1
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Porsch F, Binder CJ. Autoimmune diseases and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Nat Rev Cardiol 2024:10.1038/s41569-024-01045-7. [PMID: 38937626 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-024-01045-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are associated with a dramatically increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and its clinical manifestations. The increased risk is consistent with the notion that atherogenesis is modulated by both protective and disease-promoting immune mechanisms. Notably, traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as dyslipidaemia and hypertension alone do not explain the increased risk of cardiovascular disease associated with autoimmune diseases. Several mechanisms have been implicated in mediating the autoimmunity-associated cardiovascular risk, either directly or by modulating the effect of other risk factors in a complex interplay. Aberrant leukocyte function and pro-inflammatory cytokines are central to both disease entities, resulting in vascular dysfunction, impaired resolution of inflammation and promotion of chronic inflammation. Similarly, loss of tolerance to self-antigens and the generation of autoantibodies are key features of autoimmunity but are also implicated in the maladaptive inflammatory response during atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Therefore, immunomodulatory therapies are potential efficacious interventions to directly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and biomarkers of autoimmune disease activity could be relevant tools to stratify patients with autoimmunity according to their cardiovascular risk. In this Review, we discuss the pathophysiological aspects of the increased cardiovascular risk associated with autoimmunity and highlight the many open questions that need to be answered to develop novel therapies that specifically address this unmet clinical need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florentina Porsch
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph J Binder
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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2
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Xing Y, Lin X. Challenges and advances in the management of inflammation in atherosclerosis. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00253-4. [PMID: 38909884 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atherosclerosis, traditionally considered a lipid-related disease, is now understood as a chronic inflammatory condition with significant global health implications. OBJECTIVES This review aims to delve into the complex interactions among immune cells, cytokines, and the inflammatory cascade in atherosclerosis, shedding light on how these elements influence both the initiation and progression of the disease. METHODS This review draws on recent clinical research to elucidate the roles of key immune cells, macrophages, T cells, endothelial cells, and clonal hematopoiesis in atherosclerosis development. It focuses on how these cells and process contribute to disease initiation and progression, particularly through inflammation-driven processes that lead to plaque formation and stabilization. Macrophages ingest oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), which partially converts to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or accumulates as lipid droplets, forming foam cells crucial for plaque stability. Additionally, macrophages exhibit diverse phenotypes within plaques, with pro-inflammatory types predominating and others specializing in debris clearance at rupture sites. The involvement of CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells in these processes promotes inflammatory macrophage states, suppresses vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, and enhances plaque instability. RESULTS The nuanced roles of macrophages, T cells, and the related immune cells within the atherosclerotic microenvironment are explored, revealing insights into the cellular and molecular pathways that fuel inflammation. This review also addresses recent advancements in imaging and biomarker technology that enhance our understanding of disease progression. Moreover, it points out the limitations of current treatment and highlights the potential of emerging anti-inflammatory strategies, including clinical trials for agents such as p38MAPK, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and IL-1β, their preliminary outcomes, and the promising effects of canakinumab, colchicine, and IL-6R antagonists. CONCLUSION This review explores cutting-edge anti-inflammatory interventions, their potential efficacy in preventing and alleviating atherosclerosis, and the role of nanotechnology in delivering drugs more effectively and safely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Xing
- Cardiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei City, Anhui Province, 230022, China
| | - Xianhe Lin
- Cardiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei City, Anhui Province, 230022, China.
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3
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Atehortua L, Sean Davidson W, Chougnet CA. Interactions Between HDL and CD4+ T Cells: A Novel Understanding of HDL Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2024; 44:1191-1201. [PMID: 38660807 PMCID: PMC11111342 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.124.320851] [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] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Several studies in animal models and human cohorts have recently suggested that HDLs (high-density lipoproteins) not only modulate innate immune responses but also adaptative immune responses, particularly CD4+ T cells. CD4+ T cells are central effectors and regulators of the adaptive immune system, and any alterations in their homeostasis contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, autoimmunity, and inflammatory diseases. In this review, we focus on how HDLs and their components affect CD4+ T-cell homeostasis by modulating cholesterol efflux, immune synapsis, proliferation, differentiation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. While the effects of apoB-containing lipoproteins on T cells have been relatively well established, this review focuses specifically on new connections between HDL and CD4+ T cells. We present a model where HDL may modulate T cells through both direct and indirect mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Atehortua
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Research Foundation, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - W. Sean Davidson
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Claire A. Chougnet
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Research Foundation, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
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4
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Xu L, Chen F, Fan W, Saito S, Cao D. The role of γδT lymphocytes in atherosclerosis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1369202. [PMID: 38774876 PMCID: PMC11106432 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1369202] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis poses a significant threat to human health, impacting overall well-being and imposing substantial financial burdens. Current treatment strategies mainly focus on managing low-density lipids (LDL) and optimizing liver functions. However, it's crucial to recognize that Atherosclerosis involves more than just lipid accumulation; it entails a complex interplay of immune responses. Research highlights the pivotal role of lipid-laden macrophages in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. These macrophages attract lymphocytes like CD4 and CD8 to the inflamed site, potentially intensifying the inflammatory response. γδ T lymphocytes, with their diverse functions in innate and adaptive immune responses, pathogen defense, antigen presentation, and inflammation regulation, have been implicated in the early stages of Atherosclerosis. However, our understanding of the roles of γδ T cells in Atherosclerosis remains limited. This mini-review aims to shed light on the characteristics and functions of γδ T cells in Atherosclerosis. By gaining insights into the roles of γδ T cells, we may uncover a promising strategy to mitigate plaque buildup and dampen the inflammatory response, thereby opening new avenues for effectively managing this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- LiMin Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Entry-Exit Frontier Inspection Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fanfan Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Fan
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Suguru Saito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - DuoYao Cao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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5
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He C, Kim HI, Park J, Guo J, Huang W. The role of immune cells in different stages of atherosclerosis. Int J Med Sci 2024; 21:1129-1143. [PMID: 38774746 PMCID: PMC11103388 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.94570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the accumulation of immune cells in the intima of arteries. Experimental and clinical evidence shows that both innate and adaptive immunity orchestrate the progression of atherosclerosis. The heterogeneous nature of immune cells within atherosclerosis lesions is important. Studies utilizing high-dimensional mass spectrometry and single-cell RNA sequencing of leukocytes from atherosclerotic lesions show the diversity and adaptability of these immune cell subtypes. Their migration, compositional changes, phenotypic alterations, and adaptive responses are key features throughout atherosclerosis progression. Understanding how these immune cells and their subtypes affect atherogenesis would help to develop novel therapeutic approaches that control atherosclerosis progression. Precise targeting of specific immune system components involved in atherosclerosis, rather than broad suppression of the immune system with anti-inflammatory agents, can more accurately regulate the progress of atherosclerosis with fewer side effects. In this review, we cover the most recent advances in the field of atherosclerosis to understand the role of various immune cells on its development. We focus on the complex network of immune cells and the interaction between the innate immune system and adaptive immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong He
- Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University-Daqing, Daqing 163319, PR China
| | - Hyo In Kim
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Jinbong Park
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Junli Guo
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Tropical Cardiovascular Diseases Research of Hainan Province, School of Public Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, PR China
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Tropical Cardiovascular Diseases Research of Hainan Province, School of Public Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, PR China
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6
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Stroope C, Nettersheim FS, Coon B, Finney AC, Schwartz MA, Ley K, Rom O, Yurdagul A. Dysregulated cellular metabolism in atherosclerosis: mediators and therapeutic opportunities. Nat Metab 2024; 6:617-638. [PMID: 38532071 PMCID: PMC11055680 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-024-01015-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence over the past decades has revealed an intricate relationship between dysregulation of cellular metabolism and the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, an integrated understanding of dysregulated cellular metabolism in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and its potential value as a therapeutic target is missing. In this Review, we (1) summarize recent advances concerning the role of metabolic dysregulation during atherosclerosis progression in lesional cells, including endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, macrophages and T cells; (2) explore the complexity of metabolic cross-talk between these lesional cells; (3) highlight emerging technologies that promise to illuminate unknown aspects of metabolism in atherosclerosis; and (4) suggest strategies for targeting these underexplored metabolic alterations to mitigate atherosclerosis progression and stabilize rupture-prone atheromas with a potential new generation of cardiovascular therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad Stroope
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Felix Sebastian Nettersheim
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Brian Coon
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Cardiovascular Biology Research Program, OMRF, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Alexandra C Finney
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Martin A Schwartz
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Departments of Cell Biology and Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Klaus Ley
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Immunology Center of Georgia (IMMCG), Augusta University Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Oren Rom
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Arif Yurdagul
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA.
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7
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Zhang YS, Chen YQ. Dysfunctional regulatory T cell: May be an obstacle to immunotherapy in cardiovascular diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116359. [PMID: 38430633 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116359] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory responses are linked to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in various forms. Tregs, members of CD4+ T cells, play important roles in regulating immune system and suppressing inflammatory response, thus contributing to maintaining immune homeostasis. However, Tregs exert their powerful suppressive function relying on the stable phenotype and function. The stability of Tregs primarily depends on the FOXP3 (Forkhead box P3) expression and epigenetic regulation. Although Tregs are quite stable under physiological conditions, prolonged exposure to inflammatory cues, Tregs may lose suppressive function and require proinflammatory phenotype, namely plastic Tregs or ex-Tregs. There are extensive researches have established the beneficial role of Tregs in CVDs. Nevertheless, the potential risks of dysfunctional Tregs lack deep research. Anti-inflammatory and immunological modulation have been hotspots in the treatment of CVDs. Tregs are appealing because of their crucial role in resolving inflammation and promoting tissue repair. If alleviating inflammatory response through modulating Tregs could be a new therapeutic strategy for CVDs, the next step to consider is how to prevent the formation of dysfunctional Tregs or reverse detrimental Tregs to normal phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Sha Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan, China
| | - Ya-Qin Chen
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan, China.
