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Cao S, Jiang J, Yin H, Wang L, Lu Q. Abnormal energy metabolism in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 134:112149. [PMID: 38692019 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a severe autoimmune disease with significant socioeconomic impact worldwide. Orderly energy metabolism is essential for normal immune function, and disordered energy metabolism is increasingly recognized as an important contributor to the pathogenesis of SLE. Disorders of energy metabolism are characterized by increased reactive oxygen species, ATP deficiency, and abnormal metabolic pathways. Oxygen and mitochondria are critical for the production of ATP, and both mitochondrial dysfunction and hypoxia affect the energy production processes. In addition, several signaling pathways, including mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling and the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway also play important regulatory roles in energy metabolism. Furthermore, drugs with clear clinical effects on SLE, such as sirolimus, metformin, and tacrolimus, have been proven to improve the disordered energy metabolism of immune cells, suggesting the potential of targeting energy metabolism for the treatment of SLE. Moreover, several metabolic modulators under investigation are expected to have potential therapeutic effects in SLE. This review aimed to gain insights into the role and mechanism of abnormal energy metabolism in the pathogenesis of SLE, and summarizes the progression of metabolic modulator in the treatment of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumei Cao
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, 210042, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiao Jiang
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Haoyuan Yin
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, 210042, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Lai Wang
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, 210042, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China.
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, 210042, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, China.
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Wang J, Ni R, Jiang T, Peng D, Ming Y, Cui H, Liu Y. The applications of functional materials-based nano-formulations in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of chronic inflammation-related diseases. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1222642. [PMID: 37593176 PMCID: PMC10427346 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1222642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation, in general, refers to systemic immune abnormalities most often caused by the environment or lifestyle, which is the basis for various skin diseases, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, liver diseases, digestive diseases, cancer, and so on. Therapeutic strategies have focused on immunosuppression and anti-inflammation, but conventional approaches have been poor in enhancing the substantive therapeutic effect of drugs. Nanomaterials continue to attract attention for their high flexibility, durability and simplicity of preparation, as well as high profitability. Nanotechnology is used in various areas of clinical medicine, such as medical diagnosis, monitoring and treatment. However, some related problems cannot be ignored, including various cytotoxic and worsening inflammation caused by the nanomaterials themselves. This paper provides an overview of functional nanomaterial formulations for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of chronic inflammation-related diseases, with the intention of providing some reference for the enhancement and optimization of existing therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Wang
- Department of pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Ni
- Department of pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- Department of pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dan Peng
- Department of pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Ming
- Department of pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yao Liu
- Department of pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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3
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Epigenetic regulation of B cells and its role in autoimmune pathogenesis. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:1215-1234. [PMID: 36220996 PMCID: PMC9622816 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-022-00933-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
B cells play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Although previous studies have shown many genetic polymorphisms associated with B-cell activation in patients with various autoimmune disorders, progress in epigenetic research has revealed new mechanisms leading to B-cell hyperactivation. Epigenetic mechanisms, including those involving histone modifications, DNA methylation, and noncoding RNAs, regulate B-cell responses, and their dysregulation can contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Patients with autoimmune diseases show epigenetic alterations that lead to the initiation and perpetuation of autoimmune inflammation. Moreover, many clinical and animal model studies have shown the promising potential of epigenetic therapies for patients. In this review, we present an up-to-date overview of epigenetic mechanisms with a focus on their roles in regulating functional B-cell subsets. Furthermore, we discuss epigenetic dysregulation in B cells and highlight its contribution to the development of autoimmune diseases. Based on clinical and preclinical evidence, we discuss novel epigenetic biomarkers and therapies for patients with autoimmune disorders.
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Li H, Boulougoura A, Endo Y, Tsokos GC. Abnormalities of T cells in systemic lupus erythematosus: new insights in pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. J Autoimmun 2022; 132:102870. [PMID: 35872102 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2022.102870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by loss of immune tolerance and sustained production of autoantibodies. Multiple and profound T cell abnormalities in SLE are intertwined with disease expression. Both numerical and functional disturbances have been reported in main CD4+ T helper cell subsets including Th1, Th2, Th17, regulatory, and follicular helper cells. SLE CD4+ T cells are known to provide help to B cells, produce excessive IL-17 but insufficient IL-2, and infiltrate tissues. In the absence of sufficient amounts of IL-2, regulatory T cells, do not function properly to constrain inflammation. A complicated series of early signaling defects and aberrant activation of kinases and phosphatases result in complex cell phenotypes by altering the metabolic profile and the epigenetic landscape. All main metabolic pathways including glycolysis, glutaminolysis and oxidative phosphorylation are altered in T cells from lupus prone mice and patients with SLE. SLE CD8+ cytotoxic T cells display reduced cytolytic activity which accounts for higher rates of infection and the sustenance of autoimmunity. Further, CD8+ T cells in the context of rheumatic diseases lose the expression of CD8, acquire IL-17+CD4-CD8- double negative T (DNT) cell phenotype and infiltrate tissues. Herein we present an update on these T cell abnormalities along with underlying mechanisms and discuss how these advances can be exploited therapeutically. Novel strategies to correct these aberrations in T cells show promise for SLE treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Afroditi Boulougoura
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yushiro Endo
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Mei X, Jin H, Zhao M, Lu Q. Association of Immune-Related Genetic and Epigenetic Alterations with Lupus Nephritis. KIDNEY DISEASES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 8:286-296. [PMID: 36157263 PMCID: PMC9386430 DOI: 10.1159/000524937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The familial clustering phenomenon together with environmental influences indicates the presence of a genetic and epigenetic predisposition to systematic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Interestingly, regarding lupus nephritis (LN), the worst complication of SLE, mortality, and morbidity were not consistent with SLE in relation to sexuality and ethnicity. SUMMARY Genetic and epigenetic alterations in LN include genes and noncoding RNAs that are involved in antigen-presenting, complements, immune cell infiltration, interferon pathways, and so on. Once genetic or epigenetic change occurs alone or simultaneously, they will promote the formation of immune complexes with autoantibodies that target various autoantigens, which results in inflammatory cytokines and autoreactive immune cells colonizing renal tissues and contributing to LN. KEY MESSAGES Making additional checks for immunopathology-related heredity and epigenetic factors may lead to a more holistic perspective of LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaole Mei
