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Luo Y, Lu J, Lei Z, Zhu H, Rao D, Wang T, Fu C, Zhang Z, Xia L, Huang W. Lysine methylation modifications in tumor immunomodulation and immunotherapy: regulatory mechanisms and perspectives. Biomark Res 2024; 12:74. [PMID: 39080807 PMCID: PMC11289998 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00621-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Lysine methylation is a crucial post-translational modification (PTM) that significantly impacts gene expression regulation. This modification not only influences cancer development directly but also has significant implications for the immune system. Lysine methylation modulates immune cell functions and shapes the anti-tumor immune response, highlighting its dual role in both tumor progression and immune regulation. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the intrinsic role of lysine methylation in the activation and function of immune cells, detailing how these modifications affect cellular processes and signaling pathways. We delve into the mechanisms by which lysine methylation contributes to tumor immune evasion, allowing cancer cells to escape immune surveillance and thrive. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting lysine methylation in cancer immunotherapy. Emerging strategies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, are being explored for their efficacy in modulating lysine methylation to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. By targeting these modifications, we can potentially improve the effectiveness of existing treatments and develop novel therapeutic approaches to combat cancer more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Luo
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Junli Lu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Zhen Lei
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - He Zhu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Dean Rao
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Tiantian Wang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Chenan Fu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Limin Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
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Zheng X, Dozmorov MG, Espinoza L, Bowes MM, Bastacky S, Sawalha AH. Inducible deletion of Ezh2 in CD4+ T cells inhibits kidney T cell infiltration and prevents interstitial nephritis in MRL/lpr lupus-prone mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.04.583401. [PMID: 38496595 PMCID: PMC10942296 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.04.583401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a remitting relapsing autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibody production and multi-organ involvement. T cell epigenetic dysregulation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of lupus. We have previously demonstrated upregulation of the key epigenetic regulator EZH2 in CD4+ T cells isolated from lupus patients. To further investigate the role of EZH2 in the pathogenesis of lupus, we generated a tamoxifen-inducible CD4+ T cell Ezh2 conditional knockout mouse on the MRL/lpr lupus-prone background. We demonstrate that Ezh2 deletion abrogates lupus-like disease and prevents T cell differentiation. Single-cell analysis suggests impaired T cell function and activation of programed cell death pathways in EZH2-deficient mice. Ezh2 deletion in CD4+ T cells restricts TCR clonal repertoire and prevents kidney-infiltrating effector CD4+ T cell expansion and tubulointerstitial nephritis, which has been linked to end-stage renal disease in patients with lupus nephritis.
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3
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Chen Y, Liu W, Xu X, Zhen H, Pang B, Zhao Z, Zhao Y, Liu H. The Role of H3K27me3-Mediated Th17 Differentiation in Ankylosing Spondylitis. Inflammation 2024:10.1007/s10753-024-02002-9. [PMID: 38517649 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-024-02002-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a common chronic progressive inflammatory autoimmune disease. T helper 17 (Th17) cells are the major effector cells mediating AS inflammation. Histone 3 Lys 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) is an inhibitory histone modification that silences gene transcription and plays an important role in Th17 differentiation. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of H3K27me3 in patients with AS and to explore its epigenetic regulation mechanism of Th17 differentiation during AS inflammation. We collected serum samples from 45 patients with AS at various stages and 10 healthy controls to measure their Interleukin-17 (IL-17) levels using ELISA. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify the mRNA levels of RORc and the signaling molecules of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway, JMJD3, and EZH2. Additionally, Western blot analysis was performed to quantify the protein levels of H3K27me3, RORγt, JAK2, STAT3, JMJD3, and EZH2 in cell protein extracts. The results showed that H3K27me3 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was significantly lower in patients with active AS compared to both the normal control groups and those with stable AS. Moreover, a significant negative correlation was observed between H3K27me3 expression and the characteristic transcription factor of Th17 differentiation, RORγt. We also discovered that patients with active AS exhibited significantly higher levels of JMJD3, an inhibitor of H3K27 demethylase, compared to the normal control group and patients with stable AS, while the expression of H3K27 methyltransferase (EZH2) was significantly lower. These findings suggest that H3K27me3 may be a dynamic and important epigenetic modification in AS inflammation, and JMJD3/EZH2 regulates the methylation level of H3K27me3, which may be one of the key regulatory factors in the pathogenesis of AS. These findings contribute to our understanding of the role of epigenetics in AS and may have implications for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuening Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Wanlin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Xiaohan Xu
- Guang'anmen Hospital Jinan, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Hongying Zhen
- Department of Cell Biology, Basic Medical School, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Bo Pang
- Clinical Laboratory, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Zhe Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Yanan Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Hongxiao Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, 100053, China.
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Song C, Kim MY, Cho JY. The Role of Protein Methyltransferases in Immunity. Molecules 2024; 29:360. [PMID: 38257273 PMCID: PMC10819338 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The immune system protects our body from bacteria, viruses, and toxins and removes malignant cells. Activation of immune cells requires the onset of a network of important signaling proteins. Methylation of these proteins affects their structure and biological function. Under stimulation, T cells, B cells, and other immune cells undergo activation, development, proliferation, differentiation, and manufacture of cytokines and antibodies. Methyltransferases alter the above processes and lead to diverse outcomes depending on the degree and type of methylation. In the previous two decades, methyltransferases have been reported to mediate a great variety of immune stages. Elucidating the roles of methylation in immunity not only contributes to understanding the immune mechanism but is helpful in the development of new immunotherapeutic strategies. Hence, we review herein the studies on methylation in immunity, aiming to provide ideas for new approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoran Song
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea;
| | - Mi-Yeon Kim
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Youl Cho
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea;
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Patton T, Zhao Z, Lim XY, Eddy E, Wang H, Nelson AG, Ennis B, Eckle SBG, Souter MNT, Pediongco TJ, Koay HF, Zhang JG, Djajawi TM, Louis C, Lalaoui N, Jacquelot N, Lew AM, Pellicci DG, McCluskey J, Zhan Y, Chen Z, Lawlor KE, Corbett AJ. RIPK3 controls MAIT cell accumulation during development but not during infection. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:111. [PMID: 36774342 PMCID: PMC9922319 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05619-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Cell death mechanisms in T lymphocytes vary according to their developmental stage, cell subset and activation status. The cell death control mechanisms of mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, a specialized T cell population, are largely unknown. Here we report that MAIT cells express key necroptotic machinery; receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) and mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) protein, in abundance. Despite this, we discovered that the loss of RIPK3, but not necroptotic effector MLKL or apoptotic caspase-8, specifically increased MAIT cell abundance at steady-state in the thymus, spleen, liver and lungs, in a cell-intrinsic manner. In contrast, over the course of infection with Francisella tularensis, RIPK3 deficiency did not impact the magnitude of the expansion nor contraction of MAIT cell pools. These findings suggest that, distinct from conventional T cells, the accumulation of MAIT cells is restrained by RIPK3 signalling, likely prior to thymic egress, in a manner independent of canonical apoptotic and necroptotic cell death pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Patton
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zhe Zhao
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xin Yi Lim
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eleanor Eddy
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Huimeng Wang
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Adam G Nelson
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bronte Ennis
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sidonia B G Eckle
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael N T Souter
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Troi J Pediongco
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hui-Fern Koay
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jian-Guo Zhang
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tirta M Djajawi
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cynthia Louis
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Najoua Lalaoui
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicolas Jacquelot
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew M Lew
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel G Pellicci
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital Parkville, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James McCluskey
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yifan Zhan
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Drug Discovery, Shanghai Huaota Biopharm, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenjun Chen
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate E Lawlor
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexandra J Corbett
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Wang Y, Bui T, Zhang Y. The pleiotropic roles of EZH2 in T-cell immunity and immunotherapy. Int J Hematol 2022; 116:837-845. [PMID: 36271224 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-022-03466-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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
EZH2 is a histone methyltransferase. It catalyzes trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3) to control gene transcription critical for cell proliferation, differentiation, expansion, and function. For instance, EZH2 plays a central role in regulating T-cell immune responses. EZH2 restrains terminal differentiation of effector CD8 T cells, promotes formation of precursor and mature memory CD8 T cells, regulates appropriate lineage-specification and identity maintenance of helper CD4 T cells, and maintains survival of differentiated antigen-specific T cells. Most importantly, EZH2 is shown to be important for reinvigoration of exhausted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Dysregulated EZH2 function has been linked to many forms of cancer, including lymphomas and solid tumors. In B-cell lymphoid malignancies, EZH2 is overexpressed to drive tumorigenesis. These specific effects of EZH2, in the context of its roles in catalyzing H3K27me3 and orchestrating gene transcription programs in both normal and malignant cells, establishes EZH2 as a unique target for drug development. Here, we will discuss Ezh2 regulation of T-cell immunity, EZH2-mediated lymphomagenesis, and therapeutic benefits of EZH2 inhibitors to the treatment of lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Center for Discovery & Innovation, Hackensack University Medical Center, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Tien Bui
- Center for Discovery & Innovation, Hackensack University Medical Center, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Yi Zhang
- Center for Discovery & Innovation, Hackensack University Medical Center, Nutley, NJ, USA.
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Yang Y, Liu K, Liu M, Zhang H, Guo M. EZH2: Its regulation and roles in immune disturbance of SLE. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1002741. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1002741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is related to immune homeostasis imbalance. Epigenetic mechanisms have played a significant role in breaking immune tolerance. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the specific methylation transferase of lysine at position 27 of histone 3, is currently found to participate in the pathogenesis of SLE through affecting multiple components of the immune system. This review mainly expounds the mechanisms underlying EZH2-mediated disruption of immune homeostasis in SLE patients, hoping to provide new ideas in the pathogenesis of SLE and new targets for future treatment.
