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Shaffer Z, Romero R, Tarca AL, Galaz J, Arenas-Hernandez M, Gudicha DW, Chaiworapongsa T, Jung E, Suksai M, Theis KR, Gomez-Lopez N. The vaginal immunoproteome for the prediction of spontaneous preterm birth: A retrospective longitudinal study. eLife 2024; 13:e90943. [PMID: 38913421 PMCID: PMC11196114 DOI: 10.7554/elife.90943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Most cases of preterm birth occur spontaneously and result from preterm labor with intact (spontaneous preterm labor [sPTL]) or ruptured (preterm prelabor rupture of membranes [PPROM]) membranes. The prediction of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) remains underpowered due to its syndromic nature and the dearth of independent analyses of the vaginal host immune response. Thus, we conducted the largest longitudinal investigation targeting vaginal immune mediators, referred to herein as the immunoproteome, in a population at high risk for sPTB. Methods Vaginal swabs were collected across gestation from pregnant women who ultimately underwent term birth, sPTL, or PPROM. Cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and antimicrobial peptides in the samples were quantified via specific and sensitive immunoassays. Predictive models were constructed from immune mediator concentrations. Results Throughout uncomplicated gestation, the vaginal immunoproteome harbors a cytokine network with a homeostatic profile. Yet, the vaginal immunoproteome is skewed toward a pro-inflammatory state in pregnant women who ultimately experience sPTL and PPROM. Such an inflammatory profile includes increased monocyte chemoattractants, cytokines indicative of macrophage and T-cell activation, and reduced antimicrobial proteins/peptides. The vaginal immunoproteome has improved predictive value over maternal characteristics alone for identifying women at risk for early (<34 weeks) sPTB. Conclusions The vaginal immunoproteome undergoes homeostatic changes throughout gestation and deviations from this shift are associated with sPTB. Furthermore, the vaginal immunoproteome can be leveraged as a potential biomarker for early sPTB, a subset of sPTB associated with extremely adverse neonatal outcomes. Funding This research was conducted by the Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS) under contract HHSN275201300006C. ALT, KRT, and NGL were supported by the Wayne State University Perinatal Initiative in Maternal, Perinatal and Child Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Shaffer
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
| | - Roberto Romero
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of MichiganAnn ArborUnited States
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State UniversityEast LansingUnited States
| | - Adi L Tarca
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
- Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University College of EngineeringDetroitUnited States
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
| | - Jose Galaz
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de ChileSantiagoChile
| | - Marcia Arenas-Hernandez
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
| | - Dereje W Gudicha
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
| | - Eunjung Jung
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
| | - Manaphat Suksai
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
| | - Kevin R Theis
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS)BethesdaUnited States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of MedicineDetroitUnited States
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Gao H, Liu Q, Wang X, Li T, Li H, Li G, Tan L, Chen Y. Deciphering the role of female reproductive tract microbiome in reproductive health: a review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1351540. [PMID: 38562966 PMCID: PMC10982509 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1351540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Relevant studies increasingly indicate that female reproductive health is confronted with substantial challenges. Emerging research has revealed that the microbiome interacts with the anatomy, histology, and immunity of the female reproductive tract, which are the cornerstone of maintaining female reproductive health and preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes. Currently, the precise mechanisms underlying their interaction and impact on physiological functions of the reproductive tract remain elusive, constituting a prominent area of investigation within the field of female reproductive tract microecology. From this new perspective, we explore the mechanisms of interactions between the microbiome and the anatomy, histology, and immunity of the female reproductive tract, factors that affect the composition of the microbiome in the female reproductive tract, as well as personalized medicine approaches in managing female reproductive tract health based on the microbiome. This study highlights the pivotal role of the female reproductive tract microbiome in maintaining reproductive health and influencing the occurrence of reproductive tract diseases. These findings support the exploration of innovative approaches for the prevention, monitoring and treatment of female reproductive tract diseases based on the microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Gao
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Qiao Liu
- School of Nursing, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaolan Wang
- Center for a Combination of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- Department of Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Genlin Li
- Center for a Combination of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Lingling Tan
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yahui Chen
- School of Nursing, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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Jaiswal M, Singh A, Kumar S. PTPAMP: prediction tool for plant-derived antimicrobial peptides. Amino Acids 2023; 55:1-17. [PMID: 35864258 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-022-03190-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as a potential alternative to conventional antibiotics has led to the development of efficient computational methods for predicting AMPs. Among all organisms, the presence of multiple genes encoding AMPs in plants demands the development of a plant-based prediction tool. To this end, we developed models based on multiple peptide features like amino acid composition, dipeptide composition, and physicochemical attributes for predicting plant-derived AMPs. The selected compositional models are integrated into a web server termed PTPAMP. The designed web server is capable of classifying a query peptide sequence into four functional activities, i.e., antimicrobial (AMP), antibacterial (ABP), antifungal (AFP), and antiviral (AVP). Our models achieved an average area under the curve of 0.95, 0.91, 0.85, and 0.88 for AMP, ABP, AFP, and AVP, respectively, on benchmark datasets, which were ~ 6.75% higher than the state-of-the-art methods. Moreover, our analysis indicates the abundance of cysteine residues in plant-derived AMPs and the distribution of other residues like G, S, K, and R, which differ as per the peptide structural family. Finally, we have developed a user-friendly web server, available at the URL: http://www.nipgr.ac.in/PTPAMP/ . We expect the substantial input of this predictor for high-throughput identification of plant-derived AMPs followed by additional insights into their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohini Jaiswal
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Ajeet Singh
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Shailesh Kumar
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India.
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Artym J, Zimecki M. Antimicrobial and Prebiotic Activity of Lactoferrin in the Female Reproductive Tract: A Comprehensive Review. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121940. [PMID: 34944756 PMCID: PMC8699013 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Women’s intimate health depends on several factors, such as age, diet, coexisting metabolic disorders, hormonal equilibrium, sexual activity, drug intake, contraception, surgery, and personal hygiene. These factors may affect the homeostasis of the internal environment of the genital tract: the vulva, vagina and cervix. This equilibrium is dependent on strict and complex mutual interactions between epithelial cells, immunocompetent cells and microorganisms residing in this environment. The microbiota of the genital tract in healthy women is dominated by several species of symbiotic bacteria of the Lactobacillus genus. The bacteria inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and inflammatory processes by virtue of direct and multidirectional antimicrobial action and, indirectly, by the modulation of immune system activity. For the homeostasis of the genital tract ecosystem, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory peptides, as well as proteins secreted by mucus cells into the cervicovaginal fluid, have a fundamental significance. Of these, a multifunctional protein known as lactoferrin (LF) is one of the most important since it bridges innate and acquired immunity. Among its numerous properties, particular attention should be paid to prebiotic activity, i.e., exerting a beneficial action on symbiotic microbiota of the gastrointestinal and genital tract. Such activity of LF is associated with the inhibition of bacterial and fungal infections in the genital tract and their consequences, such as endometritis, pelvic inflammation, urinary tract infections, miscarriage, premature delivery, and infection of the fetus and newborns. The aim of this article is to review the results of laboratory as well as clinical trials, confirming the prebiotic action of LF on the microbiota of the lower genital tract.
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Wengerska K, Spustek D, Krakowiak D, Drabik K, Batkowska J. Rearing system, utility type and hens’ age as a factor modifying lysozyme's hydrolytic activity. ROCZNIKI NAUKOWE POLSKIEGO TOWARZYSTWA ZOOTECHNICZNEGO 2021. [DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0015.4318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
<b>The aim of study was to analyze the impact of the utility type, age and rearing system of hens on egg quality traits and the enzymatic activity of egg albumen lysozyme (LA). The material consisted of 120 eggs from two genotypes of hens: Hy-Line Brown and parent stock of Ross 308. Laying-type hens were reared divided into 2 systems: intensive (litter, balanced feed) and extensive (open runs, farm fodders). The second source of material was hens age (29, 33, 41, 53 and 70 wks) of the parent stock.. Stocks were differentiated in terms of the hens age (29, 33, 41, 53 and 70 wks). Eggs quality traits and LA were evaluated.