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immunological Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Hui Jin
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immunological Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
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6
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Muñoz-Urbano M, Quintero-González DC, Vasquez G. T cell metabolism and possible therapeutic targets in systemic lupus erythematosus: a narrative review. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2022; 44:457-470. [PMID: 35352607 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2022.2055568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In the immunopathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), there is a dysregulation of specific immune cells, including T cells. The metabolic reprogramming in T cells causes different effects. Metabolic programs are critical checkpoints in immune responses and are involved in the etiology of autoimmune disease. For instance, resting lymphocytes generate energy through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and fatty acid oxidation (FAO), whereas activated lymphocytes rapidly shift to the glycolytic pathway. Specifically, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, abnormal metabolism (including glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism), and mTOR signaling are hallmarks of T lymphocyte metabolic dysfunction in SLE. Herein it is summarized how metabolic defects contribute to T cell responses in SLE, and some epigenetic alterations involved in the disease. Finally, it is shown how metabolic defects could be modified therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gloria Vasquez
- Rheumatology Section, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.,Grupo de Inmunología Celular e Inmunogenética, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
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Adams DE, Shao WH. Epigenetic Alterations in Immune Cells of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Therapeutic Implications. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030506. [PMID: 35159315 PMCID: PMC8834103 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder that is characterized by autoantibody production and dysregulated immune cell activation. Although the exact etiology of SLE remains unknown, genetic, hormonal, and complex environmental factors are known to be critical for pathologic immune activation. In addition to the inherited genetic predisposition, epigenetic processes that do not change the genomic code, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and noncoding RNAs are increasingly appreciated to play important roles in lupus pathogenesis. We herein focus on the up-to-date findings of lupus-associated epigenetic alterations and their pathophysiology in lupus development. We also summarize the therapeutic potential of the new findings. It is likely that advances in the epigenetic study will help to predict individual disease outcomes, promise diagnostic accuracy, and design new target-directed immunotherapies.
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8
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Liu J, Wang Y, Zhang G, Liu L, Peng X. Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals Changes in the Intestinal Microbiome, Transcriptome, and Methylome in a Rat Model of Chronic Non-bacterial Prostatitis: Indications for the Existence of the Gut-Prostate Axis. Front Physiol 2022; 12:753034. [PMID: 35087414 PMCID: PMC8787367 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.753034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic non-bacterial prostatitis (CNP) is one of the most prevalent diseases in human males worldwide. In 2005, the prostate-gut axis was first proposed to indicate the close relationship between the prostate and the intestine. This study investigated CNP-induced changes of the gut microbiota, gene expression and DNA methylation in a rat model by using multi-omics analysis. Firstly, 16S rDNA sequencing presented an altered structure of the microbiota in cecum of CNP rats. Then, transcriptomic analysis revealed that the expression of 185 genes in intestinal epithelium was significantly changed by CNP. These changes can participate in the immune system, digestive system, metabolic process, etc. Finally, methylC-capture sequencing (MCC-Seq) found 73,232 differentially methylated sites (DMSs) in the DNA of intestinal epithelium between control and CNP rats. A combined analysis of methylomics and transcriptomics suggested an epigenetic mechanism for CNP-induced differential expression genes correlated with intestinal barrier function, immunity, metabolism, enteric infectious disease, etc. More importantly, the transcriptomic, methylomic and gut microbial changes were highly correlated with multiple processes including intestinal immunity, metabolism and epithelial barrier function. In this study, disrupted homeostasis in the gut microbiota, gene expression and DNA methylation were reported in CNP, which supports the existence of the gut-prostate axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junsheng Liu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Yihe Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Guangwen Zhang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xichun Peng
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Fava A, Rao DA. Cellular and molecular heterogeneity in systemic lupus erythematosus. Semin Immunol 2021; 58:101653. [PMID: 36184357 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Fava
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Deepak A Rao
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, Immunity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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10
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A Variant of sNASP Exacerbates Lymphocyte Subset Disorder and Nephritis in a Spontaneous Lupus Model Sle1.Yaa Mouse. Mediators Inflamm 2021; 2021:8175863. [PMID: 34720750 PMCID: PMC8553485 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8175863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A variant of somatic nuclear autoantigenic sperm protein (sNASP) was identified from the murine lupus susceptibility locus Sle2c1 by whole exome sequencing (WES). Previous studies have shown that mutant sNASP could synergize with the Faslpr mutation in exacerbating autoimmunity and aggravating end-organ inflammation. In the current study, the sNASP mutation was introduced into Sle1.Yaa mice to detect whether it has a synergistic effect with Sle1 or Yaa loci. As expected, compared with Sle1.Yaa mice, Sle1.Yaa.ΔsNASP mice showed enlarged lymph nodes, aggravated renal inflammation, and shortened survival time. The proportions of CD3+ T cells, activated CD19+CD86+ B cells, Th1 cells in the spleen and lymph nodes, and Th17 cells in lymph nodes in Sle1.Yaa.ΔsNASP mice were increased compared to those in Sle1.Yaa mice. The levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α in the serum of Sle1.Yaa.ΔsNASP mice were higher than those of Sle1.Yaa mice. The above results show that mutant sNASP can interact with different lupus susceptibility genes and promote the disease process of systemic lupus erythematosus.
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11
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Contribution of Dysregulated DNA Methylation to Autoimmunity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111892. [PMID: 34769338 PMCID: PMC8584328 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs are known regulators of gene expression and genomic stability in cell growth, development, and differentiation. Because epigenetic mechanisms can regulate several immune system elements, epigenetic alterations have been found in several autoimmune diseases. The purpose of this review is to discuss the epigenetic modifications, mainly DNA methylation, involved in autoimmune diseases in which T cells play a significant role. For example, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus display differential gene methylation, mostly hypomethylated 5′-C-phosphate-G-3′ (CpG) sites that may associate with disease activity. However, a clear association between DNA methylation, gene expression, and disease pathogenesis must be demonstrated. A better understanding of the impact of epigenetic modifications on the onset of autoimmunity will contribute to the design of novel therapeutic approaches for these diseases.
