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Di Ludovico A, Rinaldi M, Mainieri F, Di Michele S, Girlando V, Ciarelli F, La Bella S, Chiarelli F, Attanasi M, Mauro A, Bizzi E, Brucato A, Breda L. Molecular Mechanisms of Fetal and Neonatal Lupus: A Narrative Review of an Autoimmune Disease Transferal across the Placenta. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5224. [PMID: 38791261 PMCID: PMC11120786 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105224] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This study, conducted by searching keywords such as "maternal lupus", "neonatal lupus", and "congenital heart block" in databases including PubMed and Scopus, provides a detailed narrative review on fetal and neonatal lupus. Autoantibodies like anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB may cross the placenta and cause complications in neonates, such as congenital heart block (CHB). Management options involve hydroxychloroquine, which is able to counteract some of the adverse events, although the drug needs to be used carefully because of its impact on the QTc interval. Advanced pacing strategies for neonates with CHB, especially in severe forms like hydrops, are also assessed. This review emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary care by rheumatologists, obstetricians, and pediatricians in order to achieve the best maternal and neonatal health in lupus pregnancies. This multidisciplinary approach seeks to improve the outcomes and management of the disease, decreasing the burden on mothers and their infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Di Ludovico
- Paediatric Department, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.L.); (F.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.); (S.L.B.); (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Marta Rinaldi
- Paediatric Department, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, Aylesbury-Thames Valley Deanery, Aylesbury HP21 8AL, UK;
| | - Francesca Mainieri
- Paediatric Department, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.L.); (F.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.); (S.L.B.); (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Stefano Di Michele
- Department of Surgical Science, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria Blocco I, Asse didattico Medicina P2, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Virginia Girlando
- Paediatric Department, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.L.); (F.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.); (S.L.B.); (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Francesca Ciarelli
- Paediatric Department, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.L.); (F.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.); (S.L.B.); (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Saverio La Bella
- Paediatric Department, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.L.); (F.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.); (S.L.B.); (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Francesco Chiarelli
- Paediatric Department, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.L.); (F.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.); (S.L.B.); (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Marina Attanasi
- Paediatric Department, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.L.); (F.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.); (S.L.B.); (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Angela Mauro
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department of Childhood and Developmental Medicine, Fatebenefratelli—Sacco Hospital, Piazzale Principessa Clotilde, 20121 Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Bizzi
- Division of Internal Medicine, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, University of Milan, 20121 Milan, Italy; (E.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Antonio Brucato
- Division of Internal Medicine, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, University of Milan, 20121 Milan, Italy; (E.B.); (A.B.)
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Sacco”, University of Milano, Ospedale Fatebenefratelli, 20121 Milan, Italy
| | - Luciana Breda
- Paediatric Department, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.L.); (F.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.); (S.L.B.); (F.C.); (M.A.)
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Huang Y, Deng J, Liu J, Yang F, He Y. Autoimmune congenital heart block: a case report and review of the literature related to pathogenesis and pregnancy management. Arthritis Res Ther 2024; 26:8. [PMID: 38167489 PMCID: PMC10759413 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-023-03246-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune congenital heart block (ACHB) is a passively acquired immune-mediated disease characterized by the presence of maternal antibodies against components of the Ro/SSA and La/SSB ribonucleoprotein complex that mainly affects the cardiac conducting system. ACHB occurs in 2% of women with positive anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies and causes a high risk of intrauterine fetal death, neonatal mortality, and long-term sequelae. In this review, we first describe a case of ACHB to provide preliminary knowledge. Then, we discuss the possible pathogenic mechanisms of ACHB; summarize the pregnancy management of patients with positive anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies and/or rheumatic diseases, the prevention of ACHB, and the treatment of ACHB fetuses; and propose routine screening of these antibodies for the general population. Careful follow-up, which consists of monitoring the fetal heart rate, is feasible and reassuring for pregnant women with positive anti-Ro/SSA and/or anti-La/SSB antibodies to lower the risk of ACHB in fetuses. Moreover, maternal administration of hydroxychloroquine may be useful in preventing ACHB in pregnant women with anti-Ro/SSA and/or anti-La/SSB antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 183, Zhongshan Avenue West, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Academy of Orthopedics, Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jialin Deng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 183, Zhongshan Avenue West, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Academy of Orthopedics, Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghua Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fangyuan Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 183, Zhongshan Avenue West, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Academy of Orthopedics, Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yi He
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 183, Zhongshan Avenue West, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Academy of Orthopedics, Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China.
