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Anderson G, Cosway EJ, James KD, Ohigashi I, Takahama Y. Generation and repair of thymic epithelial cells. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20230894. [PMID: 38980292 PMCID: PMC11232892 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20230894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
In the vertebrate immune system, thymus stromal microenvironments support the generation of αβT cells from immature thymocytes. Thymic epithelial cells are of particular importance, and the generation of cortical and medullary epithelial lineages from progenitor stages controls the initiation and maintenance of thymus function. Here, we discuss the developmental pathways that regulate thymic epithelial cell diversity during both the embryonic and postnatal periods. We also examine how thymus microenvironments respond to injury, with particular focus on mechanisms that ensure regeneration of thymic epithelial cells for the restoration of thymus function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Anderson
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham , Birmingham, UK
| | - Emilie J Cosway
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham , Birmingham, UK
| | - Kieran D James
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham , Birmingham, UK
| | - Izumi Ohigashi
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yousuke Takahama
- Thymus Biology Section, Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health , Bethesda, MD, USA
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2
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Cosway EJ, James KD, White AJ, Parnell SM, Bacon A, McKenzie ANJ, Jenkinson WE, Anderson G. The alarmin IL33 orchestrates type 2 immune-mediated control of thymus regeneration. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7201. [PMID: 37938566 PMCID: PMC10632327 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43072-x] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
As the primary site of T-cell development, the thymus dictates immune competency of the host. The rates of thymus function are not constant, and thymus regeneration is essential to restore new T-cell production following tissue damage from environmental factors and therapeutic interventions. Here, we show the alarmin interleukin (IL) 33 is a product of Sca1+ thymic mesenchyme both necessary and sufficient for thymus regeneration via a type 2 innate immune network. IL33 stimulates expansion of IL5-producing type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2), which triggers a cellular switch in the intrathymic availability of IL4. This enables eosinophil production of IL4 to re-establish thymic mesenchyme prior to recovery of thymopoiesis-inducing epithelial compartments. Collectively, we identify a positive feedback mechanism of type 2 innate immunity that regulates the recovery of thymus function following tissue injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie J Cosway
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kieran D James
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrea J White
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sonia M Parnell
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrea Bacon
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - W E Jenkinson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Graham Anderson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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3
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Hino C, Xu Y, Xiao J, Baylink DJ, Reeves ME, Cao H. The potential role of the thymus in immunotherapies for acute myeloid leukemia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1102517. [PMID: 36814919 PMCID: PMC9940763 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1102517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the factors which shape T-lymphocyte immunity is critical for the development and application of future immunotherapeutic strategies in treating hematological malignancies. The thymus, a specialized central lymphoid organ, plays important roles in generating a diverse T lymphocyte repertoire during the infantile and juvenile stages of humans. However, age-associated thymic involution and diseases or treatment associated injury result in a decline in its continuous role in the maintenance of T cell-mediated anti-tumor/virus immunity. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy that mainly affects older adults, and the disease's progression is known to consist of an impaired immune surveillance including a reduction in naïve T cell output, a restriction in T cell receptor repertoire, and an increase in frequencies of regulatory T cells. As one of the most successful immunotherapies thus far developed for malignancy, T-cell-based adoptive cell therapies could be essential for the development of a durable effective treatment to eliminate residue leukemic cells (blasts) and prevent AML relapse. Thus, a detailed cellular and molecular landscape of how the adult thymus functions within the context of the AML microenvironment will provide new insights into both the immune-related pathogenesis and the regeneration of a functional immune system against leukemia in AML patients. Herein, we review the available evidence supporting the potential correlation between thymic dysfunction and T-lymphocyte impairment with the ontogeny of AML (II-VI). We then discuss how the thymus could impact current and future therapeutic approaches in AML (VII). Finally, we review various strategies to rejuvenate thymic function to improve the precision and efficacy of cancer immunotherapy (VIII).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Hino
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Yi Xu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Loma Linda University Cancer Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Jeffrey Xiao
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - David J Baylink
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Mark E Reeves
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Loma Linda University Cancer Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Huynh Cao
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Loma Linda University Cancer Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
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4
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Rosichini M, Catanoso M, Screpanti I, Felli MP, Locatelli F, Velardi E. Signaling Crosstalks Drive Generation and Regeneration of the Thymus. Front Immunol 2022; 13:920306. [PMID: 35734178 PMCID: PMC9207182 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.920306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Optimal recovery of immune competence after periods of hematopoietic insults or stress is crucial to re-establish patient response to vaccines, pathogens and tumor antigens. This is particularly relevant for patients receiving high doses of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, who experience prolonged periods of lymphopenia, which can be associated with an increased risk of infections, malignant relapse, and adverse clinical outcome. While the thymus represents the primary organ responsible for the generation of a diverse pool of T cells, its function is profoundly impaired by a range of acute insults (including those caused by cytoreductive chemo/radiation therapy, infections and graft-versus-host disease) and by the chronic physiological deterioration associated with aging. Impaired thymic function increases the risk of infections and tumor antigen escape due to a restriction in T-cell receptor diversity and suboptimal immune response. Therapeutic approaches that can promote the renewal of the thymus have the potential to restore immune competence in patients. Previous work has documented the importance of the crosstalk between thymocytes and thymic epithelial cells in establishing correct architecture and function of thymic epithelium. This crosstalk is relevant not only during thymus organogenesis, but also to promote the recovery of its function after injuries. In this review, we will analyze the signals involved in the crosstalk between TECs and hematopoietic cells. We will focus in particular on how signals from T-cells can regulate TEC function and discuss the relevance of these pathways in restoring thymic function and T-cell immunity in experimental models, as well as in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rosichini
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marialuigia Catanoso
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Velardi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Enrico Velardi,
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5
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Bertaina A, Abraham A, Bonfim C, Cohen S, Purtill D, Ruggeri A, Weiss D, Wynn R, Boelens JJ, Prockop S. An ISCT Stem Cell Engineering Committee Position Statement on Immune Reconstitution: the importance of predictable and modifiable milestones of immune reconstitution to transplant outcomes. Cytotherapy 2022; 24:385-392. [PMID: 35331394 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.09.011] [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: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic stem cell transplantation is a potentially curative therapy for some malignant and non-malignant disease. There have been substantial advances since the approaches first introduced in the 1970s, and the development of approaches to transplant with HLA incompatible or alternative donors has improved access to transplant for those without a fully matched donor. However, success is still limited by morbidity and mortality from toxicity and imperfect disease control. Here we review our emerging understanding of how reconstitution of effective immunity after allogeneic transplant can protect from these events and improve outcomes. We provide perspective on milestones of immune reconstitution that are easily measured and modifiable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Bertaina
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, CETI, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Allistair Abraham
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Carmem Bonfim
- Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation Division, Hospital Pequeno Principe, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Sandra Cohen
- Université de Montréal and Maisonneuve Rosemont Hospital, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Duncan Purtill
- Department of Haematology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | | | - Robert Wynn
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jaap Jan Boelens
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Susan Prockop
- Stem Cell Transplant Program, Division of Hematology/Oncology Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
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6
