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Chen Z, Cheng S, Chen X, Zhang Z, Du Y. New advances in immune mechanism and treatment during ocular toxoplasmosis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1403025. [PMID: 38799473 PMCID: PMC11116678 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1403025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is an intraocular infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. OT is manifested as retinal choroiditis and is the most common infectious cause of posterior uveitis. Invasion of the retina by T. gondii leads to disruption of the blood-ocular barrier and promotes the migration of immune cells to the ocular tissues. Cytokines such as IFN-γ and IL-1β are effective for controlling parasite growth, but excessive inflammatory responses can cause damage to the host. In this review, we will discuss in detail the latest advances in the immunopathology and treatment of OT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Shizhou Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoming Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Zuhai Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Yanhua Du
- Physical Examination Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
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Andreou D, Steen NE, Mørch-Johnsen L, Jørgensen KN, Wortinger LA, Barth C, Szabo A, O'Connell KS, Lekva T, Hjell G, Johansen IT, Ormerod MBEG, Haukvik UK, Aukrust P, Djurovic S, Yolken RH, Andreassen OA, Ueland T, Agartz I. Toxoplasma gondii infection associated with inflammasome activation and neuronal injury. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5327. [PMID: 38438515 PMCID: PMC10912117 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55887-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (TOXO) infection typically results in chronic latency due to its ability to form cysts in the brain and other organs. Latent toxoplasmosis could promote innate immune responses and impact brain function. A large body of evidence has linked TOXO infection to severe mental illness (SMI). We hypothesized that TOXO immunoglobulin G (IgG) seropositivity, reflecting previous infection and current latency, is associated with increased circulating neuron-specific enolase (NSE), a marker of brain damage, and interleukin-18 (IL-18), an innate immune marker, mainly in SMI. We included 735 patients with SMI (schizophrenia or bipolar spectrum) (mean age 32 years, 47% women), and 518 healthy controls (HC) (mean age 33 years, 43% women). TOXO IgG, expressed as seropositivity/seronegativity, NSE and IL-18 were measured with immunoassays. We searched for main and interaction effects of TOXO, patient/control status and sex on NSE and IL-18. In the whole sample as well as among patients and HC separately, IL-18 and NSE concentrations were positively correlated (p < 0.001). TOXO seropositive participants had significantly higher NSE (3713 vs. 2200 pg/ml, p < 0.001) and IL-18 levels (1068 vs. 674 pg/ml, p < 0.001) than seronegative participants, and evaluation within patients and HC separately showed similar results. Post-hoc analysis on cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus 1 IgG status showed no associations with NSE or IL-18 which may suggest TOXO specificity. These results may indicate ongoing inflammasome activation and neuronal injury in people with TOXO infections unrelated to diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Andreou
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Forskningsveien 7, 0373, Oslo, Norway.
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Nils Eiel Steen
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Forskningsveien 7, 0373, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lynn Mørch-Johnsen
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Clinical Research, Østfold Hospital, Grålum, Norway
| | - Kjetil Nordbø Jørgensen
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Laura A Wortinger
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Forskningsveien 7, 0373, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Claudia Barth
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Forskningsveien 7, 0373, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Attila Szabo
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kevin S O'Connell
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tove Lekva
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gabriela Hjell
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Clinical Research, Østfold Hospital, Grålum, Norway
| | - Ingrid Torp Johansen
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Monica B E G Ormerod
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Unn K Haukvik
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Forensic Research and Education, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Pål Aukrust
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Srdjan Djurovic
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Robert H Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ole A Andreassen
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Thor Ueland
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Thrombosis Research Center (TREC), Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ingrid Agartz
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Forskningsveien 7, 0373, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
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Abstract
Viral infections are a leading cause of myocarditis and pericarditis worldwide, conditions that frequently coexist. Myocarditis and pericarditis were some of the early comorbidities associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19. Many epidemiologic studies have been conducted since that time concluding that SARS-CoV-2 increased the incidence of myocarditis/pericarditis at least 15× over pre-COVID levels although the condition remains rare. The incidence of myocarditis pre-COVID was reported at 1 to 10 cases/100 000 individuals and with COVID ranging from 150 to 4000 cases/100 000 individuals. Before COVID-19, some vaccines were reported to cause myocarditis and pericarditis in rare cases, but the use of novel mRNA platforms led to a higher number of reported cases than with previous platforms providing new insight into potential pathogenic mechanisms. The incidence of COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis/pericarditis covers a large range depending on the vaccine platform, age, and sex examined. Importantly, the findings highlight that myocarditis occurs predominantly in male patients aged 12 to 40 years regardless of whether the cause was due to a virus-like SARS-CoV-2 or associated with a vaccine-a demographic that has been reported before COVID-19. This review discusses findings from COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis and pericarditis considering the known symptoms, diagnosis, management, treatment, and pathogenesis of disease that has been gleaned from clinical research and animal models. Sex differences in the immune response to COVID-19 are discussed, and theories for how mRNA vaccines could lead to myocarditis/pericarditis are proposed. Additionally, gaps in our understanding that need further research are raised.
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Affiliation(s)
- DeLisa Fairweather
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine (D.F., D.J.B., D.N.D., L.T.C.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD (D.F.,)
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (D.F., D.J.B., D.N.D.)
| | - Danielle J. Beetler
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine (D.F., D.J.B., D.N.D., L.T.C.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
- Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (D.J.B., D.N.D.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (D.F., D.J.B., D.N.D.)
| | - Damian N. Di Florio
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine (D.F., D.J.B., D.N.D., L.T.C.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
- Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (D.J.B., D.N.D.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (D.F., D.J.B., D.N.D.)
| | - Nicolas Musigk
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Berlin, Germany (N.M., B.H.)
| | | | - Leslie T. Cooper
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine (D.F., D.J.B., D.N.D., L.T.C.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
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Clark JT, Weizman OE, Aldridge DL, Shallberg LA, Eberhard J, Lanzar Z, Wasche D, Huck JD, Zhou T, Ring AM, Hunter CA. IL-18BP mediates the balance between protective and pathological immune responses to Toxoplasma gondii. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112147. [PMID: 36827187 PMCID: PMC10131179 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-18 (IL-18) promotes natural killer (NK) and T cell production of interferon (IFN)-γ, a key factor in resistance to Toxoplasma gondii, but previous work has shown a limited role for endogenous IL-18 in control of this parasite. Although infection with T. gondii results in release of IL-18, the production of IFN-γ induces high levels of the IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP). Antagonism of IL-18BP with a "decoy-to-the-decoy" (D2D) IL-18 construct that does not signal but rather binds IL-18BP results in enhanced innate lymphoid cell (ILC) and T cell responses and improved parasite control. In addition, the use of IL-18 resistant to IL-18BP ("decoy-resistant" IL-18 [DR-18]) is more effective than exogenous IL-18 at promoting innate resistance to infection. DR-18 enhances CD4+ T cell production of IFN-γ but results in CD4+ T cell-mediated pathology. Thus, endogenous IL-18BP restrains aberrant immune pathology, and this study highlights strategies that can be used to tune this regulatory pathway for optimal anti-pathogen responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T Clark
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Orr-El Weizman
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Daniel L Aldridge
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lindsey A Shallberg
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Julia Eberhard
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zachary Lanzar
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Devon Wasche
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - John D Huck
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Ting Zhou
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Aaron M Ring
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA.
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Snyder LM, Belmares-Ortega J, Doherty CM, Denkers EY. Impact of MyD88, Microbiota, and Location on Type 1 and Type 3 Innate Lymphoid Cells during Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Immunohorizons 2022; 6:660-670. [PMID: 36096673 PMCID: PMC10994198 DOI: 10.4049/immunohorizons.2200070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii induces strong IFN-γ-based immunity. Innate lymphoid cells (ILC), in particular ILC1, are an important innate source of this protective cytokine during infection. Our objective was to determine how MyD88-dependent signaling influences ILC function during peroral compared with i.p. infection with T. gondii. MyD88 +/+ and MyD88 -/- mice were orally inoculated with ME49 cysts, and small intestinal lamina propria ILC were assessed using flow cytometry. We observed T-bet+ ILC1, retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γt+ ILC3, and a population of T-bet+retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γt+ double-positive ILC. In MyD88 -/- mice, IFN-γ-producing T-bet+ ILC1 frequencies were reduced compared with wild-type. Treatment of MyD88 -/- mice with an antibiotic mixture to deplete microflora reduced IFN-γ+ ILC1 frequencies. To examine ILC responses outside of the mucosal immune system, peritoneal exudate cells were collected from wild-type and knockout mice after i.p. inoculation with ME49 cysts. In this compartment, ILC were highly polarized to the ILC1 subset that increased significantly and became highly positive for IFN-γ over the course of infection. Increased ILC1 was associated with expression of the Ki67 cell proliferation marker, and the response was driven by IL-12p40. In the absence of MyD88, IFN-γ expression by ILC1 was not maintained, but proliferation remained normal. Collectively, these data reveal new aspects of ILC function that are influenced by location of infection and shaped further by MyD88-dependent signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay M Snyder
- Center for Evolutionary & Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM; and Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Jessica Belmares-Ortega
- Center for Evolutionary & Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM; and Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Claire M Doherty
- Center for Evolutionary & Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM; and Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Eric Y Denkers
- Center for Evolutionary & Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM; and Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
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Zhu L, Qi W, Yang G, Yang Y, Wang Y, Zheng L, Fu Y, Cheng X. Toxoplasma gondii Rhoptry Protein 7 (ROP7) Interacts with NLRP3 and Promotes Inflammasome Hyperactivation in THP-1-Derived Macrophages. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101630. [PMID: 35626667 PMCID: PMC9139738 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a common opportunistic protozoan pathogen that can parasitize the karyocytes of humans and virtually all other warm-blooded animals. In the host’s innate immune response to T. gondii infection, inflammasomes can mediate the maturation of pro-IL-1β and pro-IL-18, which further enhances the immune response. However, how intercellular parasites specifically provoke inflammasome activation remains unclear. In this study, we found that the T. gondii secretory protein, rhoptry protein 7 (ROP7), could interact with the NACHT domain of NLRP3 through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis and co-immunoprecipitation assays. When expressing ROP7 in differentiated THP-1 cells, there was significant up-regulation in NF-κB and continuous release of IL-1β. This process is pyroptosis-independent and leads to inflammasome hyperactivation through the IL-1β/NF-κB/NLRP3 feedback loop. The loss of ROP7 in tachyzoites did not affect parasite proliferation in host cells but did attenuate parasite-induced inflammatory activity. In conclusion, these findings unveil that a T. gondii-derived protein is able to promote inflammasome activation, and further study of ROP7 will deepen our understanding of host innate immunity to parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Zhu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (L.Z.); (W.Q.); (X.C.)
| | - Wanjun Qi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (L.Z.); (W.Q.); (X.C.)
