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Lee J, Park N, Nicosia M, Park JY, Pruett SB, Seo KS. Stimulation Strength Determined by Superantigen Dose Controls Subcellular Localization of FOXP3 Isoforms and Suppressive Function of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T Cells. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:421-432. [PMID: 38108423 PMCID: PMC10784726 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcal superantigens induce massive activation of T cells and inflammation, leading to toxic shock syndrome. Paradoxically, increasing evidence indicates that superantigens can also induce immunosuppression by promoting regulatory T cell (Treg) development. In this study, we demonstrate that stimulation strength plays a critical role in superantigen-mediated induction of immunosuppressive human CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T cells. Suboptimal stimulation by a low dose (1 ng/ml) of staphylococcal enterotoxin C1 (SEC1) led to de novo generation of Treg-like CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T cells with strong suppressive activity. In contrast, CD4+CD25+ T cells induced by optimal stimulation with high-dose SEC1 (1 µg/ml) were not immunosuppressive, despite high FOXP3 expression. Signal transduction pathway analysis revealed differential activation of the PI3K signaling pathway and expression of PTEN in optimal and suboptimal stimulation with SEC1. Additionally, we identified that FOXP3 isoforms in Treg-like cells from the suboptimal condition were located in the nucleus, whereas FOXP3 in nonsuppressive cells from the optimal condition localized in cytoplasm. Sequencing analysis of FOXP3 isoform transcripts identified five isoforms, including a FOXP3 isoform lacking partial exon 3. Overexpression of FOXP3 isoforms confirmed that both an exon 2-lacking isoform and a partial exon 3-lacking isoform confer suppressive activity. Furthermore, blockade of PI3K in optimal stimulation conditions led to induction of suppressive Treg-like cells with nuclear translocation of FOXP3, suggesting that PI3K signaling impairs induction of Tregs in a SEC1 dose-dependent manner. Taken together, these data demonstrate that the strength of activation signals determined by superantigen dose regulates subcellular localization of FOXP3 isoforms, which confers suppressive functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juyeun Lee
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS
| | - Nogi Park
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS
| | - Michael Nicosia
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Joo Youn Park
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS
| | - Stephen B. Pruett
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS
| | - Keun Seok Seo
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS
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Wang L, Li S, Fan H, Han M, Xie J, Du J, Peng F. Bifidobacterium lactis combined with Lactobacillus plantarum inhibit glioma growth in mice through modulating PI3K/AKT pathway and gut microbiota. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:986837. [PMID: 36147842 PMCID: PMC9486703 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.986837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma is a common primary aggressive tumor with limited clinical treatment. Recently, growing research suggests that gut microbiota is involved in tumor progression, and several probiotics can inhibit tumor growth. However, evidence for the effect of probiotics on glioma is lacking. Here, we found that Bifidobacterium (B.) lactis combined with Lactobacillus (L.) plantarum reduced tumor volume, prolonged survival time and repaired the intestinal barrier damage in an orthotopic mouse model of glioma. Experiments demonstrated that B. lactis combined with L. plantarum suppressed the PI3K/AKT pathway and down-regulated the expression of Ki-67 and N-cadherin. The glioma-inhibitory effect of probiotic combination is also related to the modulation of gut microbiota composition, which is characterized by an increase in relative abundance of Lactobacillus and a decrease in some potential pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, probiotic combination altered fecal metabolites represented by fatty acyls and organic oxygen compounds. Together, our results prove that B. lactis combined with L. plantarum can inhibit glioma growth by suppressing PI3K/AKT pathway and regulating gut microbiota composition and metabolites in mice, thus suggesting the potential benefits of B. lactis and L. plantarum against glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sui Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huali Fan
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingyu Han
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Xie
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Junrong Du
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Junrong Du,
| | - Fu Peng
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Fu Peng,
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Kiss A, Ryan PM, Mondal T. Management of COVID-19-associated multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children: A comprehensive literature review. PROGRESS IN PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY 2021; 63:101381. [PMID: 33850412 PMCID: PMC8032479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ppedcard.2021.101381] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background The prevalence and severity of COVID-19 are greatly reduced in children, yet some pediatric patients develop a syndrome resembling Kawasaki Disease (KD), termed Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). With an estimated incidence of 2/100,000 children, MIS-C is relatively rare but can be fatal. Clinical features can include fever, hyperinflammatory state, gastrointestinal symptoms, myocardial dysfunction, and shock. The pathogenesis of MIS-C, although yet to be completely elucidated, appears to be distinct from KD in terms of epidemiology, severity, and biochemical signature. Aim of Review Although efficacy of treatments for MIS-C have largely not yet been investigated, we aim to conduct a comprehensive literature search of numerous medical databases (AMED, EBM Reviews, Embase, Healthstar, MEDLINE, ERIC, and Cochrane) to highlight treatments used around the world, their rationale, and outcomes to better inform guidelines in the future. Using the findings, an approach to MIS-C management will be outlined. Key Scientific Concepts of Review MIS-C appears to be a SARS-CoV-2 related post-infection phenomenon that is distinct from Kawasaki disease. Although outcomes are largely favorable, there is significant variation in MIS-C treatment. Most management regimens reported to date mirror that of KD; however, targeted therapy based on specific MIS-C phenotypes may have the potential to improve outcomes. We recommend close monitoring by a multidisciplinary team, symptomatic treatment (e.g., intravenous immunoglobulin for KD-like symptoms, steroids/immunotherapy for multisystem inflammation), and long-term follow-up. Further research is required to evaluate the effectiveness of current MIS-C treatments and to determine more refined therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Kiss
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Paul MacDaragh Ryan
- Brookfield School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Tapas Mondal