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Su X, Wang L, Ma N, Yang X, Liu C, Yang F, Li J, Yi X, Xing Y. Immune heterogeneity in cardiovascular diseases from a single-cell perspective. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1057870. [PMID: 37180791 PMCID: PMC10167030 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1057870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
A variety of immune cell subsets occupy different niches in the cardiovascular system, causing changes in the structure and function of the heart and vascular system, and driving the progress of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The immune cells infiltrating the injury site are highly diverse and integrate into a broad dynamic immune network that controls the dynamic changes of CVDs. Due to technical limitations, the effects and molecular mechanisms of these dynamic immune networks on CVDs have not been fully revealed. With recent advances in single-cell technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, systematic interrogation of the immune cell subsets is feasible and will provide insights into the way we understand the integrative behavior of immune populations. We no longer lightly ignore the role of individual cells, especially certain highly heterogeneous or rare subpopulations. We summarize the phenotypic diversity of immune cell subsets and their significance in three CVDs of atherosclerosis, myocardial ischemia and heart failure. We believe that such a review could enhance our understanding of how immune heterogeneity drives the progression of CVDs, help to elucidate the regulatory roles of immune cell subsets in disease, and thus guide the development of new immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Su
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang’anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Xingtai People’s Hospital, Xingtai, China
| | - Ning Ma
- Department of Breast Surgery, Dezhou Second People’s Hospital, Dezhou, China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Fangshan Hospital Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Can Liu
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang’anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Yang
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang’anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Li
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang’anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Yi
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Huimin Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanwei Xing
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang’anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
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Firl CEM, Halushka M, Fraser N, Masson M, Cuneo BF, Saxena A, Clancy R, Buyon J. Contribution of S100A4-expressing fibroblasts to anti-SSA/Ro-associated atrioventricular nodal calcification and soluble S100A4 as a biomarker of clinical severity. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1114808. [PMID: 37090702 PMCID: PMC10117984 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1114808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fibrosis and dystrophic calcification disrupting conduction tissue architecture are histopathological lesions characterizing cardiac manifestations of neonatal lupus (cardiac-NL) associated with maternal anti-SSA/Ro antibodies. Objectives Increased appreciation of heterogeneity in fibroblasts encourages re-examination of existing models with the consideration of multiple fibroblast subtypes (and their unique functional differences) in mind. This study addressed fibroblast heterogeneity by examining expression of α-Smooth Muscle Actin (myofibroblasts) and of S100 Calcium-Binding Protein A4 (S100A4). Methods Using a previously established model of rheumatic scarring/fibrosis in vitro, supported by the evaluation of cord blood from cardiac-NL neonates and their healthy (anti-SSA/Ro-exposed) counterparts, and autopsy tissue from fetuses dying with cardiac-NL, the current study was initiated to more clearly define and distinguish the S100A4-positive fibroblast in the fetal cardiac environment. Results S100A4 immunostaining was observed in 4 cardiac-NL hearts with positional identity in the conduction system at regions of dystrophic calcification but not fibrotic zones, the latter containing only myofibroblasts. In vitro, fibroblasts cultured with supernatants of macrophages transfected with hY3 (noncoding ssRNA) differentiated into myofibroblasts or S100A4+ fibroblasts. Myofibroblasts expressed collagen while S100A4+ fibroblasts expressed pro-angiogenic cytokines and proteases that degrade collagen. Cord blood levels of S100A4 in anti-SSA/Ro-exposed neonates tracked disease severity and, in discordant twins, distinguished affected from unaffected. Conclusions These findings position the S100A4+ fibroblast alongside the canonical myofibroblast in the pathogenesis of cardiac-NL. Neonatal S100A4 levels support a novel biomarker of poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina E. M. Firl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Marc Halushka
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nicola Fraser
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mala Masson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Bettina F. Cuneo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschultz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Amit Saxena