The LA of was higher in eggs from laying than from broiler breeder hens. It decreased with the hens’ age and increased with albumen mass, it was also positively correlated with albumen height and Haugh's units. The rearing system considerably modified mass of egg and albumen and the dense albumen height, but does not affect the LA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Wengerska
- Institute of Biological Basis of Animal Production, University of LIfe Sciences in Lublin, 13 Akademicka St., 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Damian Spustek
- Students’ Research Group of Poultry Biology, Breeding and Management, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 13 Akademicka St., 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Dominika Krakowiak
- Students’ Research Group of Poultry Biology, Breeding and Management, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 13 Akademicka St., 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Kamil Drabik
- Institute of Biological Basis of Animal Production, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 13 Akademicka St., 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Justyna Batkowska
- Institute of Biological Basis of Animal Production, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 13 Akademicka St., 20-950 Lublin, Poland
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Abstract
The innate immune system is comprised of both cellular and humoral players that recognise and eradicate invading pathogens. Therefore, the interplay between retroviruses and innate immunity has emerged as an important component of viral pathogenesis. HIV-1 infection in humans that results in hematologic abnormalities and immune suppression is well represented by changes in the CD4/CD8 T cell ratio and consequent cell death causing CD4 lymphopenia. The innate immune responses by mucosal barriers such as complement, DCs, macrophages, and NK cells as well as cytokine/chemokine profiles attain great importance in acute HIV-1 infection, and thus, prevent mucosal capture and transmission of HIV-1. Conversely, HIV-1 has evolved to overcome innate immune responses through RNA-mediated rapid mutations, pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) modification, down-regulation of NK cell activity and complement receptors, resulting in increased secretion of inflammatory factors. Consequently, epithelial tissues lining up female reproductive tract express innate immune sensors including anti-microbial peptides responsible for forming primary barriers and have displayed an effective potent anti-HIV activity during phase I/II clinical trials.
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7
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Anderson SM, Thurman AR, Chandra N, Jackson SS, Asin S, Rollenhagen C, Ghosh M, Daniels J, Vann NC, Clark MR, Doncel GF. Vitamin D Status Impacts Genital Mucosal Immunity and Markers of HIV-1 Susceptibility in Women. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12103176. [PMID: 33080839 PMCID: PMC7602985 DOI: 10.3390/nu12103176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
While vitamin D insufficiency is known to impact a multitude of health outcomes, including HIV-1, little is known about the role of vitamin D-mediated immune regulation in the female reproductive tract (FRT). We performed a pilot clinical study of 20 women with circulating 25(OH)D levels <62.5 nmol/L. Participants were randomized into either weekly or daily high-dose oral vitamin D supplementation groups. In addition to serum vitamin D levels, genital mucosal endpoints, including soluble mediators, immune cell populations, gene expression, and ex vivo HIV-1 infection, were assessed. While systemic vitamin D levels showed a significant increase following supplementation, these changes translated into modest effects on the cervicovaginal factors studied. Paradoxically, post-supplementation vitamin D levels were decreased in cervicovaginal fluids. Given the strong correlation between vitamin D status and HIV-1 infection and the widespread nature of vitamin D deficiency, further understanding of the role of vitamin D immunoregulation in the female reproductive tract is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon M. Anderson
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.R.T.); (N.C.); (S.S.J.); (N.C.V.); (M.R.C.); (G.F.D.)
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, VA 22209, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrea R. Thurman
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.R.T.); (N.C.); (S.S.J.); (N.C.V.); (M.R.C.); (G.F.D.)
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, VA 22209, USA
| | - Neelima Chandra
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.R.T.); (N.C.); (S.S.J.); (N.C.V.); (M.R.C.); (G.F.D.)
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, VA 22209, USA
| | - Suzanne S. Jackson
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.R.T.); (N.C.); (S.S.J.); (N.C.V.); (M.R.C.); (G.F.D.)
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, VA 22209, USA
| | - Susana Asin
- V.A. Medical Center, White River Junction, VT 05009, USA; (S.A.); (C.R.)
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Christiane Rollenhagen
- V.A. Medical Center, White River Junction, VT 05009, USA; (S.A.); (C.R.)
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Mimi Ghosh
- Milken Institute School of Public Health and Health Services, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (M.G.); (J.D.)
| | - Jason Daniels
- Milken Institute School of Public Health and Health Services, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (M.G.); (J.D.)
| | - Nikolas C. Vann
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.R.T.); (N.C.); (S.S.J.); (N.C.V.); (M.R.C.); (G.F.D.)
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, VA 22209, USA
| | - Meredith R. Clark
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.R.T.); (N.C.); (S.S.J.); (N.C.V.); (M.R.C.); (G.F.D.)
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, VA 22209, USA
| | - Gustavo F. Doncel
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.R.T.); (N.C.); (S.S.J.); (N.C.V.); (M.R.C.); (G.F.D.)
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, VA 22209, USA
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Madanchi H, Shoushtari M, Kashani H, Sardari S. Antimicrobial peptides of the vaginal innate immunity and their role in the fight against sexually transmitted diseases. New Microbes New Infect 2020; 34:100627. [PMID: 31993204 PMCID: PMC6976936 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2019.100627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Some antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are produced in the vaginal innate immune system and play an important role in protecting this organ against pathogenic agents. Moreover, sexually transmitted diseases have become a major problem in human societies and are rapidly spreading. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant microbes (superbugs) can pose a major threat to human societies and cause rapid spread of these diseases. Finding new antimicrobial compounds to fight superbugs is therefore essential. It has been shown that AMPs have good potential to become new antibiotics. The most important AMPs in the vaginal innate immune system are defensins, secretory leucocyte protease inhibitors, calprotectin, lysozyme, lactoferrin and elafin, which play an important role in host defence against sexually transmitted infections, modulation of immune responses and anticancer activities. Some AMPs, such as LL-37, magainin 2 and nisin, show both spermicidal and antimicrobial effects in the vagina. In this summary, we will discuss vaginal AMPs and continue to address some of the challenges of using peptides to control pathogens that are effective in sexually transmitted diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Madanchi
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Drug Design and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Biotechnology Research Centre, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - M. Shoushtari
- Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - H.H. Kashani
- Gametogenesis Research Centre, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
- Anatomical Sciences Research Centre, Basic Sciences Research Institute, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - S. Sardari
- Drug Design and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Biotechnology Research Centre, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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Brice DC, Diamond G. Antiviral Activities of Human Host Defense Peptides. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:1420-1443. [PMID: 31385762 PMCID: PMC9008596 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190805151654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Peptides with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity are found widely expressed throughout nature. As they participate in a number of different aspects of innate immunity in mammals, they have been termed Host Defense Peptides (HDPs). Due to their common structural features, including an amphipathic structure and cationic charge, they have been widely shown to interact with and disrupt microbial membranes. Thus, it is not surprising that human HDPs have activity against enveloped viruses as well as bacteria and fungi. However, these peptides also exhibit activity against a wide range of non-enveloped viruses as well, acting at a number of different steps in viral infection. This review focuses on the activity of human host defense peptides, including alpha- and beta-defensins and the sole human cathelicidin, LL-37, against both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. The broad spectrum of antiviral activity of these peptides, both in vitro and in vivo suggest that they play an important role in the innate antiviral defense against viral infections. Furthermore, the literature suggests that they may be developed into antiviral therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C. Brice
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida, Box 100424, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
| | - Gill Diamond
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida, Box 100424, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
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10
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Thurman A, Chandra N, Schwartz JL, Brache V, Chen BA, Asin S, Rollenhagen C, Herold BC, Fichorova RN, Hillier SL, Weiner DH, Mauck C, Doncel GF. The Effect of Hormonal Contraception on Cervicovaginal Mucosal End Points Associated with HIV Acquisition. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2019; 35:853-864. [PMID: 30997816 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2018.0298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive age women may choose to concurrently use topical antiretrovirals and hormonal contraceptives (HCs) to simultaneously prevent HIV-1 infection and unintended/mistimed pregnancy. There are conflicting data on the effect of HCs on mucosal susceptibility to HIV-1. The objective of this study was to evaluate cervicovaginal (CV) mucosal data from healthy women before and after initiation of either oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) or depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) injection. CONRAD A10-114 was a prospective, open-label, parallel cohort study. We enrolled 74 women and 62 completed the visits (32 and 30 who selected OCPs and DMPA, respectively). Participants provided CV lavage, vaginal biopsies, and CV swabs at baseline in the luteal phase and then ∼6 weeks after initiating HCs. After contraceptive initiation, there were significant increases in vaginal immune cell density among both DMPA and OCP users. Changes for OCP users were concentrated in the subepithelial lamina propria, whereas for DMPA users, they were distributed throughout the vaginal tissue, including the epithelium (CD45+, CD3+, CD4+, and CD1a+). Contraceptive use altered concentrations of soluble CV inflammatory and immune mediators, with significant reductions in some proinflammatory cytokines and secretory leukoprotease inhibitor. Compared with baseline, p24 antigen production after ex vivo HIV-1 infection of vaginal biopsies doubled after DMPA use, but all p-values were >.05. HIV-1 replication was significantly higher in DMPA-exposed tissues compared with those from the OCP group at the end of the tissue culture (p = .01). Although not statistically significant, median in vitro inhibition of HIV-1 by CV fluid (innate antiviral activity), was reduced by ∼50% with HCs (p > .21). Exposure to exogenous contraceptive hormones significantly increased vaginal immune cells and reduced CV proinflammatory cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. DMPA users showed higher susceptibility to HIV-1 ex vivo infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Thurman
