Interleukin-2 in the development and control of inflammatory disease

Changes in cerebrospinal fluid proteome of patients with tick-borne encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is one of the main diseases transmitted by ticks, the incidence of which is increasing. Moreover, its diagnosis and therapy are often long and difficult according to nonspecific symptoms and complex etiology. This study aimed to observe changes in the proteome of cerebrospinal fluid from TBE patients. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of TBE patients (n = 20) and healthy individuals (n = 10) was analyzed using a proteomic approach (QExactiveHF-Orbitrap mass spectrometer) and zymography. Obtained results show that in CSF of TBE patients, the top-upregulated proteins are involved in pro-inflammatory reaction (interleukins), as well as antioxidant/protective response (peroxiredoxins, heat shock proteins). Moreover, changes in the proteome of CSF are not only the result of this disease development, but they can also be an indicator of its course. This mainly applies to proteins involved in proteolysis including serpins and metalloproteinases, whose activity is proportional to the length of patients' convalescence. The obtained proteomic data strongly direct attention to the changes caused by the development of TBE to antioxidant, pro-inflammatory, and proteolytic proteins, knowledge about which can significantly contribute to faster and more accurate diagnosis of various clinical forms of TBE.

Immune cell phenotypes and mortality in the Framingham Heart Study

BACKGROUND

Global life expectancy is rising, with the 60 + age group projected to hit 2 billion by 2050. Aging impacts the immune system. A notable marker of immune system aging is the presence of Aging-Related Immune Cell Phenotypes (ARIPs). Despite their importance, links between immune cell phenotypes including ARIPs and mortality are underexplored. We prospectively investigated 16 different immune cell phenotypes using flow cytometry and IL-6 in relation to survival outcome among dementia-free Framingham Heart Study (FHS) offspring cohort participants who attended the seventh exam (1998-2001).

RESULTS

Among 996 participants (mean age 62 years, range 40 to 88 years, 52% female), the 19-year survival rate was 65%. Adjusting for age, sex, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) serostatus, higher CD4/CD8 and Tc17/CD8 + Treg ratios were significantly associated with lower all-cause mortality (HR: 0.86 [0.76-0.96], 0.84 [0.74-0.94], respectively), while higher CD8 regulatory cell levels (CD8 + CD25 + FoxP3 +) were associated with increased all-cause mortality risk (HR = 1.17, [1.03-1.32]). Elevated IL-6 levels correlated with higher all-cause, cardiovascular, and non-cardiovascular mortality (HR = 1.43 [1.26-1.62], 1.70 [1.31-2.21], and 1.36 [1.18-1.57], respectively). However, after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors and prevalent cancer alongside age, sex, and CMV, immune cell phenotypes were no longer associated with mortality in our cohort. Nonetheless, IL-6 remained significantly associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality (HRs: 1.3 [1.13-1.49], 1.5 [1.12-1.99], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In 19-year follow-up, higher Tc17/CD8 + Treg and CD4/CD8 ratios were associated with lower all-cause mortality, while the CD8 + CD25 + FoxP3 + (CD8 + Treg) phenotype showed increased risk. Elevated IL-6 levels consistently correlated with amplified mortality risks. These findings highlight the links between immune phenotypes and mortality, suggesting implications for future research and clinical considerations.

Pain and the biochemistry of fibromyalgia: patterns of peripheral cytokines and chemokines contribute to the differentiation between fibromyalgia and controls and are associated with pain, fat infiltration and content

Objectives

This explorative study analyses interrelationships between peripheral compounds in saliva, plasma, and muscles together with body composition variables in healthy subjects and in fibromyalgia patients (FM). There is a need to better understand the extent cytokines and chemokines are associated with body composition and which cytokines and chemokines differentiate FM from healthy controls.

Methods

Here, 32 female FM patients and 30 age-matched female healthy controls underwent a clinical examination that included blood sample, saliva samples, and pain threshold tests. In addition, the subjects completed a health questionnaire. From these blood and saliva samples, a panel of 68 mainly cytokines and chemokines were determined. Microdialysis of trapezius and erector spinae muscles, phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy of erector spinae muscle, and whole-body magnetic resonance imaging for determination of body composition (BC)-i.e., muscle volume, fat content and infiltration-were also performed.

Results

After standardizing BC measurements to remove the confounding effect of Body Mass Index, fat infiltration and content are generally increased, and fat-free muscle volume is decreased in FM. Mainly saliva proteins differentiated FM from controls. When including all investigated compounds and BC variables, fat infiltration and content variables were most important, followed by muscle compounds and cytokines and chemokines from saliva and plasma. Various plasma proteins correlated positively with pain intensity in FM and negatively with pain thresholds in all subjects taken together. A mix of increased plasma cytokines and chemokines correlated with an index covering fat infiltration and content in different tissues. When muscle compounds were included in the analysis, several of these were identified as the most important regressors, although many plasma and saliva proteins remained significant.

Discussion

Peripheral factors were important for group differentiation between FM and controls. In saliva (but not plasma), cytokines and chemokines were significantly associated with group membership as saliva compounds were increased in FM. The importance of peripheral factors for group differentiation increased when muscle compounds and body composition variables were also included. Plasma proteins were important for pain intensity and sensitivity. Cytokines and chemokines mainly from plasma were also significantly and positively associated with a fat infiltration and content index.

Conclusion

Our findings of associations between cytokines and chemokines and fat infiltration and content in different tissues confirm that inflammation and immune factors are secreted from adipose tissue. FM is clearly characterized by complex interactions between peripheral tissues and the peripheral and central nervous systems, including nociceptive, immune, and neuroendocrine processes.

Aging-Related Immune Cell Phenotypes and Mortality in the Framingham Heart Study

Background

The global increase in human life expectancy is evident. The total number of individuals aged 60 or above is anticipated to reach 2 billion by 2050. Aging, an inherently complex process, manifests prominently in the changes observed in the immune system. A notable marker of immune system aging is the presence of Aging-Related Immune Cell Phenotypes (ARIPs). Despite their significance, the connections between various ARIPs and mortality have not been thoroughly investigated. We prospectively investigated 16 different ARIPs using flow cytometry, namely, CD4/CD8 ratio, Granzyme B + CD8/Granyzme B + CD4, TN/TM = Tn / (Teff + Tem + Tcm) for TN/TM CD4 + and TN/TM CD8 + ratios, Th17/CD4 + Treg, Tc17/CD8 + Treg, Th17, Tc17, CD4 + Temra, CD8 + Temra, CD4 + CD25 + FoxP3+ (CD4 + Treg), CD8 + CD25 + FoxP3+ (CD8 + Treg) CD4 + CD27-, CD4 + CD28-CD27-, CD8 + CD27-, CD8 + CD28-CD27- and IL-6 in relation to survival outcome among dementia-free Framingham Heart Study (FHS) offspring cohort participants who attended the seventh exam (1998-2001).

Results

Among 996 participants (mean age 62 years, range 40 to 88 years, 52% female), the survival rate was 65% during 19 years of follow-up. For the model adjusting for age, sex, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) serostatus, higher CD4/CD8 and Tc17/CD8 + Treg ratios were significantly associated with lower all-cause mortality (HR:0.86 [0.76-0.96], 0.84 [0.74-0.94], respectively) and higher CD8 regulatory cell levels (CD8 + CD25 + FoxP3+) were associated with higher all-cause mortality (HR = 1.17, [1.03-1.32]). Higher IL-6 levels were associated with higher all-cause, cardiovascular, and non-cardiovascular mortality (HR = 1.43 [1.26-1.62], 1.70 [1.31-2.21], and 1.36 [1.18-1.57], respectively).

Bacillus subtilis expressing duck Tembusu virus E protein induces immune protection in ducklings

Duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) is an infectious disease that emerged in China in 2010. It has caused serious economic losses to the poultry industry and may pose a threat to public health. We aimed to develop a new Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis)-based oral vaccine to control DTMUV transmission among poultry; to this end, we constructed a B. subtilis strain that can secrete DTMUV E protein. Ducklings were orally immunized, and serum antibodies, mucosal antibodies, and splenic cytokines were detected. The results showed that, in addition to high levels of specific IgG, there were also high levels of specific secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) in ducklings orally treated with recombinant B. subtilis. In addition, the levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10 in spleens were significantly boosted by recombinant B. subtilis. Recombinant B. subtilis could effectively enhance ducklings resistance to DTMUV and significantly reduce viral load (p<0.01), along with pathological damage in the brain, heart, and spleen. This is the first study to apply a B. subtilis live-vector vaccine platform for DTMUV disease prevention and control, and our results suggest that B. subtilis expressing DTMUV E protein may be a candidate vaccine against DTMUV.