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
| | - Yurong Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China;
| | - Yuwen Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Optical Instrument and System, The Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Modern Optical System, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China; (Y.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Lulu Zheng
- Engineering Research Center of Optical Instrument and System, The Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Modern Optical System, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China; (Y.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Yongfeng Fu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (L.Z.); (W.Q.); (X.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Xunjia Cheng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (L.Z.); (W.Q.); (X.C.)
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Sánchez-Arcila JC, Jensen KDC. Forward Genetics in Apicomplexa Biology: The Host Side of the Story. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:878475. [PMID: 35646724 PMCID: PMC9133346 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.878475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Forward genetic approaches have been widely used in parasitology and have proven their power to reveal the complexities of host-parasite interactions in an unbiased fashion. Many aspects of the parasite's biology, including the identification of virulence factors, replication determinants, antibiotic resistance genes, and other factors required for parasitic life, have been discovered using such strategies. Forward genetic approaches have also been employed to understand host resistance mechanisms to parasitic infection. Here, we will introduce and review all forward genetic approaches that have been used to identify host factors involved with Apicomplexa infections, which include classical genetic screens and QTL mapping, GWAS, ENU mutagenesis, overexpression, RNAi and CRISPR-Cas9 library screens. Collectively, these screens have improved our understanding of host resistance mechanisms, immune regulation, vaccine and drug designs for Apicomplexa parasites. We will also discuss how recent advances in molecular genetics give present opportunities to further explore host-parasite relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan C. Sánchez-Arcila
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Merced, Merced, CA, United States
| | - Kirk D. C. Jensen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Merced, Merced, CA, United States
- Health Science Research Institute, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, United States
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Harel M, Fauteux-Daniel S, Girard-Guyonvarc'h C, Gabay C. Balance between Interleukin-18 and Interleukin-18 binding protein in auto-inflammatory diseases. Cytokine 2022; 150:155781. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2021.155781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Sana M, Rashid M, Rashid I, Akbar H, Gomez-Marin JE, Dimier-Poisson I. Immune response against toxoplasmosis-some recent updates RH: Toxoplasma gondii immune response. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2022; 36:3946320221078436. [PMID: 35227108 PMCID: PMC8891885 DOI: 10.1177/03946320221078436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Cytokines, soluble mediators of immunity, are key factors of the innate and adaptive immune system. They are secreted from and interact with various types of immune cells to manipulate host body's immune cell physiology for a counter-attack on the foreign body. A study was designed to explore the mechanism of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) resistance from host immune response. METHODS AND RESULTS The published data on aspect of host (murine and human) immune response against T. gondii was taken from Google scholar and PubMed. Most relevant literature was included in this study. The basic mechanism of immune response starts from the interactions of antigens with host immune cells to trigger the production of cytokines (pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory) which then act by forming a cytokinome (network of cytokine). Their secretory equilibrium is essential for endowing resistance to the host against infectious diseases, particularly toxoplasmosis. A narrow balance lying between Th1, Th2, and Th17 cytokines (as demonstrated until now) is essential for the development of resistance against T. gondii as well as for the survival of host. Excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines leads to tissue damage resulting in the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines which enhances the proliferation of Toxoplasma. Stress and other infectious diseases (human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)) that weaken the host immunity particularly the cellular component, make the host susceptible to toxoplasmosis especially in pregnant women. CONCLUSION The current review findings state that in vitro harvesting of IL12 from DCs, Np and MΦ upon exposure with T. gondii might be a source for therapeutic use in toxoplasmosis. Current review also suggests that therapeutic interventions leading to up-regulation/supplementation of SOCS-3, IL12, and IFNγ to the infected host could be a solution to sterile immunity against T. gondii infection. This would be of interest particularly in patients passing through immunosuppression owing to any reason like the ones receiving anti-cancer therapy, the ones undergoing immunosuppressive therapy for graft/transplantation, the ones suffering from immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or having AIDS. Another imortant suggestion is to launch the efforts for a vaccine based on GRA6Nt or other similar antigens of T. gondii as a probable tool to destroy tissue cysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madiha Sana
- Department of Parasitology, 66920University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Rashid
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 66920The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Imran Rashid
- Department of Parasitology, 66920University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Haroon Akbar
- Department of Parasitology, 66920University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Jorge E Gomez-Marin
- Grupo Gepamol, Centro de Investigaciones Biomedicas, Universidad del Quindio, Armenia, CO, South America
| | - Isabelle Dimier-Poisson
- Université de Tours, Institut national de recherche pour l'agriculture, l'alimentation et l'environnement (INRAE), Unité mixte de recherche 1282 (UMR1282), Infectiologie et santé publique (ISP), Tours, France
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10
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Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a parasitic protist infecting a wide group of warm-blooded animals, ranging from birds to humans. While this infection is usually asymptomatic in healthy individuals, it can also lead to severe ocular or neurological outcomes in immunocompromised individuals or in developing fetuses. This obligate intracellular parasite has the ability to infect a considerable range of nucleated cells and can propagate in the intermediate host. Yet, under the pressure of the immune system it transforms into an encysted persistent form residing primarily in the brain and muscle tissues. Encysted parasites, which are resistant to current medication, may reactivate and give rise to an acute infection. The clinical outcome of toxoplasmosis depends on a complex balance between the host immune response and parasite virulence factors. Susceptibility to the disease is thus determined by both parasite strains and host species. Recent advances on our understanding of host cell-parasite interactions and parasite virulence have brought new insights into the pathophysiology of T. gondii infection and are summarized here.
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Pazoki H, Mohammad Rahimi H, Mirjalali H, Niyyati M, Mosaffa N, Seyed Tabaei SJ, Shahrokh S, Asadzadeh Aghdaei H, Zali MR. Soluble total antigen derived from Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites increased the expression levels of NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, and the release of mature form of IL1β, but downregulated the expression of IL1β and IL18 genes in THP-1cell line. Microb Pathog 2021; 158:105072. [PMID: 34192597 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an intracellular parasitic protozoan infecting homoeothermic animals and about a third of the world's population. Inflammasomes are intracellular multi-protein complex, which are activated by many factors. Inflammasomes are activated during toxoplasmosis; however, there are a lot of obscure aspects. THP-1 monocyte cells were converted to M0 macrophages by PMA and treated by 100 μg/mL soluble total Ag (STAg) derived from T. gondii strain RH for two time points 3 h and 24 h. After total RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, the expression pattern of NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, IL1β, and IL18 was evaluated by relative real-time PCR. In addition, the cytokine release of IL1β and TNFα was evaluated in the supernatant of each well. The results showed statistically significant time-dependent overexpression of inflammasomes. NLRP1 and NLRP3 showed the higher and lower expression, respectively, during 3 h and 24 h after exposure. Both IL1β and IL18 downregulated 3 h after exposure. IL18 presented statistically significant upregulation after 24 h, but IL1β showed statistically significant downregulation after 24 h. The release of IL1β increased after 3 h, but it slightly decreased during 24 h after exposure. The concentration of TNFα showed an insignificant decrease compared to control, while it increased during 24 h after exposure. Taken together, this study suggested that T. gondii STAg induces NLRP1 more than NLRP3, NLRC4, and AIM2. Our findings also proposed that T. gondii STAg downregulates the gene expression of IL1β, but increases the release of this cytokine. It seems that Toxoplasma STAg probably increase the release of IL1β via activating NLRPs and AIM2 to cleave pro-caspase 1 to caspase 1 that leads to conversion of pro IL1β to mature IL1β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Pazoki
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hanieh Mohammad Rahimi
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maryam Niyyati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nariman Mosaffa
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Javad Seyed Tabaei
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shabnam Shahrokh
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Asadzadeh Aghdaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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The role of IL-12 in stimulating NK cells against Toxoplasma gondii infection: a mini-review. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:2303-2309. [PMID: 34110502 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07204-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite that can remarkably infect, survive, and replicate in almost all mammalian cells and can cause severe neurological and ocular damage in immunocompromised individuals. It is known that Natural Killer cells (NK cells), as a type of cytotoxic lymphocyte, have critical protective roles in innate immunity during the T. gondii infection through releasing interferon gamma (IFN-γ). Interleukin 12 (IL-12) is a pivotal critical cytokine for the generation of IFN-γ-producing NK cells. Several studies have shown cytokines' impact on NK cell activation; and IL-2 has an important role with a potent stimulatory factor for NK cells. In this review, we summarized the mechanism of interleukin-12 production stimulation by T. gondii tachyzoites and discussed several factors affecting this mechanism.