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Superantigenic character of an insert unique to SARS-CoV-2 spike supported by skewed TCR repertoire in patients with hyperinflammation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:25254-25262. [PMID: 32989130 PMCID: PMC7568239 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2010722117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19 is a newly recognized condition in children with recent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. These children and adult patients with severe hyperinflammation present with a constellation of symptoms that strongly resemble toxic shock syndrome, an escalation of the cytotoxic adaptive immune response triggered upon the binding of pathogenic superantigens to T cell receptors (TCRs) and/or major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII) molecules. Here, using structure-based computational models, we demonstrate that the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) glycoprotein exhibits a high-affinity motif for binding TCRs, and may form a ternary complex with MHCII. The binding epitope on S harbors a sequence motif unique to SARS-CoV-2 (not present in other SARS-related coronaviruses), which is highly similar in both sequence and structure to the bacterial superantigen staphylococcal enterotoxin B. This interaction between the virus and human T cells could be strengthened by a rare mutation (D839Y/N/E) from a European strain of SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, the interfacial region includes selected residues from an intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-like motif shared between the SARS viruses from the 2003 and 2019 pandemics. A neurotoxin-like sequence motif on the receptor-binding domain also exhibits a high tendency to bind TCRs. Analysis of the TCR repertoire in adult COVID-19 patients demonstrates that those with severe hyperinflammatory disease exhibit TCR skewing consistent with superantigen activation. These data suggest that SARS-CoV-2 S may act as a superantigen to trigger the development of MIS-C as well as cytokine storm in adult COVID-19 patients, with important implications for the development of therapeutic approaches.
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Elsanhoury A, Tschöpe C, Van Linthout S. A Toolbox of Potential Immune-Related Therapies for Inflammatory Cardiomyopathy. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2020; 14:75-87. [PMID: 32440911 PMCID: PMC7892499 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-020-10025-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Myocarditis is a multifactorial disorder, characterized by an inflammatory reaction in the myocardium, predominantly triggered by infectious agents, but also by antigen mimicry or autoimmunity in susceptible individuals. Unless spontaneously resolved, a chronic inflammatory course concludes with cardiac muscle dysfunction portrayed by ventricular dilatation, clinically termed inflammatory cardiomyopathy (Infl-CM). Treatment strategies aim to resolve chronic inflammation and preserve cardiac function. Beside standard heart failure treatments, which only play a supportive role in this condition, systemic immunosuppressants are used to diminish inflammatory cell function at the cost of noxious side effects. To date, the treatment protocols are expert-based without large clinical evidence. This review describes concept and contemporary strategies to alleviate myocardial inflammation and sheds light on potential inflammatory targets in an evidence-based order.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Elsanhoury
- Berlin Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum (CVK), Föhrerstrasse 15, 13353, Berlin, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Tschöpe
- Berlin Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum (CVK), Föhrerstrasse 15, 13353, Berlin, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum (CVK), Berlin, Germany
| | - Sophie Van Linthout
- Berlin Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum (CVK), Föhrerstrasse 15, 13353, Berlin, Germany. .,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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6
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Cheng MH, Zhang S, Porritt RA, Arditi M, Bahar I. An insertion unique to SARS-CoV-2 exhibits superantigenic character strengthened by recent mutations. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2020:2020.05.21.109272. [PMID: 32511374 PMCID: PMC7263503 DOI: 10.1101/2020.05.21.109272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) associated with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a newly recognized condition in which children with recent SARS-CoV-2 infection present with a constellation of symptoms including hypotension, multiorgan involvement, and elevated inflammatory markers. These symptoms and the associated laboratory values strongly resemble toxic shock syndrome, an escalation of the cytotoxic adaptive immune response triggered upon the binding of pathogenic superantigens to MHCII molecules and T cell receptors (TCRs). Here, we used structure-based computational models to demonstrate that the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) exhibits a high-affinity motif for binding TCR, interacting closely with both the α- and β-chains variable domains' complementarity-determining regions. The binding epitope on S harbors a sequence motif unique to SARS-CoV-2 (not present in any other SARS coronavirus), which is highly similar in both sequence and structure to bacterial superantigens. Further examination revealed that this interaction between the virus and human T cells is strengthened in the context of a recently reported rare mutation (D839Y/N/E) from a European strain of SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, the interfacial region includes selected residues from a motif shared between the SARS viruses from the 2003 and 2019 pandemics, which has intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-like character. These data suggest that the SARS-CoV-2 S may act as a superantigen to drive the development of MIS-C as well as cytokine storm in adult COVID-19 patients, with important implications for the development of therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Hongying Cheng
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
| | - She Zhang
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
| | - Rebecca A. Porritt
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Infectious and Immunologic Diseases Research Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
| | - Moshe Arditi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Infectious and Immunologic Diseases Research Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
| | - Ivet Bahar
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261
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7
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Kong J, Wu K, Ji Y, Chen K, Zhang J, Sun H, Liang Y, Liang W, Chang Y, Cheng J, Tong J, Li J, Xing G, Chen G. Enhanced Bioavailability by Orally Administered Sirolimus Nanocrystals. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2019; 2:4612-4621. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.9b00695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jianglong Kong
- College of Food Science, ShiHezi University, ShiHezi 832000, China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kai Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Organic−Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Ying Ji
- The University of California’s Center for Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Kui Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Hui Sun
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuelan Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wei Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yanan Chang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jenny Cheng
