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D’Onghia D, Colangelo D, Bellan M, Tonello S, Puricelli C, Virgilio E, Apostolo D, Minisini R, Ferreira LL, Sozzi L, Vincenzi F, Cantello R, Comi C, Pirisi M, Vecchio D, Sainaghi PP. Gas6/TAM system as potential biomarker for multiple sclerosis prognosis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1362960. [PMID: 38745659 PMCID: PMC11091300 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1362960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The protein growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6) and its tyrosine kinase receptors Tyro-3, Axl, and Mer (TAM) are ubiquitous proteins involved in regulating inflammation and apoptotic body clearance. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system leading to progressive and irreversible disability if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Gas6 and TAM receptors have been associated with neuronal remyelination and stimulation of oligodendrocyte survival. However, few data are available regarding clinical correlation in MS patients. We aimed to evaluate soluble levels of these molecules in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum at MS diagnosis and correlate them with short-term disease severity. Methods In a prospective cohort study, we enrolled 64 patients with a diagnosis of clinical isolated syndrome (CIS), radiological isolated syndrome (RIS) and relapsing-remitting (RR) MS according to the McDonald 2017 Criteria. Before any treatment initiation, we sampled the serum and CSF, and collected clinical data: disease course, presence of gadolinium-enhancing lesions, and expanded disability status score (EDSS). At the last clinical follow-up, we assessed EDSS and calculated MS severity score (MSSS) and age-related MS severity (ARMSS). Gas6 and TAM receptors were determined using an ELISA kit (R&D Systems) and compared to neurofilament (NFLs) levels evaluated with SimplePlex™ fluorescence-based immunoassay. Results At diagnosis, serum sAxl was higher in patients receiving none or low-efficacy disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) versus patients with high-efficacy DMTs (p = 0.04). Higher CSF Gas6 and serum sAXL were associated with an EDSS <3 at diagnosis (p = 0.04; p = 0.037). Serum Gas6 correlates to a lower MSSS (r2 = -0.32, p = 0.01). Serum and CSF NFLs were confirmed as disability biomarkers in our cohort according to EDSS (p = 0.005; p = 0.002) and MSSS (r2 = 0.27, p = 0.03; r2 = 0.39, p = 0.001). Results were corroborated using multivariate analysis. Conclusions Our data suggest a protective role of Gas6 and its receptors in patients with MS and suitable severity disease biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide D’Onghia
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Donato Colangelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Pharmacology, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carita”, Novara, Italy
| | - Stelvio Tonello
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Chiara Puricelli
- Department of Health Sciences, Clinical Biochemistry, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Virgilio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Neurology Unit, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Daria Apostolo
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Luciana L. Ferreira
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Leonardo Sozzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Federica Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Roberto Cantello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Neurology Unit, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Cristoforo Comi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Neurology Unit, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Vercelli, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carita”, Novara, Italy
| | - Domizia Vecchio
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Neurology Unit, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carita”, Novara, Italy
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Binder MD, Nwoke EC, Morwitch E, Dwyer C, Li V, Xavier A, Lea RA, Lechner-Scott J, Taylor BV, Ponsonby AL, Kilpatrick TJ. HLA-DRB1*15:01 and the MERTK Gene Interact to Selectively Influence the Profile of MERTK-Expressing Monocytes in Both Health and MS. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2024; 11:e200190. [PMID: 38150649 PMCID: PMC10752576 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES HLA-DRB1*15:01 (DR15) and MERTK are 2 risk genes for multiple sclerosis (MS). The variant rs7422195 is an expression quantitative trait locus for MERTK in CD14+ monocytes; cells with phagocytic and immunomodulatory potential. We aimed to understand how drivers of disease risk and pathogenesis vary with HLA and MERTK genotype and disease activity. METHODS We investigated how proportions of monocytes vary with HLA and MERTK genotype and disease activity in MS. CD14+ monocytes were isolated from patients with MS at relapse (n = 40) and 3 months later (n = 23). Healthy controls (HCs) underwent 2 blood collections 3 months apart. Immunophenotypic profiling of monocytes was performed by flow cytometry. Methylation of 35 CpG sites within and near the MERTK gene was assessed in whole blood samples of individuals experiencing their first episode of clinical CNS demyelination (n = 204) and matched HCs (n = 345) using an Illumina EPIC array. RESULTS DR15-positive patients had lower proportions of CD14+ MERTK+ monocytes than DR15-negative patients, independent of genotype at the MERTK SNP rs7422195. Proportions of CD14+ MERTK+ monocytes were further reduced during relapse in DR15-positive but not DR15-negative patients. Patients homozygous for the major G allele at rs7422195 exhibited higher proportions of CD14+ MERTK+ monocytes at both relapse and remission compared with controls. We observed that increased methylation of the MERTK gene was significantly associated with the presence of DR15. DISCUSSION DR15 and MERTK genotype independently influence proportions of CD14+ MERTK+ monocytes in MS. We confirmed previous observations that the MERTK risk SNP rs7422195 is associated with altered MERTK expression in monocytes. We identified that expression of MERTK is stratified by disease in people homozygous for the major G allele of rs7422195. The finding that the proportion of CD14+ MERTK+ monocytes is reduced in DR15-positive individuals supports prior data identifying genetic links between these 2 loci in influencing MS risk. DR15 genotype-dependent alterations in methylation of the MERTK gene provides a molecular link between these loci and identifies a potential mechanism by which MERTK expression is influenced by DR15. This links DR15 haplotype to MS susceptibility beyond direct influence on antigen presentation and suggests the need for HLA-based stratification of approaches to MERTK as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele D Binder
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Eze C Nwoke
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Ellen Morwitch
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Chris Dwyer
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Vivien Li
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Alexandre Xavier
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Rodney A Lea
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jeannette Lechner-Scott
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Trevor J Kilpatrick
- From the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (M.D.B., E.C.N., E.M., C.D., V.L., A.-L.P., T.J.K.); Department of Anatomy and Physiology (M.D.B.), University of Melbourne, Parkville; Crux Biolabs (E.C.N.), Bayswater; Department of Neurology (C.D.), Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville; Department of Neurology (A.X., J.L.-S.), John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle; Hunter Medical Research Institute (A.X., J.L.-S.), University of Newcastle, New South Wales Genomics Research Centre (R.A.L.), Centre of Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology; and Menzies Institute for Medical Research (B.V.T.), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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Cronin P, McCarthy S, Hurley C, Ghosh TS, Cooney JC, Tobin AM, Murphy M, O’Connor EM, Shanahan F, O’Toole PW. Comparative diet-gut microbiome analysis in Crohn's disease and Hidradenitis suppurativa. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1289374. [PMID: 38029085 PMCID: PMC10667482 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1289374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The chronic inflammatory skin disease Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is strongly associated with Crohn's Disease (CD). HS and CD share clinical similarities and similar inflammatory pathways are upregulated in both conditions. Increased prevalence of inflammatory disease in industrialised nations has been linked to the Western diet. However, gut microbiota composition and diet interaction have not been compared in HS and CD. Methods Here we compared the fecal microbiota (16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing) and habitual diet of previously reported subjects with HS (n = 55), patients with CD (n = 102) and controls (n = 95). Results and discussion Patients with HS consumed a Western diet similar to patients with CD. Meanwhile, habitual diet in HS and CD was significantly different to controls. Previously, we detected differences in microbiota composition among patients with HS from that of controls. We now show that 40% of patients with HS had a microbiota configuration similar to that of CD, characterised by the enrichment of pathogenic genera (Enterococcus, Veillonella and Escherichia_Shigella) and the depletion of putatively beneficial genera (Faecalibacterium). The remaining 60% of patients with HS harboured a normal microbiota similar to that of controls. Antibiotics, which are commonly used to treat HS, were identified as a co-varying with differences in microbiota composition. We examined the levels of several inflammatory markers highlighting that growth-arrest specific 6 (Gas6), which has anti-inflammatory potential, were significantly lower in the 40% of patients with HS who had a CD microbiota configuration. Levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-12, which is a modulator of intestinal inflammation in CD, were negatively correlated with the abundance of health-associated genera in patients with HS. In conclusion, the fecal microbiota may help identify patients with HS who are at greater risk for development of CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Cronin
- Department of Biological Science, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Siobhan McCarthy
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Dermatology, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Cian Hurley
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Tarini Shankar Ghosh
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology Delhi (IIIT-Delhi), Delhi, India
| | - Jakki C. Cooney
- Department of Biological Science, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Ann-Marie Tobin
- Department of Dermatology, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michelle Murphy
- Department of Dermatology, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Eibhlís M. O’Connor
- Department of Biological Science, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Fergus Shanahan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paul W. O’Toole
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Rizzi M, D'Onghia D, Tonello S, Minisini R, Colangelo D, Bellan M, Castello LM, Gavelli F, Avanzi GC, Pirisi M, Sainaghi PP. COVID-19 Biomarkers at the Crossroad between Patient Stratification and Targeted Therapy: The Role of Validated and Proposed Parameters. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087099. [PMID: 37108262 PMCID: PMC10138390 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanisms and COVID-19 pathophysiology have enormously increased during the pandemic. Nevertheless, because of the great heterogeneity of disease manifestations, a precise patient stratification at admission is still difficult, thus rendering a rational allocation of limited medical resources as well as a tailored therapeutic approach challenging. To date, many hematologic biomarkers have been validated to support the early triage of SARS-CoV-2-positive patients and to monitor their disease progression. Among them, some indices have proven to be not only predictive parameters, but also direct or indirect pharmacological targets, thus allowing for a more tailored approach to single-patient symptoms, especially in those with severe progressive disease. While many blood test-derived parameters quickly entered routine clinical practice, other circulating biomarkers have been proposed by several researchers who have investigated their reliability in specific patient cohorts. Despite their usefulness in specific contexts as well as their potential interest as therapeutic targets, such experimental markers have not been implemented in routine clinical practice, mainly due to their higher costs and low availability in general hospital settings. This narrative review will present an overview of the most commonly adopted biomarkers in clinical practice and of the most promising ones emerging from specific population studies. Considering that each of the validated markers reflects a specific aspect of COVID-19 evolution, embedding new highly informative markers into routine clinical testing could help not only in early patient stratification, but also in guiding a timely and tailored method of therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Rizzi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Davide D'Onghia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Stelvio Tonello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Donato Colangelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi Mario Castello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco Gavelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gian Carlo Avanzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Apostolo D, D’Onghia D, Tonello S, Minisini R, Baricich A, Gramaglia C, Patrucco F, Zeppegno P, Acquaviva A, Balbo PE, Castello LM, Cappellano G, Chiocchetti A, Gerevini C, Giordano M, Laaguid F, Manfredi M, Raineri D, Rigamonti C, Rolla R, Romano V, Confalonieri M, Savoia P, Zavattaro E, Pirisi M, Ruaro B, Sainaghi PP, Bellan M. Decreased Gas6 and sAxl Plasma Levels Are Associated with Hair Loss in COVID-19 Survivors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076257. [PMID: 37047229 PMCID: PMC10094682 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-acute conditions after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are quite common, although the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms leading to these conditions are not yet completely understood. In this prospective observational study, we aimed to test the hypothesis that Growth Arrest-Specific 6 (Gas6) and its soluble receptors, Axl (sAxl) and MerTK (sMer), might be implicated. A total of 263 subjects underwent a structured clinical evaluation one year after their hospital discharge for COVID-19, and they consented to donate a blood sample to measure their circulating Gas6, sAxl, and sMer levels. A total of 98 (37.3%) post-COVID-19 subjects complained of at least one residual physical symptom one year after their hospital discharge. Univariate analysis revealed that sAxl was marginally associated with residual symptoms, but at the level of logistic regression analysis, only the diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) (OR 0.98, CI 95%: 0.96–0.99; p = 0.007) and the female sex (OR 2.49, CI 95%: 1.45–4.28; p = 0.001) were independently associated with long-lasting symptoms. A total of 69 (26.2%) subjects had hair loss. At the level of univariate analysis, Gas6, sAxl, DLCO, and the female gender were associated with its development. In a logistic regression analysis model, Gas6 (OR 0.96, CI 95%: 0.92–0.99; p = 0.015) and sAxl (OR 0.98, CI 95%; 0.97–1.0; p = 0.014), along with the female sex (OR 6.58, CI 95%: 3.39–12.78; p = 0.0001), were independent predictors of hair loss. Decreased levels of Gas6 and sAxl were associated with a history of hair loss following COVID-19. This was resolved spontaneously in most patients, although 23.7% complained of persistent hair loss one year after hospital discharge.
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Rizzi M, Tonello S, D’Onghia D, Sainaghi PP. Gas6/TAM Axis Involvement in Modulating Inflammation and Fibrosis in COVID-19 Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020951. [PMID: 36674471 PMCID: PMC9861142 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gas6 (growth arrest-specific gene 6) is a widely expressed vitamin K-dependent protein that is involved in many biological processes such as homeostatic regulation, inflammation and repair/fibrotic processes. It is known that it is the main ligand of TAMs, a tyrosine kinase receptor family of three members, namely MerTK, Tyro-3 and Axl, for which it displays the highest affinity. Gas6/TAM axis activation is known to be involved in modulating inflammatory responses as well as fibrotic evolution in many different pathological conditions. Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, this review will focus on Gas6/TAM axis activation in SARS-CoV-2 infection, where de-regulated inflammatory responses and fibrosis represent a relevant feature of severe disease manifestation. Furthermore, this review will highlight the most recent scientific evidence supporting an unsuspected role of Axl as a SARS-CoV-2 infection driver, and the potential therapeutic advantages of the use of existing Axl inhibitors in COVID-19 management. From a physiological point of view, the Gas6/TAM axis plays a dual role, fostering the tissue repair processes or leading to organ damage and loss of function, depending on the prevalence of its anti-inflammatory or profibrotic properties. This review makes a strong case for further research focusing on the Gas6/TAM axis as a pharmacological target to manage different disease conditions, such as chronic fibrosis or COVID-19.
