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Jose AM, Rasool M. A glimpse on the role of IL-21 in psoriatic arthritis pathogenesis. Life Sci 2024; 350:122766. [PMID: 38834097 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory arthropathy affecting the skin, entheses, and joints. Over the past decade, experimental evidence has revealed the activation of several immune cells and signaling cascades in modulating the pathophysiology of PsA. Recently, targeted therapies have been developed to combat the severity of disease. However, with diverse etiologies, flareups, and relapses, there has been an increased prevalence and mortality associated with PsA in recent years. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate new potential mediators and combination therapies to manage PsA pathogenesis. IL-21, an immunomodulatory cytokine, has pleiotropic effects on immune cells and the protein cascades involved in PsA pathogenesis. Recently, emerging evidence of increased IL-21 levels in patients with PsA has engendered much enthusiasm for its potential as a therapeutic target. Here, we unmasked IL-21 as a significant modulator of PsA pathogenesis and reviewed the comorbidities associated with the disease, further cataloging future therapeutic modalities to ameliorate PsA progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Miriam Jose
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mahaboobkhan Rasool
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India.
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2
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Kim Y, Manara F, Grassmann S, Belcheva KT, Reyes K, Kim H, Downs-Canner S, Yewdell WT, Sun JC, Chaudhuri J. IL-21 Shapes the B Cell Response in a Context-Dependent Manner. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.13.600808. [PMID: 39026745 PMCID: PMC11257567 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.13.600808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The cytokine interleukin-21 (IL-21) is a pivotal T cell-derived signal crucial for germinal center (GC) responses, but the precise mechanisms by which IL-21 influences B cell function remain elusive. Here, we investigated the B cell-intrinsic role of IL-21 signaling by employing a novel IL-21 receptor ( Il21r ) conditional knock-out mouse model and ex vivo culture systems and uncovered a surprising duality of IL-21 signaling in B cells. While IL-21 stimulation of naïve B cells led to Bim-dependent apoptosis, it promoted robust proliferation of pre-activated B cells, particularly class-switched IgG1 + B cells ex vivo . Consistent with this, B cell-specific deletion of Il21r led to a severe defect in IgG1 responses in vivo following immunization. Intriguingly, Il21r -deleted B cells are significantly impaired in their ability to transition from a pre-GC to a GC state following immunization. Although Il21r -deficiency did not affect the proportion of IgG1 + B cells among GC B cells, it greatly diminished the proportion of IgG1 + B cells among the plasmablast/plasma cell population. Collectively, our data suggest that IL-21 serves as a critical regulator of B cell fates, influencing B cell apoptosis and proliferation in a context-dependent manner.
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3
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Dos Passos RR, Santos CV, Priviero F, Briones AM, Tostes RC, Webb RC, Bomfim GF. Immunomodulatory Activity of Cytokines in Hypertension: A Vascular Perspective. Hypertension 2024; 81:1411-1423. [PMID: 38686582 PMCID: PMC11168883 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.124.21712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Cytokines play a crucial role in the structure and function of blood vessels in hypertension. Hypertension damages blood vessels by mechanisms linked to shear forces, activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and sympathetic nervous systems, oxidative stress, and a proinflammatory milieu that lead to the generation of neoantigens and damage-associated molecular patterns, ultimately triggering the release of numerous cytokines. Damage-associated molecular patterns are recognized by PRRs (pattern recognition receptors) and activate inflammatory mechanisms in endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, perivascular nerves, and perivascular adipose tissue. Activated vascular cells also release cytokines and express factors that attract macrophages, dendritic cells, and lymphocytes to the blood vessels. Activated and differentiated T cells into Th1, Th17, and Th22 in secondary lymphoid organs migrate to the vessels, releasing specific cytokines that further contribute to vascular dysfunction and remodeling. This chronic inflammation alters the profile of endothelial and smooth muscle cells, making them dysfunctional. Here, we provide an overview of how cytokines contribute to hypertension by impacting the vasculature. Furthermore, we explore clinical perspectives about the modulation of cytokines as a potential therapeutic intervention to specifically target hypertension-linked vascular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinaldo R Dos Passos
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, School of Medicine (R.R.d.P., C.V.S., F.P., R.C.W., G.F.B.), University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Cintia V Santos
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, School of Medicine (R.R.d.P., C.V.S., F.P., R.C.W., G.F.B.), University of South Carolina, Columbia
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil (C.V.S., R.C.T.)
| | - Fernanda Priviero
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, School of Medicine (R.R.d.P., C.V.S., F.P., R.C.W., G.F.B.), University of South Carolina, Columbia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Computing (F.P., R.C.W.), University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Ana M Briones
- Department of Pharmacology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain (A.M.B.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain (A.M.B.)
- CIBER Cardiovascular, Madrid, Spain (A.M.B.)
| | - Rita C Tostes
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil (C.V.S., R.C.T.)
| | - R Clinton Webb
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, School of Medicine (R.R.d.P., C.V.S., F.P., R.C.W., G.F.B.), University of South Carolina, Columbia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Computing (F.P., R.C.W.), University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Gisele F Bomfim
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, School of Medicine (R.R.d.P., C.V.S., F.P., R.C.W., G.F.B.), University of South Carolina, Columbia
- NUPADS - Health Education and Research Center, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, Brazil (G.F.B.)
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Nouri N, Aghebati-Maleki L, Soltani-Zangbar MS, Kamrani A, Mehdizadeh A, Danaii S, Heris JA, Chakeri-Khiavi F, Yousefi M. Analysis of Th17 cell population and expression of microRNA and factors related to Th17 in patients with premature ovarian failure. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 165:104290. [PMID: 39053202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Folliculogenesis is the process where follicles in the ovaries develop and eventually lead to ovulation. Any disruption to this process can cause premature ovarian failure. miR-326 is one of the microRNAs whose expression leads to Th17 production. Th17 activates the immune system to respond more vigorously, and by producing interlukins and cytokines causes inflammation and autoimmune disorders. Th17-induced inflammation and Th17/Treg imbalance can result in POF. This investigation took samples from 30 POF patients and 30 healthy people. The study utilized PCR to assess the expression levels of cytokines, specific transcription factor (ROR-γt), and miR-326. Additionally, ELISA was employed to analyze serum levels of IL-17, IL-21, IL-23. Furthermore, flow cytometry was utilized to determine the frequency of Th17. Compared to the control group, our results demonstrated a rise in the transcription factor RORɣt and a considerable rise in the frequency of Th17 cells in patients with POF. The level of inflammatory cytokines IL-17, IL-21, and IL-23 secreted in serum samples of patients with POF increased significantly compared to the control group. Results of investigating microRNA associated with Th17 cells also showed increased expression of miR-326 in females suffering from POF. The elevation of pro-inflammatory markers in women with POF contrary to the control group underscores the significant involvement of the immune system in pregnancy disorders pathogenesis. Consequently, immunological factors may serve as promising biomarkers for predicting POF likelihood in high-risk women in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Nouri
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Sadegh Soltani-Zangbar
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amin Kamrani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Mehdizadeh
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center,Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shahla Danaii
- Gynecology Department, Eastern Azerbaijan ACECR ART center, Eastern Azerbaijan branch of ACECR, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Javad Ahmadian Heris
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Pediatric Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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5
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Kim AM, Zhao L, Patel TR, Bailey CJ, Bai Q, Wakefield MR, Fang Y. From bench to bedside: the past, present and future of IL-21 immunotherapy. Med Oncol 2024; 41:181. [PMID: 38900341 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02404-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
As immunotherapy gains momentum as a promising approach for treating several types of cancer, IL-21 has emerged as the latest discovery within the γ chain cytokine family, known for its decisive effects on innate and adaptive immunity and immunopathology. Through the modulation of immune cells, IL-21 has demonstrated significant anti-tumor effects in preclinical studies. The potential of IL-21 in cancer treatment has been explored in phase I and II clinical trials, where it has been utilized both as monotherapy and in combination with other drug agents. Further investigation, alongside larger studies, is necessary before final evaluation and application of IL-21 as immunotherapy. This review aims to summarize these pre-clinical and clinical studies and to discuss the possible future directions of IL-21 immunotherapy development. Such a study may be helpful to accelerate the process of clinical application for IL21 immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin M Kim
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Pathology, Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines, IA, 50312, USA
| | - Lei Zhao
- The Department of Respiratory Medicine, The 2nd People's Hospital of Hefei and Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Tej R Patel
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Colin J Bailey
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Qian Bai
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Mark R Wakefield
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Yujiang Fang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Pathology, Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines, IA, 50312, USA.
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA.