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13
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Clark JT, Christian DA, Gullicksrud JA, Perry JA, Park J, Jacquet M, Tarrant JC, Radaelli E, Silver J, Hunter CA. IL-33 promotes innate lymphoid cell-dependent IFN-γ production required for innate immunity to Toxoplasma gondii. eLife 2021; 10:e65614. [PMID: 33929319 PMCID: PMC8121546 DOI: 10.7554/elife.65614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
IL-33 is an alarmin required for resistance to the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, but its role in innate resistance to this organism is unclear. Infection with T. gondii promotes increased stromal cell expression of IL-33, and levels of parasite replication correlate with release of IL-33 in affected tissues. In response to infection, a subset of innate lymphoid cells (ILC) emerges composed of IL-33R+ NK cells and ILC1s. In Rag1-/-mice, where NK cells and ILC1 production of IFN-γ mediate innate resistance to T. gondii, the loss of the IL-33R resulted in reduced ILC responses and increased parasite replication. Furthermore, administration of IL-33 to Rag1-/- mice resulted in a marked decrease in parasite burden, increased production of IFN-γ, and the recruitment and expansion of inflammatory monocytes associated with parasite control. These protective effects of exogenous IL-33 were dependent on endogenous IL-12p40 and the ability of IL-33 to enhance ILC production of IFN-γ. These results highlight that IL-33 synergizes with IL-12 to promote ILC-mediated resistance to T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T Clark
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - David A Christian
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Jodi A Gullicksrud
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Joseph A Perry
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Jeongho Park
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
- Kangwon National University College of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Veterinary ScienceChuncheonRepublic of Korea
| | - Maxime Jacquet
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
- Liver Immunology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital of Basel and University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - James C Tarrant
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Enrico Radaelli
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Jonathan Silver
- Department of Respiratory Inflammation and Autoimmunity, AstraZenecaGaithersburgUnited States
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
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14
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Smith NC, Goulart C, Hayward JA, Kupz A, Miller CM, van Dooren GG. Control of human toxoplasmosis. Int J Parasitol 2020; 51:95-121. [PMID: 33347832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an apicomplexan parasite that is able to infect any nucleated cell in any warm-blooded animal. Toxoplasma gondii infects around 2 billion people and, whilst only a small percentage of infected people will suffer serious disease, the prevalence of the parasite makes it one of the most damaging zoonotic diseases in the world. Toxoplasmosis is a disease with multiple manifestations: it can cause a fatal encephalitis in immunosuppressed people; if first contracted during pregnancy, it can cause miscarriage or congenital defects in the neonate; and it can cause serious ocular disease, even in immunocompetent people. The disease has a complex epidemiology, being transmitted by ingestion of oocysts that are shed in the faeces of definitive feline hosts and contaminate water, soil and crops, or by consumption of intracellular cysts in undercooked meat from intermediate hosts. In this review we examine current and future approaches to control toxoplasmosis, which encompass a variety of measures that target different components of the life cycle of T. gondii. These include: education programs about the parasite and avoidance of contact with infectious stages; biosecurity and sanitation to ensure food and water safety; chemo- and immunotherapeutics to control active infections and disease; prophylactic options to prevent acquisition of infection by livestock and cyst formation in meat; and vaccines to prevent shedding of oocysts by definitive feline hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas C Smith
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia.
| | - Cibelly Goulart
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - Jenni A Hayward
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - Andreas Kupz
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Catherine M Miller
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Giel G van Dooren
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
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15
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Cytokine saga in visceral leishmaniasis. Cytokine 2020; 147:155322. [PMID: 33127259 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2020.155322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In humans, infection with Leishmania manifests into a spectrum of diseases. The manifestation of the diseases depend on the resultant evasion of the parasite to immune responses namely by macrophages, which is an exclusive host of Leishmania. The B cells valiantly mount antibody responses, however, to no avail as the Leishmania parasites occupy the intracellular niches of the macrophages and subvert the immune response. Extensive studies have been documented on the role of cell-mediated immunity (CMI) in protection and counter survival strategies of the parasites leading to downregulation of CMI. The present review attempts to discuss the cytokines in progression or resolution of visceral form of leishmaniasis or kala-azar, predominantly affecting the Indian subcontinent. The components/cytokine(s) responsible for the regulation of the critical balance of T helper cells and their subsets have been discussed in the perspective. Therefore, any strategy involving the treatment of visceral leishmania (VL) needs to consider the balance and regulation of T cell function.
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16
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Mukhopadhyay D, Arranz-Solís D, Saeij JPJ. Influence of the Host and Parasite Strain on the Immune Response During Toxoplasma Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:580425. [PMID: 33178630 PMCID: PMC7593385 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.580425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an exceptionally successful parasite that infects a very broad host range, including humans, across the globe. The outcome of infection differs remarkably between hosts, ranging from acute death to sterile infection. These differential disease patterns are strongly influenced by both host- and parasite-specific genetic factors. In this review, we discuss how the clinical outcome of toxoplasmosis varies between hosts and the role of different immune genes and parasite virulence factors, with a special emphasis on Toxoplasma-induced ileitis and encephalitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeroen P. J. Saeij
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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17
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Wang X, Li X, Gong P, Zhang N, Li L, Ouyang H, Jia L, Li J, Zhang X. Pyroptosis executioner gasdermin D contributes to host defense and promotes Th 1 immune response during Neospora caninum infection. Vet Parasitol 2020; 286:109254. [PMID: 33032075 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Neospora caninum (N. caninum) is an intracellular parasite and is the causative agent of neosporosis, which leads to reproductive failure in cattle. Pyroptosis is a recently discovered form of programmed cell death executed by gasdermin D (GSDMD). This cell death mechanism is an important host defense against intracellular pathogens. However, pyroptosis induced by N. caninum is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to explore the roles of GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis during N. caninum infection in vivo. N. caninum-infected wild type mice and GSDMD-deficient mice were used to evaluate host resistance and its ability to affect immune response against this parasite. The results showed that GSDMD deficiency significantly reduced survival and impaired the host's abilities to clear parasite loads in tissues, monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils. Additionally, GSDMD was essential for circulating IL-18 and IFN-γ production induced by N. caninum infection, indicating that GSDMD can mediate the Th 1 immune response against N. caninum infection. Additional data revealed that treatment with exogenous recombinant IL-18 in N. caninum-infected Gsdmd-/- mice rescues the reduction of circulating IFN-γ production to help eliminate the parasite. Taken together, our data indicate that GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis plays a vital role in maintaining host resistance to N. caninum and is essential for clearing the parasite. This form of programmed cell death promotes the Th 1 immune response by controlling IL-18 release and is considered a host defense against N. caninum. This study expands our understanding of interactions between host immune response/defense and N. caninum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research by Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, Jilin, China.
| | - Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research by Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, Jilin, China.
| | - Pengtao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research by Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, Jilin, China.
| | - Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research by Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, Jilin, China.
| | - Lu Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research by Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, Jilin, China.
| | - Hongsheng Ouyang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, Jilin, China.
| | - Lijun Jia
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China.
| | - Jianhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research by Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, Jilin, China.
| | - Xichen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research by Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, Jilin, China.
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18
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Vecchié A, Bonaventura A, Toldo S, Dagna L, Dinarello CA, Abbate A. IL-18 and infections: Is there a role for targeted therapies? J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:1638-1657. [PMID: 32794180 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-18 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine belonging to the IL-1 family, first identified for its interferon-γ-inducing properties. IL-18 regulates both T helper (Th) 1 and Th2 responses. It acts synergistically with IL-12 in the Th1 paradigm, whereas with IL-2 and without IL-12 it can induce Th2 cytokine production from cluster of differentation (CD)4+ T cells, natural killer (NK cells, NKT cells, as well as from Th1 cells. IL-18 also plays a role in the hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, a life-threatening condition characterized by a cytokine storm that can be secondary to infections. IL-18-mediated inflammation was largely studied in animal models of bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. These studies highlight the contribution of either IL-18 overproduction by the host or overresponsiveness of the host to IL-18 causing an exaggerated inflammatory burden and leading to tissue injury. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The damage in the later phase of the disease appears to be driven by a cytokine storm, including interleukin IL-1 family members and secondary cytokines like IL-6. IL-18 may participate in this hyperinflammation, as it was previously found to be able to cause injury in the lung tissue of infected animals. IL-18 blockade has become an appealing therapeutic target and has been tested in some IL-18-mediated rheumatic diseases and infantile-onset macrophage activation syndrome. Given its role in regulating the immune response to infections, IL-18 blockade might represent a therapeutic option for COVID-19, although further studies are warranted to investigate more in detail the exact role of IL-18 in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Vecchié
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Aldo Bonaventura
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia.,Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Toldo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Lorenzo Dagna
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Charles A Dinarello
- Department of Medicine and Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado.,Department of Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Antonio Abbate
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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19
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Kupz A, Pai S, Giacomin PR, Whan JA, Walker RA, Hammoudi PM, Smith NC, Miller CM. Treatment of mice with S4B6 IL-2 complex prevents lethal toxoplasmosis via IL-12- and IL-18-dependent interferon-gamma production by non-CD4 immune cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13115. [PMID: 32753607 PMCID: PMC7403597 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70102-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmic encephalitis is an AIDS-defining condition. The decline of IFN-γ-producing CD4+ T cells in AIDS is a major contributing factor in reactivation of quiescent Toxoplasma gondii to an actively replicating stage of infection. Hence, it is important to characterize CD4-independent mechanisms that constrain acute T. gondii infection. We investigated the in vivo regulation of IFN-γ production by CD8+ T cells, DN T cells and NK cells in response to acute T. gondii infection. Our data show that processing of IFN-γ by these non-CD4 cells is dependent on both IL-12 and IL-18 and the secretion of bioactive IL-18 in response to T. gondii requires the sensing of viable parasites by multiple redundant inflammasome sensors in multiple hematopoietic cell types. Importantly, our results show that expansion of CD8+ T cells, DN T cells and NK cell by S4B6 IL-2 complex pre-treatment increases survival rates of mice infected with T. gondii and this is dependent on IL-12, IL-18 and IFN-γ. Increased survival is accompanied by reduced pathology but is independent of expansion of TReg cells or parasite burden. This provides evidence for a protective role of IL2C-mediated expansion of non-CD4 cells and may represent a promising lead to adjunct therapy for acute toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Kupz
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia.