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Mufti AH, AlJahdali IA, Elhawary NA, Ekram SN, Abumansour I, Sindi IA, Naffadi H, Elhawary EN, Alyamani NM, Alghamdi G, Alosaimi W, Rawas G, Alharbi A, Tayeb MT. Variations in TAP1 and PSMB9 Genes Involved in Antigen Processing and Presentation Increase the Risk of Vitiligo in the Saudi Community. Int J Gen Med 2022. [PMID: 34984025 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s341079]] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The antigen processing 1 (TAP1) and proteasome 20S subunit beta 9 (PSMB9) genes are associated with strong susceptibility to many autoimmune diseases. Here, we explored whether TAP1/PSMB9 genetic variants, individually or combined, affected susceptibility to the complex, autoimmune-based skin disorder vitiligo. Methods Samples of genomic DNA from buccal cells of 172 patients with vitiligo and 129 healthy controls were analyzed using TaqMan™ genotyping assays for the TAP1 rs1135216 (A>G) and PSMB9 rs17587 (A>G) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). SNPStats software (https://www.snpstats.net) was utilized to choose the best interactive inheritance mode for selected SNPs. Results The genotype frequencies for the TAP1 rs1135216 and PSMB9 rs17587 SNPs were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for cases (P= 0.11 and P= 0.10, respectively) but not for controls (P< 0.05). The TAP1 rs1135216 (D637G) and PSMB9 rs17587 (R60H) SNPs increased the risk of vitiligo four-fold and two-fold, respectively (odds ratio [OR]= 4.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.2-6.5; P< 0.0001 and OR= 2.2; 95% CI, 1.5-3.1; P< 0.0001). The recessive model (G/G-D/G versus D/D) and the codominant model (R/R versus R/H) were the best models of inheritance for the rs113526 and rs17587 SNPs, respectively (OR= 16.4; 95% CI, 2.0-138; P= 0.0006 and OR= 1.7; 95% CI, 0.3-1.8; P= 0.013). Vulgaris, focal vulgaris, and acryl/acrofacial were the most common vitiligo subtypes in our sample (51%, 21%, and 19%, respectively). Heterozygous rs113526 (637D/G) and rs17587 (60R/H) were the most common genotypes in most vitiligo subtypes. The heterozygous 637D/G genotype and the 637G variant allele were significantly more common in patients with active disease than in patients with stable disease (P= 0.000052 and P= 0.0063, respectively). Conclusion Our findings suggest a crucial role for TAP1 rs1135216 and PSMB9 rs17587 in the risk and progression of vitiligo in the Saudi community. Genomic analyses are needed to identify more candidate genes and more genetic variants associated with vitiligo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad H Mufti
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imad A AlJahdali
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser A Elhawary
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samar N Ekram
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Iman Abumansour
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ikhlas A Sindi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hind Naffadi
- Common Science, First Year Deanship, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ezzeldin N Elhawary
- MS Genomic Medicine Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Najiah M Alyamani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghydda Alghamdi
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wafaa Alosaimi
- Department of Hematology, Maternity and Children Hospital, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Amaal Alharbi
- Saudi Biobank National ProjectKing Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed T Tayeb
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
Tyro3, Axl and Mertk are members of the TAM family of tyrosine kinase receptors. TAMs are activated by two structurally homologous ligands GAS6 and PROS1. TAM receptors and ligands are widely distributed and often co-expressed in the same cells allowing diverse functions across many systems including the immune, reproductive, vascular, and the developing as well as adult nervous systems. This review will focus specifically on TAM signaling in the nervous system, highlighting the essential roles this pathway fulfills in maintaining cell survival and homeostasis, cellular functions such as phagocytosis, immunity and tissue repair. Dysfunctional TAM signaling can cause complications in development, disruptions in homeostasis which can rouse autoimmunity, neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. The development of therapeutics modulating TAM activities in the nervous system has great prospects, however, foremost we need a complete understanding of TAM signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Burstyn-Cohen
- Institute for Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University-Hadassah, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Arielle Hochberg
- Institute for Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University-Hadassah, Jerusalem, Israel
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9
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Cruz-Herranz A, Oertel FC, Kim K, Cantó E, Timmons G, Sin JH, Devereux M, Baker N, Michel B, Schubert RD, Rani L, Cordano C, Baranzini SE, Green AJ. Distinctive waves of innate immune response in the retina in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e149228. [PMID: 34100385 PMCID: PMC8262300 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.149228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegeneration mediates neurological disability in inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the CNS. The role of innate immune cells in mediating this damage has remained controversial with evidence for destructive and protective effects. This has complicated efforts to develop treatment. The time sequence and dynamic evolution of the opposing functions are especially unclear. Given limits of in vivo monitoring in human diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), animal models are warranted to investigate the association and timing of innate immune activation with neurodegeneration. Using noninvasive in vivo retinal imaging of experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE) in CX3CR1GFP/+–knock-in mice followed by transcriptional profiling, we are able to show 2 distinct waves separated by a marked reduction in the number of innate immune cells and change in cell morphology. The first wave is characterized by an inflammatory phagocytic phenotype preceding the onset of EAE, whereas the second wave is characterized by a regulatory, antiinflammatory phenotype during the chronic stage. Additionally, the magnitude of the first wave is associated with neuronal loss. Two transcripts identified — growth arrest–specific protein 6 (GAS6) and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) — might be promising targets for enhancing protective effects of microglia in the chronic phase after initial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Cruz-Herranz
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Frederike C Oertel
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), Max-Delbrück-Centrum for Molecular Medicine, and.,NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (NCRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kicheol Kim
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ester Cantó
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Garrett Timmons
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jung H Sin
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Michael Devereux
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Nicholas Baker
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Brady Michel
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ryan D Schubert
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Lakshmisahithi Rani
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Christian Cordano
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sergio E Baranzini
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ari J Green
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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10
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Role of the Gas6/TAM System as a Disease Marker and Potential Drug Target. DISEASE MARKERS 2021; 2021:2854925. [PMID: 33532004 PMCID: PMC7834835 DOI: 10.1155/2021/2854925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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11