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, CONRAD, Norfolk, Virginia
| | | | | | | | - Beatrice A. Chen
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Susana Asin
- V.A. Medical Center, White River Junction, VT and Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth, New Hampshire
| | - Christiane Rollenhagen
- V.A. Medical Center, White River Junction, VT and Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth, New Hampshire
| | - Betsy C. Herold
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Raina N. Fichorova
- Laboratory of Genital Tract Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sharon L. Hillier
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Powell AM, Shary JR, Louden C, Ramakrishnan V, Eckard AR, Wagner CL. Association of Bacterial Vaginosis with Vitamin D in Pregnancy: Secondary Analysis from the Kellogg Pregnancy Study. AJP Rep 2019; 9:e226-e234. [PMID: 31304052 PMCID: PMC6624108 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1693163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with vitamin D deficiency and poor pregnancy outcomes. We studied a nested cohort from a randomized controlled trial to investigate the association between BV and vitamin D concentration in pregnancy. Study Design Subjects with randomly assigned 400 versus 4,400 IU of daily cholecalciferol (vitamin D 3 ) had vaginal swabs collected for Gram staining and Nugent score calculation, as well as plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) measurement at three pregnancy time points. Results Fifty-two (21.2%) of the 245 women included in the analysis were diagnosed with BV at study entry. Women with BV were also more likely to be African American ( p < 0.0001) and have lower 25(OH)D concentrations at 22 to 24 weeks' gestation ( p = 0.03). There were no differences in pregnancy outcomes of interest within this group compared with the remaining study subjects. In mixed regression modeling, while race ( p = 0.001) and age ( p = 0.03) were significant predictors of BV prevalence independently, 25(OH)D concentration ( p = 0.81), gestational age ( p = 0.06), and body mass index ( p = 0.87) were not. Conclusion Neither vitamin D deficiency in early pregnancy nor supplementation decreased BV incidence during pregnancy. Pregnancy outcomes (preterm birth and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy) were similar among women with and without BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maya Powell
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Judy R. Shary
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | | | | | - Allison Ross Eckard
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Carol L. Wagner
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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12
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Joag V, Sivro A, Yende-Zuma N, Imam H, Samsunder N, Abdool Karim Q, Abdool Karim S, McKinnon L, Kaul R. Ex vivo HIV entry into blood CD4+ T cells does not predict heterosexual HIV acquisition in women. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200359. [PMID: 29985942 PMCID: PMC6037376 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A blood-based assay that could quantify HIV susceptibility would be very valuable for HIV prevention research. Previously, we developed and validated an ex vivo, flow-based, HIV entry assay to assess genital HIV susceptibility in endocervical CD4+ T cells. Methods Here we assessed whether this tool could be used to predict HIV risk using blood-derived CD4+ T cells in a rigorously-blinded, nested case-control study using blood samples collected from high-risk, HIV-uninfected South African women enrolled in the CAPRISA 004 clinical trial. Cases, subsequently acquiring HIV were sampled prior to HIV infection and compared with controls, who remained HIV-uninfected. The primary endpoint was ex vivo entry of a CCR5-tropic HIV founder virus into blood CD4+ T cells. Secondary endpoints included HIV entry into CD4+ central (TCM) and effector (TEM) memory T cells, and into CD4+ T cell subsets expressing CCR5, CD69, CCR6, α4β1 or α4β7. Results Compared to bulk CD4+ T cells (4.9% virus entry), CD4+ T cells expressing CCR5, CCR6 or α4β1 and TEM were highly susceptible (15.5%, 8.8%, 8.2% and 10.8% entry, respectively, all p<0.0001), while TCM, CD69+ or α4β7+ CD4+ cells were moderately susceptible (6.4%, 6.0% and 5.8% respectively, p ≤ 0.003). While the proportion of the aforementioned highly susceptible cells correlated with overall virus entry into CD4+ T cells within an individual (r = 0.68, 0.47, 0.67, and 0.60 respectively, p<0.0001), blood virus entry did not predict subsequent mucosal HIV acquisition after controlling for sexual behaviour and condom use (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.77–1.11, p = 0.40). Conclusions Although virus entry identified several previously known highly susceptible cellular HIV targets, blood HIV entry did not predict subsequent heterosexual HIV acquisition. Assessment of mucosal HIV susceptibility may require sampling at the site of HIV exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vineet Joag
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail: (VJ); (RK)
| | - Aida Sivro
- Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology, University of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Nonhlanhla Yende-Zuma
- Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Hajra Imam
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Natasha Samsunder
- Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Salim Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Lyle McKinnon
- Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology, University of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail: (VJ); (RK)
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13
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Sennepin A, Real F, Duvivier M, Ganor Y, Henry S, Damotte D, Revol M, Cristofari S, Bomsel M. The Human Penis Is a Genuine Immunological Effector Site. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1732. [PMID: 29312291 PMCID: PMC5735067 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The human penis is a main portal of entry for numerous pathogens, and vaccines able to control resulting infections locally are highly desirable. However, in contrast to the gastrointestinal or vaginal mucosa, the penile immune system and mechanisms inducing a penile immune response remain elusive. In this descriptive study, using multiparametric flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, we characterized mucosal immune cells such as B, T, and natural killer (NK) cells from the urethra, fossa, and glans of human adult penile tissues. We show that memory B lymphocytes and CD138+ plasma cells are detected in all penile compartments. CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes reside in the epithelium and lamina propria of the penile regions and have mostly a resting memory phenotype. All penile regions contain CD56dim NK cells surface expressing the natural cytotoxicity receptor NKp44 and the antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity receptor CD16. These cells are also able to spontaneously secrete pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-17 and IL-22. Finally, CCR10 is the main homing receptor detected in these penile cells although, together with CCR3, CCR6, and CCR9, their expression level differs between penile compartments. Unlike antigen-presenting cells which type differ between penile regions as we reported earlier, urethral, fossa, and glans content in immune B, T, and NK cells is comparable. However, median values per each analysis suggest that the glans, containing higher number and more activated NK cells together with higher number of terminally differentiate effector CD8+ T cells, is a superior effector site than the urethra and the fossa. Thus, the human penis is an immunologically active tissue containing the cellular machinery required to induce and produce a specific and effective response against mucosal pathogens. It can therefore be considered as a classic mucosal effector site, a feature that must be taken into account for the elaboration of efficient strategies, including vaccines, against sexually transmitted infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Sennepin
- Laboratory of Mucosal Entry of HIV-1 and Mucosal Immunity, Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Cochin Institute, INSERM, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Fernando Real
- Laboratory of Mucosal Entry of HIV-1 and Mucosal Immunity, Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Cochin Institute, INSERM, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Marine Duvivier
- Laboratory of Mucosal Entry of HIV-1 and Mucosal Immunity, Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Cochin Institute, INSERM, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Yonatan Ganor
- Laboratory of Mucosal Entry of HIV-1 and Mucosal Immunity, Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Cochin Institute, INSERM, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Sonia Henry
- Laboratory of Mucosal Entry of HIV-1 and Mucosal Immunity, Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Cochin Institute, INSERM, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Diane Damotte
- Anatomy and Pathological Cytology Service, GH Cochin-Saint Vincent de Paul, Paris, France
| | - Marc Revol
- Plastic Surgery Service, Saint Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | | | - Morgane Bomsel
- Laboratory of Mucosal Entry of HIV-1 and Mucosal Immunity, Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Cochin Institute, INSERM, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
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14
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das Neves J, Nunes R, Rodrigues F, Sarmento B. Nanomedicine in the development of anti-HIV microbicides. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2016; 103:57-75. [PMID: 26829288 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2016.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Prevention plays an invaluable role in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The use of microbicides is considered an interesting potential approach for topical pre-exposure prophylaxis of HIV sexual transmission. The prospects of having an effective product available are expected to be fulfilled in the near future as driven by recent and forthcoming results of clinical trials. Different dosage forms and delivery strategies have been proposed and tested for multiple microbicide drug candidates presently at different stages of the development pipeline. One particularly interesting approach comprises the application of nanomedicine principles to the development of novel anti-HIV microbicides, but its implications to efficacy and safety are not yet fully understood. Nanotechnology-based systems, either presenting inherent anti-HIV activity or acting as drug nanocarriers, may significantly influence features such as drug solubility, stability of active payloads, drug release, interactions between active moieties and virus/cells, intracellular drug delivery, drug targeting, safety, antiviral activity, mucoadhesive behavior, drug distribution and tissue penetration, and pharmacokinetics. The present manuscript provides a comprehensive and holistic overview of these topics as relevant to the development of vaginal and rectal microbicides. In particular, recent advances pertaining inherently active microbicide nanosystems and microbicide drug nanocarriers are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- José das Neves
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; CESPU, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde & Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, Gandra, Portugal.
| | - Rute Nunes
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisca Rodrigues
- REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; CESPU, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde & Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, Gandra, Portugal.