| | - Saparna Pai
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Paul R Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Whan
- Advanced Analytical Centre, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Robert A Walker
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Pierre-Mehdi Hammoudi
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicholas C Smith
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Parramatta South Campus, Sydney, NSW, 2116, Australia.,School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Catherine M Miller
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia.,Discipline of Biomedicine, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
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20
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Briukhovetska D, Ohm B, Mey FT, Aliberti J, Kleingarn M, Huber-Lang M, Karsten CM, Köhl J. C5aR1 Activation Drives Early IFN-γ Production to Control Experimental Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1397. [PMID: 32733463 PMCID: PMC7362728 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a parasite infecting animals and humans. In intermediate hosts, such as humans or rodents, rapidly replicating tachyzoites drive vigorous innate and adaptive immune responses resulting in bradyzoites that survive within tissue cysts. Activation of the innate immune system is critical during the early phase of infection to limit pathogen growth and to instruct parasite-specific adaptive immunity. In rodents, dendritic cells (DCs) sense T. gondii through TLR11/12, leading to IL-12 production, which activates NK cells to produce IFN-γ as an essential mechanism for early parasite control. Further, C3 can bind to T. gondii resulting in limited complement activation. Here, we determined the role of C5a/C5aR1 axis activation for the early innate immune response in a mouse model of peritoneal T. gondii infection. We found that C5ar1−/− animals suffered from significantly higher weight loss, disease severity, mortality, and parasite burden in the brain than wild type control animals. Severe infection in C5ar1−/− mice was associated with diminished serum concentrations of IL-12, IL-27, and IFN-γ. Importantly, the serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α, as well as several CXC and CC chemokines, were decreased in comparison to wt animals, whereas anti-inflammatory IL-10 was elevated. The defect in IFN-γ production was associated with diminished Ifng mRNA expression in the spleen and the brain, reduced frequency of IFN-γ+ NK cells in the spleen, and decreased Nos2 expression in the brain of C5ar1−/− mice. Mechanistically, DCs from the spleen of C5ar1−/− mice produced significantly less IL-12 in response to soluble tachyzoite antigen (STAg) stimulation in vivo and in vitro. Our findings suggest a model in which the C5a/C5aR1 axis promotes IL-12 induction in splenic DCs that is critical for IFN-γ production from NK cells and subsequent iNOS expression in the brain as a critical mechanism to control acute T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Briukhovetska
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Birte Ohm
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Fabian T Mey
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Julio Aliberti
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Marie Kleingarn
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Markus Huber-Lang
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Trauma-Immunology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christian M Karsten
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jörg Köhl
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital and College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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21
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Mukhopadhyay D, Arranz-Solís D, Saeij JPJ. Toxoplasma GRA15 and GRA24 are important activators of the host innate immune response in the absence of TLR11. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008586. [PMID: 32453782 PMCID: PMC7274473 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The murine innate immune response against Toxoplasma gondii is predominated by the interaction of TLR11/12 with Toxoplasma profilin. However, mice lacking Tlr11 or humans, who do not have functional TLR11 or TLR12, still elicit a strong innate immune response upon Toxoplasma infection. The parasite factors that determine this immune response are largely unknown. Herein, we investigated two dense granule proteins (GRAs) secreted by Toxoplasma, GRA15 and GRA24, for their role in stimulating the innate immune response in Tlr11-/- mice and in human cells, which naturally lack TLR11/TLR12. Our results show that GRA15 and GRA24 synergistically shape the early immune response and parasite virulence in Tlr11-/- mice, with GRA15 as the predominant effector. Nevertheless, acute virulence in Tlr11-/- mice is still dominated by allelic combinations of ROP18 and ROP5, which are effectors that determine evasion of the immunity-related GTPases. In human macrophages, GRA15 and GRA24 play a major role in the induction of IL12, IL18 and IL1β secretion. We further show that GRA15/GRA24-mediated IL12, IL18 and IL1β secretion activates IFNγ secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), which controls Toxoplasma proliferation. Taken together, our study demonstrates the important role of GRA15 and GRA24 in activating the innate immune response in hosts lacking TLR11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debanjan Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - David Arranz-Solís
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Jeroen P. J. Saeij
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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22
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Seo GY, Giles DA, Kronenberg M. The role of innate lymphoid cells in response to microbes at mucosal surfaces. Mucosal Immunol 2020; 13:399-412. [PMID: 32047273 PMCID: PMC7186215 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-0265-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a lymphocyte population that is mostly resident at mucosal surfaces. They help to induce an appropriate immune response to the microbiome at homeostasis. In healthy people, the mucosal immune system works symbiotically with organisms that make up the microbiota. ILCs play a critical role in orchestrating this balance, as they can both influence and in turn be influenced by the microbiome. ILCs also are important regulators of the early response to infections by diverse types of pathogenic microbes at mucosal barriers. Their rapid responses initiate inflammatory programs, production of antimicrobial products and repair processes. This review will focus on the role of ILCs in response to the microbiota and to microbial infections of the lung and intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goo-Young Seo
- Division of Developmental Immunology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Circle La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Daniel A Giles
- Division of Developmental Immunology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Circle La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Mitchell Kronenberg
- Division of Developmental Immunology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Circle La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA,Division of Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA,Correspondence:
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23
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Park J, Hunter CA. The role of macrophages in protective and pathological responses to Toxoplasma gondii. Parasite Immunol 2020; 42:e12712. [PMID: 32187690 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The ability of Toxoplasma gondii to cause clinical disease in immune-competent and immune-deficient hosts coupled with its ease of use in vitro and availability of murine models has led to its use as a model organism to study how the immune system controls an intracellular infection. This article reviews the studies that established the role of the cytokine IFN-γ in the activation of macrophages to control T gondii and the events that lead to the mobilization and expansion of macrophage populations and their ability to limit parasite replication. Macrophages also have pro-inflammatory functions that promote protective NK and T-cell activities as well as regulatory properties that facilitate the resolution of inflammation. Nevertheless, while macrophages are important in determining the outcome of infection, T gondii has evolved mechanisms to subvert macrophage activation and can utilize their migratory activities to promote dissemination and these two properties underlie the ability of this parasite to persist and cause disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeongho Park
- University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Kangwon National University College of Veterinary Medicine and Institute of Veterinary Science, Chuncheon, Korea
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24
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López-Yglesias AH, Camanzo E, Martin AT, Araujo AM, Yarovinsky F. TLR11-independent inflammasome activation is critical for CD4+ T cell-derived IFN-γ production and host resistance to Toxoplasma gondii. PLoS Pathog 2019; 15:e1007872. [PMID: 31194844 PMCID: PMC6599108 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate recognition of invading intracellular pathogens is essential for regulating robust and rapid CD4+ T cell effector function, which is critical for host-mediated immunity. The intracellular apicomplexan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, is capable of infecting almost any nucleated cell of warm-blooded animals, including humans, and establishing tissue cysts that persist throughout the lifetime of the host. Recognition of T. gondii by TLRs is essential for robust IL-12 and IFN-γ production, two major cytokines involved in host resistance to the parasite. In the murine model of infection, robust IL-12 and IFN-γ production have been largely attributed to T. gondii profilin recognition by the TLR11 and TLR12 heterodimer complex, resulting in Myd88-dependent IL-12 production. However, TLR11 or TLR12 deficiency failed to recapitulate the acute susceptibility to T. gondii infection seen in Myd88-/- mice. T. gondii triggers inflammasome activation in a caspase-1-dependent manner resulting in cytokine release; however, it remains undetermined if parasite-mediated inflammasome activation impacts IFN-γ production and host resistance to the parasite. Using mice which lack different inflammasome components, we observed that the inflammasome played a limited role in host resistance when TLR11 remained functional. Strikingly, in the absence of TLR11, caspase-1 and -11 played a significant role for robust CD4+ TH1-derived IFN-γ responses and host survival. Moreover, we demonstrated that in the absence of TLR11, production of the caspase-1-dependent cytokine IL-18 was sufficient and necessary for CD4+ T cell-derived IFN-γ responses. Mechanistically, we established that T. gondii-mediated activation of the inflammasome and IL-18 were critical to maintain robust CD4+ TH1 IFN-γ responses during parasite infection in the absence of TLR11. It is currently estimated that one third of the world’s population is seropositive for the parasite Toxoplasma gondii and this parasite can lead to serious illness and death in immunocompromised patients, and is one of the leading causes of foodborne-related deaths in the United States. Host immunity against the parasite has largely been attributed to recognition of the parasite-derived protein, profilin, by the innate Toll-like receptors (TLRs), TLR11 and TLR12. T. gondii also triggers inflammasome activation in a caspase-1-dependent manner resulting in cytokine release. However, how these innate recognition systems regulate TH1 immunity and host resistance remains largely unknown. Therefore, using genetically modified mice, we investigated TLR11-dependent and -independent host immunity against the parasite. Our research establishes that in the absence of TLR11, inflammasome activation and subsequent production of the inflammasome-dependent molecule, IL-18 are critical for host immunity to the parasite. These data provide novel mechanistic insight into how TLR and inflammasomes cooperate in regulation of TH1 immunity and host protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Américo H. López-Yglesias
