseases: From immunomodulation to therapy

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have long been considered a potential tool for treatment of allergic inflammatory diseases, owing to their immunomodulatory characteristics. In recent decades, the medical utility of MSCs has been evaluated both in vitro and in vivo, providing a foundation for therapeutic applications. However, the existing limitations of MSC therapy indicate the necessity for novel therapies. Notably, small extracellular vesicles (sEV) derived from MSCs have emerged rapidly as candidates instead of their parental cells. The acquisition of abundant and scalable MSC-sEV is an obstacle for clinical applications. The potential application of MSC-sEV in allergic diseases has attracted increasing attention from researchers. By carrying biological microRNAs or active proteins, MSC-sEV can modulate the function of various innate and adaptive immune cells. In this review, we summarise the recent advances in the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs in allergic diseases, the cellular sources of MSC-sEV, and the methods for obtaining high-quality human MSC-sEV. In addition, we discuss the immunoregulatory capacity of MSCs and MSC-sEV for the treatment of asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis, with a special emphasis on their immunoregulatory effects and the underlying mechanisms of immune cell modulation.

Synergist for antitumor therapy: Astragalus polysaccharides acting on immune microenvironment

Various new treatments are emerging constantly in anti-tumor therapies, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. However, the efficacy is still not satisfactory. Astragalus polysaccharide is an important bioactive component derived from the dry root of Radix astragali. Studies found that astragalus polysaccharides have gained great significance in increasing the sensitivity of anti-tumor treatment, reducing the side effects of anti-tumor treatment, reversing the drug resistance of anti-tumor drugs, etc. In this review, we focused on the role of astragalus polysaccharides in tumor immune microenvironment. We reviewed the immunomodulatory effect of astragalus polysaccharides on macrophages, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, T lymphocytes, and B lymphocytes. We found that astragalus polysaccharides can promote the activities of macrophages, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, T lymphocytes, and B lymphocytes and induce the expression of a variety of cytokines and chemokines. Furthermore, we summarized the clinical applications of astragalus polysaccharides in patients with digestive tract tumors. We summarized the effective mechanism of astragalus polysaccharides on digestive tract tumors, including apoptosis induction, proliferation inhibition, immunoactivity regulation, enhancement of the anticancer effect and chemosensitivity. Therefore, in view of the multiple functions of astragalus polysaccharides in tumor immune microenvironment and its clinical efficacy, the combination of astragalus polysaccharides with antitumor therapy such as immunotherapy may provide new sparks to the bottleneck of current treatment methods.

Structures and Anti-Allergic Activities of Natural Products from Marine Organisms

In recent years, allergic diseases have occurred frequently, affecting more than 20% of the global population. The current first-line treatment of anti-allergic drugs mainly includes topical corticosteroids, as well as adjuvant treatment of antihistamine drugs, which have adverse side effects and drug resistance after long-term use. Therefore, it is essential to find alternative anti-allergic agents from natural products. High pressure, low temperature, and low/lack of light lead to highly functionalized and diverse functional natural products in the marine environment. This review summarizes the information on anti-allergic secondary metabolites with a variety of chemical structures such as polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, and peptides, obtained mainly from fungi, bacteria, macroalgae, sponges, mollusks, and fish. Molecular docking simulation is applied by MOE to further reveal the potential mechanism for some representative marine anti-allergic natural products to target the H1 receptor. This review may not only provide insight into information about the structures and anti-allergic activities of natural products from marine organisms but also provides a valuable reference for marine natural products with immunomodulatory activities.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Allergic Airway Disease

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been reported as promising candidates for the treatment of various diseases, especially allergic diseases, as they have the capacity to differentiate into various cells. However, MSCs itself have several limitations such as creating a risk of aneuploidy, difficulty in handling them, immune rejection, and tumorigenicity, so interest in the extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from MSCs are increasing, and many studies have been reported. Previous studies have shown that extracellular vesicles (EVs) produced by MSCs are as effective as the MSCs themselves in suppression of allergic airway inflammation through the suppression of Th2 cytokine production and the induction of regulatory T cells (Treg) expansion. EVs are one of the substances secreted by paracrine induction from MSCs, and because it exerts its effect by delivering contents such as mRNA, microRNA, and proteins to the receptor cell, it can reduce the problems or risks related to stem cell therapy. This article reviews the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs-derived EVs and their therapeutic implications for allergic airway disease.

Intranasally Administered Extracellular Vesicles from Adipose Stem Cells Have Immunomodulatory Effects in a Mouse Model of Asthma

Asthma is a chronic eosinophilic airway disease characterized by type 2 helper T cell-driven inflammation. Adipose stem cells (ASCs) and the ASC culture supernatant are known to improve allergic airway inflammation; however, the immunomodulatory effects of ASC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) on allergic airway diseases remain unclear. Thus, we assessed the effects of ASC-derived EVs on allergic airway inflammation in a mouse model of asthma. EVs were isolated from the culture supernatant of murine ASCs and characterized. Six-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) by intraperitoneal injection and challenged intranasally with OVA. Before the OVA challenge, 10 μg/50 μl of ASC-derived EVs was administered intranasally to the experimental group. ASC-derived EVs significantly attenuated airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in asthmatic mice (p = 0.023). ASC-derived EVs resulted in a remarkable reduction of the total number of inflammatory cells (p = 0.005) and eosinophils (p = 0.023) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), the degree of eosinophilic lung inflammation (p < 0.001), and the serum total and OVA-specific immunoglobulin (Ig)E (p = 0.048 and p = 0.001) and total IgG1 (p < 0.001). Interleukin- (IL-) 4 was significantly inhibited with ASC-derived EV pretreatment in the BALF and lung draining lymph nodes (LLNs) (p = 0.040 and p = 0.011). Furthermore, ASC-derived EV administration resulted in a significant increase of the regulatory T cell (Treg) populations in LLNs. ASC-derived EVs alleviated AHR and allergic airway inflammation caused by the induction of Treg expansion in a mouse model of asthma. There seems to be a role for ASC-derived EVs as a modifier in allergic airway disease.

Relationship between CCR5+FoxP3+ Treg cells and forced expiratory volume in 1 s, peak expiratory flow in patients with severe asthma

Introduction

Severe asthma is a special clinical problem. CD4⁺CD25^highCD127^lowFoxp3⁺ Tregs play a role in maintaining appropriate immunological response. It is a known fact that Treg cells with CCR5 expression represent strong suppressive activity. It has been shown that a low number or altered function of FoxP3⁺ Tregs is associated with the inflammatory process and airway obstruction in asthma.

Aim

To evaluate whether CCR5 Tregs expression and surface density on FoxP3⁺ Treg cells depend on the severity of asthma.

Material and methods

The study included 50 patients with asthma (25 with severe and 25 with mild-to-moderate asthma). The control group comprised 25 healthy volunteers. The phenotype of CD4⁺CD25^highCD127^lowFoxp3⁺CCR5⁺ cells was evaluated by multicolour flow cytometry. The degree of airflow obstruction was assessed by spirometry as forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁) and peak expiratory flow (PEF).