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8
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Li T. The functions of polycomb group proteins in T cells. CELL INSIGHT 2022; 1:100048. [PMID: 37193554 PMCID: PMC10120301 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2022.100048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
T cells are involved in many aspects of adaptive immunity, including autoimmunity, anti-tumor activity, and responses to allergenic substances and pathogens. T cells undergo comprehensive epigenome remodeling in response to signals. Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are a well-studied complex of chromatin regulators, conserved in animals, and function in various biological processes. PcG proteins are divided into two distinct complexes: PRC1 (Polycomb repressive complex 1) and PRC2. PcG is correlated with the regulation of T cell development, phenotypic transformation, and function. In contrast, PcG dysregulation is correlated with pathogenesis of immune-mediated diseases and compromised anti-tumor responses. This review discusses recent findings on the involvement of PcG proteins in T cell maturation, differentiation, and activation. In addition, we explore implications in the development of the immune system diseases and cancer immunity, which offers promising targets for various treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin, 300070, China
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9
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German B, Ellis L. Polycomb Directed Cell Fate Decisions in Development and Cancer. EPIGENOMES 2022; 6:28. [PMID: 36135315 PMCID: PMC9497807 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes6030028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The polycomb group (PcG) proteins are a subset of transcription regulators highly conserved throughout evolution. Their principal role is to epigenetically modify chromatin landscapes and control the expression of master transcriptional programs to determine cellular identity. The two mayor PcG protein complexes that have been identified in mammals to date are Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 (PRC1) and 2 (PRC2). These protein complexes selectively repress gene expression via the induction of covalent post-translational histone modifications, promoting chromatin structure stabilization. PRC2 catalyzes the histone H3 methylation at lysine 27 (H3K27me1/2/3), inducing heterochromatin structures. This activity is controlled by the formation of a multi-subunit complex, which includes enhancer of zeste (EZH2), embryonic ectoderm development protein (EED), and suppressor of zeste 12 (SUZ12). This review will summarize the latest insights into how PRC2 in mammalian cells regulates transcription to orchestrate the temporal and tissue-specific expression of genes to determine cell identity and cell-fate decisions. We will specifically describe how PRC2 dysregulation in different cell types can promote phenotypic plasticity and/or non-mutational epigenetic reprogramming, inducing the development of highly aggressive epithelial neuroendocrine carcinomas, including prostate, small cell lung, and Merkel cell cancer. With this, EZH2 has emerged as an important actionable therapeutic target in such cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz German
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Leigh Ellis
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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10
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Yan J, Chen Y, Patel AJ, Warda S, Lee CJ, Nixon BG, Wong EW, Miranda-Román MA, Yang N, Wang Y, Pachai MR, Sher J, Giff E, Tang F, Khurana E, Singer S, Liu Y, Galbo PM, Maag JL, Koche RP, Zheng D, Antonescu CR, Deng L, Li MO, Chen Y, Chi P. Tumor-intrinsic PRC2 inactivation drives a context-dependent immune-desert microenvironment and is sensitized by immunogenic viruses. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e153437. [PMID: 35852856 PMCID: PMC9433107 DOI: 10.1172/jci153437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has demonstrated clinical success in "inflamed" tumors with substantial T cell infiltrates, but tumors with an immune-desert tumor microenvironment (TME) fail to benefit. The tumor cell-intrinsic molecular mechanisms of the immune-desert phenotype remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that inactivation of the polycomb-repressive complex 2 (PRC2) core components embryonic ectoderm development (EED) or suppressor of zeste 12 homolog (SUZ12), a prevalent genetic event in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) and sporadically in other cancers, drove a context-dependent immune-desert TME. PRC2 inactivation reprogramed the chromatin landscape that led to a cell-autonomous shift from primed baseline signaling-dependent cellular responses (e.g., IFN-γ signaling) to PRC2-regulated developmental and cellular differentiation transcriptional programs. Further, PRC2 inactivation led to diminished tumor immune infiltrates through reduced chemokine production and impaired antigen presentation and T cell priming, resulting in primary resistance to ICB. Intratumoral delivery of inactivated modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) enhanced tumor immune infiltrates and sensitized PRC2-loss tumors to ICB. Our results identify molecular mechanisms of PRC2 inactivation-mediated, context-dependent epigenetic reprogramming that underline the immune-desert phenotype in cancer. Our studies also point to intratumoral delivery of immunogenic viruses as an initial therapeutic strategy to modulate the immune-desert TME and capitalize on the clinical benefit of ICB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yan
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yuedan Chen
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Amish J. Patel
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sarah Warda
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Cindy J. Lee
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Briana G. Nixon
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute
| | - Elissa W.P. Wong
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Miguel A. Miranda-Román
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, and
| | - Ning Yang
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yi Wang
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mohini R. Pachai
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jessica Sher
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Emily Giff
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Fanying Tang
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine
- Meyer Cancer Center, and
| | - Ekta Khurana
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine
- Meyer Cancer Center, and
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sam Singer
- Department of Surgery, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Phillip M. Galbo
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Jesper L.V. Maag
- Center for Epigenetics Research, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Richard P. Koche
- Center for Epigenetics Research, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Deyou Zheng
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, and
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | - Liang Deng
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ming O. Li
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute
- Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, and
| | - Yu Chen
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ping Chi
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, MSK Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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11
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Xu WD, Huang Q, Huang AF. Emerging role of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases: A comprehensive review. Int J Rheum Dis 2022; 25:1230-1238. [PMID: 35933601 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone methylated enzyme. It trimethylates histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27) to regulate epigenetic processes. Recently, studies showed excessive expression of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and systemic sclerosis. Moreover, epigenetic modification of EZH2 regulates differentiation and proliferation of different immune cells. Therefore, in this review, we comprehensively discuss the role of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases. Collection of the evidence may provide a basis for further understanding the role of EZH2 and give potential for targeting these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Dong Xu
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qi Huang
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - An-Fang Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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12
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Granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells to prevent and treat murine immune-mediated bone marrow failure. Blood Adv 2022; 7:73-86. [PMID: 35895513 PMCID: PMC9827041 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022007254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are immature myeloid cells that originate in the bone marrow (BM) and have immunoregulatory functions. MDSCs have been implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases but have not been investigated in immune aplastic anemia (AA). We examined the roles of granulocytic-MDSCs (G-MDSCs) in murine models of human AA and BM failure (BMF). As both prophylaxis and therapy, BM-derived G-MDSCs improved pancytopenia and BM cellularity and suppressed BM T-cell infiltration in major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-matched C.B10 BMF mice. These effects were not obtained in the MHC-mismatched CByB6F1 AA model, likely because of MHC disparity between G-MDSCs and donor T cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing demonstrated that G-MDSCs downregulated cell cycle-related genes in BM-infiltrated T cells, consistent with suppression of T-cell proliferation by G-MDSCs through reactive oxygen species pathways. Clearance of G-MDSCs in the MHC-mismatched CByB6F1 model using anti-Ly6G antibody facilitated T cell-mediated BM destruction, suggesting an intrinsic immunosuppressive property of G-MDSCs. However, the same anti-Ly6G antibody in the MHC-matched C.B10 AA model mildly mitigated BMF, associated with expansion of an intermediate Ly6G population. Our results demonstrate that G-MDSC eradication and therapeutic efficacy are immune context-dependent.
