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Gutiérrez-Iñiguez C, Cervantes-Rodríguez P, González-Hernández LA, Andrade-Villanueva JF, Gutiérrez-Silerio GY, Peña Rodríguez M, Rubio-Sánchez AX, García-Castillo E, Marín-Contreras ME, Del Toro-Arreola S, Bueno-Topete MR, Vega-Magaña N. Unraveling the non-fitness status of NK cells: Examining the NKp30 receptor and its isoforms distribution in HIV/HCV coinfected patients. Mol Immunol 2024; 172:9-16. [PMID: 38850777 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2024.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV/HCV coinfection is associated with a rapid progression to liver damage. Specifically, NK cell population dysregulation is of particular interest, as these cells have been shown to block HCV replication effectively and have an anti-fibrogenic activity. The NKp30 receptor is linked to tumor cell lysis and has a crucial role during viral infections. In the present study, we determined the subpopulations of NK cells based on CD56 and CD16 expression, NKp30 receptor expression, its isoforms A, B, and C, along with the cytotoxicity molecules in patients with HIV/HCV. RESULTS evidenced by the APRI and FIB-4 indices, the HCV-infected patients presented greater liver damage than the HIV and HIV/HCV groups. The HCV group presented a decreased expression of NKp30 isoform A, and NK cell frequency was not different between groups; however, CD56brigth subpopulation, NKp30 receptor, and CD247 adaptor chain were decreased in HIV/HCV patients; further, we described increased levels of soluble IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-23 in the serum of HIV/HCV patients. CONCLUSIONS HCV and HIV/HCV patients have multiple parameters of non-fitness status in NK cells; awareness of these dysfunctional immunological parameters in HIV/HCV and HCV patients can elucidate possible novel therapeutics directed towards the improvement of NK cell fitness status, in order to improve their function against liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Gutiérrez-Iñiguez
- Maestría en Microbiología Médica, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44340, Mexico
| | - Paulina Cervantes-Rodríguez
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingeniería, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44430, Mexico
| | - Luz Alicia González-Hernández
- Unidad de VIH del Antiguo Hospital Civil "Fray Antonio Alcalde", Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44200, Mexico; Instituto de Investigación en Inmunodeficiencias y VIH (InIVIH), CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44200, Mexico
| | | | - Gloria Yareli Gutiérrez-Silerio
- Laboratorio de endocrinología y nutrición, Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro CP.76140, Mexico
| | - Marcela Peña Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Diagnóstico de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes (LaDEER), CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44340, Mexico
| | - Alina Xcaret Rubio-Sánchez
- Maestría en Microbiología Médica, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44340, Mexico
| | - Estefania García-Castillo
- Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44340, Mexico
| | - María Eugenia Marín-Contreras
- Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44340, Mexico
| | - Susana Del Toro-Arreola
- Instituto de Investigación en Enfermedades Crónico Degenerativas (IECD), CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44340, Mexico
| | - Miriam Ruth Bueno-Topete
- Instituto de Investigación en Enfermedades Crónico Degenerativas (IECD), CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44340, Mexico
| | - Natali Vega-Magaña
- Laboratorio de Diagnóstico de Enfermedades Emergentes y Reemergentes (LaDEER), CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP.44340, Mexico; Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas (IICB), CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Mexico.
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Letafati A, Ardekani OS, Naderisemiromi M, Norouzi M, Shafiei M, Nik S, Mozhgani SH. Unraveling the dynamic mechanisms of natural killer cells in viral infections: insights and implications. Virol J 2024; 21:18. [PMID: 38216935 PMCID: PMC10785350 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02287-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Viruses pose a constant threat to human well-being, necessitating the immune system to develop robust defenses. Natural killer (NK) cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system, have become recognized as vital participants in protecting the body against viral infections. These remarkable innate immune cells possess the unique ability to directly recognize and eliminate infected cells, thereby contributing to the early control and containment of viral pathogens. However, recent research has uncovered an intriguing phenomenon: the alteration of NK cells during viral infections. In addition to their well-established role in antiviral defense, NK cells undergo dynamic changes in their phenotype, function, and regulatory mechanisms upon encountering viral pathogens. These alterations can significantly impact the effectiveness of NK cell responses during viral infections. This review explores the multifaceted role of NK cells in antiviral immunity, highlighting their conventional effector functions as well as the emerging concept of NK cell alteration in the context of viral infections. Understanding the intricate interplay between NK cells and viral infections is crucial for advancing our knowledge of antiviral immune responses and could offer valuable information for the creation of innovative therapeutic approaches to combat viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Letafati
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Salahi Ardekani
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Naderisemiromi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mehdi Norouzi
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Soheil Nik
- School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Alborz, Iran
| | - Sayed-Hamidreza Mozhgani
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
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Razizadeh MH, Zafarani A, Taghavi-Farahabadi M, Khorramdelazad H, Minaeian S, Mahmoudi M. Natural killer cells and their exosomes in viral infections and related therapeutic approaches: where are we? Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:261. [PMID: 37749597 PMCID: PMC10519079 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01266-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity is the first line of the host immune system to fight against infections. Natural killer cells are the innate immunity lymphocytes responsible for fighting against virus-infected and cancerous cells. They have various mechanisms to suppress viral infections. On the other hand, viruses have evolved to utilize different ways to evade NK cell-mediated responses. Viruses can balance the response by regulating the cytokine release pattern and changing the proportion of activating and inhibitory receptors on the surface of NK cells. Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles that are involved in intercellular communication. Most cell populations can release these nano-sized vesicles, and it was shown that these vesicles produce identical outcomes to the originating cell from which they are released. In recent years, the role of NK cell-derived exosomes in various diseases including viral infections has been highlighted, drawing attention to utilizing the therapeutic potential of these nanoparticles. In this article, the role of NK cells in various viral infections and the mechanisms used by viruses to evade these important immune system cells are initially examined. Subsequently, the role of NK cell exosomes in controlling various viral infections is discussed. Finally, the current position of these cells in the treatment of viral infections and the therapeutic potential of their exosomes are reviewed. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Razizadeh
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Zafarani
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Taghavi-Farahabadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Sara Minaeian
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Mahmoudi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Galectin-9 and Interferon-Gamma Are Released by Natural Killer Cells upon Activation with Interferon-Alpha and Orchestrate the Suppression of Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Viruses 2022; 14:v14071538. [PMID: 35891518 PMCID: PMC9317111 DOI: 10.3390/v14071538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells mount an immune response against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and can be activated by several cytokines, including interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-15, and interferon-alpha (IFN-α). By exploiting the Huh7.5 hepatoma cell line infected with the HCV JFH1 genome, we provide novel insights into the antiviral effector functions of human primary NK cells after cytokine stimulation. NK cells activated with IFN-α (IFNα-NKs) had enhanced contact-dependent and -independent responses as compared with NK cells activated with IL-2/IL-15 (IL2/IL15-NKs) and could inhibit HCV replication both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, IFN-α, but not IL-2/IL-15, protected NK cells from the functional inhibition exerted by HCV. By performing flow cytometry, multiplex cytokine profiling, and mass-spectrometry-based proteomics, we discovered that IFNα-NKs secreted high levels of galectin-9 and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and by conducting neutralization assays, we confirmed the major role of these molecules in HCV suppression. We speculated that galectin-9 might act extracellularly to inhibit HCV binding to host cells and downstream infection. In silico approaches predicted the binding of HCV envelope protein E2 to galectin-9 carbohydrate-recognition domains, and co-immunoprecipitation assays confirmed physical interaction. IFN-γ, on the other hand, triggered the intracellular expressions of two antiviral gate-keepers in target cells, namely, myxovirus-1 (MX1) and interferon-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 1 (IFIT1). Collectively, our data add more complexity to the antiviral innate response mediated by NK cells and highlight galectin-9 as a key molecule that might be exploited to neutralize productive viral infection.
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Zaki MYW, Fathi AM, Samir S, Eldafashi N, William KY, Nazmy MH, Fathy M, Gill US, Shetty S. Innate and Adaptive Immunopathogeneses in Viral Hepatitis; Crucial Determinants of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1255. [PMID: 35267563 PMCID: PMC8909759 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) infections remain the most common risk factors for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and their heterogeneous distribution influences the global prevalence of this common type of liver cancer. Typical hepatitis infection elicits various immune responses within the liver microenvironment, and viral persistence induces chronic liver inflammation and carcinogenesis. HBV is directly mutagenic but can also cause low-grade liver inflammation characterized by episodes of intermittent high-grade liver inflammation, liver fibrosis, and cirrhosis, which can progress to decompensated liver disease and HCC. Equally, the absence of key innate and adaptive immune responses in chronic HCV infection dampens viral eradication and induces an exhausted and immunosuppressive liver niche that favors HCC development and progression. The objectives of this review are to (i) discuss the epidemiological pattern of HBV and HCV infections, (ii) understand the host immune response to acute and chronic viral hepatitis, and (iii) explore the link between this diseased immune environment and the development and progression of HCC in preclinical models and HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Y. W. Zaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
- National Institute for Health Research Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit and Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ahmed M. Fathi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Samara Samir
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sohag University, Sohag 82524, Egypt;
| | - Nardeen Eldafashi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Kerolis Y. William
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 12613, Egypt;
| | - Maiiada Hassan Nazmy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Moustafa Fathy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia 61732, Egypt; (A.M.F.); (N.E.); (M.H.N.); (M.F.)
| | - Upkar S. Gill
- Barts Liver Centre, Centre for Immunobiology, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, QMUL, London E1 2AT, UK;
| | - Shishir Shetty
- National Institute for Health Research Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit and Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in innate immune responses to viral infections. Here, we review recent insights into the role of NK cells in viral infections, with particular emphasis on human studies. We first discuss NK cells in the context of acute viral infections, with flavivirus and influenza virus infections as examples. Questions related to activation of NK cells, homing to infected tissues and the role of tissue-resident NK cells in acute viral infections are also addressed. Next, we discuss NK cells in the context of chronic viral infections with hepatitis C virus and HIV-1. Also covered is the role of adaptive-like NK cell expansions as well as the appearance of CD56- NK cells in the course of chronic infection. Specific emphasis is then placed in viral infections in patients with primary immunodeficiencies affecting NK cells. Not least, studies in this area have revealed an important role for NK cells in controlling several herpesvirus infections. Finally, we address new data with respect to the activation of NK cells and NK cell function in humans infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) giving rise to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas K Björkström
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Benedikt Strunz
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hans-Gustaf Ljunggren
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Hassona MM, Radwan EM, Abdelsameea E, Estaphan S, Abd Elrhman HE, Abdel-Samiee M, Naguib M. The Putative Role of Natural Killer Cells in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2021; 22:2559-2567. [PMID: 34452571 PMCID: PMC8629465 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2021.22.8.2559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural Killer (NK) cells have crucial roles in immune responses against malignant transformation including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The NKG2D receptor has a critical role in the NK recognition of target cells. AIM We assessed NKG2D receptor expression as a diagnostic biomarker for HCC detection and progression in Egyptian patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related HCC. METHODS We classified 81 patients into three groups: chronic hepatitis (21), cirrhotic (30) and HCC (30) patients, with 36 individuals enrolled to the control group. We analyzed NK levels in peripheral blood and NKG2D receptor expression in NK cells using flow cytometry. RESULTS We observed a significant decrease in NKG2D (CD314) expression on circulating NK cells and frequency of NK cells expressing NKG2D (CD314) in HCC patients. Also, in patients, larger foci lesions significantly correlated with decreased NK cell numbers. Multiple foci numbers and patients with a Child score C significantly correlated with decreased circulating NK cells expressing NKG2D and decreased NKG2D expression. CONCLUSION The percentage of NK cells in peripheral blood and NKG2D receptor expression could function as potential biomarkers for HCC detection and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona M Hassona
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebeen El-Kom, Egypt.
| | - Enas M Radwan
- Department of Clinical Pathology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Eman Abdelsameea
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebeen El-Kom, Egypt.
| | - Suzanne Estaphan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Heba E Abd Elrhman
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Abdel-Samiee
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebeen El-Kom, Egypt.
| | - Mary Naguib
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebeen El-Kom, Egypt.
