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Zheng T, Liu C, Wang Y, Zhou H, Zhou R, Zhu X, Zhu Z, Tan Y, Li Z, Huang X, Tan J, Zhu K. Inflammatory cytokines mediating the effect of oral lichen planus on oral cavity cancer risk: a univariable and multivariable mendelian randomization study. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:375. [PMID: 38519926 PMCID: PMC10958829 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04104-0] [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: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While observational studies and experimental data suggest a link between oral lichen planus (OLP) and oral cavity cancer (OCC), the causal relationship and the role of inflammatory cytokines remain unclear. METHODS This study employed a univariable and multivariable Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal relationship between OLP and the risk of OCC. Additionally, the potential role of inflammatory cytokines in modulating this association was explored. Instrumental variables were derived from genetic variants associated with OLP (n = 377,277) identified in Finngen R9 datasets, with 41 inflammatory cytokines as potential mediators, and OCC (n = 4,151) as the outcome variable. Analytical methods including Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW), Weighted Median, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO were utilized to assess the causal links among OLP, inflammatory cytokines, and OCC risk. Multivariable MR (MVMR) was then applied to quantify the mediating effects of these cytokines in the relationship between OLP and increased OCC risk. RESULTS MR analysis provided strong evidence of a causal relationship between OLP (OR = 1.417, 95% CI = 1.167-1.721, p < 0.001) and the risk of OCC. Furthermore, two inflammatory cytokines significantly influenced by OLP, IL-13 (OR = 1.088, 95% CI: 1.007-1.175, P = 0.032) and IL-9 (OR = 1.085, 95% CI: 1.005-1.171, P = 0.037), were identified. Subsequent analysis revealed a significant causal association only between IL-13 (OR = 1.408, 95% CI: 1.147-1.727, P = 0.001) and higher OCC risk, establishing it as a potential mediator. Further, MVMR analysis indicated that IL-13 (OR = 1.437, 95% CI = 1.139-1.815, P = 0.002) mediated the relationship between OLP and OCC, accounting for 8.13% of the mediation. CONCLUSION This study not only elucidates the potential causal relationship between OLP and the risk of OCC but also highlights the pivotal mediating role of IL-13 in this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zheng
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chengyong Liu
- Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yetong Wang
- Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Han Zhou
- Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Rong Zhou
- Changsha Hospital for Maternal and Child Health Care, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xuan Zhu
- Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zibing Zhu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yisi Tan
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhengrui Li
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xufeng Huang
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Jin Tan
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Keke Zhu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Alsaffar RM, Alkholifi FK. Exploring the efficacy and contribution of Dupilumab in asthma management. Mol Immunol 2022; 146:9-17. [PMID: 35397375 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2022.03.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
IgG4 monoclonal antibody Dupilumab binds to the alpha chain (IL4R) of both types of the ligand-binding domains (IL4R/ IL13R1; equally IL4 and IL13 specific) of the IL-4 receptor. The current focus on precision medicine techniques to blocking pathways implicated in allergy disorders is crucial to the development of Dupilumab and broadening its therapeutic uses. Our review describes how the IL-4R complexes signaling pathway works, explores the probable mechanisms of Dupilumab activity and addresses its clinical usefulness and safety in asthma. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) already licences it to treat Alzheimer's disease and moderate-to-severe asthma, and it has shown highly significant results in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis and Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Previous investigations and clinical trials undertaken by various pharmaceutical firms are examined in this review article to assess the existing literature fully. The discovery of Dupilumab and the expanding range of therapeutic uses are pertinent to the current focus on precision medicine methods to blocking asthma-related pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana M Alsaffar
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Faisal K Alkholifi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
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Yan P, Su Y, Shang C, Zhou X, Yang Y, An W, An W, Yu C, Wang S. The establishment of humanized IL-4/IL-4RA mouse model by gene editing and efficacy evaluation. Immunobiology 2020; 225:151998. [PMID: 32962818 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2020.151998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a common respiratory immune disease in children and adults, and interleukin-4 (IL-4) is one of the key factors for the onset of asthma. Therefore, targeting human IL-4 and IL-4 receptor alpha (IL-4RA) has become one of the strategies for targeted therapy of cytokines. Herein, we established an animal model of asthmatic airway inflammation using double humanized IL-4/IL-4RA (hIL-4/hIL-4RA) mice, where human IL-4 and IL-4RA replaced their murine counterparts, respectively. We successfully identified the phenotype by Southern blotting, ELISA, and flow cytometry. The hIL-4/hIL-4RA mice induced by ovalbumin (OVA) exhibited several important features of asthma, such as inflammatory cell infiltration, IgE release, goblet cell hyperplasia, and Th2 cytokine secretion. Furthermore, treatment of these humanized mice with anti-human IL-4RA antibodies significantly inhibited level of these pathological indicators. Thus, hIL-4/hIL-4RA mice provide a validated preclinical mouse model to interrogate new therapeutic agents targeting this specific cytokine pathway in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peili Yan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Youhong Su
- Beijing Biocytogen, Beijing 102600, China
| | | | | | - Yi Yang
- Beijing Biocytogen, Beijing 102600, China
| | - Wenqian An
- Beijing Biocytogen, Beijing 102600, China
| | - Wenlin An
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Changyuan Yu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China.