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Ahodantin J, Wu J, Funaki M, Flores J, Wang X, Zheng P, Liu Y, Su L. Siglec-H -/- Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Protect Against Acute Liver Injury by Suppressing IFN-γ/Th1 Response and Promoting IL-21 + CD4 T Cells. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 18:101367. [PMID: 38849082 PMCID: PMC11296256 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.101367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Siglec-H is a receptor specifically expressed in mouse plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), which functions as a negative regulator of interferon-α production and plays a critical role in pDC maturation to become antigen-presenting cells. The function of pDCs in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases has been reported. However, the effect of Siglec-H expression in pDCs in liver inflammation and diseases remains unclear. METHODS Using the model of concanavalin A-induced acute liver injury (ALI), we investigated the Siglec-H/pDCs axis during ALI in BDCA2 transgenic mice and Siglec-H-/- mice. Anti-BDCA2 antibody, anti-interleukin (IL)-21R antibody, and Stat3 inhibitor were used to specifically deplete pDCs, block IL21 receptor, and inhibit Stat3 signaling, respectively. Splenocytes and purified naive CD4 T cells and bone marrow FLT3L-derived pDCs were cocultured and stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate/ionomycin and CD3/CD28 beads, respectively. RESULTS Data showed that specific depletion of pDCs aggravated concanavalin A-induced ALI. Remarkably, alanine aminotransferase, hyaluronic acid, and proinflammatory cytokines IL6 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were lower in the blood and liver of Siglec-H knockout mice. This was associated with attenuation of both interferon-γ/Th1 response and Stat1 signaling in the liver of Siglec-H knockout mice while intrahepatic IL21 and Stat3 signaling pathways were upregulated. Blocking IL21R or Stat3 signaling in Siglec-H knockout mice restored concanavalin A-induced ALI. Finally, we observed that the Siglec-H-null pDCs exhibited immature and immunosuppressive phenotypes (CCR9LowCD40Low), resulting in reduction of CD4 T-cell activation and promotion of IL21+CD4 T cells in the liver. CONCLUSIONS During T-cell-mediated ALI, Siglec-H-null pDCs enhance immune tolerance and promote IL21+CD4 T cells in the liver. Targeting Siglec-H/pDC axis may provide a novel approach to modulate liver inflammation and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Ahodantin
- Division of Virology, Pathogenesis, and Cancer, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Jiapeng Wu
- Division of Virology, Pathogenesis, and Cancer, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Masaya Funaki
- Division of Virology, Pathogenesis, and Cancer, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jair Flores
- Division of Virology, Pathogenesis, and Cancer, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Xu Wang
- Division of Immunotherapy, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Yang Liu
- OncoC4, Inc, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Lishan Su
- Division of Virology, Pathogenesis, and Cancer, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Division of Immunotherapy, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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Xu MY, Zeng N, Liu CQ, Sun JX, An Y, Zhang SH, Xu JZ, Zhong XY, Ma SY, He HD, Hu J, Xia QD, Wang SG. Enhanced cellular therapy: revolutionizing adoptive cellular therapy. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:47. [PMID: 38664743 PMCID: PMC11046957 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00506-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhanced cellular therapy has emerged as a novel concept following the basis of cellular therapy. This treatment modality applied drugs or biotechnology to directly enhance or genetically modify cells to enhance the efficacy of adoptive cellular therapy (ACT). Drugs or biotechnology that enhance the killing ability of immune cells include immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) / antibody drugs, small molecule inhibitors, immunomodulatory factors, proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC), oncolytic virus (OV), etc. Firstly, overcoming the inhibitory tumor microenvironment (TME) can enhance the efficacy of ACT, which can be achieved by blocking the immune checkpoint. Secondly, cytokines or cytokine receptors can be expressed by genetic engineering or added directly to adoptive cells to enhance the migration and infiltration of adoptive cells to tumor cells. Moreover, multi-antigen chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) can be designed to enhance the specific recognition of tumor cell-related antigens, and OVs can also stimulate antigen release. In addition to inserting suicide genes into adoptive cells, PROTAC technology can be used as a safety switch or degradation agent of immunosuppressive factors to enhance the safety and efficacy of adoptive cells. This article comprehensively summarizes the mechanism, current situation, and clinical application of enhanced cellular therapy, describing potential improvements to adoptive cellular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Yao Xu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Na Zeng
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Chen-Qian Liu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jian-Xuan Sun
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ye An
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Si-Han Zhang
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jin-Zhou Xu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xing-Yu Zhong
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Si-Yang Ma
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hao-Dong He
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia Hu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qi-Dong Xia
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Shao-Gang Wang
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Kust SA, Ustiuzhanina MO, Streltsova MA, Shelyakin PV, Kryukov MA, Lutsenko GV, Sudarikova AV, Merzlyak EM, Britanova OV, Sapozhnikov AM, Kovalenko EI. HLA-DR Expression in Natural Killer Cells Marks Distinct Functional States, Depending on Cell Differentiation Stage. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4609. [PMID: 38731828 PMCID: PMC11083986 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
HLA-DR-positive NK cells, found in both healthy individuals and patients with different inflammatory diseases, are characterized as activated cells. However, data on their capacity for IFNγ production or cytotoxic response vary between studies. Thus, more precise investigation is needed of the mechanisms related to the induction of HLA-DR expression in NK cells, their associations with NK cell differentiation stage, and functional or metabolic state. In this work, HLA-DR-expressing NK cell subsets were investigated using transcriptomic analysis, metabolic activity assays, and analysis of intercellular signaling cascades. We demonstrated that HLA-DR+CD56bright NK cells were characterized by a proliferative phenotype, while HLA-DR+CD56dim NK cells exhibited features of adaptive cells and loss of inhibitory receptors with increased expression of MHC class II trans-activator CIITA. The activated state of HLA-DR-expressing NK cells was confirmed by higher levels of ATP and mitochondrial mass observed in this subset compared to HLA-DR- cells, both ex vivo and after stimulation in culture. We showed that HLA-DR expression in NK cells in vitro can be induced both through stimulation by exogenous IL-2 and IL-21, as well as through auto-stimulation by NK-cell-produced IFNγ. At the intracellular level, HLA-DR expression depended on the activation of STAT3- and ERK1/2-mediated pathways, with subsequent activation of isoform 3 of the transcription factor CIITA. The obtained results broaden the knowledge about HLA-DR-positive NK cell appearance, diversity, and functions, which might be useful in terms of understanding the role of this subset in innate immunity and assessing their possible implications in NK cell-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofya A. Kust
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Maria O. Ustiuzhanina
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Maria A. Streltsova
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
| | | | - Maxim A. Kryukov
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
- Federal State Autonomous Institution, N.N. Burdenko National Medical Research Center of Neurosurgery, the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 125047 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Gennady V. Lutsenko
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Anna V. Sudarikova
- Federal State Autonomous Institution, N.N. Burdenko National Medical Research Center of Neurosurgery, the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 125047 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Ekaterina M. Merzlyak
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga V. Britanova
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexandr M. Sapozhnikov
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Elena I. Kovalenko
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (S.A.K.); (M.O.U.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.K.); (G.V.L.); (E.M.M.); (O.V.B.); (A.M.S.)
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9
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Isvoranu G, Chiritoiu-Butnaru M. Therapeutic potential of interleukin-21 in cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1369743. [PMID: 38638431 PMCID: PMC11024325 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1369743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-21 (IL-21) is an immunostimulatory cytokine which belongs to the common gamma-chain family of cytokines. It plays an import role in the development, differentiation, proliferation, and activation of immune cells, in particular T and natural killer (NK) cells. Since its discovery in 2000, IL-21 has been shown to regulate both adaptive and immune responses associates with key role in antiviral and antitumor responses. Recent advances indicate IL-21 as a promising target for cancer treatment and encouraging results were obtained in preclinical studies which investigated the potency of IL-21 alone or in combination with other therapies, including monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitory molecules, oncolytic virotherapy, and adoptive cell transfer. Furthermore, IL-21 showed antitumor effects in the treatment of patients with advanced cancer, with minimal side effects in several clinical trials. In the present review, we will outline the recent progress in IL-21 research, highlighting the potential of IL-21 based therapy as single agent or in combination with other drugs to enhance cancer treatment efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gheorghita Isvoranu
- Department of Animal Husbandry,” Victor Babeș” National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marioara Chiritoiu-Butnaru
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
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10
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Solaymani-Mohammadi S. The IL-21/IL-21R signaling axis regulates CD4+ T cell responsiveness to IL-12 to promote bacterial-induced colitis. J Leukoc Biol 2024:qiae069. [PMID: 38498592 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiae069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
IL-21/IL-21R signaling dysregulation is linked to multiple chronic intestinal inflammatory disorders in humans and animal models of human diseases. In addition to its critical requirement for the generation and development of germinal center B cells, IL-21/IL-21R signaling can also regulate the effector functions of a variety of T cell subsets. The antibody-mediated abrogation of IL-21/IL-21R signaling led to the impaired expression of IFN-γ by mucosal CD4+ T cells from human subjects with colitis, suggesting an IL-21/IL-21R-triggered positive feedback loop of the TH1 immune response in the colon. Despite recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms underpinning the regulation of pro-inflammatory immune responses by the IL-21/IL-21R signaling axis, it remains unclear how this pathway or its downstream molecules contribute to inflammation during bacterial-induced colitis. This study found that IL-21 enhances the surface expression of IL-12Rβ2, but not IL-12Rβ1, in CD4+ T cells, leading to TH1 differentiation and stability. Consistently, these findings also point to an indispensable role of the IL-12Rβ2 signaling axis in promoting pro-inflammatory immune responses during Citrobacter rodentium-induced colitis. Genetic deletion of the IL-12Rβ2 signaling pathway led to the attenuation of C. rodentium-induced colitis in vivo. The genetic deletion of the IL-12Rβ2 signaling pathway did not alter the host's ability to respond adequately to C. rodentium infection or the ability of Il12rb2-/- mice to express antigen-specific cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-17A). IL-21 is a pleiotropic cytokine exerting a wide range of immunomodulatory functions in multiple tissues, and its direct targeting may result in undesirable off-target consequences. These findings highlight the possibility for targeted manipulations of signaling cascades downstream of main regulators of pro-inflammatory responses to control invading pathogens while preserving the integrity of host immune responses. A better understanding of the novel mechanisms by which IL-21/IL-21R signaling regulates bacterial-induced colitis will provide insights into the development of new therapeutic and preventive strategies to harness IL-21/IL-21R signaling or its downstream molecules to treat infectious colitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahram Solaymani-Mohammadi
- Laboratory of Mucosal Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States of America
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11
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Li X, Wu M, Lu J, Yu J, Chen D. Interleukin-21 as an adjuvant in cancer immunotherapy: Current advances and future directions. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189084. [PMID: 38354828 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189084] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, it's well-recognized that a considerable proportion of patients fail to benefit from immunotherapy, and to improve immunotherapy response is clinically urgent. Insufficient immune infiltration and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) are main contributors to immunotherapy resistance. Thus sustaining functional self-renewal capacity for immune cells and subverting immune-suppressive signals are potential strategies for boosting the efficacy of immunotherapy. Interleukin-21 (IL-21), a crucial cytokine, which could enhance cytotoxic function of immune cells and reduces immunosuppressive cells enrichment in TME, shows promising orientations as an immunoadjuvant in tumor immunotherapy. This review focuses on IL-21 in cancer treatment, including function and mechanisms of IL-21, preclinical and clinical studies, and future directions for IL-21-assisted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Li
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China; Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinming Yu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China; Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Dawei Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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12
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Petersone L, Walker LSK. T-cell help in the germinal center: homing in on the role of IL-21. Int Immunol 2024; 36:89-98. [PMID: 38164992 PMCID: PMC10880887 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxad056] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin 21 (IL-21) is a pleiotropic cytokine that is overproduced in multiple autoimmune settings. Provision of IL-21 from follicular helper T cells is an important component of T-cell help within germinal centers (GC), and the last few years have seen a resurgence of interest in IL-21 biology in the context of the GC environment. While it has been more than a decade since T cell-derived IL-21 was found to upregulate B-cell expression of the GC master transcription factor B-cell lymphoma 6 (Bcl-6) and to promote GC expansion, several recent studies have collectively delivered significant new insights into how this cytokine shapes GC B-cell selection, proliferation, and fate choice. It is now clear that IL-21 plays an important role in GC zonal polarization by contributing to light zone GC B-cell positive selection for dark zone entry as well as by promoting cyclin D3-dependent dark zone inertial cycling. While it has been established that IL-21 can contribute to the modulation of GC output by aiding the generation of antibody-secreting cells (ASC), recent studies have now revealed how IL-21 signal strength shapes the fate choice between GC cycle re-entry and ASC differentiation in vivo. Both provision of IL-21 and sensitivity to this cytokine are finely tuned within the GC environment, and dysregulation of this pathway in autoimmune settings could alter the threshold for germinal center B-cell selection and differentiation, potentially promoting autoreactive B-cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Petersone
- University College London Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Pears Building, Royal Free Campus, London NW3 2PP, UK
| | - Lucy S K Walker
- University College London Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Pears Building, Royal Free Campus, London NW3 2PP, UK
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13
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Zhang X, Hu Q, Jiang B, Xie F, Zhang Z, Hafezi-Moghadam A, Sun D. Role of Interleukin-21 in retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury: Unveiling the impact on retinal ganglion cell apoptosis. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 128:111480. [PMID: 38194747 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) serves as a significant contributor to ocular diseases, triggering a cascade of pathological processes. The interplay between neuroinflammation and the apoptosis of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) is a well-explored aspect of retinal I/R-induced tissue damage. Within this intricate landscape, the inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-21 (IL21) emerges as a potent mediator of neuroinflammation with known detrimental effects on neuronal integrity. However, its specific impact on RGC apoptosis in the context of retinal I/R has remains to be uncovered. This study aims to unravel the potential anti-apoptotic effects of IL21 siRNA on RGC, shedding light on the neuroprotection of retinal I/R. METHODS Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats underwent a controlled elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) to 110 mmHg for 60 min to simulate retinal I/R conditions. To explore the influence of IL21 on RGC apoptosis and its underlying molecular mechanisms, a comprehensive array of techniques such immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, TUNEL, Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), immunoblotting, and qRT-PCR were carried out. RESULTS The landscape of retinal I/R injury revealed an increase in the expression of IL21, reaching its peak at 72 h. Notably, IL21 markedly induced RGC apoptosis within the retinal I/R milieu. The introduction of IL21 siRNA showed promising outcomes, manifesting as an amelioration of neurological function deficits, a reduction in RGC loss, and an increase in the thickness of the inner retinal layer at the 72-hour reperfusion. Additionally, IL21 siRNA demonstrated its ability to hinder the release of proteins associated with apoptosis via the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. In the in vitro setting, IL21 siRNA efficiently reduced R28 cell apoptosis by suppressing the production of proteins associated with apoptosis by regulating the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence for the pathogenic role of IL21 in retinal I/R. The findings underscore IL21 siRNA as a promising therapeutic target for ischemic retinal injury. Its efficacy lies in its ability to mitigate RGC apoptosis by suppressing the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. These findings not only enhance our comprehension of retinal I/R pathology but also suggests IL21 siRNA as a potential transformative factor in the development of targeted therapies for ischemic retinal injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Ischemia, Chinese Ministry of Education, Harbin 150086, China; Future Medical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Qiang Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Ischemia, Chinese Ministry of Education, Harbin 150086, China; Future Medical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Bo Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Fang Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Zhongyu Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Ali Hafezi-Moghadam
- Molecular Biomarkers Nano-Imaging Laboratory (MBNI), Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Dawei Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Ischemia, Chinese Ministry of Education, Harbin 150086, China; Future Medical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China.