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12
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Zeng J, Aryal RP, Stavenhagen K, Luo C, Liu R, Wang X, Chen J, Li H, Matsumoto Y, Wang Y, Wang J, Ju T, Cummings RD. Cosmc deficiency causes spontaneous autoimmunity by breaking B cell tolerance. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabg9118. [PMID: 34613773 PMCID: PMC8494437 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abg9118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Factors regulating the induction and development of B cell–mediated autoimmunity are not well understood. Here, we report that targeted deletion in murine B cells of X-linked Cosmc, encoding the chaperone required for expression of core 1 O-glycans, causes the spontaneous development of autoimmune pathologies due to a breakdown of B cell tolerance. BC-CosmcKO mice display multiple phenotypic abnormalities, including severe weight loss, ocular manifestations, lymphadenopathy, and increased female-associated mortality. Disruption of B cell tolerance in BC-CosmcKO mice is manifested as elevated self-reactive IgM and IgG autoantibodies. Cosmc-deficient B cells exhibit enhanced basal activation and responsiveness to stimuli. There is also an elevated frequency of spontaneous germinal center B cells in BC-CosmcKO mice. Mechanistically, loss of Cosmc confers enhanced B cell receptor (BCR) signaling through diminished BCR internalization. The results demonstrate that Cosmc, through control of core 1 O-glycans, is a previously unidentified immune checkpoint gene in maintaining B cell tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwei Zeng
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rajindra P. Aryal
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kathrin Stavenhagen
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chi Luo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Renyan Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jiaxuan Chen
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yasuyuki Matsumoto
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yingchun Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jianmei Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tongzhong Ju
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Richard D. Cummings
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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13
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Li H, Tsokos MG, Bhargava R, Adamopoulos IE, Menn-Josephy H, Stillman IE, Rosenstiel P, Jordan J, Tsokos GC. IL-23 reshapes kidney resident cell metabolism and promotes local kidney inflammation. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:142428. [PMID: 33956666 DOI: 10.1172/jci142428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Interstitial kidney inflammation is present in various nephritides in which serum interleukin 23 (IL-23) is elevated. Here we showed that murine and human renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) expressing the IL-23 receptor (IL-23R) responded to IL-23 by inducing intracellular calcium flux, enhancing glycolysis, and upregulating calcium/calmodulin kinase IV (CaMK4), which resulted in suppression of the expression of the arginine-degrading enzyme arginase 1 (ARG1), thus increasing in situ levels of free L-arginine. Limited availability of arginine suppressed the ability of infiltrating T cells to proliferate and produce inflammatory cytokines. TECs from humans and mice with nephritis expressed increased levels of IL-23R and CaMK4 but reduced levels of ARG1. TEC-specific deletion of Il23r or Camk4 suppressed inflammation, whereas deletion of Arg1 exacerbated inflammation in different murine disease models. Finally, TEC-specific delivery of a CaMK4 inhibitor specifically curbed renal inflammation in lupus-prone mice without affecting systemic inflammation. Our data offer the first evidence to our knowledge of the immunosuppressive capacity of TECs through a mechanism that involves competitive uptake of arginine and signify the importance of modulation of an inflammatory cytokine in the function of nonlymphoid cells, which leads to the establishment of an inflammatory microenvironment. New approaches to treat kidney inflammation should consider restoring the immunosuppressive capacity of TECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maria G Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rhea Bhargava
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Iannis E Adamopoulos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hanni Menn-Josephy
- Department of Medicine, Renal Section, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Isaac E Stillman
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Philip Rosenstiel
- Institute of Clinical Molecular Biology, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jarrat Jordan
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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14
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Horwitz DA, Bickerton S, La Cava A. Strategies to Use Nanoparticles to Generate CD4 and CD8 Regulatory T Cells for the Treatment of SLE and Other Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:681062. [PMID: 34211471 PMCID: PMC8239238 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.681062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are disorders of immune regulation where the mechanisms responsible for self-tolerance break down and pathologic T cells overcome the protective effects of T regulatory cells (Tregs) that normally control them. The result can be the initiation of chronic inflammatory diseases. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune diseases are generally treated with pharmacologic or biological agents that have broad suppressive effects. These agents can halt disease progression, yet rarely cure while carrying serious adverse side effects. Recently, nanoparticles have been engineered to correct homeostatic regulatory defects and regenerate therapeutic antigen-specific Tregs. Some approaches have used nanoparticles targeted to antigen presenting cells to switch their support from pathogenic T cells to protective Tregs. Others have used nanoparticles targeted directly to T cells for the induction and expansion of CD4+ and CD8+ Tregs. Some of these T cell targeted nanoparticles have been formulated to act as tolerogenic artificial antigen presenting cells. This article discusses the properties of these various nanoparticle formulations and the strategies to use them in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. The restoration and maintenance of Treg predominance over effector cells should promote long-term autoimmune disease remission and ultimately prevent them in susceptible individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Horwitz
- General Nanotherapeutics, LLC, Santa Monica, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Sean Bickerton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Antonio La Cava
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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15
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Emerson AE, Slaby EM, Hiremath SC, Weaver JD. Biomaterial-based approaches to engineering immune tolerance. Biomater Sci 2021; 8:7014-7032. [PMID: 33179649 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01171a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The development of biomaterial-based therapeutics to induce immune tolerance holds great promise for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, allergy, and graft rejection in transplantation. Historical approaches to treat these immunological challenges have primarily relied on systemic delivery of broadly-acting immunosuppressive agents that confer undesirable, off-target effects. The evolution and expansion of biomaterial platforms has proven to be a powerful tool in engineering immunotherapeutics and enabled a great diversity of novel and targeted approaches in engineering immune tolerance, with the potential to eliminate side effects associated with systemic, non-specific immunosuppressive approaches. In this review, we summarize the technological advances within three broad biomaterials-based strategies to engineering immune tolerance: nonspecific tolerogenic agent delivery, antigen-specific tolerogenic therapy, and the emergent area of tolerogenic cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Emerson
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.