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13
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He C, Yang Y, Chen Z, Liu S, Lyu T, Zeng L, Wang L, Li Y, Wang M, Chen H, Zhang F. EZH2 Promotes T Follicular Helper Cell Differentiation Through Enhancing STAT3 Phosphorylation in Patients With Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome. Front Immunol 2022; 13:922871. [PMID: 35795677 PMCID: PMC9252457 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.922871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesEnhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is an epigenetic regulator that plays an essential role in immune system development and autoimmune diseases. This study aimed to characterize the role of EZH2 in the pathogenesis of primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS).MethodsWe analyzed EZH2 expression in two transcriptomic datasets of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from pSS patients and healthy controls. We measured EZH2 expression in CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and CD19+ B cells from pSS patients and healthy controls and correlated EZH2 expression with clinical parameters. We also examined the activation, proliferation, and T-cell differentiation of CD4+ T cells using the EZH2 inhibitor GSK126, EZH2 siRNA, and EZH2-expressing vector. We further examined the STAT3 signaling pathway after EZH2 inhibition and detected Tfh differentiation in EZH2-overexpressed CD4+ T cells with STAT3 knocked down.ResultsEZH2 was upregulated in GSE164885 and GSE48378. EZH2 expression was higher in pSS CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and EZH2 expression in circulating pSS CD4+ T cells was positively correlated with IgG, IgA, ESR, RF, and the circulating Tfh population. EZH2 inhibition and silencing EZH2 suppressed activation, proliferation, and Tfh differentiation. Furthermore, overexpressing EZH2 promoted activation, proliferation, and Tfh differentiation in CD4+ T cells. EZH2 inhibition attenuated STAT3 phosphorylation in CD4+ T cells. STAT3 knockdown abrogated EZH2-promoted Tfh differentiation.ConclusionsEZH2 expression was abnormally elevated in pSS CD4+ T cells, which facilitated Tfh differentiation of CD4+ T cells by enhancing STAT3 phosphorylation. EZH2 promotes Tfh differentiation and might be implicated in pSS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengmei He
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yanlei Yang
- Medical Science Research Centre, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhilei Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Taibiao Lyu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Liuting Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yongzhe Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mu Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hua Chen, ; Fengchun Zhang,
| | - Fengchun Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hua Chen, ; Fengchun Zhang,
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Nair VS, Heredia M, Samsom J, Huehn J. Impact of gut microenvironment on epigenetic signatures of intestinal T helper cell subsets. Immunol Lett 2022; 246:27-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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15
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Melo GA, Calôba C, Brum G, Passos TO, Martinez GJ, Pereira RM. Epigenetic regulation of T cells by Polycomb group proteins. J Leukoc Biol 2022; 111:1253-1267. [DOI: 10.1002/jlb.2ri0122-039r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme A. Melo
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Departamento de Imunologia Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro RJ Brazil
| | - Carolina Calôba
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Departamento de Imunologia Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro RJ Brazil
| | - Gabrielle Brum
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Departamento de Imunologia Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro RJ Brazil
| | - Thaís O. Passos
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Departamento de Imunologia Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro RJ Brazil
| | - Gustavo J. Martinez
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection, Discipline of Microbiology and Immunology Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Renata M. Pereira
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Departamento de Imunologia Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro RJ Brazil
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16
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Schuldt L, Reimann M, von Brandenstein K, Steinmetz J, Döding A, Schulze-Späte U, Jacobs C, Symmank J. Palmitate-Triggered COX2/PGE2-Related Hyperinflammation in Dual-Stressed PdL Fibroblasts Is Mediated by Repressive H3K27 Trimethylation. Cells 2022; 11:955. [PMID: 35326406 PMCID: PMC8946768 DOI: 10.3390/cells11060955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The interrelationships between periodontal disease, obesity-related hyperlipidemia and mechanical forces and their modulating effects on the epigenetic profile of periodontal ligament (PdL) cells are assumed to be remarkably complex. The PdL serves as a connective tissue between teeth and alveolar bone and is involved in pathogen defense and the inflammatory responses to mechanical stimuli occurring during tooth movement. Altered inflammatory signaling could promote root resorption and tooth loss. Hyperinflammatory COX2/PGE2 signaling was reported for human PdL fibroblasts (HPdLFs) concomitantly stressed with Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharides and compressive force after exposure to palmitic acid (PA). The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which this was modulated by global and gene-specific changes in histone modifications. The expression of key epigenetic players and global H3Kac and H3K27me3 levels were quantitatively evaluated in dual-stressed HPdLFs exposed to PA, revealing a minor force-related reduction in repressive H3K27me3. UNC1999-induced H3K27me3 inhibition reversed the hyperinflammatory responses of dual-stressed PA cultures characterized by increased COX2 expression, PGE2 secretion and THP1 adhesion. The reduced expression of the gene encoding the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and the increased presence of H3K27me3 at its promoter-associated sites were reversed by inhibitor treatment. Thus, the data highlight an important epigenetic interplay between the different stimuli to which the PdL is exposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Schuldt
- Orthodontic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthodontics, University Hospital Jena, Leutragraben 3, 07743 Jena, Germany; (L.S.); (K.v.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Michael Reimann
- Section of Geriodontics, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontics, University Hospital Jena, Leutragraben 3, 07743 Jena, Germany; (M.R.); (A.D.); (U.S.-S.)
| | - Katrin von Brandenstein
- Orthodontic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthodontics, University Hospital Jena, Leutragraben 3, 07743 Jena, Germany; (L.S.); (K.v.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Julia Steinmetz
- Orthodontic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthodontics, University Hospital Jena, Leutragraben 3, 07743 Jena, Germany; (L.S.); (K.v.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Annika Döding
- Section of Geriodontics, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontics, University Hospital Jena, Leutragraben 3, 07743 Jena, Germany; (M.R.); (A.D.); (U.S.-S.)
| | - Ulrike Schulze-Späte
- Section of Geriodontics, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontics, University Hospital Jena, Leutragraben 3, 07743 Jena, Germany; (M.R.); (A.D.); (U.S.-S.)
| | - Collin Jacobs
- Center for Dental, Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine, Department of Orthodontics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany;
| | - Judit Symmank
- Orthodontic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthodontics, University Hospital Jena, Leutragraben 3, 07743 Jena, Germany; (L.S.); (K.v.B.); (J.S.)
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17
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Huang J, Zhang J, Guo Z, Li C, Tan Z, Wang J, Yang J, Xue L. Easy or Not-The Advances of EZH2 in Regulating T Cell Development, Differentiation, and Activation in Antitumor Immunity. Front Immunol 2021; 12:741302. [PMID: 34737746 PMCID: PMC8560704 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.741302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is the catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), which regulates downstream gene expression by trimethylation of lysine 27 in histone H3 (H3K27me3). EZH2 mutations or overexpressions are associated with many types of cancer. As inhibition of EZH2 activity could upregulate the expression of tumor suppressor genes, EZH2 has recently become an interesting therapeutic target for cancer therapy. Moreover, accumulating evidence has shown that EZH2 may contribute to the regulation of immune cells, especially T cells. EZH2 regulates T cell development, differentiation, and function, suggesting that EZH2 also regulates immune homeostasis in addition to tumor suppressor genes. Moreover, EZH2 can regulate T cell fate by targeting non-T cell factors such as metabolism, cytokines, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. The role of EZH2 in this process has not been fully addressed. This review discusses up-to-date research on EZH2-mediated regulation of immunological function and the progress of immunological therapeutic strategies based on this regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengyang Guo
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Tan
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianling Yang
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lixiang Xue
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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18
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Titelbaum M, Brant B, Baumel D, Burstein-Willensky A, Perez S, Barsheshet Y, Avni O. Ezh2 harnesses the intranuclear actin cytoskeleton to remodel chromatin in differentiating Th cells. iScience 2021; 24:103093. [PMID: 34622148 PMCID: PMC8479699 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Following their first interaction with the antigen, quiescent naive T-helper (Th; CD4+) cells enlarge, differentiate, and proliferate; these processes are accompanied by substantial epigenetic alterations. We showed previously that the epigenetic regulators the polycomb-group (PcG) proteins have a dual function as both positive and negative transcriptional regulators; however, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that during Th cell differentiation the methyltransferase activity of the PcG protein Ezh2 regulates post-transcriptionally inducible assembly of intranuclear actin filaments. These filaments are colocalized with the actin regulators Vav1 and WASp, vertically oriented to the T cell receptor, and intermingle with the chromatin fibers. Ezh2 and Vav1 are observed together at chromatin-actin intersections. Furthermore, the inducible assembly of nuclear actin filaments is required for chromatin spreading and nuclear growth. Altogether these findings delineate a model in which the epigenetic machinery orchestrates the dynamic mechanical force of the intranuclear cytoskeleton to reorganize chromatin during differentiation. Ezh2 regulates post-transcriptionally the inducible assembly of intranuclear F-actin F-actin is oriented toward the TCR and intermingled with the chromatin fibers F-actin is required for chromatin spreading and nuclear growth The epigenetic machinery harnesses intranuclear cytoskeleton to reorganize chromatin
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Affiliation(s)
- Moran Titelbaum
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Boris Brant
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Daniel Baumel
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | | | - Shira Perez
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | | | - Orly Avni
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
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19
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Barili V, Vecchi A, Rossi M, Montali I, Tiezzi C, Penna A, Laccabue D, Missale G, Fisicaro P, Boni C. Unraveling the Multifaceted Nature of CD8 T Cell Exhaustion Provides the Molecular Basis for Therapeutic T Cell Reconstitution in Chronic Hepatitis B and C. Cells 2021; 10:2563. [PMID: 34685543 PMCID: PMC8533840 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In chronic hepatitis B and C virus infections persistently elevated antigen levels drive CD8+ T cells toward a peculiar differentiation state known as T cell exhaustion, which poses crucial constraints to antiviral immunity. Available evidence indicates that T cell exhaustion is associated with a series of metabolic and signaling deregulations and with a very peculiar epigenetic status which all together lead to reduced effector functions. A clear mechanistic network explaining how intracellular metabolic derangements, transcriptional and signaling alterations so far described are interconnected in a comprehensive and unified view of the T cell exhaustion differentiation profile is still lacking. Addressing this issue is of key importance for the development of innovative strategies to boost host immunity in order to achieve viral clearance. This review will discuss the current knowledge in HBV and HCV infections, addressing how innate immunity, metabolic derangements, extensive stress responses and altered epigenetic programs may be targeted to restore functionality and responsiveness of virus-specific CD8 T cells in the context of chronic virus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Barili
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Vecchi
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
| | - Marzia Rossi
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Montali
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Camilla Tiezzi
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
| | - Amalia Penna
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
| | - Diletta Laccabue
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Gabriele Missale
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Paola Fisicaro
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Carolina Boni
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.B.); (A.V.); (M.R.); (I.M.); (C.T.); (A.P.); (D.L.); (G.M.)