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14
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Zhang Y, Zhang C, He M, Xing W, Hou R, Zhang H. Co-expression of IL-21-Enhanced NKG2D CAR-NK cell therapy for lung cancer. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:119. [PMID: 38263004 PMCID: PMC10807083 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11806-1] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adoptive cell therapy has achieved great success in treating hematological malignancies. However, the production of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy still faces various difficulties. Natural killer (NK)-92 is a continuously expandable cell line and provides a promising alternative for patient's own immune cells. METHODS We established CAR-NK cells by co-expressing natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) and IL-21, and evaluated the efficacy of NKG2D-IL-21 CAR-NK cells in treating lung cancer in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Our data suggested that the expression of IL-21 effectively increased the cytotoxicity of NKG2D CAR-NK cells against lung cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner and suppressed tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the proliferation of NKG2D-IL-21 CAR-NK cells were enhanced while the apoptosis and exhaustion of these cells were suppressed. Mechanistically, IL-21-mediated NKG2D CAR-NK cells function by activating AKT signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Our findings provide a novel option for treating lung cancer using NKG2D-IL-21 CAR-NK cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shenyang 242 Hospital, 110034, Shenyang, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610072, Chengdu, China
| | - Minghong He
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang, 262500, Weifang, China
| | - Weipeng Xing
- Geneis Beijing Co., Ltd., 100102, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Hou
- Geneis Beijing Co., Ltd., 100102, Beijing, China.
| | - Haijin Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang, 262500, Weifang, China.
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15
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Liu Y, Dang Y, Zhang C, Liu L, Cai W, Li L, Fang L, Wang M, Xu S, Wang G, Zheng J, Li H. IL-21-armored B7H3 CAR-iNKT cells exert potent antitumor effects. iScience 2024; 27:108597. [PMID: 38179061 PMCID: PMC10765065 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
CD1d-restricted invariant NKT (iNKT) cells play a critical role in tumor immunity. However, the scarcity and limited persistence restricts their development and clinical application. Here, we demonstrated that iNKT cells could be efficiently expanded using modified cytokines combination from peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Introduction of IL-21 significantly increased the frequency of CD62L-positive memory-like iNKT cells. iNKT cells armoring with B7H3-targeting second generation CAR and IL-21 showed potent tumor cell killing activity. Moreover, co-expression of IL-21 promoted the activation of Stat3 signaling and reduced the expression of exhaustion markers in CAR-iNKT cells in vitro. Most importantly, IL-21-arming significantly prolonged B7H3 CAR-iNKT cell proliferation and survival in vivo, thus improving their therapeutic efficacy in mouse renal cancer xerograph models without observed cytokine-related adverse events. In summary, these results suggest that B7H3 CAR-iNKT armored with IL-21 is a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Liu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Yuanyuan Dang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Chuhan Zhang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Wenhui Cai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Liantao Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Med-ical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Lin Fang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Med-ical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Med-ical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Shunzhe Xu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Med-ical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Med-ical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Huizhong Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Med-ical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
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16
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Ma M, Xie Y, Liu J, Wu L, Liu Y, Qin X. Biological effects of IL-21 on immune cells and its potential for cancer treatment. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 126:111154. [PMID: 37977064 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111154] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-21 (IL-21), a member of the IL-2 cytokine family, is one of the most important effector and messenger molecules in the immune system. Produced by various immune cells, IL-21 has pleiotropic effects on innate and adaptive immune responses via regulation of natural killer, T, and B cells. An anti-tumor role of IL-21 has also been reported in the literature, as it may support cell proliferation or on the contrary induce growth arrest or apoptosis of the tumor cell. Anti-tumor effect of IL-21 enhances when combined with other agents that target tumor cells, immune regulatory circuits, or other immune-enhancing molecules. Therefore, understanding the biology of IL-21 in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and reducing its systemic toxic and side effects is crucial to ensure the maximum benefits of anti-tumor treatment strategies. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview on the biological functions, roles in tumors, and the recent advances in preclinical and clinical research of IL-21 in tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meichen Ma
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xie
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jianhua Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lina Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaosong Qin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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17
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Wu H, Fu Q, Teng Y, Mu P, Chen J, Chen X. The identification and expression of an interleukin-21 receptor in large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea). Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:10121-10129. [PMID: 37921979 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08827-1] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We identified a homologue of IL-21R (LcIL-21R) in large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea, Lc). Our investigation focused on understanding the molecular structural features and immune function of LcIL-21R. METHODS We cloned the LcIL-21R gene from the genome of Larimichthys crocea by RT‒PCR, and the molecular and structural characteristics of LcIL-21R were analyzed by a series of protein analysis tools. We used real-time PCR to investigate the tissue distribution of LcIL-21R, and LcIL-21R gene expression regulation was also measured in head kidney leukocytes under trivalent bacterial vaccine or poly (I:C) stimulation. RESULTS The open reading frame (ORF) of the LcIL-21R gene is 1629 bp long and encodes a precursor protein of 542 amino acids (aa), with a 23-aa signal peptide and a 519-aa mature peptide containing four putative N-glycosylation sites. LcIL-21R has two fibronectin type III (FNIII)-like domains (D1 and D2), a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic region. A conserved WSXWS motif was also found in the D2 domain. The predicted structure of the extracellular region of LcIL-21R (LcIL-21R-Ex) is highly similar to that of human IL-21R. LcIL-21R was constitutively expressed in all tissues examined, and LcIL-21R mRNA levels were increased in the head kidney and spleen upon inactivated trivalent bacterial vaccine or poly(I:C) stimulation. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that LcIL-21R shares structural and functional properties with IL-21Rs found in other vertebrates, indicating its potential involvement in the IL-21-mediated immune response to pathogenic infections. These findings contribute to our understanding of the evolutionary conservation of IL-21 signaling and its role in the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanyu Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Mariculture Breeding, Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Fujian Province, College of Marine Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, No.15 Shangxiadian Road, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Qiuling Fu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350013, China
| | - Yan Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Mariculture Breeding, Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Fujian Province, College of Marine Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, No.15 Shangxiadian Road, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Pengfei Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Mariculture Breeding, Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Fujian Province, College of Marine Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, No.15 Shangxiadian Road, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Jingjie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Mariculture Breeding, Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Fujian Province, College of Marine Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, No.15 Shangxiadian Road, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Xinhua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Mariculture Breeding, Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Fujian Province, College of Marine Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, No.15 Shangxiadian Road, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China.
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18
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Megna M, Potestio L, Ruggiero A, Cacciapuoti S, Maione F, Tasso M, Caso F, Costa L. JAK Inhibitors in Psoriatic Disease. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2023; 16:3129-3145. [PMID: 37927384 PMCID: PMC10625379 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s433367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Psoriasis is now considered to be the cutaneous phenotype of a systemic inflammatory condition, recognized under the term Psoriatic Disease (PsD). PsD has several extracutaneous manifestations, such as inflammatory articular and entheseal involvement, leading to psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and the less frequent intestinal and ocular manifestations with colitis/inflammatory bowel disease and uveitis, respectively. There have also been several reports of an increased frequency of comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular manifestations during the course of PsD. The link between psoriasis and related comorbidities is considered a long-term disease sequela, often characterized by an unhealthy lifestyle and a consequence of systemic inflammation; hence, psoriasis requires adequate and prompt treatment, with the aim of controlling not only cutaneous manifestations but also extracutaneous manifestations and systemic inflammation. Pharmacological strategies for PsD have significantly increased over recent years. Recently, the targeted synthetic DMARDs, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, tofacitinib and upadacitinib, were added to the therapeutic armamentarium for treating PsA, and deucravacitinib for psoriasis. These oral agents act directly on inflammatory mechanisms underlining the disease, as antagonists of the intracellular JAK signal pathway and, by STAT phosphorylation, inhibit gene proinflammatory cytokine transcription. JAK inhibitors represent a recent additional treatment strategy for PsD management and, among these, tofacitinib and upadacitinib have recently been approved for PsA, and deucravacitinib for psoriasis. In this review we describe ongoing and recent phase II and III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and safety of investigational JAK inhibitors in psoriasis and PsA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Megna
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Potestio
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Angelo Ruggiero
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Cacciapuoti
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Maione
- Immunopharmalab, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Tasso
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Caso
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luisa Costa
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Petersone L, Wang CJ, Edner NM, Fabri A, Nikou SA, Hinze C, Ross EM, Ntavli E, Elfaki Y, Heuts F, Ovcinnikovs V, Rueda Gonzalez A, Houghton LP, Li HM, Zhang Y, Toellner KM, Walker LSK. IL-21 shapes germinal center polarization via light zone B cell selection and cyclin D3 upregulation. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20221653. [PMID: 37466652 PMCID: PMC10355162 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20221653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Germinal center (GC) dysregulation has been widely reported in the context of autoimmunity. Here, we show that interleukin 21 (IL-21), the archetypal follicular helper T cell (Tfh) cytokine, shapes the scale and polarization of spontaneous chronic autoimmune as well as transient immunization-induced GC. We find that IL-21 receptor deficiency results in smaller GC that are profoundly skewed toward a light zone GC B cell phenotype and that IL-21 plays a key role in selection of light zone GC B cells for entry to the dark zone. Light zone skewing has been previously reported in mice lacking the cell cycle regulator cyclin D3. We demonstrate that IL-21 triggers cyclin D3 upregulation in GC B cells, thereby tuning dark zone inertial cell cycling. Lastly, we identify Foxo1 regulation as a link between IL-21 signaling and GC dark zone formation. These findings reveal new biological roles for IL-21 within GC and have implications for autoimmune settings where IL-21 is overproduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Petersone
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Chun Jing Wang
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Natalie M Edner
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Astrid Fabri
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Spyridoula-Angeliki Nikou
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Claudia Hinze
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Ellen M Ross
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Elisavet Ntavli
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Yassin Elfaki
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Frank Heuts
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Vitalijs Ovcinnikovs
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Andrea Rueda Gonzalez
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Luke P Houghton
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Hannah M Li
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
| | - Yang Zhang
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham , Birmingham, UK
| | - Kai-Michael Toellner
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham , Birmingham, UK
| | - Lucy S K Walker
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London , London, UK
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20
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Leonard WJ, Lin JX. Strategies to therapeutically modulate cytokine action. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:827-854. [PMID: 37542128 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00746-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Cytokines are secreted or membrane-presented molecules that mediate broad cellular functions, including development, differentiation, growth and survival. Accordingly, the regulation of cytokine activity is extraordinarily important both physiologically and pathologically. Cytokine and/or cytokine receptor engineering is being widely investigated to safely and effectively modulate cytokine activity for therapeutic benefit. IL-2 in particular has been extensively engineered, to create IL-2 variants that differentially exhibit activities on regulatory T cells to potentially treat autoimmune disease versus effector T cells to augment antitumour effects. Additionally, engineering approaches are being applied to many other cytokines such as IL-10, interferons and IL-1 family cytokines, given their immunosuppressive and/or antiviral and anticancer effects. In modulating the actions of cytokines, the strategies used have been broad, including altering affinities of cytokines for their receptors, prolonging cytokine half-lives in vivo and fine-tuning cytokine actions. The field is rapidly expanding, with extensive efforts to create improved therapeutics for a range of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren J Leonard
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and the Immunology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Jian-Xin Lin
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and the Immunology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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21
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Repici A, Ardizzone A, Filippone A, Colarossi C, Mare M, Raciti G, Mannino D, Cuzzocrea S, Paterniti I, Esposito E. Interleukin-21 Influences Glioblastoma Course: Biological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential. Cells 2023; 12:2284. [PMID: 37759505 PMCID: PMC10526836 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182284] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors represent a heterogeneous group of neoplasms involving the brain or nearby tissues, affecting populations of all ages with a high incidence worldwide. Among the primary brain tumors, the most aggressive and also the most common is glioblastoma (GB), a type of glioma that falls into the category of IV-grade astrocytoma. GB often leads to death within a few months after diagnosis, even if the patient is treated with available therapies; for this reason, it is important to continue to discover new therapeutic approaches to allow for a better survival rate of these patients. Immunotherapy, today, seems to be one of the most innovative types of treatment, based on the ability of the immune system to counteract various pathologies, including cancer. In this context, interleukin 21 (IL-21), a type I cytokine produced by natural killer (NK) cells and CD4+ T lymphocytes, appears to be a valid target for new therapies since this cytokine is involved in the activation of innate and adaptive immunity. To match this purpose, our review deeply evaluated how IL-21 could influence the progression of GB, analyzing its main biological processes and mechanisms while evaluating the potential use of the latest available therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Repici
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Alessio Ardizzone
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Alessia Filippone
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Cristina Colarossi
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, Italy; (C.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Marzia Mare
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, Italy; (C.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Gabriele Raciti
- IOM Ricerca, Via Penninazzo 11, 95029 Viagrande, Italy;
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Deborah Mannino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Irene Paterniti
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Emanuela Esposito
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 98166 Messina, Italy; (A.R.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (S.C.); (E.E.)