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Tarannum H, Chauhan B, Samadder A, Roy H, Nandi S. To Explore the Potential Targets and Current Structure-based Design Strategies Utilizing Co-crystallized Ligand to Combat HCV. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 22:590-604. [PMID: 32720601 DOI: 10.2174/1389450121999200727215020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) belongs to the Hepacivirus family. HCV has been designated as a very dreadful virus as it can attack the liver, causing inflammation and even may lead to cancer in chronic conditions. It was estimated that 71 million people around the world have chronic HCV infection. World Health Organization (WHO) reported that about 399000 people died because of chronic cirrhosis and liver cancer globally. In spite of the abundance of availability of drugs for the treatment of HCV, however, the issue of drug resistance surpasses all the possibilities of therapeutic management of HCV. Therefore, to address this issue of 'drug-resistance', various HCV targets were explored to quest the evaluation of the mechanism of the disease progression. METHODS An attempt has been made in the present study to explore the various targets of HCV involved in the mechanism(s) of the disease initiation and progression and to focus on the mode of binding of ligands, which are co-crystallized at the active cavity of different HCV targets. CONCLUSION The present study could predict some crucial features of these ligands, which possibly interacted with various amino acid residues responsible for their biological activity and molecular signaling pathway(s). Such binding mode may be considered as a template for the high throughput screening and designing of active congeneric ligands to combat HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heena Tarannum
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Global Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Affiliated to Uttarakhand Technical University), Kashipur-244713, India
| | - Bhumika Chauhan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Global Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Affiliated to Uttarakhand Technical University), Kashipur-244713, India
| | - Asmita Samadder
- Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Lab., Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, 741235, India
| | - Harekrishna Roy
- Nirmala College of Pharmacy, Mangalagiri, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, 522503, India
| | - Sisir Nandi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Global Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Affiliated to Uttarakhand Technical University), Kashipur-244713, India
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Rosen HR, Golden-Mason L. Control of HCV Infection by Natural Killer Cells and Macrophages. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:a037101. [PMID: 31871225 PMCID: PMC7447067 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a037101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Host defense against invading pathogens within the liver is dominated by innate immunity. Natural killer (NK) cells have been implicated at all stages of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, from providing innate protection to contributing to treatment-induced clearance. Decreased NK cell levels, altered NK cell subset distribution, activation marker expression, and functional polarization toward a cytolytic phenotype are hallmarks of chronic HCV infection. Interferon α (IFN-α) is a potent activator of NK cells; therefore, it is not surprising that NK cell activation has been identified as a key factor associated with sustained virological response (SVR) to IFN-α-based therapies. Understanding the role of NK cells, macrophages, and other innate immune cells post-SVR remains paramount for prevention of disease pathogenesis and progression. Novel strategies to treat liver disease may be aimed at targeting these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo R Rosen
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
- USC Research Center for Liver Diseases, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Lucy Golden-Mason
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
- USC Research Center for Liver Diseases, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
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Njiomegnie GF, Read SA, Fewings N, George J, McKay F, Ahlenstiel G. Immunomodulation of the Natural Killer Cell Phenotype and Response during HCV Infection. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041030. [PMID: 32268490 PMCID: PMC7230811 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection develops into chronic hepatitis in over two-thirds of acute infections. While current treatments with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) achieve HCV eradication in >95% of cases, no vaccine is available and re-infection can readily occur. Natural killer (NK) cells represent a key cellular component of the innate immune system, participating in early defence against infectious diseases, viruses, and cancers. When acute infection becomes chronic, however, NK cell function is altered. This has been well studied in the context of HCV, where changes in frequency and distribution of NK cell populations have been reported. While activating receptors are downregulated on NK cells in both acute and chronic infection, NK cell inhibiting receptors are upregulated in chronic HCV infection, leading to altered NK cell responsiveness. Furthermore, chronic activation of NK cells following HCV infection contributes to liver inflammation and disease progression through enhanced cytotoxicity. Consequently, the NK immune response is a double-edged sword that is a significant component of the innate immune antiviral response, but persistent activation can drive tissue damage during chronic infection. This review will summarise the role of NK cells in HCV infection, and the changes that occur during HCV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaitan Fabrice Njiomegnie
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Scott A. Read
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicole Fewings
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Fiona McKay
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Golo Ahlenstiel
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-9851-6073
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Frutoso M, Mortier E. NK Cell Hyporesponsiveness: More Is Not Always Better. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184514. [PMID: 31547251 PMCID: PMC6770168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are a type of cytotoxic lymphocytes that play an important role in the innate immune system. They are of particular interest for their role in elimination of intracellular pathogens, viral infection and tumor cells. As such, numerous strategies are being investigated in order to potentiate their functions. One of these techniques aims at promoting the function of their activating receptors. However, different observations have revealed that providing activation signals could actually be counterproductive and lead to NK cells’ hyporesponsiveness. This phenomenon can occur during the NK cell education process, under pathological conditions, but also after treatment with different agents, including cytokines, that are promising tools to boost NK cell function. In this review, we aim to highlight the different circumstances where NK cells become hyporesponsive and the methods that could be used to restore their functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Frutoso
- CRCINA, CNRS, Inserm, University of Nantes, F-44200 Nantes, France.
- LabEX IGO, Immuno-Onco-Greffe, Nantes, France.
| | - Erwan Mortier
- CRCINA, CNRS, Inserm, University of Nantes, F-44200 Nantes, France.
- LabEX IGO, Immuno-Onco-Greffe, Nantes, France.
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DNAM-1 Activating Receptor and Its Ligands: How Do Viruses Affect the NK Cell-Mediated Immune Surveillance during the Various Phases of Infection? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20153715. [PMID: 31366013 PMCID: PMC6695959 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells play a critical role in host defense against viral infections. The mechanisms of recognition and killing of virus-infected cells mediated by NK cells are still only partially defined. Several viruses induce, on the surface of target cells, the expression of molecules that are specifically recognized by NK cell-activating receptors. The main NK cell-activating receptors involved in the recognition and killing of virus-infected cells are NKG2D and DNAM-1. In particular, ligands for DNAM-1 are nectin/nectin-like molecules involved also in mechanisms allowing viral infection. Viruses adopt several immune evasion strategies, including those affecting NK cell-mediated immune surveillance, causing persistent viral infection and the development of virus-associated diseases. The virus's immune evasion efficacy depends on molecules differently expressed during the various phases of infection. In this review, we overview the molecular strategies adopted by viruses, specifically cytomegalovirus (CMV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1), herpes virus (HSV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), aiming to evade NK cell-mediated surveillance, with a special focus on the modulation of DNAM-1 activating receptor and its ligands in various phases of the viral life cycle. The increasing understanding of mechanisms involved in the modulation of activating ligands, together with those mediating the viral immune evasion strategies, would provide critical tools leading to design novel NK cell-based immunotherapies aiming at viral infection control, thus improving cure strategies of virus-associated diseases.
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13
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Mele D, Pasi A, Cacciatore R, Mantovani S, Oliviero B, Mondelli MU, Varchetta S. Decreased interferon-γ production by NK cells from KIR haplotype B carriers in hepatitis C virus infection. Liver Int 2019; 39:1237-1245. [PMID: 31177636 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Different population genetics studies showed that interactions between killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) and HLA play a role in viral disease outcome, but functional correlates are missing. Building upon our previous work pointing to a regulatory role for KIR3DL1/DS1 in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, we analysed whether its expression may affect natural killer (NK) cell function in the presence or absence of its principal ligand HLA-Bw4 in KIR haplotype A and B carriers, which are characterized by a different representation of activating and inhibitory KIRs. METHODS We performed KIR and HLA class I genotypic analysis in 54 healthy donors (HD) and 50 HCV+ subjects and examined NK cell cytokine secretion and degranulation in the context of KIR3DL1-HLA-Bw4 match stratified by KIR haplotype. RESULTS KIR3DL1-HLA-Bw4 match induced functional NK cell modulation, reflected by reduced interferon (IFN)γ production in haplotype B HCV+ patients compared to HD. This functional impairment could be ascribed to the KIR3DS1 negative HCV-infected patient population, whose NK cells also showed a significantly decreased proportion of KIR3DL1. Haplotype A HCV-infected patients showed increased NK cell degranulation compared with HD in the absence of KIR-HLA-Bw4 match and this activity was associated with increased phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that NK cells from HCV+ patients have an unbalanced ability to produce IFNγ and to kill target cells in haplotype A and B carriers, suggesting the existence of complex functional differences governed by KIR-HLA interaction, particularly on KIR3DL1 expressing NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalila Mele
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Annamaria Pasi
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Immuno-Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Rosalia Cacciatore
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Immuno-Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Mantovani
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Barbara Oliviero
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mario U Mondelli
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Varchetta
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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14
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Casey JL, Feld JJ, MacParland SA. Restoration of HCV-Specific Immune Responses with Antiviral Therapy: A Case for DAA Treatment in Acute HCV Infection. Cells 2019; 8:cells8040317. [PMID: 30959825 PMCID: PMC6523849 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, 71 million individuals are chronically infected with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). Chronic HCV infection can lead to potentially fatal outcomes including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV-specific immune responses play a major role in viral control and may explain why approximately 20% of infections are spontaneously cleared before the establishment of chronicity. Chronic infection, associated with prolonged antigen exposure, leads to immune exhaustion of HCV-specific T cells. These exhausted T cells are unable to control the viral infection. Before the introduction of direct acting antivirals (DAAs), interferon (IFN)-based therapies demonstrated successful clearance of viral infection in approximately 50% of treated patients. New effective and well-tolerated DAAs lead to a sustained virological response (SVR) in more than 95% of patients regardless of viral genotype. Researchers have investigated whether treatment, and the subsequent elimination of HCV antigen, can reverse this HCV-induced exhausted phenotype. Here we review literature exploring the restoration of HCV-specific immune responses following antiviral therapy, both IFN and DAA-based regimens. IFN treatment during acute HCV infection results in greater immune restoration than IFN treatment of chronically infected patients. Immune restoration data following DAA treatment in chronically HCV infected patients shows varied results but suggests that DAA treatment may lead to partial restoration that could be improved with earlier administration. Future research should investigate immune restoration following DAA therapies administered during acute HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia L Casey
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
| | - Sonya A MacParland
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada.