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16
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Yi JZ, McGee JS. Epigenetic-modifying therapies: An emerging avenue for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases. Exp Dermatol 2021; 30:1167-1176. [PMID: 33752257 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications include DNA methylation, histone modification and the action of microRNAs. These mechanisms coordinate in complex networks to control gene expression, thereby regulating key physiological processes in the skin and immune system. Recently, researchers have turned to the epigenome to understand the pathogenesis of inflammatory skin diseases. In psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, epigenetic modifications contribute to key pathogenic events such as immune activation, T-cell polarization and keratinocyte dysfunction. These discoveries have introduced new possibilities for the treatment of skin diseases; unlike genetics, epigenetic alterations are readily modifiable and potentially reversible. In this viewpoint essay, we summarize the current state of epigenetic research in inflammatory skin diseases and propose that targeting the histone machinery is a promising avenue for the development of new therapies for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Expanding on the progress that has already been made in the field of cancer epigenetics, we discuss existing epigenetic-modifying tools that can be applied to the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases and consider future directions for investigation in order to allow for the widespread clinical application of such therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Z Yi
- Department of Dermatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jean S McGee
- Department of Dermatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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17
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW TCRαβ+CD4-CD8- double-negative T (DNT) cells, a principal subset of mature T lymphocytes, have been closely linked with autoimmune/inflammatory conditions. However, controversy persists regarding their ontogeny and function. Here, we present an overview on DNT cells in different autoimmune diseases to advance a deeper understanding of the contribution of this population to disease pathogenesis. RECENT FINDINGS DNT cells have been characterized in various chronic inflammatory diseases and they have been proposed to display pathogenic or regulatory function. The tissue location of DNT cells and the effector cytokines they produce bespeak to their active involvement in chronic inflammatory diseases. SUMMARY By producing various cytokines, expanded DNT cells in inflamed tissues contribute to the pathogenesis of a variety of autoimmune inflammatory diseases. However, it is unclear whether this population represents a stable lineage consisting of different subsets similar to CD4+ T helper cell subset. Better understanding of the possible heterogeneity and plasticity of DNT cells is needed to reveal interventional therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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18
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Landman S, van der Horst C, van Erp PEJ, Joosten I, de Vries R, Koenen HJPM. Immune responses to azacytidine in animal models of inflammatory disorders: a systematic review. J Transl Med 2021; 19:11. [PMID: 33407530 PMCID: PMC7788785 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02615-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory disorders like diabetes, systemic lupus erythematodes, inflammatory lung diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, but also rejection of transplanted organs and GvHD, form a major burden of disease. Current classes of immune suppressive drugs to treat these disorders are never curative and side effects are common. Therefore there is a need for new drugs with improved and more targeted modes of action. Potential candidates are the DNA methyl transferase inhibitor 5-azacytidine (Aza) and its derivative 5-aza 2′deoxycitidine (DAC). Aza and DAC have been tested in several pre-clinical in vivo studies. In order to obtain an overview of disorders for which Aza and/or DAC can be a potential treatment, and to find out where information is lacking, we systematically reviewed pre-clinical animal studies assessing Aza or DAC as a potential therapy for distinct inflammatory disorders. Also, study quality and risk of bias was systematically assessed. In the 35 identified studies, we show that both Aza and DAC do not only seem to be able to alleviate a number of inflammatory disorders, but also prevent solid organ rejection and GvHD in in vivo pre-clinical animal models. Aza/DAC are known to upregulate FOXP3, a master transcription factor for Treg, in vitro. Seventeen studies described the effect on Treg, of which 16 studies showed an increase in Treg. Increasing Treg therefore seems to be a common mechanism in preventing inflammatory disorders by Aza/DAC. We also found, however, that many essential methodological details were poorly reported leading to an unclear risk of bias. Therefore, reported effects might be an overestimation of the true effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sija Landman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine-Laboratory Medical Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Chiel van der Horst
- Department of Laboratory Medicine-Laboratory Medical Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Piet E J van Erp
- Department of Dermatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Irma Joosten
- Department of Laboratory Medicine-Laboratory Medical Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rob de Vries
- Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE), Department for Health Evidence, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans J P M Koenen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine-Laboratory Medical Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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19
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Coit P, Ortiz-Fernandez L, Lewis EE, McCune WJ, Maksimowicz-McKinnon K, Sawalha AH. A longitudinal and transancestral analysis of DNA methylation patterns and disease activity in lupus patients. JCI Insight 2020; 5:143654. [PMID: 33108347 PMCID: PMC7710270 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.143654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic dysregulation is implicated in the pathogenesis of lupus. We performed a longitudinal analysis to assess changes in DNA methylation in lupus neutrophils over 4 years of follow-up and across disease activity levels using 229 patient samples. We demonstrate that DNA methylation profiles in lupus are partly determined by ancestry-associated genetic variations and are highly stable over time. DNA methylation levels in 2 CpG sites correlated significantly with changes in lupus disease activity. Progressive demethylation in SNX18 was observed with increasing disease activity in African American patients. Importantly, demethylation of a CpG site located within GALNT18 was associated with the development of active lupus nephritis. Differentially methylated genes between African American and European American lupus patients include type I IFN-response genes such as IRF7 and IFI44, and genes related to the NF-κB pathway. TREML4, which plays a vital role in TLR signaling, was hypomethylated in African American patients and demonstrated a strong cis-methylation quantitative trait loci (cis-meQTL) effect among 8855 cis-meQTL associations identified in our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Coit
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Graduate Program in Immunology and
| | - Lourdes Ortiz-Fernandez
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Emily E. Lewis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - W. Joseph McCune
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Amr H. Sawalha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Lupus Center of Excellence, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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20
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Zouali M. DNA methylation signatures of autoimmune diseases in human B lymphocytes. Clin Immunol 2020; 222:108622. [PMID: 33188932 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2020.108622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
B lymphocytes play key roles in adaptive and innate immunity. In autoimmune diseases, their participation in disease instigation and/or progression has been demonstrated in both experimental models and clinical trials. Recent epigenetic investigations of human B lymphocyte subsets revealed the importance of DNA methylation in exquisitely regulating the cellular activation and differentiation programs. This review discusses recent advances on the potential of DNA methylation to shape events that impart generation of plasma cells and memory B cells, providing novel insight into homeostatic regulation of the immune system. In parallel, epigenetic profiling of B cells from patients with systemic or organo-specific autoimmune diseases disclosed distinctive differential methylation regions that, in some cases, could stratify patients from controls. Development of tools for editing DNA methylation in the mammalian genome could be useful for future functional studies of epigenetic regulation by offering the possibility to edit locus-specific methylation, with potential translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moncef Zouali
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, No. 91, Xueshi Road, North District, Taichung City, Taïwan 404, Taichung, Taiwan.