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8
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Lin Y, Liu S, Sun Y, Chen C, Yang S, Pei G, Lin M, Yu J, Liu X, Wang H, Long J, Yan Q, Liang J, Yao J, Yi F, Meng L, Tan Y, Chen N, Yang Y, Ai Q. CCR5 and inflammatory storm. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 96:102286. [PMID: 38561044 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102286] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Chemokines and their corresponding receptors play crucial roles in orchestrating inflammatory and immune responses, particularly in the context of pathological conditions disrupting the internal environment. Among these receptors, CCR5 has garnered considerable attention due to its significant involvement in the inflammatory cascade, serving as a pivotal mediator of neuroinflammation and other inflammatory pathways associated with various diseases. However, a notable gap persists in comprehending the intricate mechanisms governing the interplay between CCR5 and its ligands across diverse and intricate inflammatory pathologies. Further exploration is warranted, especially concerning the inflammatory cascade instigated by immune cell infiltration and the precise binding sites within signaling pathways. This study aims to illuminate the regulatory axes modulating signaling pathways in inflammatory cells by providing a comprehensive overview of the pathogenic processes associated with CCR5 and its ligands across various disorders. The primary focus lies on investigating the pathomechanisms associated with CCR5 in disorders related to neuroinflammation, alongside the potential impact of aging on these processes and therapeutic interventions. The discourse culminates in addressing current challenges and envisaging potential future applications, advocating for innovative research endeavors to advance our comprehension of this realm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Lin
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Shasha Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Changsha Hospital for Matemal&Child Health Care Affiliated to Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410007, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Songwei Yang
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Gang Pei
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Meiyu Lin
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Jingbo Yu
- Technology Innovation Center/National Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Chinese Medicine Powders and Innovative Drugs, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Xuan Liu
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Huiqin Wang
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Junpeng Long
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Qian Yan
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Jinping Liang
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Jiao Yao
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Fan Yi
- Key Laboratory of Cosmetic, China National Light Industry, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Lei Meng
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Yong Tan
- Nephrology Department, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan 411100, China
| | - Naihong Chen
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China; State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Yantao Yang
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China.
| | - Qidi Ai
- Hunan Engineering Technology Center of Standardization and Function of Chinese Herbal Decoction Pieces, College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China.
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9
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Khan A, Roy P, Ley K. Breaking tolerance: the autoimmune aspect of atherosclerosis. Nat Rev Immunol 2024:10.1038/s41577-024-01010-y. [PMID: 38472321 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-01010-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial walls and is characterized by the accumulation of lipoproteins that are insufficiently cleared by phagocytes. Following the initiation of atherosclerosis, the pathological progression is accelerated by engagement of the adaptive immune system. Atherosclerosis triggers the breakdown of tolerance to self-components. This loss of tolerance is reflected in defective expression of immune checkpoint molecules, dysfunctional antigen presentation, and aberrations in T cell populations - most notably in regulatory T (Treg) cells - and in the production of autoantibodies. The breakdown of tolerance to self-proteins that is observed in ASCVD may be linked to the conversion of Treg cells to 'exTreg' cells because many Treg cells in ASCVD express T cell receptors that are specific for self-epitopes. Alternatively, or in addition, breakdown of tolerance may trigger the activation of naive T cells, resulting in the clonal expansion of T cell populations with pro-inflammatory and cytotoxic effector phenotypes. In this Perspective, we review the evidence that atherosclerosis is associated with a breakdown of tolerance to self-antigens, discuss possible immunological mechanisms and identify knowledge gaps to map out future research. Rational approaches aimed at re-establishing immune tolerance may become game changers in treating ASCVD and in preventing its downstream sequelae, which include heart attacks and strokes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Khan
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Payel Roy
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Klaus Ley
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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10
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Callahan D, Smita S, Joachim S, Hoehn K, Kleinstein S, Weisel F, Chikina M, Shlomchik M. Memory B cell subsets have divergent developmental origins that are coupled to distinct imprinted epigenetic states. Nat Immunol 2024; 25:562-575. [PMID: 38200277 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01721-9] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Memory B cells (MBCs) are phenotypically and functionally diverse, but their developmental origins remain undefined. Murine MBCs can be divided into subsets by expression of CD80 and PD-L2. Upon re-immunization, CD80/PD-L2 double-negative (DN) MBCs spawn germinal center B cells (GCBCs), whereas CD80/PD-L2 double-positive (DP) MBCs generate plasmablasts but not GCBCs. Using multiple approaches, including generation of an inducible GCBC-lineage reporter mouse, we demonstrate in a T cell-dependent response that DN cells formed independently of the germinal center (GC), whereas DP cells exhibited either extrafollicular (DPEX) or GCBC (DPGC) origins. Chromatin and transcriptional profiling revealed similarity of DN cells with an early memory precursor. Reciprocally, GCBC-derived DP cells shared distinct genomic features with GCBCs, while DPEX cells had hybrid features. Upon restimulation, DPEX cells were more prone to divide, while DPGC cells differentiated toward IgG1+ plasmablasts. Thus, MBC functional diversity is generated through distinct developmental histories, which imprint characteristic epigenetic patterns onto their progeny, thereby programming them for divergent functional responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derrick Callahan
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Shuchi Smita
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stephen Joachim
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kenneth Hoehn
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Steven Kleinstein
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Florian Weisel
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Maria Chikina
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mark Shlomchik
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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11
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Zhang T, Pang C, Xu M, Zhao Q, Hu Z, Jiang X, Guo M. The role of immune system in atherosclerosis: Molecular mechanisms, controversies, and future possibilities. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110765. [PMID: 38369442 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110765] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Numerous cardiovascular disorders have atherosclerosis as their pathological underpinning. Numerous studies have demonstrated that, with the aid of pattern recognition receptors, cytokines, and immunoglobulins, innate immunity, represented by monocytes/macrophages, and adaptive immunity, primarily T/B cells, play a critical role in controlling inflammation and abnormal lipid metabolism in atherosclerosis. Additionally, the finding of numerous complement components in atherosclerotic plaques suggests yet again how heavily the immune system controls atherosclerosis. Therefore, it is essential to have a thorough grasp of how the immune system contributes to atherosclerosis. The specific molecular mechanisms involved in the activation of immune cells and immune molecules in atherosclerosis, the controversy surrounding some immune cells in atherosclerosis, and the limitations of extrapolating from relevant animal models to humans were all carefully reviewed in this review from the three perspectives of innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and complement system. This could provide fresh possibilities for atherosclerosis research and treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianle Zhang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Chenxu Pang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Mengxin Xu
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Qianqian Zhao
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Zhijie Hu
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Xijuan Jiang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Maojuan Guo
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China.
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12
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Britsch S, Langer H, Duerschmied D, Becher T. The Evolving Role of Dendritic Cells in Atherosclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2450. [PMID: 38397127 PMCID: PMC10888834 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042450] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, is characterized by chronic inflammation of the arterial wall. This inflammatory process is initiated and maintained by both innate and adaptive immunity. Dendritic cells (DCs), which are antigen-presenting cells, play a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis and consist of various subtypes with distinct functional abilities. Following the recognition and binding of antigens, DCs become potent activators of cellular responses, bridging the innate and adaptive immune systems. The modulation of specific DC subpopulations can have either pro-atherogenic or atheroprotective effects, highlighting the dual pro-inflammatory or tolerogenic roles of DCs. In this work, we provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving roles of DCs and their subtypes in the promotion or limitation of atherosclerosis development. Additionally, we explore antigen pulsing and pharmacological approaches to modulate the function of DCs in the context of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Britsch
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, Haemostaseology and Medical Intensive Care, Centre for Acute Cardiovascular Medicine Mannheim (ZKAM), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 69117 Mannheim, Germany; (H.L.); (D.D.); (T.B.)
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 13092 Mannheim, Germany
- European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Harald Langer
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, Haemostaseology and Medical Intensive Care, Centre for Acute Cardiovascular Medicine Mannheim (ZKAM), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 69117 Mannheim, Germany; (H.L.); (D.D.); (T.B.)
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 13092 Mannheim, Germany
- European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Daniel Duerschmied
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, Haemostaseology and Medical Intensive Care, Centre for Acute Cardiovascular Medicine Mannheim (ZKAM), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 69117 Mannheim, Germany; (H.L.); (D.D.); (T.B.)
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 13092 Mannheim, Germany
- European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Tobias Becher
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, Haemostaseology and Medical Intensive Care, Centre for Acute Cardiovascular Medicine Mannheim (ZKAM), University Medical Centre Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 69117 Mannheim, Germany; (H.L.); (D.D.); (T.B.)