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20
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Zhao C, Zhang Y, Zheng H. The Effects of Interferons on Allogeneic T Cell Response in GVHD: The Multifaced Biology and Epigenetic Regulations. Front Immunol 2021; 12:717540. [PMID: 34305954 PMCID: PMC8297501 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.717540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a potentially curative therapy for hematological malignancies. This beneficial effect is derived mainly from graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effects mediated by alloreactive T cells. However, these alloreactive T cells can also induce graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a life-threatening complication after allo-HSCT. Significant progress has been made in the dissociation of GVL effects from GVHD by modulating alloreactive T cell immunity. However, many factors may influence alloreactive T cell responses in the host undergoing allo-HSCT, including the interaction of alloreactive T cells with both donor and recipient hematopoietic cells and host non-hematopoietic tissues, cytokines, chemokines and inflammatory mediators. Interferons (IFNs), including type I IFNs and IFN-γ, primarily produced by monocytes, dendritic cells and T cells, play essential roles in regulating alloreactive T cell differentiation and function. Many studies have shown pleiotropic effects of IFNs on allogeneic T cell responses during GVH reaction. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, are important to regulate IFNs’ production and function during GVHD. In this review, we discuss recent findings from preclinical models and clinical studies that characterize T cell responses regulated by IFNs and epigenetic mechanisms, and further discuss pharmacological approaches that modulate epigenetic effects in the setting of allo-HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Zhao
- Penn State Cancer Institute, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Yi Zhang
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hong Zheng
- Penn State Cancer Institute, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
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21
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Chiara VD, Daxinger L, Staal FJT. The Route of Early T Cell Development: Crosstalk between Epigenetic and Transcription Factors. Cells 2021; 10:1074. [PMID: 33946533 PMCID: PMC8147249 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic multipotent progenitors seed the thymus and then follow consecutive developmental stages until the formation of mature T cells. During this process, phenotypic changes of T cells entail stage-specific transcriptional programs that underlie the dynamic progression towards mature lymphocytes. Lineage-specific transcription factors are key drivers of T cell specification and act in conjunction with epigenetic regulators that have also been elucidated as crucial players in the establishment of regulatory networks necessary for proper T cell development. In this review, we summarize the activity of transcription factors and epigenetic regulators that together orchestrate the intricacies of early T cell development with a focus on regulation of T cell lineage commitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Della Chiara
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC), 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (V.D.C.); (L.D.)
| | - Lucia Daxinger
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC), 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (V.D.C.); (L.D.)
| | - Frank J. T. Staal
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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22
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Kim HJ, Cantor H, Cosmopoulos K. Overcoming Immune Checkpoint Blockade Resistance via EZH2 Inhibition. Trends Immunol 2021; 41:948-963. [PMID: 32976740 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2020.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent progress in cancer immunotherapy highlights the power of the immune system to control tumors, although a small patient subset responds to current immunotherapies. Additional approaches to mobilize antitumor immunity are required to overcome primary and acquired resistance to immunotherapy such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Emerging evidence shows that targeting epigenetic elements that promote tumor progression and inhibit immune cell activity can enhance antitumor immunity by reshaping the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we review the pleiotropic functions in tumor and immune cells of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), with a focus on EZH2 inhibition as a potentially promising approach to enhance current immunotherapies and improve patient outcomes for certain cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Jung Kim
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Harvey Cantor
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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23
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Pyziak K, Sroka-Porada A, Rzymski T, Dulak J, Łoboda A. Potential of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibitors for the treatment of SWI/SNF mutant cancers and tumor microenvironment modulation. Drug Dev Res 2021; 82:730-753. [PMID: 33565092 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a catalytic component of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), is commonly overexpressed or mutated in many cancer types, both of hematological and solid nature. Till now, plenty of EZH2 small molecule inhibitors have been developed and some of them have already been tested in clinical trials. Most of these inhibitors, however, are effective only in limited cases in the context of EZH2 gain-of-function mutated tumors such as lymphomas. Other cancer types with aberrant EZH2 expression and function require alternative approaches for successful treatment. One possibility is to exploit synthetic lethal strategy, which is based on the phenomenon that concurrent loss of two genes is detrimental but the deletion of either of them leaves cell viable. In the context of EZH2/PRC2, the most promising synthetic lethal target seems to be SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable chromatin remodeling complex (SWI/SNF), which is known to counteract PRC2 functions. SWI/SNF is heavily involved in carcinogenesis and its subunits have been found mutated in approximately 20% of tumors of different kinds. In the current review, we summarize the existing knowledge of synthetic lethal relationships between EZH2/PRC2 and components of the SWI/SNF complex and discuss in detail the potential application of existing EZH2 inhibitors in cancer patients harboring mutations in SWI/SNF proteins. We also highlight recent discoveries of EZH2 involvement in tumor microenvironment regulation and consequences for future therapies. Although clinical studies are limited, the fundamental research might help to understand which patients are most likely to benefit from therapies using EZH2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Pyziak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland.,Biology R&D, Ryvu Therapeutics S.A., Kraków, Poland
| | | | | | - Józef Dulak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Łoboda
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
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24
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Naimi A, Safaei S, Entezari A, Solali S, Hassanzadeh A. Knockdown of Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 Affects mRNA Expression of Genes Involved in the Induction of Resistance to Apoptosis in MOLT-4 Cells. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 20:571-579. [PMID: 32000648 DOI: 10.2174/1871520620666200130091955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2) is a subunit of the polycomb repressive complex 2 that silences the gene transcription via H3K27me3. Previous studies have shown that EZH2 has an important role in the induction of the resistance against the Tumor necrosis factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand (TRAIL)-Induced Apoptosis (TIA) in some leukemia cells. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the effect of silencing EZH2 gene expression using RNA interference on the expression of death receptors 4 and 5 (DR4/5), Preferentially expressed Antigen in Melanoma (PRAME), and TRAIL human lymphoid leukemia MOLT-4 cells. METHODS Quantitative RT-PCR was used to detect the EZH2 expression and other candidate genes following the siRNA knockdown in MOLT-4 cells. The toxicity of the EZH2 siRNA was evaluated using Annexin V/PI assay following the transfection of the cells by 80 pM EZH2 siRNA at 48 hours. RESULTS Based on the flow-cytometry results, the EZH2 siRNA had no toxic effects on MOLT-4 cells. Also, the EZH2 inhibition increased the expression of DR4/5 but reduced the PRAME gene expression at the mRNA levels. Moreover, the EZH2 silencing could not change the TRAIL mRNA in the transfected cells. CONCLUSION Our results revealed that the down-regulation of EZH2 in MOLT-4 cells was able to affect the expression of important genes involved in the induction of resistance against TIA. Hence, we suggest that the silencing of EZH2 using RNA interference can be an effective and safe approach to help defeat the MOLT-4 cell resistance against TIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel Naimi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Science, Sabzevar, Iran.,Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Sahar Safaei
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Atefeh Entezari
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saeed Solali
- Department of Immunology, Division of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Hassanzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Division of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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25
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Uhlorn JA, Husband NA, Romero‐Aleshire MJ, Moffett C, Lindsey ML, Langlais PR, Brooks HL. CD4 + T Cell-Specific Proteomic Pathways Identified in Progression of Hypertension Across Postmenopausal Transition. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e018038. [PMID: 33410333 PMCID: PMC7955317 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.018038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Menopause is associated with an increase in the prevalence and severity of hypertension in women. Although premenopausal females are protected against T cell-dependent immune activation and development of angiotensin II (Ang II) hypertension, this protection is lost in postmenopausal females. Therefore, the current study hypothesized that specific CD4+ T cell pathways are regulated by sex hormones and Ang II to mediate progression from premenopausal protection to postmenopausal hypertension. Methods and Results Menopause was induced in C57BL/6 mice via repeated 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide injections, while premenopausal females received sesame oil vehicle. A subset of premenopausal mice and all menopausal mice were infused with Ang II for 14 days (Control, Ang II, Meno/Ang II). Proteomic and phosphoproteomic profiles of CD4+ T cells isolated from spleens were examined. Ang II markedly increased CD4+ T cell protein abundance and phosphorylation associated with DNA and histone methylation in both premenopausal and postmenopausal females. Compared with premenopausal T cells, Ang II infusion in menopausal mice increased T cell phosphorylation of MP2K2, an upstream regulator of ERK, and was associated with upregulated phosphorylation at ERK targeted sites. Additionally, Ang II infusion in menopausal mice decreased T cell phosphorylation of TLN1, a key regulator of IL-2Rα and FOXP3 expression. Conclusions These findings identify novel, distinct T cell pathways that influence T cell-mediated inflammation during postmenopausal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A. Uhlorn
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZ
| | | | | | - Caitlin Moffett
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZ
| | - Merry L. Lindsey
- Department of Cellular and Integrative PhysiologyCenter for Heart and Vascular ResearchNebraska‐Western Iowa Health Care SystemUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center and Research ServiceOmahaNE
| | - Paul R. Langlais
- Department of MedicineCollege of MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZ
| | - Heddwen L. Brooks
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZ
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26
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Willcockson MA, Healton SE, Weiss CN, Bartholdy BA, Botbol Y, Mishra LN, Sidhwani DS, Wilson TJ, Pinto HB, Maron MI, Skalina KA, Toro LN, Zhao J, Lee CH, Hou H, Yusufova N, Meydan C, Osunsade A, David Y, Cesarman E, Melnick AM, Sidoli S, Garcia BA, Edelmann W, Macian F, Skoultchi AI. H1 histones control the epigenetic landscape by local chromatin compaction. Nature 2021; 589:293-298. [PMID: 33299182 PMCID: PMC8110206 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-3032-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