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Wang H, Wang X, Xu L, Zhang J. TP53 inhibitor PFTα increases the sensitivity of arsenic trioxide in TP53 wild type tumor cells. FEBS Open Bio 2022; 12:616-626. [PMID: 35030298 PMCID: PMC8886521 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Arsenic trioxide (ATO) has been shown to be effective in treating acute promyelocytic leukemia. TP53 mutated/null tumor cells are more sensitive to ATO treatment compared to tumor cells carrying wild type TP53 gene copies. However, it is unclear whether TP53 inhibitors can increase the sensitivity of TP53 wild type tumor cells to ATO. Here, we show that breast, colon and lung cancer cell lines with mutated/null TP53 are more sensitive to ATO-induced cell growth inhibition than cells with wild type TP53. Moreover, inhibition of TP53 by a TP53 inhibitor, PFTα, increased the ATO sensitivity of TP53 wild type tumor cells, coincident with ATO-induced cell growth arrest and cell apoptosis. Furthermore, combined treatment with ATO and PFTα synergistically inhibited tumor growth in mouse xenografts in vivo. Through microarray transcriptional analysis, we found that ATO-regulated genes were associated with TP53 and cell cycle signaling pathways. Co-treatment with PFTα enhanced ATO induced dynamic transcriptional changes. Overall, our results provide evidences in using TP53 chemical inhibitors to enhance the ATO-mediated therapeutic response against TP53 wild type tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiwei Wang
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
| | - Xinrui Wang
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
| | - Liangpu Xu
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, Rui-Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
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7
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Constantin AM, Boşca AB, Melincovici CS, Mărginean MV, Jianu EM, Moldovan IM, Sufleţel RT, Djouini A, Şovrea AS, Şovrea AS. Short histological kaleidoscope - recent findings in histology. Part II. ROMANIAN JOURNAL OF MORPHOLOGY AND EMBRYOLOGY = REVUE ROUMAINE DE MORPHOLOGIE ET EMBRYOLOGIE 2022; 63:275-292. [PMID: 36374135 PMCID: PMC9801680 DOI: 10.47162/rjme.63.2.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This article focuses on the latest histological knowledge in the field regarding the peripheral lymphoid system [mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT), gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT)], the thymus stroma, some of the various corpuscles of the human body (Hassall's corpuscles in thymus, arenaceous corpuscles in pineal gland, corpora amylacea in prostate and other locations) and Fañanas glial cells in the cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Marie Constantin
- Discipline of Histology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adina Bianca Boşca
- Discipline of Histology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Carmen Stanca Melincovici
- Discipline of Histology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mariana Viorica Mărginean
- Discipline of Histology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Elena Mihaela Jianu
- Discipline of Histology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Maria Moldovan
- Discipline of Histology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Rada Teodora Sufleţel
- Discipline of Histology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Amina Djouini
- Ophthalmology Resident Physician, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Alina Simona Şovrea
- Discipline of Histology, Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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8
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Carlsen L, El-Deiry WS. Differential p53-Mediated Cellular Responses to DNA-Damaging Therapeutic Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111828. [PMID: 34769259 PMCID: PMC8584119 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The gene TP53, which encodes the tumor suppressor protein p53, is mutated in about 50% of cancers. In response to cell stressors like DNA damage and after treatment with DNA-damaging therapeutic agents, p53 acts as a transcription factor to activate subsets of target genes which carry out cell fates such as apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and DNA repair. Target gene selection by p53 is controlled by a complex regulatory network whose response varies across contexts including treatment type, cell type, and tissue type. The molecular basis of target selection across these contexts is not well understood. Knowledge gained from examining p53 regulatory network profiles across different DNA-damaging agents in different cell types and tissue types may inform logical ways to optimally manipulate the network to encourage p53-mediated tumor suppression and anti-tumor immunity in cancer patients. This may be achieved with combination therapies or with p53-reactivating targeted therapies. Here, we review the basics of the p53 regulatory network in the context of differential responses to DNA-damaging agents; discuss recent efforts to characterize differential p53 responses across treatment types, cell types, and tissue types; and examine the relevance of evaluating these responses in the tumor microenvironment. Finally, we address open questions including the potential relevance of alternative p53 transcriptional functions, p53 transcription-independent functions, and p53-independent functions in the response to DNA-damaging therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Carlsen
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA;
- The Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Brown University and the Lifespan Health System, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Cancer Center, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Wafik S. El-Deiry
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA;
- The Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Brown University and the Lifespan Health System, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Cancer Center, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology Division, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Correspondence:
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9
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Liu L, Huang S, Xu M, Gong Y, Li D, Wan C, Wu H, Tang Q. Isoquercitrin protects HUVECs against high glucose‑induced apoptosis through regulating p53 proteasomal degradation. Int J Mol Med 2021; 48:122. [PMID: 33982778 PMCID: PMC8121554 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
High glucose (HG)-induced endothelial apoptosis serves an important role in the vascular dysfunction associated with diabetes mellitus (DM). It has been reported that isoquercitrin (IQC), a flavonoid glucoside, possesses an anti-DM effect, but the mechanism requires further investigation. The present study investigated the effect of IQC against HG-induced apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and explored its molecular mechanism. HUVECs were treated with 5 or 30 mM glucose for 48 h. Endothelial cell viability was monitored using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by JC-1 staining. Apoptosis was observed by TUNEL staining and flow cytometry. Western blotting was used for the analysis of apoptosis-associated proteins Bax, Bcl-2, cleaved (C)-caspase3, total-caspase3, p53 and phosphorylated p53. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was used to analyze the mRNA expression levels of Bax, Bcl-2 and p53. Immunofluorescence staining was utilized to detect the expression levels and distribution of p53 and ubiquitin specific peptidase 10 (USP10) in HUVECs. The results revealed that IQC significantly attenuated HG-induced endothelial apoptosis, as shown by decreased apoptotic cells observed by TUNEL, JC-1 staining and flow cytometry. Moreover, under HG stress, IQC treatment markedly inhibited the increased expression levels of the pro-apoptotic proteins p53, Bax and C-caspase3, and increased the expression levels of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 in HUVECs. However, the anti-apoptotic effect of IQC against HG was partially blunted by increasing p53 protein levels in vitro. IQC influenced the mRNA expression levels of Bax and Bcl-2 in response to HG, but it did not affect the transcription of p53. Notably, IQC inhibited the HG-induced phosphorylation of p53 at Ser15 and the nuclear transport of USP10, destabilizing p53 and increasing the proteasomal degradation of the p53 protein. The current findings revealed that IQC exerted a protective effect against the HG-induced apoptosis of endothelial cells by regulating the proteasomal degradation of the p53 protein, suggesting that IQC may be used as a novel therapeutic compound to ameliorate DM-induced vascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Sihui Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Man Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yan Gong
- Pharmacy Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Chunxia Wan
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Haiming Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Qizhu Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
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10
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Irla M. RANK Signaling in the Differentiation and Regeneration of Thymic Epithelial Cells. Front Immunol 2021; 11:623265. [PMID: 33552088 PMCID: PMC7862717 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.623265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) provide essential clues for the proliferation, survival, migration, and differentiation of thymocytes. Recent advances in mouse and human have revealed that TECs constitute a highly heterogeneous cell population with distinct functional properties. Importantly, TECs are sensitive to thymic damages engendered by myeloablative conditioning regimen used for bone marrow transplantation. These detrimental effects on TECs delay de novo T-cell production, which can increase the risk of morbidity and mortality in many patients. Alike that TECs guide the development of thymocytes, reciprocally thymocytes control the differentiation and organization of TECs. These bidirectional interactions are referred to as thymic crosstalk. The tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) member, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B (RANK) and its cognate ligand RANKL have emerged as key players of the crosstalk between TECs and thymocytes. RANKL, mainly provided by positively selected CD4+ thymocytes and a subset of group 3 innate lymphoid cells, controls mTEC proliferation/differentiation and TEC regeneration. In this review, I discuss recent advances that have unraveled the high heterogeneity of TECs and the implication of the RANK-RANKL signaling axis in TEC differentiation and regeneration. Targeting this cell-signaling pathway opens novel therapeutic perspectives to recover TEC function and T-cell production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magali Irla
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, CIML, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
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11