Multi-omics approach to socioeconomic disparity in metabolic syndrome reveals roles of diet and microbiome

The epidemy of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is typically preceded by adoption of a "risky" lifestyle (e.g., dietary habit) among populations. Evidence shows that those with low socioeconomic status (SES) are at an increased risk for MetS. To investigate this, we recruited 123 obese subjects (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30) from Chicago. Multi-omic data were collected to interrogate fecal microbiota, systemic markers of inflammation and immune activation, plasma metabolites, and plasma glycans. Intestinal permeability was measured using the sugar permeability testing. Our results suggest a heterogenous metabolic dysregulation among obese populations who are at risk of MetS. Systemic inflammation, linked to poor diet, intestinal microbiome dysbiosis, and gut barrier dysfunction may explain the development of MetS in these individuals. Our analysis revealed 37 key features associated with increased numbers of MetS features. These features were used to construct a composite metabolic-inflammatory (MI) score that was able to predict progression of MetS among at-risk individuals. The MI score was correlated with several markers of poor diet quality as well as lower levels of gut microbial diversity and abnormalities in several species of bacteria. This study reveals novel targets to reduce the burden of MetS and suggests access to healthy food options as a practical intervention.

Cytolytic CD8+ T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 and non-SARS-CoV-2-related viruses is associated with severe manifestation of COVID-19

Little is known about the CD8+ T cell functionality in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Therefore, we examined twenty-five hospitalized COVID-19 patients with moderate (MD) or severe disease (SD) as well as seventeen SARS-CoV-2-unexposed persons regarding the cytolytic and cytokine-producing reactivity of their CD8+ T cells. Reactive CD8+ T cells were detectable in 90% of the unexposed persons, confirming high cross-reactive immune memory in the general population. Compared to unexposed persons and MD patients, SD patients had higher numbers of SARS-CoV-2 reactive CD8+ T cells with cytolytic function that can simultaneously produce inflammatory cytokines. In addition, SD patients showed higher CD8+ T cell reactivity against non-SARS-CoV-2-related viruses, which was mainly mediated by cytolytic response. Sequence alignments showed that cross-reactivities with the Spike protein could contribute to the expansion of such cells. Since insufficiently regulated cytolytic CD8+ T cells can damage peripheral and vascular tissue structures, high levels of both SARS-CoV-2-reactive and heterologously activated cytolytic CD8+ T cells could favor severe disease progression.

Synthetic Self-Adjuvanted Lipopeptide Vaccines Conferred Protection against Helicobacter pylori Infection

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) colonizes the stomach epithelium of half the world's population and is responsible for various digestive diseases and even stomach cancer. Vaccine-mediated protection against H. pylori infection depends primarily on the specific mucosal and T-cell responses. In this study, the synthetic lipopeptide vaccines, Hp4 (Pam2 Cys modified UreB T-cell epitope) and Hp10 (Pam2 Cys modified CagA T/B cell combined epitope), not only induce the bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) maturation by activating a variety of pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) such as Toll-like receptor (TLR), Nod-like receptor (NLR), and retinoic acid-inducing gene (RIG) I-like receptor (RLR), and but also stimulate BMDCs to secret cytokines that have the potential to modulate T-cell activation and differentiation. Although intranasal immunization with Hp4 or Hp10 elicits robust epitope-specific T-cell responses in mice, only Hp10 confers protection against H. pylori infection, possibly due to the fact that Hp10 also induces substantial specific sIgA response at mucosal sites. Interestingly, Hp4 elevates the protective response against H. pylori infection of Hp10 when administrated in combination, characterized by better protective effect and enhanced specific T-cell and mucosal antibody responses. The results suggest that synthetic lipopeptide vaccines based on the epitopes derived from the protective antigens are promising candidates for protection against H. pylori infection.

Immunotherapy: an emerging modality to checkmate brain metastasis

The diagnosis of brain metastasis (BrM) has historically been a dooming diagnosis that is nothing less than a death sentence, with few treatment options for palliation or prolonging life. Among the few treatment options available, brain radiotherapy (RT) and surgical resection have been the backbone of therapy. Within the past couple of years, immunotherapy (IT), alone and in combination with traditional treatments, has emerged as a reckoning force to combat the spread of BrM and shrink tumor burden. This review compiles recent reports describing the potential role of IT in the treatment of BrM in various cancers. It also examines the impact of the tumor microenvironment of BrM on regulating the spread of cancer and the role IT can play in mitigating that spread. Lastly, this review also focuses on the future of IT and new clinical trials pushing the boundaries of IT in BrM.

Simultaneous co-infection with swine influenza A and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome viruses potentiates adaptive immune responses

Porcine respiratory disease is multifactorial and most commonly involves pathogen co-infections. Major contributors include swine influenza A (swIAV) and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRSV) viruses. Experimental co-infection studies with these two viruses have shown that clinical outcomes can be exacerbated, but how innate and adaptive immune responses contribute to pathogenesis and pathogen control has not been thoroughly evaluated. We investigated immune responses following experimental simultaneous co-infection of pigs with swIAV H3N2 and PRRSV-2. Our results indicated that clinical disease was not significantly exacerbated, and swIAV H3N2 viral load was reduced in the lung of the co-infected animals. PRRSV-2/swIAV H3N2 co-infection did not impair the development of virus-specific adaptive immune responses. swIAV H3N2-specific IgG serum titers and PRRSV-2-specific CD8β⁺ T-cell responses in blood were enhanced. Higher proportions of polyfunctional CD8β⁺ T-cell subset in both blood and lung washes were found in PRRSV-2/swIAV H3N2 co-infected animals compared to the single-infected groups. Our findings provide evidence that systemic and local host immune responses are not negatively affected by simultaneous swIAV H3N2/PRRSV-2 co-infection, raising questions as to the mechanisms involved in disease modulation.

State of the art in research on the gut-liver and gut-brain axis in poultry

The relationship between the intestines and their microbiota, the liver, and the neuronal system is called the gut-liver-brain axis. This relationship has been studied and observed for a relatively short time but is considered in the development of research focused on, e.g., liver diseases and intestinal dysbiosis. The role of the gut microbiota in this relationship is crucial, as it acts on poultry's performance and feed utilization, affecting meat and egg quality. The correct composition of the intestinal microbiota makes it possible to determine the essential metabolic pathways and biological processes of the individual components of the microbiota, allowing further speculation of the role of microbial populations on internal organs such as the liver and brain in the organism. The gut microbiota forms a complex, dense axis with the autonomic and enteric nervous systems. The symbiotic relationship between the liver and gut microbiota is based on immune, metabolic and neuroendocrine regulation, and stabilization. On the other hand, the gut-brain axis is a bidirectional interaction and information transfer system between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. The following paper will discuss the current state of knowledge of the gut-liver-brain axis of poultry, including factors that may affect this complex relationship.

The Effect of Combined Treatment of Psilocybin and Eugenol on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Brain Inflammation in Mice

Inflammation is an organism’s biological defense mechanism. Acute and chronic inflammation of the body triggers the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory pathways that can affect the content of cytokines in the brain and thus cause brain inflammation. Disorders such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often associated with elevated inflammation. Recently, positive and promising clinical results of psilocybin for the treatment of depression and PTSD were reported. Thus, we decided to test whether psilocybin alone or in combination with eugenol, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, would prevent the increase in or decrease the content of cytokines in the brain of C57BL/6J mice injected with lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Two experiments were performed, one with pre-treatment of mice through gavage with psilocybin (0.88 mg/kg), eugenol (17.6 mg/kg), or combinations of psilocybin and eugenol (1:10, 1:20, or 1:50), followed by intraperitoneal injection of LPS, and the second, post-treatment, with initial injection with LPS, followed by treatment with psilocybin, eugenol, or their combination. Brain tissues were collected, and cytokines were analyzed by qRT-PCR, Western blot, and ELISA. Data were analyzed with a one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test or with multiple unpaired t-tests. LPS upregulated mRNA expression of COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. All pre-treatments decreased the expression of COX-2 and TNF-α, with psilocybin alone and in 1:50 combination, with eugenol being the most effective. In the post-treatment, all combinations of psilocybin and eugenol were effective in reducing inflammation, with the 1:50 ratio displaying the most prominent results in reducing the mRNA content of tested cytokines. Western blot analysis confirmed the effect on COX-2 and IL-1β proteins. Finally, the ELISA showed that post-treatment with psilocybin + eugenol (1:50) demonstrated the best results, decreasing the expression of multiple markers including IL-6 and IL-8. This demonstrates the anti-inflammatory effects of a combination of psilocybin and eugenol in the brain of animals with systemically induced inflammation.