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22
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Fu Y, Tang R, Zhao X. Engineering cytokines for cancer immunotherapy: a systematic review. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1218082. [PMID: 37483629 PMCID: PMC10357296 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1218082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytokines are pivotal mediators of cell communication in the tumor microenvironment. Multiple cytokines are involved in the host antitumor response, but the production and function of these cytokines are usually dysregulated during malignant tumor progression. Considering their clinical potential and the early successful use of cytokines in cancer immunotherapy, such as interferon alpha-2b (IFNα-2b; IntronA®) and IL-2 (Proleukin®), cytokine-based therapeutics have been extensively evaluated in many follow-up clinical trials. Following these initial breakthroughs, however, clinical translation of these natural messenger molecules has been greatly limited owing to their high-degree pleiotropic features and complex biological properties in many cell types. These characteristics, coupled with poor pharmacokinetics (a short half-life), have hampered the delivery of cytokines via systemic administration, particularly because of severe dose-limiting toxicities. New engineering approaches have been developed to widen the therapeutic window, prolong pharmacokinetic effects, enhance tumor targeting and reduce adverse effects, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy. In this review, we focus on the recent progress and competitive landscape in cytokine engineering strategies and preclinical/clinical therapeutics for cancer. In addition, aiming to promote engineered cytokine-based cancer immunotherapy, we present a profound discussion about the feasibility of recently developed methods in clinical medicine translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Neurology and Oncology Drug Development, Jiangsu Simcere Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Simcere Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Renhong Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Neurology and Oncology Drug Development, Jiangsu Simcere Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
- Simcere Zaiming Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Neurology and Oncology Drug Development, Jiangsu Simcere Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Simcere Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Nanjing, China
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23
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Eivary SHA, Kheder RK, Najmaldin SK, Kheradmand N, Esmaeili SA, Hajavi J. Implications of IL-21 in solid tumor therapy. Med Oncol 2023; 40:191. [PMID: 37249661 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02051-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Cancer, the most deadly disease, is known as a recent dilemma worldwide. Presently different treatments are used for curing cancers, especially solid cancers. Because of the immune-enhancing functions of cytokine, IL-21 as a cytokine may have new possibilities to manipulate the immune system in disease conditions, as it stimulates NK and CTL functions and drives IgG antibody production. Indeed, IL-21 has been revealed to elicit antitumor-immune responses in several tumor models. Combining IL-21 with other agents, which target tumor cells, immune-regulatory circuits, or other immune-enhancing molecules enhances this activity. The exciting breakthrough in the results obtained in pre-clinical situations has led to the early outset of present developing clinical trials in cancer patients. In the paper, we have reviewed the function of IL-21 in solid tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Hossein Abtahi Eivary
- Department of Medical Sciences of Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Para-Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Ramiar Kamal Kheder
- Medical Laboratory Science Department, College of Science, University of Raparin, Rania, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Soran K Najmaldin
- Department of Medical Analysis, Faculty of Applied Science, Tishk International University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Nahid Kheradmand
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed-Alireza Esmaeili
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Jafar Hajavi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran.
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24
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Zhang Y, Su J. Interleukin-2 family cytokines: An overview of genes, expression, signaling and functional roles in teleost. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 141:104645. [PMID: 36696924 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2023.104645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The interleukin-2 (IL-2) family cytokines include IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-15, and IL-21, which share γ chain (γc) subunit in receptors. The IL-2 family cytokines have unique biological effects that regulate differentiation, survival and activation of multiple lymphocyte lineages. Deficiency of IL-2 family signaling pathway in mammals prevents CD4+ T cells from developing effector functions and CD8+ T cells from developing immunological memory. In the present review, we addressed available information from teleost IL-2 family cytokines and discussed implications in teleost immunity. Also, we described and discussed their expression profiles, receptors, signaling transductions and functions. In teleost, IL-2 family has 5 members (IL-2, IL-4/13, IL-7, IL-15, IL-21) without IL-9, and their receptors share a common γc subunit and include other 6 subunits (IL-2Rβ1/2, IL-4Rα1/2, IL-13Rα1/2, IL-7Rα, IL-15Rα, and IL-21Rα1/2). Some paralogues have changes in domain structure and show differential expression, modulation, functions. IL-2 family cytokines constitutively express in many immune associated tissues and are largely induced after pathogenic microbial stimulation. In general, there are relatively conserved functions in the IL-2 family throughout vertebrates, and many of the key IL-2 family members are important in lymphocyte proliferation and differentiation, development, inflammation from fishes to mammals. This review will give an update on the effective information of teleost IL-2 family cytokines. Thus, it will provide a source of reference for other researchers/readers and inspire further interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqi Zhang
- College of Fisheries, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Jianguo Su
- College of Fisheries, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China.
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25
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Nanjireddy PM, Olejniczak SH, Buxbaum NP. Targeting of chimeric antigen receptor T cell metabolism to improve therapeutic outcomes. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1121565. [PMID: 36999013 PMCID: PMC10043186 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1121565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetically engineered chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells can cure patients with cancers that are refractory to standard therapeutic approaches. To date, adoptive cell therapies have been less effective against solid tumors, largely due to impaired homing and function of immune cells within the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Cellular metabolism plays a key role in T cell function and survival and is amenable to manipulation. This manuscript provides an overview of known aspects of CAR T metabolism and describes potential approaches to manipulate metabolic features of CAR T to yield better anti-tumor responses. Distinct T cell phenotypes that are linked to cellular metabolism profiles are associated with improved anti-tumor responses. Several steps within the CAR T manufacture process are amenable to interventions that can generate and maintain favorable intracellular metabolism phenotypes. For example, co-stimulatory signaling is executed through metabolic rewiring. Use of metabolic regulators during CAR T expansion or systemically in the patient following adoptive transfer are described as potential approaches to generate and maintain metabolic states that can confer improved in vivo T cell function and persistence. Cytokine and nutrient selection during the expansion process can be tailored to yield CAR T products with more favorable metabolic features. In summary, improved understanding of CAR T cellular metabolism and its manipulations have the potential to guide the development of more effective adoptive cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Maridhi Nanjireddy
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Pediatric Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
- Immunology Department, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Scott H. Olejniczak
- Immunology Department, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Nataliya Prokopenko Buxbaum
- Department of Pediatrics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Nataliya Prokopenko Buxbaum,
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26
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Serum Interleukins as Potential Prognostic Biomarkers in HBV-Related Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure. Mediators Inflamm 2022; 2022:7794890. [PMID: 36117587 PMCID: PMC9477565 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7794890] [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: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is relatively common in China and has complex pathogenesis, difficult clinical treatment, and poor prognosis. Immune status is an important factor affecting ACLF prognosis. Interleukins are a family of secreted lymphocyte factors that interact with a host of cell types including immune cells. These signaling molecules play important roles in transmitting information; regulating immune cells; mediating the activation, proliferation, and differentiation of T and B cells; and modulating inflammatory responses. Many studies have investigated the correlation between interleukin expression and the prognosis of HBV-ACLF. This review focuses on the potential use of interleukins as prognostic biomarkers in HBV-ACLF. References were mainly identified through PubMed and CNKI search, including relevant studies published until December 2021. We have summarized reports of several promising diagnostic interleukin biomarkers that predict susceptibility to HBV-ACLF. The use of biomarkers to understand early prognosis can help devise different therapeutic measures and improve patient survival. Ongoing research on prognostic biomarkers of HBV-ACLF is promising, and future preclinical and clinical studies are warranted.
