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Vincze M, Sikovanyecz J, Földesi I, Surányi A, Várbíró S, Németh G, Kozinszky Z, Sikovanyecz J. How the Soluble Human Leukocyte Antigen-G levels in Amniotic Fluid and Maternal Serum Correlate with the Feto-Placental Growth in Uncomplicated Pregnancies. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:509. [PMID: 38790375 PMCID: PMC11117885 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11050509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Trophoblast-derived angiogenic factors are considered to play an important role in the pathophysiology of various complications of pregnancy. Human Leukocyte Antigen-G (HLA-G) belongs to the non-classical human major histocompatibility complex (MHC-I) molecule and has membrane-bound and soluble forms. HLA-G is primarily expressed by extravillous cytotrophoblasts located in the placenta between the maternal and fetal compartments and plays a pivotal role in providing immune tolerance. The aim of this study was to establish a relationship between concentrations of soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) in maternal serum and amniotic fluid at 16-22 weeks of gestation and the sonographic measurements of fetal and placental growth. Materials and methods: sHLA-G in serum and amniotic fluid, as well as fetal biometric data and placental volume and perfusion indices, were determined in 41 singleton pregnancies with no complications. The level of sHLA-G (U/mL) was tested with a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Results: The sHLA-G levels were unchanged both in amniotic fluid and serum during mid-pregnancy. The sHLA-G level in serum correlated positively with amniotic sHLA-G level (β = 0.63, p < 0.01). Serum sHLA-G level was significantly correlated with abdominal measurements (β = 0.41, p < 0.05) and estimated fetal weight (β = 0.41, p < 0.05). Conversely, amniotic sHLA-G level and placental perfusion (VI: β = -0.34, p < 0.01 and VFI: β = -0.44, p < 0.01, respectively) were negatively correlated. A low amniotic sHLA-G level was significantly associated with nuchal translucency (r = -0.102, p < 0.05). Conclusions: sHLA-G assayed in amniotic fluid might be a potential indicator of placental function, whereas the sHLA-G level in serum can be a prognostic factor for feto-placental insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márió Vincze
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (M.V.); (J.S.J.); (A.S.); (S.V.); (G.N.); (J.S.)
| | - János Sikovanyecz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (M.V.); (J.S.J.); (A.S.); (S.V.); (G.N.); (J.S.)
| | - Imre Földesi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Andrea Surányi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (M.V.); (J.S.J.); (A.S.); (S.V.); (G.N.); (J.S.)
| | - Szabolcs Várbíró
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (M.V.); (J.S.J.); (A.S.); (S.V.); (G.N.); (J.S.)
| | - Gábor Németh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (M.V.); (J.S.J.); (A.S.); (S.V.); (G.N.); (J.S.)
| | - Zoltan Kozinszky
- Capio Specialized Center for Gynecology, Postgången 53, 171 45 Solna, Sweden
| | - János Sikovanyecz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (M.V.); (J.S.J.); (A.S.); (S.V.); (G.N.); (J.S.)
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Xie Y, Gao Y, Liu W, Zou Y, Li C. Determination of soluble HLA-G serum levels in patients with adenomyosis and uterine fibroids before and after surgery. Hum Immunol 2023:S0198-8859(23)00060-5. [PMID: 37059598 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2023.03.006] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Adenomyosis is a benign gynaecological disease caused by the growth of endometrial tissue in the myometrium that affects approximately 30 % of child-bearing-age women. We evaluated the levels of soluble human leukocyte antigen G (sHLA-G) in the serum of patients with adenomyosis before and after treatment. Serum samples of 34 patients with adenomyosis and 31 patients with uterine fibroids were collected before and after the operation and were analysed for sHLA-G levels byELISAassay. The preoperative levels of serum sHLA-G in the adenomyosis group (28.05 ± 2.466 ng/ml) were significantly higher than those in the uterine fibroid group (18.53 ± 1.435 ng/ml) (P < 0.05). Serum sHLA-G levels in the adenomyosis group showed a decreasing trend at different time points after surgery (28.05 ± 14.38 ng/ml, 18.41 ± 8.34 ng/ml, and 14.45 ± 5.77 ng/ml). Adenomyosis patients who underwent total hysterectomy (n = 20) had a more significant decrease in sHLA-G levels in the early postoperative period (2 days post-operative) than those who underwent partial hysterectomy (n = 14). These results suggest that immunologic dysfunctions may be detected in patients with adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunkai Xie
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Yixuan Gao
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Yonghui Zou
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China.