- The University of California’s Center for Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Junmao Tong
- College of Food Science, ShiHezi University, ShiHezi 832000, China
| | - Juan Li
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Gengmei Xing
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterial & Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guogang Chen
- College of Food Science, ShiHezi University, ShiHezi 832000, China
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8
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Staphylococcal Superantigens: Pyrogenic Toxins Induce Toxic Shock. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11030178. [PMID: 30909619 PMCID: PMC6468478 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11030178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) and related superantigenic toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus are potent activators of the immune system. These protein toxins bind to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules and specific Vβ regions of T-cell receptors (TCRs), resulting in the activation of both monocytes/macrophages and T lymphocytes. The bridging of TCRs with MHC class II molecules by superantigens triggers an early “cytokine storm” and massive polyclonal T-cell proliferation. Proinflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1 (IL-1), IL-2, interferon γ (IFNγ), and macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 elicit fever, inflammation, multiple organ injury, hypotension, and lethal shock. Upon MHC/TCR ligation, superantigens induce signaling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades and cytokine receptor signaling, which results in NFκB activation and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin pathways. In addition, gene profiling studies have revealed the essential roles of innate antimicrobial defense genes in the pathogenesis of SEB. The genes expressed in a murine model of SEB-induced shock include intracellular DNA/RNA sensors, apoptosis/DNA damage-related molecules, endoplasmic reticulum/mitochondrial stress responses, immunoproteasome components, and IFN-stimulated genes. This review focuses on the signaling pathways induced by superantigens that lead to the activation of inflammation and damage response genes. The induction of these damage response genes provides evidence that SEB induces danger signals in host cells, resulting in multiorgan injury and toxic shock. Therapeutics targeting both host inflammatory and cell death pathways can potentially mitigate the toxic effects of staphylococcal superantigens.
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Shir A, Klein S, Sagiv-Barfi I, Geiger T, Zigler M, Langut Y, Edinger N, Levitzki A. S101, an Inhibitor of Proliferating T Cells, Rescues Mice From Superantigen-Induced Shock. J Infect Dis 2018; 217:288-297. [PMID: 29149330 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jix576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Superantigens (SAgs) are extremely potent bacterial toxins, which evoke a virulent immune response, inducing nonspecific T-cell proliferation, rapid cytokine release, and lethal toxic shock, for which there is no effective treatment. We previously developed a small molecule, S101, which potently inhibits proliferating T cells. In a severe mouse model of toxic shock, a single injection of S101 given together with superantigen challenge rescued 100% of the mice. Even when given 2 hours after challenge, S101 rescued 40% of the mice. S101 targets the T-cell receptor, inflammatory response, and actin cytoskeleton pathways. S101 inhibits the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, a ligand-activated transcription factor that is involved in the differentiation of T-helper cells, especially Th17, and regulatory T cells. Our results provide the rationale for developing S101 to treat superantigen-induced toxic shock and other pathologies characterized by T-cell activation and proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Shir
- Unit of Cellular Signaling, Silberman Life Sciences Institute, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Israel
| | - Shoshana Klein
- Unit of Cellular Signaling, Silberman Life Sciences Institute, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Israel
| | - Idit Sagiv-Barfi
- Unit of Cellular Signaling, Silberman Life Sciences Institute, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Israel
| | - Tamar Geiger
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Maya Zigler
- Unit of Cellular Signaling, Silberman Life Sciences Institute, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Israel
| | - Yael Langut
- Unit of Cellular Signaling, Silberman Life Sciences Institute, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Israel
| | - Nufar Edinger
- Unit of Cellular Signaling, Silberman Life Sciences Institute, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Israel
| | - Alexander Levitzki
- Unit of Cellular Signaling, Silberman Life Sciences Institute, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Israel
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10
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Fu X, Xu M, Yao S, Zhang H, Zhang C, Zhang J. Staphylococcal enterotoxin C2 mutant drives T lymphocyte activation through PI3K/mTOR and NF-ĸB signaling pathways. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 333:51-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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11
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Weis S, Rubio I, Ludwig K, Weigel C, Jentho E. Hormesis and Defense of Infectious Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E1273. [PMID: 28617331 PMCID: PMC5486095 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18061273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases are a global health burden and remain associated with high social and economic impact. Treatment of affected patients largely relies on antimicrobial agents that act by directly targeting microbial replication. Despite the utility of host specific therapies having been assessed in previous clinical trials, such as targeting the immune response via modulating the cytokine release in sepsis, results have largely been frustrating and did not lead to the introduction of new therapeutic tools. In this article, we will discuss current evidence arguing that, by applying the concept of hormesis, already approved pharmacological agents could be used therapeutically to increase survival of patients with infectious disease via improving disease tolerance, a defense mechanism that decreases the extent of infection-associated tissue damage without directly targeting pathogenic microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Weis
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Jena, Jena 07747, Germany.
- Center for Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, University Hospital Jena, Jena 07747, Germany.
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, University Hospital Jena, Jena 07747, Germany.
| | - Ignacio Rubio
- Institute of Molecular Cell Biology, Center for Molecular Biomedicine (CMB), University Hospital Jena, Jena 07745, Germany.
| | - Kristin Ludwig
- Institute of Molecular Cell Biology, Center for Molecular Biomedicine (CMB), University Hospital Jena, Jena 07745, Germany.
| | - Cynthia Weigel
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Jena, Jena 07747, Germany.
- Fritz Lipmann Institute, Leibniz Institute on Aging, Jena 07745, Germany.
| | - Elisa Jentho
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Jena, Jena 07747, Germany.