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27
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Quast I, Dvorscek AR, Pattaroni C, Steiner TM, McKenzie CI, Pitt C, O'Donnell K, Ding Z, Hill DL, Brink R, Robinson MJ, Zotos D, Tarlinton DM. Interleukin-21, acting beyond the immunological synapse, independently controls T follicular helper and germinal center B cells. Immunity 2022; 55:1414-1430.e5. [PMID: 35896116 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2022.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Germinal centers (GCs), transient structures within B cell follicles and central to affinity maturation, require the coordinated behavior of T and B cells. IL-21, a pleiotropic T cell-derived cytokine, is key to GC biology through incompletely understood mechanisms. By genetically restricting production and receipt of IL-21 in vivo, we reveal how its independent actions on T and B cells combine to regulate the GC. IL-21 established the magnitude of the GC B cell response by promoting CD4+ T cell expansion and differentiation in a dose-dependent manner and with paracrine activity. Within GC, IL-21 specifically promoted B cell centroblast identity and, when bioavailability was high, plasma cell differentiation. Critically, these actions may occur irrespective of cognate T-B interactions, making IL-21 a general promoter of growth as distinct to a mediator of affinity-driven selection via synaptic delivery. This promiscuous activity of IL-21 explains the consequences of IL-21 deficiency on antibody-based immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaak Quast
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia.
| | - Alexandra R Dvorscek
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Celine Pattaroni
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Thiago M Steiner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Craig I McKenzie
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Catherine Pitt
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Kristy O'Donnell
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Zhoujie Ding
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Danika L Hill
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Robert Brink
- Immunology Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; St. Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Marcus J Robinson
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Dimitra Zotos
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - David M Tarlinton
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia.
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28
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Yu T, Yu SK, Xiang Y, Lu KH, Sun M. Revolution of CAR Engineering For Next-Generation Immunotherapy In Solid Tumors. Front Immunol 2022; 13:936496. [PMID: 35903099 PMCID: PMC9315443 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.936496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells have enormous potentials for clinical therapies. The CAR-T therapy has been approved for treating hematological malignancies. However, their application is limited in solid tumors owing to antigen loss and mutation, physical barriers, and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. To overcome the challenges of CAR-T, increasing efforts are put into developing CAR-T to expand its applied ranges. Varied receptors are utilized for recognizing tumor-associated antigens and relieving immunosuppression. Emerging co-stimulatory signaling is employed for CAR-T activation. Furthermore, other immune cells such as NK cells and macrophages have manifested potential for delivering CAR. Hence, we collected and summarized the last advancements of CAR engineering from three aspects, namely, the ectodomains, endogenous domains, and immune cells, aiming to inspire the design of next-generation adoptive immunotherapy for treating solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shao-kun Yu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Xiang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kai-Hua Lu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Kai-Hua Lu, ; Ming Sun,
| | - Ming Sun
- Suzhou Cancer Center Core Laboratory, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Kai-Hua Lu, ; Ming Sun,
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29
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Dvorscek AR, McKenzie CI, Robinson MJ, Ding Z, Pitt C, O'Donnell K, Zotos D, Brink R, Tarlinton DM, Quast I. IL-21 has a critical role in establishing germinal centers by amplifying early B cell proliferation. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e54677. [PMID: 35801309 PMCID: PMC9442303 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202254677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The proliferation and differentiation of antigen‐specific B cells, including the generation of germinal centers (GC), are prerequisites for long‐lasting, antibody‐mediated immune protection. Affinity for antigen determines B cell recruitment, proliferation, differentiation, and competitiveness in the response, largely through determining access to T cell help. However, how T cell‐derived signals contribute to these outcomes is incompletely understood. Here, we report how the signature cytokine of follicular helper T cells, IL‐21, acts as a key regulator of the initial B cell response by accelerating cell cycle progression and the rate of cycle entry, increasing their contribution to the ensuing GC. This effect occurs over a wide range of initial B cell receptor affinities and correlates with elevated AKT and S6 phosphorylation. Moreover, the resultant increased proliferation can explain the IL‐21‐mediated promotion of plasma cell differentiation. Collectively, our data establish that IL‐21 acts from the outset of a T cell‐dependent immune response to increase cell cycle progression and fuel cyclic re‐entry of B cells, thereby regulating the initial GC size and early plasma cell output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra R Dvorscek
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Craig I McKenzie
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Marcus J Robinson
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Zhoujie Ding
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Catherine Pitt
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Kristy O'Donnell
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Dimitra Zotos
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Robert Brink
- Immunology Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David M Tarlinton
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Isaak Quast
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
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30
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Ex vivo-expanded human CD19 +TIM-1 + regulatory B cells suppress immune responses in vivo and are dependent upon the TIM-1/STAT3 axis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3121. [PMID: 35660734 PMCID: PMC9166804 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30613-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory B cells (Breg) are a heterogenous population with immune-modulating functions. The rarity of human IL-10+ Breg makes translational studies difficult. Here we report ex vivo expansion of human B cells with in vivo regulatory function (expBreg). CD154-stimulation of human CD19+ B cells drives >900-fold expansion of IL-10+ B cells that is maintained in culture for 14 days. Whilst expBreg-mediated suppressive function is partially dependent on IL-10 expression, CRISPR-mediated gene deletions demonstrate predominant roles for TIM-1 and CD154. TIM-1 regulates STAT3 signalling and modulates downstream suppressive function. In a clinically relevant humanised mouse model of skin transplantation, expBreg prolongs human allograft survival. Meanwhile, CD19+CD73-CD25+CD71+TIM-1+CD154+ Breg cells are enriched in the peripheral blood of human donors with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). TIM-1+ and pSTAT3+ B cells are also identified in B cell clusters within histological sections of human cutaneous SCC tumours. Our findings thus provide insights on Breg homoeostasis and present possible targets for Breg-related therapies.
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31
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Sottoriva K, Paik NY, White Z, Bandara T, Shao L, Sano T, Pajcini KV. A Notch/IL-21 signaling axis primes bone marrow T cell progenitor expansion. JCI Insight 2022; 7:e157015. [PMID: 35349492 PMCID: PMC9090257 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.157015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term impairment in T cell-mediated adaptive immunity is a major clinical obstacle following treatment of blood disorders with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Although T cell development in the thymus has been extensively characterized, there are significant gaps in our understanding of prethymic processes that influence early T cell potential. We have uncovered a Notch/IL-21 signaling axis in bone marrow common lymphoid progenitor (CLP) cells. IL-21 receptor expression was driven by Notch activation in CLPs, and in vivo treatment with IL-21 induced Notch-dependent CLP proliferation. Taking advantage of this potentially novel signaling axis, we generated T cell progenitors ex vivo, which improved repopulation of the thymus and peripheral lymphoid organs of mice in an allogeneic transplant model. Importantly, Notch and IL-21 activation were equally effective in the priming and expansion of human cord blood cells toward the T cell fate, confirming the translational potential of the combined treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Na Yoon Paik
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine and
| | - Zachary White
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Lijian Shao
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine and
| | - Teruyuki Sano
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Drvar V, Ćurko-Cofek B, Karleuša L, Aralica M, Rogoznica M, Kehler T, Legović D, Rukavina D, Laskarin G. Granulysin expression and granulysin-mediated apoptosis in the peripheral blood of osteoarthritis patients. Biomed Rep 2022; 16:44. [PMID: 35478928 PMCID: PMC9016702 DOI: 10.3892/br.2022.1527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disease caused by mechanical damage and metabolic factors that support the development of low-grade inflammation. Increased levels of T helper 1 pro-inflammatory cytokines in the serum of OA patients may support granulysin (GNLY) mediated cytotoxicity, which in-turn may contribute to the pathogenesis of OA. In the present study, GNLY expression and cytotoxic/apoptotic mechanisms mediated by GNLY in the peripheral blood of OA patients were assessed. A total of 40 non-obese women (median age of 64 years old) with knee OA, and 40 controls (median age 62 years old) were enrolled in the study. GNLY, IFN-γ and IL-4 expression levels were investigated in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) using flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry and/or confocal microscopy. Natural killer (NK) GNLY-mediated apoptosis through NK effectors against K-562 targets was analyzed using the PKH-26 18-h cytotoxicity assay. Serum GNLY levels were assessed using ELISA. The percentage of GNLY+PBLs was higher in the OA patients than that in the controls due to the increase in the proportions of GNLY+ cells in the natural killer (NK), T and natural killer T (NKT) subsets. GNLY localization inside exocytotic lysosomal-associated membrane protein-1+ granules was ~40% in both groups. However, the intensity of GNLY labeling in PBLs was higher in OA patients than in the controls, and it was supported by the increased expression of IFN-γ relative to IL-4 in NK and T cells from OA patients. The serum GNLY concentration was <0.3 ng/ml in both groups. RC8 anti-GNLY mAb by itself was unable to significantly alter early apoptosis, whereas RC8 anti-GNLY mAb combined with anti-perforin mAb significantly reduced NK-mediated early apoptosis of K-562 targets in the OA patients, whilst not exerting a notable effect in the controls. Anti-perforin mAb by itself did not affect apoptosis significantly. These results suggest that in women with knee OA, GNLY expression in the PBL subsets and GNLY-mediated early apoptosis of K-562 targets are increased compared with the controls and accompanied by intracellular dominance of IFN-γ over IL-4 in NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vedrana Drvar
- Clinical Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Centre Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Božena Ćurko-Cofek
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia,Correspondence to: Dr Božena Ćurko-Cofek, Department of Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, B. Branchetta 20, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Ljerka Karleuša
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Merica Aralica
- Clinical Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Centre Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Marija Rogoznica
- Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation of Health and Lung Diseases and Rheumatism ‘Thalassotherapia-Opatija’, 51410 Opatija, Croatia
| | - Tatjana Kehler
- Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation of Health and Lung Diseases and Rheumatism ‘Thalassotherapia-Opatija’, 51410 Opatija, Croatia,Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Dalen Legović
- Clinic for Orthopaedic Surgery Lovran, 51415 Lovran, Croatia
| | - Daniel Rukavina
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia,Department of Biomedical Sciences in Rijeka, Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Gordana Laskarin
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia,Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation of Health and Lung Diseases and Rheumatism ‘Thalassotherapia-Opatija’, 51410 Opatija, Croatia
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Yiu G, Rasmussen TK, Tsai BL, Diep VK, Haddon DJ, Tsoi J, Miller GD, Comin-Anduix B, Deleuran B, Crooks GM, Utz PJ. High Interferon Signature Leads to Increased STAT1/3/5 Phosphorylation in PBMCs From SLE Patients by Single Cell Mass Cytometry. Front Immunol 2022; 13:833636. [PMID: 35185925 PMCID: PMC8851522 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.833636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The establishment of an “interferon (IFN) signature” to subset SLE patients on disease severity has led to therapeutics targeting IFNα. Here, we investigate IFN signaling in SLE using multiplexed protein arrays and single cell cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF). First, the IFN signature for SLE patients (n=81) from the Stanford Lupus Registry is determined using fluidigm qPCR measuring 44 previously determined IFN-inducible transcripts. IFN-high (IFN-H) patients have increased SLE criteria and renal/CNS/immunologic involvement, and increased autoantibody reactivity against spliceosome-associated antigens. CyTOF analysis is performed on non-stimulated and stimulated (IFNα, IFNγ, IL-21) PBMCs from SLE patients (n=25) and HCs (n=9) in a panel identifying changes in phosphorylation of intracellular signaling proteins (pTOF). Another panel is utilized to detect changes in intracellular cytokine (ICTOF) production in non-stimulated and stimulated (PMA/ionomycin) PBMCs from SLE patients (n=31) and HCs (n=17). Bioinformatic analysis by MetaCyto and OMIQ reveal phenotypic changes in immune cell subsets between IFN-H and IFN-low (IFN-L) patients. Most notably, IFN-H patients exhibit increased STAT1/3/5 phosphorylation downstream of cytokine stimulation and increased phosphorylation of non-canonical STAT proteins. These results suggest that IFN signaling in SLE modulates STAT phosphorylation, potentially uncovering possible targets for future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Yiu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States.,Department of Rheumatology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Tue Kruse Rasmussen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Brandon L Tsai
- Department of Human Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Vivian K Diep
- Department of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - David J Haddon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Jennifer Tsoi
- Department of Surgery David Geffen School of Medicine, Johnson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Gopika D Miller
- Department of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Begoña Comin-Anduix
- Department of Surgery David Geffen School of Medicine, Johnson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Bent Deleuran
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gay M Crooks