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Döring Y, van der Vorst EP, Yan Y, Neideck C, Blanchet X, Jansen Y, Kemmerich M, Bayasgalan S, Peters LJ, Hristov M, Bidzhekov K, Yin C, Zhang X, Leberzammer J, Li Y, Park I, Kral M, Nitz K, Parma L, Gencer S, Habenicht A, Faussner A, Teupser D, Monaco C, Holdt L, Megens RT, Atzler D, Santovito D, von Hundelshausen P, Weber C. Identification of a non-canonical chemokine-receptor pathway suppressing regulatory T cells to drive atherosclerosis. NATURE CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH 2024; 3:221-242. [PMID: 39044999 PMCID: PMC7616283 DOI: 10.1038/s44161-023-00413-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
CCL17 is produced by conventional dendritic cells (cDCs), signals through CCR4 on regulatory T cells (Tregs), and drives atherosclerosis by suppressing Treg functions through yet undefined mechanisms. Here we show that cDCs from CCL17-deficient mice display a pro-tolerogenic phenotype and transcriptome that is not phenocopied in mice lacking its cognate receptor CCR4. In the plasma of CCL17-deficient mice, CCL3 was the only decreased cytokine/chemokine. We found that CCL17 signaled through CCR8 as an alternate high-affinity receptor, which induced CCL3 expression and suppressed Treg functions in the absence of CCR4. Genetic ablation of CCL3 and CCR8 in CD4+ T cells reduced CCL3 secretion, boosted FoxP3+ Treg numbers, and limited atherosclerosis. Conversely, CCL3 administration exacerbated atherosclerosis and restrained Treg differentiation. In symptomatic versus asymptomatic human carotid atheroma, CCL3 expression was increased, while FoxP3 expression was reduced. Together, we identified a non-canonical chemokine pathway whereby CCL17 interacts with CCR8 to yield a CCL3-dependent suppression of atheroprotective Tregs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Döring
- Division of Angiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Emiel P.C. van der Vorst
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research (IZKF), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Institute for Molecular Cardiovascular Research (IMCAR), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pathology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Yi Yan
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute and Shanghai Institute of Pediatric Congenital Heart Disease, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Carlos Neideck
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Xavier Blanchet
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Yvonne Jansen
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Manuela Kemmerich
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Linsey J.F. Peters
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research (IZKF), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Institute for Molecular Cardiovascular Research (IMCAR), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pathology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Hristov
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kiril Bidzhekov
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Changjun Yin
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Xi Zhang
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Julian Leberzammer
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Ya Li
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Inhye Park
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Kral
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Katrin Nitz
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Laura Parma
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Selin Gencer
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Habenicht
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Faussner
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel Teupser
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Monaco
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Lesca Holdt
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Remco T.A. Megens
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, the Netherlands
| | - Dorothee Atzler
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, LMU Munich
| | - Donato Santovito
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research (IRGB), Unit of Milan, National Research Council, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Christian Weber
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, the Netherlands
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Chan A, Torelli S, Cheng E, Batchelder R, Waliany S, Neal J, Witteles R, Nguyen P, Cheng P, Zhu H. Immunotherapy-Associated Atherosclerosis: A Comprehensive Review of Recent Findings and Implications for Future Research. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2023; 25:715-735. [PMID: 38213548 PMCID: PMC10776491 DOI: 10.1007/s11936-023-01024-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Purpose of the Review Even as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed the lifespan of many patients, they may also trigger acceleration of long-term cardiovascular disease. Our review aims to examine the current landscape of research on ICI-mediated atherosclerosis and address key questions regarding its pathogenesis and impact on patient management. Recent Findings Preclinical mouse models suggest that T cell dysregulation and proatherogenic cytokine production are key contributors to plaque development after checkpoint inhibition. Clinical data also highlight the significant burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in patients on immunotherapy, although the value of proactively preventing and treating ASCVD in this population remains an open area of inquiry. Current treatment options include dietary/lifestyle modification and traditional medications to manage hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes risk factors; no current targeted therapies exist. Summary Early identification of high-risk patients is crucial for effective preventive strategies and timely intervention. Future research should focus on refining screening tools, elucidating targetable mechanisms driving ICI atherosclerosis, and evaluating long-term cardiovascular outcomes in cancer survivors who received immunotherapy. Moreover, close collaboration between oncologists and cardiologists is essential to optimize patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Chan
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Stefan Torelli
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Evaline Cheng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Ryan Batchelder
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Sarah Waliany
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Joel Neal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Ronald Witteles
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Patricia Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute and Department of Medicine, Stanford University, 240 Pasteur Drive, Rm 3500, Biomedical Innovations Building, Stanford, CA 94304 USA
| | - Paul Cheng
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute and Department of Medicine, Stanford University, 240 Pasteur Drive, Rm 3500, Biomedical Innovations Building, Stanford, CA 94304 USA
| | - Han Zhu
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute and Department of Medicine, Stanford University, 240 Pasteur Drive, Rm 3500, Biomedical Innovations Building, Stanford, CA 94304 USA
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15
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Decano JL, Maiorino E, Matamalas JT, Chelvanambi S, Tiemeijer BM, Yanagihara Y, Mukai S, Jha PK, Pestana DV, D’Souza E, Whelan M, Ge R, Asano T, Sharma A, Libby P, Singh SA, Aikawa E, Aikawa M. Cellular Heterogeneity of Activated Primary Human Macrophages and Associated Drug-Gene Networks: From Biology to Precision Therapeutics. Circulation 2023; 148:1459-1478. [PMID: 37850387 PMCID: PMC10624416 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.064794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interferon-γ (IFNγ) signaling plays a complex role in atherogenesis. IFNγ stimulation of macrophages permits in vitro exploration of proinflammatory mechanisms and the development of novel immune therapies. We hypothesized that the study of macrophage subpopulations could lead to anti-inflammatory interventions. METHODS Primary human macrophages activated by IFNγ (M(IFNγ)) underwent analyses by single-cell RNA sequencing, time-course cell-cluster proteomics, metabolite consumption, immunoassays, and functional tests (phagocytic, efferocytotic, and chemotactic). RNA-sequencing data were analyzed in LINCS (Library of Integrated Network-Based Cellular Signatures) to identify compounds targeting M(IFNγ) subpopulations. The effect of compound BI-2536 was tested in human macrophages in vitro and in a murine model of atherosclerosis. RESULTS Single-cell RNA sequencing identified 2 major clusters in M(IFNγ): inflammatory (M(IFNγ)i) and phagocytic (M(IFNγ)p). M(IFNγ)i had elevated expression of inflammatory chemokines and higher amino acid consumption compared with M(IFNγ)p. M(IFNγ)p were more phagocytotic and chemotactic with higher Krebs cycle activity and less glycolysis than M(IFNγ)i. Human carotid atherosclerotic plaques contained 2 such macrophage clusters. Bioinformatic LINCS analysis using our RNA-sequencing data identified BI-2536 as a potential compound to decrease the M(IFNγ)i subpopulation. BI-2536 in vitro decreased inflammatory chemokine expression and secretion in M(IFNγ) by shrinking the M(IFNγ)i subpopulation while expanding the M(IFNγ)p subpopulation. BI-2536 in vivo shifted the phenotype of macrophages, modulated inflammation, and decreased atherosclerosis and calcification. CONCLUSIONS We characterized 2 clusters of macrophages in atherosclerosis and combined our cellular data with a cell-signature drug library to identify a novel compound that targets a subset of macrophages in atherosclerosis. Our approach is a precision medicine strategy to identify new drugs that target atherosclerosis and other inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius L. Decano
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Enrico Maiorino
- Channing Division of Network Medicine (E.M., A.S., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Joan T. Matamalas
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sarvesh Chelvanambi
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Bart M. Tiemeijer
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Yoshihiro Yanagihara
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Shin Mukai
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Prabhash Kumar Jha
- Department of Medicine, and Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology (P.K.J., P.L., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Diego V.S. Pestana
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Edwin D’Souza
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Mary Whelan
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Rile Ge
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Takaharu Asano
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Amitabh Sharma
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine (E.M., A.S., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Peter Libby
- Department of Medicine, and Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology (P.K.J., P.L., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sasha A. Singh
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Elena Aikawa
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, and Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology (P.K.J., P.L., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Masanori Aikawa
- Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Division (J.L.D., J.T.M., S.C., B.M.T., Y.Y., S.M., D.V.S.P., E.D., M.W., R.G., T.A., A.S., S.A.S., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine (E.M., A.S., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, and Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology (P.K.J., P.L., E.A., M.A.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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16
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Appleton BD, Palmer SA, Smith HP, Stephens LE, Major AS. Oxidized Phospholipid oxPAPC Alters Regulatory T-Cell Differentiation and Decreases Their Protective Function in Atherosclerosis in Mice. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:2119-2132. [PMID: 37675632 PMCID: PMC10720352 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.319674] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are protective in atherosclerosis but reduced during disease progression due to cell death and loss of stability. However, the mechanisms of Treg dysfunction remain unknown. Oxidized phospholipids are abundant in atherosclerosis and can activate innate immune cells, but little is known regarding their impact on T cells. Given Treg loss during atherosclerosis progression and oxidized phospholipid levels in the plaque microenvironment, we investigated whether oxidized 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (oxPAPC), an oxidized phospholipid associated with atherosclerotic plaques, alters Treg differentiation and function. METHODS CD4+ T cells were polarized to Treg, T helper (Th) 1, and Th17 cells with or without oxPAPC and assessed by flow cytometry. Gene expression in oxPAPC-treated Tregs was analyzed by bulk RNA sequencing. Functional studies of oxPAPC-induced Tregs were performed by coculturing Tregs with CellTrace Violet-labeled cells in vitro, and by adoptively transferring Tregs to hyperlipidemic Ldlr-/- mice to measure atherosclerosis progression. RESULTS Compared with controls, oxPAPC-treated Tregs were less viable, but surviving cells expressed higher levels of the Th1-associated markers T-bet, CXCR3, and IFN (interferon)-γ. Th1 and Th17 skewing cultures were unaltered by oxPAPC. IFN-γ is linked to Treg instability, thus Treg polarization experiments were repeated using Ifngr1-/- CD4+ T cells. IFNγR1 (INF gamma receptor 1) deficiency did not improve cell viability in oxPAPC-treated Tregs; however, T-bet and IFN-γ expression was not increased in surviving cells suggesting a role for IFN-γsignaling. OxPAPC-treated Tregs were less suppressive in vitro, and adoptive transfer studies in hyperlipidemic Ldlr-/- mice showed that oxPAPC-induced Tregs possessed altered tissue homing and were insufficient to inhibit atherosclerosis progression. CONCLUSIONS OxPAPC elicits Treg-specific changes altering Treg differentiation and inducing a Th1-like phenotype in surviving cells partially through IFN-γ signaling. This is biologically relevant as oxPAPC-treated Tregs do not reduce atherosclerosis progression in Ldlr-/- mice. This study supports the role of oxidized phospholipids in negatively impacting Treg differentiation and atheroprotective function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenna D. Appleton
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University
| | | | | | | | - Amy S. Major
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Tennessee Valley Health System, Department of Veterans Affairs
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17