- Center for Vaccine Biology and Immunology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY United States of America
| | - Ellie Camanzo
- Center for Vaccine Biology and Immunology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY United States of America
| | - Andrew T. Martin
- Center for Vaccine Biology and Immunology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY United States of America
| | - Alessandra M. Araujo
- Center for Vaccine Biology and Immunology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY United States of America
| | - Felix Yarovinsky
- Center for Vaccine Biology and Immunology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY United States of America
- * E-mail:
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25
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Konstantinovic N, Guegan H, Stäjner T, Belaz S, Robert-Gangneux F. Treatment of toxoplasmosis: Current options and future perspectives. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2019; 15:e00036. [PMID: 32095610 PMCID: PMC7033996 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2019.e00036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide parasitic disease infecting about one third of humans, with possible severe outcomes in neonates and immunocompromised patients. Despite continuous and successful efforts to improve diagnosis, therapeutic schemes have barely evolved since many years. This article aims at reviewing the main clinical trials and current treatment practices, and at addressing future perspectives in the light of ongoing researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Konstantinovic
- National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Hélène Guegan
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Tijana Stäjner
- National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sorya Belaz
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
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26
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Ivanova DL, Denton SL, Fettel KD, Sondgeroth KS, Munoz Gutierrez J, Bangoura B, Dunay IR, Gigley JP. Innate Lymphoid Cells in Protection, Pathology, and Adaptive Immunity During Apicomplexan Infection. Front Immunol 2019; 10:196. [PMID: 30873151 PMCID: PMC6403415 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexans are a diverse and complex group of protozoan pathogens including Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Eimeria spp., and Babesia spp. They infect a wide variety of hosts and are a major health threat to humans and other animals. Innate immunity provides early control and also regulates the development of adaptive immune responses important for controlling these pathogens. Innate immune responses also contribute to immunopathology associated with these infections. Natural killer (NK) cells have been for a long time known to be potent first line effector cells in helping control protozoan infection. They provide control by producing IL-12 dependent IFNγ and killing infected cells and parasites via their cytotoxic response. Results from more recent studies indicate that NK cells could provide additional effector functions such as IL-10 and IL-17 and might have diverse roles in immunity to these pathogens. These early studies based their conclusions on the identification of NK cells to be CD3–, CD49b+, NK1.1+, and/or NKp46+ and the common accepted paradigm at that time that NK cells were one of the only lymphoid derived innate immune cells present. New discoveries have lead to major advances in understanding that NK cells are only one of several populations of innate immune cells of lymphoid origin. Common lymphoid progenitor derived innate immune cells are now known as innate lymphoid cells (ILC) and comprise three different groups, group 1, group 2, and group 3 ILC. They are a functionally heterogeneous and plastic cell population and are important effector cells in disease and tissue homeostasis. Very little is known about each of these different types of ILCs in parasitic infection. Therefore, we will review what is known about NK cells in innate immune responses during different protozoan infections. We will discuss what immune responses attributed to NK cells might be reconsidered as ILC1, 2, or 3 population responses. We will then discuss how different ILCs may impact immunopathology and adaptive immune responses to these parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria L Ivanova
- Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | - Stephen L Denton
- Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | - Kevin D Fettel
- Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | | | - Juan Munoz Gutierrez
- Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Berit Bangoura
- Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | - Ildiko R Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto-von-Guericke Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jason P Gigley
- Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
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27
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Interleukin-18 in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030649. [PMID: 30717382 PMCID: PMC6387150 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 313] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-18 was originally discovered as a factor that enhanced IFN-γ production from anti-CD3-stimulated Th1 cells, especially in the presence of IL-12. Upon stimulation with Ag plus IL-12, naïve T cells develop into IL-18 receptor (IL-18R) expressing Th1 cells, which increase IFN-γ production in response to IL-18 stimulation. Therefore, IL-12 is a commitment factor that induces the development of Th1 cells. In contrast, IL-18 is a proinflammatory cytokine that facilitates type 1 responses. However, IL-18 without IL-12 but with IL-2, stimulates NK cells, CD4+ NKT cells, and established Th1 cells, to produce IL-3, IL-9, and IL-13. Furthermore, together with IL-3, IL-18 stimulates mast cells and basophils to produce IL-4, IL-13, and chemical mediators such as histamine. Therefore, IL-18 is a cytokine that stimulates various cell types and has pleiotropic functions. IL-18 is a member of the IL-1 family of cytokines. IL-18 demonstrates a unique function by binding to a specific receptor expressed on various types of cells. In this review article, we will focus on the unique features of IL-18 in health and disease in experimental animals and humans.
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28
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Bock CN, Babu S, Breloer M, Rajamanickam A, Boothra Y, Brunn ML, Kühl AA, Merle R, Löhning M, Hartmann S, Rausch S. Th2/1 Hybrid Cells Occurring in Murine and Human Strongyloidiasis Share Effector Functions of Th1 Cells. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:261. [PMID: 28676845 PMCID: PMC5476698 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections by the soil-transmitted threadworm Strongyloides stercoralis affect 30–100 million people worldwide, predominantly in tropic and sub-tropic regions. Here we assessed the T helper cell phenotypes in threadworm-infected patients and experimental murine infections with focus on CD4+ T cells co-expressing markers of Th2 and Th1 differentiation. We show that mice infected with the close relative S. ratti generate strong Th2 responses characterized by the expansion of CD4+ GATA-3+ cells expressing IL-4/-5/-13 in blood, spleen, gut-draining lymph nodes, lung and gut tissue. In addition to conventional Th2 cells, significantly increased frequencies of GATA-3+T-bet+ Th2/1-hybrid cells were detected in all organs and co-expressed Th2- and Th1-cytokines at intermediate levels. Assessing the phenotype of blood-derived CD4+ T cells from South Indian patients infected with S. stercoralis and local uninfected control donors we found that GATA-3 expressing Th2 cells were significantly increased in the patient cohort, coinciding with elevated eosinophil and IgE/IgG4 levels. A fraction of IL-4+CD4+ T cells simultaneously expressed IFN-γ hence displaying a Th2/1 hybrid phenotype. In accordance with murine Th2/1 cells, human Th2/1 cells expressed intermediate levels of Th2 cytokines. Contrasting their murine counterparts, human Th2/1 hybrids were marked by high levels of IFN-γ and rather low GATA-3 expression. Assessing the effector function of murine Th2/1 cells in vitro we found that Th2/1 cells were qualified for driving the classical activation of macrophages. Furthermore, Th2/1 cells shared innate, cytokine-driven effector functions with Th1 cells. Hence, the key findings of our study are that T helper cells with combined characteristics of Th2 and Th1 cells are integral to immune responses of helminth-infected mice, but also occur in helminth-infected humans and we suggest that Th2/1 cells are poised for the instruction of balanced immune responses during nematode infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristin N Bock
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität BerlinBerlin, Germany
| | - Subash Babu
- National Institutes of Health-NIRT-International Center for Excellence in ResearchChennai, India.,Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of HealthBethesda, MD, United States
| | - Minka Breloer
- Section for Molecular Biology and Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical MedicineHamburg, Germany
| | - Anuradha Rajamanickam
- National Institutes of Health-NIRT-International Center for Excellence in ResearchChennai, India
| | - Yukhti Boothra
- National Institutes of Health-NIRT-International Center for Excellence in ResearchChennai, India
| | - Marie-Luise Brunn
- Section for Molecular Biology and Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical MedicineHamburg, Germany
| | - Anja A Kühl
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology/Research Center ImmunoSciences, Charité-University Medicine BerlinBerlin, Germany
| | - Roswitha Merle
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universität BerlinBerlin, Germany
| | - Max Löhning
- Experimental Immunology, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-University Medicine BerlinBerlin, Germany.,Pitzer Laboratory of Osteoarthritis Research, German Rheumatism Research Center (DRFZ), Leibniz InstituteBerlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Hartmann
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität BerlinBerlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Rausch
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität BerlinBerlin, Germany
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29
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Wang H, Li M, Liu J, Xu J, Han Q, Liu Q. Toxoplasma gondii Infection Induces High Mobility Group Box 1 Released from Mouse Macrophages. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:658. [PMID: 28484433 PMCID: PMC5402041 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is abundantly expressed in intracellular engaged DNA binding ability. However, more importantly, it is a weapon against infection through proinflammatory response and immune regulation while released to extracellular. Toxoplasma gondii causes inflammatory pathological changes including ileitis and encephalitis in chronic infection. To investigate whether HMGB1 contributes to the toxoplasmosis lesions, we examined HMGB1 changes during T. gondii infection. The results showed that HMGB1 transcription was down-regulated in the murine macrophage ANA1 cell line and mouse peritoneal macrophages (PMΦs) after T. gondii inoculation, but up-regulated in the IFN-γ treated macrophages and the intraperitoneal exudate cells from the T. gondii infected mice. The content of intracellular HMGB1 are basically consistent with the transcription levels in ANA1 assay, while there were no obvious changes in the mouse PMΦs. Both ANA1 and mouse PMΦs released HMGB1 after parasites infection, and no obvious HMGB1 aggregation in cytoplasm compare to the IFN-γ treatment group. Furthermore, we demonstrated that T. gondii invasion led to HMGB1 release, which was dependent on the Caspase 1 activity. These finding should promote to further investigate the functions of extracellular HMGB1 in the toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China.,Department of Pathogenic Biology, Chengdu Medical CollegeChengdu, China