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15
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Hagen S, Altfeld M. The X awakens: multifactorial ramifications of sex-specific differences in HIV-1 infection. J Virus Erad 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s2055-6640(20)30473-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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16
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Eade CR, Diaz C, Chen S, Cole AL, Cole AM. HIV-Enhancing Factors Are Secreted by Reproductive Epithelia upon Inoculation with Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria. Protein Pept Lett 2016; 22:672-80. [PMID: 25751267 DOI: 10.2174/0929866522666150309155735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Revised: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis is a common reproductive infection in which commensal vaginal lactobacilli are displaced by a mixed population of pathogenic bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis increases susceptibility to HIV, and it has been suggested that host innate immune responses to pathogenic bacteria contribute to enhanced infection, yet the cellular mechanisms mediating the increased HIV susceptibility remain uncharacterized. We evaluated the HIV-enhancing effects of bacterial vaginosis by inoculating endocervical epithelia with Atopobium vaginae, a bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria, and assaying secreted factors for HIV-enhancing activity. When epithelia and A. vaginae were cocultured, we observed increased HIV-enhancing activity mediated by secreted low molecular weight factors. From this complex mixture we identified several upregulated host proteins, which functioned in combination to enhance HIV infection. These studies suggest that the host immune response to bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria results in the release of HIV-enhancing factors. The combined activity of bacterial vaginosis-induced proteins likely mediates HIV enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Alexander M Cole
- 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Building 20, Room 236, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816, USA.
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17
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Buckley N, Huber A, Lo Y, Castle PE, Kemal K, Burk RD, Strickler HD, Einstein MH, Young M, Anastos K, Herold BC. Association of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus with Genital Tract Mucosal Immune Factors in HIV-Infected Women. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 75:146-54. [PMID: 26685115 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM High-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is prevalent in HIV-infected women and may be associated with mucosal changes that promote HIV replication. METHOD OF STUDY Innate immune molecules, antimicrobial activity, HIV RNA, and HPV DNA genotypes were measured in a cross-sectional study of 128 HIV-infected women categorized into HPV-16 (n = 8), other HR-HPV (n = 41), and non-HR-HPV controls (n = 79). RESULTS Compared to controls, HR-HPV groups had higher plasma viral loads (P = 0.004), lower CD4 cells (P = 0.02), more genital tract HIV RNA (P = 0.03), greater number of different HPV types (P < 0.001), higher cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) IL-1α (P = 0.03) and human beta-defensin 2 (HBD2) (P = 0.049), and less anti-HIVB al activity (P = 0.03). HPV-16 remained significantly associated with higher HBD2 (P = 0.03), higher IL-1α (P = 0.009), and lower anti-HIVB aL activity (P = 0.03) compared to controls after adjusting for plasma viral load and CD4 T cell count. CONCLUSION HR-HPV is associated with mucosal changes in HIV-infected women that could adversely impact genital tract health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niall Buckley
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Ashley Huber
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Yungtai Lo
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Philip E Castle
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Kimdar Kemal
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Robert D Burk
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Howard D Strickler
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Mark H Einstein
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Mary Young
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Betsy C Herold
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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18
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Pellett Madan R, Masson L, Tugetman J, Werner L, Grobler A, Mlisana K, Lo Y, Che D, Arnold KB, Karim SSA, Passmore JAS, Herold BC. Innate Antibacterial Activity in Female Genital Tract Secretions Is Associated with Increased Risk of HIV Acquisition. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2015; 31:1153-9. [PMID: 26061218 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2015.0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Greater inhibitory activity against Escherichia coli and levels of human β defensin (HBD)-2 in genital tract secretions predicted HIV acquisition in women in the HPTN 035 trial. We investigated whether higher levels of E. coli inhibitory activity and antimicrobial peptides in cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) samples predicted HIV acquisition in women in the CAPRISA 002 Acute Infection Study. E. coli inhibitory activity and antimicrobial peptides were quantified in CVL from a subset of CAPRISA 002 participants who did not seroconvert (n=39) and from seroconverting women prior to infection (n=17) and during acute infection (n=11). Women who acquired HIV had significantly greater preinfection CVL E. coli inhibitory activity (p=0.01) and HBD-1 levels (p=0.02) compared to women who remained uninfected. Preinfection E. coli inhibitory activity remained significantly associated with seroconversion following adjustment for the presence of bacterial vaginosis (OR 1.45; 95% CI 1.07, 1.97). Partial least squares discriminant analysis confirmed that preinfection CVL E. coli inhibitory activity, together with higher CVL concentrations of HBD-1 and secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor, distinguished seroconverters from nonseroconverters with 67% calibration accuracy. CVL concentrations of human neutrophil peptides (HNP) 1-3 increased significantly with acute infection (p=0.001) and correlated with plasma viral set point (r=0.66, p=0.03). E. coli inhibitory activity in genital tract secretions could provide a biomarker of HIV risk. The correlation between HNP 1-3 and viral set point merits further investigation of the relationship between mucosal inflammation during early HIV infection and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lindi Masson
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Jessica Tugetman
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Lise Werner
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Anneke Grobler
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Koleka Mlisana
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, National Health Laboratory Service, Durban, South Africa
| | - Yungtai Lo
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Denise Che
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Kelly B. Arnold
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Salim S. Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Jo-Ann S. Passmore
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Betsy C. Herold
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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19
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Guthrie BL, Introini A, Roxby AC, Choi RY, Bosire R, Lohman-Payne B, Hirbod T, Farquhar C, Broliden K. Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Use Is Associated With Elevated Innate Immune Effector Molecules in Cervicovaginal Secretions of HIV-1-Uninfected Women. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 69:1-10. [PMID: 25622059 PMCID: PMC4424097 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The effects of sex hormones on the immune defenses of the female genital mucosa and its susceptibility to infections are poorly understood. The injectable hormonal contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) may increase the risk for HIV-1 acquisition. We assessed the local concentration in the female genital mucosa of cationic polypeptides with reported antiviral activity in relation to DMPA use. METHODS HIV-1-uninfected women were recruited from among couples testing for HIV in Nairobi, Kenya. Cervicovaginal secretion samples were collected, and the concentrations of HNP1-3, LL-37, lactoferrin, HBD-2, and SLPI were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Levels of cationic polypeptides in cervicovaginal secretions were compared between women who were not using hormonal contraception and those using DMPA, oral, or implantable contraception. RESULTS Among 228 women, 165 (72%) reported not using hormonal contraception at enrollment, 41 (18%) used DMPA, 16 (7%) used an oral contraceptive, and 6 (3%) used a contraceptive implant. Compared with nonusers of hormonal contraception, DMPA users had significantly higher mean levels of HNP1-3 (2.38 vs. 2.04 log₁₀ ng/mL; P = 0.024), LL-37 (0.81 vs. 0.40 log10 ng/mL; P = 0.027), and lactoferrin (3.03 vs. 2.60 log₁₀ ng/mL; P = 0.002), whereas SLPI and HBD-2 were similar. CONCLUSIONS Although all analyzed cationic polypeptides have intrinsic antiviral capacity, their interaction and cumulative effect on female genital mucosa susceptibility to infections in vivo has yet to be unraveled. This study suggests a potential mechanism underlying the effect of DMPA on the innate immune defenses, providing a rationale to investigate its effect on HIV-1 acquisition risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon L. Guthrie
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Andrea Introini
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alison C. Roxby
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Robert Y. Choi
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Rose Bosire
- Center for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Barbara Lohman-Payne
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Taha Hirbod
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kristina Broliden
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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20
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Rodriguez Garcia M, Patel MV, Shen Z, Fahey JV, Biswas N, Mestecky J, Wira CR. Mucosal Immunity in the Human Female Reproductive Tract. Mucosal Immunol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-415847-4.00108-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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21
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Co-occurrence of Trichomonas vaginalis and bacterial vaginosis and vaginal shedding of HIV-1 RNA. Sex Transm Dis 2014; 41:173-9. [PMID: 24521723 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are independently associated with increased risk of vaginal shedding in HIV-positive women. Because these 2 conditions commonly co-occur, this study was undertaken to examine the association between TV/BV co-occurrence and vaginal shedding of HIV-1 RNA. METHODS HIV-positive women attending outpatient HIV clinics in 3 urban US cities underwent a clinical examination; were screened for TV, BV, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and vulvovaginal candidiasis; and completed a behavioral survey. Women shedding HIV-1 RNA vaginally (≥50 copies/mL) were compared with women who had an undetectable (<50 copies/mL) vaginal viral load to determine if women who were TV positive and BV positive or had co-occurrence of TV/BV had higher odds of shedding vaginally when compared with women who did not have these conditions. RESULTS In this sample of 373 HIV-positive women, 43.1% (n = 161) had co-occurrence of TV/BV and 33.2% (n = 124) were shedding HIV-1 RNA vaginally. The odds of shedding HIV vaginally in the presence of TV alone or BV alone and when TV/BV co-occurred were 4.07 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.78-9.37), 5.65 (95% CI, 2.64-12.01), and 18.63 (95% CI, 6.71-51.72), respectively, when compared with women with no diagnosis of TV or BV, and after adjusting for age, antiretroviral therapy status, and plasma viral load. CONCLUSIONS T. vaginalis and BV were independently and synergistically related to vaginal shedding of HIV-1 RNA. Screening and prompt treatment of these 2 conditions among HIV-positive women are important not only clinically but for HIV prevention, as well.