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Singh J, Mohtashami M, Anderson G, Zúñiga-Pflücker JC. Thymic Engraftment by in vitro-Derived Progenitor T Cells in Young and Aged Mice. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1850. [PMID: 32973763 PMCID: PMC7462002 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells play a critical role in mediating antigen-specific and long-term immunity against viral and bacterial pathogens, and their development relies on the highly specialized thymic microenvironment. T cell immunodeficiency can be acquired in the form of inborn errors, or can result from perturbations to the thymus due to aging or irradiation/chemotherapy required for cancer treatment. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) from compatible donors is a cornerstone for the treatment of hematological malignancies and immunodeficiency. Although it can restore a functional immune system, profound impairments exist in recovery of the T cell compartment. T cells remain absent or low in number for many months after HSCT, depending on a variety of factors including the age of the recipient. While younger patients have a shorter refractory period, the prolonged T cell recovery observed in older patients can lead to a higher risk of opportunistic infections and increased predisposition to relapse. Thus, strategies for enhancing T cell recovery in aged individuals are needed to counter thymic damage induced by radiation and chemotherapy toxicities, in addition to naturally occurring age-related thymic involution. Preclinical results have shown that robust and rapid long-term thymic reconstitution can be achieved when progenitor T cells, generated in vitro from HSCs, are co-administered during HSCT. Progenitor T cells appear to rely on lymphostromal crosstalk via receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK) and RANK-ligand (RANKL) interactions, creating chemokine-rich niches within the cortex and medulla that likely favor the recruitment of bone marrow-derived thymus seeding progenitors. Here, we employed preclinical mouse models to demonstrate that in vitro-generated progenitor T cells can effectively engraft involuted aged thymuses, which could potentially improve T cell recovery. The utility of progenitor T cells for aged recipients positions them as a promising cellular therapy for immune recovery and intrathymic repair following irradiation and chemotherapy, even in a post-involution thymus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Graham Anderson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Juan Carlos Zúñiga-Pflücker
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
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12
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Alawam AS, Anderson G, Lucas B. Generation and Regeneration of Thymic Epithelial Cells. Front Immunol 2020; 11:858. [PMID: 32457758 PMCID: PMC7221188 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus is unique in its ability to support the maturation of phenotypically and functionally distinct T cell sub-lineages. Through its combined production of MHC-restricted conventional CD4+ and CD8+, and Foxp3+ regulatory T cells, as well as non-conventional CD1d-restricted iNKT cells and invariant γδT cells, the thymus represents an important orchestrator of immune system development and control. It is now clear that thymus function is largely determined by the availability of stromal microenvironments. These specialized areas emerge during thymus organogenesis and are maintained throughout life. They are formed from both epithelial and mesenchymal components, and collectively they support a stepwise program of thymocyte development. Of these stromal cells, cortical, and medullary thymic epithelial cells represent functional components of thymic microenvironments in both the cortex and medulla. Importantly, a key feature of thymus function is that levels of T cell production are not constant throughout life. Here, multiple physiological factors including aging, stress and pregnancy can have either short- or long-term detrimental impact on rates of thymus function. Here, we summarize our current understanding of the development and function of thymic epithelial cells, and relate this to strategies to protect and/or restore thymic epithelial cell function for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah S Alawam
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Graham Anderson
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Lucas
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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13
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Cytotoxic Effects of Rabbit Anti-thymocyte Globulin Preparations on Primary Human Thymic Epithelial Cells. Transplantation 2019; 103:2234-2244. [DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000002799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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14
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Wilke CA, Chadwick MM, Chan PR, Moore BB, Zhou X. Stem cell transplantation impairs dendritic cell trafficking and herpesvirus immunity. JCI Insight 2019; 4:130210. [PMID: 31479426 PMCID: PMC6795288 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.130210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term survivors after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation are at high risk of infection, which accounts for one-third of all deaths related to stem cell transplantation. Little is known about the cause of inferior host defense after immune cell reconstitution. Here, we exploited a murine syngeneic BM transplantation (BMT) model of late infection with murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) to determine the role of conventional DC (cDC) trafficking in adaptive immunity in BMT mice. After infection, the expression of chemokine Ccl21 in the lung is reduced and the migration of cDCs into lung draining lymph nodes (dLNs) is impaired in BMT mice, limiting the opportunity for cDCs to prime Th cells in the dLNs. While cDC subsets are redundant in priming Th1 cells, Notch2 functions in cDC2s are required for priming increased Th17 responses in BMT mice, and cDC1s can lessen this activity. Importantly, Th17 cells can be primed both in the lungs and dLNs, allowing for increased Th17 responses without optimum cDC trafficking in BMT mice. Taken together, impaired cDC trafficking in BMT mice reduces protective Th1 responses and allows increased pathogenic Th17 responses. Thus, we have revealed a previously unknown mechanism for BMT procedures to cause long-term inferior immune responses to herpes viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol A. Wilke
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mathew M. Chadwick
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Paul R. Chan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Bethany B. Moore
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Zhou
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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15
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Pouzolles M, Machado A, Guilbaud M, Irla M, Gailhac S, Barennes P, Cesana D, Calabria A, Benedicenti F, Sergé A, Raman I, Li QZ, Montini E, Klatzmann D, Adjali O, Taylor N, Zimmermann VS. Intrathymic adeno-associated virus gene transfer rapidly restores thymic function and long-term persistence of gene-corrected T cells. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2019; 145:679-697.e5. [PMID: 31513879 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2019.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with T-cell immunodeficiencies are generally treated with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, but alternatives are needed for patients without matched donors. An innovative intrathymic gene therapy approach that directly targets the thymus might improve outcomes. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the efficacy of intrathymic adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotypes to transduce thymocyte subsets and correct the T-cell immunodeficiency in a zeta-associated protein of 70 kDa (ZAP-70)-deficient murine model. METHODS AAV serotypes were injected intrathymically into wild-type mice, and gene transfer efficiency was monitored. ZAP-70-/- mice were intrathymically injected with an AAV8 vector harboring the ZAP70 gene. Thymus structure, immunophenotyping, T-cell receptor clonotypes, T-cell function, immune responses to transgenes and autoantibodies, vector copy number, and integration were evaluated. RESULTS AAV8, AAV9, and AAV10 serotypes all transduced thymocyte subsets after in situ gene transfer, with transduction of up to 5% of cells. Intrathymic injection of an AAV8-ZAP-70 vector into ZAP-70-/- mice resulted in a rapid thymocyte differentiation associated with the development of a thymic medulla. Strikingly, medullary thymic epithelial cells expressing the autoimmune regulator were detected within 10 days of gene transfer, correlating with the presence of functional effector and regulatory T-cell subsets with diverse T-cell receptor clonotypes in the periphery. Although thymocyte reconstitution was transient, gene-corrected peripheral T cells harboring approximately 1 AAV genome per cell persisted for more than 40 weeks, and AAV vector integration was detected. CONCLUSIONS Intrathymic AAV-transduced progenitors promote a rapid restoration of the thymic architecture, with a single wave of thymopoiesis generating long-term peripheral T-cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Pouzolles
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Alice Machado
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Mickaël Guilbaud
- INSERM UMR1089, Université de Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Magali Irla
- Center of Immunology Marseille-Luminy (CIML), INSERM U1104, CNRS UMR7280, Aix-Marseille Université UM2, Marseille, France
| | - Sarah Gailhac
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Pierre Barennes
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Immunology-Immunopathology-Immunotherapy (i3), Paris, France
| | - Daniela Cesana
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Calabria
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Benedicenti
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Arnauld Sergé
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Indu Raman
- Microarray Core Facility, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Tex
| | - Quan-Zhen Li
- Microarray Core Facility, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Tex; Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Tex
| | - Eugenio Montini
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - David Klatzmann
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Immunology-Immunopathology-Immunotherapy (i3), Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Biotherapy (CIC-BTi) and Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (i2B), Paris, France
| | - Oumeya Adjali
- INSERM UMR1089, Université de Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, Nantes, France.