Preventive effects of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA vaccines on the mouse model with latent tuberculosis infection

Background

About a quarter of the world's population with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) are the main source of active tuberculosis. Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) cannot effectively control LTBI individuals from developing diseases. Latency-related antigens can induce T lymphocytes of LTBI individuals to produce higher IFN-γ levels than tuberculosis patients and normal subjects. Herein, we firstly compared the effects of M. tuberculosis (MTB) ag85ab and 7 latent DNA vaccines on clearing latent MTB and preventing its activation in the mouse LTBI model.

Methods

A mouse LTBI model was established, and then immunized respectively with PBS, pVAX1 vector, Vaccae vaccine, ag85ab DNA and 7 kinds of latent DNAs (including rv1733c, rv2660c, rv1813c, rv2029c, rv2628, rv2659c and rv3407) for three times. The mice with LTBI were injected with hydroprednisone to activate the latent MTB. Then, the mice were sacrificed for the bacterial count, histopathological examination, and immunological evaluation.

Results

Using chemotherapy made the MTB latent in the infected mice, and then using hormone treatment reactivated the latent MTB, indicating that the mouse LTBI model was successfully established. After the mouse LTBI model was immunized with the vaccines, the lung colony-forming units (CFUs) and lesion degree of mice in all vaccines group were significantly decreased than those in the PBS group and vector group (P<0.0001, P<0.05). These vaccines could induce antigen-specific cellular immune responses. The number of IFN-γ effector T cells spots secreted by spleen lymphocytes in the ag85ab DNA group was significantly increased than those in the control groups (P<0.05). In the splenocyte culture supernatant, IFN-γ and IL-2 levels in the ag85ab, rv2029c, and rv2659c DNA groups significantly increased (P<0.05), and IL-17A levels in ag85ab and rv2659c DNA groups also significantly increased (P<0.05). Compared with the PBS and vector groups, the proportion of CD4⁺CD25⁺FOXP3⁺ regulatory T cells in spleen lymphocytes of ag85ab, rv2660c, rv2029c, and rv3407 DNA groups were significantly reduced (P<0.05).

Conclusions

MTB ag85ab and 7 kinds of latent DNA vaccines showed immune preventive efficacies on a mouse model of LTBI, especially the rv2659c, and rv1733c DNA. Our findings will provide candidates for the development of new multi-stage vaccines against TB.

Investigating the inflammatory status in the patients candidate for second angiography after coronary stent implantation

BACKGROUND

Inflammation has been shown to be an important feature of atherosclerosis. We aimed to assess a profile of inflammatory cytokines and growth factors in patients with established coronary artery disease (CAD), 12 months after stent implantation.

METHODS

A total of 193 patients with CAD, who were candidates for angiography, 12 months after stent implantation (cases), were compared with 107 patients with CAD, who were candidates for their first angiography (controls). Fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TGs), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were measured using routine methods. The serum concentrations of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ, MCP-1, EGF and VEGF were determined using competitive chemiluminescence immunoassays.

RESULTS

Serum levels of FBG (p = .002), TG (p = .029) and hs-CRP (p = .005) were significantly lower in cases than controls. The cytokines and growth factor profiles in cases were significantly different from controls. After multivariate analysis, serum levels of IL-2 (p < .001), IL-4 (p = .028) were significantly lower in cases compared with the controls while serum levels of IL-8, TNF-α, MCP-1, EGF and VEGF were significantly higher in the cases (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with CAD and higher consumption of drug used (statins, aspirin and glucose lowering agents) to mitigate the risk of a secondary event, the level of hs-CRP one year after stent implantation decreased despite of significant higher serum levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors.

Inflammation-mediated changes in haemostatic variables of pulmonary tuberculosis patients during treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) disease is usually marked by inflammation which is closely linked to haemostasis both in health and disease. Close monitoring of haemostatic response to inflammatory changes during treatment is important to improve TB management. Here we studied associations between haemostatic markers and inflammatory cytokines in 60 TB-infected individuals, aged 18-65 years who received anti-TB therapy. They were recruited before commencement of therapy and followed up till completion of therapy after 6-months. The TNF-α, IL-6, IL-2 (pro-inflammatory cytokines) and P-selectin, GP IIb/IIIa, thrombopoietin (haemostatic variables) were significantly increased at 2 month into therapy compared to pre-treatment values and decreased at 6 month into therapy. Also at 6 month into therapy in comparison to 2-month into therapy, there were significant increase in IL-10 and TGF-β (anti-inflammatory cytokines) as well as a significant decline in PF-4. There were significant positive correlations between GP IIb/IIIa and TNF-α, IL-6 and PSEL, IL-6 and TPO, PF4 and TGF-β. Conclusively, the changes in the TNF-α, IL-6, IL-2 aligned with changes in the levels of P-selectin, GP IIb/IIIa, and TPO in the course of TB therapy. This may suggest that the levels of inflammatory cytokines are linked to the levels of these haemostatic variables in TB individuals.

Assessment of the role of anthocyanin standardized elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract as an immune-stimulating nutraceutical of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

The study of nutraceuticals and their connection to immunity is an expanding field of research. The use of nutraceuticals to alleviate stress and enhance immunity in adverse aquaculture environments have been examined to a certain extent. To elucidate the understanding, we focused on the immunological effect of membrane-separated 13% anthocyanin standardized elderberry (EB) extract with maltodextrin excipient, widely used first-line nutraceuticals to augment the immunity, in aquaculture fish, Nile tilapia. To evaluate the potential of EB-extract, we assessed their capability to enhance lymphocyte proliferation and interleukin-2 production in an in-vitro condition using spleen and thymus lymphocytes. The experiments on spleen and thymus T-cells demonstrated significantly higher T-cell proliferation by EB-extract when lectin mitogen Con A was present as a stimulator. Likewise, our spleen B-cell proliferation result reveals a significant effect of EB-extracts, along with B-cell stimulator non-lectin mitogen LPS. Further, the quantification of IL-2 indicates elevated IL-2 levels when spleen T-cells were cultured with EB-extracts and with Con A present as a stimulator. These suggest that 13% anthocyanin standardized EB-extracts can aggrandize fish cells' cellular and humoral immune responses. With further research, elderberry extracts could be used to supplement commercial feed in aquaculture to reduce stress and stimulate the immune response.

Metabolic profiling of Lantana camara L. using UPLC-MS/MS and revealing its inflammation-related targets using network pharmacology-based and molecular docking analyses

Lantana camara L. is widely used in folk medicine for alleviation of inflammatory disorders, but studies that proved this folk use and that revealed the molecular mechanism of action in inflammation mitigation are not enough. Therefore, this study aimed to identify L. camara phytoconstituents using UPLC-MS/MS and explain their multi-level mechanism of action in inflammation alleviation using network pharmacology analysis together with molecular docking and in vitro testing. Fifty-seven phytoconstituents were identified in L. camara extract, from which the top hit compounds related to inflammation were ferulic acid, catechin gallate, myricetin and iso-ferulic acid. Whereas the most enriched inflammation related genes were PRKCA, RELA, IL2, MAPK 14 and FOS. Furthermore, the most enriched inflammation-related pathways were PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways. Molecular docking revealed that catechin gallate possessed the lowest binding energy against PRKCA, RELA and IL2, while myricetin had the most stabilized interaction against MAPK14 and FOS. In vitro cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory testing indicated that L. camara extract is safer than piroxicam and has a strong anti-inflammatory activity comparable to it. This study is a first step in proving the folk uses of L. camara in palliating inflammatory ailments and institutes the groundwork for future clinical studies.