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Eli and Edythe Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Paul J Utz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States.,Institute for Immunity, Transplantation, and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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Gómez-García F, Gómez-Arias PJ, Montilla-López A, Hernández-Parada J, Sanz-Cabanillas JL, Ruano J, Parra-Peralbo E. A Scoping Review on Use of Drugs Targeting the JAK/STAT Pathway in Psoriasis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:754116. [PMID: 35280877 PMCID: PMC8914468 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.754116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Janus kinase–signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway are known to be involved in inflammatory immune-mediated skin diseases, including psoriasis. The development of drugs targeting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway presents new treatment opportunities for psoriasis. However, the application of JAK inhibitors for the treatment of dermatological disorders is still in its early stages of development. This review summarizes available evidence in an attempt to identify knowledge gaps for conducting further research studies and improving clinical decision-making. Objective The objective of this study is to conduct a scoping review of the use of drugs targeting the JAK/STAT pathway in the treatment of psoriasis. Methods A priori protocol for scoping review was published in 2019. The Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewer's Manual and the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Review were used for the review. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and ClinicalTrials registry were referred to in April 2019 and March 2021, respectively. References in English involving evidence on the use of drugs targeting the JAK/STAT pathway in patients with psoriasis were included. Data charting was performed by two authors using tables and figures. Results The evidence found on the efficacy and safety of drugs targeting the JAK/STAT pathway in patients with psoriasis comes from 118 articles reporting the results of 34 randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Nine different drugs administered through various routes were identified (systemic: peficitinib, baricitinib, solcitinib, itacitinib, abrocitinib, deucravacitinib, and brepocitinib; topical: ruxolitinib; and both: tofacitinib). Knowledge articles are mainly created and published by pharmaceutical companies and authors through their own funding or by those related to them. Only tofacitinib and deucravacitinib have undergone phase III clinical trials, being the only ones tested with active comparators etanercept and apremilast, respectively. Proportions of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) were the efficacy variables most frequently studied in systemic treatments. Only two RCTs declared the safety data collected by systematic assessment; the only systemic drug with phase III data was tofacitinib. Tofacitinib 5 mg two times daily (BID)/10 mg BID efficacy was compared with etanercept 50 mg/week and a placebo. At 12–16 weeks, PASI 75/PGA 01 ranges were as follows: 38.07–80%/37.16–67.4% for tofacitinib 5 mg BID; 54.79–100%/50–75.6% for tofacitinib 10 mg BID; 58.8/66.8% for etanercept, date from one only study; and 0–33.3%/9.04–33.3% for the placebo group. Other drugs in earlier stages of development showed values within these ranges. The most frequent adverse events (AEs) were nasopharyngitis and upper respiratory tract infections in all treatment groups. Conclusion There is increasing evidence on the use of drugs targeting the JAK/STAT pathway as a treatment for psoriasis, although they are in the early phases of development. The trials conducted to date have been financed directly or indirectly by the pharmaceutical industry, which must be taken into account when interpreting the results of the trials. Psoriasis treatment is currently symptomatic and could potentially present a significant risk of toxicity. Therefore, the design of principal efficacy outcome measures considering the impact of the outcome on quality of life and a drug assessment methodology aimed at improving safety would probably strengthen the evidence and decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Gómez-García
- Inflammatory Immune-Mediated Chronic Skin Diseases' Laboratory, Insituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Dermatology, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Pedro Jesús Gómez-Arias
- Inflammatory Immune-Mediated Chronic Skin Diseases' Laboratory, Insituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Dermatology, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ana Montilla-López
- Inflammatory Immune-Mediated Chronic Skin Diseases' Laboratory, Insituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | | | - Juan Luís Sanz-Cabanillas
- Inflammatory Immune-Mediated Chronic Skin Diseases' Laboratory, Insituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Dermatology, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan Ruano
- Inflammatory Immune-Mediated Chronic Skin Diseases' Laboratory, Insituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Dermatology, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
- *Correspondence: Juan Ruano
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35
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Bier J, Deenick EK. The role of dysregulated PI3Kdelta signaling in human autoimmunity*. Immunol Rev 2022; 307:134-144. [DOI: 10.1111/imr.13067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Bier
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research Darlinghurst New South Wales Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School Faculty of Medicine and Health UNSW Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Elissa K. Deenick
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research Darlinghurst New South Wales Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health UNSW Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
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36
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Interleukin 21 Receptor Affects Adipogenesis of Human Adipose-Derived Stem/Stromal Cells. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:4930932. [PMID: 35047041 PMCID: PMC8763493 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4930932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunctions in adipose tissue cells are responsible for several obesity-related metabolic diseases. Understanding the process of adipocyte formation is thus fundamental for understanding these diseases. The adipocyte differentiation of adipose-derived stem/stromal cells (ADSCs) showed a reduction in the mRNA level of the interleukin 21 receptor (IL21R) during this process. Although the receptor has been associated with metabolic diseases, few studies have examined its function in stem cells. In this study, we used confocal immunofluorescence assays to determine that IL21R colocalizes with mitochondrial protein ATP5B, ALDH4A1, and the nucleus of human ADSCs. We demonstrated that silencing and overexpression of IL21R did not affect the cell proliferation and mitochondrial activity of ADSCs. However, IL21R silencing did reduce ADSC adipogenic capacity. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanism involved between IL21R and the adipogenic differentiation process.
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37
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Zhong S, Zhang T, Tang L, Li Y. Cytokines and Chemokines in HBV Infection. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:805625. [PMID: 34926586 PMCID: PMC8674621 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.805625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a leading cause of hepatic inflammation and damage. The pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection is predominantly mediated by persistent intrahepatic immunopathology. With the characterization of unique anatomical and immunological structure, the liver is also deemed an immunological organ, which gives rise to massive cytokines and chemokines under pathogenesis conditions, having significant implications for the progression of HBV infection. The intrahepatic innate immune system is responsible for the formidable source of cytokines and chemokines, with the latter also derived from hepatic parenchymal cells. In addition, systemic cytokines and chemokines are disturbed along with the disease course. Since HBV is a stealth virus, persistent exposure to HBV-related antigens confers to immune exhaustion, whereby regulatory cells are recruited by intrahepatic chemokines and cytokines, including interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor β, are involved in such series of causal events. Although the considerable value of two types of available approved treatment, interferons and nucleos(t)ide analogues, effectively suppress HBV replication, neither of them is sufficient for optimal restoration of the immunological attrition state to win the battle of the functional or virological cure of CHB infection. Notably, cytokines and chemokines play a crucial role in regulating the immune response. They exert effects by directly acting on HBV or indirectly manipulating target immune cells. As such, specific cytokines and chemokines, with a potential possibility to serve as novel immunological interventions, combined with those that target the virus itself, seem to be promising prospects in curative CHB infection. Here, we systematically review the recent literature that elucidates cytokine and chemokine-mediated pathogenesis and immune exhaustion of HBV infection and their dynamics triggered by current mainstream anti-HBV therapy. The predictive value of disease progression or control and the immunotherapies target of specific major cytokines and chemokines in CHB infection will also be delineated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihong Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianling Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Libo Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongyin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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38
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Zotos D, Quast I, Li-Wai-Suen CSN, McKenzie CI, Robinson MJ, Kan A, Smyth GK, Hodgkin PD, Tarlinton DM. The concerted change in the distribution of cell cycle phases and zone composition in germinal centers is regulated by IL-21. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7160. [PMID: 34887406 PMCID: PMC8660905 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27477-0] [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: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Humoral immune responses require germinal centres (GC) for antibody affinity maturation. Within GC, B cell proliferation and mutation are segregated from affinity-based positive selection in the dark zone (DZ) and light zone (LZ) substructures, respectively. While IL-21 is known to be important in affinity maturation and GC maintenance, here we show it is required for both establishing normal zone representation and preventing the accumulation of cells in the G1 cell cycle stage in the GC LZ. Cell cycle progression of DZ B cells is unaffected by IL-21 availability, as is the zone phenotype of the most highly proliferative GC B cells. Collectively, this study characterises the development of GC zones as a function of time and B cell proliferation and identifies IL-21 as an important regulator of these processes. These data help explain the requirement for IL-21 in normal antibody affinity maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Zotos
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Isaak Quast
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Connie S N Li-Wai-Suen
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melboure, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Craig I McKenzie
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Marcus J Robinson
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Andrey Kan
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- School of Computer Science, University of Adelaide, Frome Rd, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - Gordon K Smyth
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melboure, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Philip D Hodgkin
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - David M Tarlinton
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, 89 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
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Zhao S, Wang C, Lu P, Lou Y, Liu H, Wang T, Yang S, Bao Z, Han L, Liang X, Ma C, Gao L. Switch receptor T3/28 improves long-term persistence and antitumor efficacy of CAR-T cells. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-003176. [PMID: 34853180 PMCID: PMC8638458 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have been successfully used in tumor immunotherapy due to their strong antitumor responses, especially in hematological malignancies such as B cell acute lymphoid leukemia. However, on-target off-tumor toxicity and poor persistence severely limit the clinical application of CAR-T cell therapy. Methods T-cell immunoglobulin mucin domain molecule 3 (TIM-3) was used to develop a second-generation 41BB CD19 CAR linked with a T3/28 chimera, in which truncated extracellular TIM-3 was fused with the CD28 transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains. The efficacy of T3/28 CAR-T cells was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Results We demonstrated that the switch receptor T3/28 preserved the TCM phenotype, improved proliferative capacity, and reduced exhaustion of CAR-T cells, resulting in superior in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity in B lymphoma. Importantly, the switch receptor T3/28 substantially prolonged the persistence of CAR-T cells, and the interleukin-21/Stat3 axis probably contributed to the enhanced cytotoxicity of T3/28 CAR-T cells. Conclusion Overall, the T3/28 chimera significantly prolonged the persistence of CAR-T cells, and T3/28 CAR-T cells possessed potent antitumor activity in mice, shedding new light on potential improvements in adoptive T cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songbo Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chunhua Wang
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Ping Lu
- Department of Hematology, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, Shandong, China
| | - Yalin Lou
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Huimin Liu
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Biomedical Sciences College & Shandong Medicinal Biotechnology Centre, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shanshan Yang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ziyou Bao
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lin Han
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaohong Liang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chunhong Ma
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lifen Gao
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Kim DH, Kim HY, Lee WW. Induction of Unique STAT Heterodimers by IL-21 Provokes IL-1RI Expression on CD8 + T Cells, Resulting in Enhanced IL-1β Dependent Effector Function. Immune Netw 2021; 21:e33. [PMID: 34796037 PMCID: PMC8568912 DOI: 10.4110/in.2021.21.e33] [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: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
IL-1β plays critical roles in the priming and effector phases of immune responses such as the differentiation, commitment, and memory formation of T cells. In this context, several reports have suggested that the IL-1β signal is crucial for CTL-mediated immune responses to viral infections and tumors. However, little is known regarding whether IL-1β acts directly on CD8+ T cells and what the molecular mechanisms underlying expression of IL-1 receptors (IL-1Rs) on CD8+ T cells and features of IL-1R+CD8+ T cells are. Here, we provide evidence that the expression of IL-1R type I (IL-1RI), the functional receptor of IL-1β, is preferentially induced by IL-21 on TCR-stimulated CD8+ T cells. Further, IL-1β enhances the effector function of CD8+ T cells expressing IL-21-induced IL-1RI by increasing cytokine production and release of cytotoxic granules containing granzyme B. The IL-21-IL-1RI-IL-1β axis is involved in an augmented effector function through regulation of transcription factors BATF, Blimp-1, and IRF4. Moreover, this axis confers a unique effector function to CD8+ T cells compared to conventional type 1 cytotoxic T cells differentiated with IL-12. Chemical inhibitor and immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that IL-21 induces a unique pattern of STAT activation with the formation of both STAT1:STAT3 and STAT3:STAT5 heterodimers, which are critical for the induction of IL-1RI on TCR-stimulated CD8+ T cells. Taken together, we propose that induction of a novel subset of IL-1RI-expressing CD8+ T cells by IL-21 may be beneficial to the protective immune response against viral infections and is therefore important to consider for vaccine design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hyun Kim
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Inflammation (LAI), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Hee Young Kim
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Inflammation (LAI), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Infectious Diseases, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Won-Woo Lee
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Inflammation (LAI), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Infectious Diseases, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Cancer Research Institute and Ischemic/Hypoxic Disease Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Seoul National University Hospital Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul 03080, Korea
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41
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Pietrobon V, Todd LA, Goswami A, Stefanson O, Yang Z, Marincola F. Improving CAR T-Cell Persistence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910828. [PMID: 34639168 PMCID: PMC8509430 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade remarkable progress has been made in enhancing the efficacy of CAR T therapies. However, the clinical benefits are still limited, especially in solid tumors. Even in hematological settings, patients that respond to CAR T therapies remain at risk of relapsing due to several factors including poor T-cell expansion and lack of long-term persistence after adoptive transfer. This issue is even more evident in solid tumors, as the tumor microenvironment negatively influences the survival, infiltration, and activity of T-cells. Limited persistence remains a significant hindrance to the development of effective CAR T therapies due to several determinants, which are encountered from the cell manufacturing step and onwards. CAR design and ex vivo manipulation, including culture conditions, may play a pivotal role. Moreover, previous chemotherapy and lymphodepleting treatments may play a relevant role. In this review, the main causes for decreased persistence of CAR T-cells in patients will be discussed, focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying T-cell exhaustion. The approaches taken so far to overcome these limitations and to create exhaustion-resistant T-cells will be described. We will also examine the knowledge gained from several key clinical trials and highlight the molecular mechanisms determining T-cell stemness, as promoting stemness may represent an attractive approach to improve T-cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violena Pietrobon
- Refuge Biotechnologies, Inc., Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (A.G.); (O.S.); (Z.Y.)