| | - Shihui Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China; Qinhuangdao BohaiBiological Research Institute of BUCT, No.41 of Shugu Avenue, Qinghuangdao, Hebei, 066000, PR China.
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Kassem KM, Ali M, Rhaleb NE. Interleukin 4: Its Role in Hypertension, Atherosclerosis, Valvular, and Nonvalvular Cardiovascular Diseases. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2019; 25:7-14. [PMID: 31401864 DOI: 10.1177/1074248419868699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the major physiological risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, and it affects more than 1 billion adults worldwide, killing 9 million people every year according to World Health Organization. Also, hypertension is associated with increased risk of kidney disease and stroke. Studying the risk factors that contribute to the pathogenesis of hypertension is key to preventing and controlling hypertension. Numerous laboratories around to globe are very active pursuing research studies to delineate the factors, such as the role of immune system, which could contribute to hypertension. There are studies that were conducted on immune-deficient mice for which experimentally induced hypertension has been ameliorated. Thus, there are possibilities that immune reactivity could be associated with the development of certain type of hypertension. Furthermore, interleukin 4 has been associated with the development of pulmonary hypertension, which could lead to right ventricular remodeling. Also, the immune system is involved in valvular and nonvalvular cardiac remodeling. It has been demonstrated that there is a causative relationship between different interleukins and cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal M Kassem
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Mahboob Ali
- Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Nour-Eddine Rhaleb
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Physiology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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5
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Borish L. The immunology of asthma: Asthma phenotypes and their implications for personalized treatment. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2017; 117:108-14. [PMID: 27499537 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Revised: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review current thinking regarding the role of personalized phenotype-driven as opposed to broad guideline-based therapies in asthma and to speculate on the relative contributions of innate (lung) and adaptive (T and B lymphocyte) roles in asthma pathogenesis. DATA SOURCES PubMed literature review. STUDY SELECTIONS Articles pertaining to asthma pathogenesis, with emphasis on those that included biotherapeutic interventions. RESULTS Current methods allow asthma to be divided into phenotypes characterized by the presence or absence of eosinophilic inflammation. Corticosteroids are likely to be only effective in the context of eosinophilic inflammation. Similarly, interventions with biotherapeutic agents currently available or in development have efficacious only when administered to patients with asthma of relevant phenotypes. CONCLUSION The availability of biotherapeutic agents that target IgE, interleukin (IL) 5, and, in the near future, IL-13 is an exciting vindication of molecular medicine. However, these biotherapeutic agents are only effective when targeted to patients with specific asthma phenotypes. In Promising biotherapeutic targets are the airway epithelial-derived cytokines IL-25, IL-33, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin. Targeting these lung epithelial-derived mediators, instead of products of the adaptive immune system, may be more likely to improve day-to-day asthma symptoms in contrast to agents that target the adaptive immune system, approaches that primarily act to ameliorate asthma exacerbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry Borish
- Asthma and Allergic Disease Center, Carter Immunology Center, Departments of Medicine and Microbiology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia.