Results

The absolute count of FoxP3⁺ Treg cells in patients with severe asthma was significantly decreased in comparison with the control group. MFI (median fluorescence intensity) of CCR5 expression on FoxP3⁺ Treg cells was significantly decreased in severe asthma compared to the mild-to-moderate asthma and control groups. CCR5 expression on FoxP3⁺ Treg cells as MFI positively correlated with lung function parameters FEV₁% and PEF% in patients with severe asthma.

Conclusions

High CCR5 Tregs expression as MFI is associated with improved in lung function parameters: FEV₁% and PEF% in patients with severe asthma. The measurement of CCR5 expression on the surface of peripheral blood FoxP3⁺ Treg cells as MFI could be an additional tool to estimate the severity of asthma.

Flow cytometric analysis of T lymphocytes and cytokines in aqueous humor of patients with varicella zoster virus-mediated acute retinal necrosis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to investigate the aqueous humor (AH) T lymphocyte subsets and cytokines of acute retinal necrosis (ARN) to elucidate the immunologic inflammatory features of this disorder.

METHODS

Three patients with ARN infected with varicella zoster virus (VZV) who underwent multiple intravitreal injections of ganciclovir were enrolled in this study. The control group consisted of four non-infectious patients with acute anterior uveitis (AAU). Flow cytometric analysis was performed on the lymphocyte subsets from the AH and peripheral blood (PB) samples during the active phase of intraocular inflammation. Five inflammatory cytokines were measured in each AH sample and various clinical characteristics were also assessed.

RESULTS

VZV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in AH from all the ARN patients, who showed higher CD8+ T lymphocytes population in AH than the AAU patients (p = 0.006). CD4/CD8 ratios of T lymphocytes and the percentage of CD8 + CD25+ T lymphocytes in AH were significantly lower in ARN than in AAU (p = 0.006; p = 0.012). In the ARN patients, the percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in AH were higher than those found in PB. The percentage of CD4 + CD25+ T lymphocytes in AH was significantly higher than the proportion in PB in the AAU patients (p = 0.001). Immunoregulatory cytokine Interleukin-10 in AH was significantly elevated in the ARN patients in comparison with the case of the AAU patients (p = 0.036). In ARN, the copy number of VZV DNA in AH positively correlated with the percentage of CD8+ T lymphocytes in AH and negatively correlated with the CD4/CD8 ratio in AH during the course of disease treatment (p = 0.009, r = 0.92; p = 0.039, r = - 0.834).

CONCLUSION

The ARN patients caused by VZV had different intraocular T lymphocyte subsets and cytokines profile than those of the non-infectious patients. High percentages of CD8+ T lymphocytes and low CD4/CD8 T cell ratios may be a potential biomarker for diagnosis of viral-infectious uveitis. T lymphocytes examination at the inflammatory sites has the potential to become a useful research tool for differentiating viral and non-viral uveitis.

Isolation and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells in orthopaedics and the emergence of compact bone mesenchymal stem cells as a promising surgical adjunct

The potential clinical and economic impact of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is immense. MSCs act through multiple pathways: (1) as “trophic” cells, secreting various factors that are immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, proangiogenic, proliferative, and chemoattractive; (2) in conjunction with cells native to the tissue they reside in to enhance differentiation of surrounding cells to facilitate tissue regrowth. Researchers have developed methods for the extraction and expansion of MSCs from animal and human tissues. While many sources of MSCs exist, including adipose tissue and iliac crest bone graft, compact bone (CB) MSCs have shown great potential for use in orthopaedic surgery. CB MSCs exert powerful immunomodulatory effects in addition to demonstrating excellent regenerative capacity for use in filling boney defects. CB MSCs have been shown to have enhanced response to hypoxic conditions when compared with other forms of MSCs. More work is needed to continue to characterize the potential applications for CB MSCs in orthopaedic trauma.

Screening and Functional Pathway Analysis of Pulmonary Genes Associated with Suppression of Allergic Airway Inflammation by Adipose Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles

Background

Although mesenchymal stem cell- (MSC-) derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are as effective as MSCs in the suppression of allergic airway inflammation, few studies have explored the molecular mechanisms of MSC-derived EVs in allergic airway diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the lung associated with the suppression of allergic airway inflammation using adipose stem cell- (ASC-) derived EVs.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) by intraperitoneal injection and challenged intranasally with OVA. To evaluate the effect of ASC-derived EVs on allergic airway inflammation, 10 μg/50 μL of EVs were administered intranasally prior to OVA challenge. Lung tissues were removed and DEGs were compared pairwise among the three groups. DEG profiles and hierarchical clustering of the identified genes were analyzed to evaluate changes in gene expression. Real-time PCR was performed to determine the expression levels of genes upregulated after treatment with ASC-derived EVs. Enrichment analysis based on the Gene Ontology (GO) database and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were also performed to further identify the function of DEGs.

Results

Expression of paraoxonase 1 (PON1), brain-expressed X-linked 2 (Bex2), insulin-like growth factor binding protein 6 (Igfbp6), formyl peptide receptor 1 (Fpr1), and secretoglobin family 1C member 1 (Scgb1c1) was significantly increased in asthmatic mice following treatment with ASC-derived EVs. GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis showed that these genes were strongly associated with immune system processes and their regulation, cellular processes, single-organism processes, and biological regulation.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the DEGs identified in this study (PON1, Bex2, Igfbp6, Fpr1, and Scgb1c1) may be involved in the amelioration of allergic airway inflammation by ASC-derived EVs.

Application of Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Allergic Airway Diseases

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been reported to be promising candidates for the treatment of allergic airway diseases. However, MSCs themselves have several problems including immune rejection, risk of aneuploidy, difficulty of handling, and tumorigenicity. An increasing number of studies demonstrated that administration of conditioned media or extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by MSCs is as effective as the MSCs themselves in suppression of allergic airway inflammation. EVs can exert their effects by delivering their contents such as proteins, mRNAs, and microRNAs to recipient cells. Furthermore, the administration of MSCs-derived EVs may reduce potential safety risks associated with stem cell therapy, suggesting that MSCs-derived EVs may be a promising alternative to cell therapy for allergic airway diseases. This review examines the current understanding of the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs-derived EVs and its therapeutic implication for allergic airway diseases.

MiR-146a Promotes Tolerogenic Properties of Dendritic Cells and through Targeting Notch1 Signaling

BACKGROUND

MiR-146a has been shown to negatively regulate innate immune, inflammatory response and antiviral pathway, however, its role in the tolerogenic responses remains largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of miR-146a in the OVA-induced allergic inflammation of dendritic cells (DCs).

METHODS

Bone marrow-derived DCs (BMDCs) were treated with OVA (100 µg/ml) for 24 h. MiR-146a expressions were assessed by quantitative RT-PCR. BMDCs were transfected with miR-146a mimics or inhibitor. Cell surface markers were analyzed by flow cytometry. Cytokine levels were determined by ELISA assay. Mixed lymphocyte culture assay was adopted to assess CD4 + T-cell differentiation. The 3' UTR luciferase reporter assay was utilized to determine the miRNA target sequence.