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Mufti AH, AlJahdali IA, Elhawary NA, Ekram SN, Abumansour I, Sindi IA, Naffadi H, Elhawary EN, Alyamani NM, Alghamdi G, Alosaimi W, Rawas G, Alharbi A, Tayeb MT. Variations in TAP1 and PSMB9 Genes Involved in Antigen Processing and Presentation Increase the Risk of Vitiligo in the Saudi Community. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:10031-10044. [PMID: 34984025 PMCID: PMC8702990 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s341079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The antigen processing 1 (TAP1) and proteasome 20S subunit beta 9 (PSMB9) genes are associated with strong susceptibility to many autoimmune diseases. Here, we explored whether TAP1/PSMB9 genetic variants, individually or combined, affected susceptibility to the complex, autoimmune-based skin disorder vitiligo. METHODS Samples of genomic DNA from buccal cells of 172 patients with vitiligo and 129 healthy controls were analyzed using TaqMan™ genotyping assays for the TAP1 rs1135216 (A>G) and PSMB9 rs17587 (A>G) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). SNPStats software (https://www.snpstats.net) was utilized to choose the best interactive inheritance mode for selected SNPs. RESULTS The genotype frequencies for the TAP1 rs1135216 and PSMB9 rs17587 SNPs were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for cases (P= 0.11 and P= 0.10, respectively) but not for controls (P< 0.05). The TAP1 rs1135216 (D637G) and PSMB9 rs17587 (R60H) SNPs increased the risk of vitiligo four-fold and two-fold, respectively (odds ratio [OR]= 4.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.2-6.5; P< 0.0001 and OR= 2.2; 95% CI, 1.5-3.1; P< 0.0001). The recessive model (G/G-D/G versus D/D) and the codominant model (R/R versus R/H) were the best models of inheritance for the rs113526 and rs17587 SNPs, respectively (OR= 16.4; 95% CI, 2.0-138; P= 0.0006 and OR= 1.7; 95% CI, 0.3-1.8; P= 0.013). Vulgaris, focal vulgaris, and acryl/acrofacial were the most common vitiligo subtypes in our sample (51%, 21%, and 19%, respectively). Heterozygous rs113526 (637D/G) and rs17587 (60R/H) were the most common genotypes in most vitiligo subtypes. The heterozygous 637D/G genotype and the 637G variant allele were significantly more common in patients with active disease than in patients with stable disease (P= 0.000052 and P= 0.0063, respectively). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest a crucial role for TAP1 rs1135216 and PSMB9 rs17587 in the risk and progression of vitiligo in the Saudi community. Genomic analyses are needed to identify more candidate genes and more genetic variants associated with vitiligo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad H Mufti
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imad A AlJahdali
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser A Elhawary
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: Nasser A Elhawary Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, P.O. Box 57543, Mecca, 21955, Saudi ArabiaTel +966 55 369 2180 Email
| | - Samar N Ekram
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Iman Abumansour
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ikhlas A Sindi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hind Naffadi
- Common Science, First Year Deanship, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ezzeldin N Elhawary
- MS Genomic Medicine Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Najiah M Alyamani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghydda Alghamdi
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wafaa Alosaimi
- Department of Hematology, Maternity and Children Hospital, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Amaal Alharbi
- Saudi Biobank National ProjectKing Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed T Tayeb
- Department of Medical Genetics, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, 21955, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Jacobs BM, Taylor T, Awad A, Baker D, Giovanonni G, Noyce AJ, Dobson R. Summary-data-based Mendelian randomization prioritizes potential druggable targets for multiple sclerosis. Brain Commun 2020; 2:fcaa119. [PMID: 33005893 PMCID: PMC7519728 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcaa119] [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: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is a complex autoimmune disease caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Translation of Genome-Wide Association Study findings into therapeutics and effective preventive strategies has been limited to date. We used summary-data-based Mendelian randomization to synthesize findings from public expression quantitative trait locus, methylation quantitative trait locus and Multiple Sclerosis Genome-Wide Association Study datasets. By correlating the effects of methylation on multiple sclerosis, methylation on expression and expression on multiple sclerosis susceptibility, we prioritize genetic loci with evidence of influencing multiple sclerosis susceptibility. We overlay these findings onto a list of 'druggable' genes, i.e. genes which are currently, or could theoretically, be targeted by therapeutic compounds. We use GeNets and search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins to identify protein-protein interactions and druggable pathways enriched in our results. We extend these findings to a model of Epstein-Barr virus-infected B cells, lymphoblastoid cell lines. We conducted a systematic review of prioritized genes using the Open Targets platform to identify completed and planned trials targeting prioritized genes in multiple sclerosis and related disease areas. Expression of 45 genes in peripheral blood was strongly associated with multiple sclerosis susceptibility (False discovery rate 0.05). Of these 45 genes, 20 encode a protein which is currently targeted by an existing therapeutic compound. These genes were enriched for Gene Ontology terms pertaining to immune system function and leucocyte signalling. We refined this prioritized gene list by restricting to loci where CpG site methylation was associated with multiple sclerosis susceptibility, with gene expression and where expression was associated with multiple sclerosis susceptibility. This approach yielded a list of 15 prioritized druggable target genes for which there was evidence of a pathway linking methylation, expression and multiple sclerosis. Five of these 15 genes are targeted by existing drugs and three were replicated in a smaller expression Quantitative Trait Loci dataset (CD40, MERTK and PARP1). In lymphoblastoid cell lines, this approach prioritized 7 druggable gene targets, of which only one was prioritized by the multi-omic approach in peripheral blood (FCRL3). Systematic review of Open Targets revealed multiple early-phase trials targeting 13/20 prioritized genes in disorders related to multiple sclerosis. We use public datasets and summary-data-based Mendelian randomization to identify a list of prioritized druggable genetic targets in multiple sclerosis. We hope our findings could be translated into a platform for developing targeted preventive therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M Jacobs
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, UK.,Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, UK
| | - Thomas Taylor
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, UK.,Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, UK
| | - Amine Awad
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, UK.,Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, UK
| | - David Baker
- BartsMS, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, UK
| | - Gavin Giovanonni
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, UK.,Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, UK.,BartsMS, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, UK
| | - Alastair J Noyce
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, UK.,Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, UK
| | - Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, UK.,Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, UK
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13
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Di Stasi R, De Rosa L, D'Andrea LD. Therapeutic aspects of the Axl/Gas6 molecular system. Drug Discov Today 2020; 25:2130-2148. [PMID: 33002607 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Axl receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) and its ligand, growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6), are involved in several biological functions and participate in the development and progression of a range of malignancies and autoimmune disorders. In this review, we present this molecular system from a drug discovery perspective, highlighting its therapeutic implications and challenges that need to be addressed. We provide an update on Axl/Gas6 axis biology, exploring its role in fields ranging from angiogenesis, cancer development and metastasis, immune response and inflammation to viral infection. Finally, we summarize the molecules that have been developed to date to target the Axl/Gas6 molecular system for therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Di Stasi
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Lucia De Rosa
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luca D D'Andrea
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Via Nizza 52, 10126 Torino, Italy.