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21
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Scharer CD, Fortner KA, Dragon JA, Tighe S, Boss JM, Budd RC. Selective DNA Demethylation Accompanies T Cell Homeostatic Proliferation and Gene Regulation in Lupus-Prone lpr Mice. Immunohorizons 2020; 4:679-687. [PMID: 33097564 PMCID: PMC8141279 DOI: 10.4049/immunohorizons.2000078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by increased DNA demethylation in T cells, although it is unclear whether this occurs primarily in a subset of SLE T cells. The process driving the DNA demethylation and the consequences on overall gene expression are also poorly understood and whether this represents a secondary consequence of SLE or a primary contributing factor. Lupus-prone lpr mice accumulate large numbers of T cells with age because of a mutation in Fas (CD95). The accumulating T cells include an unusual population of CD4-CD8-TCR-αβ+ (DN) T cells that arise from CD8+ precursors and are also found in human SLE. We have previously observed that T cell accumulation in lpr mice is due to dysregulation of T cell homeostatic proliferation, which parallels an increased expression of numerous genes in the DN subset, including several proinflammatory molecules and checkpoint blockers. We thus determined the DNA methylome in lpr DN T cells compared with their CD8+ precursors. Our findings show that DN T cells manifest discrete sites of extensive demethylation throughout the genome, and these sites correspond to the location of a large proportion of the upregulated genes. Thus, dysregulated homeostatic proliferation in lpr mice and consequent epigenetic alterations may be a contributing factor to lupus pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Scharer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322;
| | - Karen A Fortner
- Vermont Center for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, VT 05405; and
| | - Julie A Dragon
- Vermont Integrative Genomics Resource, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, VT 05405
| | - Scott Tighe
- Vermont Integrative Genomics Resource, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, VT 05405
| | - Jeremy M Boss
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Ralph C Budd
- Vermont Center for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, VT 05405; and
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22
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Li H, Adamopoulos IE, Moulton VR, Stillman IE, Herbert Z, Moon JJ, Sharabi A, Krishfield S, Tsokos MG, Tsokos GC. Systemic lupus erythematosus favors the generation of IL-17 producing double negative T cells. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2859. [PMID: 32503973 PMCID: PMC7275084 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16636-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mature double negative (DN) T cells are a population of αβ T cells that lack CD4 and CD8 coreceptors and contribute to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The splenic marginal zone macrophages (MZMs) are important for establishing immune tolerance, and loss of their number or function contributes to the progression of SLE. Here we show that loss of MZMs impairs the tolerogenic clearance of apoptotic cells and alters the serum cytokine profile, which in turn provokes the generation of DN T cells from self-reactive CD8+ T cells. Increased Ki67 expression, narrowed TCR V-beta repertoire usage and diluted T-cell receptor excision circles confirm that DN T cells from lupus-prone mice and patients with SLE undergo clonal proliferation and expansion in a self-antigen dependent manner, which supports the shared mechanisms for their generation. Collectively, our results provide a link between the loss of MZMs and the expansion of DN T cells, and indicate possible strategies to prevent the development of SLE. Splenic marginal zone macrophages can establish immune tolerance and limit the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here the authors show that these cells do this by clearing apoptotic cells, and defects in these cells result in the generation of self-reactive double negative T cells that are known to contribute to SLE pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Iannis E Adamopoulos
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Vaishali R Moulton
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Isaac E Stillman
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Zach Herbert
- Molecular Biology Core Facilities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 21-27 Burlington Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - James J Moon
- Center for Immunology and inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Amir Sharabi
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Suzanne Krishfield
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria G Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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23
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Tsokos GC. Autoimmunity and organ damage in systemic lupus erythematosus. Nat Immunol 2020; 21:605-614. [PMID: 32367037 PMCID: PMC8135909 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-020-0677-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 280] [Impact Index Per Article: 70.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Impressive progress has been made over the last several years toward understanding how almost every aspect of the immune system contributes to the expression of systemic autoimmunity. In parallel, studies have shed light on the mechanisms that contribute to organ inflammation and damage. New approaches that address the complicated interaction between genetic variants, epigenetic processes, sex and the environment promise to enlighten the multitude of pathways that lead to what is clinically defined as systemic lupus erythematosus. It is expected that each patient owns a unique 'interactome', which will dictate specific treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
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24
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Protecting the kidney in systemic lupus erythematosus: from diagnosis to therapy. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:255-267. [PMID: 32203285 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-0401-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus that can lead to irreversible renal impairment. Although the prognosis of LN has improved substantially over the past 50 years, outcomes have plateaued in the USA in the past 20 years as immunosuppressive therapies have failed to reverse disease in more than half of treated patients. This failure might reflect disease complexity and heterogeneity, as well as social and economic barriers to health-care access that can delay intervention until after damage has already occurred. LN progression is still poorly understood and involves multiple cell types and both immune and non-immune mechanisms. Single-cell analysis of intrinsic renal cells and infiltrating cells from patients with LN is a new approach that will help to define the pathways of renal injury at a cellular level. Although many new immune-modulating therapies are being tested in the clinic, the development of therapies to improve regeneration of the injured kidney and to prevent fibrosis requires a better understanding of the mechanisms of LN progression. This mechanistic understanding, together with the development of clinical measures to evaluate risk and detect early disease and better access to expert health-care providers, should improve outcomes for patients with LN.