H1 linker histones are the most abundant chromatin-binding proteins1. In vitro studies indicate that their association with chromatin determines nucleosome spacing and enables arrays of nucleosomes to fold into more compact chromatin structures. However, the in vivo roles of H1 are poorly understood2. Here we show that the local density of H1 controls the balance of repressive and active chromatin domains by promoting genomic compaction. We generated a conditional triple-H1-knockout mouse strain and depleted H1 in haematopoietic cells. H1 depletion in T cells leads to de-repression of T cell activation genes, a process that mimics normal T cell activation. Comparison of chromatin structure in normal and H1-depleted CD8+ T cells reveals that H1-mediated chromatin compaction occurs primarily in regions of the genome containing higher than average levels of H1: the chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) B compartment and regions of the Hi-C A compartment marked by PRC2. Reduction of H1 stoichiometry leads to decreased H3K27 methylation, increased H3K36 methylation, B-to-A-compartment shifting and an increase in interaction frequency between compartments. In vitro, H1 promotes PRC2-mediated H3K27 methylation and inhibits NSD2-mediated H3K36 methylation. Mechanistically, H1 mediates these opposite effects by promoting physical compaction of the chromatin substrate. Our results establish H1 as a critical regulator of gene silencing through localized control of chromatin compaction, 3D genome organization and the epigenetic landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sean E Healton
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cary N Weiss
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Boris A Bartholdy
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yair Botbol
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laxmi N Mishra
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dhruv S Sidhwani
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tommy J Wilson
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hugo B Pinto
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maxim I Maron
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karin A Skalina
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laura Norwood Toro
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jie Zhao
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chul-Hwan Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Harry Hou
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nevin Yusufova
- Cell & Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cem Meydan
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adewola Osunsade
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yael David
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ethel Cesarman
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ari M Melnick
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Simone Sidoli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Smilow Center for Translational Research, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Benjamin A Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Smilow Center for Translational Research, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Winfried Edelmann
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fernando Macian
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Arthur I Skoultchi
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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27
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Li H, Li J, Lu T, Chen D, Xu R, Sun W, Luo X, Li H, Ma R, Wen W. DZNep attenuates allergic airway inflammation in an ovalbumin-induced murine model. Mol Immunol 2020; 131:60-67. [PMID: 33358566 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2020.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing evidence shows that enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) plays a role in various physiological functions and cancer pathogenesis. However, its contribution to allergic diseases remains controversial. We sought to investigate the role of EZH2 in the pathogenesis of allergic airway inflammation. METHODS 3-Deazaneplanocin A (DZNep), an indirect inhibitor of EZH2, was administered via intraperitoneal injection in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced murine model of allergic airway inflammation. The expression of EZH2 in the allergic airway tissues was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blot. The inflammatory cell infiltration and the goblet cell hyperplasia in the murine nose and lung were detected by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining. Levels of cytokines, including IL-4, IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL-10, were evaluated in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) using Enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS EZH2 expression was inhibited by DZNep treatment (P < 0.05). The administration of DZNep significantly inhibited the inflammatory cell infiltration (P < 0.0001) and goblet cell hyperplasia (P < 0.001). Moreover, it suppressed the secretion of IL-4 (P < 0.0001) and IL-6 (P < 0.01) in the BALF. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that DZNep attenuates allergic airway inflammation and could be a new therapeutic option for allergic rhinitis and asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Otorhinolaryngology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Otorhinolaryngology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tong Lu
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Otorhinolaryngology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dehua Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Otorhinolaryngology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Otorhinolaryngology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Otorhinolaryngology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xi Luo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huabin Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Renqiang Ma
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Otorhinolaryngology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Weiping Wen
- Department of Otolaryngology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Otorhinolaryngology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Department of Otolaryngology, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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28
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Running to Stand Still: Naive CD8 + T Cells Actively Maintain a Program of Quiescence. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249773. [PMID: 33371448 PMCID: PMC7767439 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
CD8+ T cells play a pivotal role in clearing intracellular pathogens and combatting tumours. Upon infection, naïve CD8+ T cells differentiate into effector and memory cells, and this program is underscored by large-scale and coordinated changes in the chromatin architecture and gene expression. Importantly, recent evidence demonstrates that the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate the capacity for rapid effector function of memory T cells are shared by innate immune cells such as natural killer (NK) cells. Thus, it appears that the crucial difference between innate and adaptive immunity is the presence of the naïve state. This important distinction raises an intriguing new hypothesis, that the naïve state was evolutionary installed to restrain a default program of effector and memory differentiation in response to antigen recognition. We argue that the hallmark of adaptive T immunity is therefore the naïve program, which actively maintains CD8+ T cell quiescence until receipt of appropriate activation signals. In this review, we examine the mechanistic control of naïve CD8+ T cell quiescence and summarise the multiple levels of restraint imposed in naïve cells in to limit spontaneous and inappropriate activation. This includes epigenetic mechanisms and transcription factor (TF) regulation of gene expression, in addition to novel inhibitory receptors, abundance of RNA, and protein degradation.
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29
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Wang Y, Wang Q, Wang B, Gu Y, Yu H, Yang W, Ren X, Qian F, Zhao X, Xiao Y, Zhang Y, Jin M, Zhu M. Inhibition of EZH2 ameliorates bacteria-induced liver injury by repressing RUNX1 in dendritic cells. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:1024. [PMID: 33262329 PMCID: PMC7708645 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03219-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) is a clinical syndrome characterized by a sudden and severe impairment in liver function. However, the precise mechanism of immune dysregulation that is significant to FHF pathogenesis remains unclear. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has been implicated in inflammation as a regulator of immune cell function. In this study, we investigated the role of EZH2 in an animal model of human FHF induced by Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We demonstrated that EZH2 depletion in dendritic cells (DCs) and pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 using GSK126 both significantly ameliorated liver injury and improved the survival rates of mice with P. acnes plus LPS-induced FHF, which could be attributed to the decreased infiltration and activation of CD4+ T cells in the liver, inhibition of T helper 1 cells and induction of regulatory T cells. The expression of EZH2 in DCs was increased after P. acnes administration, and EZH2 deficiency in DCs suppressed DC maturation and prevented DCs from efficiently stimulating CD4+ T-cell proliferation. Further mechanistic analyses indicated that EZH2 deficiency directly increased the expression of the transcription factor RUNX1 and thereby suppressed the immune functions of DCs. The functional dependence of EZH2 on RUNX1 was further illustrated in DC-specific Ezh2-deficient mice. Taken together, our findings establish that EZH2 exhibits anti-inflammatory effects through inhibition of RUNX1 to regulate DC functions and that inhibition of EZH2 alleviates P. acnes plus LPS-induced FHF, probably by inhibiting DC-induced adaptive immune responses. These results highlight the effect of EZH2 on DCs, serving as a guide for the development of a promising immunotherapeutic strategy for FHF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiwei Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bei Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuting Gu
- Department of Stomatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongshuang Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanlin Yang
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaohui Ren
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Fengtao Qian
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaonan Zhao
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yichuan Xiao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanyun Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Min Jin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Stomatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Meiling Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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30
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The Epigenetic Regulator EZH2 Instructs CD4 T Cell Response to Acute Viral Infection via Coupling of Cell Expansion and Metabolic Fitness. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.01627-20. [PMID: 32999031 PMCID: PMC7925195 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01627-20] [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: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The CD4 T cell response is critical in curtailing viral infection or eliciting efficacious viral vaccination. Highly efficient expansion of virus-specific CD4 T cells culminates in a qualified CD4 T cell response. Here, we found that the epigenetic regulator EZH2 is a prerequisite for the virus-specific CD4 T cell response, with a mechanism coupling cell expansion and metabolism. Thus, our study provides valuable insights for strategies targeting EZH2 to improve the efficacy of CD4 T cell-based viral vaccines and to help treat diseases associated with aberrant CD4 T cell responses. The protection of a majority of viral vaccines is mediated by CD4 T cell-dependent humoral immunity. The methyltransferase enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) dictates the differentiation of naive CD4 T cells into distinct effector T helper subsets at the onset of acute viral infection. However, whether and how EZH2 manipulates differentiated virus-specific CD4 T cell expansion remain to be elucidated. Here, we found that EZH2 is integral for virus-specific CD4 T cell expansion in a mouse model of acute viral infection. By a mechanism that involves fine-tuning the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, EZH2 participates in integrating metabolic pathways to support cell expansion. The genetic ablation of EZH2 leads to impaired cellular metabolism and, consequently, poor CD4 T cell response to acute viral infection. Thus, we identified EZH2 as a novel regulator in virus-specific CD4 T cell expansion during acute viral infection. IMPORTANCE The CD4 T cell response is critical in curtailing viral infection or eliciting efficacious viral vaccination. Highly efficient expansion of virus-specific CD4 T cells culminates in a qualified CD4 T cell response. Here, we found that the epigenetic regulator EZH2 is a prerequisite for the virus-specific CD4 T cell response, with a mechanism coupling cell expansion and metabolism. Thus, our study provides valuable insights for strategies targeting EZH2 to improve the efficacy of CD4 T cell-based viral vaccines and to help treat diseases associated with aberrant CD4 T cell responses.