Integrating network pharmacology and molecular docking to explore the potential mechanism of Xinguan No. 3 in the treatment of COVID-19

Xinguan No. 3 has been recommended for the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, its potential mechanisms are unclear. This study aims to explore the mechanisms of Xinguan No. 3 against COVID-19 through network pharmacology and molecular docking. We first searched the ingredients of Xinguan No. 3 in three databases (Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform, Traditional Chinese Medicines Integrated Database, and The Encyclopedia of Traditional Chinese Medicine). The active components and their potential targets were predicted through the SwissTargetPrediction website. The targets of COVID-19 can be found on the GeneCards website. Protein interaction analysis, screening of key targets, functional enrichment of key target genes, and signaling pathway analysis were performed through Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes databases, Metascape databases, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway databases. Finally, the affinity of the key active components with the core targets was verified by molecular docking. The results showed that five core targets had been screened, including MAPK1, NF-κB1, RELA, AKT1, and MAPK14. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed that the key targets were associated with inflammatory responses and responses to external stimuli. KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that the main pathways were influenza A, hepatitis B, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. Therefore, Xinguan No. 3 might play a role in treating COVID-19 through anti-inflammatory, immune responses, and regulatory responses to external stimuli.

Oxidative, epigenetic changes and fermentation processes in the intestine of rats fed high-fat diets supplemented with various chromium forms

The aim of the study was to determine how feeding rats a high-fat diet (F) supplemented with various forms of chromium affects the responses of the immune and redox systems, as well as epigenetic changes in the ileal tissue and the course of fermentation processes in the caecum. The rats received a pharmacologically relevant dose 0.3 mg Cr/kg body weight in form of chromium(III) picolinate (Cr-Pic), chromium (III)-methionine (Cr-Met), or chromium nanoparticles (Cr-NPs). The F increased DNA oxidation and raised the level of interleukin IL-6. The F was shown to reduce the intensity of fermentation processes in the caecum while increasing the activity of potentially harmful enzymes in the faeces. The addition of Cr in the form of Cr-NPs and Cr-Met in rats fed F beneficially increased mobilization of enzymes of the DNA repair pathway. All forms of Cr, but especially Cr-NPs, beneficially decreased the activity of caecal bacterial β-glucuronidase, faecal β-glucosidase and β-glucuronidase. However, due to the increase in level of cytokine IL-2 in small intestinal wall, induced by all tested forms of chromium, it is difficult to state conclusively that this element can mitigate unfavourable pro-inflammatory and oxidative changes induced by a F in the small intestinal wall.

Serum Inflammatory Markers and Progression of Nonmotor Symptoms in Early Parkinson's Disease

BACKGROUND

The influence of peripheral inflammation on nonmotor symptoms (NMSs) in Parkinson's disease (PD) remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore whether serum inflammatory marker profiles are associated with the progression of NMSs in early PD.

METHODS

We included 45 patients with early PD and 20 healthy control subjects. Six inflammatory markers, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, were measured. NMSs were assessed using the Non-Motor Symptoms Scale, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31 at baseline and after 3 years.

RESULTS

Principal component (PC) analysis showed that only PC3 scores, mainly loaded by IL-2 and IL-6, were significantly elevated in the PD group compared with the control group. Higher PC3 scores in the PD group were associated with faster progression of Non-Motor Symptoms Scale total and mood/apathy domain scores. There were no significant associations of PC scores with Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31 score changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Peripheral inflammation may be related to the evolution of NMSs, particularly mood symptoms, in the early stages of PD. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

A mixture of Panax ginseng and Scrophularia buergeriana improves immune function in an immunosuppressed murine model

BACKGROUND

Immunomodulatory drugs are currently used for immunosuppressed individuals, but adverse side effects have been reported. Although Panax ginseng and Scrophularia buergeriana are known to have respective pharmacological properties, the potential of a mixture of Panax ginseng and Scrophularia buergeriana (Isam-Tang, IST) as an immunomodulatory drug has not yet been studied.

PURPOSE

The present study was designed to assess the immunomodulatory activity of IST and p-coumaric acid (pCA), an active compound of IST, in the immune system.

METHODS

The levels of immunostimulatory cytokines, nitrite, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), NF-kB activation, and proliferation were examined in RAW264.7 cells, primary splenocytes and splenic NK cells isolated from normal mouse spleen, and in cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppressed mice using ELISA, quantitative real-time PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

IST or pCA treatment increased the production of immunostimulatory cytokines and nitrite and the expression of iNOS in RAW264.7 cells and splenocytes. IST or pCA also induced NF-κB signaling activation and promoted the phagocytic activity of RAW264.7 cells. In addition, the splenocyte proliferation and splenic NK activity were enhanced by IST or pCA. IST or pCA increased the levels of immunostimulatory cytokines in immunosuppressed mice and ameliorated splenic tissue damage.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that IST supplementation may be used to enhance immune function.

Thymoquinone modulates the expression of sepsis‑related microRNAs in a CLP model

Sepsis is a clinical syndrome common in critical care settings. In the present study, the therapeutic effect of thymoquinone (TQ) on the expression of sepsis-related microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs), levels of inflammatory markers, organ dysfunction and mortality were investigated in a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) rat model. A single dose of TQ (1 mg/kg) was administered to animals 24 h after CLP and the mortality rate was assessed up to 7 days following the induction of sepsis. In addition, blood samples were collected at different time points and the expression levels of miRNAs (i.e. miR-16, miR-21, miR-27a and miR-34a) were examined, along with the levels of inflammatory cytokines (i.e. TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10) and sepsis markers (i.e. C-reactive protein, endothelial cell-specific molecule-1, VEGF, procalcitonin and D-dimer). Liver, kidney and lung tissues were also collected for further histological examination. Treatment with TQ significantly downregulated the miRNA expression levels, as well as the levels of inflammatory cytokines and early-stage sepsis biomarkers by 30-70% at 12-36 h (P<0.05). Furthermore, CLP model rats treated with TQ exhibited an ~80% increase in survival rate compared with that in the untreated CLP group. In addition, TQ induced the preservation of organ function and structure. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated a promising therapeutic effect of TQ against the sequelae of sepsis.

The Obese Brain: Mechanisms of Systemic and Local Inflammation, and Interventions to Reverse the Cognitive Deficit

Overweight and obesity are now considered a worldwide pandemic and a growing public health problem with severe economic and social consequences. Adipose tissue is an organ with neuroimmune-endocrine functions, which participates in homeostasis. So, adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia induce a state of chronic inflammation that causes changes in the brain and induce neuroinflammation. Studies with obese animal models and obese patients have shown a relationship between diet and cognitive decline, especially working memory and learning deficiencies. Here we analyze how obesity-related peripheral inflammation can affect central nervous system physiology, generating neuroinflammation. Given that the blood-brain barrier is an interface between the periphery and the central nervous system, its altered physiology in obesity may mediate the consequences on various cognitive processes. Finally, several interventions, and the use of natural compounds and exercise to prevent the adverse effects of obesity in the brain are also discussed.

Application of a patient-centered reverse translational systems-based approach to understand mechanisms of an adverse drug reaction of immune checkpoint inhibitors

Immunotherapy became a key pillar of cancer therapeutics with the approvals of ipilimumab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab, which inhibit either cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4) or programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) that are negative regulators of T‐cell activation. However, boosting T‐cell activation is often accompanied by autoimmunity, leading to adverse drug reactions (ADRs), including high grade 3–4 colitis and its severe complications whose prevalence may reach 14% for combination checkpoint inhibitors. In this research, we investigated how mechanistic differences between anti‐CTLA‐4 (ipilimumab) and anti‐PD‐1 (nivolumab and pembrolizumab) affect colitis, a general class toxicity. The data analytical platform Molecular Health Effect was utilized to map population ADR data from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System to chemical and biological databases for hypothesis generation regarding the underlying molecular mechanisms causing colitis. Disproportionality analysis was used to assess the statistical relevance between adverse events of interest and molecular causation. We verified that the anti‐CTLA‐4 drug is associated with an approximately three‐fold higher proportional reporting ratio associated with colitis than those of the anti‐PD‐1 drugs. The signal of the molecular mechanisms, including signaling pathways of inflammatory cytokines, was statistically insignificant to test the hypothesis that the severer rate of colitis associated with ipilimumab would be due to a greater magnitude of T‐cell activation as a result of earlier response of the anti‐CTLA‐4 drug in the immune response. This patient‐centered systems‐based approach provides an exploratory process to better understand drug pair adverse events at pathway and target levels through reverse translation from postmarket surveillance safety reports.