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12
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Krakauer T. FDA-approved immunosuppressants targeting staphylococcal superantigens: mechanisms and insights. Immunotargets Ther 2017; 6:17-29. [PMID: 28497030 PMCID: PMC5423536 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s125429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunostimulating staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) and related superantigenic toxins cause diseases in human beings and laboratory animals by hyperactivating cells of the immune system. These protein toxins bind to the major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) molecules and specific Vβ regions of T-cell receptors (TCRs), resulting in the stimulation of both monocytes/macrophages and T lymphocytes. The bridging of TCR with MHC II molecules by superantigens triggers intracellular signaling cascades, resulting in excessive release of proinflammatory mediators and massive polyclonal T-cell proliferation. The early induction of tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1 (IL-1), interleukin 2 (IL-2), interferon gamma (IFNγ), and macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 promotes fever, inflammation, and multiple organ injury. The signal transduction pathways for staphylococcal superantigen-induced toxicity downstream from TCR/major histocompatibility complex (MHC) ligation and interaction of cell surface co-stimulatory molecules include the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades and cytokine receptor signaling, activating nuclear factor κB (NFκB) and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin pathways. Knowledge of host regulation within these activated pathways and molecules initiated by SEB and other superantigens enables the selection of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs to interrupt and prevent superantigen-induced shock in animal models. This review focuses on the use of FDA-approved immunosuppressants in targeting the signaling pathways induced by staphylococcal superantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Krakauer
- Department of Immunology, Molecular Translational Sciences Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, USA
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13
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Whitfield SJC, Taylor C, Risdall JE, Griffiths GD, Jones JTA, Williamson ED, Rijpkema S, Saraiva L, Vessillier S, Green AC, Carter AJ. Interference of the T Cell and Antigen-Presenting Cell Costimulatory Pathway Using CTLA4-Ig (Abatacept) Prevents Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B Pathology. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 198:3989-3998. [PMID: 28320831 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1601525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is a bacterial superantigen that binds the receptors in the APC/T cell synapse and causes increased proliferation of T cells and a cytokine storm syndrome in vivo. Exposure to the toxin can be lethal and cause significant pathology in humans. The lack of effective therapies for SEB exposure remains an area of concern, particularly in scenarios of acute mass casualties. We hypothesized that blockade of the T cell costimulatory signal by the CTLA4-Ig synthetic protein (abatacept) could prevent SEB-dependent pathology. In this article, we demonstrate mice treated with a single dose of abatacept 8 h post SEB exposure had reduced pathology compared with control SEB-exposed mice. SEB-exposed mice showed significant reductions in body weight between days 4 and 9, whereas mice exposed to SEB and also treated with abatacept showed no weight loss for the duration of the study, suggesting therapeutic mitigation of SEB-induced morbidity. Histopathology and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated that SEB mediated lung damage and edema, which were absent after treatment with abatacept. Analysis of plasma and lung tissues from SEB-exposed mice treated with abatacept demonstrated significantly lower levels of IL-6 and IFN-γ (p < 0.0001), which is likely to have resulted in less pathology. In addition, exposure of human and mouse PBMCs to SEB in vitro showed a significant reduction in levels of IL-2 (p < 0.0001) after treatment with abatacept, indicating that T cell proliferation is the main target for intervention. Our findings demonstrate that abatacept is a robust and potentially credible drug to prevent toxic effects from SEB exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J C Whitfield
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom;
| | - Chris Taylor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Jane E Risdall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom.,Division of Anaesthesia, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth D Griffiths
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - James T A Jones
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - E Diane Williamson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sjoerd Rijpkema
- Division of Bacteriology, National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar EN6 3QG, United Kingdom
| | - Luisa Saraiva
- Division of Biotherapeutics, National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar EN6 3QG, United Kingdom; and
| | - Sandrine Vessillier
- Division of Biotherapeutics, National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar EN6 3QG, United Kingdom; and
| | - A Christopher Green
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Alun J Carter
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom.,Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110
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Martin AR, Pollack RA, Capoferri A, Ambinder RF, Durand CM, Siliciano RF. Rapamycin-mediated mTOR inhibition uncouples HIV-1 latency reversal from cytokine-associated toxicity. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:651-656. [PMID: 28094770 DOI: 10.1172/jci89552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Current strategies for HIV-1 eradication require the reactivation of latent HIV-1 in resting CD4+ T cells (rCD4s). Global T cell activation is a well-characterized means of inducing HIV-1 transcription, but is considered too toxic for clinical applications. Here, we have explored a strategy that involves a combination of immune activation and the immunosuppressive mTOR inhibitor rapamycin. In purified rCD4s from HIV-1-infected individuals on antiretroviral therapy, rapamycin treatment downregulated markers of toxicity, including proinflammatory cytokine release and cellular proliferation that were induced after potent T cell activation using αCD3/αCD28 antibodies. Using an ex vivo assay for HIV-1 mRNA, we demonstrated that despite this immunomodulatory effect, rapamycin did not affect HIV-1 gene expression induced by T cell activation in these rCD4s. In contrast, treating activated rCD4s with the immunosuppressant cyclosporin, a calcineurin inhibitor, robustly inhibited HIV-1 reactivation. Importantly, rapamycin treatment did not impair cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) recognition and killing of infected cells. These findings raise the possibility of using rapamycin in conjunction with T cell-activating agents in HIV-1 cure strategies.