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31
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Pham D, Moseley CE, Gao M, Savic D, Winstead CJ, Sun M, Kee BL, Myers RM, Weaver CT, Hatton RD. Batf Pioneers the Reorganization of Chromatin in Developing Effector T Cells via Ets1-Dependent Recruitment of Ctcf. Cell Rep 2020; 29:1203-1220.e7. [PMID: 31665634 PMCID: PMC7182170 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.09.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The basic leucine zipper transcription factor activating transcription factor-like (Batf) contributes to transcriptional programming of multiple effector T cells and is required for T helper 17 (Th17) and T follicular helper (Tfh) cell development. Here, we examine mechanisms by which Batf initiates gene transcription in developing effector CD4 T cells. We find that, in addition to its pioneering function, Batf controls developmentally regulated recruitment of the architectural factor Ctcf to promote chromatin looping that is associated with lineage-specific gene transcription. The chromatin-organizing actions of Batf are largely dependent on Ets1, which appears to be indispensable for the Batf-dependent recruitment of Ctcf. Moreover, most of the Batf-dependent sites to which Ctcf is recruited lie outside of activating protein-1-interferon regulatory factor (Ap-1-Irf) composite elements (AICEs), indicating that direct involvement of Batf-Irf complexes is not required. These results identify a cooperative role for Batf, Ets1, and Ctcf in chromatin reorganization that underpins the transcriptional programming of effector T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duy Pham
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Carson E Moseley
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Min Gao
- Informatics Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Daniel Savic
- Human Genomics and Genetics, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Colleen J Winstead
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Mengxi Sun
- Department of Pathology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Barbara L Kee
- Department of Pathology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Richard M Myers
- Human Genomics and Genetics, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Casey T Weaver
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Robin D Hatton
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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The complex role of EZH2 in the tumor microenvironment: opportunities and challenges for immunotherapy combinations. Future Med Chem 2020; 12:1415-1430. [PMID: 32723083 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2020-0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune dysfunction in the tumor microenvironment occurs through epigenetic changes in both tumor cells and immune cells that alter transcriptional programs driving cell fate and cell function. Oncogenic activation of the histone methyltransferase EZH2 mediates gene expression changes, governing tumor immunogenicity as well as differentiation, survival and activation states of immune lineages. Emerging preclinical studies have highlighted the potential for EZH2 inhibitors to reverse epigenetic immune suppression in tumors and combine with immune checkpoint therapies. However, EZH2 activity is essential for the development of lymphoid cells, performing critical immune effector functions within tumors. In this review, we highlight the complexity of EZH2 function in immune regulation which may impact the implementation of combination with immunotherapy agents in clinic.
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Nutt SL, Keenan C, Chopin M, Allan RS. EZH2 function in immune cell development. Biol Chem 2020; 401:933-943. [DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2019-0436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) consists of three core components EZH2, SUZ12 and EED. EZH2 catalyzes the methylation of lysine 27 of histone H3, a modification associated with gene silencing. Through gene duplication higher vertebrate genomes also encode a second partially redundant methyltransferase, EZH1. Within the mammalian immune system most research has concentrated on EZH2 which is expressed predominantly in proliferating cells. EZH2 and other PRC2 components are required for hematopoietic stem cell function and lymphocyte development, at least in part by repressing cell cycle inhibitors. At later stages of immune cell differentiation, EZH2 plays essential roles in humoral and cell-mediated adaptive immunity, as well as the maintenance of immune homeostasis. EZH2 is often overactive in cancers, through both gain-of-function mutations and over-expression, an observation that has led to the development and clinical testing of specific EZH2 inhibitors. Such inhibitors may also be of use in inflammatory and autoimmune settings, as EZH2 inhibition dampens the immune response. Here, we will review the current state of understanding of the roles for EZH2, and PRC2 more generally, in the development and function of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen L. Nutt
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Christine Keenan
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Michaël Chopin
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Rhys S. Allan
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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Kang SJ, Chun T. Structural heterogeneity of the mammalian polycomb repressor complex in immune regulation. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:1004-1015. [PMID: 32636442 PMCID: PMC8080698 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0462-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation is mainly mediated by enzymes that can modify the structure of chromatin by altering the structure of DNA or histones. Proteins involved in epigenetic processes have been identified to study the detailed molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of specific mRNA expression. Evolutionarily well-conserved polycomb group (PcG) proteins can function as transcriptional repressors by the trimethylation of histone H3 at the lysine 27 residue (H3K27me3) and the monoubiquitination of histone H2A at the lysine 119 residue (H2AK119ub). PcG proteins form two functionally distinct protein complexes: polycomb repressor complex 1 (PRC1) and PRC2. In mammals, the structural heterogeneity of each PRC complex is dramatically increased by several paralogs of its subunit proteins. Genetic studies with transgenic mice along with RNA-seq and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-seq analyses might be helpful for defining the cell-specific functions of paralogs of PcG proteins. Here, we summarize current knowledge about the immune regulatory role of PcG proteins related to the compositional diversity of each PRC complex and introduce therapeutic drugs that target PcG proteins in hematopoietic malignancy. Protein complexes that suppress gene activity by remodeling chromatin, the substance that contains most of a cell’s DNA, play a critical role in regulating the immune system and provide a therapeutic target for treating blood cancers. Seok-Jin Kang and Taehoon Chun from Korea University in Seoul, South Korea, review how polycomb group proteins, best known for their function in embryonic development, also contribute to the formation of immune cells from blood stem cell precursors. Studies with stem cells and cancer cells have begun to reveal many targets of these proteins, and drug companies are evaluating candidate agents directed against some polycomb group proteins in patients with lymphoma and other cancers. More comprehensive profiling of protein function across a broad range of immune cell types could reveal new targets for additional diseases associated with immune dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok-Jin Kang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Taehoon Chun
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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Rugo HS, Jacobs I, Sharma S, Scappaticci F, Paul TA, Jensen-Pergakes K, Malouf GG. The Promise for Histone Methyltransferase Inhibitors for Epigenetic Therapy in Clinical Oncology: A Narrative Review. Adv Ther 2020; 37:3059-3082. [PMID: 32445185 PMCID: PMC7467409 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01379-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic processes are essential for normal development and the maintenance of tissue-specific gene expression in mammals. Changes in gene expression and malignant cellular transformation can result from disruption of epigenetic mechanisms, and global disruption in the epigenetic landscape is a key feature of cancer. The study of epigenetics in cancer has revealed that human cancer cells harbor both genetic alterations and epigenetic abnormalities that interplay at all stages of cancer development. Unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic aberrations are potentially reversible through epigenetic therapy, providing a therapeutically relevant treatment option. Histone methyltransferase inhibitors are emerging as an epigenetic therapy approach with great promise in the field of clinical oncology. The recent accelerated approval of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2; also known as histone-lysine N-methyltransferase EZH2) inhibitor tazemetostat for metastatic or locally advanced epithelioid sarcoma marks the first approval of such a compound for the treatment of cancer. Many other histone methyltransferase inhibitors are currently in development, some of which are being tested in clinical studies. This review focuses on histone methyltransferase inhibitors, highlighting their potential in the treatment of cancer. We also discuss the role for such epigenetic drugs in overcoming epigenetically driven drug resistance mechanisms, and their value in combination with other therapeutic approaches such as immunotherapy.
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Dissecting the biology of allogeneic HSCT to enhance the GvT effect whilst minimizing GvHD. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2020; 17:475-492. [PMID: 32313224 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-020-0356-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) was the first successful therapy for patients with haematological malignancies, predominantly owing to graft-versus-tumour (GvT) effects. Dramatic methodological changes, designed to expand eligibility for allo-HSCT to older patients and/or those with comorbidities, have led to the use of reduced-intensity conditioning regimens, in parallel with more aggressive immunosuppression to better control graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Consequently, disease relapse has become the major cause of death following allo-HSCT. Hence, the prevention and treatment of relapse has come to the forefront and remains an unmet medical need. Despite >60 years of preclinical and clinical studies, the immunological requirements necessary to achieve GvT effects without promoting GvHD have not been fully established. Herein, we review learnings from preclinical modelling and clinical studies relating to the GvT effect, focusing on mechanisms of relapse and on immunomodulatory strategies that are being developed to overcome disease recurrence after both allo-HSCT and autologous HSCT. Emphasis is placed on discussing current knowledge and approaches predicated on the use of cell therapies, cytokines to augment immune responses and dual-purpose antibody therapies or other pharmacological agents that can control GvHD whilst simultaneously targeting cancer cells.