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Robert Clancy
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jill Buyon
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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Sheng X, Song X, Xiong Y, Ren T, Chang X, Wu J, Cao J, Cheng T, Wang M. Maternal and infant outcomes of pregnancy associated with anti-SSA/RO antibodies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2023; 21:22. [PMID: 36870970 PMCID: PMC9985242 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-023-00803-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The relationship between anti-SSA/RO antibodies and pregnancy has been reported previously, and we aim to visualize the rates of maternal and infant outcomes with anti-SSA/RO. METHODS We systematically searched records from Pubmed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science databases, pooled incidence rates of adverse outcomes of pregnancy, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed with RStudio. RESULTS A total of 890 records comprising 1675 patients and 1920 pregnancies were searched from the electronic databases. For maternal outcomes, the pooled estimate rates were 4% for termination of pregnancy, 5% for spontaneous abortion, 26% for preterm labor, and 50% for cesarean operation. While for fetal outcomes, the pooled estimate rates were 4% for perinatal death, 3% for intrauterine growth retardation, 6% for endocardial fibroelastosis, 6% for dilated cardiomyopathy, 7% for congenital heart block, 12% for congenital heart block recurrence, 19% for cutaneous neonatal lupus erythematosus, 12% for hepatobiliary disease and 16% for hematological manifestations. A subgroup analysis of congenital heart block prevalence was performed, diagnostic method and study region were found to affect heterogeneity to some extent. CONCLUSION Cumulative analysis of data from real-world studies confirmed adverse pregnancy outcomes of women with anti-SSA/RO, serves as a reference and a guide for the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of these women, thereby enhancing maternal and infant health. Additional studies with real-world cohorts are required to validate these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangrui Sheng
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaohui Song
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Xiong
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tian Ren
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Chang
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Tao Cheng
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Mingjun Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.188 Shizi St, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China.
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Congenital atrioventricular heart block: From diagnosis to treatment. Rev Port Cardiol 2022; 41:231-240. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repc.2019.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Hedlund M, Thorlacius GE, Ivanchenko M, Ottosson V, Kyriakidis N, Lagnefeldt L, Tingström J, Sirsjö A, Bengtsson AA, Aronsson E, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Ronnblom L, Bergman G, Espinosa A, Sonesson SE, Eloranta ML, Wahren-Herlenius M. Type I IFN system activation in newborns exposed to Ro/SSA and La/SSB autoantibodies in utero. RMD Open 2021; 6:rmdopen-2019-000989. [PMID: 31958275 PMCID: PMC7046945 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2019-000989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In utero exposure of the fetus to Ro/La autoantibodies may lead to congenital heart block (CHB). In the mother, these autoantibodies are associated with activation of the type I interferon (IFN)-system. As maternal autoantibodies are transferred to the fetus during pregnancy, we investigated whether the type I IFN-system is activated also in newborns of anti-Ro/La positive mothers, and whether fetal IFN activation is affected by maternal immunomodulatory treatment. METHODS Blood drawn at birth from anti-Ro/La positive mothers, their newborns and healthy control pairs was separated into plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). PBMC were analysed directly or cultured. mRNA expression was analysed by microarrays, cell surface markers by flow cytometry, and IFNα levels by immunoassays. RESULTS We observed increased expression of IFN-regulated genes and elevated plasma IFNα levels not only in anti-Ro/La positive women, but also in their newborns. CD14+ monocytes of both anti-Ro/La positive mothers and their neonates showed increased expression of Sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin-1, indicating cellular activation. Notably, the IFN score of neonates born to mothers receiving immunomodulatory treatment was similar to that of controls, despite persistent IFN activation in the mothers. In both maternal and neonatal PBMC, IFNα production was induced when cells were cultured with anti-Ro/La positive plasma. CONCLUSIONS Ro/La autoantibody-exposed neonates at risk of CHB have signs of an activated immune system with an IFN signature. This study further demonstrates that neonatal cells can produce IFNα when exposed to autoantibody-containing plasma, and that maternal immunomodulatory treatment may diminish the expression of IFN-regulated genes in the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Hedlund