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15
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Patra T, Ray RB, Ray R. Strategies to Circumvent Host Innate Immune Response by Hepatitis C Virus. Cells 2019; 8:E274. [PMID: 30909456 PMCID: PMC6468774 DOI: 10.3390/cells8030274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immune responses generate interferons, proinflammatory cytokines, complement activation, and natural killer (NK) cell response. Ultimately, this leads to the induction of a robust virus-specific adaptive immunity. Although the host innate immune system senses and responds to eliminate virus infection, hepatitis C virus (HCV) evades immune attack and establishes persistent infection within the liver. Spontaneous clearance of HCV infection is associated with a prompt induction of innate immunity generated in an infected host. In this review, we have highlighted the current knowledge of our understanding of host⁻HCV interactions, especially for endogenous interferon production, proinflammatory response, NK cell response, and complement activation, which may impair the generation of a strong adaptive immune response for establishment of chronicity. The information may provide novel strategies in augmenting therapeutic intervention against HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapas Patra
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
| | - Ratna B Ray
- Departments of Pathology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
| | - Ranjit Ray
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
- Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
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16
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Suda T, Tatsumi T, Nishio A, Kegasawa T, Yoshioka T, Yamada R, Furuta K, Kodama T, Shigekawa M, Hikita H, Sakamori R, Fukuhara T, Matsuura Y, Takehara T. CEACAM1 Is Associated With the Suppression of Natural Killer Cell Function in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C. Hepatol Commun 2018; 2:1247-1258. [PMID: 30288478 PMCID: PMC6167072 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells (NK cells) play an essential role in the immunological mechanism underlying chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Impairment of NK cell function facilitates persistent infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatocellular carcinogenesis. However, the mechanism by which NK cell activity is suppressed in CHC is not completely understood. In this study, we focused on carcinoembryonic antigen–related cell‐adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1). CEACAM1 is thought to suppress NK cell function. We examined the effect of CEACAM1 on NK cell function in CHC. We investigated the function of CEACAM1 in vitro using Huh7.5.1 cells and the HCV‐Japanese fulminant hepatitis (JFH)‐1 strain. We analyzed serum CEACAM1 level, NK cell function, and CEACAM1 messenger RNA (mRNA) level in human liver samples. Levels of CEACAM1 on the cell surface, CEACAM1 mRNA levels, and soluble CEACAM1 levels in supernatants were significantly higher in Huh7.5.1 cells infected with JFH‐1 (Huh7.5.1/JFH‐1 cells) than in Huh7.5.1 cells. Significantly higher NK cell cytotoxicity was observed toward K562 cells after coculture with CEACAM1 knockout Huh7.5.1/JFH‐1 cells than after coculture with Huh7.5.1/JFH‐1 cells. CEACAM1 expression was induced by the HCV E2 glycoprotein in HCV infection. Significantly higher serum CEACAM1 levels were detected in patients with CHC compared with healthy subjects and patients who achieved sustained virological responses. The expression of CD107a on NK cells from patients with CHC was negatively correlated with serum CEACAM1 levels. Significantly higher levels of CEACAM1 mRNA were detected in HCV‐infected livers compared with uninfected livers. Conclusion: CEACAM1 expression was induced in hepatocytes following HCV infection and decreased NK cell cytotoxicity. These results demonstrate a possible role for CEACAM1 in the pathogenesis of CHC and hepatocellular carcinoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Suda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Tomohide Tatsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Akira Nishio
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Tadashi Kegasawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Teppei Yoshioka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Ryoko Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Kunimaro Furuta
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Takahiro Kodama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Minoru Shigekawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Hayato Hikita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Ryotaro Sakamori
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
| | - Takasuke Fukuhara
- Department of Molecular Virology Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University Suita Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Matsuura
- Department of Molecular Virology Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University Suita Japan
| | - Tetsuo Takehara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita Japan
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17
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Cytokine-Modulated Natural Killer Cells Differentially Regulate the Activity of the Hepatitis C Virus. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092771. [PMID: 30223493 PMCID: PMC6163477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
HCV genotype 2a strain JFH-1 replicates and produces viral particles efficiently in human hepatocellular carcinoma (huh) 7.5 cells, which provide a stable in vitro cell infection system for the hepatitis C virus (HCVcc system). Natural killer (NK) cells are large lymphoid cells that recognize and kill virus-infected cells. In this study, we investigated the interaction between NK cells and the HCVcc system. IL-10 is a typical immune regulatory cytokine that is produced mostly by NK cells and macrophages. IL-21 is one of the main cytokines that stimulate the activation of NK cells. First, we used anti-IL-10 to neutralize IL-10 in a coculture of NK cells and HCVcc. Anti-IL-10 treatment increased the maturation of NK cells by enhancing the frequency of the CD56+dim population in NK-92 cells. However, with anti-IL-10 treatment of NK cells in coculture with J6/JFH-1-huh 7.5 cells, there was a significant decrease in the expression of STAT1 and STAT5 proteins in NK-92 cells and an increase in the HCV Core and NS3 proteins. In addition, rIL-21 treatment increased the frequency of the CD56+dim population in NK-92 cells, Also, there was a dramatic increase in the expression of STAT1 and STAT5 proteins in rIL-21 pre-stimulated NK cells and a decrease in the expression of HCV Core protein in coculture with J6/JFH-1-huh 7.5 cells. In summary, we found that the functional activation of NK cells can be modulated by anti-IL-10 or rIL-21, which controls the expression of HCV proteins as well as HCV RNA replication.
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18
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Mania A, Kaczmarek M, Kemnitz P, Figlerowicz M, Sikora J, Sluzewski W, Zeromski J. Expression of Natural Killer Cell Inhibitory Receptors is Associated with Significant Liver Injury in Chronic Hepatitis C in Children. Ann Hepatol 2018; 16:521-529. [PMID: 28611271 DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0010.0281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIM Natural Killer (NK) cells play an important role in innate immune response to viral infections and their high proportion is situated in the liver. The aim of this study was to analyze possible relation between the expression of NK cell receptors and varied intensity of liver lesions in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) in children. MATERIAL AND METHODS Study included 105 children with CHC - 54 boys and 51 girls, age 13.62 ± 3.48 years. Blood specimens were taken at the day of the liver biopsy. Histological evaluation was performed according to METAVIR scoring system. Circulating NK cells were evaluated by flow cytometry. The results were shown as a proportion of cells expressing evaluated receptor and its' mean fluorescent intensity (MFI). RESULTS In 58 children with CHC (55.2%) significant liver fibrosis was observed ( ≥F2). Higher proportion of cells expressing CD158e inhibitory receptors was observed in the group of children with ALT > 2UNL (21.11 ± 14.60 vs. 12.22 ± 8.99%; p = 0.037). While higher proportion of cells expressing inhibitory CD158b receptor was observed in children with significant fibrosis (F ≥ 2) compared to minimal fibrosis (F < 2) - (34.14 ± 12.44 vs. 27.48 ± 8.71%; p = 0.049). Children with advanced fibrosis (F ≥ 3) had higher MFI of NK cell CD 158b receptor than children with fibrosis scored F < 3 - (5344.20 ± 3407.49 vs. 2979.67 ± 1190.64; p = 0.049). Proportion of NK cells expressing CD158b was found a predictor of significant fibrosis in univariate analysis - [OR 1.065; 95%CI (1.07-1.15); p = 0.046]. CONCLUSIONS Higher proportion of NK cells expressing inhibitory CD158b and CD158e receptors is associated with significant liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mania
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Child Neurology, University of Medical Sciences Poznan, Poland
| | - Mariusz Kaczmarek
- Chair of Clinical Immunology. University of Medical Sciences Poznan, Poland
| | - Pawel Kemnitz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Child Neurology, University of Medical Sciences Poznan, Poland
| | - Magdalena Figlerowicz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Child Neurology, University of Medical Sciences Poznan, Poland
| | - Jan Sikora
- Chair of Clinical Immunology. University of Medical Sciences Poznan, Poland
| | - Wojciech Sluzewski
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Child Neurology, University of Medical Sciences Poznan, Poland
| | - Jan Zeromski
- Chair of Clinical Immunology. University of Medical Sciences Poznan, Poland
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19
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Zekri ARN, El Deeb S, Bahnassy AA, Badr AM, Abdellateif MS, Esmat G, Salama H, Mohanad M, El-dien AE, Rabah S, Abd Elkader A. Role of relevant immune-modulators and cytokines in hepatocellular carcinoma and premalignant hepatic lesions. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:1228-1238. [PMID: 29568203 PMCID: PMC5859225 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i11.1228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2017] [Revised: 12/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess the levels of different immune modulators in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), in relation to other hepatic diseases.
METHODS Eighty-eight patients were included in the current study and represented patients with HCC (20), liver cirrhosis (28) and chronic hepatitis (CH; 25), and normal controls (NC; 15). Peripheral blood was isolated for immunophenotyping of active myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs; CD1c and CD40), mature inactive myeloid cells (CD1c and HLA), active plasmacytoid cells (pDCs; CD303 and CD40), mature inactive pDCs (CD30 and HLA), active natural killer (NK) cells (CD56 and CD161), active NK cells (CD56 and CD314) and inactive NK cells (CD56 and CD158) was done by flow cytometry. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-10, IL-12, IL-1β, interferon (IFN)-α, IFN-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-αR2 were assessed by ELISA.
RESULTS Active mDCs (CD1C+/CD40+) and inactive mDCs (CD1c+/HLA+) were significantly decreased in HCC patients in relation to NC (P < 0.001). CD40+ expression on active pDCs was decreased in HCC patients (P < 0.001), and its level was not significantly changed among other groups. Inactive pDCs (CD303+/HLA+), inactive NKs (CD56+/CD158+) and active NKs (CD56+/CD161+) were not statistically changed among the four groups studied; however, the latter was increased in CH (P < 0.05). NKG2D was statistically decreased in HCC, CH and cirrhosis (P < 0.001), and it was not expressed in 63% (12/20) of HCC patients. There was significant decrease of IL-2, IFN-α and IFN-γ (P < 0.001), and a significant increase in IL-10, IL-1β, and TNF-αR2 (P <0.01, P < 0.001 and P < 0.001; respectively) in HCC patients. There was inverted correlation between IL-12 and IL-1β in HCC (r = -0.565, P < 0.01), with a strong correlation between pDCs (CD303+/CD40+) and NKs (CD56+/CD161+; r = 0.512, P < 0.05) as well as inactive mDCs (CD1c+/HLA+) and inactive NK cells (CD56+/CD158+; r = 0.945, P < 0.001).