| | - Muzi Li
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Jing Liu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Jianhai Xu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, Hainan Key Laboratory of Sustainable Utilization of Tropical Bioresources, Hainan UniversityHaikou, China
| | - Qun Liu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural UniversityBeijing, China
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30
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Muñoz M, Eidenschenk C, Ota N, Wong K, Lohmann U, Kühl AA, Wang X, Manzanillo P, Li Y, Rutz S, Zheng Y, Diehl L, Kayagaki N, van Lookeren-Campagne M, Liesenfeld O, Heimesaat M, Ouyang W. Interleukin-22 induces interleukin-18 expression from epithelial cells during intestinal infection. Immunity 2015; 42:321-331. [PMID: 25680273 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2015.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
T helper 1 (Th1) cell-associated immunity exacerbates ileitis induced by oral Toxoplasma gondii infection. We show here that attenuated ileitis observed in interleukin-22 (IL-22)-deficient mice was associated with reduced production of Th1-cell-promoting IL-18. IL-22 not only augmented the expression of Il18 mRNA and inactive precursor protein (proIL-18) in intestinal epithelial cells after T. gondii or Citrobacter rodentium infection, but also maintained the homeostatic amount of proIL-18 in the ileum. IL-22, however, did not induce the processing to active IL-18, suggesting a two-step regulation of IL-18 in these cells. Although IL-18 exerted pathogenic functions during ileitis triggered by T. gondii, it was required for host defense against C. rodentium. Conversely, IL-18 was required for the expression of IL-22 in innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) upon T. gondii infection. Our results define IL-18 as an IL-22 target gene in epithelial cells and describe a complex mutual regulation of both cytokines during intestinal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melba Muñoz
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin 12203, Germany
| | - Celine Eidenschenk
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Naruhisa Ota
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Kit Wong
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Uwe Lohmann
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin 12203, Germany
| | - Anja A Kühl
- Department of Medicine I for Gastroenterology, Infectious Disease and Rheumatology and Research Center ImmunoSciences (RCIS), Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin 12203, Germany
| | - Xiaoting Wang
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Paolo Manzanillo
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Yun Li
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Sascha Rutz
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Yan Zheng
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Lauri Diehl
- Pathology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Nobuhiko Kayagaki
- Physiological Chemistry Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | | | - Oliver Liesenfeld
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin 12203, Germany
| | - Markus Heimesaat
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin 12203, Germany
| | - Wenjun Ouyang
- Immunology Department, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
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31
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Cohen SB, Denkers EY. The gut mucosal immune response toToxoplasma gondii. Parasite Immunol 2015; 37:108-17. [DOI: 10.1111/pim.12164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. B. Cohen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology; College of Veterinary Medicine; Cornell University; Ithaca NY USA
| | - E. Y. Denkers
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology; College of Veterinary Medicine; Cornell University; Ithaca NY USA
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32
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Ahmadpour E, Bazmani A, Kohansal MH, Kazemi A, Babaloo Z. IL-18 gene polymorphism in patients with visceral leishmaniasis in East Azarbaijan, Iran. J Parasit Dis 2014; 40:981-5. [PMID: 27605823 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-014-0619-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a parasitic disease caused by Leishmania species. According to the important role of cellular immunity against VL, this study was directed to determine the frequency of -607A/C and -137G/C genotypes on promoter region of interleukin-18 gene. The study groups included 91 patients with confirmed history of VL, 106 healthy seronegative, and 79 healthy seropositive individuals. All three groups were analyzed by amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR). The highest rate of -607/A, and -607/C alleles was observed in seronegative individuals (66/67 %) and in the patients (72/83 %). Allele frequency of -607/C is more than -607/A allele in all groups. In position of -137, frequency of -137/G allele in all groups was more than -137/C. Statistical analysis of distribution of genotypes, did not reveal any significant difference among groups. On the basis of the results, there was no significant association between VL and polymorphism of IL-18 promoter. The results of this study showed that IL-18 gene promoter polymorphisms at positions -607 and -137 are not associated with VL in East Azerbaijan, Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Ahmadpour
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran ; Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ahad Bazmani
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohamad Hasan Kohansal
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Abdolhasan Kazemi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zohre Babaloo
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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33
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Keyel PA. How is inflammation initiated? Individual influences of IL-1, IL-18 and HMGB1. Cytokine 2014; 69:136-45. [PMID: 24746243 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2014.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Revised: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pro-inflammatory cytokines are crucial for fighting infection and establishing immunity. Recently, other proteins, such as danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), have also been appreciated for their role in inflammation and immunity. Following the formation and activation of multiprotein complexes, termed inflammasomes, two cytokines, IL-1β and IL-18, along with the DAMP High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1), are released from cells. Although these proteins all lack classical secretion signals and are released by inflammasome activation, they each lead to different downstream consequences. This review examines how various inflammasomes promote the release of IL-1β, IL-18 and HMGB1 to combat pathogenic situations. Each of these effector molecules plays distinct roles during sterile inflammation, responding to viral, bacterial and parasite infection, and tailoring the innate immune response to specific threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Keyel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Biology Rm 108, Box 43131, Lubbock, TX 79409-3131, United States.
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34
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Vaccination with Toxoplasma lysate antigen and CpG oligodeoxynucleotides: comparison of immune responses in intranasal versus intramuscular administrations. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:2277-84. [PMID: 24728558 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3882-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is one of the most successful intracellular protozoan parasites on earth and highly prevalent in most warm-blooded vertebrates. There are no drugs that target the chronic cyst stage of this infection; therefore, development of an effective vaccine would be an important advance in disease control. Oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) which contain immunostimulatory CG motifs (CpG ODN) can promote T-helper 1 (Th1) responses, an adjuvant activity that is desirable for vaccination against intracellular pathogen. In this study, we compare the immune responses of Toxoplasma susceptible C57BL/6 mice following intranasal and intramuscular vaccination with Toxoplasma lysate antigen (TLA) with or without CpG ODN as adjuvant. Immunized and control non-immunized mice were challenged with 85 cyst of the moderately virulent Beverley strain of T. gondii. Intranasal vaccination gave significantly a higher protection compared to other groups as indicated by prolonged survival and significantly reduced brain cyst burden (P < 0.01). Intranasal vaccination stimulated cellular immunity towards Th1 response characterized by significant INF-γ production (P < 0.01). Furthermore, fecal IgA antibody levels as an indicator of mucosal immune responses were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in intranasal vaccinated group before the challenge compared to all other groups. Intranasal vaccination was not able to upgrade the Th1 humoral arm. In contrast, intramuscular vaccination enhanced humoral immunity towards a type Th1 pattern characterized by a significant increase of specific IgG and Ig2a. Our results suggest that intranasal administration of CpG/TLA would provide a stable, pronounced, and effective vaccine against toxoplasmosis through stimulation of Th1 cellular immunity and mucosal IgA.
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Abstract
Induction of immunity that limits Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice is critically dependent on the activation of the innate immune response. In this study, we investigated the role of cytoplasmic nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing a pyrin domain (NLRP) inflammasome sensors during acute toxoplasmosis in mice. We show that in vitro Toxoplasma infection of murine bone marrow-derived macrophages activates the NLRP3 inflammasome, resulting in the rapid production and cleavage of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), with no measurable cleavage of IL-18 and no pyroptosis. Paradoxically, Toxoplasma-infected mice produced large quantities of IL-18 but had no measurable IL-1β in their serum. Infection of mice deficient in NLRP3, caspase-1/11, IL-1R, or the inflammasome adaptor protein ASC led to decreased levels of circulating IL-18, increased parasite replication, and death. Interestingly, mice deficient in NLRP1 also displayed increased parasite loads and acute mortality. Using mice deficient in IL-18 and IL-18R, we show that this cytokine plays an important role in limiting parasite replication to promote murine survival. Our findings reveal T. gondii as a novel activator of the NLRP1 and NLRP3 inflammasomes in vivo and establish a role for these sensors in host resistance to toxoplasmosis. Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes that are a major component of the innate immune system. They contain “sensor” proteins that are responsible for detecting various microbial and environmental danger signals and function by activating caspase-1, an enzyme that mediates cleavage and release of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18. Toxoplasma gondii is a highly successful protozoan parasite capable of infecting a wide range of host species that have variable levels of resistance. We report here that T. gondii is a novel activator of the NLRP1 and NLRP3 inflammasomes in vivo and establish a role for these sensors in host resistance to toxoplasmosis. Using mice deficient in IL-18 and IL-18R, we show that the IL-18 cytokine plays a pivotal role by limiting parasite replication to promote murine survival.