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gudny Ella Thorlacius
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Margarita Ivanchenko
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vijole Ottosson
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nikolaos Kyriakidis
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina, Grupo de Investigación en Biotecnología Aplicada a Biomedicina (BIOMED), Universidad de Las Américas (UDLA), Quito, Ecuador
| | - Linda Lagnefeldt
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joanna Tingström
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Allan Sirsjö
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro Univeristy, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Anders A Bengtsson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Emma Aronsson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Ronnblom
- Rheumatology, Department of Medical Sciences, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Bergman
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexander Espinosa
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sven-Erik Sonesson
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maija-Leena Eloranta
- Rheumatology, Department of Medical Sciences, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marie Wahren-Herlenius
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Ambrosi A, Thorlacius GE, Sonesson SE, Wahren-Herlenius M. Interferons and innate immune activation in autoimmune congenital heart block. Scand J Immunol 2021; 93:e12995. [PMID: 33188653 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune congenital heart block (CHB) may develop in foetuses of women carrying anti-Ro/SSA and La/SSB autoantibodies and is characterized by disruption of signal conduction at the atrioventricular (AV) node, resulting in partial or complete AV block. If not fatal in utero, complete CHB typically requires lifelong cardiac pacing. No treatment has so far been unequivocally demonstrated to prevent or treat autoimmune CHB, and the relatively low incidence (1%-5%) and recurrence (12%-16%) rates of second/third-degree AV block add to the complexity of managing pregnancies in women with anti-Ro/La antibodies. Altogether, a better understanding of events leading to development of autoimmune CHB is needed to improve surveillance and treatment strategies. In the past decade, studies have started to look beyond the role of maternal autoantibodies in disease pathogenesis to assess other contributing factors such as foetal genetics and, more recently, immune responses in foetuses and neonates of anti-Ro/La antibody-positive women. In this review, we provide an update on the epidemiology, clinical presentation and current treatment approaches of autoimmune CHB, summarize the previously proposed pathogenic mechanisms implicating maternal autoantibodies, and discuss the recent findings of type I interferon (IFN) and innate immune activation in foetuses with autoimmune CHB and in neonates of anti-Ro/La antibody-positive mothers, and how these may contribute to autoimmune CHB pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelie Ambrosi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gudny Ella Thorlacius
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sven-Erik Sonesson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marie Wahren-Herlenius
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Broegelmann Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Riemekasten G, Petersen F, Heidecke H. What Makes Antibodies Against G Protein-Coupled Receptors so Special? A Novel Concept to Understand Chronic Diseases. Front Immunol 2020; 11:564526. [PMID: 33384684 PMCID: PMC7770155 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.564526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Expressions of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) on immune and tissue resident cells are the consequence of the cellular environment, which is highly variable. As discussed here, antibodies directed to GPCR (GPCR abs), their levels and correlations to other abs, serve as biomarkers for various diseases. They also could reflect the individual interplay between the environment and the immune system. Thus, GPCR abs could display pathogenic chronic conditions and could help to identify disease-related pathways. Moreover, by acting as ligands to their corresponding receptors, GPCR abs modulate autoimmune as well as non-autoimmune diseases. This article introduces GPCR abs as drivers for diseases by their capability to induce a specific signaling and by determining immune cell homeostasis. The identification of the individual GPCR ab function is challenging but might be pivotal in the comprehension of the aetiology of diseases. This, hopefully, will lead to the identification of novel therapeutic strategies. This article provides an overview about concepts and recent developments in research. Accordingly, GPCR abs could represent ideal candidates for precision medicine. Here, we introduce the term antibodiom to cover the network of abs with GPCR abs as prominent players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Riemekasten
- Clinic of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Research Center Borstel, Division of Pulmonary Immune Diseases, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