CONCLUSION NKG2D, CD40, IL-2 and IL-10 are important modulators in the development and progression of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel-Rahman N Zekri
- Molecular Virology and Immunology Unit, Department of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11976, Egypt
| | - Somaya El Deeb
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Abeer A Bahnassy
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11976, Egypt
| | - Abeer M Badr
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Mona S Abdellateif
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11976, Egypt
| | - Gamal Esmat
- Department of Hepatology and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11441, Egypt
| | - Hosny Salama
- Department of Hepatology and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11441, Egypt
| | - Marwa Mohanad
- Department of Biochemistry, Misr University for Science and Technology, 6th October 12945, Giza Governorate, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Esam El-dien
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Shimaa Rabah
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Assmaa Abd Elkader
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
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20
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He Y, Guo Y, Fan C, Lei Y, Zhou Y, Zhang M, Ye C, Ji G, Ma L, Lian J, Moorman JP, Yao ZQ, Wang J, Hao C, Zhang Y, Jia Z. Interferon-α-Enhanced CD100/Plexin-B1/B2 Interactions Promote Natural Killer Cell Functions in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1435. [PMID: 29163508 PMCID: PMC5676449 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background CD100, also known as Sema4D, is an immune semaphorin constitutively expressed on natural killer (NK) cells and T cells. As an immune activation molecule, CD100 has important immunoregulatory effects on NK functions by enhancing the interactions between NK cells and target cells. The aim of this study was to investigate whether hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects CD100 expression, and whether interferon-α treatment enhances NK killing activity to facilitate HCV clearance via CD100. Methods Expression of CD100 on NK cells was evaluated by flow cytometry in patients with chronic HCV infection, with or without pegylated interferon-α-based therapy. NK cell cytotoxicity and interferon (IFN)-γ production were measured by flow cytometry upon culturing the NK cells with K562 and Huh7.5 or HCV JFH-1-infected Huh7.5 cells. Results The frequency of CD100+ NK cells in HCV-infected individuals was slightly suppressed compared to healthy subjects. IFN-α treatment could significantly upregulate CD100 expression, which was confirmed by in vitro studies using peripheral blood mononuclear cells cocultured with HCV-expressing Huh7.5 cells or IFN-α. Importantly, the expression of CD100 on NK cells from HCV patients was inversely associated with the HCV-RNA levels in the early phase of IFN-α therapy, and the IFN-α upregulated CD100 led to an enhanced NK killing activity through ligations with its receptors plexin-B1/B2 on target cells. Conclusion These results implied a novel mechanism by which IFN-α enhanced CD100/Plexin-B1/B2 interaction plays an important role in promoting NK functions in patients with chronic hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu He
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yonghong Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chao Fan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yingfeng Lei
- Department of Microbiology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- HANK Biological Engineering Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chuantao Ye
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guangxi Ji
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jianqi Lian
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jonathan P Moorman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Diseases, and Immunity, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Zhi Q Yao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Diseases, and Immunity, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Jiuping Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chunqiu Hao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhansheng Jia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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21
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申 九, 熊 共, 郑 启, 张 宏, 洪 再. 自然杀伤细胞抑制肝癌肺转移. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2017; 25:2028-2038. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v25.i22.2028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
目的 研究自然杀伤(natural killer, NK)细胞对肝癌的抑制作用, 为临床应用提供实验依据.
方法 从人外周血分离培养及鉴定NK细胞. 在体外, 研究NK细胞抑制肝癌细胞的增殖、迁徙、转移. 在体内, 检测NK细胞在裸鼠肝脏存活情况. 利用人肝癌组织裸鼠肝脏原位移植模型来评估NK细胞在体内对肝癌生长、转移的抑制功能. 通过检测NK细胞活化受体、NKB1、穿孔素和颗粒酶的表达情况来评估白介素(interleukin, IL)-2对NK细胞免疫功能的刺激作用.
结果 采用密度梯度法可以获取较大量的外周血单个核细胞, 且能够从中分离到高活力的NK细胞. NK细胞经IL-2激活后活力增高, 成簇悬浮繁殖、扩增、生长. 在体外, NK细胞可抑制肝癌细胞的增殖、迁移和侵袭. 在体内, NK细胞在裸鼠肝脏可长期存活; NK细胞可明显抑制裸鼠肝癌肺转移. 然而, NK细胞对肝脏肿瘤生长抑制不明显. IL-2可诱导NK细胞免疫相关分子的表达并提高其肿瘤抑制功能.
结论 NK细胞的免疫学功能可被IL-2活化从而抑制肝癌的转移.
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Yang CM, Yoon JC, Park JH, Lee JM. Hepatitis C virus impairs natural killer cell activity via viral serine protease NS3. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175793. [PMID: 28410411 PMCID: PMC5391949 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is characterized by a high frequency of chronic cases owing to the impairment of innate and adaptive immune responses. The modulation of natural killer (NK) cell functions by HCV leads to an impaired innate immune response. However, the underling mechanisms and roles of HCV proteins in this immune evasion are controversial, especially in the early phase of HCV infection. To investigate the role of HCV nonstructural proteins especially NS3 in the impairment of NK functions, NK cells were isolated from the PBMCs by negative selection. To assess the direct cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production capability of NK cells, co-cultured with uninfected, HCV-infected, HCV-NS3 DNA-transfected Huh-7.5, or HCV-NS replicon cells. To determine the effect of an NS3 serine protease inhibitor, HCV-infected Huh-7.5 cells were treated with BILN-2061. Then, NK cells were harvested and further co-cultured with K-562 target cells. NK cell functions were analyzed by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. When co-cultured with HCV-infected Huh-7.5 cells, the natural cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production capability of NK cells were significantly reduced. NK cell functions were inhibited to similar levels upon co-culture with HCV-NS replicon cells, NS3-transfected cells, and HCV-infected Huh-7.5 cells. These reductions were restored by BILN-2061-treatment. Furthermore, BILN-2061-treatment significantly increased degranulation against K-562 target cells and IFN-γ productivity in NK cells. Consistent with these findings, the expression levels of activating NK cell receptors, such as NKp46 and NKp30, were also increased. In HCV-infected cells, the serine protease NS3 may play a role in the abrogation of NK cell functions in the early phase of infection through downregulation of NKp46 and NKp30 receptors on NK cells. Together, these results suggest that NS3 represents a novel drug target for the treatment of HCV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Mo Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases and Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo Chun Yoon
- Department of Microbiology and Tissue Injury Defense Research Center, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeon Han Park
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases and Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Myun Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases and Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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23
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Dustin LB, Bartolini B, Capobianchi MR, Pistello M. Hepatitis C virus: life cycle in cells, infection and host response, and analysis of molecular markers influencing the outcome of infection and response to therapy. Clin Microbiol Infect 2016; 22:826-832. [PMID: 27592089 PMCID: PMC5627509 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2016.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major global health burden accounting for around 170 million chronic infections worldwide. Since its discovery, which dates back to about 30 years ago, many details of the viral genome organization and the astonishing genetic diversity have been unveiled but, owing to the difficulty of culturing HCV in vitro and obtaining fully susceptible yet immunocompetent in vivo models, we are still a long way from the full comprehension of viral life cycle, host cell pathways facilitating or counteracting infection, pathogenetic mechanisms in vivo, and host defences. Here, we illustrate the viral life cycle into cells, describe the interplay between immune and genetic host factors shaping the course of infection, and provide details of the molecular approaches currently used to genotype, monitor replication in vivo, and study the emergence of drug-resistant viral variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- L B Dustin
- Kennedy Institute for Rheumatology and Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - B Bartolini
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - M R Capobianchi
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - M Pistello
- Virology Unit, Pisa University Hospital, and Virology Section and Retrovirus Centre, Department of Translational Research, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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24
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Functional Behavior of NKp46-Positive Intrahepatic Natural Killer Cells Against Hepatitis C Virus Reinfection After Liver Transplantation. Transplantation 2016; 100:355-64. [PMID: 26714120 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000001031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND NKp46 expression in natural killer (NK) cells has recently been shown to affect the responsiveness to antiviral treatment in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients. However, the density of NKp46 on intrahepatic NK cells is remarkably higher than that on peripherally circulating NK cells, whereas the biophylactic function of intrahepatic NK cells against HCV reinfection remains unclear. METHODS We analyzed the phenotypic and functional properties of intrahepatic NK cells using mononuclear cells extracted from ex vivo liver perfusates from living liver transplantation donors. To investigate the role of intrahepatic NK cells in relation to HCV infection, we evaluated posttransplant HCV load kinetics in HCV-related patients. RESULTS Intrahepatic NK cells from healthy donors showed a distinctive phenotype even in each of the CD56 and CD56 fractions compared with peripheral blood NK cells. In the assays using a Huh7-HCV replicon system, anti-HCV activity was induced via recognition of the NK cell receptors, including NKp46, NKp30, and NKG2D, which was demonstrated by the use of monoclonal antibodies that neutralized neutralizing molecules. Unexpectedly, the density of NKp46 on intrahepatic NK cells varied considerably among individuals, allowing us to demonstrate that HCV reload in the early posttransplant period was delayed in recipients of liver allografts containing a higher proportion of NKp46 NK cells. CONCLUSIONS Intrahepatic NKp46 NK cells exhibited anti-HCV activity via cell-to-cell contact. The variation of the NKp46 proportion in individuals could be attributed to the diversity of HCV resistance observed in these individuals, which possibly reflects the clinical outcome of infection in patients.
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Nel I, Lucar O, Petitdemange C, Béziat V, Lapalus M, Bédossa P, Debré P, Asselah T, Marcellin P, Vieillard V. Accumulation of Intrahepatic TNF-α-Producing NKp44+ NK Cells Correlates With Liver Fibrosis and Viral Load in Chronic HCV Infection. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e3678. [PMID: 27175704 PMCID: PMC4902546 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000003678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the setting of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, changes in natural killer (NK) cells have been shown to reflect activation in response to virus stimulation. The contribution of individual natural cytotoxicity receptors to HCV infection remains to be clarified. NKp44 is the sole specific natural cytotoxicity receptor expressed only on activated NK cells.In this study, peripheral blood and liver NK-cell subsets were purified from 31 patients with chronic C hepatitis or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and then characterized by flow cytometry. Their polyfunctional activity was determined by expression of the CD107a degranulation marker, together with intracellular cytokine production.Unlike the patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, patients with chronic HCV infection had a higher frequency of NKp44 NK cells in the liver than in their peripheral blood (P < 0.0001). Intrahepatic NKp44 NK cells from HCV individuals produced higher levels of tumor necrosis factor-α than did NKp44 NK cells (P = 0.0011). Importantly, the frequency of intrahepatic NKp44 NK cells was correlated with both HCV-RNA levels (P = 0.0234) and stage of fibrosis (P = 0.0003).Our findings suggest that the accumulation of intrahepatic tumor necrosis factor-α-producing NKp44 resident NK cells play a role in the liver damage associated with chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Nel
- From the Sorbonne Universités (IN, OL, CP, VB, PD, VV), UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM U1135, CNRS ERL8255, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris; Univ Paris Diderot (ML), INSERM UMR 1149, CRI Paris Montmartre, Clichy; AP-HP (PB), Service d'Anatomie Pathologique; and AP-HP (TA, PM), Service d'Hépatologie, Hôpital Beaujon, Clichy, France
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26
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Ma Y, Li X, Kuang E. Viral Evasion of Natural Killer Cell Activation. Viruses 2016; 8:95. [PMID: 27077876 PMCID: PMC4848590 DOI: 10.3390/v8040095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play a key role in antiviral innate defenses because of their abilities to kill infected cells and secrete regulatory cytokines. Additionally, NK cells exhibit adaptive memory-like antigen-specific responses, which represent a novel antiviral NK cell defense mechanism. Viruses have evolved various strategies to evade the recognition and destruction by NK cells through the downregulation of the NK cell activating receptors. Here, we review the recent findings on viral evasion of NK cells via the impairment of NK cell-activating receptors and ligands, which provide new insights on the relationship between NK cells and viral actions during persistent viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ma
- Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| | - Ersheng Kuang
- Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou 510080, China.