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25
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T cell metabolism: new insights in systemic lupus erythematosus pathogenesis and therapy. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:100-112. [PMID: 31949287 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-019-0356-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
T cell subsets are critically involved in the development of systemic autoimmunity and organ inflammation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Each T cell subset function (such as effector, helper, memory or regulatory function) is dictated by distinct metabolic pathways requiring the availability of specific nutrients and intracellular enzymes. The activity of these enzymes or nutrient transporters influences the differentiation and function of T cells in autoimmune responses. Data are increasingly emerging on how metabolic processes control the function of various T cell subsets and how these metabolic processes are altered in SLE. Specifically, aberrant glycolysis, glutaminolysis, fatty acid and glycosphingolipid metabolism, mitochondrial hyperpolarization, oxidative stress and mTOR signalling underwrite the known function of T cell subsets in patients with SLE. A number of medications that are used in the care of patients with SLE affect cell metabolism, and the development of novel therapeutic approaches to control the activity of metabolic enzymes in T cell subsets represents a promising endeavour in the search for effective treatment of systemic autoimmune diseases.
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26
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Godavarthy A, Kelly R, Jimah J, Beckford M, Caza T, Fernandez D, Huang N, Duarte M, Lewis J, Fadel HJ, Poeschla EM, Banki K, Perl A. Lupus-associated endogenous retroviral LTR polymorphism and epigenetic imprinting promote HRES-1/RAB4 expression and mTOR activation. JCI Insight 2020; 5:134010. [PMID: 31805010 PMCID: PMC7030820 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.134010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Overexpression and long terminal repeat (LTR) polymorphism of the HRES‑1/Rab4 human endogenous retrovirus locus have been associated with T cell activation and disease manifestations in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Although genomic DNA methylation is diminished overall in SLE, its role in HRES-1/Rab4 expression is unknown. Therefore, we determined how lupus-associated polymorphic rs451401 alleles of the LTR regulate transcription from the HRES-1/Rab4 promoter and thus affect T cell activation. The results showed that cytosine-119 is hypermethylated while cytosine-51 of the promoter and the LTR enhancer are hypomethylated in SLE. Pharmacologic or genetic inactivation of DNA methyltransferase 1 augmented the expression of HRES-1/Rab4. The minimal promoter was selectively recognized by metabolic stress sensor NRF1 when cytosine-119 but not cytosine-51 was methylated, and NRF1 stimulated HRES-1/Rab4 expression in human T cells. In turn, IRF2 and PSIP1 bound to the LTR enhancer and exerted control over HRES-1/Rab4 expression in rs451401 genotype- and methylation-dependent manners. The LTR enhancer conferred markedly greater expression of HRES-1/Rab4 in subjects with rs451401CC over rs451401GG alleles that in turn promoted mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) activation upon T cell receptor stimulation. HRES-1/Rab4 alone robustly activated mTOR in human T cells. These findings identify HRES-1/Rab4 as a methylation- and rs451401 allele-dependent transducer of environmental stress and controller of T cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan Kelly
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
| | - John Jimah
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
| | | | - Tiffany Caza
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and
| | - David Fernandez
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and
| | - Nick Huang
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, College of Medicine, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | | | - Joshua Lewis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
| | - Hind J. Fadel
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Eric M. Poeschla
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Katalin Banki
- Department of Pathology, State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, College of Medicine, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Andras Perl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, College of Medicine, Syracuse, New York, USA
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27
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Petralia MC, Mazzon E, Basile MS, Cutuli M, Di Marco R, Scandurra F, Saraceno A, Fagone P, Nicoletti F, Mangano K. Effects of Treatment with the Hypomethylating Agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine in Murine Type II Collagen-Induced Arthritis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:ph12040174. [PMID: 31783688 PMCID: PMC6958460 DOI: 10.3390/ph12040174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The emerging role of epigenetics in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases has recently attracted much interest on the possible use of epigenetic modulators for the prevention and treatment of these diseases. In particular, we and others have shown that drugs that inhibit DNA methylation, such as azacitidine (AZA) and decitabine (DAC), already used for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia, exert powerful beneficial effects in rodent models of type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and Guillain Barrè syndrome. Along this line of research, we have presently studied the effects of DAC in a murine model of rheumatoid arthritis induced by type II collagen and have demonstrated that DAC administration was associated with a significant amelioration of the clinical condition, along with in vivo and ex vivo modification of the immunological profile of the so-treated mice, that exhibited a diminished production of Th1 and Th17 pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduction of anti-type II collagen autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (M.C.P.); (E.M.)
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
| | - Marco Cutuli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (M.C.); (R.D.M.)
| | - Roberto Di Marco
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (M.C.); (R.D.M.)