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Wiehagen KR, Corbo-Rodgers E, Li S, Staub ES, Hunter CA, Morrisey EE, Maltzman JS. Foxp4 is dispensable for T cell development, but required for robust recall responses. PLoS One 2012; 7:e42273. [PMID: 22912696 PMCID: PMC3418275 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0042273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors regulate T cell fates at every stage of development and differentiation. Members of the Foxp family of forkhead transcription factors are essential for normal T lineage development; Foxp3 is required for T regulatory cell generation and function, and Foxp1 is necessary for generation and maintenance of naïve T cells. Foxp4, an additional member of the Foxp family, is highly homologous to Foxp1 and has been shown to dimerize with other Foxp proteins. We report the initial characterization of Foxp4 in T lymphocytes. Foxp4 is expressed in both thymocytes and peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. We used a CD4Cre mediated approach to evaluate the cell autonomous role for Foxp4 in murine T lymphocytes. T cell development, peripheral cellularity and cell surface phenotype are normal in the absence of Foxp4. Furthermore, Foxp3+ T regulatory cells develop normally in Foxp4 deficient animals and naïve Foxp4 deficient CD4 T cells can differentiate to inducible T regulatory cells in vitro. In wild-type T cells, expression of Foxp4 increases following activation, but deletion of Foxp4 does not affect T cell proliferative responses or in vitro effector T cell differentiation. In vivo, despite effective control of Toxoplasma gondii and acute lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infections, effector cytokine production during antigen specific recall responses are reduced in the absence of Foxp4. We conclude that Foxp4 is dispensable for T cell development, but necessary for normal T cell cytokine recall responses to antigen following pathogenic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla R. Wiehagen
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Evann Corbo-Rodgers
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Shanru Li
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth S. Staub
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Christopher A. Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Edward E. Morrisey
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jonathan S. Maltzman
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Choudhry N, Petry F, van Rooijen N, McDonald V. A protective role for interleukin 18 in interferon γ-mediated innate immunity to Cryptosporidium parvum that is independent of natural killer cells. J Infect Dis 2012; 206:117-24. [PMID: 22517912 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jis300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity against some intracellular parasitic protozoa involves interleukin 18 (IL-18)-mediated interferon γ (IFN-γ) production by natural killer (NK) cells, but the role of IL-18 in innate resistance to Cryptosporidium infection is unknown. Adult Rag2(-/-)γc(-/-) mice that lack NK cells, T cells, and B cells demonstrated resistance to Cryptosporidium parvum infection that was IFN-γ dependent. Treatment with anti-IL-18-neutralizing antibodies resulted in loss of resistance correlating with reduced intestinal IFN-γ expression. Intestinal mature IL-18 expression increased in vivo during infection and also in the intestinal epithelial cell line CMT-93 following combined IFN-γ treatment/infection. Peritoneal macrophages produced IFN-γ when stimulated with IL-18 combined with interleukin 12, and the latter was expressed in vivo during infection. Macrophage depletion in infected mice caused a rapid growth of infection with no increase in IFN-γ expression. These findings provide evidence of an NK cell-independent, IFN-γ-mediated innate immune pathway against C. parvum in which IL-18 and macrophages play prominent parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naheed Choudhry
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Blizard Institute of Cell and Molecular Science, Centre for Digestive Diseases, Queen Mary College University of London, United Kingdom
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Innate responses to Toxoplasma gondii in mice and humans. Trends Parasitol 2011; 27:388-93. [PMID: 21550851 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2011.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2011] [Revised: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 03/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary infection with Toxoplasma gondii stimulates production of high levels of interleukin 12 (IL-12) and interferon γ (IFN-γ) by cells of the innate immune system. These two cytokines are central to resistance to T. gondii. Signaling through the Toll-like receptor (TLR) adaptor protein MyD88 is indispensible for activating early innate immune responses. Recent studies have established that TLR11 plays a dominant role in sensing T. gondii. At the same time, TLR11 is represented in humans only by a pseudogene, and the major question of how innate and adaptive immune responses occur in the absence of TLR11 remains unanswered. In this article, similarities and differences in sensors and effector molecules that determine host resistance to the parasite in humans and mice are discussed.
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Melo MB, Jensen KDC, Saeij JPJ. Toxoplasma gondii effectors are master regulators of the inflammatory response. Trends Parasitol 2011; 27:487-95. [PMID: 21893432 PMCID: PMC3200456 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2011.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Revised: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 08/04/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma is a highly successful parasite that establishes a life-long chronic infection. To do this, it must carefully regulate immune activation and host cell effector mechanisms. Here we review the latest developments in our understanding of how Toxoplasma counteracts the immune response of the host, and in some cases provokes it, through the use of specific parasite effector proteins. An emerging theme from these discoveries is that Toxoplasma effectors are master regulators of the pro-inflammatory response, which elicits many of the toxoplasmacidal mechanisms of the host. We speculate that combinations of these effectors present in certain Toxoplasma strains work to maintain an optimal parasite burden in different hosts to ensure parasite transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariane B Melo
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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The protective effect of a Toxoplasma gondii SAG1 plasmid DNA vaccine in mice is enhanced with IL-18. Res Vet Sci 2010; 89:93-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2010.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2008] [Revised: 12/20/2009] [Accepted: 01/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Ju CH, Chockalingam A, Leifer CA. Early response of mucosal epithelial cells during Toxoplasma gondii infection. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 183:7420-7. [PMID: 19917706 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0900640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The innate immune response of mucosal epithelial cells during pathogen invasion plays a central role in immune regulation in the gut. Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan intracellular parasite that is usually transmitted through oral infection. Although much of the information on immunity to T. gondii has come from i.p. infection models, more recent studies have revealed the importance of studying immunity following infection through the natural peroral route. Oral infection studies have identified many of the key players in the intestinal response; however, they have relied on responses detected days to weeks following infection. Much less is known about how the gut epithelial layer senses and reacts during initial contact with the pathogen. Given the importance of epithelial cells during pathogen invasion, this study uses an in vitro approach to isolate the key players and examine the early response of intestinal epithelial cells during infection by T. gondii. We show that human intestinal epithelial cells infected with T. gondii elicit rapid MAPK phosphorylation, NF-kappaB nuclear translocation, and secretion of IL-8. Both ERK1/2 activation and IL-8 secretion responses were shown to be MyD88 dependent and TLR2 was identified to be involved in the recognition of the parasite regardless of the parasite genotype. Furthermore, we were able to identify additional T. gondii-regulated genes in the infected cells using a pathway-focused array. Together, our findings suggest that intestinal epithelial cells were able to recognize T. gondii during infection, and the outcome is important for modulating intestinal immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Hsin Ju
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Toxoplasma gondii cyclophilin 18-mediated production of nitric oxide induces Bradyzoite conversion in a CCR5-dependent manner. Infect Immun 2009; 77:3686-95. [PMID: 19564392 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00361-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii modulates pro- and anti-inflammatory responses to regulate parasite multiplication and host survival. Pressure from the immune response causes the conversion of tachyzoites into slowly dividing bradyzoites. The regulatory mechanisms involved in this switch are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the immunomodulatory role of T. gondii cyclophilin 18 (TgCyp18) in macrophages and the consequences of the cellular responses on the conversion machinery. Recombinant TgCyp18 induced the production of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and tumor necrosis factor alpha through its binding with cysteine-cysteine chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) and the production of gamma interferon and IL-6 in a CCR5-independent manner. Interestingly, the treatment of macrophages with TgCyp18 resulted in the inhibition of parasite growth and an enhancement of the conversion into bradyzoites via NO in a CCR5-dependent manner. In conclusion, T. gondii possesses sophisticated mechanisms to manipulate host cell responses in a TgCyp18-mediated process.