| | - Changzhong Li
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China
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Peripheral HLA-G/ILT-2 immune checkpoint axis in acute and convalescent COVID-19 patients. Hum Immunol 2023:S0198-8859(23)00043-5. [PMID: 36925435 PMCID: PMC10011044 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2023.03.002] [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: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
The immunosuppressive non-classical human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) can elicits pro-viral activities by down-modulating immune responses. We analysed soluble forms of HLA-G, IL-6 and IL-10 as well as on immune effector cell expression of HLA-G and its cognate ILT-2 receptor in peripheral blood obtained from hospitalised and convalescent COVID-19 patients. Compared with convalescents (N = 202), circulating soluble HLA-G levels (total and vesicular-bound molecules) were significantly increased in hospitalised patients (N = 93) irrespective of the disease severity. During COVID-19, IL-6 and IL-10 levels were also elevated. Regarding the immune checkpoint expression of HLA-G/ILT-2 on peripheral immune effector cells, the frequencies of membrane-bound HLA-G on CD3+ and CD14+ cells were almost identical in patients during and post COVID-19, while the frequency of ILT-2 receptor on CD3+ and CD14+ cells was increased during acute infection. A multi-parametric correlation analysis of soluble HLA-G forms with IL-6, IL-10, activation markers CD25 and CD154, HLA-G, and ILT-2 expression on immune cells revealed a strong positive correlation of soluble HLA-G forms with membrane-bound HLA-G molecules on CD3+/CD14+ cells only in convalescents. During COVID-19, only vesicular-bound HLA-G were positively correlated with the activation marker CD25 on T cells. Thus, our data suggest that the elevated levels of soluble HLA-G in COVID-19 are due to increased expression in organ tissues other than circulating immune effector cells. The concomitant increased expression of soluble HLA-G and ILT-2 receptor frequencies supports the concept that the immune checkpoint HLA-G/ILT-2 plays a role in the immune-pathogenesis of COVID-19.
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Barbaro G, Inversetti A, Cristodoro M, Ticconi C, Scambia G, Di Simone N. HLA-G and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032557. [PMID: 36768880 PMCID: PMC9917226 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Placentation is an immunological compromise where maternal immune system cells and trophoblastic cells interact to reach an equilibrium condition. Although the cross talk between the two systems is complex and not completely understood, Human Leukocyte Antigen G (HLA-G), expressed on trophoblastic cell surfaces, seems to be one of the main molecules involved in the modulation of both local and systemic maternal immune response. The prevalence of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), probably underestimated, is 5% of all women who achieve pregnancy, and about 40-60% percent of RPL cases are unexplained. There is an immunological analogy between allograft rejection and miscarriage, and the purpose of this review is to describe how the HLA-G pathway alterations are involved in disrupting the immunologic balance and in increasing the risk of recurrent pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Barbaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.), L. go A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Roma, Italy
| | - Annalisa Inversetti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milano, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | - Martina Cristodoro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milano, Italy
| | - Carlo Ticconi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Ginecologia e Ostetricia, Università di Torvergata, 00168 Roma, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.), L. go A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Roma, Italy
- U.O.C. di Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, L. go A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Di Simone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milano, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Yang Y, Wang W, Weng J, Li H, Ma Y, Liu L, Ma W. Advances in the study of HLA class Ib in maternal-fetal immune tolerance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:976289. [PMID: 36105800 PMCID: PMC9465335 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.976289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The HLA class Ib molecule is an alloantigen that causes transplant rejection on behalf of individual human and plays an important role in maternal-fetal immune tolerance. Early studies on HLA class Ib focused on the mechanism of HLA-G-induced immune escape, but in recent years, studies on the mechanism of HLA-G have deepened and gradually explored the mechanism of HLA-E and HLA-F, which are also HLA class Ib molecules. In the maternal-fetal interface, trophoblast cells express HLA class Ib molecules to protect the fetus from maternal immune cells by binding to inhibitory receptors of decidual immune cells (DICs) and shifting Th1/Th2 balance toward Th2 bias. Further studies on the molecular mechanism of HLA class Ib molecules provide a reference for its application in the field of clinical assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Yang
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Endogenous Prophylactic of Ministry of Education of China, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wanning Wang
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Endogenous Prophylactic of Ministry of Education of China, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Weng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Weng, ; Lingyan Liu,
| | - Huifang Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanmin Ma
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lingyan Liu
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Endogenous Prophylactic of Ministry of Education of China, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Weng, ; Lingyan Liu,
| | - Wei Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Detection of all isoforms of human leukocyte antigen G in maternal serum could be clinically applied for prediction of preeclampsa. Pregnancy Hypertens 2022; 29:7-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Jasinski-Bergner S, Schmiedel D, Mandelboim O, Seliger B. Role of HLA-G in Viral Infections. Front Immunol 2022; 13:826074. [PMID: 35237271 PMCID: PMC8882596 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.826074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G is a non-classical HLA class I molecule, which has distinct features to classical HLA-A, -B, -C antigens, such as a low polymorphism, different splice variants, highly restricted, tightly regulated expression and immune modulatory properties. HLA-G expression in tumor cells and virus-infected cells, as well as the release of soluble HLA-G leads to escape from host immune surveillance. Increased knowledge of the link between HLA-G expression, viral infection and disease progression is urgently required, which highlights the possible use of HLA-G as novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for viral infections, but also as therapeutic target. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the expression, regulation, function and impact of HLA-G in the context of different viral infections including virus-associated cancers. The characterization of HLA-G-driven immune escape mechanisms involved in the interactions between host cells and viruses might result in the design of novel immunotherapeutic strategies targeting HLA-G and/or its interaction with its receptors on immune effector cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Jasinski-Bergner
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Dominik Schmiedel
- Department of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Development & Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) Design, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ofer Mandelboim
- The Lautenberg Center for General and Tumor Immunology, The BioMedical Research Institute Israel Canada of the Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Barbara Seliger
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Department of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Development & Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) Design, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Barbara Seliger,
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8
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The HLA-G Immune Checkpoint Plays a Pivotal Role in the Regulation of Immune Response in Autoimmune Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413348. [PMID: 34948145 PMCID: PMC8706866 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The human G-leukocyte antigen (HLA-G) molecule is a non-classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule. The pertinence of HLA-G has been investigated in numerous studies which have sought to elucidate the relevance of HLA-G in pathologic conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, cancers, and hematologic malignancies. One of the main goals of the current research on HLA-G is to use this molecule in clinical practice, either in diagnostics or as a therapeutic target. Since HLA-G antigens are currently considered as immunomodulatory molecules that are involved in reducing inflammatory and immune responses, in this review, we decided to focus on this group of antigens as potential determinants of progression in autoimmune diseases. This article highlights what we consider as recent pivotal findings on the immunomodulatory function of HLA-G, not only to establish the role of HLA-G in the human body, but also to explain how these proteins mediate the immune response.