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Parmar N, Chandrakar P, Kar S. Leishmania donovani Subverts Host Immune Response by Epigenetic Reprogramming of Macrophage M(Lipopolysaccharides + IFN-γ)/M(IL-10) Polarization. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 204:2762-2778. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1900251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Xiao XY, Li YT, Jiang X, Ji X, Lu X, Yang B, Wu LJ, Wang XH, Guo JB, Zhao LD, Fei YY, Yang HX, Zhang W, Zhang FC, Tang FL, Zhang JM, He W, Chen H, Zhang X. EZH2 deficiency attenuates Treg differentiation in rheumatoid arthritis. J Autoimmun 2020; 108:102404. [PMID: 31952907 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2020.102404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The chromatin modifier enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) methylates lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27) and regulates T cell differentiation. However, the potential role of EZH2 in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains elusive. We analyzed EZH2 expression in PBMC, CD4+ T cells, CD19+ B cell, and CD14+ monocytes from active treatment-naïve RA patients and healthy controls (HC). We also suppressed EZH2 expression using EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 and measured CD4+ T cell differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis. We further examined TGFβ-SMAD and RUNX1 signaling pathways in EZH2-suppressed CD4+ T cells. Finally, we explored the regulation mechanism of EZH2 by RA synovial fluid and fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) by neutralizing key proinflammatory cytokines. EZH2 expression is lower in PBMC and CD4+ T cells from RA patients than those from HC. EZH2 inhibition suppressed regulatory T cells (Tregs) differentiation and FOXP3 transcription, and downregulated RUNX1 and upregulated SMAD7 expression in CD4+ T cells. RA synovial fluid and fibroblast-like synoviocytes suppressed EZH2 expression in CD4+ T cells, which was partially neutralized by anti-IL17 antibody. Taken together, EZH2 in CD4+ T cells from RA patients was attenuated, which suppressed FOXP3 transcription through downregulating RUNX1 and upregulating SMAD7 in CD4+ T cells, and ultimately suppressed Tregs differentiation. IL17 in RA synovial fluid might promote downregulation of EZH2 in CD4+ T cells. Defective EZH2 in CD4+ T cells might contribute to Treg deficiency in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Xiao
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yue-Ting Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xu Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xin Ji
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Li-Jun Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumchi, 830001, China
| | - Xiao-Han Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, AnYang District Hospital, AnYang, HeNan Province, 455000, China
| | - Jing-Bo Guo
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 256th Clinical Department of Bethune International Peace Hospital of PLA, Shijiazhuang, 050800, China
| | - Li-Dan Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yun-Yun Fei
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hua-Xia Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Feng-Chun Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Fu-Lin Tang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jian-Min Zhang
- Department of Immunology & National Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Immunology & National Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Hua Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Scherm MG, Daniel C. miRNA-Mediated Immune Regulation in Islet Autoimmunity and Type 1 Diabetes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:606322. [PMID: 33329406 PMCID: PMC7731293 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.606322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The important role of microRNAs as major modulators of various physiological processes, including immune regulation and homeostasis, has been increasingly recognized. Consequently, aberrant miRNA expression contributes to the defective regulation of T cell development, differentiation, and function. This can result in immune activation and impaired tolerance mechanisms, which exert a cardinal function for the onset of islet autoimmunity and the progression to T1D. The specific impact of miRNAs for immune regulation and how miRNAs and their downstream targets are involved in the pathogenesis of islet autoimmunity and T1D has been investigated recently. These studies revealed that increased expression of individual miRNAs is involved in several layers of tolerance impairments, such as inefficient Treg induction and Treg instability. The targeted modulation of miRNAs using specific inhibitors, resulting in improved immune homeostasis, as well as improved methods for the targeting of miRNAs, suggest that miRNAs, especially in T cells, are a promising target for the reestablishment of immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin G. Scherm
- Institute of Diabetes Research, Group Immune Tolerance in Type 1 Diabetes, Helmholtz Diabetes Center at Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Diabetesforschung (DZD), Munich-Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Carolin Daniel
- Institute of Diabetes Research, Group Immune Tolerance in Type 1 Diabetes, Helmholtz Diabetes Center at Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Diabetesforschung (DZD), Munich-Neuherberg, Germany
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
- *Correspondence: Carolin Daniel,
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Abstract
Recent advances in immunotherapy have revolutionized the treatment of certain cancers. Some patients show a durable response to these immunotherapies, while others show little benefit or develop resistance. Identification of biomarkers to predict responsiveness will be helpful for informing treatment strategies; and would furthermore lead to the identification of molecular pathways dysregulated in nonresponding patients that could be targeted for therapeutic development. Pathways of epigenetic modification, such as histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs), have been shown to be dysregulated in certain cancer and immune cells. Histones are abundant cellular proteins readily assayed with high-throughput technologies, making them attractive targets as biomarkers. We explore promising advancements for using histone PTMs as immunotherapy responsiveness biomarkers in both cancer and immune cells, and provide a methodological workflow for assaying histone PTMs in relevant samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin M Taylor
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Brian Koss
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Lauren E Davis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Alan J Tackett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
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41
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Yang YX, Shen HH, Cao F, Xie LY, Zhu GL, Sam NB, Wang DG, Pan HF. Therapeutic potential of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 in autoimmune diseases. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2019; 23:1015-1030. [PMID: 31747802 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2019.1696309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Autoimmune diseases (ADs) are idiopathic and heterogeneous disorders with contentious pathophysiology. Great strides have been made in epigenetics and its involvement in ADs. Zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has sparked extensive interest because of its pleiotropic roles in distinct pathologic contexts.Areas covered: This review summarizes the epigenetic functions and the biological significance of EZH2 in the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), type 1 diabetes (T1D), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and systemic sclerosis (SSc). A brief recapitulation of the therapeutic potential of EZH2 targeting is provided.Expert opinion: There are questions marks and controversies surrounding the feasibility and safety of EZH2 targeting; it is recommended in RA and SLE, but queried in T1D, IBD, MS, and SSc. Future work should focus on contrast studies, systematic analyses and preclinical studies with optimizing methodologies. Selective research studies conducted in a stage-dependent manner are necessary because of the relapsing-remitting clinical paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Xin Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hui-Hui Shen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fan Cao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Liang-Yu Xie
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Guang-Lin Zhu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Napoleon Bellua Sam
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - De-Guang Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hai-Feng Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Hefei, Anhui, China
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Li B, Chng WJ. EZH2 abnormalities in lymphoid malignancies: underlying mechanisms and therapeutic implications. J Hematol Oncol 2019; 12:118. [PMID: 31752930 PMCID: PMC6868783 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-019-0814-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2 is the catalytic subunit of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), which along with other PRC2 components mediates gene expression suppression via the methylation of Histone H3 at lysine 27. Recent studies have revealed a dichotomous role of EZH2 in physiology and in the pathogenesis of cancer. While it plays an essential role in the development of the lymphoid system, its deregulation, whether due to genetic or non-genetic causes, promotes B cell- and T cell-related lymphoma or leukemia. These findings triggered a boom in the development of therapeutic EZH2 inhibitors in recent years. Here, we discuss physiologic and pathogenic function of EZH2 in lymphoid context, various internal causes of EZH2 aberrance and how EZH2 modulates lymphomagenesis through epigenetic silencing, post-translational modifications (PTMs), orchestrating with surrounding tumor micro-environment and associating with RNA or viral partners. We also summarize different strategies to directly inhibit PRC2-EZH2 or to intervene EZH2 upstream signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boheng Li
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wee-Joo Chng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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43
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Dou L, Yan F, Pang J, Zheng D, Li D, Gao L, Wang L, Xu Y, Shi J, Wang Q, Zhou L, Shen N, Singh P, Wang L, Li Y, Gao Y, Liu T, Chen C, Al-Kali A, Litzow MR, Chi YI, Bode AM, Liu C, Huang H, Liu D, Marcucci G, Liu S, Yu L. Protein lysine 43 methylation by EZH1 promotes AML1-ETO transcriptional repression in leukemia. Nat Commun 2019; 10:5051. [PMID: 31699991 PMCID: PMC6838331 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-12960-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The oncogenic fusion protein AML1-ETO retains the ability of AML1 to interact with the enhancer core DNA sequences, but blocks AML1-dependent transcription. Previous studies have shown that post-translational modification of AML1-ETO may play a role in its regulation. Here we report that AML1-ETO-positive patients, with high histone lysine methyltransferase Enhancer of zeste homolog 1 (EZH1) expression, show a worse overall survival than those with lower EZH1 expression. EZH1 knockdown impairs survival and proliferation of AML1-ETO-expressing cells in vitro and in vivo. We find that EZH1 WD domain binds to the AML1-ETO NHR1 domain and methylates AML1-ETO at lysine 43 (Lys43). This requires the EZH1 SET domain, which augments AML1-ETO-dependent repression of tumor suppressor genes. Loss of Lys43 methylation by point mutation or domain deletion impairs AML1-ETO-repressive activity. These findings highlight the role of EZH1 in non-histone lysine methylation, indicating that cooperation between AML1-ETO and EZH1 and AML1-ETO site-specific lysine methylation promote AML1-ETO transcriptional repression in leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Dou
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Fei Yan
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, International Joint Research Laboratory of Nano-Micro Architecture Chemistry (NMAC), International Research Center for Chemistry-Medicine Joint Innovation, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, 130012, Changchun, China
| | - Jiuxia Pang
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Dehua Zheng
- Department of Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Dandan Li
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Li Gao
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Wang
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Yihan Xu
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Jinlong Shi
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Na Shen
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Puja Singh
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Yonghui Li
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Yvchi Gao
- Annoroad Gene Technical Laboratory, 6 Kechuang road, 100176, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Annoroad Gene Technical Laboratory, 6 Kechuang road, 100176, Beijing, China
| | - Chongjian Chen
- Annoroad Gene Technical Laboratory, 6 Kechuang road, 100176, Beijing, China
| | - Aref Al-Kali
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Mark R Litzow
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Young-In Chi
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Ann M Bode
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Chunhui Liu
- Haoshi Biotechnical Laboratory, 1 Pingshan First Road, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haojie Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Daihong Liu
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Guido Marcucci
- Department of Hematologic Malignancies Translational Science, City of Hope, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Shujun Liu
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA.
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, 1098 Xueyuan Ave, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
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44
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Targeting EZH2 Reprograms Intratumoral Regulatory T Cells to Enhance Cancer Immunity. Cell Rep 2019; 23:3262-3274. [PMID: 29898397 PMCID: PMC6094952 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.05.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are critical for maintaining immune homeostasis, but their presence in tumor tissues impairs anti-tumor immunity and portends poor prognoses in cancer patients. Here, we reveal a mechanism to selectively target and reprogram the function of tumor-infiltrating Tregs (TI-Tregs) by exploiting their dependency on the histone H3K27 methyltransferase enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) in tumors. Disruption of EZH2 activity in Tregs, either pharmacologically or genetically, drove the acquisition of pro-inflammatory functions in TI-Tregs, remodeling the tumor microenvironment and enhancing the recruitment and function of CD8+ and CD4+ effector T cells that eliminate tumors. Moreover, abolishing EZH2 function in Tregs was mechanistically distinct from, more potent than, and less toxic than a generalized Treg depletion approach. This study reveals a strategy to target Tregs in cancer that mitigates autoimmunity by reprogramming their function in tumors to enhance anti-cancer immunity.