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14
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Role of Gas6 and TAM Receptors in the Identification of Cardiopulmonary Involvement in Systemic Sclerosis and Scleroderma Spectrum Disorders. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:2696173. [PMID: 32454903 PMCID: PMC7240795 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2696173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Few biomarkers are available for early identification of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) in systemic sclerosis (SS) and scleroderma spectrum disorders (SSD). Aims To evaluate Gas6, sAxl, and sMer as biomarkers for cardiopulmonary complications of SS and SSD. Methods In a cross-sectional observational study, we recruited 125 consecutive patients, affected by SS and SSD and referred to a tertiary-level pulmonary hypertension outpatient clinic. All patients underwent a comprehensive evaluation for identification of PAH and ILD. Gas6, sMer, and sAxl concentrations were measured with ELISA protocols, and concentrations were compared according to PAH or ILD. Results Nineteen subjects had pulmonary hypertension (PH) (14 PAH), and 39 had ILD (6 severe). Plasma sMer was increased in PAH (18.6 ng/ml IQR [11.7-20.3]) with respect to the absence (12.4 [8.0-15.8]) or other form of pulmonary hypertension (9.6 [7.4-12.5]; K–W variance p < 0.04). Conversely, Gas6 and sAxl levels were slightly increased in mild ILD (25.8 ng/ml [19.5-32.1] and 24.6 [20.1-32.5]) and reduced in severe ILD (16.6 [15.0-22.1] and 15.5 [14.9-22.4]) in comparison to no evidence of ILD (23.4 [18.8-28.1] and 21.6 [18.1-28.4]; K–W, p ≤ 0.05). Plasma sMer ≥ 19 ng/ml has 50% sensitivity and 92% specificity in PAH identification (area under the ROC curve (AUC) 0.697, p < 0.03). Values of Gas6 ≤ 24.5 ng/ml and of sAxl ≤ 15.5 ng/ml have 100% and 67% sensitivity and 47% and 86% specificity, respectively, in identifying severe ILD (Gas6 AUC 0.787, p < 0.001; sAxl AUC 0.705, p < 0.05). Conclusions The assay of Gas6 sAxl and sMer may be useful to help in the identification of PAH and ILD in SS and SSD patients. The Gas6/TAM system seems to be relevant in cardiopulmonary complications of SS and SSD and merits further investigations.
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15
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Scott TF, Bertha N. The impact of multiple sclerosis relapses on worsening over the long term; insights in the treatment era. J Neurol Sci 2020; 413:116773. [PMID: 32193023 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.116773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Relapses of multiple sclerosis (MS) are the clinical manifestations of inflammatory events involving eloquent anatomical structures within the central nervous system. Relapses are associated with worsening disability of MS patients in both early and later disease, even after progressive features are seen. The impact of relapses on the long-term course of the disease is now being realized as a generation of treated patients is now elderly. New MRI brain lesions can be viewed as a radiologic manifestation of acute inflammation and are associated with similar prognostic value. The complex relationship between clinical relapse activity and later slow progressive worsening remains incompletely understood, however, there is increasing biological plausibility for a causative association between relapse activity and lifelong disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas F Scott
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Institute, Allegheny General Hospital, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America; Department of Neurology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America.
| | - Nicholas Bertha
- Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States of America
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16
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New Insights into the Role of Tyro3, Axl, and Mer Receptors in Rheumatoid Arthritis. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:1614627. [PMID: 32051695 PMCID: PMC6995487 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1614627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is the most common chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease involving joints. Among several pathogenic mechanisms, the impairment of homeostatic regulators of inflammation seems to be critically important to sustain persistent infiltration and activation of immune and stromal cells within the diseased synovium. Tyrosine kinase receptors Tyro3, Axl, and Mer are members of the TAM family. Upon binding their ligands Growth Arrest-Specific gene 6 (Gas6) and Protein S (ProS1), TAM receptors (TAMs) exert numerous and diverse biologic functions. Activated Axl and Mer, for instance, can negatively regulate the inflammatory cascade and mediate phagocytosis of apoptotic cells, contributing to prevent the development of autoimmunity. Thus, a role for TAMs has been hypothesized in RA. In this review, we will summarise unmet clinical needs in RA, depict the biology of TAMs and TAM ligands, focussing on their ability to regulate the immune system and inflammation cascade, and finally offer an overview of the state-of-the-art literature about the putative role of TAM axis in RA.
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17
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Gas6/TAM System: A Key Modulator of the Interplay between Inflammation and Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205070. [PMID: 31614787 PMCID: PMC6834320 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is the result of an overly abundant deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) due to the fact of repetitive tissue injuries and/or dysregulation of the repair process. Fibrogenesis is a pathogenetic phenomenon which is involved in different chronic human diseases, accounting for a high burden of morbidity and mortality. Despite being triggered by different causative factors, fibrogenesis follows common pathways, the knowledge of which is, however, still unsatisfactory. This represents a significant limit for the development of effective antifibrotic drugs. In the present paper, we aimed to review the current evidence regarding the potential role played in fibrogenesis by growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6) and its receptors Tyro3 protein tyrosine kinase (Tyro3), Axl receptor tyrosine kinase (Axl), and Mer tyrosine kinase protooncogene (MerTK) (TAM). Moreover, we aimed to review data about the pathogenetic role of this system in the development of different human diseases characterized by fibrosis. Finally, we aimed to explore the potential implications of these findings in diagnosis and treatment.
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18
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TAM Receptor Pathways at the Crossroads of Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration. DISEASE MARKERS 2019; 2019:2387614. [PMID: 31636733 PMCID: PMC6766163 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2387614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that pathogenic mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration are strongly linked with neuroinflammatory responses. Tyro3, Axl, and Mertk (TAM receptors) constitute a subgroup of the receptor tyrosine kinase family, cell surface receptors which transmit signals from the extracellular space to the cytoplasm and nucleus. TAM receptors and the corresponding ligands, Growth Arrest Specific 6 and Protein S, are expressed in different tissues, including the nervous system, playing complex roles in tissue repair, inflammation and cell survival, proliferation, and migration. In the nervous system, TAM receptor signalling modulates neurogenesis and neuronal migration, synaptic plasticity, microglial activation, phagocytosis, myelination, and peripheral nerve repair, resulting in potential interest in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Multiple Sclerosis. In Alzheimer and Parkinson diseases, a role of TAM receptors in neuronal survival and pathological protein aggregate clearance has been suggested, while in Multiple Sclerosis TAM receptors are involved in myelination and demyelination processes. To better clarify roles and pathways involving TAM receptors may have important therapeutic implications, given the fine modulation of multiple molecular processes which could be reached. In this review, we summarise the roles of TAM receptors in the central nervous system, focusing on the regulation of immune responses and microglial activities and analysing in vitro and in vivo studies regarding TAM signalling involvement in neurodegeneration.
