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Peel E, Hogg C, Belov K. Characterisation of defensins across the marsupial family tree. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 158:105207. [PMID: 38797458 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2024.105207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Defensins are antimicrobial peptides involved in innate immunity, and gene number differs amongst eutherian mammals. Few studies have investigated defensins in marsupials, despite their potential involvement in immunological protection of altricial young. Here we use recently sequenced marsupial genomes and transcriptomes to annotate defensins in nine species across the marsupial family tree. We characterised 35 alpha and 286 beta defensins; gene number differed between species, although Dasyuromorphs had the largest repertoire. Defensins were encoded in three gene clusters within the genome, syntenic to eutherians, and were expressed in the pouch and mammary gland. Marsupial beta defensins were closely related to eutherians, however marsupial alpha defensins were more divergent. We identified marsupial orthologs of human DEFB3 and 6, and several marsupial-specific beta defensin lineages which may have novel functions. Marsupial predicted mature peptides were highly variable in length and sequence composition. We propose candidate peptides for future testing to elucidate the function of marsupial defensins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Peel
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia; Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, Australia.
| | - Carolyn Hogg
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia; Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, Australia.
| | - Katherine Belov
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia; Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, Australia.
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2
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Wozniak W, Sechet E, Kwon YJ, Aulner N, Navarro L, Sperandio B. Identification of human host factors required for beta-defensin-2 expression in intestinal epithelial cells upon a bacterial challenge. Sci Rep 2024; 14:15442. [PMID: 38965312 PMCID: PMC11224401 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66568-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The human intestinal tract is colonized with microorganisms, which present a diverse array of immunological challenges. A number of antimicrobial mechanisms have evolved to cope with these challenges. A key defense mechanism is the expression of inducible antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), such as beta-defensins, which rapidly inactivate microorganisms. We currently have a limited knowledge of mechanisms regulating the inducible expression of AMP genes, especially factors from the host required in these regulatory mechanisms. To identify the host factors required for expression of the beta-defensin-2 gene (HBD2) in intestinal epithelial cells upon a bacterial challenge, we performed a RNAi screen using a siRNA library spanning the whole human genome. The screening was performed in duplicate to select the strongest 79 and 110 hit genes whose silencing promoted or inhibited HBD2 expression, respectively. A set of 57 hits selected among the two groups of genes was subjected to a counter-screening and a subset was subsequently validated for its impact onto HBD2 expression. Among the 57 confirmed hits, we brought out the TLR5-MYD88 signaling pathway, but above all new signaling proteins, epigenetic regulators and transcription factors so far unrevealed in the HBD2 regulatory circuits, like the GATA6 transcription factor involved in inflammatory bowel diseases. This study represents a significant step toward unveiling the key molecular requirements to promote AMP expression in human intestinal epithelial cells, and revealing new potential targets for the development of an innovative therapeutic strategy aiming at stimulating the host AMP expression, at the era of antimicrobial resistance.
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Grants
- This study received fundings from (i) the French Government “Investissement d’Avenir” program, Labex IBEID, with the reference ANR-10-LABX-62-IBEID, (ii) the French Alliance pour les Sciences de la Vie et de la Santé (AVIESAN), ITMO I3M, (iii) the PSL University, through the PSL pré-maturation program, AMPlify project, with the reference C22-78/2022-425, and (iv) the European Union, through the European Innovation Council Pathfinder Open program, MaxImmun project, with the reference 101129622.
- Weronika Wozniak received a Ph.D. funding support from PSL University under the program “Investissement d’Avenir” launched by the French Government and implemented by ANR with the reference ANR-10-IDEX-0001-02 PSL
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Affiliation(s)
- Weronika Wozniak
- Institut de Biologie de l'École Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR8197, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1024, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | | | - Yong-Jun Kwon
- Institut Pasteur Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- Luxembourg Institute of Health, Dudelange, Luxembourg
| | | | - Lionel Navarro
- Institut de Biologie de l'École Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR8197, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1024, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Brice Sperandio
- Institut de Biologie de l'École Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR8197, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1024, Université PSL, Paris, France.
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3
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Wu Z, Yu X, Chen P, Pan M, Liu J, Sahandi J, Zhou W, Mai K, Zhang W. Dietary Clostridium autoethanogenum protein has dose-dependent influence on the gut microbiota, immunity, inflammation and disease resistance of abalone Haliotis discus hannai. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 151:109737. [PMID: 38960106 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Clostridium autoethanogenum protein (CAP) is an eco-friendly protein source and has great application potential in aquafeeds. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary CAP inclusion on the anti-oxidation, immunity, inflammation, disease resistance and gut microbiota of abalone Haliotis discus hannai after a 110-day feeding trial. Three isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets were formulated by adding 0% (control), 4.10% (CAP4.10) and 16.25% (CAP16.25) of CAP, respectively. A total of 540 abalones with an initial mean body weight of 22.05 ± 0.19 g were randomly distributed in three groups with three replicates per group and 60 abalones per replicate. Results showed that the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in the cell-free hemolymph (CFH) were significantly decreased and the content of malondialdehyde in CFH was significantly increased in the CAP16.25 group. The diet with 4.1% of CAP significantly increased the activities of lysozyme and acid phosphatase in CFH. The expressions of pro-inflammatory genes such as tumor necrosis factor-α (tnf-α), nuclear factor-κb (nf-κb) and toll-like receptor 4 (tlr4) in digestive gland were downregulated, and the expressions of anti-inflammatory genes such as β-defensin and mytimacin 6 in digestive gland were upregulated in the CAP4.10 group. Dietary CAP inclusion significantly decreased the cumulative mortality of abalone after the challenge test with Vibrio parahaemolyticus for 7 days. Dietary CAP inclusion changed the composition of gut microbiota of abalone. Besides, the balance of the ecological interaction network of bacterial genera in the intestine of abalone was enhanced by dietary CAP. The association analysis showed that two bacterial genera Ruegeria and Bacteroides were closely correlated with the inflammatory genes. In conclusion, the 4.10% of dietary CAP enhanced the immunity and disease resistance as well as inhibited the inflammation of abalone. The 16.25% of dietary CAP decreased the anti-oxidative capacity of abalone. The structure of the gut microbiota of abalone changed with dietary CAP levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhua Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), The Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feeds (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xiaojun Yu
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), The Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feeds (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Peng Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), The Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feeds (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Mingzhu Pan
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), The Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feeds (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Jiahuan Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), The Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feeds (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Javad Sahandi
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), The Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feeds (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Wanyou Zhou
- Weihai JinPai Biological Technology Co., Ltd, Weihai, China
| | - Kangsen Mai
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), The Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feeds (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Wenbing Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), The Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feeds (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China.
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Ferrucci V, Miceli M, Pagliuca C, Bianco O, Castaldo L, Izzo L, Cozzolino M, Zannella C, Oglio F, Polcaro A, Randazzo A, Colicchio R, Galdiero M, Berni Canani R, Salvatore P, Zollo M. Modulation of innate immunity related genes resulting in prophylactic antimicrobial and antiviral properties. J Transl Med 2024; 22:574. [PMID: 38886736 PMCID: PMC11184722 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05378-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The innate immunity acts during the early phases of infection and its failure in response to a multilayer network of co-infections is cause of immune system dysregulation. Epidemiological SARS-CoV-2 infections data, show that Influenza Virus (FLU-A-B-C) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are co-habiting those respiratory traits. These viruses, especially in children (mostly affected by 'multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children' [MIS-C] and the winter pandemic FLU), in the aged population, and in 'fragile' patients are causing alteration in immune response. Then, bacterial and fungal pathogens are also co-habiting the upper respiratory traits (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans), thus contributing to morbidity in those COVID-19 affected patients. METHODS Liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry using the quadrupole orbital ion trap analyser (i.e., UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS) was adopted to measure the polyphenols content of a new nutraceutical formula (Solution-3). Viral infections with SARS-CoV-2 (EG.5), FLU-A and RSV-A viruses (as performed in BLS3 authorised laboratory) and real time RT-PCR (qPCR) assay were used to test the antiviral action of the nutraceutical formula. Dilution susceptibility tests have been used to estimate the minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration (MIC and MBC, respectively) of Solution-3 on a variety of microorganisms belonging to Gram positive/ negative bacteria and fungi. Transcriptomic data analyses and functional genomics (i.e., RNAseq and data mining), coupled to qPCR and ELISA assays have been used to investigate the mechanisms of action of the nutraceutical formula on those processes involved in innate immune response. RESULTS Here, we have tested the combination of natural products containing higher amounts of polyphenols (i.e., propolis, Verbascum thapsus L., and Thymus vulgaris L.), together with the inorganic long chain polyphosphates 'polyPs' with antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal behaviours, against SARS-CoV-2, FLU-A, RSV-A, Gram positive/ negative bacteria and fungi (i.e., Candida albicans). These components synergistically exert an immunomodulatory action by enhancing those processes involved in innate immune response (e.g., cytokines: IFNγ, TNFα, IL-10, IL-6/12; chemokines: CXCL1; antimicrobial peptides: HBD-2, LL-37; complement system: C3). CONCLUSION The prophylactic antimicrobial success of this nutraceutical formula against SARS-CoV-2, FLU-A and RSV-A viruses, together with the common bacteria and fungi co-infections as present in human oral cavity, is expected to be valuable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Ferrucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate 'Franco Salvatore', Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy.
- Elysium Cell Bio Ita, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy.
| | - Marco Miceli
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate 'Franco Salvatore', Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Pagliuca
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Orazio Bianco
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate 'Franco Salvatore', Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Castaldo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Luana Izzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Marica Cozzolino
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate 'Franco Salvatore', Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Franca Oglio
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate 'Franco Salvatore', Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Polcaro
- Polcaro Fitopreparazioni S.R.L, Via Sant Agnello, 9 D; 80030, Roccarainola, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Randazzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Colicchio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
- UOC of Virology and Microbiology, University Hospital of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Berni Canani
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate 'Franco Salvatore', Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Salvatore
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate 'Franco Salvatore', Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Zollo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology (DMMBM), University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate 'Franco Salvatore', Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy.
- Elysium Cell Bio Ita, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy.