RESULTS

OVA treatment significantly up-regulated miR-146a in BMDCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In the OVA-treated DCs, overexpression of miR-146a (mimics transfection) down-regulated the surface markers (CD80, CD86) and increased production of anti-inflammatory cytokines TGF-β1 and IL-10 but decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-12. MiR-146a overexpression promoted immature DC to induce regulatory T cells (Treg) differentiation. By contrast, transfection of miR-146a inhibitor into DC exhibited the opposite trends. Notch1 was a direct target of miR-146a, and Notch1 knock-down induced similar effects as miR-146a mimics transfection in BMDCs. Moreover, the effect of miR-146a inhibitor on OVA-induced DC was attenuated by Notch1 knock-down.

CONCLUSION

miRNA-146a promoted tolerogenic properties of DCs, at least partially, through targeting Notch1 signaling.

Influence of Vitamin D and Cotinine on T-Regulatory Cells and Asthma Severity in Children

Asthma is a common chronic respiratory diseases in children. Understanding the immune mechanisms of epigenetic factors may contribute to a better control of asthma. This study seeks to determine the effects of serum vitamin D and urine cotinine on asthma severity and on T regulatory cells (Tregs) and other immune-related factors such as CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, CD16/56, and anti-CD3 HLA-DR3. The study involved 34 children with asthma. Disease severity was assessed with the Asthma Control Test, spirometry, and the fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). The control group consisted of 18 healthy children. We found a significantly lower proportion of Tregs in the serum of asthmatic children compared with the control group (p < 0.002). There were no significant differences in the other immunological factors investigated. Nor was there any appreciable association between vitamin D or cotinine and the course of asthma, FeNO, Tregs, and the other immune factors. However, the percentage of Tregs was positively associated with the level of FeNO (p < 0.02). In conclusion, the study shows a role of T regulatory cells in the pathogenesis of asthma in children, but fails to show any influence of serum vitamin D or urine cotinine on disease course.

Dynamics of helper CD4 T cells during acute and stable allergic asthma

Asthma comprises heterogeneous clinical subtypes driven by diverse pathophysiological mechanisms. We characterized the modulation of the inflammatory environment with the phenotype, gene expression, and function of helper CD4 T cells among acutely exacerbated and stable asthma patients. Systemic Th2 immune deviation (IgE and Th2 cytokines) and inflammation (IL-6, CRP) were associated with increased Th17 cells during acute asthma. Th2/Th17 cell differentiation during acute asthma was regulated by the enhanced expression of transcription factors (c-MAF, IRF-4). The development of pathogenic Th2 cells during acute asthma was characterized by the secretion of inflammatory cytokines coupled with Th2 molecules and PPARγ expression. The acquisition of CD15S, CD39, CD101, and CCR4 contributed to the increased heterogeneity of Regulatory T cells during asthma. Two clusters were derived from above cytokines, CD4 T cell phenotypes, and clinical data. Cluster 1, characterized by high eosinophils, Th2 and ILC2 frequencies, and higher exacerbation rates, may represent Th2-high subtype. Cluster 2 represents a more complex subtype; it is constituted by higher neutrophils or Th17 frequencies, higher inhaled corticosteroids dose and poor asthma control. In conclusion, we characterized systematically and longitudinally Th2-high and non-Th2 asthma subtypes and the heterogeneity of CD4 T cells in stable and acute asthma.

The levels of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells in patients with allergic rhinitis

Background: The involvement of CD4⁺CD25⁺ regulatory T cells (CD4⁺CD25⁺ T_Regs) in allergic diseases was reported previously. However, it remains unclear whether CD4⁺CD25⁺ T_Regs are involved in allergic rhinitis (AR). Methods: Fresh whole blood from 20 patients with AR and 16 healthy donors was used to investigate the frequency of CD4⁺CD25⁺ and CD4⁺CD25^hi Treg cells using flow cytometry. In addition, serum total IgE (IU/mL) levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results: Patients with AR had fewer CD4⁺CD25⁺ Treg cells (2.80 ± 1.36% vs. 3.94 ± 0.97%, P < 0.01) and CD4⁺CD25^hi T_Regs (1.53 ± 0·62% vs. 2.00 ± 0.52%, P < 0.05) than control subjects. The number of CD4⁺CD25⁺ and CD4⁺CD25^hi T_Regs was correlated negatively with total immunoglobulin E levels (r = –0.79, P < 0.01 and r = –0.61, P < 0.01, respectively). Conclusion: Deficient regulatory T cells might play a role in the development of AR.

ATP/P2X7-NLRP3 axis of dendritic cells participates in the regulation of airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness in asthma by mediating HMGB1 expression and secretion

The ATP/P2X7 axis of dendritic cells (DCs) mediates the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and promotes secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 to induce T helper (Th) 2, Th17 differentiation in the pathogenesis of asthma. NLRP3 inflammasome also regulates high mobility protein 1 (HMGB1) release in DCs. Recent studies demonstrated the correlation between HMGB1 expression and airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness (AHR) in asthma. However, the relationship between the ATP/P2X7-NLRP3 axis and HMGB1 in DCs in asthma is still unclear. ATP, apyrase, Brilliant Blue G, BzATP, glibenclamide, and Z-YVAD-FMK were administered to ovalbumin (OVA)-induced murine asthmatic model. For in vitro studies, bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BMDCs) were primed with LPS and stimulated with the same reagents. Activation of the ATP/P2X7 axis aggravated airway inflammation and AHR in the lung and induced Th2, Th17 polarization in asthmatic mice. Inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome weakened cardinal features of asthma and blocked Th2, Th17 polarization. In vitro and vivo, ATP/P2X7 axis activated NLRP3 inflammasome and induced HMGB1 expression and release from DCs. Inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome reduced HMGB1 expression and release. The ATP/P2X7-NLRP3 axis of DCs participates in mediating airway inflammation, AHR, and promoting Th2, Th17 inflammatory responses in asthmatic mice by inducing HMGB1 expression and secretion.

Huai Qi Huang corrects the balance of Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 in an ovalbumin-induced asthma mouse model

The present study is designed to determine whether Huai Qi Huang has immunoregulatory effects on the (helper T (Th)) Th1/Th2 and regulatory T cell (Treg)/Th17 balance in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma model mice. Asthma model mice were constructed by OVA treatment and Huai Qi Huang was administered. The amount of migrated inflammatory cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from the OVA mice was counted. The total IgE in the sera was detected by the IgE ELISA kit. Cell suspensions from the lung were stained with antibodies specific for CD4 and the master transcription factors for Th1 (T-box expressed in T cells (T-bet)), Th2 (GATA-binding protein 3 (Gata-3)), Th17 (retinoic acid related orphan receptor γt (RORγt)), and Treg (forkhead box p3 (Foxp3)). The left lobe of the lung was used to prepare a single-cell suspension for flow cytometry to determine whether Huai Qi Huang influenced CD4⁺ T-cell subsets. Histological analyses were performed by using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The mRNA expression levels of the transcription factors were detected by using qRT-PCR. Huai Qi Huang inhibited infiltration of inflammatory cells into the lung, reduced influx of eosinophils (EOSs), lymphocytes (LYMs), neutrophils (NEUs), and macrophages (MACs) in the BALF, and decreased IgE in the serum in OVA-treated mice. Huai Qi Huang could regulate Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 via the re-balance of cytokine profiles and change the mRNA expression levels of the transcription factors, T-bet/Gata-3 and Foxp3/RORγt in OVA-treated mice. Our results showed that Huai Qi Huang could correct the imbalance of Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 in OVA-induced asthma model mice, indicating its effects on inhibiting the development and severity of asthma.

Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Is Not a Pivotal Regulator Responsible for Suppressing Allergic Airway Inflammation through Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

Background

Although indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO)-mediated immune suppression of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been revealed in septic and tumor microenvironments, the role of IDO in suppressing allergic airway inflammation by MSCs is not well documented. We evaluated the effects of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) on allergic inflammation in IDO-knockout (KO) asthmatic mice or asthmatic mice treated with ASCs derived from IDO-KO mice.

Methods and Findings

ASCs were injected intravenously in wild-type (WT) and IDO-KO asthmatic mice. Furthermore, asthmatic mice were injected with ASCs derived from IDO-KO mice. We investigated the immunomodulatory effects of ASCs between WT and IDO-KO mice or IDO-KO ASCs in asthmatic mice. In asthmatic mice, ASCs significantly reduced airway hyperresponsiveness, the number of total inflammatory cells and eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), eosinophilic inflammation, goblet hyperplasia, and serum concentrations of total and allergen-specific IgE and IgG1. ASCs significantly inhibited Th2 cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13, and enhanced Th1 cytokine (interferon-γ) and regulatory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β) in BALF and lung draining lymph nodes (LLNs). ASCs led to significant increases in regulatory T-cells (Tregs) and IL-10⁺ T cell populations in LLNs. However, the immunosuppressive effects of ASCs did not significantly differ between WT and IDO-KO mice. Moreover, ASCs derived from IDO-KO mice showed immunosuppressive effects in allergic airway inflammation.

Conclusions

IDO did not play a pivotal role in the suppression of allergic airway inflammation through ASCs, suggesting that it is not the major regulator responsible for suppressing allergic airway inflammation.

CD4(+)CD25(+) T Cells in primary malignant hypertension related kidney injury

CD4⁺CD25⁺ T cells are critical for maintenance of immunologic self-tolerance. We measured the number of CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells in the patients with primary malignant hypertension related kidney injury, to explore the molecular pathogenesis of this disease. We selected 30 patients with primary malignant hypertension related kidney injury and 30 healthy volunteers. Information on clinical characteristics and laboratory tests was obtained from each subject. The number of CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells and glomerular injury were assessed by flow cytometry and histopathology, respectively. Both serum IL-2, IL-4, and IL-6 and endothelial cell markers were analyzed by ELISA. ADAMTS13 antibody was detected by Western blotting. CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells were significantly reduced in patients with primary malignant hypertension related kidney injury compared to controls (P < 0.05). The number of CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells was negatively related to blood urea nitrogen, serum uric acid, proteinuria, and supernatant IL-4; whereas positively associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients. Gradually decreasing CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells were also found as increasing renal injury. Additionally, patients exhibited increasing supernatant IL-4, serum IL-2 and IL-6, endothelial cell markers, and anti-ADAMTS13 antibody compared with controls (all P < 0.05). CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells may play a key role in the pathogenesis of primary malignant hypertension related kidney injury.

MicroRNAs Involved in Asthma After Mesenchymal Stem Cells Treatment

Administration of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) significantly alleviates allergic airway inflammation. There are no studies that refer to the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) after the BM-MSCs treatment in airway allergic inflammation. We induced a mouse model of asthma and performed the transplantation of BM-MSCs. We analyzed aberrant miRNAs and key immune regulators using both miRNA and messenger RNA (mRNA) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) arrays. We identified that 296 miRNAs were differently expressed after the induction of asthma and/or the treatment of BM-MSCs, in which 14 miRNAs presented the reverse variation tendency between asthma induction and BM-MSCs transplantation. Mmu-miR-21a-3p, mmu-miR-449c-5p, and mmu-miR-496a-3p were further confirmed to be differently expressed with additional samples and quantitative real-time PCR. With an mRNA PCR array, we identified 19 genes to be involved in the allergy induction and the administration of BM-MSCs. Further target genes analysis revealed that mmu-miR-21a-3p was significantly correlated with the immune regulator activin A receptor, Type IIA (Acvr2a). Mmu-miR-21a-3p had opposite expression with Acvr2a after asthma and BM-MSCs treatment. Acvr2a had binding sites for miR-21a for both mice and human, suggesting that miR-21/Acvr2a axis is conserved between human and mice. Dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that mmu-miR-21a-3p negatively regulated the transcript of Acvr2a. In addition, has-miR-21a inhibitor significantly increased the expression of Acvr2a mRNA in BEAS-2B cells under lipopolysaccharide stimulation. Our results suggest that there were different miRNA and mRNA profiles after asthma induction and BM-MSCs treatment, and the miR-21/Acvr2a axis is an important mechanism for the induction of asthmatic inflammation.

CD4+CD25+ cells in multiple myeloma related renal impairment

CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells are critical regulators in almost all of the animal models of human organ-specific autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection and allergic diseases. We aimed to explore the role of CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma (MM) related renal impairment (RI). Thirty patients with MM related RI and 30 healthy volunteers were studied. The number of CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells was examined by flow cytometry. Clinical and laboratory data were collected from each subject. Glomerular injury was assessed by histopathology. Serum IL-2, IL-4 and IL-6 were analyzed by ELISA. CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells significantly decreased in MM related RI patients compared to the controls (P<0.05). CD4⁺CD25⁺ cell number was negatively associated with blood urea nitrogen (BUN), supernatant IL-4, serum IL-6, monoclonal immunoglobulin and β2-microglobulin, as well as bone marrow plasma cell percentage and proteinuria; whereas positively associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (all P < 0.05). CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells gradually decreased as the Clinic Stage increased. The number of CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells reduced in MM related RI patients, and was correlated with disease severity. CD4⁺CD25⁺ cells may play an important role in the pathogenesis of MM related RI.

CD4(+)CD25(-)Foxp3(+) T cells play a role in tuberculous hydrothorax rather than malignant hydrothorax

BACKGROUND

Foxp3(+) T cells regulate inflammation and tumorigenesis. However, little is known about the role of different subsets of Foxp3(+) T cells in malignant or tuberculous hydrothorax.

METHODS

The numbers of CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+), CD4(+)CD25(-)Foxp3(+) T cells and the levels of some inflammatory cytokines in patients with tuberculous hydrothorax, malignant hydrothorax, and healthy controls (HCs) were examined by flow cytometry and ELISA. The potential association between the numbers of different subsets of Foxp3 + T cells and the values of clinical measures were analyzed.