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Sun L, Zhou H, Wu C, Peng Y. Molecular markers that predict response to combined radiotherapy and immunotherapy in patients with lung adenocarcinoma: a bioinformatics analysis. Transl Cancer Res 2023; 12:2646-2659. [PMID: 37969379 PMCID: PMC10643968 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-23-968] [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: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Background Immunotherapy has had a high success rate in treating lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) for several decades. However, many patients do not benefit from immunotherapy alone. Recent studies revealed that a combination of immunotherapy and radiotherapy (RT) stimulates a good systemic immune response to LUAD. However, clinical and experimental evidence suggest that RT may give rise to primary immunodeficiency, facilitating tumor immunity escape. Little is known about the molecular mechanisms whereby RT and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) influence tumor immunogenicity and the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with LUAD. Methods We investigated molecular markers that predict response to combination of immunotherapy and SBRT in the treatment of LUAD using bioinformatics. Results SBRT significantly upregulated the expression of PTPRC, LILRB2, TLR8, CCR5, and PLEK and significantly downregulated the expression of CXCL13, CD19, and LTA. Among these genes, the expression of PTPRC, TLR8, and CCR5 was associated with responsiveness to immunotherapy after SBRT. However, only TLR8 and CCR5 expression were associated with an improved prognosis. Further analysis revealed that TLR8 and CCR5 expression increased responsiveness to immunotherapy by promoting M0 macrophage and memory B cell infiltration of LUAD tissues. Conclusions In patients with LUAD, TLR8 and CCR5 expression are potential markers of a favorable response to combined immunotherapy and RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haiting Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Wu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Peng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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18
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Ou Q, Power R, Griffin MD. Revisiting regulatory T cells as modulators of innate immune response and inflammatory diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1287465. [PMID: 37928540 PMCID: PMC10623442 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1287465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) are known to be critical for the maintenance of immune homeostasis by suppressing the activation of auto- or allo-reactive effector T cells through a diverse repertoire of molecular mechanisms. Accordingly, therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing Treg numbers or potency in the setting of autoimmunity and allogeneic transplants have been energetically pursued and are beginning to yield some encouraging outcomes in early phase clinical trials. Less well recognized from a translational perspective, however, has been the mounting body of evidence that Treg directly modulate most aspects of innate immune response under a range of different acute and chronic disease conditions. Recognizing this aspect of Treg immune modulatory function provides a bridge for the application of Treg-based therapies to common medical conditions in which organ and tissue damage is mediated primarily by inflammation involving myeloid cells (mononuclear phagocytes, granulocytes) and innate lymphocytes (NK cells, NKT cells, γδ T cells and ILCs). In this review, we comprehensively summarize pre-clinical and human research that has revealed diverse modulatory effects of Treg and specific Treg subpopulations on the range of innate immune cell types. In each case, we emphasize the key mechanistic insights and the evidence that Treg interactions with innate immune effectors can have significant impacts on disease severity or treatment. Finally, we discuss the opportunities and challenges that exist for the application of Treg-based therapeutic interventions to three globally impactful, inflammatory conditions: type 2 diabetes and its end-organ complications, ischemia reperfusion injury and atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qifeng Ou
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI) at CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Rachael Power
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI) at CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Matthew D. Griffin
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI) at CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Nephrology Department, Galway University Hospitals, Saolta University Healthcare Group, Galway, Ireland
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19
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Freuchet A, Roy P, Armstrong SS, Oliaeimotlagh M, Kumar S, Orecchioni M, Ali AJ, Khan A, Makings J, Lyu Q, Winkels H, Wang E, Durant C, Ghosheh Y, Gulati R, Nettersheim F, Ley K. Identification of human exT reg cells as CD16 +CD56 + cytotoxic CD4 + T cells. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:1748-1761. [PMID: 37563308 PMCID: PMC11022744 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01589-9] [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: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
In atherosclerosis, some regulatory T (Treg) cells become exTreg cells. We crossed inducible Treg and exTreg cell lineage-tracker mice (FoxP3eGFP-Cre-ERT2ROSA26CAG-fl-stop-fl-tdTomato) to atherosclerosis-prone Apoe-/- mice, sorted Treg cells and exTreg cells and determined their transcriptomes by bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Genes that were differentially expressed between mouse Treg cells and exTreg cells and filtered for their presence in a human single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) panel identified exTreg cell signature genes as CST7, NKG7, GZMA, PRF1, TBX21 and CCL4. Projecting these genes onto the human scRNA-seq with CITE-seq data identified human exTreg cells as CD3+CD4+CD16+CD56+, which was validated by flow cytometry. Bulk RNA-seq of sorted human exTreg cells identified them as inflammatory and cytotoxic CD4+T cells that were significantly distinct from both natural killer and Treg cells. DNA sequencing for T cell receptor-β showed clonal expansion of Treg cell CDR3 sequences in exTreg cells. Cytotoxicity was functionally demonstrated in cell killing and CD107a degranulation assays, which identifies human exTreg cells as cytotoxic CD4+T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Payel Roy
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Sunil Kumar
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Marco Orecchioni
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Amal J Ali
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Amir Khan
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | | | - Qingkang Lyu
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Holger Winkels
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinic III for Internal Medicine, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Erpei Wang
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Yanal Ghosheh
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rishab Gulati
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Klaus Ley
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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20
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Bazioti V, Halmos B, Westerterp M. T-cell Cholesterol Accumulation, Aging, and Atherosclerosis. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2023; 25:527-534. [PMID: 37395922 PMCID: PMC10471657 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-023-01125-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The majority of leukocytes in advanced human atherosclerotic plaques are T-cells. T-cell subsets exert pro- or anti-atherogenic effects largely via the cytokines they secrete. Tregulatory cells (Tregs) are anti-inflammatory, but may lose these properties during atherosclerosis, proposed to be downstream of cholesterol accumulation. Aged T-cells also accumulate cholesterol. The effects of T-cell cholesterol accumulation on T-cell fate and atherosclerosis are not uniform. RECENT FINDINGS T-cell cholesterol accumulation enhances differentiation into pro-atherogenic cytotoxic T-cells and boosts their killing capacity, depending on the localization and extent of cholesterol accumulation. Excessive cholesterol accumulation induces T-cell exhaustion or T-cell apoptosis, the latter decreasing atherosclerosis but impairing T-cell functionality in terms of killing capacity and proliferation. This may explain the compromised T-cell functionality in aged T-cells and T-cells from CVD patients. The extent of T-cell cholesterol accumulation and its cellular localization determine T-cell fate and downstream effects on atherosclerosis and T-cell functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venetia Bazioti
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, Groningen, 9713AV, The Netherlands
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Benedek Halmos
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, Groningen, 9713AV, The Netherlands
| | - Marit Westerterp
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, Groningen, 9713AV, The Netherlands.
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21
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Zheng K, Yang W, Wang S, Sun M, Jin Z, Zhang W, Ren H, Li C. Identification of immune infiltration-related biomarkers in carotid atherosclerotic plaques. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14153. [PMID: 37644056 PMCID: PMC10465496 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40530-w] [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: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic lipid-driven inflammatory response of the innate and adaptive immune systems, and it is responsible for several cardiovascular ischemic events. The present study aimed to determine immune infiltration-related biomarkers in carotid atherosclerotic plaques (CAPs). Gene expression profiles of CAPs were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the CAPs and control groups were screened by the "limma" package in R software. Immune cell infiltration between the CAPs and control groups was evaluated by the single sample gene set enrichment analysis. Key infiltrating immune cells in the CAPs group were screened by the Wilcoxon test and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis was used to identify immune cell-related genes. Hub genes were identified by the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to assess the gene's ability to differentiate between the CAPs and control groups. Finally, we constructed a miRNA-gene-transcription factor network of hub genes by using the ENCODE database. Eleven different types of immune infiltration-related cells were identified between the CAPs and control groups. A total of 1,586 differentially expressed immunity-related genes were obtained through intersection between DEGs and immune-related genes. Twenty hub genes were screened through the PPI network. Eventually, 7 genes (BTK, LYN, PTPN11, CD163, CD4, ITGAL, and ITGB7) were identified as the hub genes of CAPs, and these genes may serve as the estimable drug targets for patients with CAPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zheng
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wentao Yang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shengxing Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mingsheng Sun
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenyi Jin
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wangde Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hualiang Ren
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Chunmin Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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22
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Gong W, Tian Y, Li L. T cells in abdominal aortic aneurysm: immunomodulation and clinical application. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1240132. [PMID: 37662948 PMCID: PMC10471798 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1240132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, and vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) dysfunction. The inflammatory cells involved in AAA mainly include immune cells including macrophages, neutrophils, T-lymphocytes and B lymphocytes and endothelial cells. As the blood vessel wall expands, more and more lymphocytes infiltrate into the outer membrane. It was found that more than 50% of lymphocytes in AAA tissues were CD3+ T cells, including CD4+, CD8+T cells, γδ T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Due to the important role of T cells in inflammatory response, an increasing number of researchers have paid attention to the role of T cells in AAA and dug into the relevant mechanism. Therefore, this paper focuses on reviewing the immunoregulatory role of T cells in AAA and their role in immunotherapy, seeking potential targets for immunotherapy and putting forward future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lei Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
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23
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Popa-Fotea NM, Ferdoschi CE, Micheu MM. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of inflammation in atherosclerosis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1200341. [PMID: 37600028 PMCID: PMC10434786 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1200341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis and its complications are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide in spite of the improved medical and invasive treatment in terms of revascularization. Atherosclerosis is a dynamic, multi-step process in which inflammation is a ubiquitous component participating in the initiation, development, and entanglements of the atherosclerotic plaque. After activation, the immune system, either native or acquired, is part of the atherosclerotic dynamics enhancing the pro-atherogenic function of immune or non-immune cells, such as endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, or platelets, through mediators such as cytokines or directly by cell-to-cell interaction. Cytokines are molecules secreted by the activated cells mentioned above that mediate the inflammatory component of atherosclerosis whose function is to stimulate the immune cells and the production of further cytokines. This review provides insights of the cell axis activation and specific mechanisms and pathways through which inflammation actuates atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoleta-Monica Popa-Fotea
- Department 4 Cardio-Thoracic Pathology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila,”Bucharest, Romania
- Cardiology Department, Emergency Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Corina-Elena Ferdoschi
- Department 4 Cardio-Thoracic Pathology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila,”Bucharest, Romania
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24
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Nardin M, Verdoia M, Laera N, Cao D, De Luca G. New Insights into Pathophysiology and New Risk Factors for ACS. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12082883. [PMID: 37109221 PMCID: PMC10146393 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease still represents the main cause of mortality worldwide. Despite huge improvements, atherosclerosis persists as the principal pathological condition, both in stable and acute presentation. Specifically, acute coronary syndromes have received substantial research and clinical attention in recent years, contributing to improve overall patients' outcome. The identification of different evolution patterns of the atherosclerotic plaque and coronary artery disease has suggested the potential need of different treatment approaches, according to the mechanisms and molecular elements involved. In addition to traditional risk factors, the finer portrayal of other metabolic and lipid-related mediators has led to higher and deep knowledge of atherosclerosis, providing potential new targets for clinical management of the patients. Finally, the impressive advances in genetics and non-coding RNAs have opened a wide field of research both on pathophysiology and the therapeutic side that are extensively under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Nardin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Third Medicine Division, Department of Medicine, ASST Spedali Civili, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Monica Verdoia