- Research Center Borstel, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
- Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
| | - Frank Petersen
- Research Center Borstel, Division of Pulmonary Immune Diseases, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
- Research Center Borstel, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
- Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
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Ivanchenko M, Thorlacius GE, Hedlund M, Ottosson V, Meneghel L, Björkander S, Ossoinak A, Tingström J, Bremme K, Sverremark-Ekström E, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Sonesson SE, Chemin K, Wahren-Herlenius M. Natural killer cells and type II interferon in Ro/SSA and La/SSB autoantibody-exposed newborns at risk of congenital heart block. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 80:194-202. [PMID: 33004330 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-216786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Congenital heart block (CHB) with immune cell infiltration develops in the fetus after exposure to maternal Ro/La autoantibodies. CHB-related serology has been extensively studied, but reports on immune-cell profiles of anti-Ro/La-exposed neonates are lacking. In the current study, we characterised circulating immune-cell populations in anti-Ro/La+mothers and newborns, and explored potential downstream effects of skewed neonatal cell populations. METHODS In total, blood from mothers (n=43) and neonates (n=66) was sampled at birth from anti-Ro/La+ (n=36) and control (n=30) pregnancies with or without rheumatic disease and CHB. Flow cytometry, microarrays and ELISA were used for characterising cells and plasma. RESULTS Similar to non-pregnant systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren-patients, anti-Ro/La+mothers had altered B-cell subset frequencies, relative T-cell lymphopenia and lower natural killer (NK)-cell frequencies. Surprisingly, their anti-Ro/La exposed neonates presented higher frequencies of CD56dimCD16hi NK cells (p<0.01), but no other cell frequency differences compared with controls. Type I and II interferon (IFN) gene-signatures were revealed in neonates of anti-Ro/La+ pregnancy, and exposure of fetal cardiomyocytes to type I IFN induced upregulation of several NK-cell chemoattractants and activating ligands. Intracellular flow cytometry revealed IFNγ production by NK cells, CD8+ and CD4+ T cells in anti-Ro/La exposed neonates. IFNγ was also detectable in their plasma. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates an increased frequency of NK cells in anti-Ro/La exposed neonates, footprints of type I and II IFN and an upregulation of ligands activating NK cells in fetal cardiac cells after type I IFN exposure. These novel observations demonstrate innate immune activation in neonates of anti-Ro/La+pregnancy, which could contribute to the risk of CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Ivanchenko
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gudny Ella Thorlacius
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Hedlund
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vijole Ottosson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lauro Meneghel
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophia Björkander
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Amina Ossoinak
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joanna Tingström
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katarina Bremme
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Sverremark-Ekström
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sven-Erik Sonesson
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karine Chemin
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marie Wahren-Herlenius
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden .,Broegelmann Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Hordaland, Norway
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11
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Suryawanshi H, Clancy R, Morozov P, Halushka MK, Buyon JP, Tuschl T. Cell atlas of the foetal human heart and implications for autoimmune-mediated congenital heart block. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 116:1446-1457. [PMID: 31589297 PMCID: PMC7314636 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvz257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Investigating human heart development and applying this to deviations resulting in disease is incomplete without molecular characterization of the cell types required for normal functioning. We investigated foetal human heart single-cell transcriptomes from mid-gestational healthy and anti-SSA/Ro associated congenital heart block (CHB) samples. METHODS AND RESULTS Three healthy foetal human hearts (19th to 22nd week of gestation) and one foetal heart affected by autoimmune-associated CHB (21st week of gestation) were subjected to enzymatic dissociation using the Langendorff preparation to obtain single-cell suspensions followed by 10× Genomics- and Illumina-based single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq). In addition to the myocytes, fibroblasts, immune cells, and other minor cell types, previously uncharacterized diverse sub-populations of endothelial cells were identified in the human heart. Differential gene expression analysis revealed increased and heterogeneous interferon responses in varied cell types of the CHB heart compared with the healthy controls. In addition, we also identified matrisome transcripts enriched in CHB stromal cells that potentially contribute to extracellular matrix deposition and subsequent fibrosis. CONCLUSION These data provide an information-rich resource to further our understanding of human heart development, which, as illustrated by comparison to a heart exposed to a maternal autoimmune environment, can be leveraged to provide insight into the pathogenesis of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Suryawanshi