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Gas6/TAM Signaling Components as Novel Biomarkers of Liver Fibrosis. DISEASE MARKERS 2019; 2019:2304931. [PMID: 31583026 PMCID: PMC6754881 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2304931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis consists in the accumulation of extracellular matrix components mainly derived from activated hepatic stellate cells. This is commonly the result of chronic liver injury repair and represents an important health concern. As liver biopsy is burdened with many drawbacks, not surprisingly there is great interest to find new reliable noninvasive methods. Among the many are new potential fibrosis biomarkers under study, some of the most promising represented by the growth arrest-specific gene 6 (Gas6) serum protein and its family of tyrosine kinase receptors, namely, Tyro3, Axl, and MERTK (TAM). Gas6/TAM system (mainly, Axl and MERTK) has in fact recently emerged as an important player in the progression of liver fibrosis. This review is aimed at giving an overall perspective of the roles played by these molecules in major chronic liver diseases. The most promising findings up to date acknowledge that both Gas6 and its receptor serum levels (such as sAxl and, probably, sMERTK) have been shown to potentially allow for easy and accurate measurement of hepatic fibrosis progression, also providing indicative parameters of hepatic dysfunction. Although most of the current scientific evidence is still preliminary and there are no in vivo validation studies on large patient series, it still looks very promising to imagine a possible future prognostic role for these biomarkers in the multidimensional assessment of a liver patient. One may also speculate on a potential role for this system targeting (e.g., with small molecule inhibitors against Axl) as a therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis management, always bearing in mind that any such therapeutic approach might face toxicity.
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Gas6/TAM Axis in Sepsis: Time to Consider Its Potential Role as a Therapeutic Target. DISEASE MARKERS 2019; 2019:6156493. [PMID: 31485279 PMCID: PMC6710761 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6156493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Tyrosine kinase receptors are transmembrane proteins involved in cell signaling and interaction. Among them, the TAM family (composed by Tyro 3, Axl, and Mer) represents a peculiar subgroup with an important role in many physiological and pathological conditions. Despite different mechanisms of activation (e.g., protein S and Galactin-3), TAM action is tightly related to their common ligand, a protein named growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6). Since the expression of both TAM and Gas6 is widely distributed among tissues, any alteration of one of these components can lead to different pathological conditions. Moreover, as they are indispensable for homeostasis maintenance, in recent years a growing interest has emerged regarding their role in the regulation of the inflammatory process. Due to this involvement, many authors have demonstrated the pivotal role of the Gas6/TAM axis in both sepsis and the sepsis-related inflammatory responses. In this narrative review, we highlight the current knowledge as well as the last discoveries on TAM and Gas6 implication in different clinical conditions, notably in sepsis and septic shock. Lastly, we underline not only the feasible use of Gas6 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in certain systemic acute conditions but also its potential therapeutic role in these life-threatening diseases.
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Alisi L, Cao R, De Angelis C, Cafolla A, Caramia F, Cartocci G, Librando A, Fiorelli M. The Relationships Between Vitamin K and Cognition: A Review of Current Evidence. Front Neurol 2019; 10:239. [PMID: 30949117 PMCID: PMC6436180 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble nutrient discovered in 1935 and its role in blood coagulation has been thoroughly explored. In recent years, studies conducted in vitro and on animals highlighted vitamin K involvement in brain cells development and survival. In particular, vitamin K seems to have an antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory effect mediated by the activation of Growth Arrest Specific Gene 6 and Protein S. Moreover, this vitamin is involved in sphingolipids metabolism, a class of lipids that participate in the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of brain cells. An altered expression in sphingolipids profile has been related to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. This review stems from a growing interest in the role of vitamin K in brain functions, especially in cognition, also in view of an expected increase of prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. It collects recent researches that show interesting, even though not definitive, evidence of a direct correlation between vitamin K levels and cognitive performance. Moreover, vitamin K antagonists, used worldwide as oral anticoagulants, according to recent studies may have a negative influence on cognitive domains such as visual memory, verbal fluency and brain volume. The aim of this review is to analyze the evidence of clinical studies carried out up to date on the relationship between vitamin K intake and cognitive performances. The involvement of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in declining cognitive performances is also addressed separately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovico Alisi
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Cao
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina De Angelis
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Arturo Cafolla
- Department of Cell Biotechnology and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Caramia
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Cartocci
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Aloisa Librando
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Fiorelli
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Shafit-Zagardo B, Gruber RC, DuBois JC. The role of TAM family receptors and ligands in the nervous system: From development to pathobiology. Pharmacol Ther 2018. [PMID: 29514053 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Tyro3, Axl, and Mertk, referred to as the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases, are instrumental in maintaining cell survival and homeostasis in mammals. TAM receptors interact with multiple signaling molecules to regulate cell migration, survival, phagocytosis and clearance of metabolic products and cell debris called efferocytosis. The TAMs also function as rheostats to reduce the expression of proinflammatory molecules and prevent autoimmunity. All three TAM receptors are activated in a concentration-dependent manner by the vitamin K-dependent growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6). Gas6 and the TAMs are abundantly expressed in the nervous system. Gas6, secreted by neurons and endothelial cells, is the sole ligand for Axl. ProteinS1 (ProS1), another vitamin K-dependent protein functions mainly as an anti-coagulant, and independent of this function can activate Tyro3 and Mertk, but not Axl. This review will focus on the role of the TAM receptors and their ligands in the nervous system. We highlight studies that explore the function of TAM signaling in myelination, the visual cortex, neural cancers, and multiple sclerosis (MS) using Gas6-/- and TAM mutant mice models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Shafit-Zagardo
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Department of Pathology, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, United States.