| | - Naomi Taylor
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France; Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md.
| | - Valérie S Zimmermann
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
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16
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Cichocki F, Taras E, Chiuppesi F, Wagner JE, Blazar BR, Brunstein C, Luo X, Diamond DJ, Cooley S, Weisdorf DJ, Miller JS. Adaptive NK cell reconstitution is associated with better clinical outcomes. JCI Insight 2019; 4:e125553. [PMID: 30674718 PMCID: PMC6413795 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.125553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation is a common occurrence early after transplant and is associated with heterogeneous NK cell subset expansion. These adaptive NK cell expansions are highly variable between recipients, with respect to magnitude and relative frequencies of adaptive NK cell subsets. METHODS To gain insight into the factors that influence adaptive NK cell expansion from a CMV naive graft source, we performed a high-resolution NK cell and CD8+ T cell phenotypic analysis of 215 patients with hematological malignancies that were transplanted with 2 partially HLA matched CMV negative umbilical cord blood units. RESULTS We found that adaptive NK cells were significantly higher in recipients who received nonmyeloablative conditioning (NMAC) relative to myeloablative conditioning (MAC), and high CMV neutralizing antibody titers correlated with the degree of adaptive NK cell expansion. The frequencies of adaptive NK cell subsets (defined by NKG2C, FcεRγ, EAT-2, and SYK expression) that reconstitute from donor hematopoietic progenitor cells largely matched the frequencies observed in the NK cell compartment of the recipient prior to conditioning, suggesting that host - as well as viral reactivation factors - may determine the phenotypic diversification after transplant. Additionally, multivariable analyses show that higher adaptive NK cell expansion associated with better disease-free survival. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide important insights into adaptive NK cell reconstitution after transplant and support a role for adaptive NK cells in promoting better clinical outcomes. FUNDING The NIH and the National Marrow Donor Program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Cichocki
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Emily Taras
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Flavia Chiuppesi
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | | | | | - Claudio Brunstein
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Xianghua Luo
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, and
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Don J. Diamond
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Sarah Cooley
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Daniel J. Weisdorf
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Miller
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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17
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Stefanski HE, Jonart L, Goren E, Mulé JJ, Blazar BR. A novel approach to improve immune effector responses post transplant by restoration of CCL21 expression. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0193461. [PMID: 29617362 PMCID: PMC5884478 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy conditioning regimens required for bone marrow transplantation (BMT) cause significant morbidity and mortality as a result of insufficient immune surveillance mechanisms leading to increased risks of infection and tumor recurrence. Such conditioning causes host stromal cell injury, impairing restoration of the central (thymus) and peripheral (spleen and lymph node) T cell compartments and slow immune reconstitution. The chemokine, CCL21, produced by host stromal cells, recruits T- and B-cells that provide lymphotoxin mediated instructive signals to stromal cells for lymphoid organogenesis. Moreover, T- and B-cell recruitment into these sites is required for optimal adaptive immune responses to pathogens and tumor antigens. Previously, we reported that CCL21 was markedly reduced in secondary lymphoid organs of transplanted animals. Here, we utilized adenoviral CCL21 gene transduced dendritic cells (DC/CCL21) given by footpad injections as a novel approach to restore CCL21 expression in secondary lymphoid organs post-transplant. CCL21 expression in secondary lymphoid organs reached levels of naïve controls and resulted in increased T cell trafficking to draining lymph nodes (LNs). An increase in both lymphoid tissue inducer cells and the B cell chemokine CXCL13 known to be important in LN formation was observed. Strikingly, only mice vaccinated with DC/CCL21 loaded with bacterial, viral or tumor antigens and not recipients of DC/control adenovirus loaded cells or no DCs had a marked increase in the systemic clearance of pathogens (bacteria; virus) and leukemia cells. Because DC/CCL21 vaccines have been tested in clinical trials for patients with lung cancer and melanoma, our studies provide the foundation for future trials of DC/CCL21 vaccination in patients receiving pre-transplant conditioning regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather E Stefanski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Leslie Jonart
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Emily Goren
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - James J Mulé
- Cutaneous Oncology Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Bruce R Blazar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
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18
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Abstract
About two decades ago, cloning of the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene materialized one of the most important actors on the scene of self-tolerance. Thymic transcription of genes encoding tissue-specific antigens (ts-ags) is activated by AIRE protein and embodies the essence of thymic self-representation. Pathogenic AIRE variants cause the autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1, which is a rare and complex disease that is gaining attention in research on autoimmunity. The animal models of disease, although not identically reproducing the human picture, supply fundamental information on mechanisms and extent of AIRE action: thanks to its multidomain structure, AIRE localizes to chromatin enclosing the target genes, binds to histones, and offers an anchorage to multimolecular complexes involved in initiation and post-initiation events of gene transcription. In addition, AIRE enhances mRNA diversity by favoring alternative mRNA splicing. Once synthesized, ts-ags are presented to, and cause deletion of the self-reactive thymocyte clones. However, AIRE function is not restricted to the activation of gene transcription. AIRE would control presentation and transfer of self-antigens for thymic cellular interplay: such mechanism is aimed at increasing the likelihood of engagement of the thymocytes that carry the corresponding T-cell receptors. Another fundamental role of AIRE in promoting self-tolerance is related to the development of thymocyte anergy, as thymic self-representation shapes at the same time the repertoire of regulatory T cells. Finally, AIRE seems to replicate its action in the secondary lymphoid organs, albeit the cell lineage detaining such property has not been fully characterized. Delineation of AIRE functions adds interesting data to the knowledge of the mechanisms of self-tolerance and introduces exciting perspectives of therapeutic interventions against the related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Perniola
- Department of Pediatrics, Neonatal Intensive Care, Vito Fazzi Regional Hospital, Lecce, Italy
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19
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Racioppi L, Lento W, Huang W, Arvai S, Doan PL, Harris JR, Marcon F, Nakaya HI, Liu Y, Chao N. Calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase kinase 2 regulates hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell regeneration. Cell Death Dis 2017; 8:e3076. [PMID: 28981105 PMCID: PMC5680595 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2017.474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are predominantly quiescent in adults, but proliferate in response to bone marrow (BM) injury. Here, we show that deletion of Ca2+/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CaMKK2) promotes HSPC regeneration and hematopoietic recovery following radiation injury. Using Camkk2-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) reporter mice, we found that Camkk2 expression is developmentally regulated in HSPC. Deletion of Camkk2 in HSPC results in a significant downregulation of genes affiliated with the quiescent signature. Accordingly, HSPC from Camkk2 null mice have a high proliferative capability when stimulated in vitro in the presence of BM-derived endothelial cells. In addition, Camkk2 null mice are more resistant to radiation injury and show accelerated hematopoietic recovery, enhanced HSPC regeneration and ultimately a prolonged survival following sublethal or lethal total body irradiation. Mechanistically, we propose that CaMKK2 regulates the HSPC response to hematopoietic damage by coupling radiation signaling to activation of the anti-proliferative AMP-activated protein kinase. Finally, we demonstrated that systemic administration of the small molecule CaMKK2 inhibitor, STO-609, to irradiated mice enhanced HSPC recovery and improved survival. These findings identify CaMKK2 as an important regulator of HSPC regeneration and demonstrate CaMKK2 inhibition is a novel approach to promoting hematopoietic recovery after BM injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Racioppi
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - William Lento
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Wei Huang
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Stephanie Arvai
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Phuong L Doan
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey R Harris
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Fernando Marcon
- Department of Pathophysiology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helder I Nakaya
- Department of Pathophysiology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Yaping Liu
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nelson Chao
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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20
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A critical epithelial survival axis regulated by MCL-1 maintains thymic function in mice. Blood 2017; 130:2504-2515. [PMID: 28972012 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2017-03-771576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell differentiation is governed by interactions with thymic epithelial cells (TECs) and defects in this process undermine immune function and tolerance. To uncover new strategies to restore thymic function and adaptive immunity in immunodeficiency, we sought to determine the molecular mechanisms that control life and death decisions in TECs. Guided by gene expression profiling, we created mouse models that specifically deleted prosurvival genes in TECs. We found that although BCL-2 and BCL-XL were dispensable for TEC homeostasis, MCL-1 deficiency impacted on TECs as early as embryonic day 15.5, resulting in early thymic atrophy and T-cell lymphopenia, with near complete loss of thymic tissue by 2 months of age. MCL-1 was not necessary for TEC differentiation but was continually required for the survival of mature cortical and medullary TECs and the maintenance of thymic architecture. A screen of TEC trophic factors in organ cultures showed that epidermal growth factor upregulated MCL-1 via MAPK/ERK kinase activity, providing a molecular mechanism for the support of TEC survival. This signaling axis governing TEC survival and thymic function represents a new target for strategies for thymic protection and regeneration.