- DAI Medicina di Laboratorio e Trasfusionale, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Bai Y, Zhang W, Zheng W, Meng XZ, Duan Y, Zhang C, Chen F, Wang KJ. A 14-amino acid cationic peptide Bolespleenin 334-347 from the marine fish mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris exhibiting potent antimicrobial activity and therapeutic potential. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 226:116344. [PMID: 38852647 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are an important component of innate immunity in both vertebrates and invertebrates, and some of the unique characteristics of AMPs are usually associated with their living environment. The marine fish, mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris, usually live amphibiously in intertidal environments that are quite different from other fish species, which would be an exceptional source of new AMPs. In the study, an AMP named Bolespleenin334-347 was identified, which was a truncated peptide derived from a new functional gene found in B. pectinirostris, that was up-regulated in response to bacterial challenge. Bolespleenin334-347 had only 14 amino acid residues, including five consecutive arginine residues. It was found that the peptide had broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, good thermal stability and sodium ion tolerance. Bolespleenin334-347 killed Acinetobacter baumannii and Staphylococcus aureus by disrupting the structural integrity of the bacterial membrane, leading to leakage of the cellular contents, and inducing accumulation of bacterial endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition, Bolespleenin334-347 effectively inhibited biofilm formation of A. baumannii and S. aureus and long-term treatment did not lead to the development of resistance. Importantly, Bolespleenin334-347 maintained stable activity against clinically multi-drug resistant bacterial strains. In addition, it was noteworthy that Bolespleenin334-347 showed superior efficacy to LL-37 and vancomycin in a constructed mouse model of MRSA-induced superficial skin infections, as evidenced by a significant reduction in bacterial load and more favorable wound healing. This study provides an effective antimicrobial agent for topical skin infections with potential therapeutic efficacy for infections with drug-resistant bacteria, including MRSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqi Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Weibin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Wenbin Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xin-Zhan Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yingyi Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Fangyi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Fujian Innovation Research Institute for Marine Biological Antimicrobial Peptide Industrial Technology, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
| | - Ke-Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Fujian Innovation Research Institute for Marine Biological Antimicrobial Peptide Industrial Technology, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
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Kurlekar S, Lima JDCC, Li R, Lombardi O, Masson N, Barros AB, Pontecorvi V, Mole DR, Pugh CW, Adam J, Ratcliffe PJ. Oncogenic Cell Tagging and Single-Cell Transcriptomics Reveal Cell Type-Specific and Time-Resolved Responses to Vhl Inactivation in the Kidney. Cancer Res 2024; 84:1799-1816. [PMID: 38502859 PMCID: PMC11148546 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-3248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Defining the initial events in oncogenesis and the cellular responses they entrain, even in advance of morphologic abnormality, is a fundamental challenge in understanding cancer initiation. As a paradigm to address this, we longitudinally studied the changes induced by loss of the tumor suppressor gene von Hippel Lindau (VHL), which ultimately drives clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Vhl inactivation was directly coupled to expression of a tdTomato reporter within a single allele, allowing accurate visualization of affected cells in their native context and retrieval from the kidney for single-cell RNA sequencing. This strategy uncovered cell type-specific responses to Vhl inactivation, defined a proximal tubular cell class with oncogenic potential, and revealed longer term adaptive changes in the renal epithelium and the interstitium. Oncogenic cell tagging also revealed markedly heterogeneous cellular effects including time-limited proliferation and elimination of specific cell types. Overall, this study reports an experimental strategy for understanding oncogenic processes in which cells bearing genetic alterations can be generated in their native context, marked, and analyzed over time. The observed effects of loss of Vhl in kidney cells provide insights into VHL tumor suppressor action and development of renal cell carcinoma. SIGNIFICANCE Single-cell analysis of heterogeneous and dynamic responses to Vhl inactivation in the kidney suggests that early events shape the cell type specificity of oncogenesis, providing a focus for mechanistic understanding and therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samvid Kurlekar
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna D C C Lima
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ran Li
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Olivia Lombardi
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Norma Masson
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ayslan B Barros
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Virginia Pontecorvi
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - David R Mole
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher W Pugh
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Adam
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J Ratcliffe
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, United Kingdom
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Han J, Balasubramanian I, Flores JA, Bandyopadhyay S, Yang J, Liu Y, Singh R, Setty P, Kiela P, Ferraris R, Gao N. Intestinal lysozyme engagement of Salmonella Typhimurium stimulates the release of barrier-impairing InvE and Lpp1. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107424. [PMID: 38823640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Lysozyme is a β-1,4-glycosidase that hydrolyzes the polysaccharide backbone of bacterial cell walls. With an additional bactericidal function mediated by a separate protein domain, lysozyme is considered a uniquely important antimicrobial molecule contributing to the host's innate immune response to infection. Elevated lysozyme production is found in various inflammatory conditions while patients with genetic risks for inflammatory bowel diseases demonstrate abnormal lysozyme expression, granule packaging, and secretion in Paneth cells. However, it remains unclear how a gain- or loss-of-function in host lysozyme may impact the host inflammatory responses to pathogenic infection. We challenged Lyz1-/- and ectopic Lyz1-expressing (Villin-Lyz1TG) mice with S. Typhimurium and then comprehensively assessed the inflammatory disease progression. We conducted proteomics analysis to identify molecules derived from human lysozyme-mediated processing of live Salmonella. We examined the barrier-impairing effects of these identified molecules in human intestinal epithelial cell monolayer and enteroids. Lyz1-/- mice are protected from infection in terms of morbidity, mortality, and barrier integrity, whereas Villin-Lyz1TG mice demonstrate exacerbated infection and inflammation. The growth and invasion of Salmonella in vitro are not affected by human or chicken lysozyme, whereas lysozyme encountering of live Salmonella stimulates the release of barrier-disrupting factors, InvE-sipC and Lpp1, which directly or indirectly impair the tight junctions. The direct engagement of host intestinal lysozyme with an enteric pathogen such as Salmonella promotes the release of virulence factors that are barrier-impairing and pro-inflammatory. Controlling lysozyme function may help alleviate the inflammatory progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangmeng Han
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Juan A Flores
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Jiaxing Yang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Yue Liu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Rajbir Singh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Prashanth Setty
- Department of Pediatrics, Daniel Cracchiolo Institute for Pediatric Autoimmune Disease Research, Steele Children's Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Pawel Kiela
- Department of Pediatrics, Daniel Cracchiolo Institute for Pediatric Autoimmune Disease Research, Steele Children's Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Ronaldo Ferraris
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Nan Gao
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA.
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8
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Hao S, Shi W, Chen L, Kong T, Wang B, Chen S, Guo X. CATH-2-derived antimicrobial peptide inhibits multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli infection in chickens. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1390934. [PMID: 38812753 PMCID: PMC11133627 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1390934] [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: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Avian colibacillosis (AC), caused by infection with Escherichia coli (E. coli), is a major threat to poultry health, food safety and public health, and results in high mortality and significant economic losses. Currently, new drugs are urgently needed to replace antibiotics due to the continuous emergence and increasing resistance of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of E. coli caused by the irrational use of antibiotics in agriculture and animal husbandry. In recent years, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which uniquely evolved to protect the host, have emerged as a leading alternative to antibiotics in clinical settings. CATH-2, a member of the antimicrobial cathelicidin peptide family, has been reported to have antibacterial activity. To enhance the antimicrobial potency and reduce the adverse effects on animals, we designed five novel AMPs, named C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4 and C2-5, based on chicken CATH-2, the secondary structures of these AMPs were consistently α-helical and had an altered net charge and hydrophobicity compared to those of the CATH-2 (1-15) sequences. Subsequently, the antimicrobial activities of CATH-2 (1-15) and five designed peptides against MDR E. coli were evaluated in vitro. Specifically, C2-2 showed excellent antimicrobial activity against either the ATCC standard strain or veterinary clinical isolates of MDR E. coli, with concentrations ranging from 2-8 μg/mL. Furthermore, C2-2 maintained its strong antibacterial efficacy under high temperature and saline conditions, demonstrating significant stability. Similarly, C2-2 retained a high level of safety with no significant hemolytic activity on chicken mature red blood cells or cytotoxicity on chicken kidney cells over the concentration range of 0-64 μg/mL. Moreover, the administration of C2-2 improved the survival rate and reduced the bacterial load in the heart, liver and spleen during MDR E. coli infection in chickens. Additionally, pathological damage to the heart, liver and intestine was prevented when MDR E. coli infected chickens were treated with C2-2. Together, our study showed that C2-2 may be a promising novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of MDR E. coli infections and AC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihao Hao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Wenhui Shi
- Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liujun Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Tianyou Kong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Bin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Shuming Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Xiaomin Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
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9
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Demian WL, Cormier O, Mossman K. Immunological features of bats: resistance and tolerance to emerging viruses. Trends Immunol 2024; 45:198-210. [PMID: 38453576 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2024.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Bats are among the most diverse mammalian species, representing over 20% of mammalian diversity. The past two decades have witnessed a disproportionate spillover of viruses from bats to humans compared with other mammalian hosts, attributed to the viral richness within bats, their phylogenetic likeness to humans, and increased human contact with wildlife. Unique evolutionary adaptations in bat genomes, particularly in antiviral protection and immune tolerance genes, enable bats to serve as reservoirs for pandemic-inducing viruses. Here, we discuss current limitations and advances made in understanding the role of bats as drivers of pandemic zoonoses. We also discuss novel technologies that have revealed spatial, dynamic, and physiological factors driving virus and host coevolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael L Demian
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Olga Cormier
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen Mossman
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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10
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Sun X, Tian S, Yan S, Sun W, Miao J, Yue Y, Han S, Huang S, Xu N, Diao J, Zhou Z, Zhu W. Bifidobacterium mediate gut microbiota-remedied intestinal barrier damage caused by cyproconazole in zebrafish (Danio rerio). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169556. [PMID: 38135070 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The widespread use of cyproconazole (CPZ) enhances food security but may pose potential risks to non-target organisms. Therefore, we applied Multi-omics techniques to reveal the response of the intestinal barrier to CPZ exposure and explore whether the Bifidobacterium intervention experiment can repair the damage. First, we found that exposure to CPZ at environmentally relevant concentrations led to intestinal injury phenotype, significantly down-regulated intestinal protein gene expression, and up-regulated pro-inflammatory gene expression, further causing intestinal dysbacteriosis and metabolic disorders. In particular, by combining analysis of gut microbiota and metabolites, we noticed acetate, a key metabolite, which decreased sharply after exposure to high concentration of CPZ. Expectedly, after supplementing with Bifidobacterium (a core bacterium that produces acetate), we noticed that the acetate content was quickly restored. Further, we also verified that the increase in acetate content after Bifidobacterium supplementation at least partially promoted IL-22 secretion, which in turn stimulated the secretion of β-defensins (zfbd-1, zfbd-2, zfbd-3), thereby repairing the intestinal damage. In conclusion, our work confirms the potential of Bifidobacterium to improve intestinal damage and metabolic dysbiosis caused by CPZ exposure. It provides directional recommendations for the application of probiotics to repair the toxicological risk of pesticide exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan Sun
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sinuo Tian
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Sen Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiyan Miao
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yifan Yue
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shihang Han
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shiran Huang
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ning Xu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jinling Diao
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Wentao Zhu
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
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11