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15
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Wang K, Wu D, Chen Z, Zhang X, Yang X, Yang CJ, Lan X. Inhibition of the superantigenic activities of Staphylococcal enterotoxin A by an aptamer antagonist. Toxicon 2016; 119:21-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Krakauer T, Pradhan K, Stiles BG. Staphylococcal Superantigens Spark Host-Mediated Danger Signals. Front Immunol 2016; 7:23. [PMID: 26870039 PMCID: PMC4735405 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) of Staphylococcus aureus, and related superantigenic toxins produced by myriad microbes, are potent stimulators of the immune system causing a variety of human diseases from transient food poisoning to lethal toxic shock. These protein toxins bind directly to specific Vβ regions of T-cell receptors (TCR) and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II on antigen-presenting cells, resulting in hyperactivation of T lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages. Activated host cells produce excessive amounts of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, especially tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1 (IL-1), IL-2, interferon γ (IFNγ), and macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 causing clinical symptoms of fever, hypotension, and shock. Because of superantigen-induced T cells skewed toward TH1 helper cells, and the induction of proinflammatory cytokines, superantigens can exacerbate autoimmune diseases. Upon TCR/MHC ligation, pathways induced by superantigens include the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades and cytokine receptor signaling, resulting in activation of NFκB and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin pathways. Various mouse models exist to study SEB-induced shock including those with potentiating agents, transgenic mice and an “SEB-only” model. However, therapeutics to treat toxic shock remain elusive as host response genes central to pathogenesis of superantigens have only been identified recently. Gene profiling of a murine model for SEB-induced shock reveals novel molecules upregulated in multiple organs not previously associated with SEB-induced responses. The pivotal genes include intracellular DNA/RNA sensors, apoptosis/DNA damage-related molecules, immunoproteasome components, as well as antiviral and IFN-stimulated genes. The host-wide induction of these, and other, antimicrobial defense genes provide evidence that SEB elicits danger signals resulting in multi-organ damage and toxic shock. Ultimately, these discoveries might lead to novel therapeutics for various superantigen-based diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Krakauer
- Department of Immunology, Molecular Translational Sciences Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick , Frederick, MD , USA
| | - Kisha Pradhan
- Biology Department, Wilson College , Chambersburg, PA , USA
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Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B is one of the most potent bacterial superantigens that exerts profound toxic effects upon the immune system, leading to stimulation of cytokine release and inflammation. It is associated with food poisoning, nonmenstrual toxic shock, atopic dermatitis, asthma, and nasal polyps in humans. Currently, there is no treatment or vaccine available. Passive immunotherapy using monoclonal antibodies made in several different species has shown significant inhibition in in vitro studies and reduction in staphylococcal enterotoxin B-induced lethal shock in in vivo studies. This should encourage future endeavors to develop these antibodies as therapeutic reagents.
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Rao R, Nagarkatti PS, Nagarkatti M. Δ(9) Tetrahydrocannabinol attenuates Staphylococcal enterotoxin B-induced inflammatory lung injury and prevents mortality in mice by modulation of miR-17-92 cluster and induction of T-regulatory cells. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 172:1792-806. [PMID: 25425209 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is a potent activator of Vβ8+T-cells resulting in the clonal expansion of ∼30% of the T-cell pool. Consequently, this leads to the release of inflammatory cytokines, toxic shock, and eventually death. In the current study, we investigated if Δ(9) tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabinoid known for its anti-inflammatory properties, could prevent SEB-induced mortality and alleviate symptoms of toxic shock. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We investigated the efficacy of THC against the dual administration (intranasal and i.p.) of SEB into C3H/HeJ mice based on the measurement of SEB-mediated clinical parameters, including cytokine production, cellular infiltration, vascular leak, and airway resistance. In addition, the molecular mechanism of action was elucidated in vitro by the activation of splenocytes with SEB. KEY RESULTS Exposure to SEB resulted in acute mortality, while THC treatment led to 100% survival of mice. SEB induced the miRNA-17-92 cluster, specifically miRNA-18a, which targeted Pten (phosphatase and tensin homologue), an inhibitor of the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway, thereby suppressing T-regulatory cells. In contrast, THC treatment inhibited the individual miRNAs in the cluster, reversing the effects of SEB. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We report, for the first time a role for the miRNA 17-92 cluster in SEB-mediated inflammation. Furthermore, our results suggest that THC is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that may serve as a novel therapeutic to suppress SEB-induced pulmonary inflammation by modulating critical miRNA involved in SEB-induced toxicity and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Rao
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
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Neutralization of staphylococcal enterotoxin B by an aptamer antagonist. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2015; 59:2072-7. [PMID: 25624325 DOI: 10.1128/aac.04414-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is a major virulence factor for staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome (TSS). SEB activates a large subset of the T lymphocytic population, releasing proinflammatory cytokines. Blocking SEB-initiated toxicity may be an effective strategy for treating TSS. Using a process known as systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX), we identified an aptamer that can antagonize SEB with nanomolar binding affinity (Kd = 64 nM). The aptamer antagonist effectively inhibits SEB-mediated proliferation and cytokine secretion in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Moreover, a PEGylated aptamer antagonist significantly reduced mortality in a "double-hit" mouse model of SEB-induced TSS, established via sensitization with d-galactosamine followed by SEB challenge. Therefore, our novel aptamer antagonist may offer potential therapeutic efficacy against SEB-mediated TSS.