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21
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Thymic epithelial cells require p53 to support their long-term function in thymopoiesis in mice. Blood 2017; 130:478-488. [PMID: 28559356 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2016-12-758961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) provide crucial microenvironments for T-cell development and tolerance induction. As the regular function of the thymus declines with age, it is of fundamental and clinical relevance to decipher new determinants that control TEC homeostasis in vivo. Beyond its recognized tumor suppressive function, p53 controls several immunoregulatory pathways. To study the cell-autonomous role of p53 in thymic epithelium functioning, we developed and analyzed mice with conditional inactivation of Trp53 in TECs (p53cKO). We report that loss of p53 primarily disrupts the integrity of medullary TEC (mTEC) niche, a defect that spreads to the adult cortical TEC compartment. Mechanistically, we found that p53 controls specific and broad programs of mTEC differentiation. Apart from restraining the expression and responsiveness of the receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK), which is central for mTEC differentiation, deficiency of p53 in TECs altered multiple functional modules of the mTEC transcriptome, including tissue-restricted antigen expression. As a result, p53cKO mice presented premature defects in mTEC-dependent regulatory T-cell differentiation and thymocyte maturation, which progressed to a failure in regular and regenerative thymopoiesis and peripheral T-cell homeostasis in the adulthood. Lastly, peripheral signs of altered immunological tolerance unfold in mutant mice and in immunodeficient mice that received p53cKO-derived thymocytes. Our findings position p53 as a novel molecular determinant of thymic epithelium function throughout life.
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22
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Smith MJ, Reichenbach DK, Parker SL, Riddle MJ, Mitchell J, Osum KC, Mohtashami M, Stefanski HE, Fife BT, Bhandoola A, Hogquist KA, Holländer GA, Zúñiga-Pflücker JC, Tolar J, Blazar BR. T cell progenitor therapy-facilitated thymopoiesis depends upon thymic input and continued thymic microenvironment interaction. JCI Insight 2017; 2:92056. [PMID: 28515359 PMCID: PMC5436538 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.92056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infusion of in vitro-derived T cell progenitor (proT) therapy with hematopoietic stem cell transplant aids the recovery of the thymus damaged by total body irradiation. To understand the interaction between proTs and the thymic microenvironment, WT mice were lethally irradiated and given T cell-deficient (Rag1-/-) marrow with WT in vitro-generated proTs, limiting mature T cell development to infused proTs. ProTs within the host thymus led to a significant increase in thymic epithelial cells (TECs) by day 21 after transplant, increasing actively cycling TECs. Upon thymus egress (day 28), proT TEC effects were lost, suggesting that continued signaling from proTs is required to sustain TEC cycling and cellularity. Thymocytes increased significantly by day 21, followed by a significant improvement in mature T cell numbers in the periphery by day 35. This protective surge was temporary, receding by day 60. Double-negative 2 (DN2) proTs selectively increased thymocyte number, while DN3 proTs preferentially increased TECs and T cells in the spleen that persisted at day 60. These findings highlight the importance of the interaction between proTs and TECs in the proliferation and survival of TECs and that the maturation stage of proTs has unique effects on thymopoiesis and peripheral T cell recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle J. Smith
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Center for Immunology, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Dawn K. Reichenbach
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Center for Immunology, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Sarah L. Parker
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Megan J. Riddle
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jason Mitchell
- Center for Immunology, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kevin C. Osum
- Center for Immunology, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mahmood Mohtashami
- Sunnybrook Research Institute and Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather E. Stefanski
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Brian T. Fife
- Center for Immunology, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Avinash Bhandoola
- T-Cell Biology and Development Unit, Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Georg A. Holländer
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Paediatrics and Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jakub Tolar
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Bruce R. Blazar
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Center for Immunology, Department of Medicine, and
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23
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Goldberg JD, Zheng J, Ratan R, Small TN, Lai KC, Boulad F, Castro-Malaspina H, Giralt SA, Jakubowski AA, Kernan NA, O'Reilly RJ, Papadopoulos EB, Young JW, van den Brink MRM, Heller G, Perales MA. Early recovery of T-cell function predicts improved survival after T-cell depleted allogeneic transplant. Leuk Lymphoma 2017; 58:1859-1871. [PMID: 28073320 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2016.1265113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Infection, relapse, and GVHD can complicate allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Although the effect of poor immune recovery on infection risk is well-established, there are limited data on the effect of immune reconstitution on relapse and survival, especially following T-cell depletion (TCD). To characterize the pattern of immune reconstitution in the first year after transplant and its effects on survival and relapse, we performed a retrospective study in 375 recipients of a myeloablative TCD allo-HSCT for hematologic malignancies. We noted that different subsets recover sequentially, CD8 + T cells first, followed by total CD4 + and naïve CD4 + T cells, indicating thymic recovery during the first year after HSCT. In the multivariate model, a fully HLA-matched donor and recovery of T-cell function, assessed by PHA response at 6 months, were the only factors independently associated with OS and EFS. In conclusion, T-cell recovery is an important predictor of outcome after TCD allo-HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna D Goldberg
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - Junting Zheng
- c Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Ravin Ratan
- b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - Trudy N Small
- b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA.,d Department of Pediatrics, Bone Marrow Transplantation Service , Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Kuan-Chi Lai
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Farid Boulad
- b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA.,d Department of Pediatrics, Bone Marrow Transplantation Service , Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Hugo Castro-Malaspina
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - Sergio A Giralt
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - Ann A Jakubowski
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - Nancy A Kernan
- b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA.,d Department of Pediatrics, Bone Marrow Transplantation Service , Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Richard J O'Reilly
- b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA.,d Department of Pediatrics, Bone Marrow Transplantation Service , Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Esperanza B Papadopoulos
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - James W Young
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - Marcel R M van den Brink
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - Glenn Heller
- b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA.,c Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Miguel-Angel Perales
- a Department of Medicine , Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
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Immunomodulatory Function of the Tumor Suppressor p53 in Host Immune Response and the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17111942. [PMID: 27869779 PMCID: PMC5133937 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17111942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor suppressor p53 is the most frequently mutated gene in human cancers. Most of the mutations are missense leading to loss of p53 function in inducing apoptosis and senescence. In addition to these autonomous effects of p53 inactivation/dysfunction on tumorigenesis, compelling evidence suggests that p53 mutation/inactivation also leads to gain-of-function or activation of non-autonomous pathways, which either directly or indirectly promote tumorigenesis. Experimental and clinical results suggest that p53 dysfunction fuels pro-tumor inflammation and serves as an immunological gain-of-function driver of tumorigenesis via skewing immune landscape of the tumor microenvironment (TME). It is now increasingly appreciated that p53 dysfunction in various cellular compartments of the TME leads to immunosuppression and immune evasion. Although our understanding of the cellular and molecular processes that link p53 activity to host immune regulation is still incomplete, it is clear that activating/reactivating the p53 pathway in the TME also represents a compelling immunological strategy to reverse immunosuppression and enhance antitumor immunity. Here, we review our current understanding of the potential cellular and molecular mechanisms by which p53 participates in immune regulation and discuss how targeting the p53 pathway can be exploited to alter the immunological landscape of tumors for maximizing therapeutic outcome.