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Li P, Wang N, Zhang Y, Wang C, Du L. HLA-G/sHLA-G and HLA-G-Bearing Extracellular Vesicles in Cancers: Potential Role as Biomarkers. Front Immunol 2021; 12:791535. [PMID: 34868081 PMCID: PMC8636042 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.791535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As a non-classic major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule, human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) is expressed in fetal-maternal interface and immunoprivileged site only in healthy condition, and in pathological conditions such as cancer, it can be de novo expressed. It is now widely accepted that HLA-G is a key molecule in the process of immune escape of cancer cells, which is ubiquitously expressed in the tumor environment. This raises the possibility that it may play an adverse role in tumor immunity. The expression level of HLA-G has been demonstrated to be highly correlated with clinical parameters in many tumors, and its potential significance in the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer has been postulated. However, because HLA-G itself has up to seven different subtypes, and for some subtypes, detected antibodies are few or absent, it is hard to evaluate the actual expression of HLA-G in tumors. In the present work, we described (a) the structure and three main forms of HLA-G, (b) summarized the mechanism of HLA-G in the immune escape of tumor cells, (c) discussed the potential role of HLA-G as a tumor marker, and reviewed (d) the methods for detecting and quantifying HLA-G.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peilong Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Engineering & Technology Research Center for Tumor Marker Detection , Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Clinical Laboratory, Jinan, China
| | - Nan Wang
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chuanxin Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Engineering & Technology Research Center for Tumor Marker Detection , Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Clinical Laboratory, Jinan, China
| | - Lutao Du
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Engineering & Technology Research Center for Tumor Marker Detection , Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Clinical Laboratory, Jinan, China
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Zhuang B, Shang J, Yao Y. HLA-G: An Important Mediator of Maternal-Fetal Immune-Tolerance. Front Immunol 2021; 12:744324. [PMID: 34777357 PMCID: PMC8586502 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.744324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal-fetal immune-tolerance occurs throughout the whole gestational trimester, thus a mother can accept a genetically distinct fetus without immunological aggressive behavior. HLA-G, one of the non-classical HLA class I molecules, is restricted-expression at extravillous trophoblast. It can concordantly interact with various kinds of receptors mounted on maternally immune cells residing in the uterus (e.g. CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, natural killer cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells) for maintaining immune homeostasis of the maternal-fetus interface. HLA-G is widely regarded as the pivotal protective factor for successful pregnancies. In the past 20 years, researches associated with HLA-G have been continually published. Indeed, HLA-G plays a mysterious role in the mechanism of maternal-fetal immune-tolerance. It can also be ectopically expressed on tumor cells, infected sites and other pathologic microenvironments to confer a significant local tolerance. Understanding the characteristics of HLA-G in immunologic tolerance is not only beneficial for pathological pregnancy, but also helpful to the therapy of other immune-related diseases, such as organ transplant rejection, tumor migration, and autoimmune disease. In this review, we describe the biological properties of HLA-G, then summarize our understanding of the mechanisms of fetomaternal immunologic tolerance and the difference from transplant tolerance. Furthermore, we will discuss how HLA-G contributes to the tolerogenic microenvironment during pregnancy. Finally, we hope to find some new aspects of HLA-G in fundamental research or clinical application for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baimei Zhuang
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jin Shang
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Medical Centre, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
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11
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Manzo G. Specific and Aspecific Molecular Checkpoints as Potential Targets for Dismantling Tumor Hierarchy and Preventing Relapse and Metastasis Through Shielded Cytolytic Treatments. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:665321. [PMID: 34295890 PMCID: PMC8291084 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.665321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
I have recently theorized that several similarities exist between the tumor process and embryo development. Starting from an initial cancer stem cell (CSC0), similar to an embryonic stem cell (ESC), after implantation in a niche, primary self-renewing CSCs (CSC1s) would arise, which then generate secondary proliferating CSCs (CSC2s). From these epithelial CSCs, tertiary mesenchymal CSCs (CSC3s) would arise, which, under favorable stereotrophic conditions, by asymmetric proliferation, would generate cancer progenitor cells (CPCs) and then cancer differentiated cells (CDCs), thus giving a defined cell heterogeneity and hierarchy. CSC1s-CSC2s-CSC3s-CPCs-CDCs would constitute a defined "tumor growth module," able to generate new tumor modules, forming a spherical avascular mass, similar to a tumor sphere. Further growth in situ of this initial tumor would require implantation in the host and vascularization through the overexpression of some aspecific checkpoint molecules, such as CD44, ID, LIF, HSP70, and HLA-G. To expand and spread in the host tissues, this vascularized tumor would then carry on a real growth strategy based on other specific checkpoint factors, such as those contained in the extracellular vesicles (EVs), namely, microRNAs, messenger RNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and integrins. These EV components would be crucial in tumor progression because they can mediate intercellular communications in the surrounding microenvironment and systemically, dictating to recipient cells a new tumor-enslaved phenotype, thus determining pre-metastatic conditions. Moreover, by their induction properties, the EV contents could also frustrate in time the effects of cytolytic tumor therapies, where EVs released by killed CSCs might enter other cancer and non-cancer cells, thus giving chemoresistance, non-CSC/CSC transition (recurrence), and metastasis. Thus, antitumor cytotoxic treatments, "shielded" from the EV-specific checkpoints by suitable adjuvant agents, simultaneously targeting the aforesaid aspecific checkpoints should be necessary for dismantling the hierarchic tumor structure, avoiding recurrence and preventing metastasis.