- Division of Cardiology, Ospedale degli Infermi, ASL Biella, 13900 Biella, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, 13100 Novara, Italy
| | - Nicola Laera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Davide Cao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Luca
- Division of Cardiology, AOU "Policlinico G. Martino", Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, IRCCS Hospital Galeazzi-Sant'Ambrogio, 20161 Milan, Italy
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25
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Bonacina F, Di Costanzo A, Genkel V, Kong XY, Kroon J, Stimjanin E, Tsiantoulas D, Grootaert MO. The heterogeneous cellular landscape of atherosclerosis: Implications for future research and therapies. A collaborative review from the EAS young fellows. Atherosclerosis 2023; 372:48-56. [PMID: 37030081 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
Single cell technologies, lineage tracing mouse models and advanced imaging techniques unequivocally improved the resolution of the cellular landscape of atherosclerosis. Although the discovery of the heterogeneous nature of the cellular plaque architecture has undoubtedly improved our understanding of the specific cellular states in atherosclerosis progression, it also adds more complexity to current and future research and will change how we approach future drug development. In this review, we will discuss how the revolution of new single cell technologies allowed us to map the cellular networks in the plaque, but we will also address current (technological) limitations that confine us to identify the cellular drivers of the disease and to pinpoint a specific cell state, cell subset or cell surface antigen as new candidate drug target for atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizia Bonacina
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Di Costanzo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vadim Genkel
- Department of Internal Medicine, South-Ural State Medical University, Chelyabinsk, Russia
| | - Xiang Yi Kong
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jeffrey Kroon
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Atherosclerosis & Ischemic Syndromes, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Belgium
| | - Ena Stimjanin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cantonal Hospital Zenical, Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | | | - Mandy Oj Grootaert
- Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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26
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Lyu Q, Ley K. How Lymphatic Endothelial Cells Destabilize Regulatory T Cells. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:215-217. [PMID: 36579643 PMCID: PMC10108378 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.318849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Qingkang Lyu
- Immunology Center of Georgia (Q.L., K.L.), Augusta University
| | - Klaus Ley
- Immunology Center of Georgia (Q.L., K.L.), Augusta University.,Department of Physiology (K.L.), Augusta University
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27
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Nettersheim FS, Ghosheh Y, Winkels H, Kobiyama K, Durant C, Armstrong SS, Brunel S, Roy P, Dileepan T, Jenkins MK, Zajonc DM, Ley K. Single-cell transcriptomes and T cell receptors of vaccine-expanded apolipoprotein B-specific T cells. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 9:1076808. [PMID: 36684560 PMCID: PMC9849899 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.1076808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of death worldwide. CD4 T cells responding to Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), the core protein of most lipoproteins, have been identified as critical disease modulators. In healthy individuals, ApoB-reactive (ApoB+) CD4 T cells are mostly regulatory T cells (Tregs), which exert anti-inflammatory effects. Yet, they may obtain pro-inflammatory features and thus become proatherogenic. Evidence from animal studies suggests that vaccination against certain major histocompatibility complex (MHC) II-binding ApoB peptides induces an expansion of ApoB+ Tregs and thus confers atheroprotection. To date, in-depth phenotyping of vaccine-expanded ApoB+ T cells has not yet been performed. To this end, we vaccinated C57BL/6J mice with the ApoB-peptide P6 (ApoB978-993 TGAYSNASSTESASY) and performed single-cell RNA sequencing of tetramer-sorted P6+ T cells. P6+ cells were clonally expanded (one major, two minor clones) and formed a transcriptional cluster distinct from clusters mainly containing non-expanded P6+ and P6- cells. Transcriptomic profiling revealed that most expanded P6+ cells had a strong Treg signature and highly expressed genes mediating suppressive functions. Yet, some expanded P6+ cells only had a residual Treg signature and expressed genes related to T helper 1 (TH1) cells, which are proatherogenic. Modeling the T cell receptor (TCR) and P6:MHC-II interaction showed that only three amino acid residues in the α and β chain contact the P6 peptide in the MHC-II groove and thus determine the specificity of this TCR to P6. Our data begin to reveal the vaccination-induced response to an ApoB epitope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Sebastian Nettersheim
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Yanal Ghosheh
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Holger Winkels
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kouji Kobiyama
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Simon Brunel
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Payel Roy
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Thamotharampillai Dileepan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Marc K. Jenkins
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Dirk M. Zajonc
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Klaus Ley
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Immunology Center of Georgia (IMMCG), Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
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28
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Chen J, Xiang X, Nie L, Guo X, Zhang F, Wen C, Xia Y, Mao L. The emerging role of Th1 cells in atherosclerosis and its implications for therapy. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1079668. [PMID: 36685487 PMCID: PMC9849744 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1079668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic progressive inflammatory disease of the large and medium-sized artery walls. The molecular mechanisms regulating the onset and progression of atherosclerosis remain unclear. T cells, one of the most common immune cell types in atherosclerotic plaques, are increasingly recognized as a key mediator in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Th1 cells are a subset of CD4+ T helper cells of the adaptive immune system, characterized by the expression of the transcription factor T-bet and secretion of cytokines such as IFN-γ. Converging evidence shows that Th1 cells play a key role in the onset and progression of atherosclerosis. Besides, Th1 is the central mediator to orchestrate the adaptive immune system. In this review, we aim to summarize the complex role of Th1 cells in atherosclerosis and propose novel preventative and therapeutic approaches targeting Th1 cell-associated specific cytokines and receptors to prevent atherogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lei Nie
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoqing Guo
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Wen
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanpeng Xia
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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29
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Márquez-Sánchez AC, Koltsova EK. Immune and inflammatory mechanisms of abdominal aortic aneurysm. Front Immunol 2022; 13:989933. [PMID: 36275758 PMCID: PMC9583679 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.989933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening cardiovascular disease. Immune-mediated infiltration and a destruction of the aortic wall during AAA development plays significant role in the pathogenesis of this disease. While various immune cells had been found in AAA, the mechanisms of their activation and function are still far from being understood. A better understanding of mechanisms regulating the development of aberrant immune cell activation in AAA is essential for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic approaches. In this review we summarize current knowledge about the role of immune cells in AAA and discuss how pathogenic immune cell activation is regulated in this disease.
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30
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Ma J, Luo J, Sun Y, Zhao Z. Cytokines associated with immune response in atherosclerosis. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6424-6444. [PMID: 36247305 PMCID: PMC9556506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is an essential mechanism of immune response that involves a large number of different immune cells. Atherosclerosis is essentially an inflammatory disease caused by inappropriate activities of immune cells. During this process, various cytokines activate immune cells, regulate and transmit immune cell signals, and stimulate a local inflammatory environment. In this study, we reviewed the cytokines associated with immune activity in atherosclerosis, including their roles in immune cell activation and mediating immune cell chemotaxis. The findings give important insights into inflammatory immune microenvironment, including basic mechanisms and interactions, providing new ideas and options for clinical detection and treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiqing Ma
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical UniversityShanghai 200433, China
| | - Jianhua Luo
- National Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology & Institute of Immunology, Naval Medical UniversityShanghai 200433, China
| | - Yudong Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210002, China
| | - Zhiqing Zhao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical UniversityShanghai 200433, China
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31
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Shao Y, Saaoud F, Cornwell W, Xu K, Kirchhoff A, Lu Y, Jiang X, Wang H, Rogers TJ, Yang X. Cigarette Smoke and Morphine Promote Treg Plasticity to Th17 via Enhancing Trained Immunity. Cells 2022; 11:2810. [PMID: 36139385 PMCID: PMC9497420 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) respond to environmental cues to permit or suppress inflammation, and atherosclerosis weakens Treg suppression and promotes plasticity. However, the effects of smoking plus morphine (SM + M) on Treg plasticity remain unknown. To determine whether SM + M promotes Treg plasticity to T helper 17 (Th17) cells, we analyzed the RNA sequencing data from SM, M, and SM + M treated Tregs and performed knowledge-based and IPA analysis. We demonstrated that (1) SM + M, M, and SM upregulated the transcripts of cytokines, chemokines, and clusters of differentiation (CDs) and modulated the transcripts of kinases and phosphatases in Tregs; (2) SM + M, M, and SM upregulated the transcripts of immunometabolism genes, trained immunity genes, and histone modification enzymes; (3) SM + M increased the transcripts of Th17 transcription factor (TF) RORC and Tfh factor CXCR5 in Tregs; M increased the transcripts of T helper cell 1 (Th1) TF RUNX3 and Th1-Th9 receptor CXCR3; and SM inhibited Treg TGIF1 transcript; (4) six genes upregulated in SM + M Tregs were matched with the top-ranked Th17 pathogenic genes; and 57, 39 genes upregulated in SM + M Tregs were matched with groups II and group III Th17 pathogenic genes, respectively; (5) SM + M upregulated the transcripts of 70 IPA-TFs, 11 iTregs-specific TFs, and 4 iTregs-Th17 shared TFs; and (6) SM + M, M, and SM downregulated Treg suppression TF Rel (c-Rel); and 35 SM + M downregulated genes were overlapped with Rel-/- Treg downregulated genes. These results provide novel insights on the roles of SM + M in reprogramming Treg transcriptomes and Treg plasticity to Th17 cells and novel targets for future therapeutic interventions involving immunosuppression in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, transplantation, and cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shao
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Fatma Saaoud
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - William Cornwell
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Keman Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Aaron Kirchhoff
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Yifan Lu
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Hong Wang
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Thomas J. Rogers
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
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Liu Y, Yu X, Zhang W, Zhang X, Wang M, Ji F. Mechanistic insight into premature atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications in systemic lupus erythematosus. J Autoimmun 2022; 132:102863. [PMID: 35853760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2022.102863] [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: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with a significant risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which substantially increases disease mortality and morbidity. The overall mechanisms associated with the development of premature atherosclerosis and CVD in SLE remain unclear, but has been considered as a result of an intricate interplay between the profound immune dysregulation and traditional CVD risk factors. Aberrant systemic inflammation in SLE may lead to an abnormal lipid profile and dysfunction, which can further fuel the pro-atherosclerotic environment. The existence of a strong imbalance between endothelial damage and vascular repair/angiogenesis promotes vascular injury, which is the early step in the progression of atherosclerotic CVD. Profound innate and adaptive immune dysregulation, characterized by excessive type I interferon burden, aberrant macrophage, platelet and complements activation, neutrophil dysregulation and neutrophil extracellular traps formation, uncontrolled T cell activation, and excessive autoantibody production and immune complex formation, have been proposed to promote accelerated CVD in SLE. While designing targeted therapies to correct the dysregulated immune activation may be beneficial in the treatment of SLE-related CVD, much additional work is needed to determine how to translate these findings into clinical practice. Additionally, a number of biomarkers display diagnostic potentials in improving CVD risk stratification in SLE, further prospective studies will help understand which biomarker(s) will be the most impactful one(s) in assessing SLE-linked CVD. Continued efforts to identify novel mechanisms and to establish criteria for assessing CVD risk as well as predicting CVD progression are in great need to improve CVD outcomes in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudong Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China; The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, National Health Commission, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Xue Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Wenduo Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Fusui Ji
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China.