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Tang S, Peel E, Belov K, Hogg CJ, Farquharson KA. Multi-omics resources for the Australian southern stuttering frog (Mixophyes australis) reveal assorted antimicrobial peptides. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3991. [PMID: 38368484 PMCID: PMC10874372 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54522-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The number of genome-level resources for non-model species continues to rapidly expand. However, frog species remain underrepresented, with up to 90% of frog genera having no genomic or transcriptomic data. Here, we assemble the first genomic and transcriptomic resources for the recently described southern stuttering frog (Mixophyes australis). The southern stuttering frog is ground-dwelling, inhabiting naturally vegetated riverbanks in south-eastern Australia. Using PacBio HiFi long-read sequencing and Hi-C scaffolding, we generated a high-quality genome assembly, with a scaffold N50 of 369.3 Mb and 95.1% of the genome contained in twelve scaffolds. Using this assembly, we identified the mitochondrial genome, and assembled six tissue-specific transcriptomes. We also bioinformatically characterised novel sequences of two families of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in the southern stuttering frog, the cathelicidins and β-defensins. While traditional peptidomic approaches to peptide discovery have typically identified one or two AMPs in a frog species from skin secretions, our bioinformatic approach discovered 12 cathelicidins and two β-defensins that were expressed in a range of tissues. We investigated the novelty of the peptides and found diverse predicted activities. Our bioinformatic approach highlights the benefits of multi-omics resources in peptide discovery and contributes valuable genomic resources in an under-represented taxon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Tang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Emma Peel
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Katherine Belov
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Carolyn J Hogg
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Katherine A Farquharson
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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12
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Mahmoud MM, Al-Hejin AM, Abujamel TS, Ghetas AM, Yacoub HA. Chicken β-defensin-1 peptide as a candidate anticoccidial agent in broiler chickens. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:3108-3125. [PMID: 36309816 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2136677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The current study aimed to investigate the potentiality of using avian β-defensin-1 peptide as a candidate agent against coccidiosis infection in broiler chicken.We employed an in-silico analysis to study the primary structure of β-defensin-1 peptide as well as its 3-D and molecular dynamic structures. This will also enable obtaining adequate information about the mode of action of these peptides and the intra-cellular transduction pathways. The results revealed no significant difference among groups of broiler chicken in terms of body weight before the Eimeria challenge.The results of our study indicated a significant reduction in oocyst count in birds administered β-defensin-1 peptide treatment, vis-a-vis healthy birds. The treated group showed a 2-3 times reduction in oocyst count, compared to the positive control group. The Eimeria oocysts count evaluated for birds administered with β-defensin-1 after the Eimeria challenge showed a significant difference. The study indicated significant reduction and down-regulation in the level of expression of β-defensin 1 and 4 in the control and treatment groups.This electrostatic profile and hydrophobicity regulate the functioning of this peptide. The results may help in the development of novel approaches that could be used as alternatives or adjunct to the existing means of coccidiosis control in broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maged M Mahmoud
- Regerenative Medicine Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (SA)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (SA)
- Molecular Genetics and Enzymology Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M Al-Hejin
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki S Abujamel
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (SA)
- Vaccines and Immunotherapy Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center (KFMRC), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (SA)
| | - Aly M Ghetas
- Poultry Diseases Department, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Haitham A Yacoub
- Cell Biology Department, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
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13
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Watanabe R, Matsugaki A, Gokcekaya O, Ozasa R, Matsumoto T, Takahashi H, Yasui H, Nakano T. Host bone microstructure for enhanced resistance to bacterial infections. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 154:213633. [PMID: 37775399 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Postoperative bacterial infection is a serious complication of orthopedic surgery. Not only infections that develop in the first few weeks after surgery but also late infections that develop years after surgery are serious problems. However, the relationship between host bone and infection activation has not yet been explored. Here, we report a novel association between host bone collagen/apatite microstructure and bacterial infection. The bone-mimetic-oriented micro-organized matrix structure was obtained by prolonged controlled cell alignment using a grooved-structured biomedical titanium alloy. Surprisingly, we have discovered that highly aligned osteoblasts have a potent inhibitory effect on Escherichia coli adhesion. Additionally, the oriented collagen/apatite micro-organization of the bone matrix showed excellent antibacterial resistance against Escherichia coli. The proposed mechanism for realizing the antimicrobial activity of the micro-organized bone matrix is by the controlled secretion of the antimicrobial peptides, including β-defensin 2 and β-defensin 3, from the highly aligned osteoblasts. Our findings contribute to the development of anti-infective strategies for orthopedic surgeries. The recovery of the intrinsically ordered bone matrix organization provides superior antibacterial resistance after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Watanabe
- Teijin Nakashima Medical Co. Ltd., 688-1 Joto-Kitagata, Higashi-ku, Okayama 709-0625, Japan; Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1, Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Aira Matsugaki
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1, Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Ozkan Gokcekaya
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1, Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Ryosuke Ozasa
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1, Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Takuya Matsumoto
- Department of Biomaterials, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 2-5-1, Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Takahashi
- Teijin Nakashima Medical Co. Ltd., 688-1 Joto-Kitagata, Higashi-ku, Okayama 709-0625, Japan.
| | - Hidekazu Yasui
- Teijin Nakashima Medical Co. Ltd., 688-1 Joto-Kitagata, Higashi-ku, Okayama 709-0625, Japan.
| | - Takayoshi Nakano
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1, Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
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14
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Pambianchi E, Hagenberg Z, Pecorelli A, Pasqui A, Therrien JP, Valacchi G. Tension as a key factor in skin responses to pollution. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16013. [PMID: 37749125 PMCID: PMC10519937 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42629-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Being the more apparent organ exposed to the outdoor stressors, the effect of pollution on the skin has been widely studied in the last few decades. Although UV light is known as the most aggressive stressor to which our cutaneous tissue is daily exposed, other components of the tropospheric pollution have also shown to affect skin health and functionality. Among them, ozone has been proven to be one of the most toxic due to its high reactivity with the epidermal lipids. Studying the cutaneous effect of pollution in a laboratory setting presents challenges, therefore it becomes critical to employ appropriate and tailored models that aim to answer specific questions. Several skin models are available nowadays: in vitro models (2D cell lines and 3D cutaneous tissues), ex vivo skin explants and in vivo approaches (animals and humans). Although in the last 20 years researchers developed skin models that closely resemble human skin (3D cutaneous tissues), ex vivo skin explants still remain one of the best models to study cutaneous responses. Unfortunately, one important cutaneous property that is not present in the traditional ex vivo human skin explants is the physiological tension, which has been shown to be a cardinal player in skin structure, homeostasis, functional properties and responses to external stimuli. For this reason, in this study, to confirm and further comprehend the harmful mechanism of ozone exposure on the integumentary system, we have performed experiments using the state of art in cutaneous models: the innovative TenSkin™ model in which ex vivo human skin explants are cultured under physiologically relevant tension during the whole experimental procedure. Specifically, we were interested in corroborating previous findings showing that ozone exposure modulates the expression of cutaneous antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). The present work demonstrates that cutaneous exposure to ozone induces AMPs gene and protein levels (CAMP/LL-37, hBD2, hBD3) and that the presence of tension can further modulate their expression. In addition, different responses between tension and non-tension cultured skin were also observed during the evaluation of OxInflammatory markers [cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), matrix-metallo-proteinase 9 (MMP9) and 4-hydroxy-nonenal (4HNE)]. This current study supports our previous findings confirming the ability of pollution to induce the cutaneous expression of AMPs via redox signaling and corroborates the principle that skin explants are a good and reliable model to study skin responses even though it underlines the need to holistically consider the role of skin tension before extrapolating the data to real life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Pambianchi
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Zachary Hagenberg
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
- Toscana Life Sciences Foundation, 53100, Siena, Italy
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, Plants for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Arianna Pasqui
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
- Toscana Life Sciences Foundation, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Jean-Philippe Therrien
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, Plants for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA.
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Korea.
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15
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Narayan C, Kant V, Mahajan JK, Mohan B, Taneja N. Differential invasiveness & expression of antimicrobial peptides in Shigella serotypes. Indian J Med Res 2023; 158:303-310. [PMID: 37815071 PMCID: PMC10720961 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_4864_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & objectives The study of Shigella pathogenesis at present is severely hampered by the lack of a relevant animal model that replicates human bacillary dysentery. Different Shigella serogroups cause varying severity of clinical illness. Ex vivo colonization of Shigella flexneri, S. dysenteriae and S. sonnei were characterized in human paediatric colonic pinch biopsies in the in vitro organ culture (IVOC) model to study the invasiveness of Shigella by gentamicin protection assay (GPA). Furthermore, the expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in response to different serotypes of Shigella was also studied in IVOC model. Methods IVOC explants were inoculated with 109 colony forming units of different serotypes of Shigella and recovery of bacteria studied. Histopathological analysis was carried out to study inflammatory immune responses. GPA was done to elucidate the invasiveness of different serotypes of Shigella. Secretions of AMPs were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blotting was performed to check the expression of AMPs and nuclear factor kappa B in IVOC explants. Results After 24 h post-infection, the colon biopsies showed intense inflammatory reaction. In both IVOC and GPA, S. dysenteriae 1 was the most invasive as compared to S. flexneri and S. sonnei. S. sonnei was the least invasive. ELISA demonstrated that S. sonnei dampened the HBD (human β-defensin)-2 responses whereas there was augmentation by S. dysenteriae and there was a modest but non-significant increase by S. flexneri. A modest increase in HBD-3 by S. sonnei and S. flexneri was observed but was not found to be significant. However, western blotting data showed upregulation of all AMPs by all serotypes. Western blotting is more sensitive than ELISA. Interpretation & conclusions In the present study, differences in invasiveness and AMP production induced by different serotypes of Shigella were found. Human intestinal IVOC represents a model system to investigate early interaction between pathogenic bacteria and the human gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandradeo Narayan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vishal Kant
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Jai Kumar Mahajan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Balvinder Mohan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Neelam Taneja
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
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16
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Brovkina MV, Chapman MA, Holding ML, Clowney EJ. Emergence and influence of sequence bias in evolutionarily malleable, mammalian tandem arrays. BMC Biol 2023; 21:179. [PMID: 37612705 PMCID: PMC10463633 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01673-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The radiation of mammals at the extinction of the dinosaurs produced a plethora of new forms-as diverse as bats, dolphins, and elephants-in only 10-20 million years. Behind the scenes, adaptation to new niches is accompanied by extensive innovation in large families of genes that allow animals to contact the environment, including chemosensors, xenobiotic enzymes, and immune and barrier proteins. Genes in these "outward-looking" families are allelically diverse among humans and exhibit tissue-specific and sometimes stochastic expression. RESULTS Here, we show that these tandem arrays of outward-looking genes occupy AT-biased isochores and comprise the "tissue-specific" gene class that lack CpG islands in their promoters. Models of mammalian genome evolution have not incorporated the sharply different functions and transcriptional patterns of genes in AT- versus GC-biased regions. To examine the relationship between gene family expansion, sequence content, and allelic diversity, we use population genetic data and comparative analysis. First, we find that AT bias can emerge during evolutionary expansion of gene families in cis. Second, human genes in AT-biased isochores or with GC-poor promoters experience relatively low rates of de novo point mutation today but are enriched for non-synonymous variants. Finally, we find that isochores containing gene clusters exhibit low rates of recombination. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses suggest that tolerance of non-synonymous variation and low recombination are two forces that have produced the depletion of GC bases in outward-facing gene arrays. In turn, high AT content exerts a profound effect on their chromatin organization and transcriptional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita V Brovkina
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Margaret A Chapman
- Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - E Josephine Clowney
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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17
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Majewska A, Gajewska M, Dembele K. Effect of Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy on Transcriptomic Changes in Canine Atopic Dermatitis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11616. [PMID: 37511372 PMCID: PMC10380577 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is a genetic, chronic, and recurrent inflammatory and pruritic skin disorder. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) is presently recognized as the only clinically effective disease-modifying treatment for allergies. The aim of our study was to analyze the changes in gene expression observed in the peripheral blood nuclear cells of cAD patients subjected to ASIT. Blood samples designated for transcriptomic analyses were collected from AD dogs twice, before and six months after ASIT, and also from healthy dogs. Statistical analysis revealed 521 differentially expressed transcripts, among which 241 transcripts represented genes with well-described functions. Based on the available literature, we chose nine differentially expressed genes (RARRES2, DPP10, SLPI, PLSCR4, MMP9, NTSR1, CBD103, DEFB122, and IL36G) which may be important in the context of the dysregulated immune response observed in cAD patients. The expressions of five out of the nine described genes (DPP10, PLSCR4, NTSR1, DEFB122, and IL36G) changed after the application of ASIT. The expressions of three of these genes returned to the level observed in the healthy control group. The genes listed above need further investigation to determine details of their role in the molecular mechanism of immune tolerance induction in response to allergen-specific immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Majewska