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Santini G, Mores N, Malerba M, Mondino C, Anzivino R, Macis G, Montuschi P. Dupilumab for the treatment of asthma. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2017; 26:357-366. [PMID: 28085503 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2017.1282458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dupilumab (REGN668/SAR231893), produced by a collaboration between Regeneron and Sanofi, is a monoclonal antibody currently in phase III for moderate-to-severe asthma. Dupilumab is directed against the α-subunit of the interleukin (IL)-4 receptor and blocks the IL-4 and IL-13 signal transduction. Areas covered: Pathophysiological role of IL-4 and IL-13 in asthma; mechanism of action of dupilumab; pharmacology of IL-4 receptor; phase I and phase II studies with dupilumab; regulatory affairs. Expert opinion: Patients with severe asthma who are not sufficiently controlled with standard-of-care represent the target asthma population for dupilumab. If confirmed, efficacy of dupilumab in both eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic severe asthma phenotype might represent an advantage over approved biologics for asthma, including omalizumab, mepolizumab, and reslizumab. Head-to-head studies to compare dupilumab versus other biologics with different mechanism of action are required. Pediatric studies with dupilumab are currently lacking and should be undertaken to assess efficacy and safety of this drug in children with severe asthma. The lack of preclinical data and published results of the completed four phase I studies precludes a complete assessment of the pharmacological profile of dupilumab. Dupilumab seems to be generally well tolerated, but large studies are required to establish its long-term safety and tolerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Santini
- a Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, University Hospital Agostino Gemelli Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - Nadia Mores
- a Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, University Hospital Agostino Gemelli Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - Mario Malerba
- b Department of Internal Medicine , University of Brescia , Brescia , Italy
| | - Chiara Mondino
- c Department of Allergology , 'Bellinzona e Valli' Hospital , Bellinzona , Switzerland
| | - Roberta Anzivino
- d Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine , Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, University Hospital Agostino Gemelli Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - Giuseppe Macis
- e Department of Radiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine , Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, University Hospital Agostino Gemelli Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - Paolo Montuschi
- a Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, University Hospital Agostino Gemelli Foundation , Rome , Italy
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Halwani R, Sultana Shaik A, Ratemi E, Afzal S, Kenana R, Al-Muhsen S, Al Faraj A. A novel anti-IL4Rα nanoparticle efficiently controls lung inflammation during asthma. Exp Mol Med 2016; 48:e262. [PMID: 27713399 PMCID: PMC5099422 DOI: 10.1038/emm.2016.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Revised: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance and the harmful side effects accompanying the prolonged corticosteroid treatment of chronic pulmonary diseases prompted the development of more specific anti-inflammatory approaches. Several strategies aiming to block IL4Rα, the receptor for a key pro-inflammatory pathway, were investigated. However, their efficiency was limited, mostly due to the systemic or subcutaneous route of administrations. In this paper, we examined the ability of an intranasal treatment with biocompatible nanoparticles targeting IL4Rα to control lung inflammation in ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mice. OVA-sensitized mice were treated with anti-IL4Rα-conjugated nanoparticles. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the lungs and broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were determined using a cytokine array assay. The effects of nanoparticle treatment on the activation of lung inflammatory cells and their ability to proliferate and produce cytokines were determined using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis. Lung inflammation was also monitored using immunohistochemical staining. Treatment with the anti-IL4Rα nanoparticles significantly decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and release in BALF and airway lung tissue in mice. The numbers of lung tissue lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils were also decreased. Interestingly, anti-IL4Rα nanoparticles deactivated CD4 and CD8 T cells in lung tissue and inhibited their ability to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines to a significantly lower level than the treatment with free anti-IL4Rα. Moreover, they induced a sustained low level of lung inflammation for 1 week following the last instillation compared with the treatment with free anti-IL4Rα antibodies. Together, this data suggested that the enhanced tissue penetrability and sustainability of these nanoparticles improved the strength and durability of the immunosuppressive effects of anti-IL4Rα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabih Halwani
- Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Sultana Shaik
- Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Prince Naif Health Research Center, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elaref Ratemi
- Jubail Industrial College, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology, Jubail Industrial City, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sibtain Afzal
- Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rosan Kenana
- Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Prince Naif Health Research Center, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Al-Muhsen
- Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Achraf Al Faraj