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510080, China.
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Romero-Pérez GA, Egashira M, Harada Y, Tsuruta T, Oda Y, Ueda F, Tsukahara T, Tsukamoto Y, Inoue R. Orally Administered Salacia reticulata Extract Reduces H1N1 Influenza Clinical Symptoms in Murine Lung Tissues Putatively Due to Enhanced Natural Killer Cell Activity. Front Immunol 2016; 7:115. [PMID: 27066007 PMCID: PMC4814808 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Influenza is a major cause of respiratory tract infection. Although most cases do not require further hospitalization, influenza periodically causes epidemics in humans that can potentially infect and kill millions of people. To countermeasure this threat, new vaccines need to be developed annually to match emerging influenza viral strains with increased resistance to existing vaccines. Thus, there is a need for finding and developing new anti-influenza viral agents as alternatives to current treatments. Here, we tested the antiviral effects of an extract from the stems and roots of Salacia reticulata (SSRE), a plant rich in phytochemicals, such as salacinol, kotalanol, and catechins, on H1N1 influenza virus-infected mice. Following oral administration of 0.6 mg/day of SSRE, the incidence of coughing decreased in 80% of mice, and only one case of severe pulmonary inflammation was detected. Moreover, when compared with mice given Lactobacillus casei JCM1134, a strain previously shown to help increase in vitro natural killer (NK) cell activity, SSRE-administered mice showed greater and equal NK cell activity in splenocytes and pulmonary cells, respectively, at high effector cell:target cell ratios. Next, to test whether or not SSRE would exert protective effects against influenza in the absence of gut microbiota, mice were given antibiotics before being inoculated influenza virus and subsequently administered SSRE. SSRE administration induced an increase in NK cell activity in splenocytes and pulmonary cells at levels similar to those detected in mice not treated with antibiotics. Based on our results, it can be concluded that phytochemicals in the SSRE exerted protective effects against influenza infection putatively via modulation of the immune response, including enhancement of NK cell activity, although some protective effects were not necessarily through modulation of gut microbiota. Further investigation is necessary to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the protective effects of SSRE against influenza infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masayo Egashira
- Laboratory of Animal Science, Department of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Yuri Harada
- Laboratory of Animal Science, Department of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Takeshi Tsuruta
- Laboratory of Animal Science, Department of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Yuriko Oda
- Life Science Research Laboratories, Research and Development Management Headquarters, Fujifilm Corporation , Kanagawa , Japan
| | - Fumitaka Ueda
- Life Science Research Laboratories, Research and Development Management Headquarters, Fujifilm Corporation , Kanagawa , Japan
| | - Takamitsu Tsukahara
- Kyoto Institute of Nutrition and Pathology, Kyoto, Japan; Laboratory of Animal Science, Department of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Tsukamoto
- Laboratory of Animal Hygiene, Department of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Ryo Inoue
- Laboratory of Animal Science, Department of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University , Kyoto , Japan
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Abstract
Natural killer cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes important in immune responses to cancer and multiple pathogens. However, chronic activation of NK cells can induce a hyporesponsive state. The molecular basis of the mechanisms underlying the generation and maintenance of this hyporesponsive condition are unknown, thus an easy and reproducible mechanism able to induce hyporesponsiveness on human NK cells would be very useful to gain understanding of this process. Human NK cells treated with ionomycin lose their ability to degranulate and secrete IFN-γ in response to a variety of stimuli, but IL-2 stimulation can compensate these defects. Apart from reductions in the expression of CD11a/CD18, no great changes were observed in the activating and inhibitory receptors expressed by these NK cells, however their transcriptional signature is different to that described for other hyporesponsive lymphocytes.
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29
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Tatsumi T, Takehara T. Impact of natural killer cells on chronic hepatitis C and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Res 2016; 46:416-22. [PMID: 26574168 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are involved in the pathogenesis of hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent immunological progresses have revealed the molecular mechanisms of activation or inhibition of NK cells. In patients infected with HCV, the percentages of NK cells are decreased and the NK receptor expression and function of NK cells including cytotoxicity and cytokine production are altered. These alterations in NK cells are associated with persistent infection with HCV, liver injury, liver fibrosis and liver carcinogenesis. In HCV treatment, NK cells play a role in the eradication of HCV in both interferon (IFN)-based therapy and IFN-free therapy using direct-acting antivirals (DAA). In HCC patients, the exhaustion of NK cells that represents lower cytotoxicity and impaired cytokine production may contribute to the progression of HCC. Several immunotherapies targeting NK cells have been reported. NK cell transfer and NK-activating gene therapy have been demonstrated to be effective in mouse liver cancer models and several clinical trials are ongoing. Recently, the role of major histocompatibility complex class I-related chain A (MICA), a human ligand of NKG2D, has attracted attention in the development of HCC. The expression of MICA could be controlled by anti-HCC drugs including sorafenib. A new chemo-immunotherapy may be expected in the treatment of HCC. In this review, we summarize the impact of NK cells on chronic hepatitis C and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohide Tatsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Takehara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
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30
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Hong ZF, Zhao WX, Yin ZY, Xie CR, Xu YP, Chi XQ, Zhang S, Wang XM. Natural killer cells inhibit pulmonary metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma in nude mice. Oncol Lett 2016; 11:2019-2026. [PMID: 26998115 PMCID: PMC4774462 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.4170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells have been demonstrated to inhibit tumor growth. However, the role of NK cells in the inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis is not well understood. The present study aimed to investigate the roles that NK cells may serve in inhibiting hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis. The role of isolated NK cells in the inhibition, proliferation, migration and invasion of the hepatoma cell line, MHCC97-H, was examined in vitro. Additionally, the survival rate of NK cells labeled with carboxyfluorescein diacetate-succinimidyl ester was assessed in vivo. An orthotopic implantation model was used to evaluate the role of NK cells in suppressing MHCC97-H cells in vivo. The effect of interleukin (IL)-2 stimulation on the tumor-inhibitory role of the NK cells was measured indirectly by analyzing the expression of various NK cell receptors and activated NK cell markers. It was observed that the NK cells inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of the MHCC97-H cells in vitro. Furthermore, the NK cells demonstrated long-term survival in the livers of the nude mice, and inhibited lung metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma in vivo. However, liver tumor growth was not inhibited by the NK cells. IL-2 was identified to enhance the tumor-inhibitory effect of NK cells. The present study concludes that IL-2 may enhance the antitumor activity of the NK cells, and thereby inhibit the metastases of hepatocellular carcinoma in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zai-Fa Hong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Disease Center, Xiamen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiamen, Fujian 361000, P.R. China; Post Graduate College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350004, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Xiu Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, P.R. China
| | - Zhen-Yu Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Rong Xie
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, P.R. China
| | - Ya-Ping Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Qin Chi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, P.R. China
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Min Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, P.R. China
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31
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Yoon JC, Yang CM, Song Y, Lee JM. Natural killer cells in hepatitis C: Current progress. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:1449-1460. [PMID: 26819513 PMCID: PMC4721979 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i4.1449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) are characterized by a high incidence of chronic infection, which results in chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The functional impairment of HCV-specific T cells is associated with the evolution of an acute infection to chronic hepatitis. While T cells are the important effector cells in adaptive immunity, natural killer (NK) cells are the critical effector cells in innate immunity to virus infections. The findings of recent studies on NK cells in hepatitis C suggest that NK cell responses are indeed important in each phase of HCV infection. In the early phase, NK cells are involved in protective immunity to HCV. The immune evasion strategies used by HCV may target NK cells and might contribute to the progression to chronic hepatitis C. NK cells may control HCV replication and modulate hepatic fibrosis in the chronic phase. Further investigations are, however, needed, because a considerable number of studies observed functional impairment of NK cells in chronic HCV infection. Interestingly, the enhanced NK cell responses during interferon-α-based therapy of chronic hepatitis C indicate successful treatment. In spite of the advances in research on NK cells in hepatitis C, establishment of more physiological HCV infection model systems is needed to settle unsolved controversies over the role and functional status of NK cells in HCV infection.