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Hirbod T, Kong X, Kigozi G, Ndyanabo A, Serwadda D, Prodger JL, Tobian AA, Nalugoda F, Wawer MJ, Shahabi K, Rojas OL, Gommerman JL, Broliden K, Kaul R, Gray RH. HIV acquisition is associated with increased antimicrobial peptides and reduced HIV neutralizing IgA in the foreskin prepuce of uncircumcised men. PLoS Pathog 2014; 10:e1004416. [PMID: 25275513 PMCID: PMC4183701 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1004416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The foreskin is the site of most HIV acquisition in uncircumcised heterosexual men. Although HIV-exposed, seronegative (HESN) uncircumcised men demonstrate HIV-neutralizing IgA and increased antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in the foreskin prepuce, no prospective studies have examined the mucosal immune correlates of HIV acquisition. METHODS To assess the association of foreskin immune parameters with HIV acquisition, antimicrobial peptides and IgA with the capacity to neutralize a primary clade C HIV strain were quantified by blinded investigators, using sub-preputial swabs collected longitudinally during a randomized trial of male circumcision for HIV prevention in Rakai, Uganda. RESULTS Participants were 99 men who acquired HIV (cases) and 109 randomly selected controls who remained HIV seronegative. At enrollment, 44.4% of cases vs. 69.7% of controls demonstrated IgA neutralization (adjusted OR = 0.31; 95% CI, 0.16-0.61). IgA neutralization was detected in 38.7% of cases and 70.7% of controls at the last seronegative case visit prior to HIV acquisition and the comparable control visit (adjusted OR 0.21; 95% CI, 0.11-0.39). Levels of the α-defensins and secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) were over ten-fold higher in the foreskin prepuce of cases who acquired HIV, both at enrollment (mean 4.43 vs. 3.03 and 5.98 vs. 4.61 log(n) pg/mL, P = 0.005 and 0.009, respectively), and at the last seronegative visit (mean 4.81 vs. 3.15 and 6.46 vs. 5.20 log(n) pg/mL, P = 0.0002 and 0.013). CONCLUSIONS This prospective, blinded analysis is the first to assess the immune correlates of HIV acquisition in the foreskin. HIV-neutralizing IgA, previously associated with the HESN phenotype, was a biomarker of HIV protection, but other HESN associations correlated with increased HIV acquisition. This emphasizes the importance of prospective epidemiological studies or in vitro tissue studies to define the impact of mucosal parameters on HIV risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taha Hirbod
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xiangrong Kong
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | | | - David Serwadda
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Kalisizo, Uganda
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jessica L. Prodger
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aaron A. Tobian
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Maria J. Wawer
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Kalisizo, Uganda
| | - Kamnoosh Shahabi
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Olga L. Rojas
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Kristina Broliden
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Ronald H. Gray
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Kalisizo, Uganda
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23
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Abstract
Cyclic peptides are found in a diverse range of organisms and are characterized by their stability and role in defense. Why is only one class of cyclic peptides found in mammals? Possibly we have not looked hard enough for them, or the technologies needed to identify them are not fully developed. We also do not yet understand their intriguing biosynthesis from two separate gene products. Addressing these challenges will require the application of chemical tools and insights from other classes of cyclic peptides. Herein, we highlight recent developments in the characterization of theta defensins and describe the important role that chemistry has played in delineating their modes of action. Furthermore, we emphasize the potential of theta defensins as antimicrobial agents and scaffolds for peptide drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C. Conibear
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072 QLD (Australia) http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/index.html?page=11695
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072 QLD (Australia) http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/index.html?page=11695
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Introini A, Kaldensjö T, Hirbod T, Röhl M, Tjernlund A, Andersson S, Broliden K. Expression profiles of antimicrobial peptides in the genital tract of women using progesterone intrauterine devices versus combined oral contraceptives. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 72:475-84. [PMID: 25087845 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 07/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Sex hormones can influence the immune defenses of the female genital tract (FGT) and its susceptibility to infections. Here we investigated the effect of different hormonal contraceptives on the production of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in different compartments of the female genital mucosa (FGM), secretions and tissue. METHOD OF STUDY Cervicovaginal secretions (CVS) and ectocervical tissue samples obtained from women using progesterone intrauterine devices (pIUD) (n = 23) and combined oral contraceptives (COC) (n = 23) were analyzed for the expression and in situ localization of HNP1-3, BD-2, LL-37, SLPI and trappin-2 by ELISA, real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Women using COC had significantly lower mRNA levels of BD-2 and trappin-2 in ectocervical tissue than pIUD users. The two groups showed no differences in CVS concentration, as well as similar in situ expression patterns in ectocervical tissue, of all five AMPs. CONCLUSIONS The use of hormonal contraceptives influences AMP expression differently in genital secretions compared to ectocervical tissue. This suggests that the impact of sex hormones on local immune defenses varies in different compartments of the FGM, and likely in different locations across the FGT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Introini
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Thakar M, Patil R, Shukre S, Bichare S, Kadam P, Khopkar P, Ghate M, Paranjape R. Short communication: genital tumor growth factor-β1 levels in HIV-infected Indian women are associated with reduced levels of innate antimicrobial products and increased HIV shedding. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2014; 30:648-53. [PMID: 24547777 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2013.0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor growth factor (TGF)-β1 is a cytokine with potent immunoinhibitory functions and is known to be secreted by vaginal epithelial cells. The present study was designed to determine the association of cervicovaginal levels of TGF- β1 with various innate immune secretions such as cytokines and antimicrobial polypeptides [Trappin-2/Elafin and secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI)] and cervical HIV shedding in HIV-infected Indian women. TGF- β1, antimicrobial polypeptides, and cytokine levels were estimated in the cervicovaginal lavages (CVLs) of 36 age-matched HIV-infected and 31 HIV-uninfected asymptomatic Indian women using an ELISA and Bio-Plex Assay, respectively. The nonparametric Mann-Whitney test and Spearman's test were used to compare the levels from both the groups and to determine the association of the TGF-β1 levels with cervical viral shedding and antimicrobial peptides. The levels of Trappin-2/Elafin and SLPI were similar in the CVLs of HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women, but were significantly associated with a low cervical viral load (r=-0.501, p=0.005 for Trappin-2/Elafin and r=-0.488, p=0.007 for SLPI). Eleven (30.5%) of the 36 HIV-infected women showed 5- to 30-fold higher levels of TGF-β1 as compared to the levels in uninfected women. The TGF-β1 levels were significantly associated with higher cervical viral load (r=0.425, p=0.03) and with lower levels of Trappin-2/Elafin (r=-0.407, p=0.03) and SLPI (r=-0.405, p=0.04). The findings indicate a possible interdependent mechanism driving the identified higher TGF-β1 and lower antimicrobial peptide (Trappin-2/Elafin and SLPI) levels at the genital mucosa surface in HIV-infected women. We postulate that a combination of increased TGF-β1 secretion and altered levels of Trappin-2/Elafin and SLPI contributes to increased HIV shedding. The observation warrants further studies to identify the underlying mechanisms linking increased mucosal TGF-β1 levels and genital HIV shedding. Considering the known association of HIV and cervical cancers, it will also be important to assess the predictive capacity of TGF-β1 levels in HIV-associated cervical malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhuri Thakar
- National AIDS Research Institute, MIDC Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rahul Patil
- National AIDS Research Institute, MIDC Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Subodh Shukre
- National AIDS Research Institute, MIDC Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Shubhangi Bichare
- National AIDS Research Institute, MIDC Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Poonam Kadam
- National AIDS Research Institute, MIDC Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Priyanka Khopkar
- National AIDS Research Institute, MIDC Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Manisha Ghate
- National AIDS Research Institute, MIDC Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ramesh Paranjape
- National AIDS Research Institute, MIDC Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Prolonged expression of an anti-HIV-1 gp120 minibody to the female rhesus macaque lower genital tract by AAV gene transfer. Gene Ther 2014; 21:802-10. [PMID: 24965083 PMCID: PMC5530589 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2014.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Revised: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Topical microbicides are a leading strategy for prevention of HIV mucosal infection to women, however, numerous pharmacokinetic limitations associated with coitally-related dosing strategy have contributed to their limited success. Here we test the hypothesis that adeno-associated virus (AAV) mediated delivery of the b12 human anti-HIV-1 gp120 minibody gene to the lower genital tract of female rhesus macaques (Rh) can provide prolonged expression of b12 minibodies in the cervical-vaginal secretions. Gene transfer studies demonstrated that, of various GFP-expressing AAV serotypes, AAV-6 most efficiently transduced freshly immortalized and primary genital epithelial cells (PGECs) of female Rh in vitro. In addition, AAV-6-b12 minibody transduction of Rh PGECs led to inhibition of SHIV162p4 transmigration and virus infectivity in vitro. AAV-6-GFP could also successfully transduce vaginal epithelial cells of Rh when applied intra-vaginally, including p63+ epithelial stem cells. Moreover, intra-vaginal application of AAV-6-b12 to female Rh resulted in prolonged minibody detection in their vaginal secretions throughout the 79 day study period. These data provide proof-of-principle that AAV-6-mediated delivery of anti-HIV broadly neutralizing antibody (BnAb) genes to the lower genital tract of female Rh results in persistent minibody detection for several months. This strategy offers promise that an anti-HIV-1 genetic microbicide strategy may be possible in which topical application of AAV vector, with periodic reapplication as needed, may provide sustained local BnAb expression and protection.