Understanding the physiological functions of the host xenobiotic-sensing nuclear receptors PXR and CAR on the gut microbiome using genetically modified mice

Pharmacological activation of the xenobiotic-sensing nuclear receptors pregnane X receptor (PXR) and constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) is well-known to increase drug metabolism and reduce inflammation. Little is known regarding their physiological functions on the gut microbiome. In this study, we discovered bivalent hormetic functions of PXR/CAR modulating the richness of the gut microbiome using genetically engineered mice. The absence of PXR or CAR increased microbial richness, and absence of both receptors synergistically increased microbial richness. PXR and CAR deficiency increased the pro-inflammatory bacteria Helicobacteraceae and Helicobacter. Deficiency in both PXR and CAR increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, which has bile salt hydrolase activity, corresponding to decreased primary taurine-conjugated bile acids (BAs) in feces, which may lead to higher internal burden of taurine and unconjugated BAs, both of which are linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and cytotoxicity. The basal effect of PXR/CAR on the gut microbiome was distinct from pharmacological and toxicological activation of these receptors. Common PXR/CAR-targeted bacteria were identified, the majority of which were suppressed by these receptors. hPXR-TG mice had a distinct microbial profile as compared to wild-type mice. This study is the first to unveil the basal functions of PXR and CAR on the gut microbiome.

Induction of distinct neuroinflammatory markers and gut dysbiosis by differential pyridostigmine bromide dosing in a chronic mouse model of GWI showing persistent exercise fatigue and cognitive impairment

AIMS

To characterize neuroinflammatory and gut dysbiosis signatures that accompany exaggerated exercise fatigue and cognitive/mood deficits in a mouse model of Gulf War Illness (GWI).

METHODS

Adult male C57Bl/6N mice were exposed for 28 d (5 d/wk) to pyridostigmine bromide (P.O.) at 6.5 mg/kg/d, b.i.d. (GW1) or 8.7 mg/kg/d, q.d. (GW2); topical permethrin (1.3 mg/kg), topical N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (33%) and restraint stress (5 min). Animals were phenotypically evaluated as described in an accompanying article [124] and sacrificed at 6.6 months post-treatment (PT) to allow measurement of brain neuroinflammation/neuropathic pain gene expression, hippocampal glial fibrillary acidic protein, brain Interleukin-6, gut dysbiosis and serum endotoxin.

KEY FINDINGS

Compared to GW1, GW2 showed a more intense neuroinflammatory transcriptional signature relative to sham stress controls. Interleukin-6 was elevated in GW2 and astrogliosis in hippocampal CA1 was seen in both GW groups. Beta-diversity PCoA using weighted Unifrac revealed that gut microbial communities changed after exposure to GW2 at PT188. Both GW1 and GW2 displayed systemic endotoxemia, suggesting a gut-brain mechanism underlies the neuropathological signatures. Using germ-free mice, probiotic supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri produced less gut permeability than microbiota transplantation using GW2 feces.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings demonstrate that GW agents dose-dependently induce differential neuropathology and gut dysbiosis associated with cognitive, exercise fatigue and mood GWI phenotypes. Establishment of a comprehensive animal model that recapitulates multiple GWI symptom domains and neuroinflammation has significant implications for uncovering pathophysiology, improving diagnosis and treatment for GWI.

Evaluating the effects of Cyclosporine A immunosuppression on Mycobacterial infection by inhaling of Cyclosporine A administrated BALB/c mice with live Bacillus Calmette Guérin

Cyclosporine A (CsA) is an immunosuppressive drug used in organ transplantation and treatment of autoimmune diseases. Effects of CsA on determining the direction of the immune response and pathogenesis of infections by altering immune responses particulary T cells functions have always been questionable. We evaluated the effect of different doses of CsA on course of infection in BALB/c mice infected with live Bacillus Calmette Guérin (BCG) (as an example of Mycobacterial infections). Four groups of mice (n = 5) receiving 5, 25, 125, and 0 mg/kg of CsA, three times a week, were infected with BCG aerosolly. Before BCG inhalation and 40-/60- days post-infection, cell proliferation and CD4⁺CD25⁺ cell percentage were evaluated in splenocytes of mice after culture and stimulation with PHA or BCG lysate. The histopathological alterations and bacterial burden were assessed in lung tissue. Cells showed a dose-dependent decrease in proliferation and the percentage of CD4⁺ CD25⁺ cells. After BCG infection, in presence of dose 125 mg/kg, there were some exceptions. The number of bacteria and histopathological lesions and inflammation in lung tissues increased in a dose-dependent manner. CsA immunosuppressed BCG infected mice can be used as a safe model for studying Mycobacterium species pathogenesis and related cellular immune responses.

Intradialytic cycling does not exacerbate microparticles or circulating markers of systemic inflammation in haemodialysis patients

Purpose

Patients receiving haemodialysis (HD) display elevated circulating microparticle (MP) concentration, tissue factor (TF) expression and markers of systemic inflammation, though regular intradialytic cycling (IDC) may have a therapeutic effect. This study investigated the impact of regular, moderate-intensity IDC on circulating MPs and inflammatory markers in unit-based HD patients.

Methods

Patients were cluster-randomised to intervention (n = 20, age: 51.4 ± 18.1 years, body mass: 77.6 ± 18.3 kg, mean ± SD) or no-exercise control (n = 20, 56.8 ± 14.0 years, 80.5 ± 26.5 kg). Intervention participants completed 30 min of moderate intensity (rating of perceived exertion [RPE] of 12–14) IDC, thrice weekly for 6 months. Pre-dialysis venous blood samples were obtained at 0, 3 and 6 months. Circulating MP phenotypes, cytokines, chemokine and MP TF expression were quantified using flow cytometry and cytometric bead array assays.

Results

Despite high exercise compliance (82%), no IDC-dependent effects were observed for any MP, cytokine or chemokine measure (p ≥ 0.051, η_ρ² ≤ 0.399) other than TNF-α (p = 0.001, η_ρ² = 0.186), though no significance was revealed upon post hoc analysis.

Conclusion

Six months of regular, moderate-intensity IDC had no effect on MPs, cytokines or chemokines. This suggests that the exercise did not exacerbate thrombotic or inflammatory status, though further functional assays are required to confirm this.

Trial registration

ISRCTN1129707, prospectively registered on 05/03/2015.

Profiling inflammatory cytokines following zinc supplementation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials

Chronic inflammation has been considered as the main cause of chronic diseases. Zn has anti-inflammatory effects by decreasing the expression of inflammatory markers. The present systematic review and meta-analysis study aims to evaluate the impact of Zn supplementation on inflammation. PubMed (Medline), Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched up to 10 December 2020. Controlled trials which have investigated the effects of Zn supplementation on serum/plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines in subjects aged >15 years were included. A pooled meta-analysis was performed using a random effect model. Sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the robustness of the observed effect sizes. A total of twelve studies was included in meta-analysis. Zn could decrease IL-6 levels (standardised mean difference (SMD) = -0·76 pg/ml; 95 % CI -1·28, -0·24; P = 0·004). There was no significant change in TNF-α (SMD = 0·42 pg/ml; 95 % CI -0·31, 1·16; P = 0·257) and IL-2 levels (SMD = 1·64 pg/ml; 95 % CI -1·31, 4·59; P = 0·277) following Zn supplementation. However, Zn could increase IL-2 significantly after the deletion of one arm in sensitivity analysis (SMD = 2·96 pg/ml; 95 % CI 2·03, 3·88; P < 0·05). Conclusively, Zn supplementation can decrease the IL-6 level. Zn increased IL-2 level after the sensitivity analysis. Zn supplementation has not ameliorative effects on TNF-α.

Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory efficacy of hederagenin-coated maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticles in an atopic dermatitis model

We investigated the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory efficacy of hederagenin coating on maghemite (γ-Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles (HM) in atopic dermatitis (AD), as well as the physical and optical properties of maghemite nanoparticles (MP) using SEM, XRD spectroscopy, UV-vis spectra, Raman spectra, and FTIR spectroscopy. Dose-dependent treatment with HM (10, 50, 100, 200 μg/mL) inhibited the expression of Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and Tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) in inflammatory induced HaCaT and Jurkat cells with inflammation caused by TNF/IFN-γ and PMA/A23187. AD model was induced by performing topical application of 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) and dermatophagoides farinae extract (DFE) for a 31-day period on 8-week-old BALB/c mice. The HM treatments efficiently diminished the AD-like cutaneous lesion induced by DNCB-DFE sensitization in mice. Compared to the AD-only groups, HM treatment considerably attenuated mast cell infiltration and lowered epidermal, and dermal thickness of mice ears skin. In addition, HM treatment prominently alleviated the enlarged size and weight of lymph nodes. Furthermore, HM treatment resulted in a notable reduction in the mRNA expression of Th1 cytokines (TNF-α and IFN-γ), Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-6), Th17 (IL-17), and TSLP. Our data showed that HM provides better AD attenuation compared to MP. Additionally, HM had synergistic effect and act as anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agent. Thus, HM shows great potential in AD medication and as a substitution of non-steroid-based medication.