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20
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Song Y, Xue H, Liu TT, Liu JM, Chen D. Rapamycin Plays a Neuroprotective Effect after Spinal Cord Injury via Anti-Inflammatory Effects. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2014; 29:29-34. [DOI: 10.1002/jbt.21603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Revised: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Song
- Department of Histology & Embryology; College of Basic Medical Sciences; Jilin University; Changchun 130021 People's Republic of China
- Department of Anatomy; Changchun Medical College; Changchun 130021 People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Xue
- Department of Histology & Embryology; College of Basic Medical Sciences; Jilin University; Changchun 130021 People's Republic of China
| | - Ting-ting Liu
- Department of Pathology; Affiliated Hospital of Jilin Medical College; Jilin 132013 People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-mei Liu
- Department of Histology & Embryology; College of Basic Medical Sciences; Jilin University; Changchun 130021 People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Histology & Embryology; Guangdong Medical College; Dongguan 523808 People's Republic of China
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21
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Defective autophagy impairs ATF3 activity and worsens lung injury during endotoxemia. J Mol Med (Berl) 2014; 92:665-76. [PMID: 24535031 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-014-1132-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2013] [Revised: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 02/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Autophagy has emerged as a key regulator of the inflammatory response. To examine the role of autophagy in the development of organ dysfunction during endotoxemia, wild-type and autophagy-deficient (Atg4b-null) mice were challenged with lipopolysaccharide. Animals lacking Atg4b showed increased mortality after endotoxemia. Among the different organs studied, only the lungs showed significant differences between genotypes, with increased damage in mutant animals. Autophagy was activated in lungs from wild-type, LPS-treated mice. Similarly, human bronchial cells show an increased autophagy when exposed to serum from septic patients. We found an increased inflammatory response (increased neutrophilic infiltration, higher levels of Il6, Il12p40, and Cxcl2) in the lungs from knockout mice and identified perinuclear sequestration of the anti-inflammatory transcription factor ATF3 as the putative mechanism responsible for the differences between genotypes. Finally, induction of autophagy by starvation before LPS exposure resulted in a dampened pulmonary response to LPS in wild-type, but not knockout, mice. Similar results were found in human bronchial cells exposed to LPS. Our results demonstrate the central role of autophagy in the regulation of the lung response to endotoxemia and sepsis and its potential modulation by nutrition. KEY MESSAGES Endotoxemia and sepsis trigger autophagy in lung tissue. Defective autophagy increases mortality and lung inflammation after endotoxemia. Impairment of autophagy results is perinuclear ATF3 sequestration. Starvation ameliorates lung injury by an autophagy-dependent mechanism.
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Ferreyra GA, Elinoff JM, Demirkale CY, Starost MF, Buckley M, Munson PJ, Krakauer T, Danner RL. Late multiple organ surge in interferon-regulated target genes characterizes staphylococcal enterotoxin B lethality. PLoS One 2014; 9:e88756. [PMID: 24551153 PMCID: PMC3923834 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0088756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bacterial superantigens are virulence factors that cause toxic shock syndrome. Here, the genome-wide, temporal response of mice to lethal intranasal staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) challenge was investigated in six tissues. Results The earliest responses and largest number of affected genes occurred in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), spleen, and lung tissues with the highest content of both T-cells and monocyte/macrophages, the direct cellular targets of SEB. In contrast, the response of liver, kidney, and heart was delayed and involved fewer genes, but revealed a dominant genetic program that was seen in all 6 tissues. Many of the 85 uniquely annotated transcripts participating in this shared genomic response have not been previously linked to SEB. Nine of the 85 genes were subsequently confirmed by RT-PCR in every tissue/organ at 24 h. These 85 transcripts, up-regulated in all tissues, annotated to the interferon (IFN)/antiviral-response and included genes belonging to the DNA/RNA sensing system, DNA damage repair, the immunoproteasome, and the ER/metabolic stress-response and apoptosis pathways. Overall, this shared program was identified as a type I and II interferon (IFN)-response and the promoters of these genes were highly enriched for IFN regulatory matrices. Several genes whose secreted products induce the IFN pathway were up-regulated at early time points in PBMCs, spleen, and/or lung. Furthermore, IFN regulatory factors including Irf1, Irf7 and Irf8, and Zbp1, a DNA sensor/transcription factor that can directly elicit an IFN innate immune response, participated in this host-wide SEB signature. Conclusion Global gene-expression changes across multiple organs implicated a host-wide IFN-response in SEB-induced death. Therapies aimed at IFN-associated innate immunity may improve outcome in toxic shock syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela A Ferreyra
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics Facility, Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jason M Elinoff
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics Facility, Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Cumhur Y Demirkale
- Mathematical and Statistical Computing Laboratory, Center for Information Technology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Matthew F Starost
- Division of Veterinary Resources, Office of Research Services, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Marilyn Buckley
- Integrated Toxicology Division, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Peter J Munson
- Mathematical and Statistical Computing Laboratory, Center for Information Technology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Teresa Krakauer
- Integrated Toxicology Division, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Robert L Danner
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics Facility, Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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Kim H, Darwish I, Monroy MF, Prockop DJ, Liles WC, Kain KC. Mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine production but fail to improve survival in experimental staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome. BMC Immunol 2014; 15:1. [PMID: 24423010 PMCID: PMC3898056 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2172-15-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 01/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is caused by an overwhelming host-mediated response to bacterial superantigens produced mainly by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. TSS is characterized by aberrant activation of T cells and excessive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines ultimately resulting in capillary leak, septic shock, multiple organ dysfunction and high mortality rates. No therapeutic or vaccine has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for TSS, and novel therapeutic strategies to improve clinical outcome are needed. Mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells (MSCs) are stromal cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation. Moreover, MSCs have immunomodulatory properties, including profound effects on activities of T cells and macrophages in specific contexts. Based on the critical role of host-derived immune mediators in TSS, we hypothesized that MSCs could modulate the host-derived proinflammatory response triggered by Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) and improve survival in experimental TSS. Methods Effects of MSCs on proinflammatory cytokines in peripheral blood were measured in wild-type C57BL/6 mice injected with 50 μg of SEB. Effects of MSCs on survival were monitored in fatal experimental TSS induced by consecutive doses of D-galactosamine (10 mg) and SEB (10 μg) in HLA-DR4 transgenic mice. Results Despite significantly decreasing serum levels of IL-2, IL-6 and TNF induced by SEB in wild-type mice, human MSCs failed to improve survival in experimental TSS in HLA-DR4 transgenic mice. Similarly, a previously described downstream mediator of human MSCs, TNF-stimulated gene 6 (TSG-6), did not significantly improve survival in experimental TSS. Furthermore, murine MSCs, whether unstimulated or pre-treated with IFNγ, failed to improve survival in experimental TSS. Conclusions Our results suggest that the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs are insufficient to rescue mice from experimental TSS, and that mediators other than IL-2, IL-6 and TNF are likely to play critical mechanistic roles in the pathogenesis of experimental TSS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Kevin C Kain
- Sandra A, Rotman Laboratories, Sandra Rotman Centre for Global Health, University Health Network-Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5G 1 L7, Canada.