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12
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Lin A, Yan WH. HLA-G/ILTs Targeted Solid Cancer Immunotherapy: Opportunities and Challenges. Front Immunol 2021; 12:698677. [PMID: 34276691 PMCID: PMC8278316 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.698677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a promising immunotherapy for cancers. Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G), a neoantigen, its biological functions and clinical relevance have been extensively investigated in malignancies, and early clinical trials with “anti-HLA-G strategy” are being launched for advance solid cancer immunotherapy. The mechanism of HLA-G as a new ICI is that HLA-G can bind immune cell bearing inhibitory receptors, the immunoglobulin-like transcript (ILT)-2 and ILT-4. HLA-G/ILT-2/-4 (HLA-G/ILTs) signaling can drive comprehensive immune suppression, promote tumor growth and disease progression. Though clinical benefits could be expected with application of HLA-G antibodies to blockade the HLA-G/ILTs signaling in solid cancer immunotherapy, major challenges with the diversity of HLA-G isoforms, HLA-G/ILTs binding specificity, intra- and inter-tumor heterogeneity of HLA-G, lack of isoform-specific antibodies and validated assay protocols, which could dramatically affect the clinical efficacy. Clinical benefits of HLA-G-targeted solid cancer immunotherapy may be fluctuated or even premature unless major challenges are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifen Lin
- Biological Resource Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China.,Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China.,Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
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13
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Li X, Sheng Z, Sun Y, Wang Y, Xu M, Zhang Z, Li H, Shao L, Zhang Y, Yu J, Ma C, Gao C, Hou M, Ni H, Peng J, Ma J, Feng Q. Human leukocyte antigen-G upregulates immunoglobulin-like transcripts and corrects dysfunction of immune cells in immune thrombocytopenia. Haematologica 2021; 106:770-781. [PMID: 32079695 PMCID: PMC7927897 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2018.204040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is a non-classical major histocompatibility complex class I antigen with potent immune-inhibitory function. HLA-G benefit patients in allotransplantation and autoimmune diseases by interacting with its receptors, immunoglobulinlike transcripts. Here we observed significantly less HLA-G in plasma from immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) patients positive for anti-platelet autoantibodies compared with autoantibodies-negative patients or healthy controls, while we found that HLA-G is positively correlated with platelet counts in both patients and healthy controls. We also found less membranebound HLA-G and immunoglobulin-like transcripts on CD4+ and CD14+ cells in patients. Recombinant HLA-G upregulated immunoglobulin-like transcript 2 expression on CD4+ and immunoglobulin-like transcript 4 on CD14+ cells. HLA-G upregulated IL-4 and IL-10, and downregulated tumor necrosis factor-a, IL-12 and IL-17 secreted by patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells, suggesting a stimulation of Th2 differentiation and downregulation of Th1 and Th17 immune response. HLA-G-modulated dendritic cells from ITP patients showed decreased expression of CD80 and CD86, and suppressed CD4+ T-cell proliferation compared to unmodulated cells. Moreover, HLA-G-modulated cells from patients induced less platelet apoptosis. HLA-G administration also significantly alleviated thrombocytopenia in a murine model of ITP. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that impaired expression of HLA-G and immunoglobulin-like transcripts is involved in the pathogenesis of ITP; recombinant HLA-G can correct this abnormality via upregulation of immunoglobulin-like transcripts, indicating that HLA-G can be a diagnostic marker and a therapeutic option for ITP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zi Sheng
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuanxin Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shandong Provincial Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Shandong Cancer Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuanjian Wang
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Miao Xu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiyue Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Linlin Shao
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yanqi Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shandong Provincial Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Shandong Cancer Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jinming Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Chunhong Ma
- Department of Immunology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chengjiang Gao
- Department of Immunology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Ming Hou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shandong Provincial Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Shandong Cancer Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Heyu Ni