The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis During Heat Stress in Chickens: A Review

Heat stress is a global issue for the poultry industries with substantial annual economic losses and threats to bird health and welfare. When chickens are exposed to high ambient temperatures, like other species they undergo multiple physiological alterations, including behavioral changes, such as cessation of feeding, initiation of a stress signaling cascade, and intestinal immune, and inflammatory responses. The brain and gut are connected and participate in bidirectional communication via the nervous and humoral systems, this network collectively known as the gut-brain axis. Moreover, heat stress not only induces hyperthermia and oxidative stress at the gut epithelium, leading to impaired permeability and then susceptibility to infection and inflammation, but also alters the composition and abundance of the microbiome. The gut microflora, primarily via bacterially derived metabolites and hormones and neurotransmitters, also communicate via similar pathways to regulate host metabolic homeostasis, health, and behavior. Thus, it stands to reason that reshaping the composition of the gut microbiota will impact intestinal health and modulate host brain circuits via multiple reinforcing and complementary mechanisms. In this review, we describe the structure and function of the microbiota-gut-brain axis, with an emphasis on physiological changes that occur in heat-stressed poultry.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Exosomes Derived from Feline Adipose Tissue Enhance the Effects of Anti-Inflammation Compared to Fibroblasts-Derived Exosomes

Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) release extracellular vesicles such as exosomes, apoptotic bodies, and microparticles. In particular, exosomes are formed inside cells via multivesicular bodies (MVBs), thus their protein, DNA, and RNA content are similar to those of the parent cells. Exosome research is rapidly expanding, with an increase in the number of related publications observed in recent years; therefore, the function and application of MSC-derived exosomes could emerge as cell-free therapeutics. Exosomes have been isolated from feline AD-MSCs and feline fibroblast cell culture media using ultracentrifugation. Feline exosomes have been characterized by FACS, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy imaging. Moreover, cytokine levels were detected by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in exosomes and LPS-induced THP-1 macrophages. The size of the isolated exosomes was that of a typical exosome, i.e., approximately 150 nm, and they expressed tetraspanins CD9 and CD81. The anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 was increased in feline AD-MSC-derived exosomes. However, pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-8, IL-2, RANTES, and IFN-gamma were significantly decreased in feline AD-MSC-derived exosomes. This was the first demonstration that feline AD-MSC-derived exosomes enhance the inflammatory suppressive effects and have potential for the treatment of immune diseases or as an inflammation-inhibition therapy.

A multi-approach and multi-scale platform to model CD4+ T cells responding to infections

Immune responses rely on a complex adaptive system in which the body and infections interact at multiple scales and in different compartments. We developed a modular model of CD4+ T cells, which uses four modeling approaches to integrate processes at three spatial scales in different tissues. In each cell, signal transduction and gene regulation are described by a logical model, metabolism by constraint-based models. Cell population dynamics are described by an agent-based model and systemic cytokine concentrations by ordinary differential equations. A Monte Carlo simulation algorithm allows information to flow efficiently between the four modules by separating the time scales. Such modularity improves computational performance and versatility and facilitates data integration. We validated our technology by reproducing known experimental results, including differentiation patterns of CD4+ T cells triggered by different combinations of cytokines, metabolic regulation by IL2 in these cells, and their response to influenza infection. In doing so, we added multi-scale insights to single-scale studies and demonstrated its predictive power by discovering switch-like and oscillatory behaviors of CD4+ T cells that arise from nonlinear dynamics interwoven across three scales. We identified the inflamed lymph node’s ability to retain naive CD4+ T cells as a key mechanism in generating these emergent behaviors. We envision our model and the generic framework encompassing it to serve as a tool for understanding cellular and molecular immunological problems through the lens of systems immunology.

CD4+ T cells are a key part of the adaptive immune system. They differentiate into different phenotypes to carry out different functions. They do so by secreting molecules called cytokines to regulate other immune cells. Multi-scale modeling can potentially explain their emergent behaviors by integrating biological phenomena occurring at different spatial (intracellular, cellular, and systemic), temporal, and organizational scales (signal transduction, gene regulation, metabolism, cellular behaviors, and cytokine transport). We built a computational platform by combining disparate modeling frameworks (compartmental ordinary differential equations, agent-based modeling, Boolean network modeling, and constraint-based modeling). We validated the platform’s ability to predict CD4+ T cells’ emergent behaviors by reproducing their differentiation patterns, metabolic regulation, and population dynamics in response to influenza infection. We then used it to predict and explain novel switch-like and oscillatory behaviors for CD4+ T cells. On the basis of these results, we believe that our multi-approach and multi-scale platform will be a valuable addition to the systems immunology toolkit. In addition to its immediate relevance to CD4+ T cells, it also has the potential to become the foundation of a virtual immune system.

The Association between IL2 Genotypes and Risk and Severity of Chronic Periodontitis in a Chinese Han Population: A Case-control Study

Chronic periodontitis (CP) is a kind of multifactorial common oral diseases. Multiple immune molecules including interleukin-2 (IL-2) are involved in the occurrence and development of CP. To investigate the association between the IL2 rs2069762 polymorphism and the risk of CP in Chinese individuals, we recruited 375 CP patients and 443 controls in this case-control study. The PCR-RFLP method was used for genotyping. Data revealed that the GG genotype was related with a decreased risk of CP (GG vs TT: OR, 0.58, 95%CI, 0.37-0.92, P-value = 0.020; GG vs TG+TT: OR, 0.61, 95%CI, 0.39-0.94, P-value = 0.027). Besides, G allele was shown to decrease the risk of CP. In addition, the IL2 rs2069762 polymorphism was related with the severity of CP. To sum up, the IL2 rs2069762 polymorphism is related with a decreased risk and severity of CP in Chinese individuals.

Short-term Western-style diet negatively impacts reproductive outcomes in primates

A maternal Western-style diet (WSD) is associated with poor reproductive outcomes, but whether this is from the diet itself or underlying metabolic dysfunction is unknown. Here, we performed a longitudinal study using regularly cycling female rhesus macaques (n = 10) that underwent 2 consecutive in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, one while consuming a low-fat diet and another 6–8 months after consuming a high-fat WSD. Metabolic data were collected from the females prior to each IVF cycle. Follicular fluid (FF) and oocytes were assessed for cytokine/steroid levels and IVF potential, respectively. Although transition to a WSD led to weight gain and increased body fat, no difference in insulin levels was observed. A significant decrease in IL-1RA concentration and the ratio of cortisol/cortisone was detected in FF after WSD intake. Despite an increased probability of isolating mature oocytes, a 44% reduction in blastocyst number was observed with WSD consumption, and time-lapse imaging revealed delayed mitotic timing and multipolar divisions. RNA sequencing of blastocysts demonstrated dysregulation of genes involved in RNA binding, protein channel activity, mitochondrial function and pluripotency versus cell differentiation after WSD consumption. Thus, short-term WSD consumption promotes a proinflammatory intrafollicular microenvironment that is associated with impaired preimplantation development in the absence of large-scale metabolic changes.

The safety and efficacy of BCG encapsulated alginate particle (BEAP) against M.tb H37Rv infection in Macaca mulatta : A pilot study

Due to the limited utility of Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG), the only approved vaccine available for tuberculosis, there is a need to develop a more effective and safe vaccine. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of a dry powder aerosol (DPA) formulation of BCG encapsulated alginate particle (BEAP) and the conventional intradermal BCG immunization in infant rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). The infant macaques were immunized intratracheally with DPA of BEAP into the lungs. Animals were monitored for their growth, behaviour, any adverse and allergic response. The protective efficacy of BEAP was estimated by the ex-vivo H37Rv infection method. Post-immunization with BEAP, granulocytes count, weight gain, chest radiography, levels of liver secreted enzymes, cytokines associated with inflammation like TNF and IL-6 established that BEAP is non-toxic and it does not elicit an allergic response. The T cells isolated from BEAP immunized animals’ blood, upon stimulation with M.tb antigen, secreted high levels of IFN-γ, TNF, IL-6 and IL-2. The activated T cells from BEAP group, when co-cultured with M.tb infected macrophages, eliminated largest number of infected macrophages compared to the BCG and control group. This study suggests the safety and efficacy of BEAP in Non-human primate model.