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Blader IJ, Saeij JP. Communication between Toxoplasma gondii and its host: impact on parasite growth, development, immune evasion, and virulence. APMIS 2009; 117:458-76. [PMID: 19400868 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0463.2009.02453.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that can infect most warm-blooded animals and cause severe and life-threatening disease in developing fetuses and in immune-compromised patients. Although Toxoplasma was discovered over 100 years ago, we are only now beginning to appreciate the importance of the role that parasite modulation of its host has on parasite growth, bradyzoite development, immune evasion, and virulence. The goal of this review is to highlight these findings, to develop an integrated model for communication between Toxoplasma and its host, and to discuss new questions that arise out of these studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira J Blader
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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Gotsch F, Romero R, Chaiworapongsa T, Erez O, Vaisbuch E, Espinoza J, Kusanovic JP, Mittal P, Mazaki-Tovi S, Kim CJ, Kim JS, Edwin S, Nhan-Chang CL, Hamill N, Friel L, Than NG, Mazor M, Yoon BH, Hassan SS. Evidence of the involvement of caspase-1 under physiologic and pathologic cellular stress during human pregnancy: a link between the inflammasome and parturition. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2009; 21:605-16. [PMID: 18828051 DOI: 10.1080/14767050802212109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Caspase-1 is a component of the NALP3 inflammasome, a cytosolic multiprotein complex that mediates the processing of pro-inflammatory caspases and cytokines. The inflammasome represents the first line of defense against cellular stress and is a crucial component of innate immunity. Caspase-1 is the enzyme responsible for the cleavage and activation of interleukin (IL)-1 beta, which is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine, and plays a central role in the mechanisms leading to labor (preterm and term) particularly in the context of intrauterine infection/inflammation. In addition, caspase-1 cleaves IL-18 and IL-33. The objectives of this study were to determine whether there is a relationship between amniotic fluid concentrations of caspase-1 and gestational age, parturition (term and preterm), and intra-amniotic infection/inflammation (IAI). STUDY DESIGN A cross-sectional study was conducted including 143 pregnant women in the following groups: (1) mid-trimester of pregnancy (n = 18); (2) term not in labor (n = 25); (3) term in labor (n = 28); (4) preterm labor (PTL) who delivered at term (n = 23); (5) PTL without IAI who delivered preterm (n = 32); (6) PTL with IAI who delivered preterm neonates (n = 17). Caspase-1 concentrations in amniotic fluid were determined by a specific and sensitive immunoassay. Non-parametric statistics were used for analysis. RESULTS (1) Caspase-1 was detected in amniotic fluid of women at term, but in none of the mid-trimester samples. (2) Patients in labor at term had a significantly higher median amniotic fluid concentration of caspase-1 than women at term not in labor (term in labor: 10.5 pg/mL, range 0.0-666.0 vs. term not in labor: 5.99 pg/mL, range 0.0-237.4; p < 0.05). (3) Among patients with spontaneous PTL, those with IAI (median 41.4 pg/mL, range 0.0-515.0) had a significantly higher median amniotic fluid caspase-1 concentration than those without IAI who delivered preterm (median 0.0 pg/mL, range 0.0-78.4) and than those who delivered at term (median 0.0 pg/mL, range 0.0-199.5); p < 0.001 for both comparisons. CONCLUSIONS (1) The presence and concentration of caspase-1 in the amniotic fluid varies as a function of gestational age. (2) Women with spontaneous labor at term had a higher median caspase-1 amniotic fluid concentration than women at term without labor. This suggests that the inflammasome may be activated in spontaneous parturition at term. Since most women with labor do not have intra-amniotic infection, we propose that cellular stress during labor accounts for activation of the inflammasome. (3) Preterm labor associated with infection/inflammation was also associated with a high concentration of caspase-1, suggesting that infection may induce caspase-1 production and activation of the inflammasome. (4) The sequential activation of the inflammasome and caspase-1, leading to interleukin-1 beta processing and secretion, is a candidate pathway leading to the activation of the common pathway of parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gotsch
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Sweeney E, Campbell M, Watkins K, Hunter CA, Jacenko O. Altered endochondral ossification in collagen X mouse models leads to impaired immune responses. Dev Dyn 2008; 237:2693-704. [PMID: 18629872 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.21594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Disruption of collagen X function in hypertrophic cartilage undergoing endochondral ossification was previously linked to altered hematopoiesis in collagen X transgenic (Tg) and null (KO) mice (Jacenko et al., [2002] Am J Pathol 160:2019-2034). Mice displayed altered growth plates, diminished trabecular bone, and marrow hypoplasia with an aberrant lymphocyte profile throughout life. This study identifies altered B220+, CD4+, and CD8+ lymphocyte numbers, as well as CD4+/fox3P+ T regulatory cells in the collagen X mice. Additionally, diminished in vitro splenocyte responses to mitogens and an inability of mice to survive a challenge with Toxoplasma gondii, confirm impaired immune responses. In concert, ELISA and protein arrays identify aberrant levels of inflammatory, chemo-attractant, and matrix binding cytokines in collagen X mouse sera. These data link the disruption of collagen X function in the chondro-osseous junction to an altered hematopoietic stem cell niche in the marrow, resulting in impaired immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Sweeney
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6046, USA
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Resende MG, Fux B, Caetano BC, Mendes EA, Silva NM, Ferreira AM, Melo MN, Vitor RWA, Gazzinelli RT. The role of MHC haplotypes H2d/H2b in mouse resistance/susceptibility to cyst formation is influenced by the lineage of infective Toxoplasma gondii strain. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2008; 80:85-99. [PMID: 18345378 DOI: 10.1590/s0001-37652008000100005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2007] [Accepted: 01/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii strains displaying the Type I/III genotype are associated with acquired ocular toxoplasmosis in humans. Here, we used a mice model to characterize some immunological mechanisms involved in host resistance to infection with such strains. We have chosen the Type I/III strains D8, G2 and P-Br, which cause a chronic infection in mice that resembles human toxoplamosis. Mice deficient of molecules MyD88, IFN-gamma, and IL-12 were susceptible to all three parasite strains. This finding indicates the importance of innate mechanisms in controlling infection. On the other hand, MHC haplotype did not influenced resistance/susceptibility; since mice lineages displaying a same genetic background but different MHC haplotypes (H2b or H2d) developed similar mortality and cyst numbers after infection with those strains. In contrast, the C57BL/6 genetic background, and not MHC haplotype, was critical for development of intestinal inflammation caused by any of the studied strains. Finally, regarding effector mechanisms, we observed that B and CD8+ T lymphocytes controlled survival,whereas the inducible nitric oxide synthase influenced cyst numbers in brains of mice infected with Type I/III strains. These findings are relevant to further understanding of the immunologic mechanisms involved in host protection and pathogenesis during infection with T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne G Resende
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Instituto René Rachou, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Interleukin-18 enhances a Th2 biased response and susceptibility to Leishmania mexicana in BALB/c mice. Microbes Infect 2008; 10:834-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2008.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2008] [Revised: 03/20/2008] [Accepted: 03/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Ehigiator HN, McNair N, Mead JR. Cryptosporidium parvum: The contribution of Th1-inducing pathways to the resolution of infection in mice. Exp Parasitol 2007; 115:107-13. [PMID: 16920103 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2006.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2006] [Revised: 06/14/2006] [Accepted: 07/05/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The contribution of cytokines IL-12, IL-18, IL-23, and IFN-gamma, and Stat1 signaling molecules involved in Th1 responses associated with host resistance to Cryptosporidium parvum infection was investigated in adult IL-12p40(-/-)mice. Host resistance to C. parvum infection was assessed in different mouse strains lacking IL-12, IL-18, and IL-23 genes. We found that as in IL-12p40(-/-) mice (which lack both IL-12 and IL-23), IL-12p35(-/-) mice (which lack IL-12) and IL-18 deficient mice were also susceptible to infection with C. parvum. Varied levels of resistance were observed when mice were treated with cytokines like IL-18, IL-23 and IFN-gamma. Mice treated with IL-12, as expected, were completely resistant to infection until day 5 post infection, and had significantly decreased (85%) parasite loads at peak infection (day 7), whereas rIL-23 had a lesser effect, decreasing parasite load by approximately 45%. Interestingly, IL-18 appears to play a significant role in initial immune response, even in the absence of IL-12, since treatment with IL-18 in IL-12p40(-/-) knockout mice decreased parasite load by approximately 70%. In addition, the establishment of C. parvum infection in mice lacking the Stat1 gene demonstrated the involvement of this pathway in resolution of infection. These observations indicate a strong requirement for Th1 response in the development of immunity to C. parvum in the adult IL-12p40(-/-) mice, information that will be essential to further investigate the immune responses during infections and in the development of potential vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humphrey N Ehigiator
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Medical Research 151, 1670 Clairmont Road, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
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McDonald V, Pollok RCG, Dhaliwal W, Naik S, Farthing MJG, Bajaj-Elliott M. A potential role for interleukin-18 in inhibition of the development of Cryptosporidium parvum. Clin Exp Immunol 2006; 145:555-62. [PMID: 16907926 PMCID: PMC1809716 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2006.03159.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) constitutively express the immunoregulatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-18. IECs also serve as the host cell for the intracellular parasitic protozoan Cryptosporidium parvum. In the present study, C. parvum infection of a human enterocyte cell-line HCT-8 resulted in increased expression of IL-18 mRNA as measured by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). IL-18 protein was detected in control uninfected cells and following infection there was increased expression as measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Gene expression revealed the presence of the IL-18 receptor subunits not only in cell-lines but also in freshly isolated IECs, suggesting that IL-18-mediated signalling events may contribute to epithelial host defence during infection. Recombinant IL-18 inhibited intracellular development of the parasite in HCT-8 and HT-29 cells. Increased expression of bactericidal antibiotic peptides LL-37 and alpha-defensin 2 by IL-18 in HCT-8 and HT-29 cells may represent one mode of action by which this pluripotent cytokine aids in limiting the development of intracellular pathogens such as C. parvum in the gastrointestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- V McDonald
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Cell and Molecular Science, Centre for Gastroenterology, London, UK
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Knight BC, Kissane S, Falciani F, Salmon M, Stanford MR, Wallace GR. Expression analysis of immune response genes of Müller cells infected with Toxoplasma gondii. J Neuroimmunol 2006; 179:126-31. [PMID: 16934877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2006.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2006] [Revised: 06/02/2006] [Accepted: 06/05/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate changes in immune response genes following Toxoplasma gondii infection of Müller cells. METHODS Human Müller cells were infected or mock infected with two strains of T. gondii (RH and Prugniaud). RNA and supernatants were collected from infected and uninfected cells at 2 and 24 h. RNA from the two time points were compared using a custom made DNA microarray. Real time PCR or human cytokine antibody array was used to confirm up-regulation of immune molecules. RESULTS Gene expression in infected cells showed up-regulation of CCL2, IL-6, CXCL8, and CXCL2. CCL2 and CXCL2 gene expression was confirmed by real time PCR. IL-6 and CXCL8 protein production was confirmed by a cytokine antibody array. IL-4 production was observed by cytokine antibody array but not by DNA microarray. In contrast, infection with T. gondii did not induce interferon-gamma (IFNgamma) and IL-12 expression, molecules conventionally associated with the inter-conversion of tachyzoite to bradyzoite. CONCLUSION These results indicate that while in vitro infected Müller cells may be capable of inducing an immune response by attracting blood-borne leucocytes, they do not appear able to directly control the proliferation of T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- B C Knight
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rayne Institute, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
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