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28
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Van Raemdonck G, Zegels G, Coen E, Vuylsteke B, Jennes W, Van Ostade X. Increased Serpin A5 levels in the cervicovaginal fluid of HIV-1 exposed seronegatives suggest that a subtle balance between serine proteases and their inhibitors may determine susceptibility to HIV-1 infection. Virology 2014; 458-459:11-21. [PMID: 24928035 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2014.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Revised: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
HIV-exposed seronegative individuals (HESNs) are persons who remain seronegative despite repeated exposure to HIV, suggesting an in vivo resistance mechanism to HIV. Elucidation of endogenous factors responsible for this phenomenon may aid in the development of new classes of microbicides and therapeutics. We compared cervicovaginal protein abundance profiles between high-risk HESN and two control groups: low-risk HESN and HIV-positives. Four iTRAQ-based quantitative experiments were performed using samples classified based on presence/absence of particular gynaecological conditions. After statistical analysis, two proteins were shown to be differentially abundant between high-risk HESNs and control groups. Serpin A5, a serine proteinase inhibitor and Myeloblastin, a serine protease, were up- and downregulated, respectively. Commercially available ELISA assays were used to confirm differential Serpin A5 levels. These results suggest that HIV resistance in CVF of HESNs is the result of a delicate balance between two complementary mechanisms: downregulation of serine proteinases and upregulation of their inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geert Van Raemdonck
- Laboratory of Protein Science, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES) and Centre for Proteomics and Mass spectrometry (CFP-CeProMa), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Geert Zegels
- Laboratory of Protein Science, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES) and Centre for Proteomics and Mass spectrometry (CFP-CeProMa), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Edmond Coen
- Laboratory of Protein Science, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES) and Centre for Proteomics and Mass spectrometry (CFP-CeProMa), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- HIV/STI Epidemiology and Control Unit, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium Projet and RETRO-CI, Abidjan, Côte d׳Ivoire
| | - Wim Jennes
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Xaveer Van Ostade
- Laboratory of Protein Science, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES) and Centre for Proteomics and Mass spectrometry (CFP-CeProMa), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
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29
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Ghosh M. Secreted mucosal antimicrobials in the female reproductive tract that are important to consider for HIV prevention. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 71:575-88. [PMID: 24754244 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 03/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The mucosal microenvironment of the female reproductive tract (FRT) is rich in secreted endogenous antimicrobials that provide the first line of defense against pathogens. This review focuses on the spectrum of secreted antimicrobials found in the FRT that have anti-HIV functions and are regulated by the natural hormonal changes in women's life cycle. Understanding the complex nature of FRT, mucosal microenvironment will enable us to better design therapeutic interventions for women against sexually transmitted pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mimi Ghosh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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30
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Anderson DJ, Marathe J, Pudney J. The structure of the human vaginal stratum corneum and its role in immune defense. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 71:618-23. [PMID: 24661416 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The superficial layers of the human vaginal epithelium, which form an interface between host and environment, are comprised of dead flattened cells that have undergone a terminal cell differentiation program called cornification. This entails extrusion of nuclei and intercellular organelles, and the depletion of functional DNA and RNA precluding the synthesis of new proteins. As a consequence, the terminally differentiated cells do not maintain robust intercellular junctions and have a diminished capacity to actively respond to microbial exposure, yet the vaginal stratum corneum (SC) mounts an effective defense against invasive microbial infections. The vaginal SC in reproductive-aged women is comprised of loosely connected glycogen-filled cells, which are permeable to bacterial and viral microbes as well as molecular and cellular mediators of immune defense. We propose here that the vaginal SC provides a unique microenvironment that maintains vaginal health by fostering endogenous lactobacilli and retaining critical mediators of acquired and innate immunity. A better understanding of the molecular and physicochemical properties of the vaginal SC could promote the design of more effective topical drugs and microbicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J Anderson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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31
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Abstract
Recent advances in the immunology, pathogenesis, and prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continue to reveal clues to the mechanisms involved in the progressive immunodeficiency attributed to infection, but more importantly have shed light on the correlates of immunity to infection and disease progression. HIV selectively infects, eliminates, and/or dysregulates several key cells of the human immune system, thwarting multiple arms of the host immune response, and inflicting severe damage to mucosal barriers, resulting in tissue infiltration of 'symbiotic' intestinal bacteria and viruses that essentially become opportunistic infections promoting systemic immune activation. This leads to activation and recruitment or more target cells for perpetuating HIV infection, resulting in persistent, high-level viral replication in lymphoid tissues, rapid evolution of resistant strains, and continued evasion of immune responses. However, vaccine studies and studies of spontaneous controllers are finally providing correlates of immunity from protection and disease progression, including virus-specific CD4(+) T-cell responses, binding anti-bodies, innate immune responses, and generation of antibodies with potent antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity activity. Emerging correlates of immunity indicate that prevention of HIV infection may be possible through effective vaccine strategies that protect and stimulate key regulatory cells and immune responses in susceptible hosts. Furthermore, immune therapies specifically directed toward boosting specific aspects of the immune system may eventually lead to a cure for HIV-infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanbin Xu
- Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, Covington, LA 70433, USA
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32
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Buhimschi CS, Baumbusch MA, Campbell KH, Dulay AT, Buhimschi IA. Insight into innate immunity of the uterine cervix as a host defense mechanism against infection and preterm birth. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/17474108.4.1.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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33
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Mendez-Figueroa H, Anderson B. Vaginal innate immunity: alteration during pregnancy and its impact on pregnancy outcomes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eog.11.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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34
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Amjadi F, Salehi E, Mehdizadeh M, Aflatoonian R. Role of the innate immunity in female reproductive tract. Adv Biomed Res 2014; 3:1. [PMID: 24592358 PMCID: PMC3928842 DOI: 10.4103/2277-9175.124626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The mucosal immune system in the female reproductive tract (FRT) is well equipped to meet the sexually transmitted pathogens, allogeneic sperm, and the immunologically distinct fetus. Analysis of the FRT indicates that epithelial cells provide a physical barrier against pathogens and microbial infections as well as secretions containing anti-microbial peptides, cytokines, and chemokines which recruit and activate immune cells. Epithelial and immune cells confer protection in part through Toll-like receptors. The aim of this literature is to review the diverse components of the innate immune system, contributing to an exclusive protection system throughout the FRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemehsadat Amjadi
- Applied Physiology Research Center and Department of Physiology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ensieh Salehi
- Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Department of Anatomy, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Science, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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Wilson SS, Wiens ME, Smith JG. Antiviral mechanisms of human defensins. J Mol Biol 2013; 425:4965-80. [PMID: 24095897 PMCID: PMC3842434 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2013.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2013] [Revised: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Defensins are an effector component of the innate immune system with broad antimicrobial activity. Humans express two types of defensins, α- and β-defensins, which have antiviral activity against both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. The diversity of defensin-sensitive viral species reflects a multitude of antiviral mechanisms. These include direct defensin targeting of viral envelopes, glycoproteins, and capsids in addition to inhibition of viral fusion and post-entry neutralization. Binding and modulation of host cell surface receptors and disruption of intracellular signaling by defensins can also inhibit viral replication. In addition, defensins can function as chemokines to augment and alter adaptive immune responses, revealing an indirect antiviral mechanism. Nonetheless, many questions regarding the antiviral activities of defensins remain. Although significant mechanistic data are known for α-defensins, molecular details for β-defensin inhibition are mostly lacking. Importantly, the role of defensin antiviral activity in vivo has not been addressed due to the lack of a complete defensin knockout model. Overall, the antiviral activity of defensins is well established as are the variety of mechanisms by which defensins achieve this inhibition; however, additional research is needed to fully understand the role of defensins in viral pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jason G. Smith
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Box 357735, 1705 North East Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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36
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Aboud L, Ball TB, Tjernlund A, Burgener A. The Role of Serpin and Cystatin Antiproteases in Mucosal Innate Immunity and their Defense against HIV. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 71:12-23. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Aboud
- Department of Medical Microbiology; University of Manitoba; Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
| | - Terry Blake Ball
- Department of Medical Microbiology; University of Manitoba; Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
- Department of Immunology; University of Manitoba; Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
- National HIV and Retrovirology laboratory; Public Health Agency of Canada; Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
| | | | - Adam Burgener
- Department of Medical Microbiology; University of Manitoba; Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
- National HIV and Retrovirology laboratory; Public Health Agency of Canada; Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
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Genovese L, Nebuloni M, Alfano M. Cell-Mediated Immunity in Elite Controllers Naturally Controlling HIV Viral Load. Front Immunol 2013; 4:86. [PMID: 23577012 PMCID: PMC3620550 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2013.00086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The natural course of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is characterized by high viral load, depletion of immune cells, and immunodeficiency, ultimately leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome phase and the occurrence of opportunistic infections and diseases. Since the discovery of HIV in the early 1980s a naturally selected population of infected individuals has been emerged in the last years, characterized by being infected for many years, with viremia constantly below detectable level and poor depletion of immune cells. These individuals are classified as “elite controllers (EC) or suppressors” and do not develop disease in the absence of anti-retroviral therapy. Unveiling host factors and immune responses responsible for the elite status will likely provide clues for the design of therapeutic vaccines and functional cures. Scope of this review was to examine and discuss differences of the cell-mediated immune responses between HIV+ individuals with disease progression and EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Genovese
- AIDS Immunopathogenesis Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute Milan, Italy
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38
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Abstract
Cervical and vaginal epithelia are primary barriers against HIV type I (HIV-1) entry during male-to-female transmission. Cervical mucus (CM) is produced by the endocervix and forms a layer locally as well as in the vaginal compartment in the form of cervicovaginal mucus (CVM). To study the potential barrier function of each mucus type during HIV-1 transmission, we quantified HIV-1 mobility in CM and CVM ex vivo using fluorescent microscopy. Virions and 200-nm PEGylated beads were digitally tracked and mean-squared displacement was calculated. The mobility of beads increased significantly in CVM compared with CM, consistent with the known decreased mucin concentration of CVM. Unexpectedly, HIV-1 diffusion was significantly hindered in the same CVM samples in which bead diffusion was unhindered. Inhibition of virus transport was envelope-independent. Our results reveal a previously unknown activity in CVM that is capable of impeding HIV-1 mobility to enhance mucosal barrier function.