- Correspondence: (V.P.); (F.M.)
| | - Lauren Anne Todd
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
| | - Anghsumala Goswami
- Refuge Biotechnologies, Inc., Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (A.G.); (O.S.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Ofir Stefanson
- Refuge Biotechnologies, Inc., Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (A.G.); (O.S.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Zhifen Yang
- Refuge Biotechnologies, Inc., Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (A.G.); (O.S.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Francesco Marincola
- Kite Pharma, Inc., Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
- Correspondence: (V.P.); (F.M.)
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42
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Bonte S, de Munter S, Billiet L, Goetgeluk G, Ingels J, Jansen H, Pille M, de Cock L, Weening K, Taghon T, Leclercq G, Vandekerckhove B, Kerre T. In vitro OP9-DL1 co-culture and subsequent maturation in the presence of IL-21 generates tumor antigen-specific T cells with a favorable less-differentiated phenotype and enhanced functionality. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1954800. [PMID: 34367734 PMCID: PMC8312599 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1954800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
T cell receptor (TCR)-redirected T cells target intracellular antigens such as Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1), a tumor-associated antigen overexpressed in several malignancies, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). For both chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)- and TCR-redirected T cells, several clinical studies indicate that T cell subsets with a less-differentiated phenotype (e.g. stem cell memory T cells, TSCM) survive longer and mediate superior anti-tumor effects in vivo as opposed to more terminally differentiated T cells. Cytokines added during in vitro and ex vivo culture of T cells play an important role in driving the phenotype of T cells for adoptive transfer. Using the OP9-DL1 co-culture system, we have shown previously that we are able to generate in vitro, starting from clinically relevant stem cell sources, T cells with a single tumor antigen (TA)-specific TCR. This method circumvents possible TCR chain mispairing and unwanted toxicities that might occur when introducing a TA-specific TCR in peripheral blood lymphocytes. We now show that we are able to optimize our in vitro culture protocol, by adding IL-21 during maturation, resulting in generation of TA-specific T cells with a less-differentiated phenotype and enhanced in vitro anti-tumor effects. We believe the favorable TSCM-like phenotype of these in vitro generated T cells preludes superior in vivo persistence and anti-tumor efficacy. Therefore, these TA-specific T cells could be of use as a valuable new form of patient-tailored T cell immunotherapy for malignancies for which finding a suitable CAR-T target antigen is challenging, such as AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bonte
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stijn de Munter
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lore Billiet
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Glenn Goetgeluk
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joline Ingels
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hanne Jansen
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Melissa Pille
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Laurenz de Cock
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karin Weening
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Taghon
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Georges Leclercq
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart Vandekerckhove
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tessa Kerre
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Hematology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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43
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Ren HM, Lukacher AE, Rahman ZSM, Olsen NJ. New developments implicating IL-21 in autoimmune disease. J Autoimmun 2021; 122:102689. [PMID: 34224936 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2021.102689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Elevated interleukin (IL)-21 is a common finding in the tissues and/or sera of patients with autoimmune disease. CD4 T cells are the primary producers of IL-21; often the IL-21 producing CD4 T cells will express molecules associated with follicular helper cells (TFH). Recent work has shown that the CD4 T cell-derived IL-21 is able to promote effector functions and memory differentiation of CD8 T cells in chronic infections and cancer. Autoimmunity has similarities to chronic infections and cancer. However, CD4 T cell-derived IL-21:IL21R signaling in CD8 T cells has not been fully appreciated in the context of autoimmunity. In this review, we assess the current knowledge regarding CD4 T cell-derived IL-21 and IL21R signaling within CD8 T cells and evaluate what implications it has within several autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematous, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, psoriasis, Sjögren's syndrome, vitiligo, antiphospholipid syndrome, pemphigus, and giant cell arteritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather M Ren
- MD/PhD Medical Scientist Training Program at Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
| | - Aron E Lukacher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Ziaur S M Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Nancy J Olsen
- Devision of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Penn State MS Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
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44
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Niogret J, Berger H, Rebe C, Mary R, Ballot E, Truntzer C, Thibaudin M, Derangère V, Hibos C, Hampe L, Rageot D, Accogli T, Joubert P, Routy B, Harker J, Vegran F, Ghiringhelli F, Chalmin F. Follicular helper-T cells restore CD8 +-dependent antitumor immunity and anti-PD-L1/PD-1 efficacy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2020-002157. [PMID: 34103351 PMCID: PMC8190041 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-002157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background T follicular helper cells (Tfh) are essential to shape B cell response during germinal center formation. Tfh accumulation has been reported in various human cancers, with positive or negative prognostic roles. However, the mechanisms explaining the accumulation of Tfh and their role in cancer remain obscure. Methods In vitro differentiated and mouse cell sorted Tfh phenotype was evaluated by flow cytometry and quantitative PCR (qPCR). Antitumor effect of Tfh was evaluated by adoptive transfer in different tumor-bearing mice models. The involvement of immune cells, cytokines and chemokines was evaluated, using depleting antibodies. Chemokines and cytokines expression and production were evaluated by qPCR and ELISA. In human, the impact of immune cells and chemokines on survival was evaluated by analyzing transcriptomic data from public databases and from our own patient cohorts. Results In this study, we show that Tfh exert an antitumor immune effect in a CD8+-dependent manner. Tfh produce interleukin-21, which sustains proliferation, viability, cytokine production and cytotoxic functions of exhausted T cells. The presence of Tfh is required for efficacy of antiprogrammed cell death ligand-1 therapy. Tfh accumulate in the tumor bed and draining lymph nodes in different mouse cancer models. This recruitment is due to the capacity of transforming growth factor β to drive Chemokine (C-X-C motif) Ligand 13 expression, a chemoattractant of Tfh, by intratumor CD8+ T cells. Accumulation of Tfh and exhausted CD8+ T cells predicts cancer outcome in various cancer types. In patients treated with anti-programmed cell death-1 mAb, accumulation of Tfh and CD8+ at the tumor site is associated with outcome. Conclusion This study provides evidence that CD8+/Tfh crosstalk is important in shaping antitumor immune response generated by immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Niogret
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France
| | - Hélène Berger
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France
| | - Cédric Rebe
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France.,Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.,Genetic and Immunology Medical Institute, Dijon, France
| | - Romain Mary
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France
| | - Elise Ballot
- Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.,Genetic and Immunology Medical Institute, Dijon, France
| | - Caroline Truntzer
- Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France.,Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.,Genetic and Immunology Medical Institute, Dijon, France
| | - Marion Thibaudin
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France.,Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.,Genetic and Immunology Medical Institute, Dijon, France
| | - Valentin Derangère
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France.,Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.,Genetic and Immunology Medical Institute, Dijon, France
| | - Christophe Hibos
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France
| | - Léa Hampe
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
| | | | - Théo Accogli
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Philippe Joubert
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bertrand Routy
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - James Harker
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Frederique Vegran
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France
| | - Francois Ghiringhelli
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France .,Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.,Univ Burgundy Franche Comte, Dijon, France.,Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France.,Genetic and Immunology Medical Institute, Dijon, France
| | - Fanny Chalmin
- Centre de Recherche INSERM LNC-UMR1231, Dijon, France.,Cancer Biology Transfer Platform, Centre Georges-François Leclerc, Dijon, France
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Bell M, Gottschalk S. Engineered Cytokine Signaling to Improve CAR T Cell Effector Function. Front Immunol 2021; 12:684642. [PMID: 34177932 PMCID: PMC8220823 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.684642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Adoptive immunotherapy with T cells genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) is a promising approach to improve outcomes for cancer patients. While CAR T cell therapy is effective for hematological malignancies, there is a need to improve the efficacy of this therapeutic approach for patients with solid tumors and brain tumors. At present, several approaches are being pursued to improve the antitumor activity of CAR T cells including i) targeting multiple antigens, ii) improving T cell expansion/persistence, iii) enhancing homing to tumor sites, and iv) rendering CAR T cells resistant to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Augmenting signal 3 of T cell activation by transgenic expression of cytokines or engineered cytokine receptors has emerged as a promising strategy since it not only improves CAR T cell expansion/persistence but also their ability to function in the immunosuppressive TME. In this review, we will provide an overview of cytokine biology and highlight genetic approaches that are actively being pursued to augment cytokine signaling in CAR T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Bell
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States.,Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Stephen Gottschalk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
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46
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Du L, Nai Y, Shen M, Li T, Huang J, Han X, Wang W, Pang D, Jin A. IL-21 Optimizes the CAR-T Cell Preparation Through Improving Lentivirus Mediated Transfection Efficiency of T Cells and Enhancing CAR-T Cell Cytotoxic Activities. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:675179. [PMID: 34179083 PMCID: PMC8220804 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.675179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive immunotherapy using CAR-T cells is a promising curative treatment strategy for hematological malignancies. Current manufacture of clinical-grade CAR-T cells based on lentiviral/retrovirus transfection of T cells followed by anti-CD3/CD28 activation supplemented with IL-2 has been associated with low transfection efficiency and usually based on the use of terminally differentiated effector T cells. Thus, improving the quality and the quantity of CAR-T cells are essential for optimizing the CAR-T cell preparation. In our study, we focus on the role of IL-21 in the γc cytokine conditions for CAR-T cell preparation. We found for the first time that the addition of IL-21 in the CAR-T preparation improved T cell transfection efficiency through the reduction of IFN-γ expression 24-48 h after T cell activation. We also confirmed that IL-21 enhanced the enrichment and expansion of less differentiated CAR-T cells. Finally, we validated that IL-21 improved the CAR-T cell cytotoxicity, which was related to increased secretion of effector cytokines. Together, these findings can be used to optimize the CAR-T cell preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Du
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research of Tumor Immunology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaru Nai
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research of Tumor Immunology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Meiying Shen
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research of Tumor Immunology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingjing Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research of Tumor Immunology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaojian Han
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research of Tumor Immunology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wang Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research of Tumor Immunology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Da Pang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Aishun Jin