- Laboratory of RNA Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 186, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Robert Clancy
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Pavel Morozov
- Laboratory of RNA Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 186, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Marc K Halushka
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Jill P Buyon
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Thomas Tuschl
- Laboratory of RNA Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 186, New York, NY 10065, USA
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12
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Abstract
Until recently, autoimmune disease research has primarily been focused on elucidating the role of the adaptive immune system. In the past decade or so, the role of the innate immune system in the pathogenesis of autoimmunity has increasingly been realized. Recent findings have elucidated paradigm-shifting concepts, for example, the implications of "trained immunity" and a dysbiotic microbiome in the susceptibility of predisposed individuals to clinical autoimmunity. In addition, the application of modern technologies such as the quantum dot (Qdot) system and 'Omics' (e.g., genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) data-processing tools has proven fruitful in revisiting mechanisms underlying autoimmune pathogenesis and in identifying novel therapeutic targets. This review highlights recent findings discussed at the American Autoimmune Related Disease Association (AARDA) 2019 colloquium. The findings covering autoimmune diseases and autoinflammatory diseases illustrate how new developments in common innate immune pathways can contribute to the better understanding and management of these immune-mediated disorders.
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13
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Clancy RM, Halushka M, Rasmussen SE, Lhakhang T, Chang M, Buyon JP. Siglec-1 Macrophages and the Contribution of IFN to the Development of Autoimmune Congenital Heart Block. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 202:48-55. [PMID: 30518570 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Given that diseases associated with anti-SSA/Ro autoantibodies, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren syndrome, are linked with an upregulation of IFN and type I IFN-stimulated genes, including sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin 1 (Siglec-1), a receptor on monocytes/macrophages, recent attention has focused on a potential role for IFN and IFN-stimulated genes in the pathogenesis of congenital heart block (CHB). Accordingly, three approaches were leveraged to address the association of IFN, IFN-stimulated genes, and the phenotype of macrophages in affected fetal cardiac tissue: 1) cultured healthy human macrophages transfected with hY3, an anti-SSA/Ro-associated ssRNA, 2) RNA isolated from freshly sorted human leukocytes/macrophages after Langendorff perfusion of three fetal hearts dying with CHB and three healthy gestational age-matched hearts, and 3) autopsy tissue from three additional human CHB hearts and one healthy heart. TLR ligation of macrophages with hY3 led to the upregulation of a panel of IFN transcripts, including SIGLEC1, a result corroborated using quantitative PCR. Using independent and agnostic bioinformatics approaches, CD45+CD11c+ and CD45+CD11c- human leukocytes flow sorted from the CHB hearts highly expressed type I IFN response genes inclusive of SIGLEC1. Furthermore, Siglec-1 expression was identified in the septal region of several affected fetal hearts. These data now provide a link between IFN, IFN-stimulated genes, and the inflammatory and possibly fibrosing components of CHB, positioning Siglec-1-positive macrophages as integral to the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Clancy
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016;
| | - Marc Halushka
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205; and
| | - Sara E Rasmussen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016
| | - Tenzin Lhakhang
- Applied Bioinformatics Laboratories, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016
| | - Miao Chang
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016
| | - Jill P Buyon
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016
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14