RESULTS

The numbers of peripheral blood CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) T cells were greater in malignant hydrothorax patients than in HCs, but fewer than those of hydrothorax in patients. The percentages of circulating IL-10(+) or LAP(+) CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) T cells were higher than in the hydrothorax in patients with malignant hydrothorax. The numbers of circulating CD4(+)CD25(-)Foxp3(+) T cells were significantly fewer in patients with tuberculous hydrothorax than in HCs, and both the numbers of circulating CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) and CD4(+)CD25(-)Foxp3(+) T cells were significantly fewer than in the hydrothorax in patients. Significantly higher percentages of circulating IL-10(+) or LAP(+) CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) and CD4(+)CD25(-)Foxp3(+) T cells were detected in tuberculous hydrothorax patients. The numbers of CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) and CD4(+)CD25(-)Foxp3(+) T cells were associated with hydrothorax adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels in tuberculous hydrothorax patients, while CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) T cells were associated with carcino-embryonic antigen (CEA) in malignant hydrothorax patients. The concentrations of serum IL-6 and TGF-β in the patients were significantly higher than that in the HCs, but lower than that in the corresponding hydrothorax. A similar pattern of IL-10 was observed in different groups, except that there was no significant difference in the levels of serum IL-10 between the tuberculous hydrothorax patients and HCs.

CONCLUSIONS

CD4(+)CD25(-)Foxp3(+) T cells, which have lower inhibitory function than CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) T cells, may play a role in tuberculous hydrothorax.

Prostaglandin E2 and Transforming Growth Factor-β Play a Critical Role in Suppression of Allergic Airway Inflammation by Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

Background

The role of soluble factors in the suppression of allergic airway inflammation by adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) remains to be elucidated. Moreover, the major soluble factors responsible for the immunomodulatory effects of ASCs in allergic airway diseases have not been well documented. We evaluated the effects of ASCs on allergic inflammation in asthmatic mice treated with a prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) inhibitor or transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) neutralizing antibodies.

Methods and Findings

Asthmatic mice were injected intraperitoneally with a PGE2 inhibitor or TGF-β neutralizing antibodies at approximately the same time as ASCs injection and were compared with non-treated controls. In asthmatic mice, ASCs significantly reduced airway hyperresponsiveness, the number of total inflammatory cells and eosinophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), eosinophilic inflammation, goblet cell hyperplasia, and serum total and allergen-specific IgE and IgG1. ASCs significantly inhibited Th2 cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13, and enhanced the Th1 cytokine (Interferon-γ) and regulatory cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β) in the BALF and lung draining lymph nodes (LLNs). ASCs engraftment caused significant increases in the regulatory T cell (Treg) and IL-10⁺ T cell populations in LLNs. However, blocking PGE2 or TGF-β eliminated the immunosuppressive effect of ASCs in allergic airway inflammation.

Conclusions

ASCs are capable of secreting PGE2 and TGF-β, which may play a role in inducing Treg expansion. Furthermore, treatment with a PGE2 inhibitor or TGF-β neutralizing antibodies eliminated the beneficial effect of ASCs treatment in asthmatic mice, suggesting that PGE2 and TGF-β are the major soluble factors responsible for suppressing allergic airway inflammation.

Therapeutic effects of R8, a semi-synthetic analogue of Vasicine, on murine model of allergic airway inflammation via STAT6 inhibition

This is a follow-up study of our previous work in which we screened a series of Vasicine analogues for their anti-inflammatory activity in a preventive OVA induced murine model of asthma. The study demonstrated that R8, one of the analogues, significantly suppressed the Th2 cytokine production and eosinophil recruitment to the airways. In the present study, we have been using two standard experimental murine models of asthma, where the mice were treated with R8 either during (preventive use) or after (therapeutic use) the development of asthma features. In the preventive model, R8 reduced inflammatory cell infiltration to the airways, OVA specific IgE and Th2 cytokine production. Also, the R8 treatment in the therapeutic model decreased methacholine induced AHR, Th2 cytokine release, serum IgE levels, infiltration of inflammatory cells into the airways, phosphorylation of STAT6 and expression of GATA3. Moreover, R8 not only reduced goblet cell metaplasia in asthmatic mice but also reduced IL-4 induced Muc5AC gene expression in human alveolar basal epithelial cells. Further, R8 attenuated IL-4 induced differentiation of murine splenocytes into Th2 cells in vitro. So, we may deduce that R8 treatment profoundly reduced asthma features by attenuating the differentiation of T cells into Th2 cells by interfering with the binding of IL-4 to its receptor in turn decreasing the phosphorylation of STAT6 and expression of GATA3 in murine model of asthma. These preclinical findings suggest a possible therapeutic role of R8 in allergic asthma.

Helicobacter pylori-Mediated Protection against Extra-Gastric Immune and Inflammatory Disorders: The Evidence and Controversies

A large number of studies link H. pylori infection with a reduced risk of developing extra-gastric conditions such as allergy, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease and multiple sclerosis. The strength of the evidence for these protective associations is quite variable, and published studies often do not agree. This review article discusses some of the reasons for these discrepancies, and the difficulties faced when designing studies. Examples of some protective disease associations are described in detail, where the evidence is most abundant and thought to be more reliable. The most convincing of these are supported by published mechanistic data, for example with animal models, or incidence of disease exacerbation in humans following H. pylori eradication. Although controversial, this field is very important as the prevalence of H. pylori is decreasing throughout the world whilst many chronic diseases are becoming more common. These trends are likely to continue in the future, therefore it is important that we fully understand if and how H. pylori confers protection.

The beneficial properties of marine polysaccharides in alleviation of allergic responses

Marine polysaccharides have been found as the principle component in cell wall structures of seaweeds or exoskeletons of crustaceans. Due to numerous pharmaceutical properties of marine polysaccharides such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antitumor, antiobesity, antidiabetes, anticoagulant, antiviral, immunomodulatory, cardioprotective, and antihepatopathy activities, they have been applied in many fields of biomaterials, food, cosmetic, and pharmacology. Recently, several marine polysaccharides such alginate, porphyran, fucoidan, and chitin and its derivatives have been evidenced as downregulators of allergic responses due to enhancement of innate immune system, alteration of Th1/Th2 balance forward to Th1 cells, inhibition of IgE production, and suppression of mast cell degranulation. This contribution, therefore, focuses on antiallergic properties of marine polysaccharides and emphasizes their potential application as bioactive food ingredients as well as nutraceuticals for prevention of allergic disorders.

CD(+)(4)CD(+)(25) Treg cells in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura associated with systemic lupus erythematosus patients

AIM

CD(+)(4)CD(+)(25) Treg cells are of critical importance for maintenance of tolerance. The purpose of the this study was to observe the number of CD(+)(4)CD(+)(25) Treg cells in the patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and to study pathogenesis of TTP with SLE.

METHODS

Seven patients with TTP associated with SLE and seven healthy volunteers were studied. The CD(+)(4)CD(+)(25) Treg cells were examined by flow cytometry. Clinical and laboratory data, such as urinary protein, serum creatinine, endothelial markers and immunologic serologics, were obtained from each patient and healthy volunteer. Glomerular injury was assessed by histopathology. Serum IL-2, IL-4, IL-6 and anti-endothelial cell antibody were analyzed by ELISA and anti-ADAMTS13 antibody were detected by Western blotting.