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Zumoffen CM, Gil R, Caille AM, Morente C, Munuce MJ, Ghersevich SA. A protein isolated from human oviductal tissue in vitro secretion, identified as human lactoferrin, interacts with spermatozoa and oocytes and modulates gamete interaction. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:1297-308. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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40
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Rishi P, Singh AP, Arora S, Garg N, Kaur IP. Revisiting eukaryotic anti-infective biotherapeutics. Crit Rev Microbiol 2013; 40:281-92. [PMID: 23317462 DOI: 10.3109/1040841x.2012.749210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Emerging drug resistance has forced the scientific community to revisit the observational data documented in the folklore and come up with novel and effective alternatives. Candidates from eukaryotic origin including herbal products and antimicrobial peptides are finding a strategic place in the therapeutic armamentarium against infectious diseases. These agents have recently gained interest owing to their versatile applications. Present review encompasses the use of these alternative strategies in their native or designer form, alone or in conjunction with antibiotics, as possible remedial measures. Further to this, the limitations or the possible concerns associated with these options are also discussed at length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Rishi
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University , Chandigarh, Chandigarh , India and
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Farzin A, Boyer P, Ank B, Nielsen-Saines K, Bryson Y. Amniotic fluid exhibits an innate inhibitory activity against HIV type 1 replication in vitro. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2013; 29:77-83. [PMID: 22998428 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2011.0355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Indirect evidence suggests that amniotic fluid (AF) may play a role in the pathogenesis of in utero HIV-1 transmission. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential innate inhibitory role of AF on HIV replication, which may contribute to protection of the fetus against intrauterine transmission. AF was collected from term HIV-1-negative women undergoing scheduled cesarean section. The inhibitory effect of AF against HIV-1(BA-L) replication was tested in vitro with or without the addition of protease inhibitor cocktail (PIC) in PHA-stimulated PBMC cultures. Quantitative measurement of human neutrophil peptides 1-3 (HNP1-3) was performed on all AF samples, using an ELISA assay. AF exhibited a dose-dependent inhibitory activity against HIV-1(BA-L) replication, with all samples (n=12) reaching significant inhibitory effect using 50% AF. In vitro, this activity decreased over time, but was able to be sustained with the addition of PIC. The HNP1-3 concentration in AF samples (n=12) ranged from undetectable (<41 pg/ml, n=3) to >250,000 pg/ml with a median of 5,146 pg/ml. AF exhibited a significant and dose-dependent innate inhibitory activity against HIV-1 replication, which was present in all AF samples tested. This effect was prolonged in the presence of PIC, suggesting that the inhibitory factor was in the cell-free protein fraction. The HNP1-3 concentration in AF was in the subinhibitory range for HIV with no correlation between its concentration and the HIV-1 inhibitory activity. These data show the presence of a significant innate inhibitory activity against HIV in AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Farzin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Pamela Boyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Bonnie Ank
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Karin Nielsen-Saines
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Yvonne Bryson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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Mhatre M, McAndrew T, Carpenter C, Burk RD, Einstein MH, Herold BC. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia is associated with genital tract mucosal inflammation. Sex Transm Dis 2012; 39:591-7. [PMID: 22801340 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0b013e318255aeef] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical studies demonstrate increased prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated disease in HIV-infected individuals and an increased risk of HIV acquisition in HPV-infected individuals. The mechanisms underlying this synergy are not defined. We hypothesize that women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) will exhibit changes in soluble mucosal immunity that may promote HPV persistence and facilitate HIV infection. METHODS The concentrations of immune mediators and endogenous anti-Escherichia coli activity in genital tract secretions collected by cervicovaginal lavage were compared in HIV-negative women with high-risk HPV-positive (HRHPV+) CIN-3 (n = 37), HRHPV+ CIN-1 (n = 12), or PAP-negative control subjects (n = 57). RESULTS Compared with control subjects, women with CIN-3 or CIN-1 displayed significantly higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, and IL-8 (P < 0.002) and significantly lower levels of anti-inflammatory mediators and antimicrobial peptides, including IL-1 receptor antagonist, secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (P < 0.01), and human β defensins 2 and 3 (P < 0.02). There was no significant difference in endogenous anti-E. coli activity after controlling for age and sample storage time. CONCLUSION HRHPV+ CIN is characterized by changes in soluble mucosal immunity that could contribute to HPV persistence. The observed mucosal inflammation suggests a mechanism that may also contribute to the epidemiologic link between persistent HPV and HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohak Mhatre
- Departments of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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Rothan HA, Han HC, Ramasamy TS, Othman S, Rahman NA, Yusof R. Inhibition of dengue NS2B-NS3 protease and viral replication in Vero cells by recombinant retrocyclin-1. BMC Infect Dis 2012; 12:314. [PMID: 23171075 PMCID: PMC3575220 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-12-314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global resurgence of dengue virus infections in many of the tropical and subtropical countries is a major concern. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of successful drugs that are both economical and offer a long-lasting protection. The viral NS2B-NS3 serine protease (NS2B-NS3pro) is a promising target for the development of drug-like inhibitors, which are not available at the moment. In this study, we report retrocyclin-1 (RC-1) production in E. coli as a recombinant peptide to test against dengue NS2B-NS3pro. METHODS Dengue NS2B-NS3pro was produced as a recombinant single chain protein in E. coli and purified by Ni+ affinity chromatography. The RC-1 peptide was produced in E. coli and the tri-disulphide bonds were reformed in a diluted alkaline environment. Protease assay was performed using a fluorogenic peptide substrate and measured by fluorescence spectrometry. Real-time PCR was used for quantification of dengue serotype 2 (DENV-2) viral RNA produced in Vero cells. RESULTS The RC-1 peptide inhibited the activity of recombinant NS2B-NS3pro with different values at 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) which are temperature dependent (28°C, 46.1 ± 1.7 μM; 37°C, 21.4 ± 1.6 μM; 40°C, 14.1 ± 1.2 μM). The presence of RC-1 significantly reduced viral replication in Vero cells infected with DENV-2 at simultaneous treatment after 48 hrs (70%) and 75 hrs (85%). Furthermore, moderate reduction in viral replication was observed at pre-treatment mode after 48 hrs (40%) and 72 hrs (38%) and post-treatment at 48 hrs (30%) and 72 hrs (45%). CONCLUSION Recombinant RC-1 inhibits DENV-2 replication in Vero cells by interfering with the activity of its serine protease. Thus, we propose that recombinant RC-1 is a potent, cost-effective dengue virus inhibitor. Therefore, it is suitable to consider RC-1 as a new candidate for drug development against dengue infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussin A Rothan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Furci L, Tolazzi M, Sironi F, Vassena L, Lusso P. Inhibition of HIV-1 infection by human α-defensin-5, a natural antimicrobial peptide expressed in the genital and intestinal mucosae. PLoS One 2012; 7:e45208. [PMID: 23028850 PMCID: PMC3459904 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0045208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND α-defensin-5 (HD5) is a key effector of the innate immune system with broad anti-bacterial and anti-viral activities. Specialized epithelial cells secrete HD5 in the genital and gastrointestinal mucosae, two anatomical sites that are critically involved in HIV-1 transmission and pathogenesis. We previously found that human neutrophil defensins (HNP)-1 and -2 inhibit HIV-1 entry by specific bilateral interaction both with the viral envelope and with its primary cellular receptor, CD4. Despite low amino acid identity, human defensin-5 (HD5) shares with HNPs a high degree of structural homology. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Here, we demonstrate that HD5 inhibits HIV-1 infection of primary CD4(+) T lymphocytes at low micromolar concentration under serum-free and low-ionic-strength conditions similar to those occurring in mucosal fluids. Blockade of HIV-1 infection was observed with both primary and laboratory-adapted strains and was independent of the viral coreceptor-usage phenotype. Similar to HNPs, HD5 inhibits HIV-1 entry into the target cell by interfering with the reciprocal interaction between the external envelope glycoprotein, gp120, and CD4. At high concentrations, HD5 was also found to downmodulate expression of the CXCR4 coreceptor, but not of CCR5. Consistent with its broad spectrum of activity, antibody competition studies showed that HD5 binds to a region overlapping with the CD4- and coreceptor-binding sites of gp120, but not to the V3 loop region, which contains the major determinants of coreceptor-usage specificity. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE These findings provide new insights into the first line of immune defense against HIV-1 at the mucosal level and open new perspectives for the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucinda Furci