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45
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Zhang H, Kuchroo V. Epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms for the regulation of IL-10. Semin Immunol 2019; 44:101324. [PMID: 31676122 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2019.101324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
IL-10 is a critical immunoregulatory cytokine expressed in virtually all immune cell types. Maintaining a delicate balance between effective immune response and tolerance requires meticulous and dynamic control of IL-10 expression both epigenetically and transcriptionally. In this Review, we describe the epigenetic mechanisms controlling IL-10 expression, including chromatin remodeling, 3D chromatin loops, histone modification and DNA methylation. We discuss the role of transcription factors in directing chromatin modifications, with a special highlight on the emerging concept of pioneer transcription factors in setting up the chromatin landscape in T helper cells for IL-10 induction. Besides summarizing the recent progress on transcriptional regulation in specialized IL-10 producers such as type 1 regulatory T cells, regulatory B cells and regulatory innate lymphoid cells, we also discuss common transcriptional mechanisms for IL-10 regulation that are shared with other IL-10 producing cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyuan Zhang
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Vijay Kuchroo
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States.
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46
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Byrum SD, Washam CL, Patterson JD, Vyas KK, Gilbert KM, Blossom SJ. Continuous Developmental and Early Life Trichloroethylene Exposure Promoted DNA Methylation Alterations in Polycomb Protein Binding Sites in Effector/Memory CD4 + T Cells. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2016. [PMID: 31555266 PMCID: PMC6724578 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is an industrial solvent and drinking water pollutant associated with CD4+ T cell-mediated autoimmunity. In our mouse model, discontinuation of TCE exposure during adulthood after developmental exposure did not prevent immunotoxicity. To determine whether persistent effects were linked to epigenetic changes we conducted whole genome reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) to evaluate methylation of CpG sites in autosomal chromosomes in activated effector/memory CD4+ T cells. Female MRL+/+ mice were exposed to vehicle control or TCE in the drinking water from gestation until ~37 weeks of age [postnatal day (PND) 259]. In a subset of mice, TCE exposure was discontinued at ~22 weeks of age (PND 154). At PND 259, RRBS assessment revealed more global methylation changes in the continuous exposure group vs. the discontinuous exposure group. A majority of the differentially methylated CpG regions (DMRs) across promoters, islands, and regulatory elements were hypermethylated (~90%). However, continuous developmental TCE exposure altered the methylation of 274 CpG sites in promoters and CpG islands. In contrast, only 4 CpG island regions were differentially methylated (hypermethylated) in the discontinuous group. Interestingly, 2 of these 4 sites were also hypermethylated in the continuous exposure group, and both of these island regions are associated with lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27) involved in polycomb complex-dependent transcriptional repression via H3K27 tri-methylation. CpG sites were overlapped with the Open Regulatory Annotation database. Unlike the discontinuous group, continuous TCE treatment resulted in 129 DMRs including 12 unique transcription factors and regulatory elements; 80% of which were enriched for one or more polycomb group (PcG) protein binding regions (i.e., SUZ12, EZH2, JARID2, and MTF2). Pathway analysis of the DMRs indicated that TCE primarily altered the methylation of genes associated with regulation of cellular metabolism and cell signaling. The results demonstrated that continuous developmental exposure to TCE differentially methylated binding sites of PcG proteins in effector/memory CD4+ cells. There were minimal yet potentially biologically significant effects that occurred when exposure was discontinued. These results point toward a novel mechanism by which chronic developmental TCE exposure may alter terminally differentiated CD4+ T cell function in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie D Byrum
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Charity L Washam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - John D Patterson
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Kanan K Vyas
- Department of Pediatrics, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Kathleen M Gilbert
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Sarah J Blossom
- Department of Pediatrics, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
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47
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Santos AS, Cunha Neto E, Fukui RT, Ferreira LRP, Silva MER. Increased Expression of Circulating microRNA 101-3p in Type 1 Diabetes Patients: New Insights Into miRNA-Regulated Pathophysiological Pathways for Type 1 Diabetes. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1637. [PMID: 31396209 PMCID: PMC6665278 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRs) are master regulators of post-transcriptional gene expression, and they are often dysregulated in individuals suffering from diabetes. We investigated the roles of miR-101-3p and miR-204-5p, both of which negatively regulate insulin secretion and cell survival and are highly expressed in pancreatic β cells, in the context of type 1 diabetes (T1D) pathogenesis. Using quantitative real time PCR, we evaluated serum levels of miR-101-3p and miR-204-5p in four groups, including recent-onset T1D patients (T1D group; n = 50), individuals with normal glucose levels expressing one islet autoantibody (Ab) (single Ab group; n = 26) or multiple autoantibodies (multiple Ab group; n = 12), and healthy controls (control group; n = 43). An in silico analysis was performed to identify potential target genes of these miRNAs and to delineate enriched pathways. The relative expression of serum miR-101-3p was approximately three times higher in the multiple Ab and T1D groups than that in the single Ab and control groups (p < 0.0001). When considering all groups together, miR-101-3p expression was positively correlated with the level of islet autoantibodies GADA (r = 0.267; p = 0.0027) and IA-2A (r = 0.291; p = 0.001), and the expression of the miRNA was not correlated with levels of ZnT8A (r = 0.125; p = 0.183). miR-101-3p expression did not correlate with HbA1c (r = 0.178; p = 0.052) or glucose levels (r = 0.177; p = 0.051). No significant differences were observed in miR-204-5p expression among the analyzed groups. Computational analysis of the miR-101-3p target gene pathways indicated a potential activation of the HGF/c-Met, Ephrin receptor, and STAT3 signaling pathways. Our study demonstrated that the circulating levels of miR-101-3p are higher in T1D patients and in individuals with normal glucose levels, testing positive for multiple autoantibodies, indicating that miR-101-3p precedes loss of glucose homeostasis. The pathogenic role of miR-101-3p in T1D may involve multiple molecular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aritania S. Santos
- Laboratório de Carboidratos e Radioimunoensios - LIM/18, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edecio Cunha Neto
- Heart Institute (InCor) and Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy - LIM60, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Institute for Investigation in Immunology, National Institutes of Science and Technology (iii-INCT), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosa T. Fukui
- Laboratório de Carboidratos e Radioimunoensios - LIM/18, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ludmila R. P. Ferreira
- RNA Systems Biology Laboratory (RSBL), Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maria Elizabeth R. Silva
- Laboratório de Carboidratos e Radioimunoensios - LIM/18, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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48
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Keenan CR, Iannarella N, Garnham AL, Brown AC, Kim RY, Horvat JC, Hansbro PM, Nutt SL, Allan RS. Polycomb repressive complex 2 is a critical mediator of allergic inflammation. JCI Insight 2019; 4:127745. [PMID: 31092733 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.127745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Strategies that intervene with the development of immune-mediated diseases are urgently needed, as current treatments mostly focus on alleviating symptoms rather than reversing the disease. Targeting enzymes involved in epigenetic modifications to chromatin represents an alternative strategy that has the potential to perturb the function of the lymphocytes that drive the immune response. Here, we report that 2 major epigenetic silencing pathways are increased after T cell activation. By specific inactivation of these molecules in the T cell compartment in vivo, we demonstrate that the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is essential for the generation of allergic responses. Furthermore, we show that small-molecule inhibition of the PRC2 methyltransferase, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (Ezh2), reduces allergic inflammation in mice. Therefore, by systematically surveying the pathways involved in epigenetic gene silencing we have identified Ezh2 as a target for the suppression of allergic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine R Keenan
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nadia Iannarella
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexandra L Garnham
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexandra C Brown
- Priority Research Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Richard Y Kim
- Priority Research Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jay C Horvat
- Priority Research Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Philip M Hansbro
- Priority Research Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia.,Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephen L Nutt
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rhys S Allan
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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49
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Regulation of T cell differentiation and function by epigenetic modification enzymes. Semin Immunopathol 2019; 41:315-326. [PMID: 30963214 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-019-00731-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral naive CD4+ and CD8+ cells are developed in the thymus and proliferate and differentiate into various specialized T cell subsets upon activation by peptide-major histocompatibility complexes in periphery to execute different functions during immune responses. Cytokines, transcription factors, and a large number of intracellular molecules have been shown to affect T cell development, activation, and function. In addition, epigenetic modifications, such as histone modification and DNA methylation, regulate T cell biology. The epigenetic modifications are regulated by a range of DNA methyltransferases, DNA demethylation enzymes, and histone modification enzymes. Dysregulations of epigenetic modifications are closely associated with autoimmune diseases and tumorigenesis. Here, we review the current literature about the functions of DNA and histone modification enzymes in T cell development, activation, differentiation, and function.
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50
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Bosselut R. Control of Intra-Thymic αβ T Cell Selection and Maturation by H3K27 Methylation and Demethylation. Front Immunol 2019; 10:688. [PMID: 31001282 PMCID: PMC6456692 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to transcription factor binding, the dynamics of DNA modifications (methylation) and chromatin structure are essential contributors to the control of transcription in eukaryotes. Research in the past few years has emphasized the importance of histone H3 methylation at lysine 27 for lineage specific gene repression, demonstrated that deposition of this mark at specific genes is subject to differentiation-induced changes during development, and identified enzymatic activities, methyl transferases and demethylases, that control these changes. The present review discusses the importance of these mechanisms during intrathymic αβ T cell selection and late differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rémy Bosselut
- Laboratory of Immune Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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