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The why and how of adaptive immune responses in ischemic cardiovascular disease. NATURE CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH 2022; 1:431-444. [PMID: 36382200 PMCID: PMC7613798 DOI: 10.1038/s44161-022-00049-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is a major cause of disability and death worldwide. Most therapeutic approaches target traditional risk factors but ignore the fundamental role of the immune system. This is a huge unmet need. Recent evidence indicates that reducing inflammation may limit cardiovascular events. However, the concomitant increase in the risk of lifethreatening infections is a major drawback. In this context, targeting adaptive immunity could constitute a highly effective and safer approach. In this Review, we address the why and how of the immuno-cardiovascular unit, in health and in atherosclerotic disease. We review and discuss fundamental mechanisms that ensure immune tolerance to cardiovascular tissue, and examine how their disruption promotes disease progression. We identify promising strategies to manipulate the adaptive immune system for patient benefit, including novel biologics and RNA-based vaccination strategies. Finally, we advocate for establishing a molecular classification of atherosclerosis as an important milestone in our quest to radically change the understanding and treatment of atherosclerotic disease.
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Shao Y, Cornwell W, Xu K, Kirchhoff A, Saasoud F, Lu Y, Jiang X, Criner GJ, Wang H, Rogers TJ, Yang X. Chronic Exposure to the Combination of Cigarette Smoke and Morphine Decreases CD4 + Regulatory T Cell Numbers by Reprogramming the Treg Cell Transcriptome. Front Immunol 2022; 13:887681. [PMID: 35514978 PMCID: PMC9065607 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.887681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a high incidence of tobacco use among intravenous opioid drug users. It is well established that opioids and tobacco smoke induce a degree of immune activation, and recent work suggests that the combination of these drugs promotes further activation of the immune system. Our approach involved the treatment of wild-type mice with cigarette smoke (SM) for a period of eight weeks, and the chronic continuous administration of morphine (M) via mini-pumps for the final four weeks. In an effort to examine the responses of CD4+CD25highCD127low regulatory T (Treg) cells, the major immune suppressive cell type, to the combined chronic administration of SM and M, we determined the frequency of these cells in the spleen, lymph nodes and lungs. Flow cytometric analyses showed that SM and M individually, and the combination (SM + M) have differential effects on the numbers of Treg in the spleen, lymph node, and lung. Either SM or M alone increased Treg cell numbers in the spleen, but SM+M did not. Furthermore, SM + M decreased Treg cell numbers in the lymph node and lung. We then performed RNA-Seq on Treg cells from mice treated with SM, M, or SM + M, and we found that the S + M induced a number of significant changes in the transcriptome, that were not as apparent following treatment with either SM or M alone. This included an activation of TWEAK, PI3K/AKT and OXPHOS pathways and a shift to Th17 immunity. Our results have provided novel insights on tissue Treg cell changes, which we suggest are the result of transcriptomic reprogramming induced by SM, M, and SM + M, respectively. We believe these results may lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets for suppressing smoke and opioid induced Treg cell impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shao
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - William Cornwell
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Keman Xu
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Aaron Kirchhoff
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Fatma Saasoud
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Yifan Lu
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Gerard J. Criner
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Thoracic Medicine and Surgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hong Wang
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Thomas J. Rogers
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Saxena V, Piao W, Li L, Paluskievicz C, Xiong Y, Simon T, Lakhan R, Brinkman CC, Walden S, Hippen KL, WillsonShirkey M, Lee YS, Wagner C, Blazar BR, Bromberg JS. Treg tissue stability depends on lymphotoxin beta-receptor- and adenosine-receptor-driven lymphatic endothelial cell responses. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110727. [PMID: 35443187 PMCID: PMC9093052 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cell (Treg) lymphatic migration is required for resolving inflammation and prolonging allograft survival. Focusing on Treg interactions with lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), we dissect mechanisms and functional consequences of Treg transendothelial migration (TEM). Using three genetic mouse models of pancreatic islet transplantation, we show that Treg lymphotoxin (LT) αβ and LEC LTβ receptor (LTβR) signaling are required for efficient Treg migration and suppressive function to prolong allograft survival. Inhibition of LT signaling increases Treg conversion to Foxp3loCD25lo exTregs. In a transwell-based model of TEM across polarized LECs, non-migrated Tregs become exTregs. Such conversion is regulated by LTβR nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling in LECs, which increases interleukin-6 (IL-6) production and drives exTreg conversion. Migrating Tregs are ectonucleotidase CD39hi and resist exTreg conversion in an adenosine-receptor-2A-dependent fashion. Human Tregs migrating across human LECs behave similarly. These molecular interactions can be targeted for therapeutic manipulation of immunity and suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Saxena
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Wenji Piao
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Lushen Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Christina Paluskievicz
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Yanbao Xiong
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Thomas Simon
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Ram Lakhan
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - C Colin Brinkman
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Sarah Walden
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Keli L Hippen
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Marina WillsonShirkey
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Young S Lee
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Chelsea Wagner
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Bruce R Blazar
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jonathan S Bromberg
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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36
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How the immune system shapes atherosclerosis: roles of innate and adaptive immunity. Nat Rev Immunol 2022; 22:251-265. [PMID: 34389841 PMCID: PMC10111155 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-021-00584-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 90.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the root cause of many cardiovascular diseases. Extensive research in preclinical models and emerging evidence in humans have established the crucial roles of the innate and adaptive immune systems in driving atherosclerosis-associated chronic inflammation in arterial blood vessels. New techniques have highlighted the enormous heterogeneity of leukocyte subsets in the arterial wall that have pro-inflammatory or regulatory roles in atherogenesis. Understanding the homing and activation pathways of these immune cells, their disease-associated dynamics and their regulation by microbial and metabolic factors will be crucial for the development of clinical interventions for atherosclerosis, including potentially vaccination-based therapeutic strategies. Here, we review key molecular mechanisms of immune cell activation implicated in modulating atherogenesis and provide an update on the contributions of innate and adaptive immune cell subsets in atherosclerosis.