Regulation of inflammatory and catabolic responses to IL-1β in rat articular chondrocytes by microRNAs miR-122 and miR-451

OBJECTIVE

miR-122 stimulates proliferation of growth plate chondrocytes whereas miR-451 stimulates terminal differentiation and matrix turnover. Here, we examined the potential of these microRNA as regulators of articular chondrocytes using an in vitro model of osteoarthritis.

METHODS

miR-122 and miR-451 presence in rat articular cartilage was assessed using the anterior cruciate ligament transection model of OA. In vitro testing used first passage rat articular chondrocytes (rArCs) that were transfected with lipofectamine (Lipo) and miR-122 or miR-451 for 24-h, then treated with 10 ng/mL IL-1β in order to mimic an osteoarthritic environment. Conditioned media were collected and MMP13, PGE2 and OA-related cytokines were measured. Matrix vesicles were collected from cell layer lysates using ultra-centrifugation. Cells were treated with miR-122 or miR-451 inhibitors to verify miR-specific effects.

RESULTS

Both miR-122 and miR-451 were increased in the OA articular cartilage compared to healthy tissue; rArCs expressed both microRNAs in MVs. miR-122 prevented IL-1β-dependent increases in MMP-13 and PGE2, whereas miR-451 significantly increased the IL-1β effect. Multiplex data indicated that miR-122 reduced the stimulatory effect of IL-1β on IL-1α, IL-2, Il-4, IL-6, GM-CSF, MIP-1A, RANTES and VEGF. In contrast, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, GM-CSF, and MIP-1A were increased by miR-451 while VEGF was decreased. Inhibiting miR-122 exacerbated the response to IL-1β indicating endogenous levels of miR-122 were present. There were no differences in MMP-13 or PGE2 with miR-451 Locked Nucleic Acid (LNA) inhibitor treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Both miRs were elevated in OA in a rat bilateral anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) model. miR-122 prevented, while miR-451 exacerbated the effects of IL-1β on rArCs.

T cell signaling and Treg dysfunction correlate to disease kinetics in IL-2Rα-KO autoimmune mice

IL-2Rα, in part, comprises the high affinity receptor for IL-2, a cytokine important in immune proliferation, activation, and regulation. IL-2Rα deficient mice (IL-2Rα-KO) develop systemic autoimmune disease and die from severe anemia between 18 and 80 days of age. These mice develop kinetically distinct autoimmune progression, with approximately a quarter dying by 21 days of age and half dying after 30 days. This research aims to define immune parameters and cytokine signaling that distinguish cohorts of IL-2Rα-KO mice that develop early- versus late-stage autoimmune disease. To investigate these differences, we evaluated complete blood counts (CBC), antibody binding of RBCs, T cell numbers and activation, hematopoietic progenitor changes, and signaling kinetics, during autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and bone marrow failure. We identified several alterations that, when combined, correlate to disease kinetics. Early onset disease correlates with anti-RBC antibodies, lower hematocrit, and reduced IL-7 signaling. CD8 regulatory T cells (Tregs) have enhanced apoptosis in early disease. Further, early and late end stage disease, while largely similar, had several differences suggesting distinct mechanisms drive autoimmune disease kinetics. Therefore, IL-2Rα-KO disease pathology rates, driven by T cell signaling, promote effector T cell activation and expansion and Treg dysfunction.

Cytokine Analysis: A Fresh Perspective

It is recognized that a balance of different cytokines (synergistic versus antagonistic cytokines) determines the outcome in regulation of different actions such as inflammation, polarization, and secretion of macrophages, induction and secretion of T helper cells, and angiogenesis. It is also known that cytokine secretion is highly variable between individuals. These facts red flag the practice of only comparing absolute values of 1 or 2 cytokines in various studies. It is recognized that ratios of opposing functions yield better quantification of the equilibrium than just observing single values. It is the purpose of this article to (1) emphasize the need to measure a combination of cytokines selected in a manner so that ratios of these may be derived to yield more information about the homeostasis in body and (2) to offer a list of synergistic and antagonistic cytokines from which future investigators may select for more meaningful results.

Cytokine profiling of extracellular vesicles isolated from plasma in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating disease of unknown etiology lasting for a minimum of 6 months but usually for many years, with features including fatigue, cognitive impairment, myalgias, post-exertional malaise, and immune system dysfunction. Dysregulation of cytokine signaling could give rise to many of these symptoms. Cytokines are present in both plasma and extracellular vesicles, but little investigation of EVs in ME/CFS has been reported. Therefore, we aimed to characterize the content of extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from plasma (including circulating cytokine/chemokine profiling) from individuals with ME/CFS and healthy controls.

METHODS

We included 35 ME/CFS patients and 35 controls matched for age, sex and BMI. EVs were enriched from plasma by using a polymer-based precipitation method and characterized by Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and immunoblotting. A 45-plex immunoassay was used to determine cytokine levels in both plasma and isolated EVs from a subset of 19 patients and controls. Linear regression, principal component analysis and inter-cytokine correlations were analyzed.

RESULTS

ME/CFS individuals had significantly higher levels of EVs that ranged from 30 to 130 nm in size as compared to controls, but the mean size for total extracellular vesicles did not differ between groups. The enrichment of typical EV markers CD63, CD81, TSG101 and HSP70 was confirmed by Western blot analysis and the morphology assessed by TEM showed a homogeneous population of vesicles in both groups. Comparison of cytokine concentrations in plasma and isolated EVs of cases and controls yielded no significant differences. Cytokine-cytokine correlations in plasma revealed a significant higher number of interactions in ME/CFS cases along with 13 inverse correlations that were mainly driven by the Interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10), whereas in the plasma of controls, no inverse relationships were found across any of the cytokines. Network analysis in EVs from controls showed 2.5 times more significant inter-cytokine interactions than in the ME/CFS group, and both groups presented a unique negative association.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated levels of 30-130 nm EVs were found in plasma from ME/CFS patients and inter-cytokine correlations revealed unusual regulatory relationships among cytokines in the ME/CFS group that were different from the control group in both plasma and EVs. These disturbances in cytokine networks are further evidence of immune dysregulation in ME/CFS.

The Efficacy of the Novel TSPO Ligands 2-Cl-MGV-1 and 2,4-Di-Cl-MGV-1 Compared to the Classical TSPO Ligand PK 11195 to Counteract the Release of Chemokines from LPS-Stimulated BV-2 Microglial Cells

The impact of ligands of the 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) on the release of chemokines is not vastly investigated. In the present study, we assessed the effect of our novel TSPO ligands 2-Cl-MGV-1 and 2,4-Di-Cl-MGV-1 compared to the classical TSPO ligand PK 11195 on chemokine release in LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglial cells. As per the effect of 2-Cl-MGV-1, CCL2, CCL3, and CCL5 were inhibited by 90%, CCL8 by 97%, and IL-2 by 77% (p < 0.05 for all). 2,4-Di-Cl-MGV-1 inhibited CCL2 release by 92%, CCL3 by 91%, CCL5 by 90%, CCL8 by 89%, and IL-2 by 80% (p < 0.05 for all). PK 11195 exhibited weaker inhibitory effects: CCL2 by 22%, CCL3 by 83%, CCL5 by 34%, CCL8 by 41%, and the cytokine IL-2 by 14% (p < 0.05 for all). Thus, it appears that the novel TSPO ligands are potent suppressors of LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglial cells, and their inhibitory effect is larger than that of PK 11195. Such immunomodulatory effects on microglial cells may be relevant to the treatment of neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases.

Importance of Dietary Changes During the Coronavirus Pandemic: How to Upgrade Your Immune Response

The new coronavirus pandemic continues to spread causing further public health, social, and economic issues. The disparities in the rates of death between countries poses questions about the importance of lifestyle habits and the immune status of populations. An exploration of dietary habits and COVID-19-related death might unravel associations between these two variables. Indeed, while both nutritional excess and deficiency are associated with immunodeficiency, adequate nutrition leading to an optimally functioning immune system may be associated with better outcomes with regards to preventing infection and complications of COVID-19, as well as developing a better immune response to other pathogenic viruses and microorganisms. This article outlines the key functions of the immune system and how macronutrients, micronutrients, and metabolites from the gut microbiome can be essential in the development of an efficient immune system. In addition, the effects of intermittent fasting on the inflammatory state as well as metabolic parameters will be discussed.