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Lindsey ML, Gray GA, Wood SK, Curran-Everett D. Statistical considerations in reporting cardiovascular research. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2018; 315:H303-H313. [PMID: 30028200 PMCID: PMC6139626 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00309.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The problem of inadequate statistical reporting is long standing and widespread in the biomedical literature, including in cardiovascular physiology. Although guidelines for reporting statistics have been available in clinical medicine for some time, there are currently no guidelines specific to cardiovascular physiology. To assess the need for guidelines, we determined the type and frequency of statistical tests and procedures currently used in the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology. A PubMed search for articles published in the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology between January 1, 2017, and October 6, 2017, provided a final sample of 146 articles evaluated for methods used and 38 articles for indepth analysis. The t-test and ANOVA accounted for 71% (212 of 300 articles) of the statistical tests performed. Of six categories of post hoc tests, Bonferroni and Tukey tests were used in 63% (62 of 98 articles). There was an overall lack in details provided by authors publishing in the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology, and we compiled a list of recommended minimum reporting guidelines to aid authors in preparing manuscripts. Following these guidelines could substantially improve the quality of statistical reports and enhance data rigor and reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merry L Lindsey
- Mississippi Center for Heart Research, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi.,Research Service, G. V. (Sonny) Montgomery Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Gillian A Gray
- British Heart Foundation/University Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh , Edinburgh , United Kingdom
| | - Susan K Wood
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine , Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Douglas Curran-Everett
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, National Jewish Health , Denver, Colorado.,Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Denver , Denver, Colorado
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15
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Altara R, Zouein FA, Brandão RD, Bajestani SN, Cataliotti A, Booz GW. In Silico Analysis of Differential Gene Expression in Three Common Rat Models of Diastolic Dysfunction. Front Cardiovasc Med 2018; 5:11. [PMID: 29556499 PMCID: PMC5850854 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Standard therapies for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) have been unsuccessful, demonstrating that the contribution of the underlying diastolic dysfunction pathophysiology differs from that of systolic dysfunction in heart failure and currently is far from being understood. Complicating the investigation of HFpEF is the contribution of several comorbidities. Here, we selected three established rat models of diastolic dysfunction defined by three major risk factors associated with HFpEF and researched their commonalities and differences. The top differentially expressed genes in the left ventricle of Dahl salt sensitive (Dahl/SS), spontaneous hypertensive heart failure (SHHF), and diabetes 1 induced HFpEF models were derived from published data in Gene Expression Omnibus and used for a comprehensive interpretation of the underlying pathophysiological context of each model. The diversity of the underlying transcriptomic of the heart of each model is clearly observed by the different panel of top regulated genes: the diabetic model has 20 genes in common with the Dahl/SS and 15 with the SHHF models. Advanced analytics performed in Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA®) revealed that Dahl/SS heart tissue transcripts triggered by upstream regulators lead to dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophy of heart, arrhythmia, and failure of heart. In the heart of SHHF, a total of 26 genes were closely linked to cardiovascular disease including cardiotoxicity, pericarditis, ST-elevated myocardial infarction, and dilated cardiomyopathy. IPA Upstream Regulator analyses revealed that protection of cardiomyocytes is hampered by inhibition of the ERBB2 plasma membrane-bound receptor tyrosine kinases. Cardioprotective markers such as natriuretic peptide A (NPPA), heat shock 27 kDa protein 1 (HSPB1), and angiogenin (ANG) were upregulated in the diabetes 1 induced model; however, the model showed a different underlying mechanism with a majority of the regulated genes involved in metabolic disorders. In conclusion, our findings suggest that multiple mechanisms may contribute to diastolic dysfunction and HFpEF, and thus drug therapies may need to be guided more by phenotypic characteristics of the cardiac remodeling events than by the underlying molecular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Altara
- Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,KG Jebsen Center for Cardiac Research, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Fouad A Zouein
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rita Dias Brandão
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Saeed N Bajestani
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Alessandro Cataliotti
- Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,KG Jebsen Center for Cardiac Research, Oslo, Norway
| | - George W Booz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
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