- Unit of Human Virology, Department of Biological and Technological Research, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
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Shankar EM, Velu V, Vignesh R, Vijayaraghavalu S, Rukumani DV, Sabet NS. Recent advances targeting innate immunity-mediated therapies against HIV-1 infection. Microbiol Immunol 2012; 56:497-505. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1348-0421.2012.00485.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Factors Important to the Prioritization and Development of Successful Topical Microbicides for HIV-1. Mol Biol Int 2012; 2012:781305. [PMID: 22848826 PMCID: PMC3403474 DOI: 10.1155/2012/781305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant advancements in topical microbicide development have occurred since the prevention strategy was first described as a means to inhibit the sexual transmission of HIV-1. The lack of clinical efficacy of the first generation microbicide products has focused development attention on specific antiretroviral agents, and these agents have proven partially successful in human clinical trials. With greater understanding of vaginal and rectal virus infection, replication, and dissemination, better microbicide products and delivery strategies should result in products with enhanced potency. However, a variety of development gaps exist which relate to product dosing, formulation and delivery, and pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics which must be better understood in order to prioritize microbicide products for clinical development. In vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models must be optimized with regard to these development gaps in order to put the right product at the right place, at the right time, and at the right concentration for effective inhibition of virus transmission. As the microbicide field continues to evolve, we must harness the knowledge gained from unsuccessful and successful clinical trials and development programs to continuously enhance our preclinical development algorithms.
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Anderson BL, Ghosh M, Raker C, Fahey J, Song Y, Rouse DJ, Wira CR, Cu-Uvin S. In vitro anti-HIV-1 activity in cervicovaginal secretions from pregnant and nonpregnant women. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2012; 207:65.e1-10. [PMID: 22727351 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2012.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2012] [Revised: 04/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether cervicovaginal secretions inhibit HIV-1 infectivity in an in vitro model, and estimate concentration of immune mediators. STUDY DESIGN We enrolled midtrimester pregnant and regularly menstruating (nonpregnant) women. Cervicovaginal lavage was collected at 2 visits and incubated with HIV-1 and TZM-bl cells. Infectivity was compared with positive controls. Concentrations of immune mediators were compared between groups. RESULTS At enrollment, cervicovaginal lavage inhibited IIIB virus 88.2% and 82.4%, and BaL virus 72.8% and 77.9%, among pregnant (n = 13) and nonpregnant women (n = 9), respectively. At second visit, cervicovaginal lavage inhibited IIIB 89.7% and 82.5%, and BaL 77.4% and 69.9% among pregnant (n = 15) and nonpregnant women (n = 8), respectively (all P ≤ .04). Adjusting for body mass index, race, and protein content of cervicovaginal lavage, antimicrobials were suppressed but cytokines and chemokines were not markedly different in pregnancy. CONCLUSION Cervicovaginal secretions significantly suppress HIV-1 infectivity in this model. Concentrations of certain immune mediators are altered in pregnancy.
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Yount NY, Yeaman MR. Emerging themes and therapeutic prospects for anti-infective peptides. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2012; 52:337-60. [PMID: 22235859 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010611-134535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Pathogens resistant to most conventional anti-infectives are a harbinger of the need to discover and develop novel anti-infective agents and strategies. Endogenous host defense peptides (HDPs) have retained evolution-tested efficacy against pathogens that have become refractory to traditional antibiotics. Evidence indicates that HDPs target membrane integrity, bioenergetics, and other essential features of microbes that may be less mutable than conventional antibiotic targets. For these reasons, HDPs have received increasing attention as templates for development of potential anti-infective therapeutics. Unfortunately, advances toward this goal have proven disappointing, in part owing to limited understanding of relevant structure-activity and selective toxicity relationships in vivo, a limited number of reports and overall understanding of HDP pharmacology, and the difficulty of cost-effective production of such peptides on a commodity scale. However, recent molecular insights and technology innovations have led to novel HDP-based and mimetic anti-infective peptide candidates designed to overcome these limitations. Although initial setbacks have presented challenges to therapeutic development, emerging themes continue to highlight the potential of HDP-based anti-infectives as a platform for next-generation therapeutics that will help address the growing threat of multidrug-resistant infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nannette Y Yount
- Divisions of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, Los Angeles County Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California 90509, USA
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50
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Levinson P, Choi RY, Cole AL, Hirbod T, Rhedin S, Payne B, Guthrie BL, Bosire R, Cole AM, Farquhar C, Broliden K. HIV-neutralizing activity of cationic polypeptides in cervicovaginal secretions of women in HIV-serodiscordant relationships. PLoS One 2012; 7:e31996. [PMID: 22389677 PMCID: PMC3289637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0031996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV exposed seronegative (HESN) women represent the population most in need of a prophylactic antiviral strategy. Mucosal cationic polypeptides can potentially be regulated for this purpose and we here aimed to determine their endogenous expression and HIV neutralizing activity in genital secretions of women at risk of HIV infection. Methodology/Principal Findings Cervicovaginal secretions (CVS) of Kenyan women in HIV-serodiscordant relationships (HESN, n = 164; HIV seropositive, n = 60) and low-risk controls (n = 72) were assessed for the cationic polypeptides HNP1–3, LL-37 and SLPI by ELISA and for HIV neutralizing activity by a PBMC-based assay using an HIV primary isolate. Median levels of HNP1–3 and LL-37 in CVS were similar across study groups. Neither HSV-2 serostatus, nor presence of bacterial vaginosis, correlated with levels of HNP1–3 or LL-37 in the HESN women. However, an association with their partner's viral load was observed. High viral load (>10,000 HIV RNA copies/ml plasma) correlated with higher levels of HNP1–3 and LL-37 (p = 0.04 and 0.03, respectively). SLPI was most abundant in the low-risk group and did not correlate with male partner's viral load in the HESN women. HIV neutralizing activity was found in CVS of all study groups. In experimental studies, selective depletion of cationic polypeptides from CVS rendered the remaining CVS fraction non-neutralizing, whereas the cationic polypeptide fraction retained the activity. Furthermore, recombinant HNP1–3 and LL-37 could induce neutralizing activity when added to CVS lacking intrinsic activity. Conclusions/Significance These findings show that CVS from HESN, low-risk, and HIV seropositive women contain HIV neutralizing activity. Although several innate immune proteins, including HNP1–3 and LL-37, contribute to this activity these molecules can also have inflammatory properties. This balance is influenced by hormonal and environmental factors and in the present HIV serodiscordant couple cohort study we show that a partner's viral load is associated with levels of such molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Levinson
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robert Y. Choi
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Amy L. Cole
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, United States of America
| | - Taha Hirbod
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Samuel Rhedin
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Barbara Payne
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Brandon L. Guthrie
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Rose Bosire
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alexander M. Cole
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, United States of America
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Kristina Broliden
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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