| | - Fabiola Scandurra
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
| | - Andrea Saraceno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-478-1270
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
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28
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Byrum SD, Washam CL, Patterson JD, Vyas KK, Gilbert KM, Blossom SJ. Continuous Developmental and Early Life Trichloroethylene Exposure Promoted DNA Methylation Alterations in Polycomb Protein Binding Sites in Effector/Memory CD4 + T Cells. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2016. [PMID: 31555266 PMCID: PMC6724578 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is an industrial solvent and drinking water pollutant associated with CD4+ T cell-mediated autoimmunity. In our mouse model, discontinuation of TCE exposure during adulthood after developmental exposure did not prevent immunotoxicity. To determine whether persistent effects were linked to epigenetic changes we conducted whole genome reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) to evaluate methylation of CpG sites in autosomal chromosomes in activated effector/memory CD4+ T cells. Female MRL+/+ mice were exposed to vehicle control or TCE in the drinking water from gestation until ~37 weeks of age [postnatal day (PND) 259]. In a subset of mice, TCE exposure was discontinued at ~22 weeks of age (PND 154). At PND 259, RRBS assessment revealed more global methylation changes in the continuous exposure group vs. the discontinuous exposure group. A majority of the differentially methylated CpG regions (DMRs) across promoters, islands, and regulatory elements were hypermethylated (~90%). However, continuous developmental TCE exposure altered the methylation of 274 CpG sites in promoters and CpG islands. In contrast, only 4 CpG island regions were differentially methylated (hypermethylated) in the discontinuous group. Interestingly, 2 of these 4 sites were also hypermethylated in the continuous exposure group, and both of these island regions are associated with lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27) involved in polycomb complex-dependent transcriptional repression via H3K27 tri-methylation. CpG sites were overlapped with the Open Regulatory Annotation database. Unlike the discontinuous group, continuous TCE treatment resulted in 129 DMRs including 12 unique transcription factors and regulatory elements; 80% of which were enriched for one or more polycomb group (PcG) protein binding regions (i.e., SUZ12, EZH2, JARID2, and MTF2). Pathway analysis of the DMRs indicated that TCE primarily altered the methylation of genes associated with regulation of cellular metabolism and cell signaling. The results demonstrated that continuous developmental exposure to TCE differentially methylated binding sites of PcG proteins in effector/memory CD4+ cells. There were minimal yet potentially biologically significant effects that occurred when exposure was discontinued. These results point toward a novel mechanism by which chronic developmental TCE exposure may alter terminally differentiated CD4+ T cell function in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie D Byrum
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Charity L Washam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - John D Patterson
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Kanan K Vyas
- Department of Pediatrics, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Kathleen M Gilbert
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Sarah J Blossom
- Department of Pediatrics, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
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Ju J, Xu J, Zhu Y, Fu X, Morel L, Xu Z. A Variant of the Histone-Binding Protein sNASP Contributes to Mouse Lupus. Front Immunol 2019; 10:637. [PMID: 31001259 PMCID: PMC6454087 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Sle2c1rec1c (rec1c) sublocus is derived from the mouse lupus susceptibility 2 (Sle2) locus identified in the NZM2410 model. Our current study dissected the functional characters and the genetic basis of the rec1c locus relative to lupus when co-expressed with the Faslpr mutation, an established inducer of autoimmunity. The rec1c.lpr mice exhibited mild expansion of lymph nodes and had a normal T cell cellularity, but developed significantly kidney and lung inflammation, indicating that the rec1c amplifies lpr-induced autoimmune pathogenesis. A variant of somatic nuclear autoantigenic sperm protein (sNASP) was identified from the rec1c interval as a substitution of two consecutive amino acid residues in the histone-binding domain, resulting in an increased binding affinity to histone H4 and H3.1/H4 tetramer. To determine the role of the sNASP rec1c allele in mouse lupus, a novel strain was generated by introducing the rec1c mutations into the B6 genome. In this transgenic model, the sNASP allele synergized with the lpr mutation leading to moderate autoimmune phenotypes and aggravating inflammatory pathology alterations in kidney and lung that were similar to those observed in the rec1c.lpr mice. These results establish that the sNASP allele is a pathogenic genetic element in the rec1c sublocus, which not only promotes autoimmunity, but also exacerbates the inflammation reaction of end organs in mouse lupus pathogenesis. It also shows the complexity of the Sle2c locus, initially mapped as the major locus associated with B1a cell expansion. In addition to Cdkn2c, which regulates this expansion, we have now identified in the same locus a protective allele of Csf3r, a variant of Skint6 associated with T cell activation, and now a variant of sNASP that amplifies autoimmunity and tissue damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyu Ju
- Department of Immunology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jia Xu
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yaoqiang Zhu
- Department of Immunology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Xiaoyan Fu
- Department of Immunology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Laurence Morel
- Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Zhiwei Xu
- Department of Immunology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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Koga T, Ichinose K, Kawakami A, Tsokos GC. The role of IL-17 in systemic lupus erythematosus and its potential as a therapeutic target. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2019; 15:629-637. [PMID: 30874446 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2019.1593141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibodies production and immune complex deposition with systemic clinical manifestations. Interleukin (IL)-17-producing cells play a crucial role in disease pathogenesis and represent an attractive therapeutic target. Areas covered: This review provides an update on the possibility of targeting IL-17 in SLE. The rational for this approach as well as currently available and future targets are discussed. Expert opinion: Although human expression studies and animal models indicate that IL-17 blocking may be a promising therapeutic strategy for SLE, direct evidence for IL-17 inhibition in SLE patients is unavailable. Biologic therapies and small-molecule drugs that target IL-17 production are required for the achievement of a favorable clinical effect in SLE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Koga
- a Unit of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences , Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences , Nagasaki , Japan.,b Center for Bioinformatics and Molecular Medicine , Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences , Nagasaki , Japan
| | - Kunihiro Ichinose
- a Unit of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences , Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences , Nagasaki , Japan
| | - Atsushi Kawakami
- a Unit of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences , Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences , Nagasaki , Japan
| | - George C Tsokos
- c Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine , Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
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Eslami P, Rossi F, Fedeli S. Hybrid Nanogels: Stealth and Biocompatible Structures for Drug Delivery Applications. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:E71. [PMID: 30736486 PMCID: PMC6409538 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11020071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering nanogels, we have focused our attention on hybrid nanosystems for drug delivery and biomedical purposes. The distinctive strength of these structures is the capability to join the properties of nanosystems with the polymeric structures, where versatility is strongly demanded for biomedical applications. Alongside with the therapeutic effect, a non-secondary requirement of the nanosystem is indeed its biocompatibility. The importance to fulfill this aim is not only driven by the priority to reduce, as much as possible, the inflammatory or the immune response of the organism, but also by the need to improve circulation lifetime, biodistribution, and bioavailability of the carried drugs. In this framework, we have therefore gathered the hybrid nanogels specifically designed to increase their biocompatibility, evade the recognition by the immune system, and overcome the self-defense mechanisms present in the bloodstream of the host organism. The works have been essentially organized according to the hybrid morphologies and to the strategies adopted to fulfill these aims: Nanogels combined with nanoparticles or with liposomes, and involving polyethylene glycol chains or zwitterionic polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Eslami
- Laboratory of Molecular Magnetism (LaMM), Department of Chemistry "Ugo Shiff", University of Florence, via della Lastruccia 3, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy.
| | - Filippo Rossi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, via Mancinelli 7, 20131 Milano, Italy.
| | - Stefano Fedeli
- Colorobbia Research Center (CERICOL), via Pietramarina 53, 50053 Sovigliana Vinci, Italy.