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A GMCSF and IL7 fusion cytokine leads to functional thymic-dependent T-cell regeneration in age-associated immune deficiency. Clin Transl Immunology 2015; 4:e37. [PMID: 26131365 PMCID: PMC4478872 DOI: 10.1038/cti.2015.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2014] [Revised: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The competence of cellular immunity depends on a diverse T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire arising from thymic output. Normal thymopoiesis arises from marrow-derived CD3(-)CD4(-)CD8(-) triple-negative T-cell progenitors (TN), which develop into mature single-positive (SP) CD4 or CD8 T cells after expressing both CD4 and CD8 (double-positive, DP) transiently, leading to de novo T-cell production. Interleukin-7 (IL7) is a singularly important common γ-chain IL involved in normal thymic development. Our previous work has demonstrated that γc cytokines fused with granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GMCSF) at the N-terminus acquire unheralded biological properties. Therefore, to enhance thymopoiesis, we developed a novel biopharmaceutical based on the fusion of GMCSF and IL7, hereafter GIFT7. Systemic administration of GIFT7 leads to cortical thymic hyperplasia including the specific expansion of CD44(int)CD25(-) double-negative 1 (DN1) thymic progenitors. During murine cytomegalovirus (mCMV) infection of aged animals, GIFT7-mediated neo-thymopoiesis led to increased absolute numbers of viral-specific CD8(+) T cell. Our work demonstrated that thymic precursors can be therapeutically repopulated and its reconstitution leads to meaningful central and peripheral T-cell neogenesis, correcting immune dysfunction arising from age-associated thymic atrophy.
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De Barros SC, Zimmermann VS, Taylor N. Concise review: hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: targeting the thymus. Stem Cells 2014; 31:1245-51. [PMID: 23554173 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation can cure patients suffering from diverse genetic and acquired diseases as well as cancers. Nevertheless, under conditions where T-cell reconstitution is critical, the entry of donor progenitors into the thymus remains a major bottleneck. It is assumed that following the intravenous injection of HSC, they first home to the BM. More committed progenitors can then be exported to the thymus in response to a myriad of signals regulating thymus seeding. Notably although, the thymus is not continually receptive to the import of hematopoietic progenitors. Furthermore, as stem cells with self-renewing capacity do not take up residence in the thymus under physiological conditions, the periodic colonization of the thymus is essential for the sustained differentiation of T lymphocytes. As such, we and others have invested significant efforts into exploring avenues that might foster a long-term thymus-autonomous differentiation. Here, we review strategic approaches that have resulted in long-term T-cell differentiation in immunodeficient (SCID) mice, even across histocompatibility barriers. These include the forced thymic entry of BM precursors by their direct intrathymic injection as well as the transplantation of neonatal thymi. The capacity of the thymus to support hematopoietic progenitors with renewal potential will hopefully promote the development of new therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing T-cell differentiation in patients undergoing HSC transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie C De Barros
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Université Montpellier , Montpellier, France
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27
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Finch PW, Mark Cross LJ, McAuley DF, Farrell CL. Palifermin for the protection and regeneration of epithelial tissues following injury: new findings in basic research and pre-clinical models. J Cell Mol Med 2014; 17:1065-87. [PMID: 24151975 PMCID: PMC4118166 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Revised: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) is a paracrine-acting epithelial mitogen produced by cells of mesenchymal origin, that plays an important role in protecting and repairing epithelial tissues. Pre-clinical data initially demonstrated that a recombinant truncated KGF (palifermin) could reduce gastrointestinal injury and mortality resulting from a variety of toxic exposures. Furthermore, the use of palifermin in patients with hematological malignancies reduced the incidence and duration of severe oral mucositis experienced after intensive chemoradiotherapy. Based upon these findings, as well as the observation that KGF receptors are expressed in many, if not all, epithelial tissues, pre-clinical studies have been conducted to determine the efficacy of palifermin in protecting different epithelial tissues from toxic injury in an attempt to model various clinical situations in which it might prove to be of benefit in limiting tissue damage. In this article, we review these studies to provide the pre-clinical background for clinical trials that are described in the accompanying article and the rationale for additional clinical applications of palifermin.
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Danby R, Rocha V. Improving engraftment and immune reconstitution in umbilical cord blood transplantation. Front Immunol 2014; 5:68. [PMID: 24605111 PMCID: PMC3932655 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is an important source of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) for allogeneic transplantation when HLA-matched sibling and unrelated donors (MUD) are unavailable. Although the overall survival results for UCB transplantation are comparable to the results with MUD, UCB transplants are associated with slow engraftment, delayed immune reconstitution, and increased opportunistic infections. While this may be a consequence of the lower cell dose in UCB grafts, it also reflects the relative immaturity of cord blood. Furthermore, limited cell numbers and the non-availability of donor lymphocyte infusions currently prevent the use of post-transplant cellular immunotherapy to boost donor-derived immunity to treat infections, mixed chimerism, and disease relapse. To further develop UCB transplantation, many strategies to enhance engraftment and immune reconstitution are currently under investigation. This review summarizes our current understanding of engraftment and immune recovery following UCB transplantation and why this differs from allogeneic transplants using other sources of HSC. It also provides a comprehensive overview of promising techniques being used to improve myeloid and lymphoid recovery, including expansion, homing, and delivery of UCB HSC; combined use of UCB with third-party donors; isolation and expansion of natural killer cells, pathogen-specific T cells, and regulatory T cells; methods to protect and/or improve thymopoiesis. As many of these strategies are now in clinical trials, it is anticipated that UCB transplantation will continue to advance, further expanding our understanding of UCB biology and HSC transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Danby
- Department of Haematology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust , Oxford , UK ; NHS Blood and Transplant, John Radcliffe Hospital , Oxford , UK ; Eurocord, Hôpital Saint Louis APHP, University Paris VII IUH , Paris , France
| | - Vanderson Rocha
- Department of Haematology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust , Oxford , UK ; NHS Blood and Transplant, John Radcliffe Hospital , Oxford , UK ; Eurocord, Hôpital Saint Louis APHP, University Paris VII IUH , Paris , France
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Song Y, Yu R, Wang C, Chi F, Guo Z, Zhu X. Disruption of the Thymic Microenvironment Is Associated with Thymic Involution of Transitional Cell Cancer. Urol Int 2014; 92:104-15. [DOI: 10.1159/000353350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Vadhan-Raj S, Goldberg JD, Perales MA, Berger DP, Brink MRM. Clinical applications of palifermin: amelioration of oral mucositis and other potential indications. J Cell Mol Med 2013; 17:1371-84. [PMID: 24251854 PMCID: PMC4117550 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucositis is one of the most significant toxicities in cancer patients undergoing cytotoxic treatment. It can have a negative impact on both quality of life and health economics. Severe oral mucositis can contribute to hospitalization, need for narcotic analgesics, total parentral nutrition, suboptimal delivery of anti-neoplastic treatment, and morbidity and mortality. Palifermin, a recombinant derivative of human keratinocyte growth factor, is the first active agent approved by the FDA for the prevention of severe oral mucositis in patients undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Several studies have also shown significant reduction in the incidence, severity and/or duration of oral mucositis in other high-risk settings such as concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CT/RT) for patients with head and neck cancer, and use of mucotoxic chemotherapeutic agents such as doxorubicin in sarcoma and fluorouracil for the treatment of colorectal cancer. The reduction in mucositis has translated into amelioration of symptoms and improvement in daily functioning as measured by patient-reported outcome in multiple studies. The clinical response to palifermin appears to be related in part to epithelial proliferation and mucosal thickening. Palifermin also has other potential clinical applications including the acceleration of immune reconstitution and inhibition of graft-versus-host disease in patients undergoing HSCT, and mitigation of dysphagia in lung cancer patients treated with concurrent CT/RT. Palifermin is generally well tolerated with mild-to-moderate skin and oral adverse events. Future studies may expand the use of palifermin into other areas that would benefit from its cytoprotective and regenerative effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saroj Vadhan-Raj