- Department of Radiological Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Al Faraj A, Shaik AS, Afzal S, Al-Muhsen S, Halwani R. Specific targeting and noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging of an asthma biomarker in the lung using polyethylene glycol functionalized magnetic nanocarriers. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2015; 11:172-83. [PMID: 26708935 DOI: 10.1002/cmmi.1678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Simultaneous inhibition of IL4 and IL13 via the common receptor chain IL4Rα to block adequately their biologic effects presents a promising therapeutic approach to give the additional relief required for asthma patients. In this study, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were conjugated with anti-IL4Rα blocking antibodies via polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymers. The delivery of these blocking antibodies to the inflammatory sites in the lung via the developed nanocarriers was assessed using noninvasive free-breathing pulmonary MRI. Biocompatibility assays confirmed the safety of the developed nanocarriers for pre-clinical investigations. For all the investigated formulations, nanocarriers were found to be very stable at neutral pH. However, the stability noticeably decreased with the PEG length in acidic environment and thus the loaded antibodies were preferentially released. Immunofluorescence and fluorimetry assays confirmed the binding of the nanocarriers to the IL4Rα asthma biomarker. Pulmonary MRI performed using an ultra-short echo time sequence allowed simultaneous noninvasive monitoring of inflammatory responses induced by ovalbumin challenge and tracking of the developed nanocarriers, which were found to colocalize with the inflammatory sites in the lung. Targeting of the developed nanocarriers to areas rich in IL4Rα positive inflammatory cells was confirmed using histological and flow cytometry analyses. The anti-IL4Rα-conjugated nanocarriers developed here have been confirmed to be efficient in targeting key inflammatory cells during chronic lung inflammation following intrapulmonary administration. Targeting efficiency was monitored using noninvasive MRI, allowing detection of the nanocarriers' colocalizations with the inflammatory sites in the lung of ovalbumin-challenged asthmatic mice. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achraf Al Faraj
- King Saud University, Department of Radiological Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Sultana Shaik
- King Saud University, Prince Naif Health Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,King Saud University, Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sibtain Afzal
- King Saud University, Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Al-Muhsen
- King Saud University, Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabih Halwani
- King Saud University, Prince Naif Center for Immunology Research and Asthma Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Kumar RK, Foster PS, Rosenberg HF. Respiratory viral infection, epithelial cytokines, and innate lymphoid cells in asthma exacerbations. J Leukoc Biol 2014; 96:391-6. [PMID: 24904000 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.3ri0314-129r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Exacerbations of asthma are most commonly triggered by viral infections, which amplify allergic inflammation. Cytokines released by virus-infected AECs may be important in driving this response. This review focuses on accumulating evidence in support of a role for epithelial cytokines, including IL-33, IL-25, and TSLP, as well as their targets, type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), in the pathogenesis of virus-induced asthma exacerbations. Production and release of these cytokines lead to recruitment and activation of ILC2s, which secrete mediators, including IL-5 and IL-13, which augment allergic inflammation. However, little information is currently available about the induction of these responses by the respiratory viruses that are strongly associated with exacerbations of asthma, such as rhinoviruses. Further human studies, as well as improved animal experimental models, are needed to investigate appropriately the pathogenetic mechanisms in virus-induced exacerbations of asthma, including the role of ILCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh K Kumar
- Department of Pathology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia;
| | - Paul S Foster
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Disease, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Callaghan, Australia; and
| | - Helene F Rosenberg
- Inflammation Immunobiology Section, Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Agrawal S, Townley RG. Role of periostin, FENO, IL-13, lebrikzumab, other IL-13 antagonist and dual IL-4/IL-13 antagonist in asthma. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2013; 14:165-81. [PMID: 24283478 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2014.859673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asthma markedly diminishes quality of life due to limited activity, absences from work or school and hospitalizations. Patients with severe asthma which are not controlled despite taking effective therapy are most in need of new treatment approaches. IL-13 was demonstrated as 'central mediator of allergic asthma'. AREAS COVERED IL-13 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and COPD. IL-13 levels in the sputum and bronchial biopsy samples remain elevated in severe asthma despite the use of inhaled and systemic corticosteroids. Thus, IL-13 is a mediator involved in corticosteroid resistance. Periostin enhances profibrotic TGF-β signaling in subepithelial fibrosis associated with asthma. IL-13 induces bronchial epithelial cells to secrete periostin. Periostin may be a biomarker for Th2 induced airway inflammation. Lebrikizumab is a monoclonal antibody against IL-13. Lebrikizumab improved lung function in asthmatics who were symptomatic despite treatment with long acting beta agonist and inhaled corticosteroids and provided benefit in the treatment of severe uncontrolled asthma. EXPERT OPINION Lebrikizumab block IL-13 signaling through the IL-13Rα1/IL-4Rα receptor. There was a larger reduction in FENO in the high periostin subgroup than in the low periostin subgroup (34.4 vs 4.3%). Serum CCL17, CCL13 and total IgE levels decreased in the lebrikizumab group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Agrawal