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Lindsay CD, Griffiths GD. Addressing bioterrorism concerns: options for investigating the mechanism of action of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B. Hum Exp Toxicol 2013; 32:606-19. [PMID: 23023027 DOI: 10.1177/0960327112458941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is of concern to military and civilian populations as a bioterrorism threat agent. It is a highly potent toxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus and is stable in storage and under aerosolisation; it is able to produce prolonged highly incapacitating illness at very low-inhaled doses and death at elevated doses. Concerns regarding SEB are compounded by the lack of effective medical countermeasures for mass treatment of affected populations. This article considers the mechanism of action of SEB, the availability of appropriate experimental models for evaluating the efficacy of candidate medical countermeasures with particular reference to the need to realistically model SEB responses in man and the availability of candidate countermeasures (with an emphasis on commercial off-the-shelf options). The proposed in vitro approaches would be in keeping with Dstl’s commitment to reduction, refinement and replacement of animal models in biomedical research, particularly in relation to identifying valid alternatives to the use of nonhuman primates in experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C D Lindsay
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Dstl Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK.
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Krakauer T. Update on staphylococcal superantigen-induced signaling pathways and therapeutic interventions. Toxins (Basel) 2013; 5:1629-54. [PMID: 24064719 PMCID: PMC3798877 DOI: 10.3390/toxins5091629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Revised: 09/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) and related bacterial toxins cause diseases in humans and laboratory animals ranging from food poisoning, acute lung injury to toxic shock. These superantigens bind directly to the major histocompatibility complex class II molecules on antigen-presenting cells and specific Vβ regions of T-cell receptors (TCR), resulting in rapid hyper-activation of the host immune system. In addition to TCR and co-stimulatory signals, proinflammatory mediators activate signaling pathways culminating in cell-stress response, activation of NFκB and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). This article presents a concise review of superantigen-activated signaling pathways and focuses on the therapeutic challenges against bacterial superantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Krakauer
- Department of Immunology, Integrated Toxicology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD 21702 5011, USA.
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Abstract
Recent discoveries suggest that aging is neither driven by accumulation of molecular damage of any cause, nor by random damage of any kind. Some predictions of a new theory, quasi-programmed hyperfunction, have already been confirmed and a clinically-available drug slows aging and delays diseases in animals. The relationship between diseases and aging becomes easily apparent. Yet, the essence of aging turns out to be so startling that the theory cannot be instantly accepted and any possible arguments are raised for its disposal. I discuss that these arguments actually support a new theory. Are any questions remaining? And might accumulation of molecular damage still play a peculiar role in aging?
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail V Blagosklonny
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, BLSC, L3-312, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA.
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Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus plays an important role in numerous human cases of food poisoning, soft tissue, and bone infections, as well as potentially lethal toxic shock. This common bacterium synthesizes various virulence factors that include staphylococcal enterotoxins (SEs). These protein toxins bind directly to major histocompatibility complex class II on antigen-presenting cells and specific Vβ regions of T-cell receptors, resulting in potentially life-threatening stimulation of the immune system. Picomolar concentrations of SEs ultimately elicit proinflammatory cytokines that can induce fever, hypotension, multi-organ failure, and lethal shock. Various in vitro and in vivo models have provided important tools for studying the biological effects of, as well as potential vaccines/therapeutics against, the SEs. This review succinctly presents known physical and biological properties of the SEs, including various intervention strategies. In particular, SEB will often be portrayed as per biodefense concerns dating back to the 1960s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Krakauer
- Integrated Toxicology Division; United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases; Fort Detrick, MD USA
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Krakauer T. PI3K/Akt/mTOR, a pathway less recognized for staphylococcal superantigen-induced toxicity. Toxins (Basel) 2012; 4:1343-66. [PMID: 23202320 PMCID: PMC3509712 DOI: 10.3390/toxins4111343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Revised: 11/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunostimulating staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) and related superantigenic toxins cause diseases in humans and laboratory animals by activating cells of the immune system. These toxins bind directly to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules on antigen-presenting cells and specific Vβ regions of T-cell receptors (TCR), resulting in hyperactivation of both T lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages. Activated host cells produce excessive amounts of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, especially tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1 (IL-1), IL-2, interferon γ (IFNγ), and macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 causing clinical symptoms of fever, hypotension, and shock. The well-explored signal transduction pathways for SEB-induced toxicity downstream from TCR/MHC ligation and interaction of cell surface co-stimulatory molecules include the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades and cytokine receptor signaling, culminating in NFκB activation. Independently, IL-2, IFNγ, and chemokines from activated T cells signal via the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), the serine/threonine kinases, Akt and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways. This article reviews the signaling molecules induced by superantigens in the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways leading to staphylococcal superantigen-induced toxicity and updates potential therapeutics against superantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Krakauer