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Gajewska
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kourou Dembele
- Department of Small Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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Stojowska-Swędrzyńska K, Kuczyńska-Wiśnik D, Laskowska E. New Strategies to Kill Metabolically-Dormant Cells Directly Bypassing the Need for Active Cellular Processes. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1044. [PMID: 37370363 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12061044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic therapy failure is often caused by the presence of persister cells, which are metabolically-dormant bacteria capable of surviving exposure to antimicrobials. Under favorable conditions, persisters can resume growth leading to recurrent infections. Moreover, several studies have indicated that persisters may promote the evolution of antimicrobial resistance and facilitate the selection of specific resistant mutants; therefore, in light of the increasing numbers of multidrug-resistant infections worldwide, developing efficient strategies against dormant cells is of paramount importance. In this review, we present and discuss the efficacy of various agents whose antimicrobial activity is independent of the metabolic status of the bacteria as they target cell envelope structures. Since the biofilm-environment is favorable for the formation of dormant subpopulations, anti-persister strategies should also include agents that destroy the biofilm matrix or inhibit biofilm development. This article reviews examples of selected cell wall hydrolases, polysaccharide depolymerases and antimicrobial peptides. Their combination with standard antibiotics seems to be the most promising approach in combating persistent infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Stojowska-Swędrzyńska
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Dorota Kuczyńska-Wiśnik
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Ewa Laskowska
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
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19
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Lyu Z, Yang P, Lei J, Zhao J. Biological Function of Antimicrobial Peptides on Suppressing Pathogens and Improving Host Immunity. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1037. [PMID: 37370356 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12061037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of drug-resistant genes and concerns about food safety caused by the overuse of antibiotics are becoming increasingly prominent. There is an urgent need for effective alternatives to antibiotics in the fields of livestock production and human medicine. Antimicrobial peptides can effectively replace antibiotics to kill pathogens and enhance the immune functions of the host, and pathogens cannot easily produce genes that are resistant to them. The ability of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to kill pathogens is associated with their structure and physicochemical properties, such as their conformation, electrical charges, hydrophilicity, and hydrophobicity. AMPs regulate the activity of immunological cells and stimulate the secretion of inflammatory cytokines via the activation of the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. However, there are still some limitations to the application of AMPs in the fields of livestock production and human medicine, including a restricted source base, high costs of purification and expression, and the instability of the intestines of animals and humans. This review summarizes the information on AMPs as effective antibiotic substitutes to improve the immunological functions of the host through suppressing pathogens and regulating inflammatory responses. Potential challenges for the commercial application of AMPs in animal husbandry and human medicine are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqian Lyu
- Guangdong Haid Group Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 511400, China
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Pan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jian Lei
- Guangdong Haid Group Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 511400, China
- Qingyuan Haibei BIO-TECH Co., Ltd., Qingyuan 511853, China
| | - Jinbiao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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20
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Hassanshahi F, Noroozi Karimabad M, Miranzadeh E, Hassanshahi G, Torabizadeh SA, Jebali A. The Serum Level of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 and the Expression of CXCR3 of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Brucellosis Patients. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:201. [PMID: 37140634 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03230-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Brucella spp. can replicate in human endothelial cells, inducing an inflammatory response with increased expression of chemokines. Although Brucella infects humans, its ability to induce the production of chemokines by lung cells is unknown. Therefore, the current investigation was designed to examine the association between brucellosis and CXCL9, 10, and 11 chemokines. The patient group included 71 patients suffering from Brucella infection and the control group consisted of 50 healthy ranchers from the same geographical area. Serum levels of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 were analyzed by ELISA. The fold changes of CXCR3 expression against β-actin were determined by real-time-PCR technique. Western blotting analysis was also applied for evaluating the expression of CXCR3 at protein level. The results of this study showed that the serum levels of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 are significantly increased in acute brucellosis patients in comparison to control as indicated by ELISA test, mRNA levels of CXCR3 by Real-time PCR as well as protein levels of CXCR3 by Western blot analysis. According to findings, these chemokines have the potential to serve as markers for brucellosis patients. Taken together, cytokine/chemokine network was active in acute brucellosis patients, and it is suggested to evaluate other cytokines in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Hassanshahi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad university Shahr-E-Kord -Branch, Shahr-e-kord, Iran
| | - Mojgan Noroozi Karimabad
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Science, Rafsanjan, Iran.
| | - Elahe Miranzadeh
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad university Shahr-E-Kord -Branch, Shahr-e-kord, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Hassanshahi
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Science, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Atekeh Torabizadeh
- Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Jebali
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Science, Rafsanjan, Iran
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21
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Fesahat F, Firouzabadi AM, Zare-Zardini H, Imani M. Roles of Different β-Defensins in the Human Reproductive System: A Review Study. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231182673. [PMID: 37381627 PMCID: PMC10334010 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231182673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Human β-defensins (hBDs) are cationic peptides with an amphipathic spatial shape and a high cysteine content. The members of this peptide family have been found in the human body with various functions, including the human reproductive system. Of among β-defensins in the human body, β-defensin 1, β-defensin 2, and β-defensin 126 are known in the human reproductive system. Human β-defensin 1 interacts with chemokine receptor 6 (CCR6) in the male reproductive system to prevent bacterial infections. This peptide has a positive function in antitumor immunity by recruiting dendritic cells and memory T cells in prostate cancer. It is necessary for fertilization via facilitating capacitation and acrosome reaction in the female reproductive system. Human β-defensin 2 is another peptide with antibacterial action which can minimize infection in different parts of the female reproductive system such as the vagina by interacting with CCR6. Human β-defensin 2 could play a role in preventing cervical cancer via interactions with dendritic cells. Human β-defensin 126 is required for sperm motility and protecting the sperm against immune system factors. This study attempted to review the updated knowledge about the roles of β-defensin 1, β-defensin 2, and β-defensin 126 in both the male and female reproductive systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Fesahat
- Reproductive Immunology Research
Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Amir Masoud Firouzabadi
- Reproductive Immunology Research
Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hadi Zare-Zardini
- Hematology and Oncology Research
Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Maryam Imani
- Reproductive Immunology Research
Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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22
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Feng J, Jia Z, Yuan G, Zhu X, Liu Q, Wu K, Wang J, Zou J. Expression and functional characterization of three β-defensins in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 140:104616. [PMID: 36565823 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2022.104616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
β-defensins (BDs) are a group of cysteine-rich cationic antimicrobial peptides and play important roles in the first line of defense against infection. In this study, the expression and antibacterial activities of three grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) (Ci) β-defensin (BD) peptides were comparatively investigated. Expression analysis reveals that CiBD1-3 were constitutively expressed in tissues, with the highest expression detected in the skin. The CiBD-1 transcripts were more abundant than CiBD-2 and CiBD-3. In the primary head kidney leukocytes, CiBDs were induced by PHA, LPS, poly(I:C) and cytokines such as IL-1β and IFN-γ. In vivo challenge of fish with Aeromonas hydrophila resulted in the up-regulation of CiBDs in the head kidney and hindgut. To determine the biological activities, recombinant CiBD proteins were produced in the HEK293-F cells and purified for the minimum inhibitory concentration assay. It was found that all three recombinant CiBD proteins were effective to inhibit the growth of Gram-negative fish bacterial pathogens including Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda, Flavobacterium columnare and Klebsiella pneumoniae and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus. CiBD-2 and CiBD-3 were more effective than CiBD-1. Our results demonstrate that all the three CiBDs have broad antibacterial activity against fish bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Feng
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Zhao Jia
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Gaoliang Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Xiaozhen Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Qin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Kaizheng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Junya Wang
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Jun Zou
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266200, China.
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23
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Eggerstedt M, Torres-Maldonado S, Danielian A, Hwang SHJ, Echanique KA. Impact of defensins-containing body cream on skin composition. J Cosmet Dermatol 2023; 22:620-627. [PMID: 35621235 PMCID: PMC10087582 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.15118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Defensins are peptides capable of reactivating latent LGR6 stem cells in the basal layer. When applied topically, these peptides can reduce signs of skin aging and increase dermal thickness. This study investigates the effects of a topical defensin formulation on extremity skin composition. METHODS An open label, single arm clinical trial was conducted on participants with dry, photoaged, or dull skin. A defensin-containing hand and body cream was applied twice daily for 6 weeks to the hands, forearms, elbows, and knees. Photographs and objective measurements of skin hydration, viscoelasticity (VE), retraction time (RT), thickness, density/transepidermal water loss (TEWL), as well as self-evaluation of skin quality and characteristics were obtained pre- and post- intervention. RESULTS After the study period, RT decreased by 56% across all body sites (p < 0.001) and VE improved at the elbow (125%, p = 0.009) and knee (110%, p < 0.001). Skin density also increased in all 4 body sites (40%, p < 0.001), while skin thickness increased at the elbow (29%, p = 0.03) and knee (17%, p = 0.04). Skin hydration increased at the elbow, knee, and forearm by 99%, 28%, and 16%, respectively (p < 0.05), while TEWL improved at the elbow only (-39%, p = 0.02). Patients' self-evaluations showed improvements in overall skin quality and in the domains of dryness, ashiness, wrinkling, pigmentation, redness, roughness, and discomfort (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Following 6-week use of a defensin-containing cream, subjects reported significant improvement across many subjective skin domains. Similarly, objective measurements demonstrated significant improvement in skin architecture at select sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Eggerstedt
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Solymar Torres-Maldonado
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Arman Danielian
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Song Hon Josh Hwang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kristen A Echanique
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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24
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Lee S, Yoo I, Cheon Y, Hong M, Jeon BY, Ka H. Antimicrobial peptides β-defensin family: Expression and regulation in the endometrium during the estrous cycle and pregnancy in pigs. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 139:104596. [PMID: 36442607 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2022.104596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Members of the β-defensin (DEFB) family, which are antimicrobial peptides and humoral components of the innate immune system, protect the surfaces of various host tissues by killing a broad range of microorganisms and are involved in immunomodulatory actions. The expression of these DEFB members changed during the estrous cycle and pregnancy in a stage-specific manner. The expression of DEFBs was also detected in conceptus and chorioallantoic tissues during pregnancy. DEFB1 and DEFB3 proteins and DEFB2 mRNA were localized primarily to endometrial epithelial cells during early pregnancy. Increasing doses of progesterone upregulated DEFB2 and EP2C expression in endometrial explant tissues. These results showed that members of the DEFB family were expressed stage-specifically at the maternal-conceptus interface in pigs, suggesting that the DEFB family plays important roles at the maternal-conceptus interface in regulation of innate immunity by protection of the maternal endometrial and conceptus tissues from pathogens to preserve fertility in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soohyung Lee
- Division of Biological Science and Technology, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26493, Republic of Korea
| | - Inkyu Yoo
- Division of Biological Science and Technology, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26493, Republic of Korea
| | - Yugyeong Cheon
- Division of Biological Science and Technology, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26493, Republic of Korea
| | - Minsun Hong
- Division of Biological Science and Technology, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26493, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Young Jeon
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26493, Republic of Korea
| | - Hakhyun Ka
- Division of Biological Science and Technology, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26493, Republic of Korea.