| | - Ross C Gruber
- Sanofi, Neuroinflammation and MS Research, 49 New York Ave, Framingham, MA 01701, United States
| | - Juwen C DuBois
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Department of Pathology, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, United States
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Khosravi-Largani M, Pourvali-Talatappeh P, Rousta AM, Karimi-Kivi M, Noroozi E, Mahjoob A, Asaadi Y, Shahmohammadi A, Sadeghi S, Shakeri S, Ghiyasvand K, Tavakoli-Yaraki M. A review on potential roles of vitamins in incidence, progression, and improvement of multiple sclerosis. eNeurologicalSci 2018; 10:37-44. [PMID: 29736427 PMCID: PMC5934114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ensci.2018.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease, with unknown etiology. Vitamins, as important micronutrients playing different roles in body, seem to be important in MS pathogenesis. In vitro, in vivo and human studies, supports the protective role of some vitamins in MS occurrence or progression. Current study reviews recent insights and reports about the importance of vitamins in MS incidence or progression. In accordance, the importance of all water and fat-soluble vitamins in MS pathogenesis based on observational studies in human population and their role in the function of immune system as well as possible therapeutic opportunities are discussed in depth throughout this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Elahe Noroozi
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Mahjoob
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Asaadi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sarina Sadeghi
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shiva Shakeri
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimiya Ghiyasvand
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Tavakoli-Yaraki
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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24
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Zhang C, Li Y, Wang X, Fei Y, Zhang L. Involvement of neurokinin 1 receptor within the cerebrospinal fluid‑contacting nucleus in visceral pain. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:4300-4304. [PMID: 28440440 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown that the cerebrospinal fluid‑contacting nucleus (CSF‑CN) may be associated with the transduction and regulation of pain signals. However, the role of the CSF‑CN remains to be elucidated. Emerging evidence has suggested that neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R) is important in the development of visceral pain and hyperalgesia, however, whether NK1R exists in the CSF‑CN and its exact role in visceral pain remain to be fully elucidated. In the present study, double‑labeled immunofluorescence staining and western blot analysis were performed to investigate this. It was revealed that NK1R was distributed in the CSF‑CN. Following the induction of visceral pain by formalin instillation, NK1R in the CSF‑CN was upregulated. In addition, by observing the behaviors of rats subjected to visceral pain, it was found that visceral pain was relieved by lateral intracerbroventricular injection of the NK1R antagonist, RP67580. These data provided a broader understanding of the role of NK1R in the CSF‑CN and demonstrated that the CSF‑CN was involved in acute visceral pain via the regulation of NK1R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, P.R. China
| | - Ying Li
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, P.R. China
| | - Xin Wang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, P.R. China
| | - Yan Fei
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, P.R. China
| | - Licai Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, P.R. China
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25
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Sainaghi PP, Bellan M, Lombino F, Alciato F, Carecchio M, Galimberti D, Fenoglio C, Scarpini E, Cantello R, Pirisi M, Comi C. Growth Arrest Specific 6 Concentration is Increased in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2017; 55:59-65. [PMID: 27636849 DOI: 10.3233/jad-160599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Growth arrest specific 6 (Gas6) has neurotrophic and neuroinflammatory functions, and may play a role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In keeping with this hypothesis, we observed that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Gas6 is increased in AD patients compared to controls (63 versus 67 subjects; median value 13.3 versus 9.1 ng/ml; p < 0.0001). Thereafter, we assessed whether CSF Gas6 concentration was correlated to the following parameters: disease duration, MMSE score two years after clinical diagnosis, AD CSF biomarkers, and years of formal schooling. We detected an inverse correlation between CSF Gas6 levels at diagnosis and both disease duration (p < 0.0001) and decrease in the MMSE score two years later (p < 0.0001). Conversely, we found no correlation between CSF Gas6 and both AD biomarkers and years of formal schooling. In conclusion, our results suggest that upregulation of CSF Gas6 may be part of a defensive response aimed at counteracting AD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Immuno-Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Immuno-Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Internal Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Franco Lombino
- Department Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University of Hamburg Medical Center (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Federica Alciato
- Department of Translational Medicine, Internal Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Miryam Carecchio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Daniela Galimberti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Neurology Unit, University of Milan, Fondazione Ca' Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Fenoglio
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Neurology Unit, University of Milan, Fondazione Ca' Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elio Scarpini
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Neurology Unit, University of Milan, Fondazione Ca' Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Cantello
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Immuno-Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Cristoforo Comi
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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26
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The Gas6/TAM System and Multiple Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17111807. [PMID: 27801848 PMCID: PMC5133808 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17111807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 10/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth arrest specific 6 (Gas6) is a multimodular circulating protein, the biological actions of which are mediated by the interaction with three transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptors: Tyro3, Axl, and MerTK, collectively named TAM. Over the last few decades, many progresses have been done in the understanding of the biological activities of this highly pleiotropic system, which plays a role in the regulation of immune response, inflammation, coagulation, cell growth, and clearance of apoptotic bodies. Recent findings have further related Gas6 and TAM receptors to neuroinflammation in general and, specifically, to multiple sclerosis (MS). In this paper, we review the biology of the Gas6/TAM system and the current evidence supporting its potential role in the pathogenesis of MS.
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Bakhuraysah MM, Siatskas C, Petratos S. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for multiple sclerosis: is it a clinical reality? Stem Cell Res Ther 2016; 7:12. [PMID: 26772391 PMCID: PMC4715306 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-015-0272-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a treatment paradigm that has long been utilized for cancers of the blood and bone marrow but has gained some traction as a treatment paradigm for multiple sclerosis (MS). Success in the treatment of patients with this approach has been reported primarily when strict inclusion criteria are imposed that have eventuated a more precise understanding of MS pathophysiology, thereby governing trial design. Moreover, enhancing the yield and purity of hematopoietic stem cells during isolation along with the utility of appropriate conditioning agents has provided a clearer foundation for clinical translation studies. To support this approach, preclinical data derived from animal models of MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, have provided clear identification of multipotent stem cells that can reconstitute the immune system to override the autoimmune attack of the central nervous system. In this review, we will discuss the rationale of HSCT to treat MS by providing the benefits and complications of the clinically relevant protocols, the varying graft types, and conditioning regimens. However, we emphasize that future trials based on HSCT should be focused on specific therapeutic strategies to target and limit ongoing neurodegeneration and demyelination in progressive MS, in the hope that such treatment may serve a greater catchment of patient cohorts with potentially enhanced efficiency and lower toxicity. Despite these future ambitions, a proposed international multicenter, randomized clinical trial of HSCT should be governed by the best standard care of treatment, whereby MS patients are selected upon strict clinical course criteria and long-term follow-up studies of patients from international registries are imposed to advocate HSCT as a therapeutic option in the management of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha M Bakhuraysah
- Department of Medicine, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Prahran, VIC, 3004, Australia.
| | - Christopher Siatskas
- Department of Medicine, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Prahran, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Steven Petratos
- Department of Medicine, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Prahran, VIC, 3004, Australia.