- Creighton University, Internal Medicine/Allergy , 601 N 30th Street, Omaha, NE 68131 , USA
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Kasaian MT, Marquette K, Fish S, DeClercq C, Agostinelli R, Cook TA, Brennan A, Lee J, Fitz L, Brooks J, Vugmeyster Y, Williams CMM, Lofquist A, Tchistiakova L. An IL-4/IL-13 dual antagonist reduces lung inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and IgE production in mice. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2013; 49:37-46. [PMID: 23449738 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2012-0500oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
IL-4 and IL-13 comprise promising targets for therapeutic interventions in asthma and other Th2-associated diseases, but agents targeting either IL-4 or IL-13 alone have shown limited efficacy in human clinical studies. Because these cytokines may involve redundant function, dual targeting holds promise for achieving greater efficacy. We describe a bifunctional therapeutic targeting IL-4 and IL-13, developed by a combination of specific binding domains. IL-4-targeted and IL-13-targeted single chain variable fragments were joined in an optimal configuration, using appropriate linker regions on a novel protein scaffold. The bifunctional IL-4/IL-13 antagonist displayed high affinity for both cytokines. It was a potent and efficient neutralizer of both murine IL-4 and murine IL-13 bioactivity in cytokine-responsive Ba/F3 cells, and exhibited a half-life of approximately 4.7 days in mice. In a murine model of ovalbumin-induced ear swelling, the bifunctional molecule blocked both the IL-4/IL-13-dependent early-phase response and the IL-4-dependent late-phase response. In the ovalbumin-induced lung inflammation model, the bifunctional IL-4/IL-13 antagonist reduced the IL-4-dependent rise in serum IgE titers, and reduced IL-13-dependent airway hyperresponsiveness, lung inflammation, mucin gene expression, and serum chitinase responses. Taken together, these findings demonstrate the effective dual blockade of IL-4 and IL-13 with a single agent, which resulted in the modulation of a more extensive range of endpoints than could be achieved by targeting either cytokine alone.
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Interleukin-33 drives activation of alveolar macrophages and airway inflammation in a mouse model of acute exacerbation of chronic asthma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:250938. [PMID: 23936781 PMCID: PMC3722780 DOI: 10.1155/2013/250938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Revised: 04/23/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the role of interleukin-33 (IL-33) in airway inflammation in an experimental model of an acute exacerbation of chronic asthma, which reproduces many of the features of the human disease. Systemically sensitized female BALB/c mice were challenged with a low mass concentration of aerosolized ovalbumin for 4 weeks to induce chronic asthmatic inflammation and then received a single moderate-level challenge to trigger acute airway inflammation simulating an asthmatic exacerbation. The inflammatory response and expression of cytokines and activation markers by alveolar macrophages (AM) were assessed, as was the effect of pretreatment with a neutralizing antibody to IL-33. Compared to chronically challenged mice, AM from an acute exacerbation exhibited significantly enhanced expression of markers of alternative activation, together with enhanced expression of proinflammatory cytokines and of cell surface proteins associated with antigen presentation. In parallel, there was markedly increased expression of both mRNA and immunoreactivity for IL-33 in the airways. Neutralization of IL-33 significantly decreased both airway inflammation and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines by AM. Collectively, these data indicate that in this model of an acute exacerbation of chronic asthma, IL-33 drives activation of AM and has an important role in the pathogenesis of airway inflammation.
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Duppatla V, Gjorgjevikj M, Schmitz W, Kottmair M, Mueller TD, Sebald W. Enzymatic deglutathionylation to generate interleukin-4 cysteine muteins with free thiol. Bioconjug Chem 2012; 23:1396-405. [PMID: 22681442 DOI: 10.1021/bc2004389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a prototypical regulator protein of the immune system that is crucial for the pathogenesis and maintenance of asthma and other atopic diseases. It, together with IL-13, uses the IL-4 receptor α chain (IL-4Rα) to signal into immune and other cells. An IL-4 mutein acting as a dual IL-4/IL-13 receptor antagonist is in clinical development. Here, it is described how IL-4 muteins containing a single engineered cysteine with a free thiol can be prepared and used for site-specific chemical modification. The muteins were initially expressed in E. coli, refolded, and purified, but not in a fully reduced nonconjugated form. Attempts to reduce the cysteine chemically failed because the native disulfide bonds of IL-4 were also reduced under similar conditions. Therefore, an enzymatic procedure was developed to reduce glutathionylated IL-4 cysteine muteins employing glutaredoxin and reduced glutathione. Cysteine muteins engineered at four different positions around the IL-4Rα binding site were enzymatically reduced at different rates. All muteins were prepared with free thiol in reasonable yield and were modified by N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) or maleimido-PEG. The effect on IL-4Rα binding of cysteine substitution and of the site-specific modification by glutathione, N-ethylmaleimide (NEM), or a branched 2.36 kDa poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viswanadham Duppatla
- Lehrstuhl für Physiologische Chemie II, Theodor-Boveri-Institut für Biowissenschaften (Biozentrum) der Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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14