RESULTS

CD(+)(4)CD(+)(25) Treg cells significantly decreased in TTP with SLE patients compared with controls (p < 0.05). CD(+)(4)CD(+)(25) Treg cells are negatively correlated with blood urea nitrogen, serum uric acid, supernatant IL-4, and proteinuria, and positively with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in TTP with SLE patients. [Formula: see text] Treg cells gradually decreased as the severity of renal histology increased. Serum IL-2, IL-6, supernatant IL-4, anti-endothelial cell antibody, and anti-ADAMTS13 antibody significantly increased in TTP with SLE patients compared to those of the control groups (all p < 0.05). In contrast, serum levels of C3 were significantly decreased in TTP with SLE patients compared to those of the control groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

CD(+)(4)CD(+)(25) Treg cells are not only lower in TTP with SLE patients, but also are correlated with disease severity in TTP with SLE patients.CD(+)(4)CD(+)(25)Treg cells may play an important role in the pathogenesis of TTP with SLE.

The expression of a novel anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-35 and its possible significance in childhood asthma

Interleukin-35 (IL-35) is a novel anti-inflammatory cytokine and has been shown to play an important role in maintaining immune homeostasis. However, the effect of IL-35 on human asthma remains unclear. The present study is to investigate the expression and significance of IL-35 in childhood asthma. Forty-one asthmatic children and forty-two healthy controls were recruited in Qilu Children's Hospital of Shandong University. Serum total immunoglobulin E level was measured by radioimmunosorbent test. Peripheral blood eosinophils were counted using BC-5800 Automatic Blood Cell Analyzer. IL-35 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Serum IL-35, IL-4 and interferon-γ levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The correlations among the above indexes were also analyzed using Pearson's method. Our results showed that serum total IgE, eosinophil count and serum IL-4 were significantly increased in asthmatic children compared with control children, and serum IFN-γ level in asthmatic patients was obviously lower than that in healthy controls. We also found that there was an obviously positive correlation between serum IgE and IL-4 levels in asthmatic patients. In addition, significantly negative correlation was found between serum total IgE and IFN-γ levels. More importantly, we found that the expression of IL-35 mRNA and protein was both down-regulated in asthmatic children, and serum IL-35 level was inversely related to serum IL-4 level. Moreover, significantly positive correlation was also found between serum IL-35 and IFN-γ levels. The results suggest that the decreased expression of IL-35 could be involved in the pathogenesis of childhood asthma.

TGF- β: an important mediator of allergic disease and a molecule with dual activity in cancer development

The transforming growth factor- β (TGF- β ) superfamily is a family of structurally related proteins that includes TGF- β , activins/inhibins, and bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs). Members of the TGF- β superfamily regulate cellular functions such as proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and migration and thus play key roles in organismal development. TGF- β is involved in several human diseases, including autoimmune disorders and vascular diseases. Activation of the TGF- β receptor induces phosphorylation of serine/threonine residues and triggers phosphorylation of intracellular effectors (Smads). Once activated, Smad proteins translocate to the nucleus and induce transcription of their target genes, regulating various processes and cellular functions. Recently, there has been an attempt to correlate the effect of TGF- β with various pathological entities such as allergic diseases and cancer, yielding a new area of research known as "allergooncology," which investigates the mechanisms by which allergic diseases may influence the progression of certain cancers. This knowledge could generate new therapeutic strategies aimed at correcting the pathologies in which TGF- β is involved. Here, we review recent studies that suggest an important role for TGF- β in both allergic disease and cancer progression.

The effect of single dose of thymoquinone, the main constituents of Nigella sativa, in guinea pig model of asthma

Introduction: In previous studies, the relaxant and antihistaminic effects of thymoquinone, the main constituents of Nigella sativa, have been demonstrated on guinea pig tracheal chains. In the present study, the prophylactic effect of (IP) single dose of thymoquinone on tracheal responsiveness and lung inflammation of guinea pig model of asthma was examined.

Methods: Thirty guinea pigs were randomly divided to 3 groups; control (C), sensitized (S) and pretreated group with (TQ); 3 mg/kg, IP (S+TQ). Tracheal responsiveness to methacholine and ovalbumin (OA), total and differential cell count in bronchoalveolar lavage, lung pathological changes and blood Interleukin 4(IL-4) and Interferon gamma (IFNγ) level in three groups were measured.

Results: Increased tracheal responsiveness to methacholine and OA, lung lavage fluid white blood cell (WBC) and eosinophil count, IL-4 and IFN-γ levels and pathological changes were seen in sensitized group in comparison to control group (p<0.001 to p<0.05). Decreased tracheal responsiveness to methacholine and OA, pathological changes and bronchoalveolar lavage eosinophil were observed in S+TQ group compared to S group (p<0.001 to p<0.05). However, tracheal responsiveness to methacholine and OA, contractility, bronchoalveolar lavage WBC and eosinophil and most of pathological changes in S+TQ group were significantly higher than those in controls (p<0.01 to p<0.05).

Conclusion: These results showed the preventive effect of single dose of thymoquinone on guinea pig model of asthma.

Suppressive effect of compact bone-derived mesenchymal stem cells on chronic airway remodeling in murine model of asthma

New therapeutic strategies are needed in the treatment of asthma besides vaccines and pharmacotherapies. For the development of novel therapies, the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a promising approach in regenerative medicine. Delivery of compact bone (CB) derived MSCs to the injured lungs is an alternative treatment strategy for chronic asthma. In this study, we aimed to isolate highly enriched population of MSCs from mouse CB with regenerative capacity, and to investigate the impact of these cells in airway remodeling and inflammation in experimental ovalbumin-induced mouse model of chronic asthma. mCB-MSCs were isolated, characterized, labeled with GFP and then transferred into mice with chronic asthma developed by ovalbumin (OVA) provocation. Histopathological changes including basement membrane, epithelium, subepithelial smooth thickness and goblet cell hyperplasia, and MSCs migration to lung tissues were evaluated. These histopathological alterations were increased in ovalbumin-treated mice compared to PBS group (P<0.001). Intravenous administration of mCB-MSC significantly reduced these histopathological changes in both distal and proximal airways (P<0.001). We showed that GFP-labeled MSCs were located in the lungs of OVA group 2weeks after intravenous induction. mCB-MSCs also significantly promoted Treg response in ovalbumin-treated mice (OVA+MSC group) (P<0.037). Our studies revealed that mCB-MSCs migrated to lung tissue and suppressed histopathological changes in murine model of asthma. The results reported here provided evidence that mCB-MSCs may be an alternative strategy for the treatment of remodeling and inflammation associated with chronic asthma.