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Gammon JM, Jewell CM. Engineering Immune Tolerance with Biomaterials. Adv Healthc Mater 2019; 8:e1801419. [PMID: 30605264 PMCID: PMC6384133 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201801419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases, rejection of transplanted organs and grafts, chronic inflammatory diseases, and immune-mediated rejection of biologic drugs impact a large number of people across the globe. New understanding of immune function is revealing exciting opportunities to help tackle these challenges by harnessing-or correcting-the specificity of immune function. However, realizing this potential requires precision control over the interaction between regulatory immune cues, antigens attacked during inflammation, and the tissues where these processes occur. Engineered materials-such as polymeric and lipid particles, scaffolds, and inorganic materials-offer powerful features that can help to selectively regulate immune function during disease without compromising healthy immune functions. This review highlights some of the exciting developments to leverage biomaterials as carriers, depots, scaffolds-and even as agents with intrinsic immunomodulatory features-to promote immunological tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M. Gammon
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 8278 Paint Branch Drive RM 5110, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Christopher M. Jewell
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 8278 Paint Branch Drive RM 5110, College Park, MD 20742, USA ; Robert E. Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, 8278 Paint Branch Drive, College Park, MD 20742, USA; United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Baltimore VA Medical center, 10. N Green Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Medical School, 685 West Baltimore Street, HSF-I Suite 380, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA; Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, 22 South Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Miller S, Tsou PS, Coit P, Gensterblum-Miller E, Renauer P, Rohraff DM, Kilian NC, Schonfeld M, Sawalha AH. Hypomethylation of STAT1 and HLA-DRB1 is associated with type-I interferon-dependent HLA-DRB1 expression in lupus CD8+ T cells. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 78:519-528. [PMID: 30674474 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2018-214323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined genome-wide DNA methylation changes in CD8+ T cells from patients with lupus and controls and investigated the functional relevance of some of these changes in lupus. METHODS Genome-wide DNA methylation of lupus and age, sex and ethnicity-matched control CD8+ T cells was measured using the Infinium MethylationEPIC arrays. Measurement of relevant cell subsets was performed via flow cytometry. Gene expression was quantified by qPCR. Inhibiting STAT1 and CIITA was performed using fludarabine and CIITA siRNA, respectively. RESULTS Lupus CD8+ T cells had 188 hypomethylated CpG sites compared with healthy matched controls. Among the most hypomethylated were sites associated with HLA-DRB1. Genes involved in the type-I interferon response, including STAT1, were also found to be hypomethylated. IFNα upregulated HLA-DRB1 expression on lupus but not control CD8+ T cells. Lupus and control CD8+ T cells significantly increased STAT1 mRNA levels after treatment with IFNα. The expression of CIITA, a key interferon/STAT1 dependent MHC-class II regulator, is induced by IFNα in lupus CD8+ T cells, but not healthy controls. CIITA knockdown and STAT1 inhibition experiments revealed that HLA-DRB1 expression in lupus CD8+ T cells is dependent on CIITA and STAT1 signalling. Coincubation of naïve CD4+ T cells with IFNα-treated CD8+ T cells led to CD4+ T cell activation, determined by increased expression of CD69 and cytokine production, in patients with lupus but not in healthy controls. This can be blocked by neutralising antibodies targeting HLA-DR. CONCLUSIONS Lupus CD8+ T cells are epigenetically primed to respond to type-I interferon. We describe an HLA-DRB1+ CD8+ T cell subset that can be induced by IFNα in patients with lupus. A possible pathogenic role for CD8+ T cells in lupus that is dependent on a high type-I interferon environment and epigenetic priming warrants further characterisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaylynn Miller
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Pei-Suen Tsou
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Patrick Coit
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Paul Renauer
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Dallas M Rohraff
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Nathan C Kilian
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mark Schonfeld
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Amr H Sawalha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA .,Center for Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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TSOKOS GEORGEC, TSOKOS MARIAG. TARGETING TARGETED TREATMENT FOR IMMUNE AND NON-IMMUNE KIDNEY DISEASES. TRANSACTIONS OF THE AMERICAN CLINICAL AND CLIMATOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 2019; 130:88-99. [PMID: 31516171 PMCID: PMC6735968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
We have found that calcium calmodulin kinase IV is increased in T cells, podocytes, and mesangial cells from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, as well as in lupus-prone mice, podocytes of patients with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, and in mice injected with doxorubicin. We showed that this accounts for aberrant T cell function and glomerular damage. Using nanoparticles (nlg) loaded with a small drug inhibitor of calcium calmodulin kinase IV and tagged with antibodies directed to CD4 we have been able to show inhibition of autoimmunity and lupus nephritis. Also, using nlg tagged with antibodies to nephrin, we showed suppression of nephritis in lupus-prone mice and of glomerular damage in mice exposed to doxorubicin. We propose the development of approaches to deliver drugs to cells in a targeted and precise manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- GEORGE C. TSOKOS
- Correspondence and reprint requests: George C. Tsokos, MD, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School,
330 Brookline Ave., CLS 937, Boston, Massachusetts 02215617-735-4161
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McHugh J. Cell-specific epigenetic modulation. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2018; 14:562. [PMID: 30206374 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-018-0089-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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