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research of Tumor Immunology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Cagdas D, Mayr D, Baris S, Worley L, Langley DB, Metin A, Aytekin ES, Atan R, Kasap N, Bal SK, Dmytrus J, Heredia RJ, Karasu G, Torun SH, Toyran M, Karakoc-Aydiner E, Christ D, Kuskonmaz B, Uçkan-Çetinkaya D, Uner A, Oberndorfer F, Schiefer AI, Uzel G, Deenick EK, Keller B, Warnatz K, Neven B, Durandy A, Sanal O, Ma CS, Özen A, Stepensky P, Tezcan I, Boztug K, Tangye SG. Genomic Spectrum and Phenotypic Heterogeneity of Human IL-21 Receptor Deficiency. J Clin Immunol 2021; 41:1272-1290. [PMID: 33929673 PMCID: PMC8086229 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-021-01031-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Biallelic inactivating mutations in IL21R causes a combined immunodeficiency that is often complicated by cryptosporidium infections. While eight IL-21R-deficient patients have been reported previously, the natural course, immune characteristics of disease, and response to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) remain to be comprehensively examined. In our study, we have collected clinical histories of 13 patients with IL-21R deficiency from eight families across seven centers worldwide, including five novel patients identified by exome or NGS panel sequencing. Eight unique mutations in IL21R were identified in these patients, including two novel mutations. Median age at disease onset was 2.5 years (0.5–7 years). The main clinical manifestations were recurrent bacterial (84.6%), fungal (46.2%), and viral (38.5%) infections; cryptosporidiosis-associated cholangitis (46.2%); and asthma (23.1%). Inflammatory skin diseases (15.3%) and recurrent anaphylaxis (7.9%) constitute novel phenotypes of this combined immunodeficiency. Most patients exhibited hypogammaglobulinemia and reduced proportions of memory B cells, circulating T follicular helper cells, MAIT cells and terminally differentiated NK cells. However, IgE levels were elevated in 50% of IL-21R-deficient patients. Overall survival following HSCT (6 patients, mean follow-up 1.8 year) was 33.3%, with pre-existing organ damage constituting a negative prognostic factor. Mortality of non-transplanted patients (n = 7) was 57.1%. Our detailed analysis of the largest cohort of IL-21R-deficient patients to date provides in-depth clinical, immunological and immunophenotypic features of these patients, thereby establishing critical non-redundant functions of IL-21/IL-21R signaling in lymphocyte differentiation, humoral immunity and host defense against infection, and mechanisms of disease pathogenesis due to IL-21R deficiency. Outcome following HSCT depends on prior chronic infections and organ damage, which should thus be considered as early as possible following molecular diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Cagdas
- Division of Pediatric Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, İhsan Doğramacı Children's Hospital, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey.
- Section of Pediatric Immunology, Institutes of Child Health, Health Science Institute, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Daniel Mayr
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Safa Baris
- Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey
- The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Lisa Worley
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2010, Australia
- St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - David B Langley
- St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ayse Metin
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Ankara City Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Elif Soyak Aytekin
- Division of Pediatric Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, İhsan Doğramacı Children's Hospital, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Raziye Atan
- Department of Pediatrics, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty, 1031, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nurhan Kasap
- Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey
- The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevgi Köstel Bal
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jasmin Dmytrus
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Raul Jimenez Heredia
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gulsun Karasu
- School of Medicine, Goztepe Medicalpark Hospital, Pediatric stem Cell Transplantation Unit, İstinye University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Selda Hancerli Torun
- İstanbul Medical Faculty, Pediatric Infectious Disease, Istanbul University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Muge Toyran
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Ankara City Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Elif Karakoc-Aydiner
- Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey
- The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Daniel Christ
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2010, Australia
- St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Baris Kuskonmaz
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Duygu Uçkan-Çetinkaya
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aysegul Uner
- Department of Pathology, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Ana-Iris Schiefer
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gulbu Uzel
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Elissa K Deenick
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2010, Australia
- St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Baerbel Keller
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency (CCI), Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Warnatz
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency (CCI), Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bénédicte Neven
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Hematology and Rheumatology, Necker Children Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Anne Durandy
- Laboratory of Human Lymphohematopoiesis, Imagine Institute, INSERM UMR 1163, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Ozden Sanal
- Division of Pediatric Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, İhsan Doğramacı Children's Hospital, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
- Section of Pediatric Immunology, Institutes of Child Health, Health Science Institute, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cindy S Ma
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2010, Australia
- St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ahmet Özen
- Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Istanbul, Turkey
- The Isil Berat Barlan Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Polina Stepensky
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ilhan Tezcan
- Division of Pediatric Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, İhsan Doğramacı Children's Hospital, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
- Section of Pediatric Immunology, Institutes of Child Health, Health Science Institute, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kaan Boztug
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria.
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria.
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria.
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- St. Anna Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Stuart G Tangye
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2010, Australia.
- St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia.
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Liu E, Ang SOT, Kerbauy L, Basar R, Kaur I, Kaplan M, Li L, Tong Y, Daher M, Ensley EL, Uprety N, Nunez Cortes AK, Yang RZ, Li Y, Shaim H, Reyes Silva F, Lin P, Mohanty V, Acharya S, Shanley M, Muniz-Feliciano L, Banerjee PP, Chen K, Champlin RE, Shpall EJ, Rezvani K. GMP-Compliant Universal Antigen Presenting Cells (uAPC) Promote the Metabolic Fitness and Antitumor Activity of Armored Cord Blood CAR-NK Cells. Front Immunol 2021; 12:626098. [PMID: 33717142 PMCID: PMC7952299 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.626098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes recognized for their important role against tumor cells. NK cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have enhanced effector function against various type of cancer and are attractive contenders for the next generation of cancer immunotherapies. However, a number of factors have hindered the application of NK cells for cellular therapy, including their poor in vitro growth kinetics and relatively low starting percentages within the mononuclear cell fraction of peripheral blood or cord blood (CB). To overcome these limitations, we genetically-engineered human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A- and HLA-B- K562 cells to enforce the expression of CD48, 4-1BBL, and membrane-bound IL-21 (mbIL21), creating a universal antigen presenting cell (uAPC) capable of stimulating their cognate receptors on NK cells. We have shown that uAPC can drive the expansion of both non-transduced (NT) and CAR-transduced CB derived NK cells by >900-fold in 2 weeks of co-culture with excellent purity (>99.9%) and without indications of senescence/exhaustion. We confirmed that uAPC-expanded research- and clinical-grade NT and CAR-transduced NK cells have higher metabolic fitness and display enhanced effector function against tumor targets compared to the corresponding cell fractions cultured without uAPCs. This novel approach allowed the expansion of highly pure GMP-grade CAR NK cells at optimal cell numbers to be used for adoptive CAR NK cell-based cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enli Liu
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sonny O. T. Ang
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lucila Kerbauy
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Departments of Stem Cell Transplantation and Hemotherapy/Cellular Therapy, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Saõ Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, Biosciences Institute, University of Saõ Paulo, Saõ Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafet Basar
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Indreshpal Kaur
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mecit Kaplan
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Li Li
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Yijiu Tong
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - May Daher
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Emily L. Ensley
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nadima Uprety
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ana Karen Nunez Cortes
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ryan Z. Yang
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ye Li
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hila Shaim
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Francia Reyes Silva
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Paul Lin
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Vakul Mohanty
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sunil Acharya
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mayra Shanley
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Luis Muniz-Feliciano
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Pinaki P. Banerjee
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ken Chen
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Richard E. Champlin
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Elizabeth J. Shpall
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Katayoun Rezvani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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49
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Huang H, Ran H, Liu X, Yu L, Qiu L, Lin Z, Ou C, Lu Y, Yang W, Liu W. Leflunomide ameliorates experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis by regulating humoral and cellular immune responses. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 93:107434. [PMID: 33556668 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Leflunomide, an immunosuppressive disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD), is widely used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PA) as well as multiple sclerosis. However, its role in myasthenia gravis (MG) has not yet been clearly explored. Here, we investigated the effect of leflunomide on experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) in vivo and in vitro. The results demonstrated that leflunomide alleviated the severity of EAMG associated with reduced serum total anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) IgG levels. During the development of EAMG, the increase of follicular helper T cells (Tfh) 1, Tfh 17 cells and decrease of follicular regulatory T cells (Tfr) were reversely altered after leflunomide administration. Our work further found that leflunomide might inhibit Tfh cells through the IL-21/STAT3 pathway to reduce the secretion of antibodies by B cells. In addition, leflunomide rebuilt the balance of Th1/Th2/Th17/Treg subsets. These results suggested that leflunomide ameliorated EAMG severity by regulating humoral immune responses and Th cell profiles thereby providing a novel effective treatment strategy for MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Hao Ran
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Xiaoxi Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Lu Yu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Li Qiu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Zhongqiang Lin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Changyi Ou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Yaru Lu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Wenhao Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Weibin Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China.
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50
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Montazersaheb S, Fathi E, Farahzadi R. Cytokines and signaling pathways involved in differentiation potential of hematopoietic stem cells towards natural killer cells. Tissue Cell 2021; 70:101501. [PMID: 33578272 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
NK cells are innate immune cells derived from common lymphoid progenitor and are developed primarily in the bone marrow. These cells respond to stress signals, inflammatory cytokines, and cancerous cells through the secretion of active immune mediators. Previous studies revealed that NK cells can be used as an essential cell in the defense against cancers. According to the literature, a set of cytokines and factors play a crucial role during differentiation of NK cells. In other words, developmental events of NK cells are regulated through multiple critical cytokines, including interleukins (ILs), kit ligand, fms-like tyrosine kinase three ligand, transforming growth factor-β, and typical γ chain family of cytokines. Among previously investigated ILs, IL-2, IL-3, IL-7, and IL-15 are the most important. In addition to ILs, transcription factors and MicroRNAs are involved in NK cell development. In this review study, after presenting a brief description of developmental stages and production of the NK cells, the factors and signaling pathways involved in differentiation of NK cells were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheila Montazersaheb
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ezzatollah Fathi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Raheleh Farahzadi
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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