- Department of Sarcoma Medical Oncology, Section of Cytokines and Supportive Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterHouston, TX, USA
| | - Jenna D Goldberg
- Department of Medicine, Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer CenterNew York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical CollegeNew York, NY, USA
| | - Miguel-Angel Perales
- Department of Medicine, Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer CenterNew York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical CollegeNew York, NY, USA
| | - Dietmar P Berger
- Amgen Inc.Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
- Department of Oncology, Genentech Inc.South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Marcel RM Brink
- Department of Medicine, Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer CenterNew York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical CollegeNew York, NY, USA
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Velardi E, Dudakov JA, van den Brink MR. Clinical strategies to enhance thymic recovery after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Immunol Lett 2013; 155:31-5. [PMID: 24120996 PMCID: PMC3871183 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2013.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is particularly sensitive to injury caused by cytoreductive chemo- or radiation therapy, shock, infection and graft versus host disease. Insufficient thymic recovery has been directly correlated with increased risk of opportunistic infections and poor clinical outcomes in recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Prolonged immune deficiency is particularly pronounced in older patients whose thymi are already significantly impaired due to age-related thymic involution. Preclinical and clinical studies have revealed several strategies that can enhance thymic function and immune reconstitution after transplant, including sex steroid ablation, growth factors (growth hormone, keratinocyte growth factor, insulin-like growth factor 1, interleukin-7) and ex vivo generated precursor T cells. In addition, recent studies have shown that other approaches, such as interleukein-22 and nutritional changes, may represent additional candidates to enhance thymic regeneration. In this review we provide updates on these strategies and comment on their potential to be translated into clinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Velardi
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06122 Perugia, Italy
| | - Jarrod A. Dudakov
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
- Monash Immunology and Stem Cell Laboratories (MISCL), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia 3800
| | - Marcel R.M. van den Brink
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
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Toubert A, Glauzy S, Douay C, Clave E. Thymus and immune reconstitution after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in humans: never say never again. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 79:83-9. [PMID: 22220718 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0039.2011.01820.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Assessment of the host immune status is becoming a key issue in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). In the long-term follow-up of these patients, severe post-transplant infections, relapse or secondary malignancies may be directly related to persistent immune defects. In allo-HSCT, T-cell differentiation of donor progenitors within the recipient thymus is required to generate naive recent T-cell emigrants (RTE). These cells account for a durable T-cell reconstitution, generating a diverse T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire and robust response to infections. It is now possible to quantify the production of RTE by measuring thymic T-cell receptor excision circles or 'TREC' which are small circular DNA produced during the recombination of the genomic segments encoding the TCR alpha chain. Here we discuss the role of thymic function in allo-HSCT. The pre-transplant recipient thymic function correlates with clinical outcome in terms of survival and occurrence of severe infections. Post-transplant, TREC analysis showed that the thymus is a sensitive target to the allogeneic acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) reaction but is also prone to recovery in young adult patients. In all, thymus is a key player for the quality of immune reconstitution and clinical outcome after allo-HSCT. Thymic tissue is plastic and it is a future challenge to halt or reverse thymic GVHD therapeutically by acting at the level of T-cell progenitors generation, thymic homing and/or epithelial thymic tissue preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Toubert
- Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM UMR940, Institut Universitaire d'Hématologie, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France.
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Griffith AV, Fallahi M, Venables T, Petrie HT. Persistent degenerative changes in thymic organ function revealed by an inducible model of organ regrowth. Aging Cell 2012; 11:169-77. [PMID: 22103718 DOI: 10.1111/j.1474-9726.2011.00773.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus is the most rapidly aging tissue in the body, with progressive atrophy beginning as early as birth and not later than adolescence. Latent regenerative potential exists in the atrophic thymus, because certain stimuli can induce quantitative regrowth, but qualitative function of T lymphocytes produced by the regenerated organ has not been fully assessed. Using a genome-wide computational approach, we show that accelerated thymic aging is primarily a function of stromal cells, and that while overall cellularity of the thymus can be restored, many other aspects of thymic function cannot. Medullary islet complexity and tissue-restricted antigen expression decrease with age, representing potential mechanisms for age-related increases in autoimmune disease, but neither of these is restored by induced regrowth, suggesting that new T cells produced by the regrown thymus will probably include more autoreactive cells. Global analysis of stromal gene expression profiles implicates widespread changes in Wnt signaling as the most significant hallmark of degeneration, changes that once again persist even at peak regrowth. Consistent with the permanent nature of age-related molecular changes in stromal cells, induced thymic regrowth is not durable, with the regrown organ returning to an atrophic state within 2 weeks of reaching peak size. Our findings indicate that while quantitative regrowth of the thymus is achievable, the changes associated with aging persist, including potential negative implications for autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann V Griffith
- Department of Cancer Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
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Keratinocyte Growth Factor and Stem Cell Factor to Improve Thymopoiesis after Autologous CD34+ Cell Transplantation in Rhesus Macaques. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2012; 18:55-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2011.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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35
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Rizwan R, Levine JE, Defor T, Ferarra JLM, Weisdorf DJ, Blazar BR, Verneris MR. Peritransplant palifermin use and lymphocyte recovery after T-cell replete, matched related allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Am J Hematol 2011; 86:879-82. [PMID: 21922528 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.22136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Romee Rizwan
- The Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
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36
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A Human Recombinant IL-7/HGFα Hybrid Cytokine Enhances T-Cell Reconstitution in Mice After Syngeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation. Transplantation 2011; 92:516-22. [DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e318228d766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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37
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Dudakov JA, van den Brink MRM. Greater than the sum of their parts: combination strategies for immune regeneration following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2011; 24:467-76. [PMID: 21925100 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2011.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cytoreductive conditioning regimes designed to allow for successful allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) paradoxically are also detrimental to recovery of the immune system in general but lymphopoiesis in particular. Post-transplant immune depletion is particularly striking within the T cell compartment which is exquisitely sensitive to negative regulation, evidenced by the profound decline in thymic function with age. As a consequence, regeneration of the immune system remains a significant unmet clinical need. Over the past decade studies have revealed several promising therapeutic strategies to address ineffective lymphopoiesis and post-transplant immune deficiency. These include the use of cytokines such as IL-7, IL-12 and IL-15; growth factors and hormones like keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and growth hormone (GH); adoptive transfer of ex vivo-generated precursor T cells (pre-T) and sex steroid ablation (SSA). Moreover, recently several novel approaches have been proposed to generate whole thymii ex vivo using stem cell technologies and bioscaffolds. Increasingly, however, when transferred to the clinic, these strategies alone are not sufficient to restore thymopoiesis in all patients leading to the potential of combination strategies as a way to reign in non-responders. Synergistic enhancement in combination may be due to differential targets may therefore be effective in improving clinical outcomes in the transplant settings as well as in other lymphopenic states induced by high dose chemotherapy/radiation therapy or HIV, and may also be useful in improving responses to vaccination and augmenting anti-tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarrod A Dudakov