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Nettersheim FS, Braumann S, Kobiyama K, Orecchioni M, Vassallo M, Miller J, Ali A, Roy P, Saigusa R, Wolf D, Ley K, Winkels H. Autoimmune Regulator (AIRE) Deficiency Does Not Affect Atherosclerosis and CD4 T Cell Immune Tolerance to Apolipoprotein B. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 8:812769. [PMID: 35097028 PMCID: PMC8792778 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.812769] [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: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic, lipid-driven disease of medium sized arteries which causes myocardial infarction and stroke. Recently, an adaptive immune response against the plaque-associated autoantigen Apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB), the structural protein component of low-density lipoprotein, has been implicated in atherogenesis. In healthy individuals, CD4+ T cells responding to ApoB mainly comprised regulatory T cells, which confer immune tolerance and atheroprotection. Mice and patients with atherosclerosis harbor increased numbers of proatherogenic ApoB-reactive T-helper cell subsets. Given the lack of therapies targeting proatherogenic immunity, clarification of the underlying mechanisms is of high clinical relevance. T cells develop in the thymus, where strong autoreactive T cells are eliminated in the process of negative selection. Herein, we investigated whether the transcription factor autoimmune regulator (AIRE), which controls expression of numerous tissue-restricted self-antigens in the thymus, is involved in mediating tolerance to ApoB and whether Aire deficiency might contribute to atherogenesis. Mice deficient for Aire were crossbred to apolipoprotein E-deficient mice to obtain atherosclerosis-prone Aire−/−Apoe−/− mice, which were fed a regular chow diet (CD) or western-type diet (WD). CD4+ T cells responding to the ApoB peptide p6 were analyzed by flow cytometry. We demonstrate that Aire deficiency influences neither generation nor activation of ApoB-reactive T cells and has only minor and overall inconsistent impacts on their phenotype. Furthermore, we show that atherosclerotic plaque size is not affected in Aire−/−Apoe−/− compared to Aire+/+Apoe−/−, irrespective of diet and gender. In conclusion, our data suggests that AIRE is not involved in regulating thymic expression of ApoB or atherosclerosis. Alternative mechanisms how ApoB-reactive CD4 T cells are selected in the thymus will have to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Sebastian Nettersheim
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Simon Braumann
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kouji Kobiyama
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Amal Ali
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Payel Roy
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Ryosuke Saigusa
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Dennis Wolf
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Ley
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Holger Winkels
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Holger Winkels
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Mauersberger C, Hinterdobler J, Schunkert H, Kessler T, Sager HB. Where the Action Is-Leukocyte Recruitment in Atherosclerosis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 8:813984. [PMID: 35087886 PMCID: PMC8787128 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.813984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of death worldwide and leukocyte recruitment is a key element of this phenomenon, thus allowing immune cells to enter the arterial wall. There, in concert with accumulating lipids, the invading leukocytes trigger a plethora of inflammatory responses which promote the influx of additional leukocytes and lead to the continued growth of atherosclerotic plaques. The recruitment process follows a precise scheme of tethering, rolling, firm arrest, crawling and transmigration and involves multiple cellular and subcellular players. This review aims to provide a comprehensive up-to-date insight into the process of leukocyte recruitment relevant to atherosclerosis, each from the perspective of endothelial cells, monocytes and macrophages, neutrophils, T lymphocytes and platelets. In addition, therapeutic options targeting leukocyte recruitment into atherosclerotic lesions-or potentially arising from the growing body of insights into its precise mechanisms-are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Mauersberger
- Department of Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Hinterdobler
- Department of Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Heribert Schunkert
- Department of Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Thorsten Kessler
- Department of Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Hendrik B. Sager
- Department of Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
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39
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Gerhardt T, Haghikia A, Stapmanns P, Leistner DM. Immune Mechanisms of Plaque Instability. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 8:797046. [PMID: 35087883 PMCID: PMC8787133 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.797046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation crucially drives atherosclerosis from disease initiation to the emergence of clinical complications. Targeting pivotal inflammatory pathways without compromising the host defense could compliment therapy with lipid-lowering agents, anti-hypertensive treatment, and lifestyle interventions to address the substantial residual cardiovascular risk that remains beyond classical risk factor control. Detailed understanding of the intricate immune mechanisms that propel plaque instability and disruption is indispensable for the development of novel therapeutic concepts. In this review, we provide an overview on the role of key immune cells in plaque inception and progression, and discuss recently identified maladaptive immune phenomena that contribute to plaque destabilization, including epigenetically programmed trained immunity in myeloid cells, pathogenic conversion of autoreactive regulatory T-cells and expansion of altered leukocytes due to clonal hematopoiesis. From a more global perspective, the article discusses how systemic crises such as acute mental stress or infection abruptly raise plaque vulnerability and summarizes recent advances in understanding the increased cardiovascular risk associated with COVID-19 disease. Stepping outside the box, we highlight the role of gut dysbiosis in atherosclerosis progression and plaque vulnerability. The emerging differential role of the immune system in plaque rupture and plaque erosion as well as the limitations of animal models in studying plaque disruption are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Gerhardt
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Cardiology, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Arash Haghikia
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Cardiology, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Philip Stapmanns
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Cardiology, Berlin, Germany
| | - David Manuel Leistner
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Cardiology, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: David Manuel Leistner
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40
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Marchini T, Abogunloko T, Wolf D. Modulating Autoimmunity against LDL: Development of a Vaccine against Atherosclerosis. Hamostaseologie 2021; 41:447-457. [PMID: 34942658 PMCID: PMC8702296 DOI: 10.1055/a-1661-1908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAtherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial wall that leads to the build-up of occluding atherosclerotic plaques. Its clinical sequelae, myocardial infarction and stroke, represent the most frequent causes of death worldwide. Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial pathology that involves traditional risk factors and chronic low-grade inflammation in the atherosclerotic plaque and systemically. This process is accompanied by a strong autoimmune response that involves autoreactive T cells in lymph nodes and atherosclerotic plaques, as well as autoantibodies that recognize low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and its main protein component apolipoprotein B (ApoB). In the past 60 years, numerous preclinical observations have suggested that immunomodulatory vaccination with LDL, ApoB, or its peptides has the potential to specifically dampen autoimmunity, enhance tolerance to atherosclerosis-specific antigens, and protect from experimental atherosclerosis in mouse models. Here, we summarize and discuss mechanisms, challenges, and therapeutic opportunities of immunomodulatory vaccination and other strategies to enhance protective immunity in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timoteo Marchini
- Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center and Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular (IBIMOL), Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tijani Abogunloko
- Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center and Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dennis Wolf
- Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center and Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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41
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Tanaka T, Sasaki N, Rikitake Y. Recent Advances on the Role and Therapeutic Potential of Regulatory T Cells in Atherosclerosis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10245907. [PMID: 34945203 PMCID: PMC8707380 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10245907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic diseases, including ischemic heart disease and stroke, are a main cause of mortality worldwide. Chronic vascular inflammation via immune dysregulation is critically involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Accumulating evidence suggests that regulatory T cells (Tregs), responsible for maintaining immunological tolerance and suppressing excessive immune responses, play an important role in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis through the regulation of pathogenic immunoinflammatory responses. Several strategies to prevent and treat atherosclerosis through the promotion of regulatory immune responses have been developed, and could be clinically applied for the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In this review, we summarize recent advances in our understanding of the protective role of Tregs in atherosclerosis and discuss attractive approaches to treat atherosclerotic disease by augmenting regulatory immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Tanaka
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Kobe 658-8558, Japan; (T.T.); (Y.R.)
| | - Naoto Sasaki
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Kobe 658-8558, Japan; (T.T.); (Y.R.)
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +81-78-441-7579
| | - Yoshiyuki Rikitake
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Kobe 658-8558, Japan; (T.T.); (Y.R.)
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Shao Y, Yang WY, Saaoud F, Drummer C, Sun Y, Xu K, Lu Y, Shan H, Shevach EM, Jiang X, Wang H, Yang X. IL-35 promotes CD4+Foxp3+ Tregs and inhibits atherosclerosis via maintaining CCR5-amplified Treg-suppressive mechanisms. JCI Insight 2021; 6:152511. [PMID: 34622804 PMCID: PMC8525592 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.152511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tregs play vital roles in suppressing atherogenesis. Pathological conditions reshape Tregs and increase Treg-weakening plasticity. It remains unclear how Tregs preserve their function and how Tregs switch into alternative phenotypes in the environment of atherosclerosis. In this study, we observed a great induction of CD4+Foxp3+ Tregs in the spleen and aorta of ApoE–/– mice, accompanied by a significant increase of plasma IL-35 levels. To determine if IL-35 devotes its role in the rise of Tregs, we generated IL-35 subunit P35–deficient (IL-35P35–deficient) mice on an ApoE–/– background and found Treg reduction in the spleen and aorta compared with ApoE–/– controls. In addition, our RNA sequencing data show the elevation of a set of chemokine receptor transcripts in the ApoE–/– Tregs, and we have validated higher CCR5 expression in ApoE–/– Tregs in the presence of IL-35 than in the absence of IL-35. Furthermore, we observed that CCR5+ Tregs in ApoE–/– have lower Treg-weakening AKT-mTOR signaling, higher expression of inhibitory checkpoint receptors TIGIT and PD-1, and higher expression of IL-10 compared with WT CCR5+ Tregs. In conclusion, IL-35 counteracts hyperlipidemia in maintaining Treg-suppressive function by increasing 3 CCR5-amplified mechanisms, including Treg migration, inhibition of Treg weakening AKT-mTOR signaling, and promotion of TIGIT and PD-1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yu Sun
- Centers for Cardiovascular Research
| | - Keman Xu
- Centers for Cardiovascular Research
| | - Yifan Lu
- Centers for Cardiovascular Research
| | - Huimin Shan
- Metabolic Disease Research & Thrombosis Research, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ethan M Shevach
- Laboratory of Immune System Biology, Cellular Immunology Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- Centers for Cardiovascular Research.,Metabolic Disease Research & Thrombosis Research, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hong Wang
- Metabolic Disease Research & Thrombosis Research, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Centers for Cardiovascular Research.,Metabolic Disease Research & Thrombosis Research, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Centers for Inflammation, Translational & Clinical Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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43
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Deroissart J, Porsch F, Koller T, Binder CJ. Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Therapies in Atherosclerosis. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2021; 270:359-404. [PMID: 34251531 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor in atherosclerosis development and lipid-lowering drugs (i.e., statins) remain the treatment of choice. Despite effective reduction of LDL cholesterol in patients, a residual cardiovascular risk persists in some individuals, highlighting the need for further therapeutic intervention. Recently, the CANTOS trial paved the way toward the development of specific therapies targeting inflammation, a key feature in atherosclerosis progression. The pre-existence of multiple drugs modulating both innate and adaptive immune responses has significantly accelerated the number of translational studies applying these drugs to atherosclerosis. Additional preclinical research has led to the discovery of new therapeutic targets, offering promising perspectives for the treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis. Currently, both drugs with selective targeting and broad unspecific anti-inflammatory effects have been tested. In this chapter, we aim to give an overview of current advances in immunomodulatory treatment approaches for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Deroissart
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florentina Porsch
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Koller
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph J Binder
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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44
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Estrogenic bias in T-Lymphocyte biology: Implications for cardiovascular disease. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105606. [PMID: 34119620 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Gender bias in cardiovascular disease has been extensively documented in epidemiological and clinical studies. Despite this, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying these disparities between men and women are poorly understood. It is clear that physiological concentrations of estradiol, such as those present in pre-menopausal women, exert cardioprotective effects that are absent in men or in post-menopausal women. These cardioprotective effects, in part, are due to the estrogen receptor-mediated modulation of the immune system including T-cells. Estrogen receptors (ERs) are widely expressed in different T-cell subsets which are known to play an indispensable role in the progression of cardiovascular disease. Because T-cells can be polarized into several distinct subsets depending on the activation milieu, they can have many different, potentially opposing functions, and it is unclear what roles estrogen receptor signaling may play in mediating these functions. This is further complicated by the discrete and often antagonistic actions of different ERs on T-cell biology which dictate the balance between numerous ER-dependent signaling pathways. While myriad effects of estrogen in T-cells are relevant for many cardiovascular diseases, their widespread effects on several other (patho)physiological systems introduce several obstacles to understanding ER signaling and its precise effects on the immune system. This review aims to provide a more comprehensive summary of the mechanisms of estrogen receptor-mediated modulation of T-cell function, polarization, and cytokine production in the context of cardiovascular disease.