- Department of Immunology, Integrated Toxicology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
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Krakauer T, Buckley M. Intranasal rapamycin rescues mice from staphylococcal enterotoxin B-induced shock. Toxins (Basel) 2012; 4:718-28. [PMID: 23105977 PMCID: PMC3475225 DOI: 10.3390/toxins4090718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Revised: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 08/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) and related exotoxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus are potent activators of the immune system and cause toxic shock in humans. Currently there is no effective treatment except for the use of intravenous immunoglobulins administered shortly after SEB exposure. Intranasal SEB induces long-lasting lung injury which requires prolonged drug treatment. We investigated the effects of rapamycin, an immunosuppressive drug used to prevent graft rejection, by intranasal administration in a lethal mouse model of SEB-induced shock. The results show that intranasal rapamycin alone delivered as late as 17 h after SEB protected 100% of mice from lethal shock. Additionally, rapamycin diminished the weight loss and temperature fluctuations elicited by SEB. Intranasal rapamycin attenuated lung MCP-1, IL-2, IL-6, and IFNγ by 70%, 30%, 64%, and 68% respectively. Furthermore, short courses (three doses) of rapamycin were sufficient to block SEB-induced shock. Intranasal rapamycin represents a novel use of an immunosuppressant targeting directly to site of toxin exposure, reducing dosages needed and allowing a wider therapeutic window.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Krakauer
- Integrated Toxicology Division, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, MD 21702, USA.
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Chen HC, Fong TH, Hsu PW, Chiu WT. Multifaceted effects of rapamycin on functional recovery after spinal cord injury in rats through autophagy promotion, anti-inflammation, and neuroprotection. J Surg Res 2012; 179:e203-10. [PMID: 22482761 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2012.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Revised: 02/08/2012] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are serious and debilitating health problems that lead to severe and permanent neurological deficits resulting from the primary mechanical impact followed by secondary tissue injury. During the acute stage after an SCI, the expression of autophagy and inflammatory responses contribute to the development of secondary injury. In the present study, we examined the multifaceted effects of rapamycin on outcomes of rats after an SCI. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used 72 female Sprague-Dawley rats for this study. In the SCI group, we performed a laminectomy at T10, followed by impact-contusion of the spinal cord. In the control group, we performed only a laminectomy without contusion. We evaluated the effects of rapamycin using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan scale for functional outcomes, Western blot analyses for analyzing LC3-II, tumor necrosis factor expression, and p70S6K phosphorylation, and an immunostaining technique for localization and enumeration of microglial and neuronal cells. RESULTS Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan scores after injury significantly improved in the rapamycin-treated group compared with the vehicle group (on Day 28 after the SCI; P < .05). The Western blot analysis demonstrated that rapamycin enhanced LC3-II expression and decreased p70S6K phosphorylation compared with the vehicle (P < .01), which implies promotion of autophagy through mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition. Furthermore, rapamycin treatment significantly attenuated tumor necrosis factor production and microglial expression (P < .05). Immunohistochemistry of NeuN (antibodies specific to neurons) showed remarkable neuronal cell preservation in the rapamycin-treated group compared with the vehicle-treated group (P < .05), which suggests a neuroprotective effect of rapamycin. CONCLUSIONS Rapamycin is a novel neuroprotectant with multifaceted effects on the rat spinal cord after injury. Use of such a clinically established drug could facilitate early clinical trials in selected cases of human SCIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Chih Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Keelung, Taiwan
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Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a Gram positive bacterium that is carried by about one third of the general population and is responsible for common and serious diseases. These diseases include food poisoning and toxic shock syndrome, which are caused by exotoxins produced by S. aureus. Of the more than 20 Staphylococcal enterotoxins, SEA and SEB are the best characterized and are also regarded as superantigens because of their ability to bind to class II MHC molecules on antigen presenting cells and stimulate large populations of T cells that share variable regions on the β chain of the T cell receptor. The result of this massive T cell activation is a cytokine bolus leading to an acute toxic shock. These proteins are highly resistant to denaturation, which allows them to remain intact in contaminated food and trigger disease outbreaks. A recognized problem is the emergence of multi-drug resistant strains of S. aureus and these are a concern in the clinical setting as they are a common cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in hospitalized patients. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of these proteins.
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Therapeutic down-modulators of staphylococcal superantigen-induced inflammation and toxic shock. Toxins (Basel) 2010; 2:1963-83. [PMID: 22069668 PMCID: PMC3153276 DOI: 10.3390/toxins2081963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2010] [Revised: 07/16/2010] [Accepted: 07/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) and related superantigenic toxins are potent stimulators of the immune system and cause a variety of diseases in humans, ranging from food poisoning to toxic shock. These toxins bind directly to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules on antigen-presenting cells and specific Vβ regions of T-cell receptors (TCR), resulting in hyperactivation of both monocytes/macrophages and T lymphocytes. Activated host cells produce massive amounts of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, activating inflammation and coagulation, causing clinical symptoms that include fever, hypotension, and shock. This review summarizes the in vitro and in vivo effects of staphylococcal superantigens, the role of pivotal mediators induced by these toxins in the pathogenic mechanisms of tissue injury, and the therapeutic agents to mitigate the toxic effects of superantigens.
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