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32
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Miot C, Beaumont E, Duluc D, Le Guillou-Guillemette H, Preisser L, Garo E, Blanchard S, Hubert Fouchard I, Créminon C, Lamourette P, Fremaux I, Calès P, Lunel-Fabiani F, Boursier J, Braum O, Fickenscher H, Roingeard P, Delneste Y, Jeannin P. IL-26 is overexpressed in chronically HCV-infected patients and enhances TRAIL-mediated cytotoxicity and interferon production by human NK cells. Gut 2015; 64:1466-75. [PMID: 25183206 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2013-306604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Interleukin-26 (IL-26) is a member of the IL-10 cytokine family, first discovered based on its peculiar expression by virus-transformed T cells. IL-26 is overexpressed in chronic inflammation (rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease) and induces proinflammatory cytokines by myeloid cells and some epithelial cells. We thus investigated the expression and potential role of IL-26 in chronic HCV infection, a pathology associated with chronic inflammation. DESIGN IL-26 was quantified in a cohort of chronically HCV-infected patients, naive of treatment and its expression in the liver biopsies investigated by immunohistochemistry. We also analysed the ability of IL-26 to modulate the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which control HCV infection. RESULTS The serum levels of IL-26 are enhanced in chronically HCV-infected patients, mainly in those with severe liver inflammation. Immunohistochemistry reveals an intense IL-26 staining in liver lesions, mainly in infiltrating CD3+ cells. We also show that NK cells from healthy subjects and from HCV-infected patients are sensitive to IL-26. IL-26 upregulates membrane tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) expression on CD16- CD56(bright) NK cells, enabling them to kill HCV-infected hepatoma cells, with the same efficacy as interferon (IFN)-α-treated NK cells. IL-26 also induces the expression of the antiviral cytokines IFN-β and IFN-γ, and of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α by NK cells. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights IL-26 as a new player in the inflammatory and antiviral immune responses associated with chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charline Miot
- Université d'Angers, Angers, France Inserm, Unité 892, Angers, France CNRS, Unité 6299, Angers, France Laboratoire d'Immunologie et Allergologie, CHU Angers, Angers, France
| | - Elodie Beaumont
- Université de Tours, Tours, France Inserm, Unité 966, Tours, France
| | - Dorothée Duluc
- Université d'Angers, Angers, France Inserm, Unité 892, Angers, France CNRS, Unité 6299, Angers, France
| | | | - Laurence Preisser
- Université d'Angers, Angers, France Inserm, Unité 892, Angers, France CNRS, Unité 6299, Angers, France
| | - Erwan Garo
- Université d'Angers, Angers, France Inserm, Unité 892, Angers, France CNRS, Unité 6299, Angers, France
| | - Simon Blanchard
- Université d'Angers, Angers, France Inserm, Unité 892, Angers, France CNRS, Unité 6299, Angers, France Laboratoire d'Immunologie et Allergologie, CHU Angers, Angers, France
| | | | - Christophe Créminon
- Service de Pharmacologie et d'Immunoanalyse, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique Saclay, iBiTec-S, Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Patricia Lamourette
- Service de Pharmacologie et d'Immunoanalyse, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique Saclay, iBiTec-S, Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Isabelle Fremaux
- Université d'Angers, Angers, France Inserm, Unité 892, Angers, France CNRS, Unité 6299, Angers, France
| | - Paul Calès
- Université d'Angers, UPRES 3859, Angers, France Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, CHU Angers, Angers, France
| | - Françoise Lunel-Fabiani
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie-Virologie, CHU Angers, Angers, France Université d'Angers, UPRES 3859, Angers, France
| | - Jérôme Boursier
- Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, CHU Angers, Angers, France
| | - Oliver Braum
- Institute for Infection Medicine, Christian Albrecht University of Kiel and University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Helmut Fickenscher
- Institute for Infection Medicine, Christian Albrecht University of Kiel and University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Yves Delneste
- Université d'Angers, Angers, France Inserm, Unité 892, Angers, France CNRS, Unité 6299, Angers, France Laboratoire d'Immunologie et Allergologie, CHU Angers, Angers, France
| | - Pascale Jeannin
- Université d'Angers, Angers, France Inserm, Unité 892, Angers, France CNRS, Unité 6299, Angers, France Laboratoire d'Immunologie et Allergologie, CHU Angers, Angers, France
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Cheng YQ, Ren JP, Zhao J, Wang JM, Zhou Y, Li GY, Moorman JP, Yao ZQ. MicroRNA-155 regulates interferon-γ production in natural killer cells via Tim-3 signalling in chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Immunology 2015; 145:485-97. [PMID: 25772938 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Host immune responses must be tightly regulated by an intricate balance between positive and negative signals while fighting pathogens; persistent pathogens may usurp these regulatory mechanisms to dampen host immunity to facilitate survival in vivo. Here we report that Tim-3, a negative signalling molecule expressed on monocytes and T cells, is up-regulated on natural killer (NK) cells in individuals chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Additionally, the transcription factor T-bet was also found to be up-regulated and associated with Tim-3 expression in NK cells during chronic HCV infection. MicroRNA-155 (miR-155), an miRNA that inhibits signalling proteins involved in immune responses, was down-regulated in NK cells by HCV infection. This Tim-3/T-bet over-expression and miR-155 inhibition were recapitulated in vitro by incubating primary NK cells or NK92 cell line with Huh-7 hepatocytes expressing HCV. Reconstitution of miR-155 in NK cells from HCV-infected patients led to a decrease in T-bet/Tim-3 expression and an increase in interferon-γ production. Blocking Tim-3 signalling also enhanced interferon-γ production in NK cells by improving signal transducer and activator of transcription-5 phosphorylation. These data indicate that HCV-induced, miR-155-regulated Tim-3 expression regulates NK cell function, suggesting a novel mechanism for balancing immune clearance and immune injury during chronic viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Q Cheng
- Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA.,International Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Liver Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jun P Ren
- Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Juan Zhao
- Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Jia M Wang
- Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Soochow University School of Medicine, Suzhou, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA.,Centre of Diagnosis and Treatment for Infectious Diseases of Chinese PLA, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xian, China
| | - Guang Y Li
- Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Jonathan P Moorman
- Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA.,HCV/HIV Program, James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Zhi Q Yao
- Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA.,HCV/HIV Program, James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, Johnson City, TN, USA
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Detection and significance of cytotoxic cell subsets in biopsies of HCV-infected human livers. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2014; 62:153-60. [PMID: 24232187 PMCID: PMC3950568 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-013-0258-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Accepted: 10/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Chronic viral hepatitis C still remains the clinical challenge. Attempts of the immune system to cope with this infection are unsatisfactory. There
is a conviction that the main site of interaction between virus (Hepatitis C virus, HCV) and immune system is in situ, i.e., in liver. Natural killer (NK) cells appeared relevant in the acute hepatitis. Less is known about the immune response in the chronic HCV infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of various cytotoxic cell subsets in chronic HCV+ liver tissue and to seek links between them and laboratory data of patients. Sections from paraffin blocks of liver biopsy tissues of HCV+ untreated patients were subjected to the reaction with antibodies vs. cytotoxic cell subsets and immunohistochemistry. Positive cells were searched in cellular infiltrates in portal areas and in liver parenchyma. They were classified on the “Yes” or “No” basis. Majority of liver biopsies exhibited cellular infiltrates in portal spaces and as single cells in liver parenchyma. Infiltrates consisted of CD8+ T cells, CD56+ NK ones, including CD158i+ and CD158b+. The latter were rarely seen. There were also granzyme B+ cells. The most abundant were NKG2D+ cells, much more common than NK CD56+ ones. It implied that NKG2D was also expressed on T cells. Prevalence of NKG2D+ cells correlated with high activity of liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and a greater histological severity of liver injury. NKG2D+ cells form the bulk of cells infiltrating HCV-infected human liver. Correlation of NKG2D+ cells with some laboratory parameters of patients suggests their role in hepatitis C pathogenesis.
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Heim MH, Thimme R. Innate and adaptive immune responses in HCV infections. J Hepatol 2014; 61:S14-25. [PMID: 25443342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus has been identified a quarter of a decade ago as a leading cause of chronic viral hepatitis that can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Only a minority of patients can clear the virus spontaneously during acute infection. Elimination of HCV during acute infection correlates with a rapid induction of innate, especially interferon (IFN) induced genes, and a delayed induction of adaptive immune responses. However, the majority of patients is unable to clear the virus and develops viral persistence in face of an ongoing innate and adaptive immune response. The virus has developed several strategies to escape these immune responses. For example, to escape innate immunity, the HCV NS3/4A protease can efficiently cleave and inactivate two important signalling molecules in the sensory pathways that react to HCV pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) to induce IFNs, i.e., the mitochondrial anti-viral signalling protein (MAVS) and the Toll-IL-1 receptor-domain-containing adaptor-inducing IFN-β (TRIF). Despite these escape mechanisms, IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) are induced in a large proportion of patients with chronic infection. Of note, chronically HCV infected patients with constitutive IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) expression have a poor response to treatment with pegylated IFN-α (PegIFN-α) and ribavirin. The mechanisms that protect HCV from IFN-mediated innate immune reactions are not entirely understood, but might involve blockade of ISG protein translation at the ribosome, localization of viral replication to cell compartments that are not accessible to anti-viral IFN-stimulated effector systems, or direct antagonism of effector systems by viral proteins. Escape from adaptive immune responses can be achieved by emergence of viral escape mutations that avoid recognition by antibodies and T cells. In addition, chronic infection is characterized by the presence of functionally and phenotypically altered NK and T cell responses that are unable to clear the virus but most likely contribute to the ongoing liver disease. In this review, we will summarize current knowledge about the role of innate and adaptive immune responses in determining the outcome of HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus H Heim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4031 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Robert Thimme
- Department of Medicine, Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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Recent advances in the anti-HCV mechanisms of interferon. Acta Pharm Sin B 2014; 4:241-7. [PMID: 26579391 PMCID: PMC4629091 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2014.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Revised: 06/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Interferon (IFN) in combination with ribavirin has been the standard of care (SOC) for chronic hepatitis C for the past few decades. Although the current SOC lacks the desired efficacy, and 4 new direct-acting antiviral agents have been recently approved, interferons are still likely to remain the cornerstone of therapy for some time. Moreover, as an important cytokine system of innate immunity, host interferon signaling provides a powerful antiviral response. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which HCV infection controls interferon production, and how interferons, in turn, trigger anti-HCV activities as well as control the outcome of HCV infection remain to be clarified. In this report, we review current progress in understanding the mechanisms of IFN against HCV, and also summarize the knowledge of induction of interferon signaling by HCV infection.