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Mullane K. Asthma translational medicine: report card. Biochem Pharmacol 2011; 82:567-85. [PMID: 21741955 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2011.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Revised: 06/23/2011] [Accepted: 06/24/2011] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Over the last 30 years, scientific research into asthma has focused almost exclusively on one component of the disorder - airway inflammation - as being the key underlying feature. These studies have provided a remarkably detailed and comprehensive picture of the events following antigen challenge that lead to an influx of T cells and eosinophils in the airways. Indeed, in basic research, even the term "asthma" has become synonymous with a T helper 2 cell-mediated disorder. From this cascade of cellular activation processes and mediators that have been identified it has been possible to pinpoint critical junctures for therapeutic intervention, leading experimentalists to produce therapies that are very effective in decreasing airway inflammation in animal models. Many of these compounds have now completed early Phase 2 "proof-of-concept" clinical trials so the translational success of the basic research model can be evaluated. This commentary discusses clinical results from 39 compounds and biologics acting at 23 different targets, and while 6 of these drugs can be regarded as a qualified success, none benefit the bulk of asthma sufferers. Despite this disappointing rate of success, the same immune paradigm and basic research models, with a few embellishments to incorporate newly identified cells and mediators, continue to drive target identification and drug discovery efforts. It is time to re-evaluate the focus of these efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Mullane
- Profectus Pharma Consulting, Inc, San Jose, CA 95125, United States.
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15
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Holmes AM, Solari R, Holgate ST. Animal models of asthma: value, limitations and opportunities for alternative approaches. Drug Discov Today 2011; 16:659-70. [PMID: 21723955 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2011.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Revised: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 05/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Asthma remains an area of considerable unmet medical need. Few new drugs have made it to the clinic during the past 50 years, with many that perform well in preclinical animal models of asthma, failing in humans owing to lack of safety and efficacy. The failure to translate promising drug candidates from animal models to humans has led to questions about the utility of in vivo studies and to demand for more predictive models and tools based on the latest technologies. Following a workshop with experts from academia and the pharmaceutical industry, we suggest here a disease modelling framework designed to better understand human asthma, and accelerate the development of safe and efficacious new asthma drugs that go beyond symptomatic relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M Holmes
- National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research, 20 Park Crescent, London, W1B 1AL, UK.
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16
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Orihara K, Dil N, Anaparti V, Moqbel R. What's new in asthma pathophysiology and immunopathology? Expert Rev Respir Med 2011; 4:605-29. [PMID: 20923340 DOI: 10.1586/ers.10.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Research on asthma pathophysiology over the past decade has expanded the complex repertoire involved in the pathophysiology of asthma to include inflammatory, immune and structural cells, as well as a wide range of mediators. Studies have identified a role for connective and other mesenchymal tissues involved in airway remodeling. Recent findings have implicated the innate immune response in asthma and have revealed interesting patterns of interaction between the innate and adaptive immune response and the associated complex chronic inflammatory reaction. New immune cell populations have also been added to this repertoire, including Tregs, natural killer T cells and Th17 cells. The role of the eosinophil, a prominent pathological feature in most asthma phenotypes, has also been expanding to include roles such as tissue modifiers and immune regulators via a number of fascinating and hitherto unexplored mechanistic pathways. In addition, new and significant roles have been proposed for airway smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, epithelial and endothelial cells. Tissue remodeling is now considered an integral element of asthma pathophysiology. Finally, an intricate network of mediators, released from both immune and inflammatory cells, including thymus stromal lymphopoietin and matrix metalloproteinases, have added to the complex milieu of asthma immunity and inflammation. These findings have implications for therapy and the search for novel strategies towards better disease management. Sadly, and perhaps due to the complex nature of asthma, advances in therapeutic discoveries and developments have been limited. Thus, understanding the precise roles played by the numerous dramatis personae in this odyssey, both individually and collectively within the context of asthma pathophysiology, continues to pose new challenges. It is clear that the next stage in this saga is to embark on studies that transcend reductionist approaches to involve system analysis of the complex and multiple variables involved in asthma, including the need to narrow down the phenotypes of this condition based on careful analysis of the organs (lung and airways), cells, mediators and other factors involved in bronchial asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanami Orihara
- Department of Immunology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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