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Toronto Platelet Immunobiology Group, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Canadian Blood Services Center for Innovation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jun Peng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shandong Provincial Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Shandong Cancer Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ji Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China,Department of Medical Oncology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qi Feng
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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14
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Wuerfel FM, Huebner H, Häberle L, Gass P, Hein A, Jud SM, Hack CC, Wunderle M, Schulz-Wendtland R, Erber R, Hartmann A, Ekici AB, Beckmann MW, Fasching PA, Ruebner M. HLA-G and HLA-F protein isoform expression in breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant treatment. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15750. [PMID: 32978482 PMCID: PMC7519664 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72837-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The immunosuppressive human leukocyte antigens HLA-G and HLA-F are expressed on trophoblast and malignant cells. Four membrane-bound and three soluble HLA-G protein isoforms have been described, which have different immunosuppressive potentials. HLA-F has three transcript variants, resulting in three different protein isoforms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic and predictive value of HLA-G and HLA-F protein isoform expression patterns in patients with breast cancer. Core biopsies were taken at diagnosis in patients with HER2+ (n = 28), luminal B-like (n = 49) and triple-negative (n = 38) breast cancers who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Expression levels of HLA-F and -G were correlated with the pathological complete response (pCR). Protein expression was determined by Western blot analysis, using two antibodies for each HLA, specific for different isoforms. The protein expression of HLA isoforms did not significantly differ between breast cancer subtypes. However, some initial indications were found for an association between the soluble HLA-G6 protein isoform and pCR in HER2+ breast cancer. The study provides preliminary evidence for the evaluation of HLA-G isoform expression, in particular HLA-G6, as a possible new marker for pCR in HER2+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska M Wuerfel
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hanna Huebner
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lothar Häberle
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Paul Gass
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexander Hein
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian M Jud
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Carolin C Hack
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marius Wunderle
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Schulz-Wendtland
- Institute of Diagnostic Radiology, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ramona Erber
- Institute of Pathology, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arif B Ekici
- Institute of Human Genetics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter A Fasching
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias Ruebner
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), Universitätsstrasse 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
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15
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Shi L, Li W, Liu Y, Chen Z, Hui Y, Hao P, Xu X, Zhang S, Feng H, Zhang B, Zhou S, Li N, Xiao L, Liu L, Ma L, Zhang X. Generation of hypoimmunogenic human pluripotent stem cells via expression of membrane-bound and secreted β2m-HLA-G fusion proteins. Stem Cells 2020; 38:1423-1437. [PMID: 32930470 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Allogeneic immune rejection is a major barrier for the application of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) in regenerative medicine. A broad spectrum of immune cells, including T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and antigen-presenting cells, which either cause direct cell killing or constitute an immunogenic environment, are involved in allograft immune rejection. A strategy to protect donor cells from cytotoxicity while decreasing the secretion of inflammatory cytokines of lymphocytes is still lacking. Here, we engineered hPSCs with no surface expression of classical human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I proteins via beta-2 microglobulin (B2M) knockout or biallelic knockin of HLA-G1 within the frame of endogenous B2M loci. Elimination of the surface expression of HLA class I proteins protected the engineered hPSCs from cytotoxicity mediated by T cells. However, this lack of surface expression also resulted in missing-self response and NK cell activation, which were largely compromised by expression of β2m-HLA-G1 fusion proteins. We also proved that the engineered β2m-HLA-G5 fusion proteins were soluble, secretable, and capable of safeguarding low immunogenic environments by lowering inflammatory cytokines secretion in allografts. Our current study reveals a novel strategy that may offer unique advantages to construct hypoimmunogenic hPSCs via the expression of membrane-bound and secreted β2m-HLA-G fusion proteins. These engineered hPSCs are expected to serve as an unlimited cell source for generating universally compatible "off-the-shelf" cell grafts in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Shi
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjing Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenyu Chen
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Hui
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengcheng Hao
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangjie Xu
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuwei Zhang
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hexi Feng
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Bowen Zhang
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanshan Zhou
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Li
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Xiao
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai SiDanSai Biotechnology Limited Company, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Liu
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Ma
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhang
- Brain and Spinal Cord Clinical Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Shanghai Universities, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Reconstruction and Regeneration of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Tsingtao Advanced Research Institute, Tongji University, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
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16
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Schwich E, Hò GGT, LeMaoult J, Bade-Döding C, Carosella ED, Horn PA, Rebmann V. Soluble HLA-G and HLA-G Bearing Extracellular Vesicles Affect ILT-2 Positive and ILT-2 Negative CD8 T Cells Complementary. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2046. [PMID: 32973812 PMCID: PMC7472666 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor immune escape is associated with both, the expression of immune checkpoint molecules on peripheral immune cells and soluble forms of the human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) in the blood, which are consequently discussed as clinical biomarker for disease status and outcome of cancer patients. HLA-G preferentially interacts with the inhibitory receptor immunoglobulin-like transcript (ILT) receptor-2 in the blood and can be secreted as free soluble molecules (sHLA-G) or via extracellular vesicles (EV). To investigate the contribution of these two forms to the expression of checkpoint molecules in peripheral blood, we primed peripheral blood mononuclear cells with purified soluble sHLA-G1 protein, or EV preparations derived from SUM149 cells transfected with membrane-bound HLA-G1 or control vector prior to anti-CD3/CD28 T cell activation. Our study demonstrated that priming of PBMC with sHLA-G1 protein prior to 48 h activation resulted in enhanced frequencies of ILT-2 expressing CD8+ T cells, and in an upregulation of immune checkpoint molecules CTLA-4, PD-1, TIM-3, and CD95 exclusively on ILT-2 positive CD8+ T cells. In contrast, when PBMC were primed with EV (containing HLA-G1 or not) upregulation of CTLA-4, PD-1, TIM-3, and CD95 occurred exclusively on ILT-2 negative CD8+ T cells. Taken together, our data suggest that priming with sHLA-G forms induces a pronounced immunosuppressive/exhausted phenotype and that priming with sHLA-G1 protein or EV derived from HLA-G1 positive or negative SUM149 cells affects CD8+ T cells complementary by targeting either the ILT-2 positive or negative subpopulation, respectively, after T cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Schwich
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Gia-Gia T Hò
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Joel LeMaoult
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Direction de La Recherche Fondamentale (DRF), Service de Recherche en Hémato-Immunologie (SRHI), Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France.,Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Edgardo D Carosella
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Direction de La Recherche Fondamentale (DRF), Service de Recherche en Hémato-Immunologie (SRHI), Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France.,Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de paris, Paris, France
| | - Peter A Horn
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Vera Rebmann
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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17
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Xu HH, Yan WH, Lin A. The Role of HLA-G in Human Papillomavirus Infections and Cervical Carcinogenesis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1349. [PMID: 32670296 PMCID: PMC7330167 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G, a non-classical HLA-class I molecule, has a low polymorphism frequency, restricted tissue distribution and immunoinhibitory property. HLA-G expression in tumor cells and cells chronically infected with virus may enable them to escape from host immune surveillance. It is well-known that the HLA-G molecule is a novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target that is relevant in various types of cancers, but its role in cervical cancer has not been fully explored. In this review, we aim to summarize and discuss the immunologic role of the HLA-G molecule in the context of HPV infections and the process of cervical cancer carcinogenesis. A better understanding of the potential impact of HLA-G on the clinical course of persistent HPV infections, cervical epithelial cell transformation, tumor growth, recurrence and metastasis is needed to identify a novel diagnostic/prognostic biomarker for cervical cancer, which is critical for cervical cancer risk screening. In addition, it is also necessary to identify HLA-G-driven immune mechanisms involved in the interactions between host and virus to explore novel immunotherapy strategies that target HLA-G/immunoglobulin-like transcript (ILT) immune checkpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Xu
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Aifen Lin
- Biological Resource Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
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18
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Persson G, Bork JBS, Isgaard C, Larsen TG, Bordoy AM, Bengtsson MS, Hviid TVF. Cytokine stimulation of the choriocarcinoma cell line JEG-3 leads to alterations in the HLA-G expression profile. Cell Immunol 2020; 352:104110. [PMID: 32387976 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2020.104110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The checkpoint molecule human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G has restricted tissue expression, and plays a role in the establishment of maternal tolerance to the semi-allogenic fetus during pregnancy by expression on the trophoblast cells in the placenta. HLA-G exists in at least seven well-described mRNA isoforms, of which four are membrane-bound and three soluble. Regulation of the tissue expression of HLA-G and its isoforms is relatively unknown. Therefore, it is important to understand the regulation of HLA-G, and the HLA-G+ choriocarcinoma cell line JEG-3 is a widely used cellular model. We hypothesized that cytokines present in the microenvironment can regulate the HLA-G expression profile. In the present study, we systematically stimulated JEG-3 cells with various concentrations of IL-2, IL-4 IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-15, IL-17A, TGF-β1, TNF-α and IFN-γ1b. The results suggest that IFN-γ plays a role in maintenance of HLA-G expression, while IL-10 might be involved in regulation of the isoform profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gry Persson