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25
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Mouse α-Defensins: Structural and Functional Analysis of the 17 Cryptdin Isoforms Identified from a Single Jejunal Crypt. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0036122. [PMID: 36472443 PMCID: PMC9872612 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00361-22] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mouse α-defensins, better known as cryptdins, are host protective antimicrobial peptides produced in the intestinal crypt by Paneth cells. To date, more than 20 cryptdin mRNAs have been identified from mouse small intestine, of which the first six cryptdins (Crp1 to Crp6) have been isolated and characterized at the peptide level. We quantified bactericidal activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus of the 17 cryptdin isoforms identified by Ouellette and colleagues from a single jejunal crypt (A. J. Ouellette et al., Infect Immun 62:5040-5047, 1994), along with linearized analogs of Crp1, Crp4, and Crp14. In addition, we analyzed the most potent and weakest cryptdins in the panel with respect to their ability to self-associate in solution. Finally, we solved, for the first time, the high-resolution crystal structure of a cryptdin, Crp14, and performed molecular dynamics simulation on Crp14 and a hypothetical mutant, T14K-Crp14. Our results indicate that mutational effects are highly dependent on cryptdin sequence, residue position, and bacterial strain. Crp14 adopts a disulfide-stabilized, three-stranded β-sheet core structure and forms a noncanonical dimer stabilized by asymmetrical interactions between the two β1 strands in parallel. The killing of E. coli by cryptdins is generally independent of their tertiary and quaternary structures that are important for the killing of S. aureus, which is indicative of two distinct mechanisms of action. Importantly, sequence variations impact the bactericidal activity of cryptdins by influencing their ability to self-associate in solution. This study expands our current understanding of how cryptdins function at the molecular level.
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26
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Leiba J, Özbilgiç R, Hernández L, Demou M, Lutfalla G, Yatime L, Nguyen-Chi M. Molecular Actors of Inflammation and Their Signaling Pathways: Mechanistic Insights from Zebrafish. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020153. [PMID: 36829432 PMCID: PMC9952950 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is a hallmark of the physiological response to aggressions. It is orchestrated by a plethora of molecules that detect the danger, signal intracellularly, and activate immune mechanisms to fight the threat. Understanding these processes at a level that allows to modulate their fate in a pathological context strongly relies on in vivo studies, as these can capture the complexity of the whole process and integrate the intricate interplay between the cellular and molecular actors of inflammation. Over the years, zebrafish has proven to be a well-recognized model to study immune responses linked to human physiopathology. We here provide a systematic review of the molecular effectors of inflammation known in this vertebrate and recapitulate their modes of action, as inferred from sterile or infection-based inflammatory models. We present a comprehensive analysis of their sequence, expression, and tissue distribution and summarize the tools that have been developed to study their function. We further highlight how these tools helped gain insights into the mechanisms of immune cell activation, induction, or resolution of inflammation, by uncovering downstream receptors and signaling pathways. These progresses pave the way for more refined models of inflammation, mimicking human diseases and enabling drug development using zebrafish models.
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27
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Kayongo A, Robertson NM, Siddharthan T, Ntayi ML, Ndawula JC, Sande OJ, Bagaya BS, Kirenga B, Mayanja-Kizza H, Joloba ML, Forslund SK. Airway microbiome-immune crosstalk in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1085551. [PMID: 36741369 PMCID: PMC9890194 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1085551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has significantly contributed to global mortality, with three million deaths reported annually. This impact is expected to increase over the next 40 years, with approximately 5 million people predicted to succumb to COPD-related deaths annually. Immune mechanisms driving disease progression have not been fully elucidated. Airway microbiota have been implicated. However, it is still unclear how changes in the airway microbiome drive persistent immune activation and consequent lung damage. Mechanisms mediating microbiome-immune crosstalk in the airways remain unclear. In this review, we examine how dysbiosis mediates airway inflammation in COPD. We give a detailed account of how airway commensal bacteria interact with the mucosal innate and adaptive immune system to regulate immune responses in healthy or diseased airways. Immune-phenotyping airway microbiota could advance COPD immunotherapeutics and identify key open questions that future research must address to further such translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Kayongo
- Makerere University Lung Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda,Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda,Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda,Department of Medicine, Center for Emerging Pathogens, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | | | - Trishul Siddharthan
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Moses Levi Ntayi
- Makerere University Lung Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda,Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda,Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Josephine Caren Ndawula
- Makerere University Lung Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Obondo J. Sande
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Bernard S. Bagaya
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Bruce Kirenga
- Makerere University Lung Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Harriet Mayanja-Kizza
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses L. Joloba
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sofia K. Forslund
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation of Charité - Universitatsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany,Charité-Universitatsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany,*Correspondence: Sofia K. Forslund,
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28
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Diclofenac Disrupts the Circadian Clock and through Complex Cross-Talks Aggravates Immune-Mediated Liver Injury-A Repeated Dose Study in Minipigs for 28 Days. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021445. [PMID: 36674967 PMCID: PMC9863319 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021445] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Diclofenac effectively reduces pain and inflammation; however, its use is associated with hepato- and nephrotoxicity. To delineate mechanisms of injury, we investigated a clinically relevant (3 mg/kg) and high-dose (15 mg/kg) in minipigs for 4 weeks. Initially, serum biochemistries and blood-smears indicated an inflammatory response but returned to normal after 4 weeks of treatment. Notwithstanding, histopathology revealed drug-induced hepatitis, marked glycogen depletion, necrosis and steatosis. Strikingly, the genomic study revealed diclofenac to desynchronize the liver clock with manifest inductions of its components CLOCK, NPAS2 and BMAL1. The > 4-fold induced CRY1 expression underscored an activated core-loop, and the dose dependent > 60% reduction in PER2mRNA repressed the negative feedback loop; however, it exacerbated hepatotoxicity. Bioinformatics enabled the construction of gene-regulatory networks, and we linked the disruption of the liver-clock to impaired glycogenesis, lipid metabolism and the control of immune responses, as shown by the 3-, 6- and 8-fold induced expression of pro-inflammatory CXCL2, lysozyme and ß-defensin. Additionally, diclofenac treatment caused adrenocortical hypertrophy and thymic atrophy, and we evidenced induced glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activity by immunohistochemistry. Given that REV-ERB connects the circadian clock with hepatic GR, its > 80% repression alleviated immune responses as manifested by repressed expressions of CXCL9(90%), CCL8(60%) and RSAD2(70%). Together, we propose a circuitry, whereby diclofenac desynchronizes the liver clock in the control of the hepatic metabolism and immune response.
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29
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Farag AGA, Shoeib MAA, labeeb AZ, Sleem AS, Khallaf HMA, Khalifa AS, Elshaib ME, Elnaidany NF, Hanout HMA. Human beta-defensin 1 circulating level and gene polymorphism in non-segmental vitiligo Egyptian patients. An Bras Dermatol 2023; 98:181-188. [PMID: 36535830 PMCID: PMC9984704 DOI: 10.1016/j.abd.2022.04.002] [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: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitiligo is an acquired depigmented skin disorder. It has a genetic and autoimmune background. Human beta defensin-1(HBD-1) plus its gene polymorphism were linked to some autoimmune disorders. OBJECTIVE To elucidate the possible role of HBD-1 in the pathogenesis of non-segmental vitiligo (NSV) through evaluation of HBD-1 serum levels and its single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in patients having NSV, in addition, to correlating the results with the extent of vitiligo in those patients. METHODS A current case-control study included 50 patients having NSV and 50 controls. The authors used Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) score to assess vitiligo severity and laboratory investigations to assess serum HBD-1 level using ELISA and defensin-beta1 (DEFB1) SNP using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). RESULTS There were significantly lower HBD-1 serum levels in NSV cases than in controls (p < 0.001). There was a significant predominance of GG DEFB1 genotype and G allele in NSV patients in comparison to controls (p < 0.001). The levels of serum HBD-1 and DEFB1 genotypes were not associated or correlated significantly with any of the personal and clinical parameters of vitiligo patients. STUDY LIMITATION The small sample size. CONCLUSIONS DEFB1 gene polymorphism (GG genotype and G allele) may modulate vitiligo risk and contribute to vitiligo development in Egyptian populations. Decreased circulating HBD-1 levels might have an active role in vitiligo etiopathogenesis that could be mediated through its possible anti-inflammatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azza Gaber Antar Farag
- Dermatology, Andrology and STDs Department, Faculty of Medicine Menoufia University, Shebin EL-koum, Egypt.