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45
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Yin T, Li Y, Ren Y, Fuad ARM, Hu F, Du R, Wang Y, Wang G, Wang Y. Phagocytosis of polymeric nanoparticles aided activation of macrophages to increase atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE -/- mice. J Nanobiotechnology 2021; 19:121. [PMID: 33910571 PMCID: PMC8082811 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-00863-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The unique physiochemical properties of nanomaterials have been widely used in drug delivery systems and diagnostic contrast agents. The safety issues of biomaterials with exceptional biocompatibility and hemo-compatibility have also received extensive attention at the nanoscale, especially in cardiovascular disease. Therefore, we conducted a study of the effects of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) on the development of aortic atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE−/− mice. The particle size of PLGA NPs was 92.69 ± 3.1 nm and the zeta potential were − 31.6 ± 2.8 mV, with good blood compatibility. ApoE−/− mice were continuously injected with PLGA NPs intravenously for 4 and 12 weeks. Examination of oil red O stained aortic sinuses confirmed that the accumulation of PLGA NPs caused a significantly higher extension of atherosclerotic plaques and increasing the expression of associated inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α and IL-6. The combined exposure of ox-LDL and PLGA NPs accelerated the conversion of macrophages to foam cells. Our results highlight further understanding the interaction between PLGA NPs and the atherosclerotic plaques, which we should consider in future nanomaterial design and pay more attention to the process of using nano-medicines on cardiovascular diseases. ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Tieying Yin
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
| | - Yanhong Li
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yuzhen Ren
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Atik Rohmana Maftuhatul Fuad
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Fangfang Hu
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Ruolin Du
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yazhou Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China. .,School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China.
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46
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Amersfoort J, Schaftenaar FH, Douna H, van Santbrink PJ, van Puijvelde GHM, Slütter B, Foks AC, Harms A, Moreno-Gordaliza E, Wang Y, Hankemeier T, Bot I, Chi H, Kuiper J. Diet-induced dyslipidemia induces metabolic and migratory adaptations in regulatory T cells. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 117:1309-1324. [PMID: 32653923 PMCID: PMC8064436 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvaa208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS A hallmark of advanced atherosclerosis is inadequate immunosuppression by regulatory T (Treg) cells inside atherosclerotic lesions. Dyslipidemia has been suggested to alter Treg cell migration by affecting the expression of specific membrane proteins, thereby decreasing Treg cell migration towards atherosclerotic lesions. Besides membrane proteins, cellular metabolism has been shown to be a crucial factor in Treg cell migration. We aimed to determine whether dyslipidemia contributes to altered migration of Treg cells, in part, by affecting cellular metabolism. METHODS AND RESULTS Dyslipidemia was induced by feeding Ldlr-/- mice a western-type diet for 16-20 weeks and intrinsic changes in Treg cells affecting their migration and metabolism were examined. Dyslipidemia was associated with altered mTORC2 signalling in Treg cells, decreased expression of membrane proteins involved in migration, including CD62L, CCR7, and S1Pr1, and decreased Treg cell migration towards lymph nodes. Furthermore, we discovered that diet-induced dyslipidemia inhibited mTORC1 signalling, induced PPARδ activation and increased fatty acid (FA) oxidation in Treg cells. Moreover, mass-spectrometry analysis of serum from Ldlr-/- mice with normolipidemia or dyslipidemia showed increases in multiple PPARδ ligands during dyslipidemia. Treatment with a synthetic PPARδ agonist increased the migratory capacity of Treg cells in vitro and in vivo in an FA oxidation-dependent manner. Furthermore, diet-induced dyslipidemia actually enhanced Treg cell migration into the inflamed peritoneum and into atherosclerotic lesions in vitro. CONCLUSION Altogether, our findings implicate that dyslipidemia does not contribute to atherosclerosis by impairing Treg cell migration as dyslipidemia associated with an effector-like migratory phenotype in Treg cells.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Atherosclerosis/genetics
- Atherosclerosis/immunology
- Atherosclerosis/metabolism
- Atherosclerosis/pathology
- Cell Movement/drug effects
- Cells, Cultured
- Coculture Techniques
- Diet, High-Fat
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dyslipidemias/genetics
- Dyslipidemias/immunology
- Dyslipidemias/metabolism
- Energy Metabolism/drug effects
- Fatty Acids/metabolism
- Inflammation/genetics
- Inflammation/immunology
- Inflammation/metabolism
- Inflammation/pathology
- Inflammation Mediators/metabolism
- Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1/metabolism
- Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 2/metabolism
- Mice, Knockout, ApoE
- Oxidation-Reduction
- PPAR gamma/agonists
- PPAR gamma/metabolism
- Phenotype
- Plaque, Atherosclerotic
- Receptors, LDL/genetics
- Receptors, LDL/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/metabolism
- Thiazoles/pharmacology
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Amersfoort
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frank H Schaftenaar
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hidde Douna
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J van Santbrink
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Gijs H M van Puijvelde
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Bram Slütter
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Amanda C Foks
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Amy Harms
- Division of Biomedicine and Systems Pharmacology, LACDR, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Yanyan Wang
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Thomas Hankemeier
- Division of Biomedicine and Systems Pharmacology, LACDR, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ilze Bot
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hongbo Chi
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Johan Kuiper
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
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47
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Ait-Oufella H, Lavillegrand JR, Tedgui A. Regulatory T Cell-Enhancing Therapies to Treat Atherosclerosis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040723. [PMID: 33805071 PMCID: PMC8064079 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental studies have provided strong evidence that chronic inflammation triggered by the sub-endothelial accumulation of cholesterol-rich lipoproteins in arteries is essential in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Recent clinical trials highlighting the efficacy of anti-inflammatory therapies in coronary patients have confirmed that this is also true in humans Monocytes/macrophages are central cells in the atherosclerotic process, but adaptive immunity, through B and T lymphocytes, as well as dendritic cells, also modulates the progression of the disease. Analysis of the role of different T cell subpopulations in murine models of atherosclerosis identified effector Th1 cells as proatherogenic, whereas regulatory T cells (Tregs) have been shown to protect against atherosclerosis. For these reasons, better understanding of how Tregs influence the atherosclerotic process is believed to provide novel Treg-targeted therapies to combat atherosclerosis. This review article summarizes current knowledge about the role of Tregs in atherosclerosis and discusses ways to enhance their function as novel immunomodulatory therapeutic approaches against cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafid Ait-Oufella
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center—PARCC, Université de Paris, INSERM UMR-S 970, 75012 Paris, France; (J.-R.L.); (A.T.)
- AP-HP (Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris), Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Sorbonne Université, 75012 Paris, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-1-5398-8006; Fax: +33-1-5398-8052
| | - Jean-Rémi Lavillegrand
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center—PARCC, Université de Paris, INSERM UMR-S 970, 75012 Paris, France; (J.-R.L.); (A.T.)
| | - Alain Tedgui
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center—PARCC, Université de Paris, INSERM UMR-S 970, 75012 Paris, France; (J.-R.L.); (A.T.)
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48
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Ley K. Fortified Tregs to fight atherosclerosis. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 117:1987-1988. [PMID: 33744912 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Ley
- Inflammation Biology Laboratory, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
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49
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Marchini T, Hansen S, Wolf D. ApoB-Specific CD4 + T Cells in Mouse and Human Atherosclerosis. Cells 2021; 10:446. [PMID: 33669769 PMCID: PMC7922692 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the arterial wall that leads to the formation of vessel-occluding plaques within the subintimal space of middle-sized and larger arteries. While traditionally understood as a myeloid-driven lipid-storage disease, growing evidence suggests that the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) ignites an autoimmune response with CD4+ T-helper (TH) cells that recognize self-peptides from Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), the core protein of LDL-C. These autoreactive CD4+ T cells home to the atherosclerotic plaque, clonally expand, instruct other cells in the plaque, and induce clinical plaque instability. Recent developments in detecting antigen-specific cells at the single cell level have demonstrated that ApoB-reactive CD4+ T cells exist in humans and mice. Their phenotypes and functions deviate from classical immunological concepts of distinct and terminally differentiated TH immunity. Instead, ApoB-specific CD4+ T cells have a highly plastic phenotype, can acquire several, partially opposing and mixed transcriptional programs simultaneously, and transit from one TH subset into another over time. In this review, we highlight adaptive immune mechanisms in atherosclerosis with a focus on CD4+ T cells, introduce novel technologies to detect ApoB-specific CD4+ T cells at the single cell level, and discuss the potential impact of ApoB-driven autoimmunity in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timoteo Marchini
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center Freiburg, Hugstetterstraße 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (T.M.); (S.H.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacherstraße 153, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
- Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Instituto de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular (IBIMOL), Junín 954, C1113 AAD Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sophie Hansen
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center Freiburg, Hugstetterstraße 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (T.M.); (S.H.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacherstraße 153, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dennis Wolf
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center Freiburg, Hugstetterstraße 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (T.M.); (S.H.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacherstraße 153, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
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50
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Marchini T, Mitre LS, Wolf D. Inflammatory Cell Recruitment in Cardiovascular Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:635527. [PMID: 33681219 PMCID: PMC7930487 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.635527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, the main underlying pathology for myocardial infarction and stroke, is a chronic inflammatory disease of middle-sized to large arteries that is initiated and maintained by leukocytes infiltrating into the subendothelial space. It is now clear that the accumulation of pro-inflammatory leukocytes drives progression of atherosclerosis, its clinical complications, and directly modulates tissue-healing in the infarcted heart after myocardial infarction. This inflammatory response is orchestrated by multiple soluble mediators that enhance inflammation systemically and locally, as well as by a multitude of partially tissue-specific molecules that regulate homing, adhesion, and transmigration of leukocytes. While numerous experimental studies in the mouse have refined our understanding of leukocyte accumulation from a conceptual perspective, only a few anti-leukocyte therapies have been directly validated in humans. Lack of tissue-tropism of targeted factors required for leukocyte accumulation and unspecific inhibition strategies remain the major challenges to ultimately translate therapies that modulate leukocytes accumulation into clinical practice. Here, we carefully describe receptor and ligand pairs that guide leukocyte accumulation into the atherosclerotic plaque and the infarcted myocardium, and comment on potential future medical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timoteo Marchini
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular (IBIMOL), Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lucía Sol Mitre
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dennis Wolf
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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