- Center for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Consortium ZUH, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Zealand University Hospital, and the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julie Birgit Siig Bork
- Center for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Consortium ZUH, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Zealand University Hospital, and the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cecilie Isgaard
- Center for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Consortium ZUH, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Zealand University Hospital, and the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tine Graakjær Larsen
- Center for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Consortium ZUH, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Zealand University Hospital, and the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Maria Bordoy
- Center for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Consortium ZUH, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Zealand University Hospital, and the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Meghan Sand Bengtsson
- Center for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Consortium ZUH, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Zealand University Hospital, and the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Vauvert Faurschou Hviid
- Center for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Consortium ZUH, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Zealand University Hospital, and the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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19
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Schallmoser A, Raab M, Karn T, Königsberger S, Schmidt E, Breitenbach-Koller H, Sänger N. Quantitative analysis of the sHLA-G protein in seminal plasma. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 82:e13152. [PMID: 31132194 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies revealed that maternal and embryonic contributions impact on HLA-G protein expression and might contribute to pregnancy success or failure. The main objective of this study was to examine the paternal levels of the immunoregulatory soluble human leukocyte antigen-G (sHLA-G) protein in seminal plasma and testicular biopsy samples during artificial reproductive technique (ART) treatment and to investigate possible correlations with other semen parameters, age, and pregnancy outcome of the female partner. METHODS Soluble HLA-G levels of 106 seminal plasma samples and eight testicular biopsy samples were determined using a commercial sHLA-G Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. RESULTS We observed a significant negative correlation of male age with total sHLA-G amount (P 0.023, R -0.221) and semen volume (P = 0.047, R -0.193). Testicular biopsy samples were analyzed and tested positively with sHLA-G ELISA. Levels of sHLA-G in seminal plasma samples from men with normozoospermia did not deviate significantly from those with reduced semen quality. No significant difference of sHLA-G levels in seminal plasma and pregnancy outcome of the female partner was detected. Our data showed that age of men with normozoospermia was significantly lower when the female partner conceived after ART treatment (P = 0.016, Mann-Whitney U test). CONCLUSION High sHLA-G levels in seminal plasma of the male partner appear not to be required for pregnancy but might contribute among other factors to the success of establishing and maintaining pregnancy through long-term priming of the female uterine milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Schallmoser
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Monika Raab
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Karn
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Nicole Sänger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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20
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Würfel FM, Winterhalter C, Trenkwalder P, Wirtz RM, Würfel W. European Patent in Immunoncology: From Immunological Principles of Implantation to Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20081830. [PMID: 31013867 PMCID: PMC6514949 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The granted European patent EP 2 561 890 describes a procedure for an immunological treatment of cancer. It is based on the principles of the HLA-supported communication of implantation and pregnancy. These principles ensure that the embryo is not rejected by the mother. In pregnancy, the placenta, more specifically the trophoblast, creates an “interface” between the embryo/fetus and the maternal immune system. Trophoblasts do not express the “original” HLA identification of the embryo/fetus (HLA-A to -DQ), but instead show the non-classical HLA groups E, F, and G. During interaction with specific receptors of NK cells (e.g., killer-immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR)) and lymphocytes (lymphocyte-immunoglobulin-like receptors (LIL-R)), the non-classical HLA groups inhibit these immunocompetent cells outside pregnancy. However, tumors are known to be able to express these non-classical HLA groups and thus make use of an immuno-communication as in pregnancies. If this occurs, the prognosis usually worsens. This patent describes, in a first step, the profiling of the non-classical HLA groups in primary tumor tissue as well as metastases and recurrent tumors. The second step comprises tailored antibody therapies, which is the subject of this patent. In this review, we analyze the underlying mechanisms and describe the currently known differences between HLA-supported communication of implantation and that of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska M Würfel
- STRATIFYER Molecular Pathology GmbH, D-50935 Cologne, Werthmannstrasse 1c, 50935 Cologne, Germany.
| | | | | | - Ralph M Wirtz
- STRATIFYER Molecular Pathology GmbH, D-50935 Cologne, Werthmannstrasse 1c, 50935 Cologne, Germany.