- Department of Immunology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
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38
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Wang Y, Chen G, Qiao S, Ma X, Tang X, Sun A, Wu D. Keratinocyte growth factor enhanced immune reconstitution in murine allogeneic umbilical cord blood cell transplant. Leuk Lymphoma 2011; 52:1556-66. [PMID: 21649545 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2011.573037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is used increasingly as a source of hematopoietic cells because of a lower risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Myeloablative conditioning before allogeneic umbilical cord blood transplant (allo-UCBT) results in thymic epithelial cell injury and T-cell immune deficiency. Full-term fetal blood cells were used as hematopoietic cells in a previous murine allo-UCBT model with a limited number of mice surviving the myeloablative conditioning. We designed a viable murine allo-UCBT protocol with platelet concentrate support. Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) is a mitogen of thymic epithelial cells that promotes recovery of thymic epithelium when given before total body irradiation (TBI)-containing conditioning in experimental murine models. We hypothesized that KGF pre-administration would improve post-allo-UCBT thymopoiesis. To test this hypothesis, allo-UCBT recipient mice were given KGF or control saline prior to UCBT. Platelet concentrate support significantly improved the survival rate of murine allo-UCBT recipients. KGF administration significantly increased donor-derived T and natural killer T (NKT) cells at day +35 in spleens of allo-UCBT recipients. KGF administration also improved thymic function after allo-UCBT, resulting in higher copies of signal joint T-cell receptor rearrangement excision circles (sjTRECs) in splenocytes. Finally, we found that KGF pre-administration could enhance the graft-versus-leukemia effect. In conclusion, KGF can be administered safely to recipients of allo-UCBT to enhance T-cell immune reconstitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Tang Q, Ahn YO, Southern P, Blazar BR, Miller JS, Verneris MR. Development of IL-22-producing NK lineage cells from umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells in the absence of secondary lymphoid tissue. Blood 2011; 117:4052-5. [PMID: 21310921 PMCID: PMC3087531 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2010-09-303081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2010] [Accepted: 01/25/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human secondary lymphoid tissues (SLTs) contain interleukin-22 (IL-22)-producing cells with an immature NK phenotype. Given their location, these cells are difficult to study. We have generated large numbers of NK22 cells from hematopoietic stem cells. HSC-derived NK22 cells show a CD56(+)CD117(high)CD94(-) phenotype, consistent with stage III NK progenitors. Like freshly isolated SLT stage III cells, HSC-derived NK22 cells express NKp44, CD161, CCR6, IL1 receptor, AHR, and ROR-γτ. IL-1β and IL-23 stimulation results in significant IL-22 but not interferon-γ production. Supernatant from these cells increases CD54 expression on mesenchymal stem cells. Thus, IL-22-producing NK cells can be generated in the absence of SLT. HSC-derived NK22 cells will be valuable in understanding this rare NK subset and create the opportunity for human translational clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Tang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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40
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Abstract
Cytoreductive conditioning regimens used in the context of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) elicit deficits in innate and adaptive immunity, which predispose patients to infections. As such, transplantation outcomes depend vitally on the successful reconstruction of immune competence. Restoration of a normal peripheral T-cell pool after HCT is a slow process that requires the de novo production of naive T cells in a functionally competent thymus. However, there are several challenges to this regenerative process. Most notably, advanced age, the cytotoxic pretransplantation conditioning, and posttransplantation alloreactivity are risk factors for T-cell immune deficiency as they independently interfere with normal thymus function. Here, we discuss preclinical allogeneic HCT models and clinical observations that have contributed to a better understanding of the transplant-related thymic dysfunction. The identification of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control regular thymopoiesis but are altered in HCT patients is expected to provide the basis for new therapies that improve the regeneration of the adaptive immune system, especially with functionally competent, naive T cells.
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Jin J, Goldschneider I, Lai L. In Vivo Administration of the Recombinant IL-7/Hepatocyte Growth Factor β Hybrid Cytokine Efficiently Restores Thymopoiesis and Naive T Cell Generation in Lethally Irradiated Mice after Syngeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2011; 186:1915-22. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1001238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Early lymphocyte recovery and outcomes after umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT) for hematologic malignancies. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2010; 17:831-40. [PMID: 20831896 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2010.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2010] [Accepted: 08/31/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Rapid lymphocyte recovery after bone marrow or peripheral blood transplantation is associated with improved survival. However, the impact of early lymphocyte recovery has not been examined after umbilical cord blood transplant (UCBT). We evaluated lymphocyte recovery in 360 consecutive patients with hematologic malignancy that underwent UCBT between 2001 and 2007. Uniform myeloablative (MA), reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) and graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis regimens were used. In multivariate analysis, an absolute leukocyte count (ALC) >200 × 10(6)/L at day 30 (n = 73) after MA conditioning was associated with superior 2-year overall survival (OS) (73% versus 61%; P = .02) (relative risk [RR]: 2.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15-4.56), progression-free survival (PFS) (68% versus 54%; P = .05) (RR: 1.96; 95% CI: 0.99-3.86) and less transplant-related mortality (8% versus 28%, P < .01) (RR: 4.38; 95% CI: 1.65-11.60) compared to ≤200 × 10(6)/L (n = 43). Similarly, an ALC >200 × 10(6)/L at day 42 (n = 105) after RIC was associated with superior 2-year OS (59% versus 41%, P < .01) (RR: 2.10; 95% CI: 1.3-3.41) and PFS (46% versus 36%, P = .05) (RR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.01-2.49) compared to ≤200 × 10(6)/L (n = 55). There was no significant relationship between ALC and relapse. Rapid lymphocyte recovery early after UCBT predicts better survival in patients with hematologic malignancies.
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Holländer GA, Krenger W, Blazar BR. Emerging strategies to boost thymic function. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2010; 10:443-53. [PMID: 20447867 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2010.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 04/06/2010] [Accepted: 04/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The thymus constitutes the primary lymphoid organ for the generation of T cells. Its function is particularly susceptible to various negative influences ranging from age-related involution to atrophy as a consequence of malnutrition, infection or harmful iatrogenic influences such as chemotherapy and radiation. The loss of regular thymus function significantly increases the risk for infections and cancer because of a restricted capacity for immune surveillance. In recent years, thymus-stimulatory, thymus-regenerative, and thymus-protective strategies have been developed to enhance and repair thymus function in the elderly and in individuals undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. These strategies include the use of sex steroid ablation, the administration of growth and differentiation factors, the inhibition of p53, and the transfer of T cell progenitors to alleviate the effects of thymus dysfunction and consequent T cell deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg A Holländer
- Laboratory of Pediatric Immunology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, The University Children's Hospital (UKBB), Mattenstrasse 28, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.
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