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Key Words
- Antiviral agent
- CHC, chronic hepatitis C
- DCs, dendritic cells
- DNAM1, DNAX accessory molecule-1
- E2, envelop 2
- GAS, IFN-γ-activated site
- GWAS, genome-wide association studies
- Hepatitis C virus
- IFN, interferon
- IFN-α, interferon-α
- IFNAR1, interferon-alpha receptor 1
- IFNAR2, interferon-alpha receptor 2
- IFNGR1, interferon gamma receptor 1
- IFNGR2, interferon gamma receptor 2
- IFNL4, IFN-lambda 4
- IL-10R2, interleukin-10 receptor 2
- IL-29, interleukin-29
- IRF-3, interferon regulatory factor 3
- IRGs, IFN regulatory genes
- ISG15, interferon-stimulated gene 15
- ISGF3, IFN-stimulated gene factor 3
- ISGs, IFN-stimulated genes
- ISREs, IFN-stimulated response elements
- Interferon
- JAKs, Janus activated kinases
- MAVS, mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein
- MDA-5, melanoma differentiation-associated gene-5
- MHC, major histocompatibility complex
- Molecular mechanism
- NKCs, natural killer cells
- NKTCs, natural killer T cells
- OAS, 2′-5′-oligoadenylate synthetase
- PAMPs, pathogen-associated molecular patterns
- PBMCs, peripheral blood mononuclear cells
- PKR, protein kinase R
- PRRs, pattern recognition receptors
- RIG-I, retinoic acid-inducible gene-I
- RLRs, RIG-I-like receptors
- RdRp, RNA dependent RNA polymerase
- SNPs, single-nucleotide polymorphisms
- SOC, standard of care
- STAT1, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1
- STAT2, signal transducer and activator of transcription 2
- SVR, sustained virological response
- TH1, T-helper-1
- TH2, T-helper-2
- TLRs, Toll-like receptors
- TYK2, tyrosine kinase 2
- USP18, ubiquitin specific peptidase 18
- dsRNA, double-stranded RNA
- pDC, plasmacytoid dendritic cell
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Serti E, Werner JM, Chattergoon M, Cox AL, Lohmann V, Rehermann B. Monocytes activate natural killer cells via inflammasome-induced interleukin 18 in response to hepatitis C virus replication. Gastroenterology 2014; 147:209-220.e3. [PMID: 24685721 PMCID: PMC4469643 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2014.03.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Production of interferon (IFN)-γ by natural killer (NK) cells is attenuated during chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We investigated whether this is due to intrinsic or extrinsic mechanisms of NK cells. METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected from patients with chronic HCV infection or uninfected blood donors (controls); NK cells and monocytes were isolated or eliminated. We cultured hepatoma cells that express luciferase-tagged subgenomic HCV replicons (Huh7/HCV replicon cells) or their HCV-negative counterparts (Huh7) with NK cells in the presence or absence of other populations of PBMCs. Antiviral activity, cytotoxicity, and cytokine production were assessed. RESULTS NK cells produced greater amounts of IFN-γ when PBMC were cocultured with Huh7/HCV replicon cells than with Huh7 cells; NK cells and PBMCs from controls suppressed HCV replication to a greater extent than those from patients with chronic HCV infection. This antiviral effect was predominantly mediated by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IFN-γ. The antiviral activity of NK cells and their production of IFN-γ were reduced when they were used in coculture alone (rather than with PBMC), or after depletion of CD14(+) monocytes, after knockdown of the inflammasome in monocytes, or after neutralization of interleukin-18, which is regulated by the inflammasome. These findings indicate a role for monocytes in NK cell activation. Compared with control monocytes, monocytes from patients with chronic HCV infection had reduced TNF-α-mediated (direct) and reduced NK cell-mediated (indirect) antiviral effects. Control monocytes increased the antiviral effects of NK cells from patients with chronic HCV infection and their production of IFN-γ. CONCLUSIONS Monocytes sense cells that contain replicating HCV and respond by producing interleukin-18 via the inflammasome and by activating NK cells. Patients with chronic HCV infection have reduced monocyte function, attenuating NK cell IFN-γ-mediated responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Serti
- Immunology Section, Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes
and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, DHHS, Bethesda, MD,
USA
| | - Jens M. Werner
- Immunology Section, Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes
and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, DHHS, Bethesda, MD,
USA
| | - Michael Chattergoon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine,
Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrea L. Cox
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine,
Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Volker Lohmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University of
Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Barbara Rehermann
- Immunology Section, Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland.
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Natural killer cell function and dysfunction in hepatitis C virus infection. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:903764. [PMID: 25057504 PMCID: PMC4095668 DOI: 10.1155/2014/903764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Viruses must continually adapt against dynamic innate and adaptive responses of the host immune system to establish chronic infection. Only a small minority (~20%) of those exposed to hepatitis C virus (HCV) spontaneously clear infection, leaving approximately 200 million people worldwide chronically infected with HCV. A number of recent research studies suggest that establishment and maintenance of chronic HCV infection involve natural killer (NK) cell dysfunction. This relationship is illustrated in vitro by disruption of typical NK cell responses including both cell-mediated cytotoxicity and cytokine production. Expression of a number of activating NK cell receptors in vivo is also affected in chronic HCV infection. Thus, direct in vivo and in vitro evidence of compromised NK function in chronic HCV infection in conjunction with significant epidemiological associations between the outcome of HCV infection and certain combinations of NK cell regulatory receptor and class I human histocompatibility linked antigen (HLA) genotypes indicate that NK cells are important in the immune response against HCV infection. In this review, we highlight evidence suggesting that selective impairment of NK cell activity is related to establishment of chronic HCV infection.
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Abdel-Hakeem MS, Shoukry NH. Protective immunity against hepatitis C: many shades of gray. Front Immunol 2014; 5:274. [PMID: 24982656 PMCID: PMC4058636 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of individuals who become acutely infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) develop chronic infection and suffer from progressive liver damage while approximately 25% are able to eliminate the virus spontaneously. Despite the recent introduction of new direct-acting antivirals, there is still no vaccine for HCV. As a result, new infections and reinfections will remain a problem in developing countries and among high risk populations like injection drug users who have limited access to treatment and who continue to be exposed to the virus. The outcome of acute HCV is determined by the interplay between the host genetics, the virus, and the virus-specific immune response. Studies in humans and chimpanzees have demonstrated the essential role of HCV-specific CD4 and CD8 T cell responses in protection against viral persistence. Recent data suggest that antibody responses play a more important role than what was previously thought. Individuals who spontaneously resolve acute HCV infection develop long-lived memory T cells and are less likely to become persistently infected upon reexposure. New studies examining high risk cohorts are identifying correlates of protection during real life exposures and reinfections. In this review, we discuss correlates of protective immunity during acute HCV and upon reexposure. We draw parallels between HCV and the current knowledge about protective memory in other models of chronic viral infections. Finally, we discuss some of the yet unresolved questions about key correlates of protection and their relevance for vaccine development against HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed S Abdel-Hakeem
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM) , Montréal, QC , Canada ; Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC , Canada ; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University , Cairo , Egypt
| | - Naglaa H Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM) , Montréal, QC , Canada ; Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal , Montréal, QC , Canada
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40
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Das R, Tripathy A. Increased expressions of NKp44, NKp46 on NK/NKT-like cells are associated with impaired cytolytic function in self-limiting hepatitis E infection. Med Microbiol Immunol 2014; 203:303-14. [DOI: 10.1007/s00430-014-0338-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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41
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Kang W, Sung PS, Park SH, Yoon S, Chang DY, Kim S, Han KH, Kim JK, Rehermann B, Chwae YJ, Shin EC. Hepatitis C virus attenuates interferon-induced major histocompatibility complex class I expression and decreases CD8+ T cell effector functions. Gastroenterology 2014; 146:1351-60.e1-4. [PMID: 24486950 PMCID: PMC4478444 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2014.01.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Revised: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-restricted CD8(+) T cells are required for clearance of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. MHC class I expression is up-regulated by type I and II interferons (IFNs). However, little is known about the effects of HCV infection on IFN-induced expression of MHC class I. METHODS We used the HCV cell culture system (HCVcc) with the genotype 2a Japanese fulminant hepatitis-1 strain to investigate IFN-induced expression of MHC class I and its regulatory mechanisms. HCVcc-infected Huh-7.5 cells were analyzed by flow cytometry, metabolic labeling, immunoprecipitation, and immunoblotting analyses. Protein kinase R (PKR) was knocked down with lentiviruses that express small hairpin RNAs. The functional effects of MHC class I regulation by HCV were demonstrated in co-culture studies, using HCV-specific CD8(+) T cells. RESULTS Although the baseline level of MHC class I was not affected by HCV infection, IFN-induced expression of MHC class I was notably attenuated in HCV-infected cells. This was associated with replicating HCV RNA, not with viral protein. HCV infection reduced IFN-induced synthesis of MHC class I protein and induced phosphorylation of PKR and eIF2α. IFN-induced MHC class I expression was restored by small hairpin RNA-mediated knockdown of PKR in HCV-infected cells. Co-culture of HCV-specific CD8(+) T cells and HCV-infected cells that expressed HLA-A2 demonstrated that HCV infection reduced the effector functions of HCV-specific CD8(+) T cells; these functions were restored by small hairpin RNA-mediated knockdown of PKR. CONCLUSIONS IFN-induced expression of MHC class I is attenuated in HCV-infected cells by activation of PKR, which reduces the effector functions of HCV-specific CD8(+) T cells. This appears to be an important mechanism by which HCV circumvents antiviral adaptive immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonseok Kang
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea,Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Pil Soo Sung
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Su-Hyung Park
- Immunology Section, Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sarah Yoon
- Department of Microbiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Dong-Yeop Chang
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seungtaek Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang Hyub Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ja Kyung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Barbara Rehermann
- Immunology Section, Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Yong-Joon Chwae
- Department of Microbiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Eui-Cheol Shin
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea.
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Fugier E, Marche H, Thélu MA, Macek Jílková Z, Van Campenhout N, Dufeu-Duchesne T, Leroy V, Zarski JP, Sturm N, Marche PN, Jouvin-Marche E. Functions of liver natural killer cells are dependent on the severity of liver inflammation and fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C. PLoS One 2014; 9:e95614. [PMID: 24759660 PMCID: PMC3997478 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
During chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, the role of intra-hepatic (IH) natural killer (NK) cells is still controversial. To clarify their functions, we investigated anti-viral and cytotoxic activity of NK cells in human fresh liver biopsies. We compared the functions of IH-NK cells in HCV-infected and NASH patients in physiological conditions as well as after stimulation using flow cytometric and immunohistochemical analyses. Interestingly, few IH-NK cells produced anti-viral cytokine IFN-γ in HCV-infected patients similarly as in non-infected individuals. Spontaneous degranulation activity was extremely low in peripheral NK cells compared to IH-NK cells, and was significantly higher in IH-NK cells from HCV-infected patients compared to non-infected individuals. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that perforin granules were polarized at the apical pole of IH-NK cells. The presence of CD107a and perforin in IH-NK cells demonstrated that NK cells exerted a cytolytic activity at the site of infection. Importantly, IH-NK cell functions from HCV-infected patients were inducible by specific exogenous stimulations. Upon ex vivo K562 target cell stimulations, the number of degranulating NK cells was significantly increased in the pool of IH-NK cells compared to circulating NK cells. Interestingly, after stimulation, the frequency of IFN-γ-producing IH-NK cells in HCV-infected patients was significantly higher at early stage of inflammation whereas the spontaneous IH-NK cell degranulation activity was significantly impaired in patients with highest inflammation and fibrosis Metavir scores. Our study highlights that some IH-NK cells in HCV-infected patients are able to produce INF-γ and degranulate and that those two activities depend on liver environment including the severity of liver injury. Thus, we conclude that critical roles of IH-NK cells have to be taken into account in the course of the liver pathogenesis associated to chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Fugier
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
| | - Hélène Marche
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
| | - Marie-Ange Thélu
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
- CHU-Grenoble, Clinique Universitaire d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Grenoble, France
| | - Zuzana Macek Jílková
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Tania Dufeu-Duchesne
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
- CHU-Grenoble, Clinique Universitaire d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Grenoble, France
| | - Vincent Leroy
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
- CHU-Grenoble, Clinique Universitaire d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Grenoble, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Zarski
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
- CHU-Grenoble, Clinique Universitaire d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Grenoble, France
| | - Nathalie Sturm
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
- CHU-Grenoble, Département d’Anatomie et de Cytologie Pathologiques, Grenoble, France
| | - Patrice N. Marche
- INSERM, U823, Grenoble, France
- Université Joseph Fourier, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
- CHU-Grenoble, Clinique Universitaire d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Grenoble, France
- * E-mail:
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Hepatitis C virus impairs natural killer cell-mediated augmentation of complement synthesis. J Virol 2013; 88:2564-71. [PMID: 24352446 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02988-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Natural killer (NK) cells and the complement system play critical roles in the first line of defense against pathogens. The synthesis of complement components C4 and C3 is transcriptionally downregulated by hepatitis C virus (HCV) core and NS5A proteins, and this negative regulation is apparent in chronically HCV-infected patients. In this study, we have examined the potential contribution of an NK cell line as a model in regulating complement synthesis. Coculture of NK cells (NK3.3) with human hepatoma cells (Huh7.5) expressing HCV core or NS5A protein led to a significant increase in C4 and C3 complement synthesis via enhanced specific transcription factors. Reestablishment of complement protein expression was found to be mediated by direct interaction between NKG2D on NK cells and the hepatocyte protein major histocompatibility complex class I-related chains A and B (MICA/B) and not to be associated with specific cytokine signaling events. On the other hand, C4 and C3 synthesis remained impaired in a coculture of NK cells and Huh7.5 cells infected with cell culture-grown HCV. The association between these two cell types through NKG2D and MICA/B was examined further, with MICA/B expression in HCV-infected hepatocytes found to remain inhibited during coculture. Further experiments revealed that the HCV NS2 and NS5B proteins are responsible for the HCV-associated decrease in MICA/B. These results suggest that HCV disables a key receptor ligand in infected hepatoma cells, thereby inhibiting the ability of infected cells to respond to stimuli from NK cells to positively regulate complement synthesis. IMPORTANCE The complement system contributes to the protection of the host from virus infection. However, the involvement of complement in viral hepatitis has not been well documented. Whether NK cells affect complement component expression in HCV-infected hepatocytes remains unknown. Here, we have shown how HCV subverts the ability of NK cells to positively mediate complement protein expression.