Ischemic Stroke among the Symptoms Caused by the COVID-19 Infection

The 2019 global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO recognized the spread of COVID-19 as a pandemic on 11 March 2020. Based on statistics from 10 August 2020, more than 20.2 million cases of COVID-19 have been reported resulting in more than 738,000 deaths. This completely new coronavirus has spread worldwide in a short period, causing economic crises and healthcare system failures worldwide. Initially, it was thought that the main health threat was associated with respiratory system failures, but since then, SARS-CoV-2 has been linked to a broad spectrum of symptoms indicating neurological manifestations, including ischemic stroke. Current knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 and its complications is very limited because of its rapidly evolving character. However, further research is undoubtedly necessary to understand the causes of neurological abnormalities, including acute cerebrovascular disease. The viral infection is inextricably associated with the activation of the immune system and the release of pro-inflammatory factors, that can stimulate the host organism to defend itself. However, the body’s immune response is a double-edged sword that on one hand, destroys the virus but also disrupts the homeostasis leading to serious complications, including thrombosis. Numerous studies have linked coagulopathies with COVID-19, however, there is great uncertainty regarding it functions on the molecular level. In this review, a detailed insight into the biological processes associated with ischemic stroke in COVID-19 patients and suggest a possible explanation for this phenomenon is provided.

Albendazole-Schisandrin B Co-Therapy on Angiostrongylus cantonensis-Induced Meningoencephalitis in Mice

Currently, Angiostrongylus cantonensis infections are predominantly treated with albendazole. However, the use of albendazole can provoke certain neurological symptoms as a result of the immune response triggered by the dead worms. Therefore, treatment usually involves co-administration of corticosteroids to limit the inflammatory reaction. Corticosteroids play a useful role in suppressing inflammation in the brain; however, long-term usage or high dosage may make it problematic.Schisandrin B, an active ingredient from Schisandra chinensis, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the brain. This study aimed to investigate the effects and potential of schisandrin B in combination with albendazole to treat Angiostrongylus-induced meningoencephalitis. Here, we show that albendazole-schisandrin B co-treatment suppressed neuroinflammation in Angiostrongylus-infected mice and increased the survival of the mice. Accordingly, albendazole-schisandrin B co-treatment significantly inhibited inflammasome activation, pyroptosis, and apoptosis. The sensorimotor functions of the mice were also repaired after albendazole-schisandrin B treatment. Immune response was shown to shift from Th2 to Th1, which reduces inflammation and enhances immunity against A. cantonensis. Collectively, our study showed that albendazole-schisandrin B co-therapy may be used as an encouraging treatment for Angiostrongylus-induced meningoencephalitis.

A novel condition of mild electrical stimulation exerts immunosuppression via hydrogen peroxide production that controls multiple signaling pathway

Different modes of exogenous electrical stimulation at physiological strength has been applied to various diseases. Previously, we extensively demonstrated the usability of mild electrical stimulation (MES) with low frequency pulse current at 55 pulses per second (MES₅₅) for several disease conditions. Here we found that MES with high frequency pulse-current (5500 pulse per second; MES₅₅₀₀) suppressed the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by phorbol myristate acetate/ionomycin in Jurkat T cells and primary splenocytes. MES₅₅₀₀ also suppressed the overproduction of inflammatory cytokines, improved liver damage and reduced mouse spleen enlargement in concanavalin-A-treated BALB/c mice. The molecular mechanism underlying these effects included the ability of MES₅₅₀₀ to induce modest amount of hydrogen peroxide and control multiple signaling pathways important for immune regulation, such as NF-κB, NFAT and NRF2. In the treatment of various inflammatory and immune-related diseases, suppression of excessive inflammatory cytokines is key, but because immunosuppressive drugs used in the clinical setting have serious side effects, development of safer methods of inhibiting cytokines is required. Our finding provides evidence that physical medicine in the form of MES₅₅₀₀ may be considered as a novel therapeutic tool or as adjunctive therapy for inflammatory and immune-related diseases.

Emerging Roles of Mast Cells in the Regulation of Lymphatic Immuno-Physiology

Mast cells (MCs) are abundant in almost all vascularized tissues. Furthermore, their anatomical proximity to lymphatic vessels and their ability to synthesize, store and release a large array of inflammatory and vasoactive mediators emphasize their significance in the regulation of the lymphatic vascular functions. As a major secretory cell of the innate immune system, MCs maintain their steady-state granule release under normal physiological conditions; however, the inflammatory response potentiates their ability to synthesize and secrete these mediators. Activation of MCs in response to inflammatory signals can trigger adaptive immune responses by dendritic cell-directed T cell activation. In addition, through the secretion of various mediators, cytokines and growth factors, MCs not only facilitate interaction and migration of immune cells, but also influence lymphatic permeability, contractility, and vascular remodeling as well as immune cell trafficking through the lymphatic vessels. In summary, the consequences of these events directly affect the lymphatic niche, influencing inflammation at multiple levels. In this review, we have summarized the recent advancements in our understanding of the MC biology in the context of the lymphatic vascular system. We have further highlighted the MC-lymphatic interaction axis from the standpoint of the tumor microenvironment.

Immunomodulatory effects of some Namibian plants traditionally used for treating inflammatory diseases

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Acanthosicyos naudininus, Gomphocarpus fruticosus, and Cryptolepis decidua are, according to the knowledge of traditional healers, used in Namibia to treat inflammatory disorders such as pain, fever and skin rashes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was conducted to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects and the possible underlying mechanisms of action of the plant extracts on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) such as T-lymphocytes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Methanolic and EtOAc extracts of A. naudinianus, G. fruticosus and C. decidua were analysed for their immunomodulatory potential. PBMCs were isolated from the blood of healthy donors and incubated with the plant extracts at concentrations 100, 30, 10, 3, 1 and 0.3 μg/mL. Effects on proliferation and viability of activated human lymphocytes were assessed in comparison to ciclosporin A by flow cytometry using carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) and WST-1 assay. Flow cytometry by annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining was performed to investigate the necrotic/apoptotic effect of the plant extracts on mitogen-activated human lymphocytes. In addition, analysis of the influence of plant extracts on the regulatory mechanisms of T-lymphocytes was performed using activation marker and cytokine production assays. An HPLC-PDA-ELSD-ESIMS profile was recorded for each of the extracts.

RESULTS

T-lymphocyte proliferation was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by the extracts of A. naudinianus, G. fruticosus, and C. decidua in concentrations not causing apoptosis or necrosis. This effect was mediated by inhibition of lymphocyte activation, specifically the suppression of CD25 and CD69 surface receptor expression. Moreover, the extracts suppressed effector functions, as indicated by reduced production of IFN-γ and IL-2. Based on the HPLC profile, possible responsible compound classes could be identified for the extracts of A. naudinianus (cucurbitacins) and C. decidua (indole alkaloids), but not for G. fruticosus.

CONCLUSIONS

The data show that the extracts of A. naudinianus, G. fruticosus and C. decidua have in vitro immunomodulatory activity and they interfere with the function of immunocompetent cells, suggesting an anti-inflammatory mode-of-action. The present chemical determination and pattern recognition results explain the therapeutic potency. However, further studies to investigate the therapeutic potential of the plants in inflammatory disorders should be done.

Non-significant association between - 330 T/G polymorphism in interleukin-2 gene and chronic periodontitis: findings from a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic periodontitis (CP) is an immune-inflammatory disease that promotes tissue damage around the teeth. Among the several inflammatory mediators that orchestrate the periodontitis, there is the interleukin (IL)-2. Genetic variations in IL2 gene may be associated with the risk and severity of the disease. Contrary results are available in the literature with inconclusive findings and none meta-analysis to gather these data.

METHODS

A literature search was performed for studies published before June 11, 2019 in diverse scientific and educational databases. The data was extracted by two investigators and the statistical evaluation was performed by Review Manager statistical program with heterogeneity (I²) and Odds Ratio (OR) with 95% of Confidence Intervals (CI) calculations and a sensitive analysis to assess the accuracy of the obtained results. The publication bias was evaluated by Begg' and Egger's test with Comprehensive meta-analysis software. The value of P < 0.05 was considered as significant.

RESULTS

Five studies were identified in diverse ethnical groups with 1425 participants. The - 330 T/G polymorphism in IL2 gene was not significantly associated with CP in allelic evaluation (P > 0.05) as well as in the genotypic comparisons (P = 0.15). The Begg's test and the linear regression Egger's test did not show any evidence of publication bias risk (P > 0.05) which was corroborated by the absence of obvious asymmetry in Funnel plot graphic.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis showed a non-significant association between - 330 T/G polymorphism in IL2 gene and CP in any allelic evaluation.