A synthetic compound, 4-acetyl-3-methyl-6-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)pyrano[3,4-c]pyran-1,8-dione, ameliorates ovalbumin-induced asthma

Eosinophilia is one of the characteristic signs of allergic inflammation. Massive migration of eosinophils to the airways can cause epithelial tissue injury, contraction of airway smooth muscle and increased bronchial responsiveness. Previously, we discovered a new compound, 1H,8H-pyrano[3,4-c]pyran-1,8-dione (PPY), derived from the fruit of Vitex rotundifolia L. and evaluated its anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic properties. In this study, we synthesized a new modified compound, 4-acetyl-3-methyl-6-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) pyrano[3,4-c]pyran-1,8-dione (PPY-345), which was based on the PPY skeleton, and we evaluated its anti-asthmatic effects. To evaluate the anti-asthmatic effect of PPY-345 in vitro, A549 lung epithelial cells were stimulated with TNF-alpha, IL-4 and IL-1-beta to induce the expression of CCL11 (Eotaxin), a chemokine involved in eosinophil chemotaxis. To characterize the anti-asthmatic properties of PPY-345 in vivo, we examined the influence of PPY-345 in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma model. PPY-345 treatments significantly reduced CCL11 secretion. PPY-345 treatment did not inhibit the translocation of NF-κB into the nucleus but suppressed the phosphorylation of signal transducers and activators of transcription 6 (STAT6). PPY-345 treatment significantly reduced airway hyperreactivity as measured by whole-body plethysmography. PPY-345 further reduced total cells, including eosinophil, macrophage and lymphocytes, in the BAL fluid, goblet cell hyperplasia and myosin light chain 2 positive smooth muscle cell area in the lung tissue. Additionally, PPY-345 significantly suppressed the levels of OVA-IgE present in the serum. These results suggested that PPY-345 could improve asthma symptoms in OVA-sensitized mice.

Tonsillar CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells from IgA nephropathy patients have decreased immunosuppressive activity in experimental IgA nephropathy rats

BACKGROUND/AIM

CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells are of critical importance for maintenance of tolerance. We showed that the number of CD4+CD25+ Treg cells was significantly lower in tonsils of patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN); however, the function of tonsillar CD4+CD25+ Treg cells in IgAN has not been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of tonsillar CD4+CD25+ Treg cells of IgAN patients on experimental IgAN in rats.

METHODS

Tonsillar CD4+CD25+ Treg cells were isolated by magnetic beads. A total of 2 × 10(6) CD4+CD25+ Treg cells were transferred into rats that were previously orally immunized over a period of 14 weeks and subsequently received an injection of BSA into the tail vein on 3 consecutive days. Urine protein and erythrocytes were measured. Glomerular injury was assessed by histopathology. Plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1), interleukin (IL)-6 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in mesangial cells of rats were examined by reverse transcription PCR. Serum IgA and C3 and supernatants of IL-2, IL-4 and IL-6 in splenic cells were analysed by ELISA. Transferred tonsillar CD4+CD25+ Treg cells were tracked by reverse transcription PCR and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

IgA deposition in the mesangial region and the glomerular planar area and the number of cells, levels of serum IgA and supernatant IL-2, IL-4 and IL-6 in splenic cells and PAI-1, IL-6 and TGF-β1 expression in renal mesangial cells of rats that received CD4+CD25+ Treg cells from IgAN patients were significantly higher than in rats that received CD4+CD25+ Treg cells from the control group, although they were dramatically lower compared with rats treated without CD4+CD25+ Treg cells. Transferred tonsillar CD4+CD25+ Treg cells migrated predominantly to secondary lymphoid organs but not to the kidneys.

CONCLUSION

Dysfunction of tonsillar CD4+CD25+ Treg cells may be an important cause of IgAN progression.

The DNA methylation inhibitor 5-azacytidine increases regulatory T cells and alleviates airway inflammation in ovalbumin-sensitized mice

BACKGROUND

Asthma is characterized as a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways associated with an enhanced TH2 response to inhaled allergens. CD4+ T regulatory (Treg) cells are controlled by the master transcription factor FoxP3 and strictly maintain peripheral immunotolerance. Epigenetic regulation of FoxP3 by DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, such as 5-azacytidine (Aza), can generate a steady supply of functional Treg cells. Therefore, we propose that Aza can augment Treg cells in vivo to prevent the pathogenesis of asthma.

METHODS

BALB/c mice were sensitized with chicken ovalbumin (OVA) and treated with different doses of Aza. Airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine, eosinophilia in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, circulating titers of OVA-specific IgG1 and IgE, and stimulating levels of TH2 cytokines from splenocytes were then determined. Cellular populations were examined by flow cytometry. PC61 antibody, which depletes CD25+ cells, was used to verify the role of CD25+ cells in Aza-induced tolerance.

RESULTS

Administration of Aza to OVA-sensitized mice diminished airway hyperreactivity, pulmonary eosinophilia, levels of OVA-specific IgG1 and IgE in serum, and secretion of TH2 cytokines from OVA-stimulated splenocytes in a dose-dependent manner. Percentages of CD25+ and FoxP3+ cells in the CD4+ cell population were notably increased in Aza-treated mice compared to sensitized control mice. Furthermore, the major symptoms of asthma were exacerbated by depleting CD25+ cells in Aza-treated mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Aza may have applications as a novel clinical strategy to increase the production of Treg cells in order to modulate the airway inflammation associated with asthma.

Transforming growth factor-beta1 in inflammatory airway disease: a key for understanding inflammation and remodeling

Airway diseases such as chronic rhinosinusitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder are characterized by inflammation and remodeling. Among inflammatory and extracellular matrix regulatory cytokines, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) stands central, as it possesses both important immunomodulatory and fibrogenic activities, and should be considered a key for understanding inflammation and remodeling processes. This review will briefly summarize the recent findings on the role of TGF-β1, from the view points of inflammation and remodeling, and discuss the role of TGF-β in the upper and lower airway diseases. This may reveal new perspectives in the understanding of airway inflammation and remodeling processes and may open innovative treatment strategies for the regulation of TGF-β1.

Mesenchymal stem cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells modulate T-cell phenotypes in allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) possess remarkable self-renewal capacity and the potential to differentiate into novel cell types, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). iPSC-MSCs have been shown to enhance tissue regeneration and attenuate tissue ischaemia; however, their contribution to the immune regulation of Th2-skewed allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study compared the immunomodulatory effects of iPSC-MSCs and bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) on lymphocyte proliferation, T-cell phenotypes and cytokine production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with AR, and investigated the possible molecular mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory properties of iPSC-MSCs.

METHODS

In co-cultures of PBMCs with iPSC-MSCs or BM-MSCs, lymphocyte proliferation was evaluated using 3H-thymidine (3H-TdR) uptake, carboxyfluorescein diacetate, succinimidyl ester (CFDA-SE) assays; the regulatory T-cell (Treg) phenotype was determined by flow cytometry, and cytokine levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The immunomodulatory properties of both MSCs were further evaluated using NS398 and transwell experiments.

RESULTS

Similar to BM-MSCs, we determined that iPSC-MSCs significantly inhibit lymphocyte proliferation and promote Treg response in PBMCs (P < 0.05). Accordingly, the cytokine milieu (IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13) in the supernatants of PBMCs changed significantly (P < 0.05). The immunomodulatory properties of iPSC-MSCs and BM-MSCs were associated with prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production and cell-cell contact.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate that iPSC-MSCs are capable of modulating T-cell phenotypes towards Th2 suppression through inducing Treg expansion, suggesting that iPSC-MSCs can be used as an alternative candidate to adult MSCs to treat allergic airway diseases.