| | | | - Azza Zagloul labeeb
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine Menoufia University, Shebin EL-koum, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Shaaban Sleem
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine Menoufia University, Shebin EL-koum, Egypt
| | | | - Amany Salah Khalifa
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine Menoufia University, Shebin EL-koum, Egypt
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Zakhia R, Osta MA. CLIPA7 Exhibits Pleiotropic Roles in the Anopheles gambiae Immune Response. J Innate Immun 2022; 15:317-332. [PMID: 36423593 PMCID: PMC10643895 DOI: 10.1159/000526486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Clip domain serine proteases and clip domain serine protease homologs (cSPHs) are key components of serine protease cascades that drive the melanization response. Despite lacking catalytic activity, cSPHs play essential roles in regulating melanization, but the spectrum of functions they catalyze within and outside these cascades is not fully understood. Aside from their classical role as cofactors for PPO activation, we have previously revealed an unprecedented complexity in the function and molecular organization of these cSPHs in the immune response of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae. Here, we add yet another dimension to the complex roles underpinning the contributions of cSPHs to mosquito immunity by showing that CLIPA7, a member of the expanded cSPH family, defines a novel branch within the cSPH network that is essential for the melanization of Escherichia coli but not Plasmodium ookinetes or Gram-positive bacteria. Despite its dispensability for the melanization of Gram-positive bacteria, we show that CLIPA7 is required for the clearance of systemic infections with Staphylococcus aureus. CLIPA7 is produced by hemocytes and associates with the surfaces of live E. coli and S. aureus cells in vivo as well as with those of melanized cells. Based on its RNAi phenotypes and its unique domain architecture among A. gambiae cSPHs including the presence of an RGD motif, we propose that CLIPA7 exhibits pleiotropic roles in mosquito immunity that extend beyond the regulation of melanization to microbial clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mike A. Osta
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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31
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Tan ZX, Tao R, Li SC, Shen BZ, Meng LX, Zhu ZY. Role of defensins in diabetic wound healing. World J Diabetes 2022; 13:962-971. [PMID: 36437862 PMCID: PMC9693740 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v13.i11.962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The adverse consequences resulting from diabetes are often presented as severe complications. Diabetic wounds are one of the most commonly occurring complications in diabetes, and the control and treatment of this is costly. Due to a series of pathophysiological mechanisms, diabetic wounds remain in the inflammatory phase for a prolonged period of time, and face difficulty in entering the proliferative phase, thus leading to chronic non-healing wounds. The current consensus on the treatment of diabetic wounds is through multidisciplinary comprehensive management, however, standard wound treatment methods are still limited and therefore, more effective methods are required. In recent years, defensins have been found to play diverse roles in a variety of diseases; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying these activities are still largely unknown. Defensins can be constitutively or inductively produced in the skin, therefore, their local distribution is affected by the microenvironment of these diabetic wounds. Current evidence suggests that defensins are involved in the diabetic wound pathogenesis, and can potentially promote the early completion of each stage, thus making research on defensins a promising area for developing novel treatments for diabetic wounds. In this review, we describe the complex function of human defensins in the development of diabetic wounds, and suggest potential thera-peutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Xiang Tan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, Hubei Province, China
| | - Rui Tao
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, Hubei Province, China
| | - Si-Cheng Li
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, Hubei Province, China
| | - Bing-Zheng Shen
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lan-Xia Meng
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhan-Yong Zhu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, Hubei Province, China
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Ramírez Thomé S, Ávila Curiel B, Hernández Huerta MT, Solórzano Mata C. β-defensinas como posibles indicadores de la actividad inflamatoria en la enfermedad periodontal. INVESTIGACIÓN CLÍNICA 2022. [DOI: 10.54817/ic.v63n4a08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Periodontal disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) is an inflam-matory process caused by the activity of pathogenic bacteria and their products on the gingival sulcus, with the consequent activation of the immune response. Saliva and crevicular fluid contain a wide variety of enzymes and antimicrobial factors that are in contact with the supragingival and subgingival region, in-cluding β-defensins (hBDs). hHBDs are non-glycosylated, cysteine-rich cationic peptides produced by epithelial cells with antimicrobial and immunoregulatory effects, thus contributing to maintaining homeostasis in periodontal tissues. The changes in the microbiota and the immune response from a healthy peri-odontium to gingivitis and, finally, to periodontitis are complex. Their sever-ity depends on a dynamic balance between bacteria associated with plaque, genetic and environmental factors. Recent advances have made it possible to understand the implication of hBDs in the detection, diagnosis, and therapy of periodontal disease and the relationship between periodontitis and other inflammatory conditions. This review aims to describe the effect of hBDs on the immune response and its use as a possible marker of the inflammatory activity of the periodontal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saira Ramírez Thomé
- Facultad de Odontología. Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, México
| | | | | | - Carlos Solórzano Mata
- Facultad de Odontología. Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, México
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Adjei M, Yan Y, Li C, Pan C, Pan M, Wang P, Li K, Shahzad K, Chen X, Zhao W. Comparative transcriptome analysis in the caput segment of yak and cattleyak epididymis. Theriogenology 2022; 195:217-228. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Talapko J, Meštrović T, Juzbašić M, Tomas M, Erić S, Horvat Aleksijević L, Bekić S, Schwarz D, Matić S, Neuberg M, Škrlec I. Antimicrobial Peptides-Mechanisms of Action, Antimicrobial Effects and Clinical Applications. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11101417. [PMID: 36290075 PMCID: PMC9598582 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11101417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The growing emergence of antimicrobial resistance represents a global problem that not only influences healthcare systems but also has grave implications for political and economic processes. As the discovery of novel antimicrobial agents is lagging, one of the solutions is innovative therapeutic options that would expand our armamentarium against this hazard. Compounds of interest in many such studies are antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which actually represent the host's first line of defense against pathogens and are involved in innate immunity. They have a broad range of antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, fungi, and viruses, with specific mechanisms of action utilized by different AMPs. Coupled with a lower propensity for resistance development, it is becoming clear that AMPs can be seen as emerging and very promising candidates for more pervasive usage in the treatment of infectious diseases. However, their use in quotidian clinical practice is not without challenges. In this review, we aimed to summarize state-of-the-art evidence on the structure and mechanisms of action of AMPs, as well as to provide detailed information on their antimicrobial activity. We also aimed to present contemporary evidence of clinical trials and application of AMPs and highlight their use beyond infectious diseases and potential challenges that may arise with their increasing availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasminka Talapko
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Correspondence: (J.T.); (I.Š.)
| | - Tomislav Meštrović
- University Centre Varaždin, University North, 42000 Varaždin, Croatia
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave. NE, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Martina Juzbašić
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Matej Tomas
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Suzana Erić
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Lorena Horvat Aleksijević
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Sanja Bekić
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Family Medicine Practice, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Dragan Schwarz
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Suzana Matić
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Marijana Neuberg
- University Centre Varaždin, University North, 42000 Varaždin, Croatia
| | - Ivana Škrlec
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Correspondence: (J.T.); (I.Š.)
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Zhai YJ, Feng Y, Ma X, Ma F. Defensins: defenders of human reproductive health. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 29:126-154. [PMID: 36130055 PMCID: PMC9825273 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reproductive tract infection is an important factor leading to male and female infertility. Among female infertility factors, microbial and viral infections are the main factors affecting female reproductive health and causing tubal infertility, ectopic tubal pregnancy and premature delivery. Among male infertility factors, 13-15% of male infertility is related to infection. Defensins are cationic antibacterial and antiviral peptides, classified into α-defensins, β-defensins and θ-defensins. Humans only have α-defensins and β-defensins. Apart from their direct antimicrobial functions, defensins have an immunomodulatory function and are involved in many physiological processes. Studies have shown that defensins are widely distributed in the female reproductive tract (FRT) and male reproductive tract (MRT), playing a dual role of host defence and fertility protection. However, to our knowledge, the distribution, regulation and function of defensins in the reproductive tract and their relation to reproduction have not been reviewed. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review summarizes the expression, distribution and regulation of defensins in the reproductive tracts to reveal the updated research on the dual role of defensins in host defence and the protection of fertility. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed using the related keywords through April 2022. Related data from original researches and reviews were integrated to comprehensively review the current findings and understanding of defensins in the human reproductive system. Meanwhile, female and male transcriptome data in the GEO database were screened to analyze defensins in the human reproductive tracts. OUTCOMES Two transcriptome databases from the GEO database (GSE7307 and GSE150852) combined with existing researches reveal the expression levels and role of the defensins in the reproductive tracts. In the FRT, a high expression level of α-defensin is found, and the expression levels of defensins in the vulva and vagina are higher than those in other organs. The expression of defensins in the endometrium varies with menstrual cycle stages and with microbial invasion. Defensins also participate in the local immune response to regulate the risk of spontaneous preterm birth. In the MRT, a high expression level of β-defensins is also found. It is mainly highly expressed in the epididymal caput and corpus, indicating that defensins play an important role in sperm maturation. The expression of defensins in the MRT varies with androgen levels, age and the status of microbial invasion. They protect the male reproductive system from bacterial infections by neutralizing lipopolysaccharide and downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, animal and clinical studies have shown that defensins play an important role in sperm maturation, motility and fertilization. WIDER IMPLICATIONS As a broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptide without drug resistance, defensin has great potential for developing new natural antimicrobial treatments for reproductive tract infections. However, increasing evidence has shown that defensins can not only inhibit microbial invasion but can also promote the invasion and adhesion of some microorganisms in certain biological environments, such as human immunodeficiency virus. Therefore, the safety of defensins as reproductive tract anti-infective drugs needs more in-depth research. In addition, the modulatory role of defensins in fertility requires more in-depth research since the current conclusions are based on small-size samples. At present, scientists have made many attempts at the clinical transformation of defensins. However, defensins have problems such as poor stability, low bioavailability and difficulties in their synthesis. Therefore, the production of safe, effective and low-cost drugs remains a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xue Ma
- Correspondence address. Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7781-821X (F.M.); Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7650-6214 (X.M.)
| | - Fang Ma
- Correspondence address. Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7781-821X (F.M.); Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7650-6214 (X.M.)
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36
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Li G, Wang Q, Feng J, Wang J, Wang Y, Huang X, Shao T, Deng X, Cao Y, Zhou M, Zhao C. Recent insights into the role of defensins in diabetic wound healing. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113694. [PMID: 36099789 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic wound, one of the most common serious complications of diabetic patients, is an important factor in disability and death. Much of the research on the pathophysiology of diabetic wound healing has long focused on mechanisms mediated by hyperglycemia, chronic inflammation, microcirculatory and macrocirculatory dysfunction. However, recent evidence suggests that defensins may play a crucial role in the development and perpetuation of diabetic wound healing. The available findings suggest that defensins exert a beneficial influence on diabetic wound healing through antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, angiogenic, tissue regenerator effects, and insulin resistance improvement. Therefore, summarizing the existing research progress on defensins in the diabetic wound may present a promising strategy for diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gen Li
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China; Graduate School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qixue Wang
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China; Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine Sciences, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Graduate School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jiawei Feng
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China; Graduate School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jialin Wang
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China; Graduate School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China; Graduate School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaoting Huang
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China; Graduate School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Tengteng Shao
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China
| | - Xiaofei Deng
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China
| | - Yemin Cao
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China
| | - Mingmei Zhou
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China; Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine Sciences, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200082, China.
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Zeng F, Wang M, Li J, Li C, Pan X, Meng L, Li L, Wei H, Zhang S. Involvement of Porcine β-Defensin 129 in Sperm Capacitation and Rescue of Poor Sperm in Genital Tract Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169441. [PMID: 36012708 PMCID: PMC9409293 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, β-defensins have been reported to play pivotal roles in sperm protection and fertilization. However, the function and mechanism of porcine β-defensin 129 (pBD129) in the sperm remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that pBD129 is a glycosylated protein and broadly exists in accessory sex glands and coats the sperm surface. We inhibited the pBD129 protein on the sperm surface with an anti-pBD129 antibody and found that sperm motility was not significantly affected; however, sperm acrosome integrity and tyrosine phosphorylation levels increased significantly with time (p < 0.05) during capacitation. These changes were accompanied by an increase in sperm Ca2+ influx, resulting in a significantly reduced in vitro fertilization cleavage rate (p < 0.05). Further investigation revealed that treatment with recombinant pBD129 markedly restored the sperm motility in semen contaminated with Escherichia coli. The results suggest that pBD129 is not only associated with poor sperm motility after genital tract infection but can also protect the spermatozoa from premature capacitation, which may be beneficial for semen preservation.