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28
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Ma GZ, Giuffrida LL, Gresle MM, Haartsen J, Laverick L, Butzkueven H, Field J, Binder MD, Kilpatrick TJ. Association of plasma levels of Protein S with disease severity in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2015; 1:2055217315596532. [PMID: 28607700 PMCID: PMC5433335 DOI: 10.1177/2055217315596532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases (TYRO3, AXL and MERTK) play important roles in modulating innate immune responses and central demyelination. The TAM receptor ligand Protein S (PROS) has also been shown to modulate innate immune cell responses. Objectives We assessed whether plasma levels of PROS are changed in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and whether changes are associated with disease severity. Methods Plasma levels of total and free PROS were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in a discovery cohort (MS: 65, control: 14) and an independent replication cohort (MS: 29, control: 29). The Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) was used to evaluate associations between plasma PROS levels and disease severity. Results We found plasma levels of total, but not free PROS, were decreased in MS patients compared with controls. In female MS patients, we observed decreases in total and free PROS levels compared with controls. In addition, we also observed higher MSSS in patients with very low levels of plasma free PROS. Conclusions These data suggest PROS may represent a potential marker of disease severity in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerry Zm Ma
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lauren L Giuffrida
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Jodi Haartsen
- Eastern Clinical Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Box Hill Hospital, Monash University, Australia
| | - Louise Laverick
- The Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Judith Field
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michele D Binder
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Trevor J Kilpatrick
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
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29
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Ozakpinar OB, Sahin S, Verimli N, Simsek GG, Maurer AM, Eroglu M, Tetik S, Uras F. Association between the growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6) gene polymorphism c.834 + 7G>A and preeclampsia. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2015; 29:1149-53. [PMID: 25915719 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2015.1038516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ozlem Bingol Ozakpinar
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy , Marmara University , Istanbul , Turkey
| | - Sadık Sahin
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology , Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children's Hospital , Istanbul , Turkey
| | - Nihan Verimli
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy , Marmara University , Istanbul , Turkey
| | | | | | - Mustafa Eroglu
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology , Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children's Hospital , Istanbul , Turkey
| | - Sermin Tetik
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy , Marmara University , Istanbul , Turkey
| | - Fikriye Uras
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy , Marmara University , Istanbul , Turkey
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Targeted GAS6 delivery to the CNS protects axons from damage during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. J Neurosci 2015; 34:16320-35. [PMID: 25471571 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2449-14.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth arrest-specific protein 6 (GAS6) is a soluble agonist of the TYRO3, AXL, MERTK (TAM) family of receptor tyrosine kinases identified to have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and promyelinating properties. During experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), wild-type (WT) mice demonstrate a significant induction of Gas6, Axl, and Mertk but not Pros1 or Tyro3 mRNA. We tested the hypothesis that intracerebroventricular delivery of GAS6 directly into the CNS of WT mice during myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-induced EAE would improve the clinical course of disease relative to artificial CSF (ACSF)-treated mice. GAS6 did not delay disease onset, but significantly reduced the clinical scores during peak and chronic EAE. Mice receiving GAS6 for 28 d had preserved SMI31(+) neurofilament immunoreactivity, significantly fewer SMI32(+) axonal swellings and spheroids and less demyelination relative to ACSF-treated mice. Alternate-day subcutaneous IFNβ injection did not enhance GAS6 treatment effectiveness. Gas6(-/-) mice sensitized with MOG35-55 peptide exhibit higher clinical scores during late peak to early chronic disease, with significantly increased SMI32(+) axonal swellings and Iba1(+) microglia/macrophages, enhanced expression of several proinflammatory mRNA molecules, and decreased expression of early oligodendrocyte maturation markers relative to WT mouse spinal cords with scores for 8 consecutive days. During acute EAE, flow cytometry showed significantly more macrophages but not T-cell infiltrates in Gas6(-/-) spinal cords than WT spinal cords. Our data are consistent with GAS6 being protective during EAE by dampening the inflammatory response, thereby preserving axonal integrity and myelination.
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Wang J, Zhang S, Li L, Zhang L. Involvement of Wnt5a within the cerebrospinal fluid-contacting nucleus in nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain. Int J Neurosci 2014; 125:147-53. [PMID: 24738716 DOI: 10.3109/00207454.2014.915399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Studies have demonstrated that the cerebrospinal fluid-contacting nucleus (CSF-CN) is involved in neuropathic pain, but the underlying molecular mechanisms still largely remain obscure. Emerging evidence suggests that spinal Wnt5a plays a crucial role in regulation of chronic pain. However, little is known about the potential role of the supraspinal Wnt5a in the development of chronic pain. To investigate whether Wnt5a exists in the CSF-CN and its role in neuropathic pain, double-labeled immunofluorescence staining was used to identify the expression of Wnt5a in the CSF-CN and western blot analysis of the CSF-CN was employed to verify the alteration of Wnt5a protein in the process of neuropathic pain. In the present study, we demonstrated that Wnt5a is distributed in the CSF-CN and the Wnt5a protein was up-regulated by nerve injury-induced nociceptive stimuli. Furthermore, lateral intracerebroventricular injection of Wnt5a antagonist Box5 attenuated the chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic pain and down-regulated the expression of Wnt5a in the CSF-CN. These data extend our understanding of the role of Wnt5a in supraspinal site and demonstrate that the CSF-CN participates in nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain via the regulation of Wnt5a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical College , Xuzhou, Jiangsu , China
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32
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Gas6 enhances axonal ensheathment by MBP+ membranous processes in human DRG/OL promyelinating co-cultures. ASN Neuro 2014; 6:e00135. [PMID: 24476104 PMCID: PMC4416394 DOI: 10.1042/an20130022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular requirements for human myelination are incompletely defined, and further study is needed to fully understand the cellular mechanisms involved during development and in demyelinating diseases. We have established a human co-culture model to study myelination. Our earlier observations showed that addition of human γ-carboxylated growth-arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6) to human oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) cultures enhanced their survival and maturation. Therefore, we explored the effect of Gas6 in co-cultures of enriched OPCs plated on axons of human fetal dorsal root ganglia explant. Gas6 significantly enhanced the number of myelin basic protein-positive (MBP+) oligodendrocytes with membranous processes parallel with and ensheathing axons relative to co-cultures maintained in defined medium only for 14 days. Gas6 did not increase the overall number of MBP+ oligodendrocytes/culture; however, it significantly increased the length of MBP+ oligodendrocyte processes in contact with and wrapping axons. Multiple oligodendrocytes were in contact with a single axon, and several processes from one oligodendrocyte made contact with one or multiple axons. Electron microscopy supported confocal Z-series microscopy demonstrating axonal ensheathment by MBP+ oligodendrocyte membranous processes in Gas6-treated co-cultures. Contacts between the axonal and oligodendrocyte membranes were evident and multiple wraps of oligodendrocyte membrane around the axon were visible supporting a model system in which to study events in human myelination and aspects of non-compact myelin formation.
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