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Manzo G. Similarities Between Embryo Development and Cancer Process Suggest New Strategies for Research and Therapy of Tumors: A New Point of View. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:20. [PMID: 30899759 PMCID: PMC6416183 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, I propose that cancer stem cells (CSCs) would be equivalent to para-embryonic stem cells (p-ESCs), derived from adult cells de-re-programmed to a ground state. p-ESCs would differ from ESCs by the absence of genomic homeostasis. A p-ESC would constitute the cancer cell of origin (i-CSC or CSC0), capable of generating an initial tumor, corresponding to a pre-implantation blastocyst. In a niche with proper signals, it would engraft as a primary tumor, corresponding to a post-implantation blastocyst. i-CSC progeny would form primary pluripotent and slow self-renewing CSCs (CSC1s), blocked in an undifferentiated state, corresponding to epiblast cells; CSC1s would be tumor-initiating cells (TICs). CSC1s would generate secondary CSCs (CSC2s), corresponding to hypoblast cells; CSC2s would be tumor growth cells (TGCs). CSC1s/CSC2s would generate tertiary CSCs (CSC3s), with a mesenchymal phenotype; CSC3s would be tumor migrating cells (TMCs), corresponding to mesodermal precursors at primitive streak. CSC3s with more favorable conditions (normoxia), by asymmetrical division, would differentiate into cancer progenitor cells (CPCs), and these into cancer differentiated cells (CDCs), thus generating a defined cell hierarchy and tumor progression, mimicking somito-histo-organogenesis. CSC3s with less favorable conditions (hypoxia) would delaminate and migrate as quiescent circulating micro-metastases, mimicking mesenchymal cells in gastrula morphogenetic movements. In metastatic niches, these CSC3s would install and remain dormant in the presence of epithelial/mesenchymal transition (EMT) signals and hypoxia. But, in the presence of mesenchymal/epithelial transition (MET) signals and normoxia, they would revert to self-renewing CSC1s, reproducing the same cell hierarchy of the primary tumor as macro-metastases. Further similarities between ontogenesis and oncogenesis involving crucial factors, such as ID, HSP70, HLA-G, CD44, LIF, and STAT3, are strongly evident at molecular, physiological and immunological levels. Much experimental data about these factors led to considering the cancer process as ectopic rudimentary ontogenesis, where CSCs have privileged immunological conditions. These would consent to CSC development in an adverse environment, just like an embryo, which is tolerated, accepted and favored by the maternal organism in spite of its paternal semi-allogeneicity. From all these considerations, novel research directions, potential innovative tumor therapy and prophylaxis strategies might, theoretically, result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Manzo
- General Pathology, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, Retired, Botrugno, Italy
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Lin A, Yan WH. Heterogeneity of HLA-G Expression in Cancers: Facing the Challenges. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2164. [PMID: 30319626 PMCID: PMC6170620 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic heterogeneity has been observed in most malignancies, which represents a considerable challenge for tumor therapy. In recent decades, the biological function and clinical significance of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G have been intensively explored. It is now widely accepted that HLA-G is a critical marker of immunotolerance in cancer cell immune evasion and is strongly associated with disease progress and prognosis for cancer patients. Moreover, it has recently been emphasized that the signaling pathway linking HLA-G and immunoglobulin-like transcripts (ILTs) is considered an immune checkpoint. In addition, HLA-G itself can generate at least seven distinct isoforms, and intertumor and intratumor heterogeneity of HLA-G expression is common across different tumor types. Furthermore, HLA-G heterogeneity in cancers has been related to disease stage and outcomes, metastatic status and response to different therapies. This review focuses on the heterogeneity of HLA-G expression in malignant lesions, and clinical implications of this heterogeneity that might be relevant to personalized treatments are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifen Lin
- Biological Resource Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
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Persson G, Melsted WN, Nilsson LL, Hviid TVF. HLA class Ib in pregnancy and pregnancy-related disorders. Immunogenetics 2017; 69:581-595. [PMID: 28699111 DOI: 10.1007/s00251-017-0988-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The HLA class Ib genes, HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, were discovered long after the classical HLA class Ia genes. The elucidation of their functions had a modest beginning. However, their basic functions and involvement in pathophysiology and a range of diseases are now emerging. Although results from a range of studies support the functional roles for the HLA class Ib molecules in adult life, especially HLA-G and HLA-F have most intensively been, and were also primarily, studied in relation to reproduction and pregnancy. The expression of HLA class Ib proteins at the feto-maternal interface in the placenta seems to be important for the maternal acceptance of the semi-allogenic fetus. In contrast to the functions of HLA class Ia, HLA-G possesses immune-modulatory and tolerogenic functions. Here, we review an accumulating amount of data describing the functions of HLA class Ib molecules in relation to fertility, reproduction, and pregnancy, and a possible role for these molecules in certain pregnancy complications, such as implantation failure, recurrent spontaneous abortions, and pre-eclampsia. The results from different kinds of studies point toward a role for HLA class Ib, especially HLA-G, throughout the reproductive cycle from conception to the birth weight of the child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gry Persson
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, 10 Sygehusvej, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Wenna Nascimento Melsted
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, 10 Sygehusvej, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Line Lynge Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, 10 Sygehusvej, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Vauvert F Hviid
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, 10 Sygehusvej, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Expression and differential regulation of HLA-G isoforms in the retinal pigment epithelial cell line, ARPE-19. Hum Immunol 2017; 78:414-420. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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25
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Grange C, Camussi G. Immunosuppressive role of extracellular vesicles: HLA-G, an important player. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2017; 5:223. [PMID: 28603738 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2017.03.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Grange
- Department of Medical Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Giovanni Camussi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Amodio G, Gregori S. The discovery of HLA-G-bearing extracellular vesicles: new perspectives in HLA-G biology. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2017; 5:148. [PMID: 28462228 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2017.01.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giada Amodio
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Gregori
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Division of Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells and Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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