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Balta MG, Schreurs O, Hansen TV, Tungen JE, Vik A, Glaab E, Küntziger TM, Schenck K, Baekkevold ES, Blix IJS. Expression and function of resolvin RvD1 n-3 DPA receptors in oral epithelial cells. Eur J Oral Sci 2022; 130:e12883. [PMID: 35808844 PMCID: PMC9544308 DOI: 10.1111/eos.12883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory responses can inflict permanent damage to host tissues. Specialized pro‐resolving mediators downregulate inflammation but also can have other functions. The aim of this study was to examine whether oral epithelial cells express the receptors FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32, which bind RvD1n‐3 DPA, a recently described pro‐resolving mediator derived from omega‐3 docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and whether RvD1n‐3 DPA exposure induced significant responses in these cells. Gingival biopsies were stained using antibodies to FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32. Expression of FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32 was examined in primary oral epithelial cells by qRT‐PCR, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence. The effect of RvD1n‐3 DPA on intracellular calcium mobilization and transcription of beta‐defensins 1 and 2, and cathelicidin was evaluated by qRT‐PCR. FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32 were expressed by gingival keratinocytes in situ. In cultured oral epithelial cells, FPR2/ALX was detected on the cell surface, whereas FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32 were detected intracellularly. Exposure to RvD1n‐3 DPA induced intracellular calcium mobilization, FPR2/ALX internalization, DRV1/GPR32 translocation to the nucleus, and significantly increased expression of genes coding for beta‐defensin 1, beta‐defensin 2, and cathelicidin. This shows that the signal constituted by RvD1n‐3 DPA is recognized by oral keratinocytes and that this can strengthen the antimicrobial and regulatory potential of the oral epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria G Balta
- Institute of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Olav Schreurs
- Institute of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trond V Hansen
- Department of Pharmacy, Section for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Jørn E Tungen
- Department of Pharmacy, Section for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Anders Vik
- Department of Pharmacy, Section for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Enrico Glaab
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Thomas M Küntziger
- Institute of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Karl Schenck
- Institute of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Espen S Baekkevold
- Institute of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Inger Johanne S Blix
- Institute of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Periodontology, Institute of Clinical Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Washburn RL, Hibler T, Kaur G, Dufour JM. Sertoli Cell Immune Regulation: A Double-Edged Sword. Front Immunol 2022; 13:913502. [PMID: 35757731 PMCID: PMC9218077 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.913502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The testis must create and maintain an immune privileged environment to protect maturing germ cells from autoimmune destruction. The establishment of this protective environment is due, at least in part, to Sertoli cells. Sertoli cells line the seminiferous tubules and form the blood-testis barrier (BTB), a barrier between advanced germ cells and the immune system. The BTB compartmentalizes the germ cells and facilitates the appropriate microenvironment necessary for spermatogenesis. Further, Sertoli cells modulate innate and adaptive immune processes through production of immunoregulatory compounds. Sertoli cells, when transplanted ectopically (outside the testis), can also protect transplanted tissue from the recipient’s immune system and reduce immune complications in autoimmune diseases primarily by immune regulation. These properties make Sertoli cells an attractive candidate for inflammatory disease treatments and cell-based therapies. Conversely, the same properties that protect the germ cells also allow the testis to act as a reservoir site for infections. Interestingly, Sertoli cells also have the ability to mount an antimicrobial response, if necessary, as in the case of infections. This review aims to explore how Sertoli cells act as a double-edged sword to both protect germ cells from an autoimmune response and activate innate and adaptive immune responses to fight off infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Washburn
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Immunology and Infectious Disease Concentration, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Taylor Hibler
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Immunology and Infectious Disease Concentration, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Gurvinder Kaur
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Department of Medical Education, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Immunology and Infectious Disease Concentration, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.,Department of Medical Education, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
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Ting DSJ, Mohammed I, Lakshminarayanan R, Beuerman RW, Dua HS. Host Defense Peptides at the Ocular Surface: Roles in Health and Major Diseases, and Therapeutic Potentials. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:835843. [PMID: 35783647 PMCID: PMC9243558 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.835843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sight is arguably the most important sense in human. Being constantly exposed to the environmental stress, irritants and pathogens, the ocular surface – a specialized functional and anatomical unit composed of tear film, conjunctival and corneal epithelium, lacrimal glands, meibomian glands, and nasolacrimal drainage apparatus – serves as a crucial front-line defense of the eye. Host defense peptides (HDPs), also known as antimicrobial peptides, are evolutionarily conserved molecular components of innate immunity that are found in all classes of life. Since the first discovery of lysozyme in 1922, a wide range of HDPs have been identified at the ocular surface. In addition to their antimicrobial activity, HDPs are increasingly recognized for their wide array of biological functions, including anti-biofilm, immunomodulation, wound healing, and anti-cancer properties. In this review, we provide an updated review on: (1) spectrum and expression of HDPs at the ocular surface; (2) participation of HDPs in ocular surface diseases/conditions such as infectious keratitis, conjunctivitis, dry eye disease, keratoconus, allergic eye disease, rosacea keratitis, and post-ocular surgery; (3) HDPs that are currently in the development pipeline for treatment of ocular diseases and infections; and (4) future potential of HDP-based clinical pharmacotherapy for ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren Shu Jeng Ting
- Academic Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- *Correspondence: Darren Shu Jeng Ting
| | - Imran Mohammed
- Academic Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Roger W. Beuerman
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Harminder S. Dua
- Academic Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Zhang K, Lian S, Shen X, Zhao X, Zhao W, Li C. Recombinant porcine beta defensin 2 alleviates inflammatory responses induced by Escherichia coli in IPEC-J2 cells. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 208:890-900. [PMID: 35364205 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.03.178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
pBD2 is one of the porcine beta defensins with broad antimicrobial activity, and plays an important role in immune regulation. However, the activities and mechanisms of pBD2 regulating host resistance to Escherichia coli infection are unclear. In this study, the immunomodulatory activity and mechanisms of recombinant pBD2 against Escherichia coli infection were explored in IPEC-J2 cells. Recombinant pBD2 had no obvious effect on the growth of cells below 80 μg/mL, however, it reduced the number of E. coli adhering to cells. Furthermore, pBD2 restored the abnormal expression of ZO-1 and occludin in cells challenged with E. coli. pBD2 treatment also reduced cell apoptosis and decreased the expression of the apoptosis-related genes Cox-2 and Caspase-3, and decreased the expression of the pro-inflammatory IL-6, IL-8, IL-1α and TNF-α, and Cxcl2 and Ccl20. pBD2 also reduced the expression of TAK1, and inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 following E. coli infection. In addition, pBD2 was localized in the cytoplasm. Collectively, pBD2 appeared to penetrate cells and alleviate inflammatory responses via the TAK1-NF-κB signaling pathway. Our results revealed the immunomodulatory activity of recombinant pBD2 against E. coli and provided insights into the molecular mechanisms that protected cells from E. coli infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 460045, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoqiang Lian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 460045, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyang Shen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 460045, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinhao Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 460045, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Weidong Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 460045, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunli Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 460045, Henan, People's Republic of China.
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Liu WT, Chen CC, Ji DD, Tu WC. The cecropin-prophenoloxidase regulatory mechanism is a cross-species physiological function in mosquitoes. iScience 2022; 25:104478. [PMID: 35712072 PMCID: PMC9194137 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
This study's aim was to investigate whether the cecropin-prophenoloxidase regulatory mechanism is a cross-species physiological function among mosquitoes. BLAST and phylogenetic analysis revealed that three mosquito cecropin Bs, namely Aedes albopictus cecropin B (Aalcec B), Armigeres subalbatus cecropin B2 (Ascec B2), and Culex quinquefasciatus cecropin B1 (Cqcec B1), play crucial roles in cuticle formation during pupal development via the regulation of prophenoloxidase 3 (PPO 3). The effects of cecropin B knockdown were rescued in a cross-species manner by injecting synthetic cecropin B peptide into pupae. Further investigations showed that these three cecropin B peptides bind to TTGG(A/C)A motifs within each of the PPO 3 DNA fragments obtained from these three mosquitoes. These results suggest that Aalcec B, Ascec B2, and Cqcec B1 each play an important role as a transcription factor in cuticle formation and that similar cecropin-prophenoloxidase regulatory mechanisms exist in multiple mosquito species. Cecropin B is able to regulate PPO 3 expression in the pupae Cecropin B binds to TTGG(A/C)A motifs within the PPO 3 DNA The knockdown of cecropin B was rescued by sequence-similar cecropin B peptides The cecropin B-prophenoloxidase 3 regulatory mechanism is conserved in mosquitoes
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Das S, Pradhan C, Pillai D. β-Defensin: An adroit saviour in teleosts. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 123:417-430. [PMID: 35331882 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
β-Defensin (BD) is an important first line innate defense molecule with potent antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities in fish. The signatures of β-defensins are the presence of a net cationic charge and three intramolecular disulfide bonds mediated by six conserved cysteines. It consists of three exons and two introns. The signal peptide is usually conserved and sequence divergence is mostly seen in mature peptide region. The diverse amino acid sequences of matured peptide contribute to a strong positive selection and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It is constitutively expressed in both mucosal as well as systemic sites. Increased expression of β-defensin was mostly reported in bacterial and viral infections in fish. Its role during parasitic and fungal infections is yet to be investigated. β-Defensin isoforms such as BD-1, BD-2, BD-3, BD-4 and BD-5 can be witnessed even in early developmental days to different pathogenic exposure in fish. β-Defensins possess adjuvant properties to enhance antigen-specific immunity promoting both cellular and humoral immune response. It significantly reduces/increases bacterial colonization or viral copy numbers when overexpressed/knockdown. Based on its chemotactic and activating potentials, it can contribute to both innate and adaptive immune responses. With mediated expression, it can also control inflammation. It is potent governing resistance in early developmental days as well. Its expression in pituitary and testis suggests its participation in reproduction and endocrine regulation in fish. Overall, β-defensins is an important member of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with multifunctional role in general homeostasis and to pathogen exposure possessing tremendous therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Das
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health & Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala, India.
| | - Chiranjiv Pradhan
- Department of Aquaculture, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Devika Pillai
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health & Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala, India
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Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have recently become widely publicized because they have the potential to function in alternative therapies as “natural” antibiotics, with their main advantage being a broad spectrum of activity. The potential for antimicrobial peptides to treat diabetes mellitus (DM) has been reported. In diabetes mellitus type I (T1D), cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP), cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) and mouse-β- defensin 14 (mBD14) are positively affected. Decreased levels of LL-37 and human neutrophil peptide 1-3 (HNP1-3) have been reported in diabetes mellitus type II (T2D) relative to healthy patients. Moreover, AMPs from amphibians and social wasps have antidiabetic effects. In infections occurring in patients with tuberculosis-diabetes or diabetic foot, granulysin, HNP1, HNP2, HNP3, human beta-defensin 2 (HBD2), and cathelicidins are responsible for pathogen clearance. An interesting alternative is also the use of modified M13 bacteriophages containing encapsulated AMPs genes or phagemids.