Mesenchymal stem cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells modulate T-cell phenotypes in allergic rhinitis

Background

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) possess remarkable self-renewal capacity and the potential to differentiate into novel cell types, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). iPSC-MSCs have been shown to enhance tissue regeneration and attenuate tissue ischaemia; however, their contribution to the immune regulation of Th2-skewed allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma remains unclear.

Objective

This study compared the immunomodulatory effects of iPSC-MSCs and bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) on lymphocyte proliferation, T-cell phenotypes and cytokine production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with AR, and investigated the possible molecular mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory properties of iPSC-MSCs.

Methods

In co-cultures of PBMCs with iPSC-MSCs or BM-MSCs, lymphocyte proliferation was evaluated using 3H-thymidine (3H-TdR) uptake, carboxyfluorescein diacetate, succinimidyl ester (CFDA-SE) assays; the regulatory T-cell (Treg) phenotype was determined by flow cytometry, and cytokine levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The immunomodulatory properties of both MSCs were further evaluated using NS398 and transwell experiments.

Results

Similar to BM-MSCs, we determined that iPSC-MSCs significantly inhibit lymphocyte proliferation and promote Treg response in PBMCs (P < 0.05). Accordingly, the cytokine milieu (IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13) in the supernatants of PBMCs changed significantly (P < 0.05). The immunomodulatory properties of iPSC-MSCs and BM-MSCs were associated with prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production and cell–cell contact.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that iPSC-MSCs are capable of modulating T-cell phenotypes towards Th2 suppression through inducing Treg expansion, suggesting that iPSC-MSCs can be used as an alternative candidate to adult MSCs to treat allergic airway diseases.

Electroacupuncture Attenuates Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Asthma via Modulating CD4(+)CD25(+) Regulatory T Cells

A mouse pulmonary hypersensitivity experimental model that mimics human asthma was developed, and electroacupuncture (EA) treatment was shown to reduce allergic inflammatory processes. In addition, we also assessed whether the beneficial effects of EA on allergic asthma could be correlated with CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells (Treg). Cellular profiles and histopathologic analysis demonstrated that peribronchial and perivascular inflammatory cell infiltrates were significantly decreased in the EA-treated groups when compared to the OVA and anti-CD25 Ab-injected (Treg depletion) groups. Furthermore, total BAL cells were reduced in the EA groups when compared to other groups. Interestingly, the population of CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+)Tregs in pneumonocytes increased in EA-treated group when compared to OVA and Treg depletion groups. These results imply that EA stimulation at ST 36 may affect CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) Treg in an OVA-induced experimental model and may enhance Treg function by suppressing other T cells and limiting the immune response.

Potential association of DCBLD2 polymorphisms with fall rates of FEV(1) by aspirin provocation in Korean asthmatics

Aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is a clinical syndrome characterized by chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis and aspirin hypersensitivity. The aspirin-induced bronchospasm is mediated by mast cell and eosinophilic inflammation. Recently, it has been reported that the expression of discoidin, CUB and LCCL domain-containing protein 2 (DCBLD2) is up-regulated in lung cancers and is regulated by transcription factor AP-2 alpha (TFAP2A), a component of activator protein-2 (AP-2) that is known to regulate IL-8 production in human lung fibroblasts and epithelial cells. To investigate the associations between AERD and DCBLD2 polymorphisms, 12 common variants were genotyped in 163 AERD subjects and 429 aspirin tolerant asthma (ATA) controls. Among these variants, seven SNPs (rs1371687, rs7615856, rs828621, rs828618, rs828616, rs1062196, and rs8833) and one haplotype (DCBLD2-ht1) show associations with susceptibility to AERD. In further analysis, this study reveals significant associations between the SNPs or haplotypes and the percentage of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV(1)) decline following aspirin challenge using multiple linear regression analysis. Furthermore, a non-synonymous SNP rs16840208 (Asp723Asn) shows a strong association with FEV(1) decline in AERD patients. Although further studies for the non-synonymous Asp723Asn variation are needed, our findings suggest that DCBLD2 could be related to FEV(1)-related phenotypes in asthmatics.

MicroRNA-23b promotes tolerogenic properties of dendritic cells in vitro through inhibiting Notch1/NF-κB signalling pathways

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to regulate the inflammatory response in various cell types. However, the ability of miRNAs to modulate dendritic cells (DCs) function for allergen immunotherapy is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the role of miR-23b in the regulation of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced DC differentiation and function and to investigate the related molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) were generated from murine bone marrow progenitor cells and subsequently stimulated with OVA to examine the profile of miRNA expression. After transfection with miR-23b reagents, DCs were evaluated for endocytic ability, surface marker expression, cytokine secretion and CD4+ T-cell differentiation. The possible roles of the Notch and NF-κB signalling pathways were also evaluated. Human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MDDCs) were similarly evaluated as well.

RESULTS

Significant upregulation of miR-23b was observed in BMDCs pulsed with OVA. Following miR-23b transfection, BMDCs showed decreased OVA uptake, increased IL-10 production, decreased IL-12 production and an enhanced capacity to promote FoxP3+ CD4+ T regulatory cells (Tregs) differentiation. In addition, inactivation of the Notch1 and NF-κB signalling pathways were observed. Conversely, inhibition of miR-23b in BMDCs resulted in the opposite effects. In human MDDCs, miRNA23b transfection similarly increased IL-10 and decreased IL-12 production, and that treated human MDDCs induced increased FoxP3+ CD4+ T cells.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide evidence that miR-23b is capable of inducing tolerogenic DC activity and Treg responses in vitro through the inhibition of the Notch1 and NF-κB signalling pathways; thus, miR-23b might represent a therapeutic target for the management of allergic diseases.

Regulatory T cells accumulate in the lung allergic inflammation and efficiently suppress T-cell proliferation but not Th2 cytokine production

Foxp3⁺CD25⁺CD4⁺ regulatory T cells are vital for peripheral tolerance and control of tissue inflammation. In this study, we characterized the phenotype and monitored the migration and activity of regulatory T cells present in the airways of allergic or tolerant mice after allergen challenge. To induce lung allergic inflammation, mice were sensitized twice with ovalbumin/aluminum hydroxide gel and challenged twice with intranasal ovalbumin. Tolerance was induced by oral administration of ovalbumin for 5 consecutive days prior to OVA sensitization and challenge. We detected regulatory T cells (Foxp3⁺CD25⁺CD4⁺ T cells) in the airways of allergic and tolerant mice; however, the number of regulatory T cells was more than 40-fold higher in allergic mice than in tolerant mice. Lung regulatory T cells expressed an effector/memory phenotype (CCR4^highCD62L^lowCD44^highCD54^highCD69⁺) that distinguished them from naive regulatory T cells (CCR4^intCD62L^highCD44^intCD54^intCD69⁻). These regulatory T cells efficiently suppressed pulmonary T-cell proliferation but not Th2 cytokine production.