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Ahlenstiel G. The natural killer cell response to HCV infection. Immune Netw 2013; 13:168-76. [PMID: 24198741 PMCID: PMC3817297 DOI: 10.4110/in.2013.13.5.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Revised: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/03/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last few years major progress has been made in better understanding the role of natural killer (NK) cells in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. This includes multiple pathways by which HCV impairs or limits NK cells activation. Based on current genetic and functional data, a picture is emerging where only a rapid and strong NK cell response early on during infection which results in strong T cell responses and possible subsequent clearance, whereas chronic HCV infection is associated with dysfunctional or biased NK cells phenotypes. The hallmark of this NK cell dysfunction is persistent activation promoting ongoing hepatitis and hepatocyte damage, while being unable to clear HCV due to impaired IFN-γ responses. Furthermore, some data suggests certain chronically activated subsets that are NKp46high may be particularly active against hepatic stellate cells, a key player in hepatic fibrogenesis. Finally, the role of NK cells during HCV therapy, HCV recurrence after liver transplant and hepatocellular carcinoma are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golo Ahlenstiel
- Storr Liver Unit, Westmead Millennium Institute and Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Rehermann B. Pathogenesis of chronic viral hepatitis: differential roles of T cells and NK cells. Nat Med 2013; 19:859-68. [PMID: 23836236 DOI: 10.1038/nm.3251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 357] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections account for 57% of cases of liver cirrhosis and 78% of cases of primary liver cancer worldwide and cause a million deaths per year. Although HBV and HCV differ in their genome structures, replication strategies and life cycles, they have common features, including their noncytopathic nature and their capacity to induce chronic liver disease, which is thought to be immune mediated. However, the rate of disease progression from chronic hepatitis to cirrhosis varies greatly among infected individuals, and the factors that regulate it are largely unknown. This review summarizes our current understanding of the roles of antigen-specific and nonspecific immune cells in the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis B and C and discusses recent findings that identify natural killer cells as regulators of T cell function and liver inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Rehermann
- Immunology Section, Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, US National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
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Zhang S, Saha B, Kodys K, Szabo G. IFN-γ production by human natural killer cells in response to HCV-infected hepatoma cells is dependent on accessory cells. J Hepatol 2013; 59:442-9. [PMID: 23665181 PMCID: PMC3760030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Revised: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), a cytokine produced by activated natural killer cells (NK) and T lymphocytes, is an important regulator of innate and adaptive immunity during hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, the cellular sources and mechanisms of IFN-γ induction in HCV-infection are not fully understood. METHODS We cultured normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with different populations of immune cells and JFH-1 HCV-infected HuH7.5 (JFH-1/HuH7.5) cells. RESULTS We found that PBMCs produced large amounts of IFN-γ after co-culture with JFH-1/HuH7.5 cells. Using intracellular cytokine staining, we confirmed that NK cells and NKT cells (to a lesser extent) were the major IFN-γ producers within PBMCs. Purified NK/NKT cells did not produce IFN-γ in response to JFH-1/HuH7.5 cells and depletion of accessory (HLA-DR(+)) cells prevented IFN-γ induction in PBMCs. Through selective cell depletion of dendritic cells or monocytes from PBMCs, we determined that plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) were indispensable for NK-IFN-γ induction and the presence of monocytes was needed for maximal NK-IFN-γ induction. We further revealed that NK-IFN-γ induction depended on pDC-derived IFN-α while other IFN-γ inducing cytokines, IL-12, and IL-18, played minimal roles. Close contact between JFH-1/HuH7.5 cells and NK cells was required for IFN-γ production and monocyte-derived IL-15 significantly augmented IFN-γ induction. CONCLUSIONS We discovered a novel mechanism where NK cells interact with pDCs and monocytes, efficiently producing IFN-γ in response to HCV-infected cells. This indicates that co-operation between NK cells and accessory cells is critical for IFN-γ production and regulation of immunity during HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuye Zhang
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 10605,Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Institute of Medical Microbiology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Banishree Saha
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 10605
| | - Karen Kodys
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 10605
| | - Gyongyi Szabo
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 10605
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Golden-Mason L, Rosen HR. Natural killer cells: multifaceted players with key roles in hepatitis C immunity. Immunol Rev 2013; 255:68-81. [PMID: 23947348 PMCID: PMC3765000 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2013] [Revised: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer cells (NKs) are involved in every stage of hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection, from protection against HCV acquisition and resolution in the acute phase to treatment-induced clearance. In addition to their direct antiviral actions, NKs are involved in the induction and priming of appropriate downstream T-cell responses. In the setting of chronic HCV, overall NK cell levels are decreased, subset distribution is altered, and changes in NK receptor (NKR) expression have been demonstrated, although the contribution of individual NKRs to viral clearance or persistence remains to be clarified. Enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity accompanied by insufficient interferon-γ production may promote liver damage in the setting of chronic infection. Treatment-induced clearance is associated with activation of NK cells, and it will be of interest to monitor NK cell responses to triple therapy. Activated NK cells also have anti-fibrotic properties, and the same hepatic NK cell populations that are actively involved in control of HCV may also be involved in control of HCV-associated liver damage. We still have much to learn, in particular: how do liver-derived NKs influence the outcome of HCV infection? Do NK receptors recognize HCV-specific components? And, are HCV-specific memory NK populations generated?
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Golden-Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hepatitis C Center, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver (UCD), Aurora, CO, USA
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Holder KA, Stapleton SN, Gallant ME, Russell RS, Grant MD. Hepatitis C virus-infected cells downregulate NKp30 and inhibit ex vivo NK cell functions. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 191:3308-18. [PMID: 23960237 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1300164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) successfully evades the immune system and establishes chronic infection in ∼80% of cases. Immune evasion may involve modulating NK cell functions. Therefore, we developed a short-term assay to assess immediate effects of HCV-infected cells on ex vivo NK cytotoxicity and cytokine production. Natural cytotoxicity, Ab-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity, IFN-γ production, and TNF-α production were all significantly inhibited by short-term direct exposure to HCV-infected hepatoma-derived Huh-7.5 cells. Inhibition required cell-to-cell contact and increased together with multiplicity of infection and HCV protein levels. Blocking potential interaction between HCV E2 and NK CD81 did not abrogate NK cell inhibition mediated by HCV-infected cells. We observed no change in expression levels of NKG2D, NKG2A, NKp46, or CD16 on NK cells exposed to HCV-infected Huh-7.5 cells for 5 h or of human histocompatibility-linked leukocyte Ag E on HCV-infected compared with uninfected Huh-7.5 cells. Inhibition of ex vivo NK functions did correspond with reduced surface expression of the natural cytotoxicity receptor NKp30, and downregulation of NKp30 was functionally reflected in reduced anti-NKp30 redirected lysis of P815 cells. Infection of Huh-7.5 cells with HCV JFH1(T) increased surface binding of an NKp30-IgG1 Fcγ fusion protein, suggesting upregulation of an antagonistic NKp30 ligand on HCV-infected cells. Our assay demonstrates rapid inhibition of critical NK cell functions by HCV-infected cells. Similar localized effects in vivo may contribute to establishment of chronic HCV infection and associated phenotypic and functional changes in the NK population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla A Holder
- Division of BioMedical Sciences, Immunology and Infectious Diseases Program, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland A1B 3V6, Canada
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Montaldo E, Del Zotto G, Della Chiesa M, Mingari MC, Moretta A, De Maria A, Moretta L. Human NK cell receptors/markers: a tool to analyze NK cell development, subsets and function. Cytometry A 2013; 83:702-13. [PMID: 23650273 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.22302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Revised: 03/22/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are important components of the innate immunity and play a key role in host defense by virtue of their ability to release cytokines and to mediate cytolytic activity against tumor cells and virus-infected cells. NK cells were first described more than 30 years ago on the basis of their peculiar functional capabilities. Subsequently, thanks to the production of a variety of monoclonal antibodies, it became possible to identify surface receptors and markers expressed by NK cells as well as to characterize their functional properties. Here, we provide a brief historical overview about the discovery of human NK cell receptors and we delineate the main phenotypic features of differentiating and mature NK cells in healthy donors as well as their alterations in certain pathologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Montaldo
- Department of Experimental Medicine-DIMES, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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Bozzano F, Marras F, Biassoni R, De Maria A. Natural killer cells in hepatitis C virus infection. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2013; 8:775-88. [PMID: 23167689 DOI: 10.1586/eci.12.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection induces the long-term risk of liver cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma and in adults represents the most common cause of liver transplantation. Natural killer (NK) cells participate in innate immune responses with efficient direct antitumor and antiviral defense. Over the years, their complex interaction with downstream adaptive responses and with the regulation of immune responses has been increasingly recognized. Considerable advances have been made particularly in understanding the role of NK cells in the pathophysiology of HCV infection and their possible use as biological markers for clinical purposes. This review summarizes the available data on the role of NK cells in the natural history of HCV infection and their role in the outcome of treatment. The main objective of this review is to summarize recent advancements in the basic understanding of NK cell function highlighting their possible translational use in clinical practice. An integrated practical view on the possible use of currently available predictive immunogenetic and NK cell functional tests is provided, to support clinical management choices for optimal treatment of patients with both standard and new drug regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Bozzano
- Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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