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Ying L, Wu H, Zhou S, Lu H, Ding M, Wang B, Wang S, Mao Y, Xiao F, Li Y. Toll-Like Receptors Signaling Pathway of Quercetin Regulating Avian Beta-Defensin in the Ileum of Broilers. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:816771. [PMID: 35281079 PMCID: PMC8906402 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.816771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the experiment was to investigate the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway of quercetin regulating avian beta-defensin (AvBD) in the ileum of Arbor Acre (AA) broilers. Four hundred and eighty one-day-old Arbor Acre broilers with similar body weight, half male and female, were randomly allotted to four treatments; the control treatment and three dietary treatments were fed with the basal diets supplemented with 0, 0.02%, 0.04, and 0.06% quercetin, respectively. The results showed that dietary quercetin supplementation did not significantly influence growth performance (p > 0.05), but significantly decreased the mortality rate of broilers by 85.74%, 85.74, and 71.28%, respectively (p < 0.05, F = 9.06). Compared with control, dietary supplementation with 0.04 and 0.06% quercetin significantly upregulated mRNA expression of total AvBD (p < 0.05), and there were no significant differences in the mRNA expression of AvBD1, AvBD2, and AvBD14 in three quercetin supplementation groups in the ileum of AA broilers (p > 0.05). Dietary supplementation with 0.02 and 0.06% quercetin significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of total Toll-like receptors (p < 0.05). Dietary quercetin supplementation significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of TLR1A, TLR1B, and TLR2A (p < 0.05); however, there were no significant differences in the mRNA expression of TLR2B, TLR5, and TLR15 (p > 0.05). Dietary quercetin supplementation significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88) and TIR domain-containing adaptor protein/MyD88-adaptor-like (TIRAP/MAL) (p < 0.05), 0.02% quercetin significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of tank-binding kinase1 (TBK1), IκB kinase complex-α (IKKα), IKKβ, IKKε, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), NF-κB inhibitor-alpha (IκBα), IκBα, IκBβ, TNF-receptor-associated factor 3 (TRAF3), and interferons regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) (p < 0.05), 0.04% quercetin significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of IKKβ, IKKε, NF-κB, IκBα, IκBβ, TRAF3, and TRAF6 (p < 0.05), and 0.06% quercetin significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of TBK1 and IKKα (p < 0.05). 0.02% quercetin significantly decreased the relative abundance of Escherichia, Staphylococcus (p < 0.05), and Salmonella (p < 0.01), 0.04% quercetin significantly decreased the relative abundance of Staphylococcus (p < 0.05), Escherichia, and Salmonella (p < 0.01), and 0.06% quercetin significantly decreased the relative abundance of Salmonella (p < 0.05) and Staphylococcus (p < 0.01) in the ileum of AA broilers. These findings suggested that dietary quercetin supplementation regulated the mRNA expression of AvBD, TLR, and the TLR signaling pathways and NF-κB signalling pathways, thereby maintaining the microecological balance of the intestinal tract and decreasing the mortality of broilers, and the optimum addition amount of quercetin is 0.04% under the test conditions.
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Seni-Silva AC, Maleski ALA, Souza MM, Falcao MAP, Disner GR, Lopes-Ferreira M, Lima C. Natterin-like depletion by CRISPR/Cas9 impairs zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryonic development. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:123. [PMID: 35151271 PMCID: PMC8840632 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08369-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Natterin protein family was first discovered in the venom of the medically significant fish Thalassophryne nattereri, and over the last decade natterin-like genes have been identified in various organisms, notably performing immune-related functions. Previous findings support natterin-like genes as effector defense molecules able to activate multiprotein complexes driving the host innate immune response, notably due to the pore-forming function of the aerolysin superfamily members. Herein, employing a combination of the CRISPR/Cas9 depletion system, phenotype-based screening, and morphometric methods, we evaluated the role of one family member, LOC795232, in the embryonic development of zebrafish since it might be implicated in multiple roles and characterization of the null mutant is central for analysis of gene activity. Results Multiple sequence alignment revealed that the candidate natterin-like has the highest similarity to zebrafish aep1, a putative and better characterized fish-specific defense molecule from the same family. Compared to other species, zebrafish have many natterin-like copies. Whole-mount in situ hybridization confirmed the knockout and mutant embryos exhibited epiboly delay, growth retardation, yolk sac and heart edema, absent or diminished swim bladder, spinal defects, small eyes and head, heart dysfunction, and behavioral impairment. As previously demonstrated, ribonucleoproteins composed of Cas9 and duplex guide RNAs are effective at inducing mutations in the F0 zebrafish. Conclusions The considerably high natterin-like copies in zebrafish compared to other species might be due to the teleost-specific whole genome duplication and followed by subfunctionalization or neofunctionalization. In the present work, we described some of the natterin-like features in the zebrafish development and infer that natterin-like proteins potentially contribute to the embryonary development and immune response. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08369-z. The Natterin family was discovered in the venom of the fish Thalassophryne nattereri. The zebrafish genome encodes eleven natterin-like genes. Natterin-like might be a novel fish-specific defense molecule. Natterin-like proteins are thought to be pore-forming molecules. Reverse genetic study and phenotypic characterization suggests natterin-like genes may have roles in zebrafish development.
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McGrath L, O'Keeffe J, Slattery O. Antimicrobial peptide gene expression in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) seven days post-challenge with Neoparamoeba perurans. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 127:104287. [PMID: 34619176 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Amoebic gill disease in teleost fish is caused by the marine parasite Neoparamoeba perurans. To date, the role of antimicrobial peptides β-defensins and cathelicidins in this infection have not been explored. Using a high-throughput microfluidics quantitative polymerase chain reaction system (Biomark HD™ by Fluidigm), this study aimed to: firstly, to investigate organ-specific expression of antimicrobial peptide genes β-defensin-1, -3 and -4 and cathelicidin 2 in healthy Atlantic salmon; secondly, to compare the expression of these antimicrobial peptide genes in healthy versus asymptomatic Atlantic salmon seven days post-challenge with Neoparamoeba perurans. Results from this study indicate expression of the β-defensin and cathelicidin genes in the selected organs from healthy Atlantic salmon. Furthermore, a statistically significant upregulation of β-defensins -3 and -4 and cathelicidin 2 was detected in gill of parasite-challenged salmon. The upregulated cathelicidin and β-defensin genes in gill could indicate novel potential roles in innate immune responses to Neoparamoeba perurans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leisha McGrath
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Rd., Galway, H91 T8NW, Ireland
| | - Joan O'Keeffe
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Rd., Galway, H91 T8NW, Ireland
| | - Orla Slattery
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Rd., Galway, H91 T8NW, Ireland.
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Warner JB, Larsen IS, Hardesty JE, Song YL, Warner DR, McClain CJ, Sun R, Deng Z, Jensen BAH, Kirpich IA. Human Beta Defensin 2 Ameliorated Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease in Mice. Front Physiol 2022; 12:812882. [PMID: 35153819 PMCID: PMC8829467 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.812882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a prevalent liver disorder and significant global healthcare burden with limited effective therapeutic options. The gut-liver axis is a critical factor contributing to susceptibility to liver injury due to alcohol consumption. In the current study, we tested whether human beta defensin-2 (hBD-2), a small anti-microbial peptide, attenuates experimental chronic ALD. Male C57Bl/6J mice were fed an ethanol (EtOH)-containing diet for 6 weeks with daily administration of hBD-2 (1.2 mg/kg) by oral gavage during the final week. Two independent cohorts of mice with distinct baseline gut microbiota were used. Oral hBD-2 administration attenuated liver injury in both cohorts as determined by decreased plasma ALT activity. Notably, the degree of hBD-2-mediated reduction of EtOH-associated liver steatosis, hepatocellular death, and inflammation was different between cohorts, suggesting microbiota-specific mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of hBD-2. Indeed, we observed differential mechanisms of hBD-2 between cohorts, which included an induction of hepatic and small intestinal IL-17A and IL-22, as well as an increase in T regulatory cell abundance in the gut and mesenteric lymph nodes. Lastly, hBD-2 modulated the gut microbiota composition in EtOH-fed mice in both cohorts, with significant decreases in multiple genera including Barnesiella, Parabacteroides, Akkermansia, and Alistipes, as well as altered abundance of several bacteria within the family Ruminococcaceae. Collectively, our results demonstrated a protective effect of hBD-2 in experimental ALD associated with immunomodulation and microbiota alteration. These data suggest that while the beneficial effects of hBD-2 on liver injury are uniform, the specific mechanisms of action are associated with baseline microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey B. Warner
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Ida S. Larsen
- Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec city, QC, Canada
| | - Josiah E. Hardesty
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Ying L. Song
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Dennis R. Warner
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Craig J. McClain
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
- University of Louisville Alcohol Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
- University of Louisville Hepatobiology and Toxicology Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
- Robley Rex Veterans Medical Center, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Rui Sun
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Zhongbin Deng
- University of Louisville Alcohol Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
- University of Louisville Hepatobiology and Toxicology Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
- Department of Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Benjamin A. H. Jensen
- Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec city, QC, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Irina A. Kirpich
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
- University of Louisville Alcohol Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
- University of Louisville Hepatobiology and Toxicology Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
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Kaur D, Patiyal S, Arora C, Singh R, Lodhi G, Raghava GPS. In-Silico Tool for Predicting, Scanning, and Designing Defensins. Front Immunol 2021; 12:780610. [PMID: 34880873 PMCID: PMC8645896 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.780610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Defensins are host defense peptides present in nearly all living species, which play a crucial role in innate immunity. These peptides provide protection to the host, either by killing microbes directly or indirectly by activating the immune system. In the era of antibiotic resistance, there is a need to develop a fast and accurate method for predicting defensins. In this study, a systematic attempt has been made to develop models for predicting defensins from available information on defensins. We created a dataset of defensins and non-defensins called the main dataset that contains 1,036 defensins and 1,035 AMPs (antimicrobial peptides, or non-defensins) to understand the difference between defensins and AMPs. Our analysis indicates that certain residues like Cys, Arg, and Tyr are more abundant in defensins in comparison to AMPs. We developed machine learning technique-based models on the main dataset using a wide range of peptide features. Our SVM (support vector machine)-based model discriminates defensins and AMPs with MCC of 0.88 and AUC of 0.98 on the validation set of the main dataset. In addition, we created an alternate dataset that consists of 1,036 defensins and 1,054 non-defensins obtained from Swiss-Prot. Models were also developed on the alternate dataset to predict defensins. Our SVM-based model achieved maximum MCC of 0.96 with AUC of 0.99 on the validation set of the alternate dataset. All models were trained, tested, and validated using standard protocols. Finally, we developed a web-based service "DefPred" to predict defensins, scan defensins in proteins, and design the best defensins from their analogs. The stand-alone software and web server of DefPred are available at https://webs.iiitd.edu.in/raghava/defpred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilraj Kaur
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Sumeet Patiyal
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Chakit Arora
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Ritesh Singh
- Department of Computer Science, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Gaurav Lodhi
- Department of Computer Science, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Gajendra P S Raghava
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, India
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Gao X, Ding J, Liao C, Xu J, Liu X, Lu W. Defensins: The natural peptide antibiotic. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 179:114008. [PMID: 34673132 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Defensins are a family of cationic antimicrobial peptides active against a broad range of infectious microbes including bacteria, viruses and fungi, playing important roles as innate effectors and immune modulators in immunological control of microbial infection. Their antibacterial properties and unique mechanisms of action have garnered considerable interest in developing defensins into a novel class of natural antibiotic peptides to fend off pathogenic infection by bacteria, particularly those resistant to conventional antibiotics. However, serious pharmacological and technical obstacles, some of which are unique to defensins and others are common to peptide drugs in general, have hindered the development and clinical translation of defensins as anti-infective therapeutics. To overcome them, several technologies have been developed, aiming for improved functionality, prolonged circulation time, enhanced proteolytic stability and bioavailability, and efficient and controlled delivery and release of defensins to the site of infection. Additional challenges include the alleviation of potential toxicity of defensins and their cost-effective manufacturing. In this review, we briefly introduce defensin biology, focus on various transforming strategies and practical techniques developed for defensins and their derivatives as antibacterial therapeutics, and conclude with a summation of future challenges and possible solutions.
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